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Best 22 Hornet Ammo

AmmoCave has collected the best hottest Best .22 Hornet Ammo for self-defense at sale prices

What is 22 Hornet Ammo? 🔍

🚀 The .22 Hornet is a centerfire rifle cartridge designed for varmint hunting and small game. It was developed in the early 1930s by Winchester and is still in production today. The cartridge has a bullet diameter of .224 inches (5.7 mm) and a case length of 1.403 inches (35.6 mm).

22 Hornet Ammo

Features 🔐

📍 Accurate 📍 High Muzzle Velocity
📍 Versatile 📍 Light Bullets
📍 Low Recoil 📍 Energy
Our Top Pick
22 Hornet – 35 Grain V-MAX – Hornady
Hornady's Varmint Express rifle ammunition is not only resistant to corrosion, but they also inflict deep wounds that will immobilize any target with a single shot.
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Benefits 💣

🔵 The .22 Hornet has a flat trajectory and low recoil, making it an accurate cartridge for varmint hunting and target shooting.
🔵 It can be fired from a variety of firearms, including bolt-action and single-shot rifles, as well as some handguns.
🔵 The relatively low recoil makes it easy to shoot, especially for beginners or those who are sensitive to recoil.
🔵 With a muzzle velocity of around 2,500 feet per second (762 meters per second), the ammo delivers a flat trajectory and high velocity, making it a good choice for hunting small game and varmints.
🔵 It is typically loaded with light bullets weighing between 35 and 55 grains (2.3 to 3.6 grams), which allows for high velocities and flat trajectories.
🔵 With a muzzle energy of around 700 foot-pounds (950 joules), the rounds delivers enough energy to take down small game and varmints, while still being relatively easy to shoot.
Our Top Pick
22 Hornet – 35 Grain Tipped Varmint – Federal Premium
For avid varmint hunters, this ammo is your ideal choice. Not only are these rounds reloadable and composed of high-grade brass cases, but their reliable primers also make them an economical option for any rifle enthusiast.
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How to Reload .22 Hornet Ammo?💡

🔧 Reloading .22 Hornet ammunition requires some knowledge of the reloading process and appropriate equipment. 👣 Here are the basic steps:

1️⃣ Gather your equipment: You will need a reloading press, die set, case trimmer, powder scale, primer pocket cleaner, powder funnel, case lubricant, reloading manual, and reloading components (brass, bullets, powder, and primers).
2️⃣ Clean the brass: Before reloading, clean the used brass cases thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or residue.
3️⃣ Resize the brass: Insert the brass case into the resizing die and use the reloading press to resize it to the correct dimensions.
4️⃣ Trim the brass: Use the case trimmer to trim the brass case to the correct length.
5️⃣ Prime the brass: Insert a primer into the primer pocket using a priming tool.
6️⃣ Add powder: Use a powder scale to measure the appropriate amount of powder and use a powder funnel to add it to the brass case.
7️⃣ Seat the bullet: Place the bullet into the case and use the reloading press to seat it at the correct depth.
8️⃣ Crimp the brass (optional): If desired, use the crimp die to crimp the brass case to the bullet.
9️⃣ Inspect and test: Inspect each round for any defects or anomalies and test-fire a few rounds to ensure proper function and accuracy.

🎥 Watch the video to see the approximate process:

⚠️ It’s important to follow proper reloading practices and safety procedures to ensure safe and reliable ammunition. 💡 It is recommended to consult a reloading manual or seek guidance from an experienced reloader before attempting to reload ammunition.

Our Top Pick
22 Hornet – 35 Grain AccuTip-V – Remington
This precision-crafted projectile guarantees match-grade accuracy, exceptional trajectory, and tremendous terminal energy for superior results.
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Our Selection 11 Best 🎯 .22 Hornet Ammo – Editor’s Choice

1# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain Polymer Tip – Winchester Varmint-X

22 Hornet - 35 Grain Polymer Tip - Winchester Varmint-X

20 Rounds

When you are looking for a versatile, high-speed varmint round, the 22 Hornet is a perfect choice. With Winchester Varmint-X ammunition, you will get superior performance and energy compared to other popular varmint rounds. The 22 Hornet was released to the public in 1930 and is still one of the best varmint rounds on the market today. It is perfect for pest control of all types of small and medium animals. Winchester has been a trusted name in ammunition for over 150 years. Their ammunition is loaded with only the highest quality components right here in the USA. Choose Winchester Varmint-X ammunition for your next pest control project and rest assured that you are getting the best possible performance out of your firearm.

