20 vartarg vs 221 fireball

[mattri]

Looking at one of these for targets and light varmints out to 300-400 yards.

Like the bullet selection of the 221.

Does the speed gains of the 20 make that much of a difference at the close ranges?

I want to be able to see hits through the scope, can this be done with the 221?

What else to consider?

Rifle will be built off of a Savage Target Action if that matters.

 

[ab_bentley]

I hade one built on a LRPV action in 20VT. Let me tell you what, accurate didn't come close to explaining the groups it was capable of. The 20VT is more accurate than the 221FB even though they come from the same case. The 20cal bullets have a better BC and are better for varmints. If it were me in your shoes, I would go with the 20VT without hesitation. Adam

 

[bheadboy]

i have had three built in 221, now have one on 40x, hart bbl. the 40gr to 50gr blitzkings are unreal on pd to the distance you are looking for, accurcy is .200 5 shots not three.

friends i have shoot 221 40gr all the time till wind then go to 50's

much better choice in Wy where the wind never stops.

Bob

 

[Preacher]

The 221 Fireball will do anything you ask it to do, and yes you can see the hits...
I really like the 40 grain Ballistic Tips in the ones I shoot...

 

[RJinTexas]

Mattri, I built a 20VT using a Savage Target action RBLP, a Savage "F" class laminated stock and a 28", 10tw Douglas SSS chambered barrel. After developing loads that would shoot one ragged 5 shot groups with both 32 & 40 gr Vmax's I loaded up a couple of hundred of each and headed for the dog towns. The 40's performed the best in the wind and are the only bullet I now use. I'm still amazed how flat a 20 cal 40gr bullet will shot and I found it to be a absolute death ray out to about 350yds. Neither the 20VT or 221FB will knock you off the scope so you'll be able to view your hits and more importantly your misses. You can't go wrong with either one. I personally prefer the 20VT but then I never intend to shot a bullet any heavier then 40 grains through it.

RJ

 

[mattri]

Thanks for the great replies. Have decided on the 20, going to post a new thread re how to go about the build. Thanks again, Matt.

 

[MildBill]

Good choice!!!

 

[7mmtcu]

Before you decide look at a fast twist 221fb I have a custom contender 14in It shoots 80gr nosler match to 1 inch @ 200 mters. These bullets will explode on varmints. Also a true 1in7 is a tack driver with Sierra 90 gr match. If you are interested I will give you loads that work. I shoot sillouete and use the gun to shoot the smallest targets.