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What is 204 Ruger ammo?🤔
It is a popular and versatile cartridge designed for varmint hunting. It was introduced in 2004 by Hornady, with 204 Ruger being the first commercially available .20 caliber centerfire rifle round.
Features 🔥
204 Ruger Ammo is an incredibly versatile and powerful ammunition choice due to its unique combination of high velocity, low recoil, and flat trajectory.
- ✳️ This ammo provides excellent performance when used for small game hunting, varmint hunting, target shooting, self-defense, and long-range shooting.
- ✳️ Its accuracy comes from its tight chamber dimensions that ensure consistent shot placement even at long distances.
- ✳️ The 204 Ruger round has a very flat trajectory so it retains energy over longer distances than other calibers in the same class.
- ✳️ It also offers reduced muzzle blast due to its small case size compared with other cartridges of similar performance.
- ✳️ As this ammo can be easily reloaded using standard equipment such as dies and shell holders makes it an attractive option for those who want to customize their load-outs.
- ✳️ The 204 Ruger round has impressive terminal ballistics thanks to its higher velocity which leads to deeper penetration into targets making it an ideal choice for taking down larger game animals such as deer or elk.
Benefits 💥
😉 The 204 Ruger ammunition is one of the most popular choices for avid hunters and target shooters alike. It has become increasingly popular due to its superior performance, accuracy, and affordability compared to other popular calibers. Here are some of the benefits:
- 🔷 Reliable Performance – These rounds offer reliable performance in any climate or terrain.
- 🔷 High Velocity – Cartridges have a muzzle velocity that reaches 3,200 feet per second (fps) with traditional factory loads, making them one of the fastest bullets available on the market today.
- 🔷 Great Accuracy – This ammo is designed to provide excellent accuracy in all conditions due to its high ballistic coefficient and low drag design.
- 🔷 Cost Efficient – It is often more cost-efficient than other types of ammunition due to its availability from several manufacturers worldwide as well as its lower production costs compared to larger caliber rounds like .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield.
Ballistic Performance 🎯
When searching for 204 Ruger ammo, it is important to consider the ballistic performance of the ammunition.
- ❇️ It is a great cartridge for small game and varmint hunting, as well as target shooting.
- ❇️ It has low recoil and can reach velocities up to 4000 feet per second when fired from a rifle.
- ❇️ These cartridges typically have minimal wind drift due to their bullet design and shape, allowing them to remain accurate even in windy conditions.
📌 The ballistic performance varies by load type and bullet weight, so you should research your specific needs before making a purchase decision.
🟧 .204 Ruger is available in a variety of bullet types, including full metal jacket (FMJ), soft point (SP), hollow point (HP), and plastic-tipped bullets.
- 🟣 FMJ ammunition offers good penetration but a minimal expansion, making it suitable for target shooting but not hunting.
- 🟣 SP bullets offer moderate expansion that can be effective against both small game and varmints.
- 🟣 HP ammunition provides the greatest expansion when impacting its target, resulting in more energy transfer and greater stopping power on impact.
- 🟣 Plastic-tipped bullets provide optimum accuracy at extended ranges due to their aerodynamic shape, while also providing reliable terminal performance against game animals.
Our Selection 14 Best 🚀 .204 Ruger Ammo – Editor’s Choice
1# 204 Ruger – 40 Grain Nosler Ballistic Tip – Federal V-Shok
Federal’s V-Shok line of varmint ammunition provides hunters with powerful and accurate rounds that are perfect for taking down small predators and varmints from coyotes to squirrels. The 204 Ruger round in particular is loaded with a 40-grain Nosler Ballistic Tip bullet that is designed to keep its shape until impact, at which point it will expand and fragment to create a devastating wound path. The boat tail design of the bullet ensures great accuracy at long range, while its high muzzle velocity of 3650 fps makes it extremely fast. Whether you’re looking to take down some pesky varmints or you need a round that can handle anything that comes your way, the Federal V-Shok 204 Ruger is a great choice.
