As a lifelong hunter and avid reloader, I’ve seen cartridges come and go. But the .22 Hornet brass has consistently held a special place in my heart – and in the racks of many seasoned varmint and small deer hunters. Once a dominant cartridge, it saw a dip in popularity with the rise of faster, flatter-shooting options. However, the .22 Hornet is experiencing a well-deserved resurgence, fueled by its inherent accuracy, manageable recoil, and the growing appeal of classic cartridges. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about the .22 Hornet, from finding .22 Hornet bullets for reloading to selecting the best .22 Hornet rifle for your needs, and even its viability for .22 hornet for deer hunting.
Understanding the .22 Hornet: History and Ballistics
Developed in the 1930s by Horace Lyman, the .22 Hornet was born from necking down the .25 ACP case. Its initial purpose was to provide a flat-shooting, accurate cartridge for varmint control at longer ranges than the .22 Long Rifle could manage. For decades, it was the choice for prairie dog hunters and those pursuing small game. The cartridge’s popularity peaked in the mid-20th century, with Remington and Winchester both offering rifles chambered for it.
Ballistically, the .22 Hornet isn’t a powerhouse. It typically launches a 45-grain bullet at around 3,200 feet per second, delivering approximately 440 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. While this doesn’t compare to modern magnum cartridges, it’s more than sufficient for varmints and, with careful shot placement, can be effective on smaller deer species. Its strength lies in its accuracy and relatively flat trajectory out to 200 yards, making it a superb choice for precise shooting. You can find detailed ballistic charts on sites like Ballistic Studies.
Finding and Working with .22 Hornet Brass
One of the biggest challenges with the .22 Hornet is sourcing .22 Hornet brass. Production has been sporadic over the years, leading to periods of scarcity and inflated prices. Currently, Remington is the primary manufacturer, but availability can still fluctuate.
Sourcing .22 Hornet Cases
Here are a few avenues to explore:
- Online Retailers: MidwayUSA, Brownells, and other online retailers often carry .22 Hornet brass when available.
- Gun Shows: Gun shows can be a good source for finding older stock or brass from other reloaders.
- Reloading Forums: Online reloading forums are excellent places to connect with other shooters and potentially trade or purchase brass.
.22 Hornet Reloading: A Primer
Reloading 22 hornet is a rewarding experience, allowing you to tailor loads to your specific rifle and achieve optimal accuracy. However, it requires meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to safety. Always consult a reputable reloading manual – I personally recommend the Hornady Reloading Manual – and follow all safety precautions. Hornady's reloading data is a great starting point.
.22 K Hornet Load Data Considerations
The .22 K-Hornet is a wildcat cartridge based on the .22 Hornet, offering slightly improved performance. .22 k hornet load data differs significantly from standard .22 Hornet data, so never substitute one for the other. If you're considering the .22 K-Hornet, research it thoroughly and obtain load data specifically for that cartridge.
Choosing the Right .22 Hornet Bullets
Selecting the right .22 Hornet bullets for reloading is crucial for accuracy and performance. While a variety of bullet weights are available, 45-grain bullets are the most common and generally provide the best results in most .22 Hornet rifles.
Popular Bullet Choices
- Sierra 45-grain HP: A classic choice for varmint hunting, known for its excellent accuracy and expansion.
- Speer 45-grain SP: Another reliable option for varmints and small game.
- Hornady 45-grain V-Max: Designed for maximum velocity and accuracy, ideal for longer-range shooting.
Experimenting with different bullet weights and designs is key to finding what works best in your rifle. Remember to consult your reloading manual for recommended starting loads and work up gradually.
.22 Hornet Rifles: Current Production and Reviews
Finding current production 22 hornet rifles can be a challenge, but several options are available. Historically, Remington and Winchester were the primary manufacturers, but production has shifted over time.
Current and Recent Production Rifles
- CZ 527 American: CZ offers a high-quality bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 Hornet. It’s known for its accuracy and smooth action. This is arguably the best .22 hornet rifle currently available.
- Thompson/Center Encore: The Encore is a single-shot rifle that can be chambered in .22 Hornet. It offers versatility and accuracy.
- Older Remington and Winchester Models: Used Remington Model 7 and Winchester Model 70 rifles in .22 Hornet can be found on the used market. These are often excellent rifles, but require careful inspection.
.22 Hornet Rifle Reviews: What to Look For
When researching a .22 hornet rifle review, pay attention to these factors:
- Accuracy: Look for rifles with a reputation for consistent accuracy.
- Action Smoothness: A smooth, reliable action is essential for accurate shooting.
- Trigger Quality: A crisp, clean trigger pull is crucial for precision.
- Barrel Quality: A high-quality barrel will contribute to accuracy and longevity.
.22 Hornet for Deer Hunting: Is it Ethical?
The question of whether the .22 hornet for deer hunting is ethical is a contentious one. While it can be effective on smaller deer species (like whitetail does or smaller bucks) at close ranges (under 100 yards) with precise shot placement, it’s not ideal. The .22 Hornet lacks the energy and bullet weight to consistently deliver a quick, humane kill on larger deer.
I personally recommend using a more powerful cartridge for deer hunting whenever possible. However, in areas where .22 Hornet is the only legal option, or for experienced hunters who are confident in their ability to make ethical shots, it can be used responsibly. Always prioritize ethical hunting practices and ensure a quick, clean kill. Refer to your state’s hunting regulations for specific requirements. The National Park Service provides information on hunting regulations in national parks, and your state's Department of Fish and Wildlife will have specific rules.
.22 Hornet Range and Practical Applications
The .22 hornet range is generally considered effective out to 200 yards, although accuracy can be maintained at longer distances with careful shooting. Its primary applications include:
- Varmint Hunting: Prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small varmints are ideal targets for the .22 Hornet.
- Small Game Hunting: Squirrels, rabbits, and other small game can be effectively harvested with the .22 Hornet.
- Target Shooting: The .22 Hornet is a fun and accurate cartridge for target shooting and competition.
- Training: Its low recoil makes it an excellent cartridge for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals of rifle shooting.
Leave No Trace and Responsible Shooting
Regardless of the cartridge you choose, always practice responsible shooting and adhere to the principles of Leave No Trace. Pack out all trash, respect wildlife, and be mindful of your surroundings. The USDA Forest Service offers excellent resources on responsible outdoor recreation.
.22 Hornet Reloading Resources
.22 Hornet Bullets
.22 Hornet Rifles
.22 Hornet for Deer Hunting
.22 K Hornet Load Data
Best .22 Hornet Rifle
.22 Hornet Rifle Review
.22 Hornet Range
I hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with a solid understanding of the .22 Hornet. It’s a cartridge with a rich history and a bright future, offering a unique combination of accuracy, affordability, and fun. Happy shooting!