I have only recently started to use the .222 for Roe deer hunting and am experimenting with 55 gr Sierra Bullets as well as 60 gr Hornady Bullets. The powder used at present is Vihtavuori N140, which I have on hand for loading 7x64 and 9.3x62.
The current status of load deveIopment for my BRNO Fox (CZ527) in cal 222 Rem. is as follows:
.222 Rem � 60 gr Hornady FBSP Spitzer # 2270
Case: RWS Part Neck sized
O.A.L.: 54.55 MM
Primer: Fed 205
Powder: N140
Charges: 25.0 @ 25.5 grs , compressed loads
Vel.: Not measured as yet
Group: 17 mm center-to-center @ 100 m (both charges)
Comment: I note that my charges are heavier than the load given in an Italian reloading book (Andrea Bonzani, Ricarica 2) which gives 24.5 grs N140 for the 60 gr Hornady bullet. For reference a load from a Norwegian reloading manual (Vapenjournalen Ladebok) for the 63 grain Sierra Bullet is also 24.5 gr. N140.
I consider the loads near-Max/Max although I do not get any obvious sign of overpressure in my gun.
The 25.5 grain load accounted for one Roe Deer, instant kill.
.222 Rem � 55 gr Sierra FBSP # 1360
Case: PMP Part Neck sized
O.A.L.: 55.00 MM
Primer: Fed 205
Powder: N140
Charges: 25.0 @ 25.5 grs , compressed loads
Vel.: Not measured as yet
Group: 10-14 mm center-to-center @ 100 m
Comment: No practical field/hunting experience as yet! I plan to use this load in July-August. No obvious signs of overpressure were noted in my rifle. I have chosen Sierra #1360 (Spitzer) rather than #1350 (Semi-Point) in view of its being slightly �hard� at .222 velocities (See Sierra Manual)
I invite comments/suggestions,
Happy Hunting,
Guus
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Ray Atkinson