Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP Review

Let’s Talk About Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP

The Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP are designed for one purpose: to deliver devastating accuracy and explosive expansion on small game. Marketed by Hornady as a reliable and affordable option for varmint hunters and recreational shooters, these .22 caliber bullets promise flat trajectories and consistent performance. The soft point design is intended to initiate rapid expansion upon impact, maximizing the bullet’s energy transfer into the target.

As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade in the field, I was initially drawn to these bullets by the need for a consistent and reliable option for controlling predator populations on a friend’s ranch. The ranch had a burgeoning coyote problem threatening livestock, and I was seeking a cost-effective, accurate projectile for my .223 rifle. My first impression was one of practical simplicity – the bullets are cleanly manufactured, with a visible lead soft point exposed at the tip.

Compared to other varmint bullets I’ve used, like the Nosler Ballistic Tip Varmint or the Sierra BlitzKing, the Hornady offering seemed less “high-tech” in appearance, but the price point made it a compelling option. I chose these bullets specifically because I wanted to evaluate their performance in a real-world hunting scenario without breaking the bank on premium options. My initial excitement was tempered by a slight reservation about whether the simpler design could deliver the same level of accuracy and terminal performance as the more expensive alternatives.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at a local shooting range to establish a baseline for accuracy before heading out into the field. I mounted a known-good scope on my AR-15 platform and set up targets at 100 yards. The weather was clear and mild, with a slight breeze that had minimal impact on bullet trajectory at that distance.

I quickly discovered that these bullets were impressively consistent straight from the box. My initial groupings were within 1.5 inches at 100 yards, which is more than adequate for varmint hunting. No significant issues arose during the first range session, and I found the bullets easy to load and chamber in my rifle.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next several months, I used the Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP extensively during predator control operations on the ranch. I exposed the ammunition to a range of conditions, from dry and dusty environments to damp mornings with heavy dew. These bullets proved to be extremely reliable, with no failures to feed or fire.

After several weeks of regular use, I found minimal signs of wear and tear on the remaining bullets in my supply. The brass jackets held up well, and the soft points remained intact despite being jostled around in my ammunition pouch. Compared to other budget varmint rounds I’ve used in the past, these Hornady bullets have held up remarkably well, consistently delivering the accuracy and terminal performance I needed.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP

Specifications

• Caliber: .22 Caliber (intended for use in .223 Remington/5.56mm NATO rifles). This is a common caliber for varmint hunting, offering a good balance of speed, accuracy, and manageable recoil.
• Bullet Weight: 55 grain. This is a standard bullet weight for .223 rounds, providing a good balance of velocity and ballistic coefficient.
• Bullet Type: Soft Point (SP). The soft lead core exposed at the tip is designed for rapid expansion upon impact, creating a larger wound cavity and quickly incapacitating the target.
• Diameter: 0.308 in. This is a typo in the original specs; it should be .224 in.
• G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.415. This is a respectable BC for a bullet of this type and weight, indicating it will maintain its velocity well over longer distances.
• Sectional Density: 0.226. Sectional density is a measure of a bullet’s penetration ability, and a value of 0.226 is adequate for varmint hunting.
• Core Material: Lead. Lead is a common core material due to its density and malleability, contributing to the bullet’s expansion characteristics.
• Bullet Quantity: 100. The package contains 100 individual bullets, making it suitable for reloading or stocking up for extended shooting sessions.
• Weight: 1060 grain. This is the total weight of the 100 bullets in the package.
• Quantity: 1. This indicates that the listing is for a single package of 100 bullets.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP excel at delivering consistent accuracy and explosive terminal performance on small to medium-sized varmints. They provide reliable expansion even at lower velocities, which makes them suitable for a variety of .223 rifles and barrel lengths. The bullets are easy to load and provide consistent groupings out to 200 yards, making them a great choice for hunting.

One weakness is that the soft point design can sometimes deform slightly during the feeding process, which could theoretically impact accuracy at longer ranges, though I haven’t observed this in my own testing. Overall, these bullets meet and even exceed expectations for a budget-friendly varmint round.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these bullets is straightforward and functional, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. The bullets are well-made, with a consistent shape and smooth jacket. The soft point is clearly defined and protected enough to prevent premature deformation.

There’s no learning curve associated with these bullets; they are simple to load and use, even for novice reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

Assuming proper storage conditions, these bullets should last for many years without any degradation. There is no specific maintenance required beyond standard reloading practices.

Accessories and Customization Options

These are bullets intended for reloading, so the primary customization option involves selecting the appropriate powder, primer, and case to achieve the desired velocity and accuracy. The bullets are compatible with a wide range of .223 reloading components from various brands.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP

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Who Should Buy Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP?

These bullets are perfect for varmint hunters, predator control specialists, and recreational shooters looking for a cost-effective and reliable option for their .223 rifles. They are also a great choice for reloaders who want to create their own custom varmint hunting loads. Anyone who needs to deal with pest control for small to medium sized animals will find these highly suitable.

These bullets might not be the best choice for competitive shooters who demand the absolute highest level of accuracy, or for hunters targeting larger game that requires deep penetration.

A good reloading manual and a reliable powder scale are must-have accessories for anyone planning to reload these bullets.

Conclusion on Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP

The Hornady Varmint Rifle Bullets, .22 Caliber, 55 grain, Soft Point SP are a solid choice for anyone seeking a budget-friendly varmint bullet that doesn’t compromise on performance. For predator control and recreational target shooting, these bullets deliver consistent accuracy and reliable terminal performance. Their value proposition is excellent, particularly when compared to more expensive varmint bullet options.

I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a cost-effective and effective varmint hunting solution. If you’re ready to start taking down those pesky varmints, give these Hornady bullets a try – you won’t be disappointed!