The .220 Swift is a high-velocity, centerfire rifle cartridge primarily designed for varmint hunting and long-range target shooting. Its defining characteristic is its exceptionally flat trajectory and high muzzle velocity compared to other cartridges in its class. Ammunition featuring this cartridge is often selected when minimal bullet drop and extended effective range are desired.
This cartridge gained prominence due to its ability to deliver accurate shots over significant distances, reducing the need for extreme holdover adjustments. Historically, it held the record for the highest muzzle velocity among commercially available cartridges for many years. This performance characteristic translates to increased hit probability on small, fast-moving targets at ranges that would be challenging for slower cartridges.
