In assessing the .224 Clark I’m forced to quote G1 values; the industry is somewhat reticent to adopt G7s. Using Hornady’s online trajectory tool I compared the Clark to other flat shooting rounds: |
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Even though the Clark's reputation at distance is stellar, these results were eye-opening. At best I figured it could hang with STWs and Ultra Mags, not eclipse them. The Berger VLD did most of the lifting though. Its high SD and secant 15 ogive returns a jet-like BC. Coupled with Ken Clark's old over-bore wildcat and we have enough push to get the ultimate in flat. Before we wrap-up I want to mention a couple of things. Ballistic coefficients are not absolutes. Atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, and altitude can alter a bullet’s BC. Secondly, G7 BCs are not immune to velocity. They do change as speeds alter, just not as much as a G1 coefficient. Last but not least, sectional density (SD) is a critical variable when it comes to trajectory: BC = SD/i = M/(i x d^2) The form factor “i” = (Cb/Cg) Cb = drag coefficient of the bullet Cg = drag coefficient of G1 (~0.5191) M = mass of bullet d = diameter of bullet If you want to defeat wind, the above derivation is telling. Create a low-drag projectile of high mass relative to its diameter. Big ballistic coefficients soon follow. The last ingredient to add is velocity!!! |
So it goes fast and shoots flat. But is it accurate? Retumbo and US869 returned tight and consistent little clusters with the 90 gr Berger. A slight edge to the 869 on group size and velocity, but the Clark and Retumbo mix well. Both loads gave 3/4 MOAs or less, the tightest being 0.408": |
Like so many of the wildcats we build, the Clark fills a specialized role. To truly stretch its legs you need to stretch the target, literally. Inside 400 yards and you might as well grab a Swift or large 6mm. Otherwise it's like driving a Ferrari and never clutching high gear. Of course loads can be tailored, or de-tuned, to increase longevity for shorter ranges. Its flexibility is easily over-looked. But going that route leaves you with a very high dollar one-off rifle. I don't know if mine will ever see 1,000 yards but I sure hope it does. Regardless, I'm pleased with our new small bore missile. This .224 is fast, accurate, recoils little, and acts like a range-finder when zeroed at 400 yards. To date mine has seen 200 rounds. I'll post updates as it approaches 500, then 1,000. Please direct questions and comments to lee@singleactions.com. |