Pros:
  • Low recoil
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Reliable
  • Good terminal performance
Cons:
  • Higher price
  • Lower velocity
  • Limited availability

 

2# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain V-MAX – Hornady

22 Hornet - 35 Grain V-MAX - Hornady

25 Rounds

Hornady’s new Varmint Express line of rifle ammunition is exactly what you need for high-quality, accurate performance. The bullets are corrosion-resistant and have excellent impact performance, forming deep wounds that immobilize the target. They also work well in all temperature conditions. The cannelured design of the bullets prevents common problems. With Hornady ammo, you can be confident that you’re getting dependable, consistent performance every time.

Video review

Pros:
  • Highly accurate
  • Forms deep penetrations on impact
  • Works well in all temperatures
  • Corrosion-resistant
  • Consistent performance
Cons:
  • High price
  • Can be difficult to find on the market

 

3# 22 Hornet – 45 Grain Jacketed Soft Point – Winchester

22 Hornet - 45 Grain Jacketed Soft Point - Winchester

50 Rounds

The Winchester 22 Hornet is one of the most trusted and dependable varmint rounds on the market. With a lead core designed for maximum fragmentation, a soft point for rapid explosive expansion, and a thin wall jacket for reduced engraving forces, this round is perfect for taking down those pesky varmints. Whether you’re plinking at the range or hunting in the field, the Winchester 22 Hornet is sure to provide outstanding performance and accuracy. So don’t let the varmints get the upper hand, pick up a box of Winchester 22 Hornet today.

Video review

Pros:
  • Time-proven dependability
  • Legendary excellence
  • Maximum fragmentation
  • Rapid explosive expansion
  • Thin wall jacket
Cons:
  • May not be as reliable as other rounds
  • May not penetrate enough

 

4# 22 Hornet – 45 Grain Pointed Soft Point – Remington

22 Hornet - 45 Grain Pointed Soft Point - Remington

50 Rounds

Looking for a reliable .22 Hornet Ammo? Look no further than Remington High-Performance Rifle Ammunition. This ammo is constructed with reloadable brass cases and dependable primers that ensure you’re getting consistent performance out of your rifle. And you don’t need to worry about wasted bullets either. Remington’s proprietary Power-Lok technology ensures that you get optimum speed, accuracy, and power with every shot. This is why more shooting sportsmen trust Remington High-Performance Rifle Ammunition than any other. Put this .22 Hornet Ammo to the test and bring home a haul of birds, varmint, and other small game.

Pros:
  • Reloadable brass cases
  • Dependable primers
  • Consistent performance
  • Proprietary Power-Lok technology
  • Optimum accuracy and power
Cons:
  • Lack of expansion
  • Lower muzzle velocity

 

5# 22 Hornet – 46 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point – Winchester

22 Hornet - 46 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point - Winchester

50 Rounds

Looking for an affordable, accurate, and reliable option for varmint and predator hunting? Winchester’s 22 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point ammo is perfect for you! With a rearward weight design that enhances accuracy, these jacketed hollow points will deliver a forceful expansion on impact. Founded in 1866, Winchester is one of the most trusted and respected ammunition brands in the US. With many of their products used by the US military, you can be confident that this ammo will deliver precision with every shot. Don’t hesitate to purchase this affordable ammo for your hunting needs! This 50-round box is non-corrosive, reloadable, and boxer-primed.

Video review

Pros:
  • Affordable
  • Reliable
  • Non-corrosive
  • Forceful expansion on impact
Cons:
  • May not be as accurate as other brands
  • Can be difficult to find

 

6# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain Tipped Varmint – Federal Premium

22 Hornet - 35 Grain Tipped Varmint - Federal Premium

50 Rounds

The Federal Premium American Eagle .22 Hornet 35gr Tipped Varmint Rifle Ammo is the perfect choice for those looking for a tipped varmint round. These rounds are reloadable and made with high-quality brass cases and reliable primers, making them a cost-effective option. The bullets are consistent and accurate, providing you with the same level of performance regardless of the conditions. This ammo is easy to load and provides you with superior accuracy when hunting varmints. When you combine the ease of use with the deadly precision of the American Eagle brand, you get a dangerous combination that will help you dispatch those pesky varmints for good. Purchase your ammunition today and enjoy the savings!