2# 204 Ruger – 40 Grain V-Max – Fiocchi
Do you need an effective way to take down varmints? Look at the Fiocchi’s .204 Ruger ammunition. These specialized cartridges are designed for efficient pest extermination, and each round in this box of 50 packs a serious punch. The 40-grain Hornady V-MAX hollow point bullet has a high velocity of 3,700 feet per second, making it perfect for taking down coyotes, groundhogs, rabbits, and squirrels. And the V-MAX’s fragmenting design ensures that one good hit is all you need. You’ll appreciate the non-corrosive primers and brass cases, too. So don’t let varmints ruin your day – pick up a box of Fiocchi .204 Ruger ammo and be prepared for anything.
3# 204 Ruger – 32 Grain PTS Ballistic Tip – Sellier & Bellot
Searching for an edge in your next long-range competition? Sellier & Bellot’s 204 Ruger cartridge with 32-grain PTS Ballistic Tip may be just what you need. With its optimum bullet shape and polymer tip, this round is designed for maximum performance. The bullet’s lead core with its covering of strengthened casing helps prevent shattering on impact and instead provides deadly mushrooming. This ammo is ideal for hunting games at medium to long range and it is brass-cased, boxer-primed, and non-corrosive. So if you’re searching for an accurate and reliable round that will give you the competitive edge, be sure to check out Sellier & Bellot’s 204 Ruger with PTS Ballistic Tip.
4# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain V-MAX – Hornady
Do you want to find a way to take your rifle’s performance to the next level? Well, look no further than Hornady’s 204 Ruger Ammo. With this ammo, you can expect an increase of up to 200 fps without any extra chamber pressure, recoil, muzzle blast, temperature sensitivity, fouling, or loss of accuracy. That’s because it uses progressive propellants that take your favorite V-MAX, NTX, SST, GMX, and InterLock bullets and propel them to levels of performance that are simply unattainable with conventional ammunition. So if you need a way to give your rifle a boost, make sure you check out Hornady’s 204 Ruger Ammo.
5# 204 Ruger Ammo – 40 Grain V-MAX – Hornady
Need an edge over the competition? Look no further than Hornady’s Superformance line of ammunition. Superformance uses cutting-edge propellant technology to deliver 100 to 200 fps more velocity than standard ammunition, without any loss of accuracy or increase in felt recoil. This makes it the perfect choice for hunters, target shooters, and anyone who wants to get the most out of their firearm. Superformance is available in a wide range of calibers, from 17 Hornet to 444 Marlin, and is safe for use in all types of firearms. So whether you’re looking to stretch your hunting rifle’s performance out to new distances or want to put tight groups at the range, Superformance ammunition from Hornady will help you get there.
6# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain Rapid Expansion Polymer Tip – Winchester
The Winchester Varmint X Rifle Ammo is designed specifically for the demands of predator and varmint hunters. The sleek, polymer-tipped bullets are explosive upon impact, providing hunters with the ammunition they need to take down their prey quickly and efficiently. Varmint X combines the proven dependability Winchester is known for with today’s latest technology, making it the perfect choice for anyone who wants to be prepared for anything when out in the field.
7# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain Hornady V-Max – Federal Premium
The Federal Premium Varmint & Predator centerfire rifle ammunition is the perfect choice for taking down small game and predators. The new loads bring the accuracy and explosive expansion of the proven V-Max bullet loaded with extremely reliable brass primer and propellant. The V-Max bullet provides explosive performance on impact, making it a great choice for varmint and predator hunting. The brass case and reliable primer make this ammunition perfect for high-volume shooters.
8# 204 Ruger Ammo – 40 Grain Nosler Ballistic Tip – Federal Premium
Federal Premium V-Shok Centerfire Rifle Ammunition is designed with the consumer in mind. The patented design process absorbs shock, making this some of the safest ammunition on the market. With a long history of innovation in rifle ammo technology, Federal Premium is the leader in the industry. The .204 Ruger cartridge is perfect for varmint hunting, with its 40-grain bullet weight and boat tail design. Get a box of this high-quality ammo today!
9# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain AccuTip-V – Remington
Remington Premier Accutip-V 204 Ruger 32 Grain Ammo is an outstanding round for varmint hunters searching for flat trajectory and explosive results. The thin jacket reduces recoil and allows the projectile to expand reliably, while the impact energy causes the jacket to break or even break completely, allowing the projectile to be pushed violently and deep into the target. With a polymer tip and soft lead core for match-grade accuracy, this premium line of Remington ammunition is sure to provide maximum knockdown power on small games.
10# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain Brass Cased – Nosler
Nosler’s 204 Ruger Ballistic Tip 32-grain Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is the flawless choice for varmint hunters looking for extreme performance and versatility. The uniquely designed varmint bullets offer downrange performance and deep penetration, while the boat tail design ensures maximum distance. With the high velocity and long-range capabilities, this ammo is sure to deliver exceptional results in the field.
11# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain Flat Base Tipped Brass Cased – Nosler
Do you look for ammunition that can help you take down varmints quickly and efficiently? Nosler’s Varmageddon line of .204 Ruger ammo is just what you need. This flat base tipped brass-cased centerfire rifle ammunition provides outstanding accuracy and performance, making it ideal for the high-volume varmint shooter. With a muzzle velocity of 4000 ft/s, this ammo is sure to get the job done right. Order your supply of Nosler Varmageddon .204 Ruger 32 Grain Flat Base Tipped Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition today!
12# 204 Ruger Ammo – 36 Grain BlitzKing Nickel Plated Brass Cased – Sierra
The Sierra MatchKing 204 Ruger Ammo – 36 Grain BlitzKing Nickel Plated Brass Cased is the perfect choice for competitive shooters who demand the best in accuracy. This bullet has been designed specifically for the PALMA competition and has set the standard for consistent accuracy in handguns and rifles alike. With its superior ballistic properties, the Sierra MatchKing is the perfect choice for anyone looking to maximize their shooting potential.
13# 204 Ruger Ammo – 32 Grain Nosler Ballistic Tip – Federal Premium
Federal Premium’s V-Shok line of rifle ammunition is some of the best on the market, and their .204 Ruger 32 Grain Nosler Ballistic TipCenterfire Rifle Ammunition is no exception. This top-of-the-line ammo is designed for precision shooting, and its patented shock-absorbing design ensures that every shot is as accurate as possible. Federal Premium has been a leading innovator in rifle ammunition technology for years, and its dedication to quality shows in every round they produce. Whether you’re a seasoned marksman or a first-time shooter, you’ll be impressed with the performance of this top-notch ammo.
14# 204 Ruger Ammo – 40 Grain Brass Cased – Nosler
The Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint bullets are the ideal choice for dedicated varmint hunters who demand the utmost accuracy and reliability. These match-grade bullets are designed for long-range applications, and feature a boat tail configuration and streamlined polymer tip for violent expansion and reduced drag. The neck is filled with pure lead until loaded, after which the specialized powder charge is added. This unique design provides superior accuracy and consistent results at subsonic velocities, making it the ideal choice for the most demanding shooters.
Important Steps when Handload 🧑🔧
🤠 If you’re an experienced shooter, reloading 204 Ruger ammo may be something you’d like to consider. Properly reloaded cartridges can lead to improved performance, accuracy, and cost savings over buying factory-loaded ammo.
🚨 Before attempting to load, review the loading instructions for your particular 204 Ruger ammunition carefully before beginning any loading process. When it comes to handloading ammunition, it is critical to follow safety regulations and precautions at all times.
- ➡️ When loading, use only quality reloading equipment and high-grade components to ensure maximum accuracy and reliability.
- ➡️ Make sure to inspect each component carefully, check all cases for signs of wear or damage, and discard any that appear damaged or degraded in any way.
- ➡️ In terms of primers, always inspect them for corrosion or misfires before inserting them into the primer pocket.
- ➡️ Finally, always double-check your ammo before firing it in a firearm. It is important to ensure that all ammunition is free of any visual defects and contains no foreign materials or debris, as this could interfere with the proper functioning of the cartridge.
