Let’s Dive into Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet
The Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet is Hornady’s offering to the lead-free hunting bullet market, specifically tailored for the .224 Valkyrie cartridge. It promises exceptional accuracy, deep penetration, and high weight retention, all while being California compatible.
I needed a reliable, lead-free option for hunting medium-sized game in areas with environmental restrictions, and the Hornady CX seemed like a promising candidate. My initial impression upon receiving these bullets was positive; the sleek profile and Heat Shield Tip hinted at excellent ballistic performance.
Compared to traditional lead-core bullets like the Nosler Ballistic Tip or even other monolithic bullets from Barnes, the Hornady CX aims to bridge the gap between terminal performance and long-range accuracy. I chose the CX for its reputation for consistent expansion and deeper penetration compared to other lead-free options. My first impression was one of cautious optimism, eager to see if the bullet lived up to the hype surrounding its monolithic construction and proprietary tip design.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at a local shooting range, zeroing my .224 Valkyrie AR-15 at 100 yards. The weather was calm and clear, providing ideal conditions for accuracy testing.
The Hornady CX bullets proved to be exceptionally consistent, producing tight groupings right out of the gate. I found the bullet easy to load and seat, with consistent neck tension. There were no initial issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a whitetail deer hunt and multiple range sessions, the Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet has proven to be a reliable performer. I’ve seen no signs of degradation or changes in performance.
The bullets exhibited excellent terminal performance on a medium-sized whitetail deer, resulting in a clean and ethical kill. Cleaning my rifle after shooting the CX bullets was noticeably easier compared to lead-core ammunition; copper fouling was minimal. It significantly outperformed my previous lead-core hunting rounds in terms of reduced fouling and consistent accuracy across multiple range sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet
Specifications
- Caliber: .224 Valkyrie – Designed specifically for this modern, flat-shooting cartridge.
- Bullet Weight: 70 grain – A heavier bullet weight for improved ballistic coefficient and energy retention.
- Projectile Caliber: .224 Caliber – Standard diameter for .224 Valkyrie.
- Monolithic Copper Alloy Construction: One-piece construction ensures the bullet won’t separate on impact, leading to consistent, deep penetration.
- Heat Shield Tip: Made from heat-resistant polymer to maintain a high ballistic coefficient (BC) throughout the bullet’s flight path.
- Optimized Groove Geometry: Grooves are designed to reduce bearing surface and fouling while maximizing aerodynamic performance.
These specifications are crucial because they contribute to the bullet’s overall performance in terms of accuracy, penetration, and terminal ballistics. The monolithic construction is key for ethical hunting, while the Heat Shield Tip ensures consistent long-range performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet excels in accuracy, producing sub-MOA groups in my rifle with proper load development. It offers reliable expansion and deep penetration on game animals.
The bullet’s primary strength lies in its consistent terminal performance, providing a reliable and ethical hunting experience. A potential weakness could be its higher cost compared to traditional lead-core bullets. The bullet definitely meets and exceeds my expectations for a lead-free hunting bullet, offering a balance of accuracy, penetration, and ethical performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with a clean and consistent finish. The bullet’s weight and profile are well-suited for the .224 Valkyrie cartridge.
The aerodynamic design and Heat Shield Tip contribute to its flat trajectory and resistance to wind drift. There is no learning curve associated with using this bullet; it loads and shoots just like any other high-quality rifle projectile.
Durability & Maintenance
The monolithic copper alloy construction should ensure a long lifespan, with minimal risk of fragmentation or core-jacket separation.
The reduced copper fouling makes cleaning and maintenance significantly easier compared to lead-core bullets.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included as the Hornady CX is just the bullet itself. Reloading dies and other reloading components are necessary for loading this bullet.
It is compatible with any .224 Valkyrie rifle and standard reloading equipment.
Pros and Cons of Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently produces sub-MOA groups.
- Deep Penetration: Monolithic construction ensures penetration even on large game.
- High Weight Retention: Maintains nearly 95% of its weight after impact.
- Lead-Free & California Compatible: Suitable for hunting in environmentally sensitive areas.
- Consistent Terminal Performance: Reliable expansion for ethical kills.
Cons
- Higher Cost: More expensive than traditional lead-core bullets.
- Can be finicky to load: Requires careful attention to seating depth and powder charge for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet?
The Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet is perfect for ethical hunters seeking a reliable and accurate lead-free option for medium-sized game. This also includes anyone living in areas with lead restrictions.
Those on a tight budget or who primarily shoot at paper targets may find the higher cost prohibitive and should explore other cheaper options.
A chronograph is a must-have accessory for load development, ensuring consistent velocities and optimal performance.
Conclusion on Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet
The Hornady CX 22/.224 70 Grain Bullet is a top-tier lead-free hunting bullet that delivers exceptional accuracy, deep penetration, and consistent terminal performance. The price is justified by its superior performance and ethical hunting capabilities.
I would highly recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable and environmentally responsible option for hunting medium-sized game with the .224 Valkyrie. Upgrade your hunting experience with the Hornady CX and experience the difference a premium, lead-free bullet can make.