Winchester Wildcat 22LR

[Thompsonfamily21625]

Does anyone know if you can shoot birdshot in a Winchester Wildcat? I just bought one last weekend for the groundhogs and birds around the farms. Any help would be great. Thanks

 

[Uncle Duke]

Does anyone know if you can shoot birdshot in a Winchester Wildcat? I just bought one last weekend for the groundhogs and birds around the farms. Any help would be great. Thanks

Check your owner's manual if you want the manufacturer's answer. I believe you'll find that it states not to shoot shot, most probably because of cycling issues.

 

[Thompsonfamily21625]

Check your owner's manual if you want the manufacturer's answer. I believe you'll find that it states not to shoot shot, most probably because of cycling issues.

The manual just states “use what is inscribed on the left side of the barrel“. On the left side of the barrel it says “Winchester Wildcat .22LR 16.5””.

 

[John from MD]

Most rifled barrels will cause birdshot to make terrible patterns. The only other thing it will do is lead a little more than regular bullets. If you are asking if it will cycle, they the only way is to try it.

I have tried bird shot in numerous rifles and pistols. Most didn't do well but a couple gave good patterns.

 

[Uncle Duke]

The manual just states “use what is inscribed on the left side of the barrel“. On the left side of the barrel it says “Winchester Wildcat .22LR 16.5””.

You're right OP, which got me to wondering why because I know I'd seen mention.

Turns out, the owner's manual I referenced that made specific mention of birdshot was a manual for a previous Wildcat iteration, this one being a bolt action, also marketed under the Wildcat trademark. I have referenced that mention below, but it isn't specific to your rifle. My apology for the confusion, as your manual indeed makes no specific mention of birdshot, one way or the other.

That said, there is nothing that I'm aware of about shooting 22lr birdshot that would harm your rifle. As John notes, you likely won't be impressed with the results though. And there is a better than good chance that they won't cycle your action. You might call Winchester to be doubly sure.

Good luck! If you should decide to try a few rounds of shot, let us know what you think!




Winchester Repeating Arms Wildcat User Manual
Page 7







AMMUNITION The Winchester Wildcat rifle must only be used with 22Long Rifle rimfire ammunition as designated on the barrel. Do not shoot 22 Short or 22 Long ammunition, blanks or bird shot cartridges. Always read the ammunition label and any enclosures with the ammunition to assure that the ammunition is appropriate or that there is no restriction for its use with your firearm. We can assume no responsibility for incidents which occur through the use of cartridges of nonstandard dimension or those developing pressures in excess of SAAMI (SportingArms and Ammunition Manufacturer’s Institute)
established standards.
Winchester ammunition is always an excellent choice for your new Winchester rifle, delivering the unmatched performance and dependability you want. DISCHARGING FIREARMS IN POORLY VENTILATED
AREAS, CLEANING FIREARMS OR HANDLING
AMMUNITION MAY RESULT IN EXPOSURE TO LEAD
AND OTHER SUBSTANCES KNOWN TO CAUSE
BIRTH DEFECTS, REPRODUCTIVE HARM AND
OTHER SERIOUS PHYSICAL INJURY. HAVE
ADEQUATE VENTILATION AT ALL TIMES. WASH
HANDS THOROUGHLY AFTER EXPOSURE.

 

[Thompsonfamily21625]

Thank you guys for taking the time to answer my question. I really appreciate it. If I do decide to try it, I'll you know.