22-303
Historical Notes:
The 303 British
was the standard military cartridge in Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, as
well as England. It was only natural for someone to neck this particular round
to a smaller caliber for use on varmints and small game. The origin of the
22-303 dates back to pre World War II times circa 1937-1939. Original 303
British military brass had very thick case walls. Later commercial brass has
somewhat thinner case walls, thus providing slightly more case capacity. This
round has a case capacity just less than the 22-250.
The Winchester High Wall and Farquaharson single shot action were preferred by
Canadian shooters in the 1930's and 1940's for chambering to the 22-303. Today's
Ruger No. 1 would be an excellent choice for this cartridge. There are some
minor dimensional differences between Australian and Canadian versions, but
performance of these two numbers is virtually identical. This cartridge would be
too noisy and powerful for use in populated areas, but the western provinces of
Canada or the Australian outback it would be an ideal choice.
General Comments:
This cartridge has found new advocates in the United Sates. However, for anyone
who has a large supply of 303
brass, this would make an ideal varmint cartridge. Velocities can exceed 3800
fps with 50 grain bullets, or 3500 fps with 55 grain bullets. With a rifling
twist of 1 in 10 or greater, heavier bullets of 63 to 70 grains would be ideal
fare. This is a wildcat of true purpose in parts of the globe where the old 303
still maintains popularity.
Source: Cartridges of the World
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