.20-222 (P.O. Ackley Data)

.20-222: A Classic Ackley Wildcat for Small-Bore Enthusiasts

The .20-222 is a classic wildcat cartridge developed by renowned gunsmith P.O. Ackley, designed to combine the proven reliability of the .222 Remington case with the ballistic advantages of .20 caliber projectiles. By necking down the popular .222 Remington to accept .204-inch bullets, Ackley created a cartridge that offers impressive speed, excellent accuracy, and mild recoil—all in a versatile and easy-to-load package. This design continues to appeal to varmint hunters and precision shooters who value efficiency and proven performance.

The .20-222 benefits from the inherently accurate and consistent .222 Remington case, long celebrated for its smooth feeding, forgiving pressure curve, and excellent brass life. When paired with modern .20 caliber bullets, the cartridge achieves a notable increase in velocity over its parent while maintaining excellent control and low recoil. This makes it particularly well-suited for shooters looking for a small-bore option that performs well at medium to long ranges without punishing the rifle or the shooter.

In the field, the .20-222 offers a flat trajectory and reliable terminal performance on small game, making it an excellent choice for varmint control. Its moderate powder capacity delivers efficient burn characteristics, while the lighter .20 caliber projectiles minimize wind drift—an essential advantage when shooting at extended ranges. These qualities make it highly practical for both dedicated varmint hunters and those seeking an enjoyable, low-fatigue target cartridge.

Handloading the .20-222 is straightforward and accessible, particularly for those with experience in small-caliber reloading. Brass is readily available and easily formed by necking down standard .222 Remington cases, and the cartridge responds well to careful load development with a wide range of powders. With proper case preparation and quality components, handloaders can achieve excellent consistency and accuracy, making the .20-222 a rewarding cartridge to work with.

As with many Ackley designs, the .20-222 emphasizes practical innovation—delivering higher performance with minimal modification to a proven case design. It remains an enduring example of how wildcat cartridges can enhance the versatility of existing platforms, providing shooters with an affordable, efficient, and highly accurate small-bore option.

Source: Wolfe Publishing