It is currently the fastest production .22 caliber round in the world with muzzle velocities as high as 4,600 feet per second (1,402 meters per second).

However, the .220 Swift still holds the record as the fastest .22 caliber centerfire cartridge with a published velocity of 4,665 ft/s (1,422 m/s) using a 29-grain (1.9 g) projectile and 42 grains (2.7 g) of 3031 powder.

Another criticism is that, although the round is suited for long range varmint hunting, it is not good for medium game any further than 200 yards.

[7] The Winchester made Model 70 in .223 WSSM has not been revived in the new Browning-made Winchester Model 70s, but Browning has chosen to use chrome-lined barrels on all of its guns chambered for .223 WSSM and has introduced the .223 WSSM cartridge as a chambering in its A-bolt rifles.

"[8] According to Browning, the .223 WSSM offers a 600 ft/s (180 m/s) gain with a 55 gr (3.6 g) bullet over the standard .223 Rem.