222 ammo

.222 Remington ammo is a benchrest legend — the cartridge that dominated accuracy competition in the 1950s and 60s and set the standard for what a precise varmint round could be. Though largely overshadowed today by its descendant the .223 Remington, the “triple deuce” remains a superbly accurate, pleasant-shooting varmint cartridge with a devoted following among shooters who appreciate its heritage and precision. This page covers what it does and how it compares. It’s part of our full ammunition selection at Tatted Tacticals.

Tatted Tacticals stocks .222 Remington from Hornady, Federal, Sellier & Bellot, and others — varmint hollow points and polymer-tip loads in 40- to 55-grain bullets, by the box.

What the .222 Remington Does

The .222 Remington fires a .224-inch bullet, typically 40 to 55 grains, at roughly 3,000 to 3,200 fps — flat-shooting, accurate, and effective on varmints and small predators out to about 250 yards. Its claim to fame is precision: for years it owned benchrest competition, and that inherent accuracy still makes it a joy on prairie dogs and groundhogs. Recoil and report are mild, and it’s easy on barrels. Our .222 Remington ballistic guide covers the numbers.

.222 vs. .223 and Other Varmint Rounds

The .222 Remington is the parent of the .223/5.56 family — the military necked and lengthened it into the 5.56 NATO. Compared to the .223, the .222 is slightly milder and shorter-ranged but every bit as accurate, while the .223’s ubiquity gives it the availability edge. Shooters also cross-shop the .22-250 for more reach and the .22 Hornet for quieter close work. For accuracy and heritage, the .222 endures. Standards follow SAAMI specifications.

Buying .222 Remington

Choose accurate polymer-tip or hollow-point varmint loads. Federal law sets the minimum age for rifle ammunition at 18; some states and cities add restrictions, so per ATF guidance, confirm federal rules and review our ammunition shipping rules and state restrictions before ordering.

.222 Remington Ammo — Frequently Asked Questions

Is .222 Remington the same as .223?

No, though they’re closely related — the .223 Remington was developed from the .222. The .223 has a slightly longer case and more powder capacity, giving it a bit more velocity and range. They are not interchangeable; each requires its own chamber. The .222 is the older, slightly milder parent cartridge, while the .223 became the dominant standard.

What is .222 Remington good for?

The .222 Remington excels at varmint and small-predator hunting — prairie dogs, groundhogs, foxes, and similar game out to about 250 yards — and at target and benchrest accuracy work, where it built its reputation. Its mild recoil, low report, and inherent precision make it a pleasant, effective varmint cartridge for shooters who value accuracy and heritage.

Is .222 Remington still made?

Yes, though in limited variety compared to the .223. Hornady, Federal, Sellier & Bellot, and others still produce .222 Remington in varmint and target loads. It’s a niche cartridge now, so local availability is limited and online is usually the best source. Despite being overshadowed by the .223, the .222 remains in production for its loyal following.

Why was the .222 Remington so popular for benchrest?

The .222 earned its benchrest dominance through exceptional inherent accuracy — its case design and ballistics produced extremely consistent, tight groups that won countless competitions in its heyday. While newer cartridges have since taken over competition, the qualities that made the .222 a benchrest champion still make it a superbly accurate varmint round today.

Can you buy .222 Remington ammo online?

Yes. In most U.S. states you can buy .222 Remington online and have it shipped to your door — often the best source for this classic varmint caliber. The minimum age for rifle ammunition is 18, and some states and municipalities add restrictions or shipping limits, so confirm your state and local laws before ordering.