.22 Hornet (Winchester Pistol Data)

.22 Hornet (Hornady Handgun Data)

The .22 Hornet, though originally developed as a small game and varmint rifle cartridge, has found niche popularity in handguns—particularly single-shot pistols such as the Thompson/Center Contender. Hornady published handgun-specific reloading data for the .22 Hornet to accommodate these platforms, which tend to feature barrels in the 10-inch range.

This handgun data shows a notable decrease in velocity compared to rifle platforms, averaging roughly 300–400 feet per second slower depending on bullet weight and powder selection. For example, a 35 grain V-MAX bullet achieves around 2,400 fps in a 10" barrel when loaded with H110, while the same bullet in a rifle might exceed 2,800 fps. Despite the lower velocities, accuracy remains impressive, and recoil is minimal.

Handgun shooters favoring the .22 Hornet appreciate its combination of light recoil, moderate report, and capability for small game or target use. However, handloaders must carefully adjust powder charges due to the reduced barrel length and increased sensitivity to pressure changes in pistol-length barrels.

Hornady’s published data includes a range of bullet options from 35 to 45 grains, using powders such as H110, Lil’Gun, and 2400. All data was developed using a 10-inch Contender barrel with small rifle primers, and emphasizes caution due to the cartridge’s relatively small case capacity and tendency to spike pressures rapidly if overloaded.

Though less common today, the .22 Hornet in a handgun remains a capable and enjoyable option for reloaders seeking precision and performance in a compact, low-recoil package.