.244 H&H Mag. Load Data

The .244 H&H Magnum, although not as widely known or as celebrated as some of Holland & Holland's other cartridges, is an example of classic British innovation in the world of high-velocity rifle rounds. Developed in the early-to-mid 20th century, the .244 H&H Mag. followed on the heels of customer demand for flatter shooting, high-velocity cartridges suitable for long-range hunting and target shooting. Holland & Holland, a name synonymous with elite sporting arms, created the .244 by necking down their renowned .375 H&H Magnum case to .244 caliber. The goal was to craft a cartridge that could rival the performance of the .243 Winchester or the .240 Weatherby Magnum but with the classic H&H belted magnum case dimensions. Although it never saw massive commercial success and remains a rare chambering, the .244 H&H Mag. cemented its reputation among collectors and aficionados who admire its unique blend of British gunmaking history and magnum performance.

In terms of application, the .244 H&H Magnum was designed with long-range hunting and competitive shooting in mind. The hefty case capacity of the parent .375 H&H allows the .244 H&H to reach impressive muzzle velocities, making it a favorite for those seeking flat trajectories at extended distances. Hunters have employed this cartridge on a variety of light to medium game, taking full advantage of its high velocity and accuracy for species like antelope, roe deer, and occasionally the larger British or European red deer. Although overshadowed by more commercially popular rounds in .243 and .25 calibers, the .244 H&H Mag. remains an interesting option for reloaders seeking something different and historically significant for field or range use. Additionally, its rarity and unique ballistics profile make it a talking piece for shooting enthusiasts at the bench or in the field.

Target species for the .244 H&H Magnum are primarily smaller to medium-sized game. Its high velocity and excellent flat-shooting characteristics allow ethical shots on species such as whitetail deer, pronghorn antelope, and similar-sized animals at considerable distance. Some hunters may even deploy it for fox, coyote, or other varmints, although its power roughly exceeds the minimum requirements for such small targets. Because of the cartridge's relatively narrow niche and limited factory ammo options, it's almost exclusively found in the hands of reloaders who can custom-tune its considerable power to match their chosen quarry, load, and rifle.

Typical bullet weights for the .244 H&H Mag. range from about 75 to 105 grains, which is in line with other cartridges in the .243 caliber class. Lighter bullets in the 75-85 grain range offer exceptional speed and are ideal for varmints and small predators, while the heavier 90-105 grain bullets provide the sectional density and downrange energy needed for deer and antelope. The sizable case capacity derived from the .375 H&H parent case means reloaders must be particularly knowledgeable about case filling and powder selection, as over-capacity with lighter pills can, in some loadings, lead to less consistent performance. Cases tend to be custom-made or formed from .375 H&H brass, and handloaders take advantage of the ample room to explore various bullet weight and profile combinations. The .244 H&H Magnum typically requires rifles with actions sized for magnum cartridges and features a belted, rimless case design—characteristics classic to magnum H&H cartridges. For those adept with custom loading and seeking a rare and historical round, the .244 H&H Mag. offers a rewarding and unique shooting experience.