The .220 Swift: The Original Speed King of Varmint Cartridges

When it comes to raw velocity and long-range varmint performance, few cartridges have the legacy — or the loyal following — of the .220 Swift. Introduced by Winchester in 1935, the .220 Swift was the first commercial cartridge to break the 4,000 feet-per-second barrier, earning a reputation as one of the flattest-shooting and fastest rounds in the game.

While newer cartridges have entered the market, the Swift still holds its own for serious varmint hunters and precision shooters looking for extreme speed and terminal performance on small to medium game.

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons and why it might deserve a place in your next custom rifle build.

Pros of the .220 Swift

1. Record-Breaking Velocity
The .220 Swift can drive a 40-grain bullet at speeds exceeding 4,200 fps. That blistering speed flattens trajectories and reduces holdover at extended distances — perfect for long-range varmint hunting.

2. Long-Range Precision
With proper handloads and a quality rifle, the Swift delivers excellent accuracy. Its high velocity and flat flight path make it ideal for coyotes, prairie dogs, and other small targets at 300+ yards.

3. Devastating Terminal Effect
Thanks to its speed and explosive bullet expansion, the .220 Swift delivers dramatic terminal performance. It’s particularly effective on small to medium predators, offering quick, ethical kills.

4. Reloading Potential
While factory ammunition options are limited, handloaders love the .220 Swift. There’s ample room to customize loads for speed, bullet weight, and barrel preference, giving shooters total control over performance.

Cons of the .220 Swift

1. Barrel Wear
One of the most cited drawbacks is accelerated barrel erosion. The high velocity and powder charge can wear out barrels faster than other calibers — especially in thin-profile hunting barrels.

2. Limited Factory Ammo
Compared to more modern varmint calibers like the .223 Remington or .204 Ruger, the .220 Swift has fewer options on store shelves. This makes it less accessible for shooters who don’t reload.

3. Loud Report and Muzzle Blast
That high velocity comes at a price: it is loud. The muzzle blast is significant, especially from shorter barrels or lightweight platforms.

4. Overkill for Some Applications
For close-range varmint shooting or smaller game like squirrels or rabbits, it might be excessive. Its explosive terminal effect can damage pelts and destroy more meat than necessary.

Final Thoughts

The .220 Swift is a legend — and for good reason. It was built for speed, and decades later, it’s still one of the fastest commercially available centerfire cartridges on the market. For varmint hunters who value extreme performance and don’t mind managing barrel life, the .220 Swift offers an exciting blend of power, precision, and pedigree.

Whether you’re looking to revisit this classic cartridge or want to build a custom rifle designed to push it to its full potential, the .220 Swift still delivers — with authority.

Ready to build a custom rifle around the .220 Swift?
Viking Armament offers precision-built rifles and custom varmint platforms tailored to high-velocity rounds like the Swift. Contact us to discuss your next build and get expert recommendations on components, barrels, and optics to make the most of this iconic caliber.