Pros:
  • Explosive expansion on impact
  • Highly reloadable
  • Consistent primers
  • Reliable feeding and function
  • Bulk packs reduce in-the-field waste
Cons:
  • May not be as accurate as some users would like
  • Tend to be a bit more expensive than other rounds

 

7# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain Polymer Tip Brass Cased – Browning

22 Hornet - 35 Grain Polymer Tip Brass Cased - Browning

20 Rounds

The Browning BXV 22 Hornet 35 gr Polymer Tip ammo is designed to provide hunters with the perfect round for taking down predators and varmints. The polymer tip helps to improve the ballistic coefficient, resulting in better trajectory and downrange velocity. With its flat trajectory and high downrange velocity, this round is sure to take down even the most elusive prey.

Pros:
  • Improved ballistic coefficient
  • Flat trajectory
  • High downrange velocity
Cons:
  • Polymer tip can cause damage to rifling
  • Lower accuracy

 

8# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain Rapid Expansion Polymer Tip – Winchester

22 Hornet - 35 Grain Rapid Expansion Polymer Tip - Winchester

20 Rounds

Winchester’s Varmint X line of ammunition is specifically designed for taking down small, quick-moving targets. The 22 Hornet cartridge is loaded with a sleek polymer-tipped bullet that is designed to fragment upon impact, creating a large wound channel. The lead core and alloy jacket make this ammunition ideal for rapid expansion and maximum damage. Keep in mind that this ammunition is not designed for live animals, so use it with caution if you’re planning on hunting with it. The .22 Hornet is a very fast-moving target, so you’ll need to be quick and precise if you want to take one down. With Varmint X ammunition, you can be confident that you have the power and accuracy you need to take down your prey.

Pros:
  • Polymer-tipped bullet for rapid fragmentation
  • Alloy jacket and lead core
  • Long-range performance
  • Rapid explosive fragmentation
Cons:
  • Over penetration
  • May cause ricochet or other hazards

 

9# 22 Hornet – 30 Grain Speer TNT Green Hollow Point – Federal Premium

22 Hornet - 30 Grain Speer TNT Green Hollow Point - Federal Premium

50 Rounds

Precision engineering and industry-leading quality combine to make Federal Premium V-SHOK® 22 Hornet 30gr Speer TNT Green HP Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. This exciting and innovative projectile features a metal-wrapped, hollow-point design that provides better penetration and deadly performance shot after shot. It’s the ultimate round for varmint and predator shooting, as well as hunting, feeding and self-defence. The Speer TNT Green HP Bullet is a super-charged, lead-free tipped bullet that expands reliably at even the highest velocities. It’s the only tipped bullet that provides both explosive expansion and superior terminal performance for a wide range of varmint and predator sizes.

Pros:
  • Superior penetration
  • Deadly performance
  • Explosive expansion
  • Consistent reliability and feeding
Cons:
  • May not be as reliable as other brands
  • May not provide the best penetration

 

10# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain AccuTip-V – Remington

22 Hornet - 35 Grain AccuTip-V - Remington

50 Rounds

If you’re looking for unrivalled accuracy and terminal performance in a varmint bullet, look no further than the Remington AccuTip-V. This precision-crafted bullet is designed for match-grade accuracy, flat trajectory, and explosive terminal energy. The polymer tip and lead core are optimized for superior on-game performance, and the thin jacket ensures maximum expansion and fragmentation upon impact. With thousands of rounds in development, the AccuTip-V is the clear choice for serious hunters who demand the very best.

Pros:
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Smoother trajectory
  • Crushing final energy
  • Optimized for match-grade accuracy
  • Varmint Accuracy
Cons:
  • May not be as destructive in the hunt as other 22 Hornet cartridges
  • May not penetrate as deeply as other tips

 

11# 22 Hornet – 35 Grain Flat Base Tipped Brass Cased – Nosler

22 Hornet - 35 Grain Flat Base Tipped Brass Cased - Nosler

20 Rounds

Looking for outstanding ammunition performance specifically for varmints? Look no further than Nosler Varmageddon Centerfire Rifle Ammunition. It includes a highly accurate polymer hollow point or tip, combined with the flat base design for exceptional accuracy. Nosler engineered this ammo for those who shoot varmints in high volumes and require pinpoint precision. Each round features Nosler brass and offers a high-performance marriage of bullet and powder. As expected from Nosler ammunition, each round is perfect – visually inspected and precise measurements are taken, including the length of the case and weight of the powder charge. Outstanding accuracy, consistent performance, and superior quality – that’s what you can expect from Nosler Varmageddon Centerfire Rifle Ammunition.

