221 fireball

[Julian Murray]

I typed 221 into Google, got this question and from it discovered this website!
I have just had a 221 built on a Sako action and suspect it will be one of less than half a dozen in South Africa where I ranch and run a hunting outfit.
I suspect that it will be perfect for our hyrax (dassie) hunting of which there is plenty. They look a bit like rock chucks and weigh 6 lbs.
It could work for our springbok (I have shot many with a 222), but unless conditions are ideal I prefer a bigger caliber. Springbok weigh up to about 8o lbs and I have an annual quota of 500 on my ranch.
Anyone want to come hunting?! Keep up the info on the 221 as there sure is nothing this side of the ocean.[URL=http://www.graaffreinetsafaris.co.za]

[Varmint Hunter]

Julian,

I have no experience shooting animals heavier than 15lbs with the .221FB and my preferred 40gr bullets. If I intended to shoot 80lb springbuck I would expect that a heavier bullet would perform better.

The 52gr A-Max might be my first choice. Heavier bullets from the tiny .221 have very low muzzle velocity. The Barnes X bullets would give reliable penetration but the accuracy is HARD to find. I tried several different combos in my custom rifle and eventually gave up.

VH