.22 BR Remington (34/35 GR Using Nosler Bullets)

.22 BR Remington (34/35 GR Using Nosler Bullets)

The .22 BR Remington is a fine example of a high-efficiency, low-recoil precision cartridge built for varmint shooting and benchrest applications. When paired with lightweight 34- and 35-grain bullets from Nosler—particularly their ballistic tip and varmint series offerings—the .22 BR delivers remarkable velocity with flat trajectories and superb accuracy.

This cartridge, based on a necked-down 6mm BR case, features a short, fat profile that promotes consistent powder burn and excellent pressure uniformity. Handloaders often note that this configuration allows for outstanding extreme spread and standard deviation results when tuned with care. With Nosler bullets in the 34-35 grain range, muzzle velocities in excess of 3,900 feet per second are achievable using powders like Benchmark, H335, and IMR 8208 XBR—especially in rifles with a 1:12 or 1:14 twist rate optimized for these lightweight projectiles.

Brass prep and load tuning remain critical. Many shooters anneal their brass regularly to preserve neck tension, sort by weight, and use match-grade primers to reduce inconsistencies. Seating depth adjustments often show immediate results in this cartridge, especially when approaching a lands-touch or jump-tuned setup. Typical group sizes reported with this bullet weight class hover below 0.5 MOA in quality custom rifles.

The .22 BR’s combination of speed and control also makes it ideal for small-game shooting where wind drift and drop must be minimized. With Nosler’s 34-35 grain options, expansion on light targets is violent and immediate—ideal for prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and other small varmints at extended ranges.

Though not as commonly seen as some mainstream varmint calibers, the .22 BR Remington—especially with this class of bullets—offers high-end performance for those who take the time to develop a proper load. Its blend of flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and incredible precision puts it among the best in its niche.

Source: Wolfe Publishing