The .220 Howell can (with IMR 7828 or Ramshot Magnum) propel 75-grain and 80-grain bullets at about 3,500 ft/sec without taking peak pressures above about 50,000 lb/sq in. The .223s and the Swifts can match or beat this velocity only at the risk of higher peak pressures (60,000 to 65,000 lb/sq in.) and with much lighter bullets that don't have anything like the 0.44 and 0.42 ballistic coefficients of these heavier, more drag-resistant bullets.
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<br>The significant differences in performance are retained energy, reduced drop, and reduced wind deflection at long range. IOW, flatter trajectory and greater down-range impact than any other .224 cartridge.
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<br>IIFID, send that M700 to Greg Richards in Hobbs, NM, and have him put one of his bench-rest .224 barrels on it. He has the best reamer for this cartridge and makes some of the best barrels at some of the best prices. If you want to use the .220 Howell on deer, he also makes a hunting-tough 80-grain bullet for it. (505) 392-1515
