.204 Ruger (X-Terminator Data - 2013)

.204 Ruger: High-Volume Efficiency with X-Terminator Powder

Since its introduction in 2004, the .204 Ruger has remained one of the most popular cartridges for varmint hunters and precision shooters who need speed, accuracy, and low recoil. When paired with Ramshot’s X-Terminator powder, it becomes an exceptionally efficient, clean-burning option designed for high-volume shooting and consistent long-range performance.

X-Terminator is a fine-grained spherical powder that offers excellent metering and predictable burn rates, making it well-suited for the .204 Ruger’s case design. This combination allows shooters to achieve impressive velocities across common bullet weights—often exceeding 4,000 feet per second with lightweight 32-grain projectiles—while maintaining consistent pressures and reliable accuracy. These qualities make X-Terminator an excellent choice for shooters who load large quantities of ammunition for extended varmint hunts or long bench sessions.

The powder’s clean-burning properties also help reduce fouling, which is especially valuable for the .204 Ruger in high-volume shooting scenarios where maintaining accuracy over hundreds of rounds is essential. This means less downtime for cleaning and more time engaging targets in the field or at the range.

Handloaders will appreciate X-Terminator’s ease of use, particularly its smooth metering through powder measures, which simplifies the process of loading consistent, repeatable rounds. Combined with the .204 Ruger’s inherently efficient case design, this makes load development straightforward and rewarding for shooters at all experience levels.

In practical applications, this pairing shines in open-country varminting. The combination of explosive terminal performance, flat trajectories, and reliable shot-to-shot consistency gives hunters the confidence to make precise, ethical shots at extended distances. It’s also a top performer at the bench, where its consistency translates into tight groupings and repeatable accuracy.

Overall, loading the .204 Ruger with X-Terminator powder creates a high-performing, efficient setup for hunters and precision shooters alike. It delivers the speed, reliability, and volume-friendly characteristics that make this cartridge a favorite for those who demand both performance and practicality.

Source: Wolfe Publishing