The Genesis of the .22 Rem Jet
The Need for Speed
The crack of the shot, the whisper of the bullet, and the unmistakable scent of gunpowder – firearms have always held a certain fascination. Among the vast array of rifles ever crafted, some stand out not only for their function but also for their unique place in history. The .22 Rem Jet rifle, a cartridge-rifle combination produced in the mid-twentieth century, exemplifies this perfectly. Though its lifespan was relatively short, its legacy as a high-velocity option in the .22 caliber world persists. This article explores the history, design, performance, and enduring appeal of the .22 Rem Jet rifle.
The .22 Rem Jet rifle, a cartridge designed in collaboration between Remington and Smith & Wesson, was born from the growing demand for a fast, flat-shooting small-caliber option. Shooters and hunters were constantly seeking ways to extend their effective ranges and improve terminal ballistics. The standard .22 Long Rifle, while incredibly popular, had limitations. Its low velocity meant a curved trajectory at longer distances, making accurate shots at varmints beyond a hundred yards challenging.
Development
Remington, a major name in firearms and ammunition production, recognized this opportunity. The company teamed up with Smith & Wesson, known for their revolvers, to explore the possibilities of creating something new and exciting. The result was a bottlenecked cartridge with a significant powder capacity relative to its bore size. The design allowed for impressive muzzle velocities for a .22 caliber, promising a flatter trajectory and greater downrange energy.
Initial Release
The .22 Rem Jet’s sleek, bottlenecked design immediately set it apart. This shape, combined with a specific selection of fast-burning propellants, enabled the cartridge to propel its bullets at velocities that were groundbreaking for a rimfire round at the time. It was a bold move, a departure from the straight-walled cartridge designs common in .22 rimfire offerings. The cartridge’s design also allowed for efficient gas sealing, further enhancing performance.
The .22 Rem Jet Rifles: A Closer Look
Remington Models
The launch of the .22 Rem Jet cartridge was accompanied by the introduction of rifles specifically designed to chamber it. Remington, understandably, took the lead in producing rifles to meet the demand. Their primary offerings were the Remington 591 and 592. These were the only commercially available rifles from Remington chambered in the .22 Rem Jet.
The Remington 591 was a bolt-action rifle, typically holding five rounds in a detachable box magazine. The bolt action allowed for easy and reliable cycling of the high-velocity rounds. The 592 was the tube-fed version of this, it featured a tubular magazine under the barrel. Both models, characteristic of Remington’s build quality, were well-made and functional. They often featured walnut stocks, carefully designed ergonomics and were built to last.
The rifles themselves, in addition to being mechanically sound, were also aesthetically pleasing. The clean lines, classic stock design, and overall craftsmanship made them desirable to shooters and hunters. The Remington 591 and 592 showcased Remington’s commitment to quality and innovation in a newly created cartridge.
Other Manufacturers
While Remington dominated the market for .22 Rem Jet rifles, other manufacturers could have theoretically produced custom rifles in this caliber. The limited production of the cartridge and the short-lived popularity probably limited such production. However, custom gunsmiths may have, over time, chambered existing actions or barreled receivers.
Performance and Ballistics
Velocity and Energy
The .22 Rem Jet’s ballistic performance was undoubtedly its main selling point. The cartridge consistently delivered impressive muzzle velocities, often exceeding the speeds of the .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (WMR) cartridge at the muzzle. The .22 Rem Jet could push a 40-grain bullet to velocities approaching or exceeding 2,600 feet per second, a significant improvement over standard .22 Long Rifle ammunition.
Accuracy
This high velocity translated directly to a flatter trajectory, meaning the bullet dropped less over distance, making it easier to hit targets at longer ranges. This advantage was particularly beneficial for varmint hunters targeting small, fast-moving targets.
Effective Range
The accuracy potential of the .22 Rem Jet rifle was considerable, allowing for good groupings at moderate ranges. The overall accuracy depended on the individual rifle, the quality of the ammunition, and the shooter’s skill. Many owners of the .22 Rem Jet rifle reported that these rifles were capable of exceptional accuracy.
