.22 BR Rem. Load Data & Reloading Guide

The .22 BR Remington was introduced in the 1970s as a wildcat cartridge derived from the .308 Winchester family, specifically the .308 BR case. This case was initially designed for benchrest shooting, where precision and accuracy are paramount. The .22 BR became a formal cartridge once Remington standardized it for commercial production. The cartridge quickly gained a solid reputation among competitive shooters for its precision and relatively low recoil, making it especially popular for benchrest and long-range varmint shooting.

Technically, the .22 BR Remington features a case length of 1.520 inches and a rim diameter similar to other BR cartridges, allowing it to fit actions readily available for .308 parent cartridges. The shoulder is relatively steep, which aids in efficient powder burning and contributes to the cartridge’s renowned accuracy. This design provides excellent case life, a crucial consideration for reloaders seeking longevity and consistency in their ammunition. The cartridge generally operates at a pressure of around 52,000 psi, making it a suitable choice for those seeking high velocity with manageable recoil.

Ballistically, the .22 BR excels within 300 to 400 yards, delivering flat trajectories that are highly desirable in competitive shooting. Reloaders typically use bullet weights ranging from 40 to 55 grains, optimizing for the specific application of precision target or varmint work. Lighter bullets are frequently used for faster velocities and flatter trajectories, while heavier bullets can improve energy retention over longer ranges. When hand-loaded, the .22 BR can achieve velocities from 3,000 to 3,500 feet per second, depending on bullet weight and powder choice.

For practical applications, the .22 BR Remington is highly valued in benchrest shooting competitions and for competitive target shooters who demand extreme precision. Its flat trajectory and minimal wind drift make it an excellent choice for this purpose. Additionally, varmint hunters benefit from its accuracy and the light recoil, which allows for fast follow-up shots. For reloaders, the .22 BR offers the advantage of long case life, stable brass performance, and adaptability to many finely-tuned loads, providing a tailored experience that enhances precision shooting.