The .220 Swift Cartridge

by
posted on July 27, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
speer.jpg
undefinedThe .220 Swift cartridge presents a dilemma for shooters. Short, light bullets offer maximum velocity—possibly at the expense of barrel life—and flatter trajectory. Heavier, more aerodynamic projectiles at slower speeds are gentler on barrels and more resistant to wind deflection. Having used bullets from 40 to 70 grs. in a variety of rifles, I suggest the flat-base, 55-gr. Speer TNT hollow point for rodents and small predators at longer distances. Propelled to 3828 f.p.s., the superbly accurate and fragile projectile drops only 6.7" at 350 yds. and 19.8" at 450 yds. with a 250-yd. zero.

Latest

Shotshell Basics
Shotshell Basics

Shotshell Basics: Understanding Payloads, Pressures & Performance

A shotgun can be supremely versatile, depending on how it’s loaded. Understanding how shotshells work is difficult, but crucial.

Rock River Arms Celebrates 30 Years in Business

While the company's beginnings go back to 1994, the Rock River Arms story officially started in 1996, meaning that it is celebrating 30 years in business in 2026.

Review: Daniel Defense H9

Is the third time the charm? Daniel Defense has introduced a third version of the Hudson H9 pistol. Smaller, lighter and less radical, it could be “the one.”

Supreme Plus: Ranger Point Precision & Line49 Rifle Henry LASR Conversions

A new collaboration between modern lever-action specialists Ranger Point Precision and Line49 Rifle transforms Henry’s groundbreaking Lever Action Supreme Rifle.

The Armed Citizen® June 15, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

NRA Launches "ARC Across America" National Challenge

The National Rifle Association is inviting Americans, coast-to-coast, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States—and the freedom for which it stands—by exercising their rights by participating in the "ARC Across America" National Challenge.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.