5.6 x 52 R Load Data

The 5.6x52R, also known widely as the .22 Savage High-Power, is a rimmed centerfire rifle cartridge that has earned a respected place in shooting history. Developed in 1912 by Charles Newton for the Savage Model 99 lever-action rifle, this caliber was part of a wave of early 20th-century innovations aimed at higher-velocity small-bore cartridges. Notably, it was one of the first commercial cartridges to harness the capabilities of lighter, smaller-diameter bullets, delivering velocities and trajectories previously only seen in larger calibers. Its rimmed case made it compatible with a variety of rifle actions, such as break-open and lever rifles, which further expanded its popularity across North America and Europe.

Over the decades, the 5.6x52R has proven to be a versatile cartridge with multiple applications. Initially marketed as a .22 suitable for larger game, it became popular among hunters seeking to bridge the gap between traditional .22 rimfire rounds and the larger, more powerful .30 calibers. Its flat trajectory and relatively high velocity made it ideal for small to medium-sized game at ranges exceeding what traditional rimfires could manage. In Europe, the 5.6x52R also garnered favor among hunters and sport shooters, particularly in countries like Germany and Austria, where break-action and combination guns are common.

The target species for the 5.6x52R are a direct reflection of its ballistic capabilities. It is most often associated with hunting small to medium-sized game such as foxes, roe deer, chamois, and similar animals. Its ability to deliver sufficient energy while maintaining accuracy and minimal recoil makes it a popular choice for hunters seeking ethical kills on smaller-bodied game. The 5.6x52R is also suitable for pest and varmint control, further extending its usefulness to gamekeepers and landowners managing wildlife populations.

Regarding bullet weights and caliber characteristics, the 5.6x52R typically uses projectiles ranging from 70 to 74 grains. The classic loading features a .228-inch diameter bullet, which is slightly larger than the more common .224-inch bullets used in modern .22 centerfire cartridges. Muzzle velocities generally range between 2600 and 2800 feet per second, depending on loading and barrel length, providing ample energy and a flat shooting trajectory. This characteristic, combined with manageable recoil and a reputation for reliable terminal performance, ensures the 5.6x52R remains attractive to both reloaders and hunters with a penchant for classic calibers. Today, while factory ammunition can be rare, the 5.6x52R endures thanks to custom loading options, allowing handloaders to tailor their rounds for optimum performance in vintage and custom rifles alike.