This specific cartridge designates a .223 Remington cartridge loaded for use in the Winchester Super Short Magnum (WSSM) family of rifles. The numerical value, measured in grains, refers to the projectile weight. This relatively light projectile contributes to higher velocities, resulting in a flatter trajectory. This flatter trajectory translates to less bullet drop over longer distances, potentially increasing accuracy and effective range, especially when compared to heavier projectiles in the same caliber. The WSSM cartridge family, though less common than other .223 Remington variants, was designed for increased performance compared to standard .223 Remington loadings.
The advantages of this lightweight projectile combined with the higher-pressure WSSM case contribute to its appeal for varmint hunting and certain competitive shooting disciplines. The higher velocity delivers significant energy on target, while the flatter trajectory allows for more precise shot placement at extended ranges. However, the WSSM cartridge family has seen limited adoption due to factors such as shorter barrel life and increased recoil compared to standard .223 Remington loads. The relatively niche market has also contributed to generally higher ammunition prices and reduced availability.
Further discussion will elaborate on ballistic performance, suitable applications for this cartridge, and comparisons with other popular varmint hunting rounds. We will also analyze the market factors affecting availability and pricing, and explore the history and development of the WSSM cartridge family.
1. Caliber
While the term “.223 Remington” often gets used interchangeably with “5.56x45mm NATO,” subtle differences exist. The .223 WSSM, despite using .223 caliber projectiles, is a distinct cartridge. It employs a unique case design shorter and fatter than the .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO leading to higher pressures and velocities. Therefore, a .223 WSSM rifle cannot safely fire standard .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO ammunition, though the reverse is generally considered safe, albeit with reduced performance. This distinction stems from the WSSM’s higher operating pressures and unique case dimensions. The .223 designation in “223 WSSM ammo 64 grain” signifies the bullet diameter, indicating compatibility with standard .223 caliber projectiles, not interchangeability with standard .223 Remington ammunition.
Consider the practical implications. A shooter using a .223 WSSM rifle must utilize ammunition specifically designed for that chambering. Attempting to fire standard .223 Remington rounds could result in malfunctions or potentially dangerous situations due to pressure discrepancies. Conversely, firing .223 WSSM ammunition in a standard .223 Remington rifle, while generally possible, negates the performance advantages of the WSSM design, effectively reducing it to a standard .223 Remington load.
Understanding the relationship between the .223 caliber designation and the specific cartridge designin this instance, the WSSMis crucial for safe and effective firearm operation. While sharing a common projectile diameter, the cartridges themselves are not interchangeable. This highlights the critical need for careful ammunition selection matched to the specific firearm chambering.
2. Cartridge
The Winchester Super Short Magnum (WSSM) cartridge represents a key element in understanding the performance characteristics of the specific ammunition type, 223 WSSM. This cartridge design, distinct from standard .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO rounds, plays a crucial role in dictating the overall capabilities and limitations of this specific ammunition.
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Case Design and Pressure:
The WSSM cartridge features a shorter, fatter case compared to standard .223 Remington. This design allows for a larger powder capacity, generating higher pressures and thus, higher velocities. This higher pressure is fundamental to the increased performance offered by the 223 WSSM, but also contributes to increased recoil and potentially accelerated barrel wear. For example, while a standard .223 Remington might operate at around 55,000 psi, the WSSM can reach pressures exceeding 60,000 psi. This higher pressure directly influences the ballistic performance of the 64-grain projectile.
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Ballistic Performance:
The WSSM case design, combined with a lightweight 64-grain projectile, results in a significantly flatter trajectory and higher energy transfer compared to standard .223 Remington loadings. This translates to enhanced long-range accuracy and effectiveness on varmints. The increased velocity achieved through the WSSM design allows the 64-grain projectile to maintain energy over longer distances.
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Compatibility and Safety:
The unique dimensions of the WSSM case prevent its use in standard .223 Remington chambers. Conversely, while standard .223 Remington cartridges may chamber in a WSSM rifle, firing them is not recommended due to potential pressure and performance inconsistencies. This critical distinction underscores the importance of selecting ammunition specifically designed for the WSSM chambering to ensure safe and optimal firearm function.
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Market Availability and Cost:
Due to its relatively niche status, the WSSM cartridge, including the 223 WSSM, often faces limited availability and higher costs compared to more common .223 Remington loads. This limited market penetration can present challenges for shooters seeking to procure 223 WSSM ammunition.
The WSSM cartridge’s characteristics directly influence the overall performance profile of the 223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition. Its unique design features contribute to enhanced ballistics but also introduce considerations regarding compatibility, availability, and cost. Understanding these facets provides a comprehensive perspective on this specific ammunition type and its suitability for various shooting applications.
