.22 Hornet (Load Development)

.22 Hornet (Load Development)

Developing reliable and accurate loads for the .22 Hornet is a nuanced process that emphasizes small adjustments and thoughtful component selection. Unlike larger bottleneck rifle cartridges, the Hornet operates on the margins—minor variations in powder charge, primer type, or seating depth can yield substantial changes in both pressure and performance. This makes it a cartridge that rewards careful tracking and slow, methodical testing.

Optimal load development for the .22 Hornet generally starts with bullets in the 35–45 grain range, where powder capacity, velocity, and terminal performance align well. Lighter bullets often allow for higher velocities with flatter trajectories, while slightly heavier projectiles can yield tighter groups, especially in rifles with slower twist rates designed around older bullet profiles.

Powder choice is critical. Lil’Gun is a standout performer in many rifles, offering higher velocities at lower pressures, though others like H-110, IMR 4227, and Accurate 1680 have long-standing followings. It’s not uncommon for handloaders to test several of these side by side, using small ladder steps (0.1 grain increments) to find an ideal velocity and group consistency node.

Case preparation also plays a major role. The Hornet’s brass is relatively thin and more prone to neck tension variations. Proper resizing, chamfering, and consistent primer seating can improve ignition consistency. Annealing cases after a few firings is also a common step to preserve neck tension uniformity and prevent split cases.

Seating depth and bullet jump should not be overlooked. While some Hornet chambers are generous in freebore, best accuracy is usually achieved when bullets are seated to just short of the lands. Experimenting with changes in 0.005" increments often reveals a sweet spot, especially when matched with uniform brass and carefully weighed powder charges.

Primers can be another variable. Small rifle primers are standard, but magnum variants are sometimes favored when using slower-burning powders or in colder climates. As always, pressure signs must be monitored closely—especially in rifles with less robust actions, such as vintage break-open or bolt designs.

In short, load development for the .22 Hornet is about refinement. It doesn’t take much to push this small cartridge into unpredictable behavior—but in the hands of a careful handloader, it becomes a surgical instrument for small game, varmints, or tight-group bench work. Testing, logging, and patience are essential in coaxing the best from the Hornet.

Source: Combined load test data from multiple manuals and internal Handloader evaluations.