The .224 Weatherby Magnum is a rifle cartridge developed by Roy Weatherby in 1963. It is based on a .222 Remington Magnum case that's been necked down to accept a smaller .224-inch diameter bullet. The cartridge is designed for high velocity and flat trajectory, making it ideal for varmint hunting and small game. It is particularly noted for its ability to deliver high speeds, typically propelling a 50-grain bullet around 3,850 feet per second.
Given its design, the .224 Weatherby Magnum is suitable for long-range shooting, providing excellent accuracy and minimal bullet drop over extended distances. Its high velocity also ensures effective performance against small, fast-moving targets.
However, the .224 Weatherby Magnum is less common than some other .22 caliber centerfire cartridges, making ammunition harder to find and potentially more expensive. It is typically used by hunters and shooting enthusiasts who appreciate the unique combination of speed and precision it offers.