FAQ 😎
Conclusion 😊
In this article, you have learned about the different types of ammo that are available for the 204 Ruger cartridge. We’ve also reviewed some of the best-performing rounds on the market and given you a few tips on what to look for when purchasing ammunition. Now that you know more about the different options available to you, it’s time to get out there and start practicing with your new rifle! 🤩🎯
I’ve been considering purchasing a 204 Ruger as a truck gun for varmint and predator control on the ranch, dealing with animals like coyotes, badgers, and beavers. I’m curious to know how it compares to other calibers, particularly the 223. Additionally, I’m seeking recommendations for an affordable 204 rifle that can withstand the constant bouncing around in my truck.
In my experience, the 204 Ruger is comparable in performance to the 22-250, and some even argue that it’s a better round. As an owner of both calibers, I’ve found that they have similar effects on coyotes within a 400-yard range, and I prefer to use lighter bullets to avoid damaging their fur. As for a truck gun, I would suggest looking into a Ruger American or a Savage that can withstand the constant bouncing around.
In my experience, reloading can slightly mitigate the issue of limited bullet selection for the 204 Ruger, but unfortunately, there just aren’t many options available in the 20 calibers. Additionally, some of the available bullets may perform poorly in the 12-twist barrels that most factory-chambered 204 Rugers come with.
I am considering purchasing a Savage 12 VLP in .204 Ruger for target shooting and varmint hunting. What is your opinion on this rifle and its caliber? Is it a good choice?
In my opinion, the .204 is a really enjoyable round. I understand that some people might find it hard to justify choosing it over the .223 due to the availability and cost of ammo. However, the .204 is incredibly flat shooting and can take down varmints from a distance, while also experiencing less wind drift than some may assume. From what I’ve heard, it is a highly effective round for varmint hunting. Of course, some shooters prefer a fast twist .223 with heavy bullets (75gr), claiming that it performs similarly to the .204. Ultimately, I think the decision between the two comes down to whether or not you reload your ammo. The .204 is a great round for reloaders, with a lot of customization options available.
I built an AR chambered in .204 Ruger with a 24-inch barrel, and it is an absolute laser. It’s worth noting that unless you reload your ammo, it can be quite a bit more expensive than a .223. For coyote hunting, I typically use a 40 Grain Nosler Ballistic Tip – Federal V-Shok, and I’ve found that it performs better in windy conditions than a .223 55-gr bullet. Overall, I find the .204 to be a very impressive round, and I wouldn’t hesitate to build another rifle with it.
As of now, all my rifles are heavier bench rifles including my 223. So, I’m planning to purchase my first lightweight bolt-action hunting rifle, and I’m currently considering the Tikka T3X Superlite. After conducting some research, I have narrowed down my options to either the 204 Ruger or the 22-250. I don’t reload my ammo, and both rounds are priced similarly in my local area. I’ll mostly be shooting within 300 yards, but may occasionally take a shot up to 500 yards. I would greatly appreciate any input from those who have experience shooting either or both rounds and can provide a comparison.
I’m leaning towards the .204 between the two options. The ballistics of the .204 is very similar to the .22-250 within practical ranges, but with significantly less recoil. I think this will make a big difference on a lightweight rifle like the Tikka T3X Superlite. Overall, I believe less recoil is always better, so I would recommend going with the .204.
I just finished building a basic carbine AR-15 and I am now considering building a miniature SASS/REPR/SR-25 MK11 style rifle for shooting small garden-assaulting mammals like groundhogs, possums, and raccoons. I’m trying to decide if building it in .204 Ruger will give me a significant advantage over a standard .223. Since I plan to build the upper and lower parts, the price of the barrel will be the only significant difference in cost between the two calibers.
In my experience, the .204 is a very fast and flat-shooting round, with some of the ammo hitting up to 4200 fps. I am not sure about the results that reloaders are getting, but it could be worth exploring. That being said, while it is an interesting caliber, I don’t think it will provide any significant advantages over other rounds.
If you prefer to stick with the .223, you could opt for a fast twist barrel with a 1:8 ratio and use a 40gr bullet, which will provide similar speeds as the .204. When it comes to varmint hunting, speed is crucial, so it’s important to focus on that aspect. I own both a .204 and a .223, and each has its specific purpose.