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.222 for Antelope

WindLaker
I'm headed out for Antelope next week. I'm considering a .222 Remington for my backup rifle. I've shot varmint with it, but never big game.

Is it enough to kill a 'lope? It's my backup only, probably will not even need it.

Thanks,

WindLaker
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Comments

10 comments

Date Votes
  • bull300wsm
    I think it is too light for the longer shots you may encounter. Antelope are usually hunted where long shots are the norm with varying degrees of wind. Also you need to check and see if the .222 is legal to use in your area....Bull
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  • tsr1965
    You can use anything that is legal...is the 222 legal? In most Western states, they put a minimum for big game at 24 caliber...like the 243 Winchester.

    If it is legal, I wouldn't reccommend it but only loaded with a Barnes TSX bullet or the 60 grain Nosler Partition. I would also limit my distance to 150-200 yards.

    Best

    EDIT 1

    RCrosby,

    If it is legal, I strongly disagree about the stunt, fair and inhumane part. It takes a well indoctrinated hunter to know his equipment, and his ability with it. When these principles are executed, all kinds of animals are taken with archery equipment. It does not take a 500 Whiz Bang to kill an 80-100 lb antelope. I might also say that in some states, certain rimfires are legal. Its all in knowing your equipment and your ability with it, and not going beyond it. Going outside of it, then becomes a stunt, and inhumane.

    Best
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  • RCrosby
    Would be a stunt, and not a fair and humane hunt, IMHO.
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  • Mobuck
    You would be better off taking an extra scope for your main rifle. Unless you run over your rifle it is very unlikely you'll need a total replacement. (Don't snicker- I know a guy who did actually back over his rifle, breaking the stock) Most antelope hunting areas would allow you to run over the hill and test fire your replacement scope if you have to use it.
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  • beantownshootah
    So little to add here.

    I'll make this really easy. The question is, should you bother to bring the .222 with you or not?

    Answer: if you have something better, bring THAT as a backup instead.

    If you don't, *and* a 222 is legal in whatever jurisdiction you are hunting in, *and* you can get your hands on some hunting-appropriate ammo in .222 *and* you don't mind hauling out one more gun with you, *and* you are comfortable with the gun, then bring it.

    At worst (and far most likely) you'll never even open the case, and you'll bring it back unused.

    At best, it might save your hunt.

    As mentioned, ultimately this comes down to your skill as a hunter and your proficiency with the gun. So long as you know what the gun can do, and know what you can do with it, and don't try to take a shot you shouldn't, you'll be fine.

    Sure, in practice that means that you'll be more limited with a .222 than you would be with more appropriate cartridges. You may have to pass on shots that you could make with a bigger gun. . .and that could be frustrating. Still, you'd be less limited with a .222 than you would be with no functional rifle whatever!

    It also bears repeating that the likelihood of your main rifle becoming unusable is pretty small if you pack it properly and aren't careless with it. A scope malfunction is more likely than a rifle malfunction. Also, you didn't describe the hunt scenario, but in the unlikely event of your main gun becoming unusable, you still may be able to borrow, rent, or buy another one.
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  • He Dog
    In New Mexico it would be legal. But not suitable.
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  • sandwarrior
    WindLaker,

    As noted above, many states where the .222 Rem is not legal. Some states out west it is.

    One of the main problems with .222's in general is that most all have the slow twists. Which, are not tight enough to stabilize better hunting bullets.
    That said, a .222 with a varmint bullet will kill a deer quickly and humanely if you place the shot into the ribcage into the heart/lung area. It won't do nearly as well if you try to put one through the shoulder. Just don't try any miracle shots.

    My take on this is, for sure take the rifle and if you get to go gopher or prairie dog hunting then you have a great rifle to do that. You probably won't need it as a back-up. But for a fun gun it's well worth the while to bring it along.
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  • WindLaker
    Thanks guys.

    More cons than pros...no .222 on the trip.

    WindLaker
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  • sandwarrior
    Not even to go shoot where you have all the room in the world to do so?? Trust me...you'll wish you had.
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  • glabray
    When they were legal, we used to use a .222 for 'lopes out to 250 yards or so. Of course we only took head shots.
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