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. But what guns are actually chambered for this high-velocity round? Let's explore the options.
While several manufacturers produced rifles chambered in .220 Swift throughout its history, the availability of new, commercially-produced firearms in this caliber has diminished over time. Finding a modern firearm in this caliber requires some searching and potentially exploring the used gun market.
What are some rifles that historically chambered .220 Swift?
Historically, many well-respected firearms manufacturers offered rifles chambered in .220 Swift. Some notable examples include:
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Remington: Remington produced several models chambered in .220 Swift, including some of their popular bolt-action hunting rifles. These rifles were known for their accuracy and reliability.
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Winchester: Winchester also offered rifles in .220 Swift, known for their quality and performance. These rifles were often favored for varmint hunting.
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Savage: Savage Arms also produced rifles chambered in .220 Swift. Their rifles are often praised for their affordability and accuracy.
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Custom Gunsmiths: Given the diminishing availability of factory-produced .220 Swift rifles, many custom gunsmiths will build rifles to this specification. This is an option for those seeking a highly customized rifle built to their exact requirements.
Where can I find a .220 Swift rifle today?
Finding a .220 Swift rifle today may require a bit more effort. Here are some avenues to explore:
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Used Gun Market: Online marketplaces, gun shows, and local gun stores are your best bet for finding a used .220 Swift rifle. Be sure to carefully inspect any used firearm before purchasing it.
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Custom Gunsmiths: As mentioned previously, contacting a custom gunsmith is another option. They can build a rifle to your specifications, ensuring you get exactly what you need. Be prepared for a potentially longer lead time and higher cost compared to buying a used rifle.
Are there any modern rifles chambered in .220 Swift?
Currently, there are not many, if any, major firearms manufacturers actively producing new rifles chambered in .220 Swift. The popularity of the cartridge has waned somewhat in recent years, with other cartridges offering similar performance with greater availability of ammunition.
Is the .220 Swift still a good choice for hunting?
The .220 Swift still offers impressive ballistic performance, including a very flat trajectory. However, the reduced availability of ammunition and firearms should be considered. For hunters, the availability of other calibers that offer similar performance and wider ammunition availability may make them a more practical choice.
Why is the .220 Swift less common now?
The decline in popularity of the .220 Swift can be attributed to several factors:
- Ammunition Availability: Ammunition for the .220 Swift can be more challenging to find and often more expensive than other calibers.
- Barrel Wear: The high velocity of the .220 Swift can lead to faster barrel wear compared to other cartridges.
- Recoil: The high velocity also results in noticeable recoil, which can be a concern for some shooters.
- Competition from other cartridges: Other cartridges have emerged offering comparable performance and greater ease of access.
Finding a .220 Swift rifle may require some dedication and research, but for those who appreciate its history and performance characteristics, the search can be worthwhile. Remember to always prioritize safety and handle firearms responsibly.
