.219 Wasp (Hodgdon Data)

.219 Wasp (Hodgdon Data)

The .219 Donaldson Wasp is a classic wildcat cartridge developed by Harvey Donaldson in the 1930s, derived from the .219 Zipper case with improvements to shoulder angle and case taper to increase performance. Hodgdon’s published data for the Wasp offers reloading load-recipes that give modern shooters insight into what this historical round can still deliver in terms of velocity, consistency, and practical field use.

According to Hodgdon load tables, the .219 Wasp performs well with bullet weights in the 40- to 55-grain range. For example, a 40-grain Sierra SP over Hodgdon H4895 is shown at approximately 3,312 fps, and a 55-grain bullet over the same powder reaches about 3,501 fps. These loads require properly trimmed cases, consistent brass preparation, and reliable primers. Hodgdon also provides starting loads and cautions, emphasizing that handloaders should always work up gradually and look for signs of pressure with each step.

Key attributes of Hodgdon’s data include clean burning powders, stable ignition, and moderate recoil despite the cartridge’s high velocity. The .219 Wasp’s design allows for relatively efficient propellant burn in suitable barrels, which means less fouling and less heat accumulation compared to overbore rounds when loads are tuned carefully.

Though modern cartridges have largely overtaken it in popularity, the Wasp retains favor among benchrest shooters and wildcat enthusiasts who value accuracy, load flexibility, and the heritage of older cartridge designs. Hodgdon’s data keeps the Wasp accessible and relevant—especially to shooters who appreciate performance in historic rifle platforms or custom builds.

Source: Wolfe Publishing