3. Projectile Weight
Projectile weight, specifically 64 grains in the context of .223 WSSM ammunition, significantly influences the cartridge’s overall performance. This weight, measured in grains (a unit of mass traditionally used for gunpowder and projectiles), represents a balance between velocity and energy retention, key factors in determining the effectiveness of the round, particularly for varmint hunting. Lighter projectiles generally achieve higher velocities, leading to flatter trajectories and reduced wind drift. Heavier projectiles, conversely, retain energy better over longer distances. The 64-grain projectile in .223 WSSM represents a compromise optimized for small to medium-sized game at moderate ranges. For instance, while a 55-grain .223 WSSM projectile might offer even higher velocities, its lighter mass results in reduced energy downrange, limiting its effectiveness on tougher varmints or at longer distances. Conversely, a heavier projectile, such as a 77-grain .223, while offering superior energy retention, would experience a significant velocity reduction in the WSSM case, compromising its trajectory and making it less suitable for the intended purpose.
The practical significance of this 64-grain projectile weight becomes evident when considering its intended application: varmint hunting. The flatter trajectory afforded by the higher velocity facilitates accurate shot placement on small, fast-moving targets at typical engagement distances. Sufficient energy on target ensures clean, ethical kills. A heavier bullet might over-penetrate, while a lighter bullet might lack the energy needed for quick dispatch. The 64-grain projectile in .223 WSSM thus occupies a specific niche, offering a balanced approach for effective varmint control.
The choice of a 64-grain projectile within the .223 WSSM cartridge highlights the importance of balancing velocity and energy for specific applications. While not universally suitable for all .223 Remington purposes, this combination provides a practical advantage in the realm of varmint hunting. The flatter trajectory, coupled with adequate terminal ballistics, contributes to ethical and efficient hunting practices. The limitations imposed by the reduced energy retention at longer ranges underscore the importance of understanding the trade-offs inherent in projectile weight selection.
4. Intended Use
The .223 WSSM, loaded with a 64-grain projectile, finds a practical application in varmint hunting. This specific combination of cartridge and bullet weight offers distinct advantages when targeting small to medium-sized game, though its limitations compared to other varmint cartridges also warrant consideration. The high velocity and flat trajectory inherent in this loading make it well-suited for engaging these often fast-moving, relatively small targets at moderate ranges.
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Effective Range and Trajectory:
The .223 WSSM’s higher velocity, particularly with lighter projectiles like the 64-grain variant, results in a flatter trajectory compared to standard .223 Remington loads. This flatter trajectory translates to increased effective range and reduced holdover requirements when engaging varmints at distances beyond 100 yards. For instance, a prairie dog hunter might find the flatter trajectory crucial for accurate shots at 200-300 yards, distances where a standard .223 Remington might require significant holdover. However, wind drift can still be a factor with lighter projectiles.
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Terminal Ballistics and Energy Transfer:
The 64-grain projectile, while light for deer or larger game, delivers sufficient energy for ethical varmint harvesting. The high velocity ensures rapid energy transfer upon impact, leading to quick, humane kills on animals like coyotes, prairie dogs, and groundhogs. While adequate for these targets, the 64-grain projectile might not offer the same hydrostatic shock or penetration as heavier bullets used for larger game. This makes shot placement even more critical.
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Recoil and Barrel Life:
The higher pressures generated by the WSSM cartridge contribute to increased recoil compared to standard .223 Remington loads. This can be a consideration for shooters sensitive to recoil, particularly during extended shooting sessions. The increased pressure also contributes to accelerated barrel wear, potentially shortening the lifespan of the rifle compared to one firing standard .223 Remington ammunition. This necessitates more frequent barrel inspections and replacements for shooters regularly utilizing the .223 WSSM.
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Ammunition Cost and Availability:
The relatively niche status of the .223 WSSM often translates to higher ammunition costs and reduced availability compared to more common .223 Remington loads. This can present a barrier for high-volume shooters or those seeking readily accessible and budget-friendly ammunition. Shooters considering the .223 WSSM for varmint hunting must factor in the potential expense and logistical challenges associated with ammunition procurement.
The .223 WSSM with a 64-grain projectile occupies a specific niche within varmint hunting. While offering distinct advantages in terms of trajectory and effective range, considerations regarding recoil, barrel life, ammunition cost, and availability necessitate careful evaluation. Hunters must weigh these factors against the specific requirements of their hunting environment and shooting practices to determine the suitability of the .223 WSSM for their needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition, providing concise and informative responses to clarify potential uncertainties.
Question 1: Is .223 WSSM ammunition interchangeable with standard .223 Remington ammunition?
No. .223 WSSM cartridges utilize a different case design than standard .223 Remington, resulting in significantly higher pressures. Firing .223 WSSM ammunition in a standard .223 Remington chamber can cause catastrophic firearm failure. While standard .223 Remington may chamber in a .223 WSSM rifle, firing them is not recommended due to potential performance and safety issues.