Video review

Pros:
  • Flat base for increased accuracy
  • Reliable Nosler brass
  • Precise measurements
  • Consistent performance
Cons:
  • High price
  • Some shooters complain about the quality

 

⚔️ .22 Hornet Ammo vs .22 LR Ammo ⚔️

📢 The .22 Hornet and .22 LR (Long Rifle) are both popular cartridges for small game hunting, plinking, and target shooting, but they have some significant differences:

  • 🔰 Cartridge size:

⇢ The .22 Hornet is a centerfire cartridge with a bullet diameter of .224 inches and a case length of 1.403 inches, while the .22 LR is a rimfire cartridge with a bullet diameter of .222 inches and a case length of .613 inches.

  • 🔰 Power:

⇢ The .22 Hornet is a more powerful cartridge than the .22 LR. The .22 Hornet typically delivers a muzzle velocity of around 2,500 feet per second and a muzzle energy of around 700 foot-pounds, while the .22 LR delivers a muzzle velocity of around 1,200 feet per second and a muzzle energy of around 130 foot-pounds.

  • 🔰 Range:

⇢ The .22 Hornet has a flatter trajectory and longer effective range than the .22 LR. The .22 Hornet can be accurate out to 200 yards or more, while the .22 LR is generally effective out to around 100 yards.

  • 🔰 Recoil:

⇢ The .22 Hornet has a bit more recoil than the .22 LR, but it is still relatively low.

  • 🔰 Availability:

⇢ The .22 LR is much more widely available and less expensive than the .22 Hornet. While the .22 Hornet is still in production, it is not as commonly found on store shelves as the .22 LR.

🎥 Watch the video to see their performance:

FAQ 🤔

How far can a 22 Hornet shoot accurately?

📢 Generally, the 22 Hornet has a maximum effective range of around 200-250 yards (183-229 meters) when using high-quality ammunition and a well-maintained rifle. Beyond that range, the bullet may lose velocity and accuracy, making it difficult to hit targets with consistency.

⚠️ It’s worth noting that wind, humidity, and other environmental factors can also impact the accuracy and range of a rifle. Therefore, it’s essential to practice shooting under different conditions to become a skilled shooter and accurately assess the maximum effective range of your rifle.

What firearms do shoot 22 Hornet ammo?
📢 Here are some examples:

  • 🔹 Winchester Model 70
  • 🔹 Ruger No. 1
  • 🔹 Thompson/Center Contender
  • 🔹 CZ 527
  • 🔹 Savage Model 25
  • 🔹 Anschutz 1730
  • 🔹 Remington 504
  • 🔹 Sako Quad

🔔 There are also several other rifles, including some single-shot and bolt-action models, that can shoot this ammunition.

🔔 Additionally, some firearm manufacturers make pistols chambered for the 22 Hornet cartridge, such as the Thompson/Center Contender and the Savage Striker.

Is 22 Hornet ammo still made?
✅ Yes, the 22 Hornet cartridge is still in production, and ammunition can be readily found at most gun stores or online retailers that sell ammunition.

📢 Several well-known ammunition manufacturers: Hornady, Winchester, and Federal Premium.

What are .22 Hornet rounds good for?
🔎 Here are some of the common uses:

  • 🔘 Hunting: The cartridge is suitable for small game hunting, such as rabbits, squirrels, and foxes. With its low recoil and flat trajectory, it’s also an excellent choice for varmint hunting, such as prairie dogs or groundhogs, where the shooter needs to make accurate shots at longer ranges.
  • 🔘 Target shooting: The low recoil and accuracy of this ammo make it a popular choice for target shooting. It’s also an economical round to shoot, making it an ideal choice for plinking and honing marksmanship skills.
  • 🔘 Pest control: Due to its accuracy and relatively low power, it is often used for pest control, such as controlling rodent populations on farms or in suburban areas.
  • 🔘 Reloading: The cartridge is an excellent choice for hand loaders who enjoy the process of creating custom loads for their firearms.

📌 Overall, the .22 Hornet is a versatile round that can be used for a variety of purposes and is a popular choice among shooters and hunters alike.

