What Gun Shoots .220 Swift?
The .220 Swift is a legendary cartridge known for its impressive speed and flat trajectory, making it a favorite among long-range shooters and varmint hunters. However, due to its high pressure and specialized design, it's not fired from just any rifle. Let's explore the rifles specifically chambered for this powerful round.
Several manufacturers have produced rifles chambered in .220 Swift over the years, though many are now discontinued or hard to find. The most prominent are:
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Custom Rifles: Many gunsmiths and custom rifle builders will chamber rifles in .220 Swift to a customer's specifications. This allows for maximum customization in terms of stock, barrel length, and other features. This is a popular route for those seeking the ultimate .220 Swift rifle.
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Legacy Models: Older rifles from companies like Remington, Winchester, and Savage are known to have been chambered in .220 Swift. These are often sought-after collector's items, and finding one in good condition might require some searching. Parts availability for these older rifles can also be a factor to consider.
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Limited Production Runs: Some manufacturers may periodically produce limited runs of rifles chambered in .220 Swift, often in response to specific demand or as a special edition. These can be difficult to locate unless you're actively monitoring firearm retailers and forums.
It's crucial to emphasize that simply finding a rifle that looks like it could chamber a .220 Swift is not enough. Never attempt to fire a cartridge in a rifle not specifically chambered for it. Doing so can result in serious injury or death. Always verify the chambering markings on the barrel before loading and firing any firearm.
What calibers are similar to .220 Swift?
Many shooters looking for a similar performance profile might consider other calibers. These cartridges often offer a balance between velocity, accuracy, and availability:
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.223 Remington: A much more common and readily available cartridge, the .223 Remington is suitable for varmint hunting and is often used in AR-15 style rifles. While not as fast as the .220 Swift, it's a versatile and popular choice.
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.22-250 Remington: This cartridge provides a good balance between velocity and recoil, making it suitable for both varmint hunting and longer-range shooting. It's easier to find ammunition for than the .220 Swift.
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.204 Ruger: This smaller caliber offers exceptional velocity, but with less recoil than the .220 Swift. It's a relatively newer cartridge, but it’s gained popularity for its accuracy and performance.
Where can I find a .220 Swift rifle?
Finding a .220 Swift rifle requires diligence and patience. The best avenues are:
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Gun Shows: These events often feature a wider selection of older or less common firearms.
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Online Gun Forums: Engaging with online communities dedicated to firearms can help connect you with sellers who may have a .220 Swift rifle for sale.
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Specialized Gun Stores: Some gun stores specializing in high-end or custom rifles may carry, or be able to order, rifles chambered in .220 Swift.
Is the .220 Swift a good cartridge for hunting?
The .220 Swift’s high velocity and flat trajectory make it excellent for long-range varmint hunting. However, its higher recoil can be a factor for some shooters, and ammunition availability may be limited compared to more common cartridges.
Remember to always prioritize safety when handling firearms. Consult with experienced shooters and gunsmiths for advice on selecting and using a .220 Swift rifle, and always adhere to safe gun handling practices.
