Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point Review

Let’s Talk About Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point

The Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point are a classic choice for varmint hunters and target shooters alike, offering a blend of accuracy, explosive expansion, and a streamlined design. Hornady has been a trusted name in ammunition components for decades, and these bullets represent their commitment to quality and performance in the field. This particular offering, the 55-grain spire point in .224 caliber, is a popular configuration known for its flat trajectory and devastating terminal effects on small game.

My search for the perfect .22 caliber varmint bullet led me to the Hornady offering, as I needed reliable accuracy for consistent hits on prairie dogs at varying ranges. I wanted a bullet that would not only provide a flat trajectory but also deliver rapid expansion upon impact for humane and effective kills. After researching various options, the reputation of Hornady and the proven performance of their spire point design made these bullets an easy choice.

Upon opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the consistent quality of the bullets. Each bullet was uniform in shape and size, reflecting Hornady’s dedication to precision manufacturing. The lead core was neatly encased within the copper jacket, exhibiting a clean and professional appearance. I appreciated the organized packaging, which ensured the bullets remained protected during shipping and storage.

Compared to other .22 caliber bullets I’ve used, such as the CCI Mini-Mag and Winchester Varmint HE, the Hornady bullets felt more refined in their construction. While the CCI and Winchester options are certainly capable performers, they often lack the match-grade consistency that the Hornady bullets seem to offer. I chose Hornady over the others based on my need for maximum accuracy and the ability to handload ammunition tailored to my specific rifle.

My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to test these bullets and see if they lived up to the Hornady reputation. I had high expectations for their accuracy and terminal performance, and I felt confident that they would be a valuable addition to my varmint hunting setup.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point was at a prairie dog town in central Wyoming. The conditions were typical for that region, with a mix of sun and wind, and temperatures ranging from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. I was shooting from a bench rest with my custom-built .223 AR-15, using a 20x scope.

The Hornady bullets performed exceptionally well in these conditions, delivering consistent and accurate shots. I was able to achieve sub-MOA groups at 100 yards, and I consistently hit prairie dogs out to 300 yards with good shot placement. The wind was a factor, but the flat trajectory of the bullets helped to minimize its impact.

The bullets were easy to load and seat in my reloading press. I had no issues with inconsistent neck tension or bullet runout. I did not encounter any feeding or extraction problems during live fire.

My first experience with these bullets exceeded my expectations. The accuracy and terminal performance were impressive, and I was confident that I had made the right choice.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point have proven to be incredibly reliable and consistent. I’ve fired hundreds of rounds through my rifle, and I’ve yet to experience any malfunctions or performance issues. The bullets continue to group tightly, and their terminal performance remains impressive.

The bullets themselves have shown no signs of degradation or wear. I store my ammunition in airtight containers, and the bullets have maintained their original appearance and dimensions. I have seen zero issues with corrosion or jacket separation.

The cleaning and maintenance of my rifle have not been affected by the use of these bullets. I clean my rifle after each range session, and I’ve noticed no excessive fouling or copper buildup. The bullets are relatively clean-burning, contributing to longer periods between thorough cleanings.

These bullets have significantly outperformed my previous experiences with other .22 caliber varmint bullets. The Hornady bullets offer a level of accuracy and reliability that I had not previously experienced, solidifying their place as my go-to varmint bullet.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point

Specifications

The Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance:

• Bullet Type: Spire Point (SP) – The spire point design provides a high ballistic coefficient, resulting in a flatter trajectory and increased downrange energy.
• Bullet Weight: 55 grain – This weight is ideal for .223 Remington and other .22 caliber cartridges, offering a good balance of velocity and stability.
• Projectile Caliber: .22 Caliber, .224 Caliber – This is the standard diameter for .22 caliber rifles, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of firearms.
• Sectional Density: 0.157 – This measurement indicates the bullet’s penetration potential, contributing to its effectiveness on varmints.
• Bullet Quantity: 100 Bullet – The standard packaging contains 100 bullets, providing ample supply for reloading and practice.
• Fabric/Material: Copper – The copper jacket ensures smooth feeding and reliable expansion.

These specifications are crucial for achieving optimal performance. The spire point and 55-grain weight work together to provide a flat trajectory and minimal wind drift. The copper jacket and sectional density contribute to controlled expansion and effective terminal performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point excels in its primary function: delivering accurate and devastating shots on varmints.

Its accuracy is top-notch, consistently producing sub-MOA groups in my rifle when handloaded properly. The bullets are reliable, feeding smoothly and exhibiting consistent velocity.

The explosive expansion ensures humane and effective kills on small game. The spire point design enhances aerodynamic efficiency for long-range accuracy.

A potential weakness may be in heavier brush, where the spire point’s exposed lead tip could be slightly more prone to deformation than a polymer-tipped bullet. However, in open terrain, its performance is outstanding. The bullets have consistently exceeded my expectations for accuracy and terminal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

These bullets feature a classic spire point design with a lead core and a copper jacket. The build quality is excellent, reflecting Hornady’s commitment to precision manufacturing. The bullets are uniform in shape and size, ensuring consistent performance.

Their weight and profile make them easy to handle during the reloading process. There is no learning curve associated with using these bullets, and they are compatible with standard reloading equipment.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point is excellent. When stored properly, these bullets will last for years without degradation.

The copper jacket protects the lead core from oxidation and corrosion, ensuring long-term stability. The bullets require no special maintenance or care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point are primarily components for reloading, meaning there are no included accessories beyond the bullets themselves.

However, they can be customized through various reloading techniques, such as adjusting powder charge, seating depth, and neck tension. The bullets are compatible with a wide range of .22 caliber reloading dies and equipment from various brands. They also work well with different powder types depending on the desired velocity and performance characteristics.

Pros and Cons of Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point

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Who Should Buy Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point?

The Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point are perfect for:

• Varmint hunters who demand accuracy and terminal performance.
• Reloaders seeking high-quality components for custom ammunition.
• Target shooters looking for consistent results at the range.

These bullets may not be ideal for:

• Hunters who primarily hunt in dense brush or heavily wooded areas.
• Shooters who do not reload their own ammunition.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• High-quality reloading dies and equipment.
• A chronograph for monitoring velocity and consistency.
• A good reloading manual for safe and accurate load data.

Conclusion on Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point

In summary, the Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point are an excellent choice for varmint hunters and target shooters who prioritize accuracy, terminal performance, and consistent quality. The price is justified by the superior performance and reliability they offer.

I would highly recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a top-tier .22 caliber varmint bullet. These bullets have elevated my varmint hunting game, and I am confident that they will do the same for others.

If you’re serious about varmint hunting and value consistent performance, invest in the Hornady Traditional Varmint Rifle Bullets, 22 Caliber, .224 55 Grain, Spire Point. You won’t be disappointed.