Question 2: What are the primary advantages of using .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition?
The primary advantages include a flatter trajectory and higher velocity compared to standard .223 Remington loads with similar projectile weights. This translates to increased effective range and reduced wind drift, particularly beneficial for varmint hunting.
Question 3: What are the disadvantages of .223 WSSM ammunition?
Disadvantages include increased recoil, potentially accelerated barrel wear, higher ammunition cost, and limited availability compared to standard .223 Remington ammunition.
Question 4: What is the effective range of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition for varmint hunting?
The effective range varies depending on environmental factors and the specific varmint targeted. However, it generally extends beyond the effective range of standard .223 Remington loads with comparable bullet weights, often reaching out to 300 yards or more for smaller varmints.
Question 5: Can .223 WSSM ammunition be used for larger game hunting?
While the .223 WSSM offers increased performance compared to standard .223 Remington, it is generally not recommended for larger game such as deer. Its primary intended use remains varmint hunting and some competitive shooting disciplines.
Question 6: What rifles are chambered for .223 WSSM?
Several rifle manufacturers, including Browning and Winchester, have produced rifles chambered in .223 WSSM. However, due to the cartridge’s limited popularity, finding new or used rifles chambered for this cartridge might require dedicated searching.
Careful consideration of these points provides a more complete understanding of the characteristics and appropriate applications of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition.
Further exploration of the .223 WSSM and comparisons with other varmint cartridges will follow.
Tips for Utilizing .223 WSSM 64-Grain Ammunition
Effective use of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition requires attention to several key factors. These considerations maximize performance and ensure safe operation.
Tip 1: Rifle Selection and Compatibility: Verify the rifle’s chambering is specifically .223 WSSM. Do not use this ammunition in rifles chambered for .223 Remington or 5.56x45mm NATO, even if the cartridges appear to fit. Pressure differences can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
Tip 2: Ammunition Storage: Store ammunition in a cool, dry environment away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Proper storage preserves propellant integrity and ensures reliable performance.
Tip 3: Barrel Maintenance: The higher pressures of the .223 WSSM can accelerate barrel wear. Regular cleaning and inspection are crucial for maintaining accuracy and extending barrel life. Consult the rifle manufacturer’s recommendations for cleaning frequency and procedures.
Tip 4: Scope Selection and Zeroing: Select a scope appropriate for the intended engagement ranges. Proper scope mounting and zeroing are critical for achieving consistent accuracy. Consider a scope with ballistic turrets or reticles designed for the .223 WSSM trajectory.
Tip 5: Wind Drift Considerations: While the 64-grain projectile offers a flatter trajectory, wind drift can still impact accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Understanding wind effects and compensating accordingly are essential for precise shot placement.
Tip 6: Ethical Hunting Practices: Ensure shot placement and target selection align with ethical hunting practices. Use this ammunition only for its intended purposevarmint control. Avoid taking shots beyond the cartridge’s effective range, where energy transfer might be insufficient for humane kills.
Tip 7: Ammunition Source Verification: Purchase ammunition only from reputable manufacturers and retailers. This guarantees quality control and reduces the risk of encountering substandard or improperly loaded cartridges.
Adherence to these guidelines enhances safety and optimizes the performance benefits of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition, contributing to successful and responsible shooting experiences.
The following conclusion summarizes the key attributes and considerations discussed throughout this exploration of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition.
Concluding Remarks on .223 WSSM 64-Grain Ammunition
This examination of .223 WSSM 64-grain ammunition has explored its defining characteristics, performance advantages, inherent limitations, and suitable applications. The cartridge’s unique design, utilizing the Winchester Super Short Magnum case, delivers increased velocity and a flatter trajectory compared to standard .223 Remington loads, making it well-suited for varmint hunting at moderate ranges. The 64-grain projectile represents a balance between velocity and energy retention, offering effective terminal ballistics on small to medium-sized game. However, considerations such as increased recoil, potential for accelerated barrel wear, higher ammunition cost, and limited availability must factor into the decision-making process for potential users. The importance of proper rifle compatibility and adherence to safe firearm handling practices cannot be overstated.
Ultimately, the .223 WSSM 64-grain cartridge occupies a specialized niche within the broader landscape of .223 Remington ammunition. Its enhanced performance characteristics cater to specific hunting and shooting disciplines, offering a distinct advantage in certain scenarios. A thorough understanding of its capabilities and limitations, combined with careful consideration of individual needs and priorities, will guide informed decisions regarding its suitability for particular applications. Further research and practical experience will contribute to a comprehensive understanding of this specialized ammunition and its place within the shooting community.