Quick Answer
A 6.5mm Creedmoor or a .223 Remington chambered in a high-quality bolt-action rifle is ideal for long-range varmint accuracy, with cartridges such as the 6.5 Creedmoor 120-grain Sierra MatchKing or the 223 Remington 55-grain Hornady V-Max providing excellent performance.
Choosing the Right Cartridge
When selecting a varmint cartridge for long-range accuracy, consider two key factors: flat shooting and high-BC (ballistic coefficient) bullets. The 6.5mm Creedmoor excels in both areas, with a BC of around 0.57 for a 120-grain Sierra MatchKing bullet, resulting in minimal wind deflection and drift. For example, a 6.5 Creedmoor 120-grain Sierra MatchKing fired at a 1,000 yard range will have a bullet drop of approximately 23.3 inches, whereas a 223 Remington 55-grain Hornady V-Max will exhibit a drop of around 53.6 inches at the same range.
Bullet Selection
For long-range varmint hunting, high-BC bullets with a flat base design are essential. The 6.5mm Creedmoor 120-grain Sierra MatchKing and the 223 Remington 55-grain Hornady V-Max are two popular choices, offering excellent accuracy and penetration. When selecting bullets, consider factors such as BC, weight, and jacket design. In general, heavier bullets (100-120 grains) tend to have higher BCs, resulting in improved long-range performance. However, lighter bullets (50-70 grains) often exhibit better expansion and penetration, making them suitable for smaller varmints.
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