Berger 22408 Target .224 52gr Flat Base Bullets – 100ct

Description

Berger built its reputation on the firing line, and the 22408 Target Flat Base is a clear example of why. This is a 52-grain .224 diameter projectile with a flat base and a tangent ogive, a combination that benchrest and target crowd folks lean on when they want the smallest possible groups at close to mid range. It runs a J4 Precision jacket, which is held to seriously tight tolerances for runout and wall concentricity, and that consistency is where a lot of the accuracy comes from. Keep in mind these are component bullets for handloading, not loaded ammo.

What Sets the Berger 22408 Flat Base Apart

The flat base design is the whole story here. Boat tails get the headlines for long range, but a flat base projectile shrugs off the extra steps and tends to settle into a bore quickly, which pays off in tight, repeatable groups out to around 300 yards. The tangent ogive is forgiving too, so it isn't as picky about seating depth as a VLD-style nose, making load development a lot less frustrating when you're working up a recipe.

Dialing In the Berger Target .224 52gr

Spec-wise, this bullet carries a sectional density of 0.148 and a G1 ballistic coefficient in the 0.235 to 0.242 range, with an overall length right around 0.717 inches. Berger lists a 1:14 minimum twist rate, so most standard .223 and .22 centerfire barrels will stabilize it without a problem. There's no cannelure, which is typical for a precision target bullet you plan to seat by feel rather than crimp.

Who Reaches for the Berger 52 Grain Flat Base

This one lands squarely with the accuracy crowd: benchrest competitors, varmint rigs, and anyone building match loads for a .22 centerfire who wants a proven, easy-to-tune component. It doubles nicely on varmints too, since that same tight construction and short-range precision translates well to small game work. Pair it with quality brass and a consistent powder charge and you've got the makings of a load your rifle will like.