.22 Hornet (Ramshot Data Edition 4.5 - 2011)

.22 Hornet (Ramshot Data Edition 4.5)

Ramshot’s Load Guide Edition 4.5 provides a framework of tested powder and bullet combinations for various cartridges, including the .22 Hornet in some of the general small-caliber sections. Though the Hornet is not always a headline cartridge in Ramshot’s lineup, the data guide is useful for reloaders looking to adapt Ramshot powders into Hornet load development.

In the Ramshot guide, the emphasis is placed on careful progression from minimum to maximum charges, and strong warnings about exceeding the published maximums. The guide also underscores that component variations, barrel differences, and reloading technique will influence results, and that all loads should be validated with chronographs and pressure checks.

For the .22 Hornet, use of Ramshot powders typically involves selecting lighter bullets—often in the 35- to 45-grain range—and pairing them with powders suitable for small capacity cases in small calibers. Because Hornet cases are more sensitive to pressure swings, the guide’s recommendations must be used conservatively. The published data often serves as a ceiling rather than a recommended working load for delicate or vintage Hornet rifles.

Handloaders adapting the Ramshot data to the Hornet commonly begin at or below the starting charges listed, advance in small increments (around 2 % steps or less), and carefully monitor velocity changes, primer appearance, and case condition. Because Hornet rifles often have shallower throats or different freebore than test barrels, many reloaders back off from “maximum” Ramshot entries to maintain reliability and safety.

In practice, combinations using Ramshot powders such as Enforcer or Hunter in conservative charges can yield solid performance when loaded with match-grade bullets in Hornet rifles. Some experimental loads reported by shooters using Ramshot Enforcer in .22 Hornet configurations have shown promising precision when kept within safe pressure margins.

Overall, while the Ramshot 4.5 data is not as plentiful for the .22 Hornet as it is for more common cartridges, the guide offers a valuable reference point for handloaders comfortable with adapting load data. Use it as part of a cautious load development plan, not as a blueprint for maximum performance without individual validation.

Source: Ramshot Load Guide Edition 4.5 & adapted user reports