1885 22lr convert to 22 Magnum?

[johnds]

Hi Folks,

I hate to admit that I am using a Winchester made in Japan model 1885 in 22lr to shoot gray diggers with. This is a beautiful rifle but I would rather use it rather than let it rot in the safe.

My question is...."can this rifle be easily re-chambered to 22 magnum so I can have a little more range? If so can you make a suggestion as to who is the one to make this change?

Thanks,

Johnds

 

[NCsmitty]

This is not a recommended conversion due to the groove dimension differences. Depending on who you talk to, the 22lr uses a .219 dia groove barrel compared to the 22 Mag .224 dia requirements. You would be stuffing a larger dimensioned bullet that's already higher pressure, down a .003-.005 smaller bore.
What may happen is open to speculation, but chances are it will end up being nothing good.



NCsmitty

 

[johnds]

Thanks for the info. Sounds to me like once a 22lr always a 22lr. I might try to scare up some high velocity 22lr ammo.

John

 

[wcoats]

well actually to extend your range with 22lr you might need to go to subsonic ammo, because high velocity 22lr ammo with go subsonic before 100 yards and become less accurate from going trans sonic. but with slower velocity ammo you just have to account for more drop.

 

[johnds]

I would never have guessed that. I have a box of that around someplace. I will give it a try.

John