Can 22 Hornet ammo be reloaded?
✅ Yes, it is a centerfire cartridge that can be reloaded by hand loaders. 📌 The cartridge is relatively easy to reload, and the components needed for reloading are readily available.
How many grains of powder are in a 22 Hornet?
🔔 The amount of powder can vary depending on the specific load and bullet weight, as well as the type of powder used. 📍 Generally, a typical 22 Hornet load will use between 10 and 13 grains of powder.

  • ⚫️ For example, Hodgdon’s Reloading Data Center lists a load using 10.3 grains of Hodgdon Lil’Gun powder with a 40-grain bullet.
  • ⚫️ Another example is a load using 12.5 grains of Hodgdon H110 powder with a 45-grain bullet.

Conclusion 🧾

22 Hornet Ammo is a great choice for varmint hunting and pest control. It offers good accuracy and penetration at moderate range, making it an excellent choice for small game. In this article, we’ve shared some of the best options based on performance and price. Hope you will find the perfect round for your next hunt! 🤠😎

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Twiggy
Twiggy
9 months ago

As a new owner of a 22 Hornet, I’ve heard that reloading this caliber can be challenging. Would anyone be willing to share their accurate load(s) for this round? I’m looking for a starting point as I begin to explore reloading for this cartridge.

Projectile
Projectile
Reply to  Twiggy
9 months ago

Personally, I’ve had success using H110 powder in conjunction with Barnes 35 gr. Varmint Grenade bullets for my 22 Hornet rifle. I typically use a load of 12 grains, which is below the maximum limit but still performs well for distances of up to 400 yards. My firearm is an 1893 Low Wall that has been re-barreled.

Clon Dike
Clon Dike
Reply to  Twiggy
9 months ago

It’s important not to believe all the rumors circulating on the internet about reloading the 22 Hornet, as it’s not necessarily a difficult process. I personally load approximately 6-700 rounds annually to use in Hunter Pistol matches, and I’ve never experienced any issues with crushed cases.

Pisist_s
Pisist_s
Reply to  Twiggy
9 months ago

In my experience, using AA1680 powder in combination with 40 gr. Nosler Ballistic Tip bullets has worked very well for my 22 Hornet rifle.

Zipper
Zipper
Reply to  Twiggy
9 months ago

I have found that using Lil’ Gun powder and small pistol primers in conjunction with 35 gr. Hornady VMAX bullets produces the best results for my 22 Hornet rifle.

Saper Gill
Saper Gill
Reply to  Zipper
9 months ago

I can attest to the effectiveness of this combination in my rifle. With a velocity exceeding 3,000 fps and the ability to produce sub-MOA groups, it’s an excellent choice for taking down prairie dogs at distances of up to 200 yards – which is as far as I’ve tested it.

Huus
Huus
9 months ago

I have found that PPU 22 Hornet ammunition performs exceptionally well in my 22/77 Hornet rifle.

Droplex
Droplex
9 months ago

The 22 Hornet is a gentle yet effective cartridge, well-suited for taking down small game at distances of up to 150 yards. I once owned a Ruger #3 chambered in this caliber, which proved to be a reliable firearm for hunting turkeys and coyotes. Additionally, the 22 Hornet can be used for indoor plinking by loading a primed case with an inverted 22 caliber pellet, making it a relatively quiet alternative to an air rifle.

saah Verich
saah Verich
9 months ago

When measuring bullet diameter, which method is more accurate: using vernier calipers with a precision of +/- .001″, or a reliable micrometer?

Casper B
Casper B
9 months ago

I own a used H&R hand rifle chambered in 22 Hornet, which I purchased from Gander Mountain for $150 a few years back. This caliber is one of my favorites, and I am interested in finding other firearms that are compatible with it. I primarily use this ammo for hunting groundhogs

Franken 88
Franken 88
9 months ago

I have recently parted ways with my Savage 23 and acquired a Ruger #3 chambered in Hornet. The rifle is lightweight and compact, with minimal recoil and a subdued report, making it an attractive option. For optimal velocity, I used this ammo with Lil Gun powder.

lase99
lase99
9 months ago

What is the recoil like for 22 Hornet ammo?

Production
Production
9 months ago

I’ve been using this ammo for years and it never fails to impress me. It’s accurate, consistent, and has plenty of power to take down small games like rabbits and squirrels. I’ve tried other calibers, but always come back to the 22 Hornet 

Oeroneiro
Oeroneiro
9 months ago

Using it for varmint control on my farm for years, and it’s been a lifesaver. It’s quiet, accurate, and doesn’t damage property or livestock as some larger calibers can.