.20 VarTarg / .20 VT

.20 VarTarg (.20 VT): A Balanced Wildcat for Varmint and Target Shooting

The .20 VarTarg, commonly abbreviated as .20 VT, is a compact, highly efficient wildcat cartridge that has earned a strong reputation among varmint hunters and precision shooters. Developed by Todd Kindler, the name “VarTarg” reflects its dual-purpose design: “varmint” and “target.” By necking down the .221 Fireball case to .20 caliber, the .20 VarTarg delivers an exceptional combination of accuracy, manageable recoil, and impressive velocity in a small, easy-to-load package.

One of the key advantages of the .20 VarTarg is its excellent efficiency. With modest case capacity and a well-matched bore size, the cartridge achieves velocities exceeding 3,600 feet per second with lightweight bullets, all while using relatively small powder charges. This efficiency results in low recoil, excellent barrel life, and reduced shooter fatigue during extended varminting or target sessions. These traits make it particularly appealing to shooters who value comfort and consistency.

The .20 VarTarg’s design also makes it highly accurate. The parent .221 Fireball case provides an excellent foundation for consistent ignition and stable internal ballistics, while the smaller .20 caliber bore improves ballistic performance by reducing wind drift and flattening trajectories. The cartridge’s forgiving nature and precision-oriented design have made it a standout for handloaders looking to extract sub-MOA accuracy from their rifles.

Handloading for the .20 VarTarg is straightforward, as it requires only necking down .221 Fireball brass to .20 caliber dimensions. The abundance of quality brass, paired with the cartridge’s low powder requirements, makes it an economical and accessible option for reloaders. This ease of loading, combined with the cartridge’s consistent performance, has helped solidify its popularity in the small-caliber shooting community.

In the field, the .20 VarTarg excels as a varminting cartridge. Its flat trajectory, mild recoil, and explosive terminal performance make it highly effective for engaging small pests at medium to long ranges. Likewise, its ability to produce tight groups and predictable shot placement appeals to target shooters who want a dependable, precision-focused cartridge.

Overall, the .20 VarTarg stands as one of the most balanced and rewarding small-bore wildcats available. Its blend of efficiency, accuracy, and user-friendly handloading characteristics makes it an outstanding choice for those seeking a versatile cartridge that performs equally well at the bench and in the field.