.218 Bee, 19-inch Custom Martini (Accurate Data)

.218 Bee, 19-inch Custom Martini (Accurate Data)

The Accurate Data for the .218 Bee, tested with a 19-inch Custom Martini, provides a detailed look at how the cartridge behaves in shorter-barrel field rifles. Martini actions are known for their crisp break and solid alignment, traits that help in achieving tighter groups, especially with a round like the Bee which typically favors precision over raw velocity. The 19-inch barrel makes for a quieter, lighter setup, which some shooters prefer for varmint hunting in rugged terrain or when carrying long distances.

According to Handloader Issue #149 – January, 1991, the data shows that with proper handloading, the .218 Bee in this rifle configuration still delivers respectable velocity and accuracy. Bullet weights in the tested loads range between 35 and 52 grains, with lighter 35-grain hollow-point or polymer-tip styles giving faster muzzle speeds, and the heavier 50- or 52-grain bullets showing better stability downrange, especially past 200 yards. The shorter barrel means velocity gains are more modest, but the trade-off in maneuverability and rifle balance is often considered worth it by hunters.

Powders used in the tests include Accurate 2015BR, H4227, and IMR-4227. These powders, with moderate burn rates, help to optimize case fill in the Bee’s smaller case capacity, giving clean burns and consistent ignition from the Martini action. Load tables show that for 35-grain bullets, velocities in the 19-inch barrel are in the 2,900-3,100 fps range depending on load, while the heavier bullets drop into the 2,600-2,800 fps range. These numbers are strong for the barrel length, especially when paired with a rifle built for stability and precision rather than raw speed.

Accuracy results in the test were generally very good. Tight groups under 1.2 inches at 100 yards are reported with the lighter bullets, especially when using match-grade components and careful case preparation. The data emphasizes seating depth, consistent primer selection, and ensuring the rifle’s Martini single-shot extractor and chamber are clean and free of burrs. Even though the shorter barrel reduces ultimate velocity, it helps reduce overall rifle weight and improves shootability in the field.

For shooters using a 19-inch Custom Martini, this Accurate Data set offers a solid blueprint for load development — balancing velocity, accuracy, recoil, and weight. It shows that the .218 Bee is more versatile than many assume, working well even in shorter barrels if load components and rifle setup are optimized.

Source: Handloader Issue #149 – January, 1991