The .22 Rem Jet’s effective range was one of its major advantages compared to other .22 rimfire cartridges. The flatter trajectory and higher velocity extended the range at which the bullet remained effective for hunting small game. Many shooters found they could reliably hit targets out to two hundred yards or more, especially under favorable conditions.
Bullet Selection
The .22 Rem Jet used various bullet weights, the most common being 40-grain bullets. These bullets were typically designed for varmint hunting, with features like hollow points or soft points to ensure rapid expansion upon impact. This ensured efficient terminal performance.
Uses and Applications
Target Shooting
The .22 Rem Jet rifle’s intended applications were primarily geared toward varmint hunting, and it excelled in that role. Its high velocity, flat trajectory, and sufficient energy made it an effective tool for taking down prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small pests at ranges beyond what a standard .22 Long Rifle could achieve.
Varmint Hunting
The cartridge could have seen uses in target shooting, though this application was limited compared to its hunting advantages. The flat trajectory and accuracy offered potential for long-range target shooting competitions or plinking at extended ranges.
Other Applications
The .22 Rem Jet had some very definite advantages. The high velocity and flat trajectory gave it a clear performance advantage compared to standard .22 cartridges. Its unique status also attracted shooters looking for something different. The fact that its a high-velocity .22 cartridge would have attracted some hunters and shooters.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
However, the .22 Rem Jet also faced some significant disadvantages. The biggest was the short-lived production run and the limited availability of both rifles and ammunition. This made it difficult for the cartridge to gain widespread popularity. The limited production runs and scarcity have made both the rifle and ammunition collector’s items.
Disadvantages
Another issue was the difficulty in reloading. Reloading is when a spent cartridge is reused by replacing the primer, adding powder, and seating a new bullet. Reloading .22 Rem Jet cartridges was complex and often required specialized equipment, hindering the cartridge’s adoption by handloaders.
Barrel wear was another concern. The higher velocity cartridges, compared to the slower .22 cartridges, can cause more wear on the barrel. The faster burning powder combined with the pressures involved contributed to the rifles shorter lifespans.
Perhaps most significantly, the .22 Rem Jet struggled against its more popular rivals. The .22 WMR, with its similar ballistic properties and wider availability, ultimately eclipsed the .22 Rem Jet in popularity.
Legacy and Collectibility
Why It Failed Commercially
The .22 Rem Jet’s legacy is one of a fascinating but short-lived experiment in cartridge design. It’s a collector’s item now, sought after by firearms enthusiasts. The limited production, coupled with its unique characteristics, has made the .22 Rem Jet rifle a valuable collectible. The ammunition is incredibly hard to find.
Collectibility
The value of a .22 Rem Jet rifle depends on the condition, the specific model, and whether it comes with original accessories. Prices of the rifle can vary greatly, and its rarity has made it a treasured piece for collectors. The cartridges also command high prices when available.
Its Place in Firearms History
The .22 Rem Jet rifle’s failure to achieve widespread success doesn’t diminish its historical significance. It represents a period of innovation in firearms technology, showcasing the quest for increased performance within the .22 caliber. The .22 Rem Jet rifle continues to remind enthusiasts of the constant evolution of firearm design.
Conclusion
In closing, the .22 Rem Jet rifle remains a noteworthy example of cartridge development. Its high-velocity performance, combined with its limited production run, places it in a unique position among firearms. It is a cartridge that, although not achieving mass-market popularity, left its mark on firearms history. It’s a reminder of the ongoing pursuit of excellence in the realm of ballistics.
Resources & Further Reading
Websites:
- GunBroker.com – Search for “.22 Rem Jet” to see listings and learn more about current values.
- Various firearms forums and online communities (e.g., The Firing Line, GunTalk) – For discussions and information from other collectors and enthusiasts.
Books:
- “Cartridges of the World” by Frank C. Barnes – A comprehensive reference guide to ammunition, which will include a section on the .22 Rem Jet.
- Specialized firearms history books that focus on rimfire rifles or the history of Remington firearms.
Other:
- YouTube videos of the rifle being fired or discussed.
- Articles from gun magazines such as American Rifleman and Shooting Times
