.204 Ruger (Barnes Data - 2009)

.204 Ruger: Precision and Performance with Barnes Projectiles

The .204 Ruger has earned a strong following since its 2004 introduction, celebrated for its blazing velocities, low recoil, and exceptional varminting capabilities. When paired with Barnes bullets, the cartridge takes on an added dimension of performance, combining speed with controlled expansion and consistent accuracy. This makes it an outstanding choice for shooters who demand reliable results in both the field and at the bench.

Barnes projectiles are renowned for their advanced construction and terminal performance. When loaded in the .204 Ruger, they offer excellent accuracy paired with explosive on-target effects, making them ideal for prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and coyotes. Their consistent expansion and high weight retention provide shooters with dependable performance at both close and extended ranges, ensuring ethical, effective hits on small to medium-sized game.

In terms of ballistics, the .204 Ruger with Barnes bullets maintains the cartridge’s signature flat trajectory and minimal wind drift. Even with projectiles in the 32- to 40-grain range, velocities remain impressive—often exceeding 3,900 feet per second—delivering precise shot placement at distances where other small-bore cartridges begin to lose energy and stability. These qualities make the combination especially appealing to varmint hunters working in wide-open terrain.

For handloaders, Barnes data provides a solid foundation for developing precision loads tailored to their rifles. Barnes bullets, known for their uniformity and quality control, make it easier to achieve consistent results, while the .204 Ruger’s efficient case design ensures predictable pressures and excellent barrel life. With proper case preparation and load tuning, shooters can extract sub-MOA accuracy from this pairing with relative ease.

In the field, this combination offers explosive terminal effects, making it particularly effective for high-volume varmint shooting. At the same time, the low recoil and clean-burning load options allow for extended shooting sessions without excessive barrel fouling or shooter fatigue, further cementing the .204 Ruger’s reputation as a practical and enjoyable cartridge to shoot.

Overall, the .204 Ruger paired with Barnes bullets provides hunters and precision shooters with an optimized setup that balances speed, accuracy, and devastating terminal performance. It’s a natural choice for those who want to maximize the cartridge’s potential with high-quality projectiles designed for both consistency and impact.

Source: Wolfe Publishing