.22 Hornet Ammo

The .22 Hornet ammunition category appeals to shooters and hunters who appreciate the blend of low recoil, moderate velocity, and effectiveness for small game hunting and varmint control. Developed in the 1920s and standardized in 1930, the .22 Hornet has a storied history, providing a significant step up in performance from rimfire cartridges without the noise and recoil of larger centerfire rounds. This selection features high-quality ammunition from leading brands, perfect for those seeking precision and efficiency in a small caliber round.


Intended Use: The .22 Hornet is ideally suited for hunting small game, varmint, and pest control, offering sufficient power for clean, ethical kills at reasonable distances. Its accuracy and minimal recoil also make it a favorite for target shooting and training, where shooters can enjoy extended sessions without fatigue.

Caliber/Size: As one of the earliest centerfire varmint cartridges, the .22 Hornet offers shooters a compact and efficient round capable of impressive accuracy and terminal performance for its size. It fills the gap between high-powered rimfire cartridges and more powerful centerfire varmint calibers, providing a versatile option for various shooting disciplines.

Performance Characteristics: Known for its flat trajectory and modest velocity, the .22 Hornet can effectively dispatch small game and varmints at distances beyond what typical rimfire cartridges can manage. Its low recoil and report are particularly appreciated in populated or noise-sensitive areas.

Material and Construction: .22 Hornet ammunition is produced with quality components, featuring brass casings and a selection of bullet designs tailored to its hunting and target shooting roles. Options include soft point (SP) bullets for effective expansion on small game and hollow point (HP) bullets for varmint hunting, ensuring reliable performance across a range of applications.

Brands and Manufacturers: This category includes offerings from reputable manufacturers such as Hornady. These brands are known for their commitment to quality and consistency, providing .22 Hornet shooters with reliable options that maximize the cartridge’s potential.

A Brief History: The .22 Hornet originated from the black powder .22 WCF cartridge and was developed into a modern smokeless powder cartridge. Its adoption by varmint hunters and target shooters was swift, thanks to its superior range and efficiency compared to rimfire alternatives, cementing its place in shooting sports history.

FAQs:

  1. What is the effective range of a .22 Hornet? The .22 Hornet is effective for hunting and varmint control at ranges up to 200 yards, with the capability to reach out further under ideal conditions, making it a versatile choice for various small game species.
  2. Can the .22 Hornet be used for deer hunting? While the .22 Hornet is capable of taking smaller game, it is generally not recommended for deer hunting due to its limited energy and penetration, which may not ensure humane kills on larger animals.
  3. How does the .22 Hornet compare to other varmint calibers? The .22 Hornet offers a unique combination of low recoil, quiet report, and effectiveness at moderate ranges, sitting between the performance of high-end rimfire cartridges like the .22 WMR and larger centerfire varmint rounds such as the .223 Remington.

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