Kid target rifle - 223 vs 223ai

[dcloco]

I don't think so. The article shows about an 8% average increase in capacity with the AI over four types of brass. The largest increase was 10%. If we go with the 10% increase that should be about an additional 70 fps.

DEFINITELY more than 70 fps!!!

If you don't own a 223 AI and a chronograph........

 

[Goosey]

DEFINITELY more than 70 fps!!!

If you don't own a 223 AI and a chronograph........

I'm sure one can see an extra 200 fps after going to the AI... but to prove it was achieved at the same pressures (which I doubt) you would need a equipment like a PressureTrace, Oehler M43, or pressure barrels with piezoelectric transducers.

 

[Legionnaire]

If I need more velocity than a .223, I go to a 22-250.

... or a .22-250 Ackley ...

Honestly, for a kid's target rifle, I'd stick with the .223. I like AI cartridges, but I'd not make her dependent on what I could load for her. You can always make that investment later depending on her (and your) interest.

 

[gotboostvr]

I like AI cartridges, but I'd not make her dependent on what I could load for her.

But you can shoot factory 223rem through it with good accuracy still. So you're not bound to a niche handload only cartridge.

 

[Legionnaire]

@gotboostvr, you are correct, but practically speaking it's a one way transition from standard to Ackley Improved brass. It's probably a moot point; if the plan is to reload anyway, it won't matter either way.