Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets Review

Let’s Dive into Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets represent a sweet spot in the world of .22 caliber projectiles, blending impressive accuracy with devastating terminal performance on small game and varmints. These bullets, manufactured by Sierra Bullets, are designed with a hollow point boat tail (HPBT) configuration that’s optimized for rapid expansion and consistent flight. This combination makes them a favorite among hunters and precision shooters alike.

I was on the hunt for a .22 caliber bullet that could deliver both accuracy for longer-range varmint hunting and reliable expansion for humane kills. I wanted to step up my game in terms of consistent performance, and the reputation of Sierra Bullets made these a natural starting point for my search.

Upon unboxing the Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets, the immediate impression was one of quality and precision. The bullets were uniform in shape and size, with a clearly defined hollow point and a smooth, consistent boat tail. They felt substantial, indicating a robust copper jacket.

Compared to Hornady V-MAX and Nosler Ballistic Tip bullets, the Sierra GameKings seemed to prioritize a balance of accuracy and controlled expansion, versus pure velocity and fragmentation. The Hornady V-MAX are great for explosive results, while the Nosler Ballistic Tip offers a polymer tip for improved ballistics, but I was looking for something with a bit more controlled expansion, which the Sierra seemed to promise. Ultimately, I chose the Sierra Bullets because of their reputation for consistent performance and their focus on delivering both accuracy and reliable expansion in the field.

I was excited to test these bullets and see if they lived up to their reputation. My initial impression was that they represented a solid choice for my needs, offering a good balance of accuracy, expansion, and overall quality.


Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets at my local shooting range, as well as during a prairie dog hunting trip in Wyoming. The range provided a controlled environment to assess accuracy and consistency, while the prairie dog hunt allowed me to evaluate their performance on live targets in real-world conditions. I chronographed the rounds from my .223 AR-15.

These bullets performed admirably in both dry and slightly windy conditions, showing consistent accuracy even with a moderate crosswind. Their performance was exceptional. Recoil was minimal, allowing for quick follow-up shots.

The Sierra GameKings were incredibly easy to load and use. I did not need to make any adjustments to my rifle’s setup. After the first few shots, I was consistently hitting sub-MOA groups at 100 yards.

The only surprise was just how devastating these bullets were on prairie dogs, exceeding my expectations.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets have consistently performed as expected. They have proven to be reliable and accurate across a range of conditions. I have fired hundreds of rounds through my rifle, and the bullets have shown no signs of degradation in performance.

The bullets have held up well, showing no signs of premature wear or damage. The copper jackets have remained intact, even after repeated use.

These bullets require minimal maintenance; I simply ensure that my rifle is clean and properly lubricated.

Compared to my previous experience with cheaper, bulk .22 caliber bullets, the Sierra GameKings are a significant step up in terms of accuracy and terminal performance. These bullets deliver consistent results that surpass what I was previously achieving.

Breaking Down the Features of Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets

Specifications

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets boast several key specifications that contribute to their exceptional performance. These include:

  • Bullet Type: Boat Tail Hollow Point (BTHP), Hollow Point (HP). The hollow point design ensures rapid expansion upon impact, while the boat tail enhances ballistic efficiency and reduces drag.
  • Bullet Weight: 55 grain. The 55-grain weight is a popular choice for .22 caliber rifles, offering a good balance of velocity and stability.
  • Projectile Caliber: .22 Caliber. This standard caliber is compatible with a wide range of .22 centerfire rifles.
  • Sectional Density: 0.157. The sectional density contributes to the bullet’s penetration capabilities.
  • Bullet Quantity: 100 Bullet. Sold in boxes of 100, allowing for an ample supply for various shooting activities.
  • Country of Origin: USA. Manufactured in the USA, ensuring high-quality standards and consistent performance.
  • Fabric/Material: Copper. The copper jacket provides durability and aids in consistent expansion.

These specifications are essential for achieving consistent accuracy and terminal performance. The hollow point design ensures rapid expansion, while the boat tail reduces drag and improves flight stability.

Performance & Functionality

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets excel in their primary function: delivering accurate and lethal shots on varmints and small game. The bullets demonstrate consistent accuracy at various distances. They are also reliable in terms of feeding and chambering.

The primary strength lies in their ability to expand rapidly and consistently upon impact. This ensures humane kills and minimizes the risk of wounding animals. A potential weakness might be that in very dense brush, the hollow point could become obstructed, slightly impacting expansion.

These bullets meet and exceed expectations, delivering on their promise of accuracy and lethal terminal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets is optimized for both ballistic efficiency and terminal performance. The bullets are well-balanced and consistent in shape.

The bullets are easy to load and handle, with no sharp edges or imperfections. There is no learning curve involved in using these bullets.

Durability & Maintenance

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets are designed for single use. They do not require any specific maintenance.

Given their construction and intended use, these bullets are expected to last through numerous shooting sessions. They are built to withstand the rigors of high-velocity impacts and deliver consistent performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets do not come with any accessories, as they are projectiles intended to be loaded into cartridges. However, these bullets can be used with a variety of reloading equipment and components, such as different powders, primers, and cases, to customize the performance of the ammunition.

The bullets are compatible with standard .22 caliber reloading equipment and can be used in a wide range of .22 centerfire rifles. They can be combined with various powders and primers to achieve different velocities and performance characteristics.

Pros and Cons of Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets

Pros

  • Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups in compatible rifles, making them ideal for precision shooting and varmint hunting.
  • Rapid Expansion: The hollow point design ensures quick and reliable expansion upon impact, resulting in humane kills on small game and varmints.
  • High-Quality Construction: Made with premium materials and manufactured in the USA, ensuring consistent performance and reliability.
  • Boat Tail Design: Enhances ballistic efficiency and reduces drag, improving flight stability and accuracy at longer ranges.
  • Versatile Application: Suitable for a wide range of .22 centerfire rifles and ideal for both target shooting and hunting applications.

Cons

  • May not be optimal for very dense brush due to potential hollow point obstruction.
  • Relatively higher cost compared to bulk FMJ bullets.


Who Should Buy Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets?

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets are perfect for hunters who demand both accuracy and terminal performance on small game and varmints. They are also ideal for competitive shooters looking for consistent and reliable ammunition.

These bullets may not be the best choice for high-volume target shooters who are primarily concerned with cost. They would also not be optimal for anyone requiring deep penetration, such as for larger game.

A good chronograph is recommended for load development.

Conclusion on Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets

The Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets are a top-tier choice for anyone seeking accuracy and reliable terminal performance in their .22 centerfire rifle. Their exceptional design and high-quality construction make them a standout product.

At $29.89 for 100 bullets, the price is justified by the consistent performance and exceptional quality. These bullets deliver value that far outweighs their cost.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Sierra Bullets .22 Caliber 55 Grain HPBT GameKing Rifle Bullets to anyone looking to elevate their shooting game. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a precision shooter, these bullets will deliver consistent and reliable results. Invest in a box today and experience the Sierra difference for yourself!

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