.22LR - Other Options for the rifle handloader

[StrawHat]

I load and shoot a 22 Hornet and use it more than I ever used my 22 LR. I can reload it for very little money and duplicate loads for the 22LR or go a bit more than current 22 Hornet loads.

For quiet, stay on the low end of things.

Another cartridge to consider is the 22 Cooper. Basically, a centerfire version of the 22 Magnum.

Kevin

 

[DeoreDX]

Someone else mentioned an air rifle and I would second that recommendation. My 22 Cal will effectively dispatch a squirell or small rabbit at 30-40 yards with very little report.

 

[CapnMac]

Another option might be the .218bee.
An odd duck, a necked-down .32-10
Contender barrels are probably easiest to find today; but some interesting rifles will turn up in the used rack in the caliber, too.

And, of course, the ultimate answer to "not startle the neighbors" is a can--but, that's a different can of worms.

 

[CB900F]

SwaneeSR;

Another vote here for the .22 Hornet. Since you handload, take a look at the Hornady #9 manual which covers both the standard .22 Hornet and the K-Hornet. The K is nothing more than a chamber ream of a standard chamber & still allows you to use factory Hornet ammo. But once that ammo is shot, the case will then be fire-formed to the K-Hornet chamber. Which then allows you to greatly vary what the cartridge can do according to the specific need of a wide variety of situations.

To my mind, it's a win-win. My personal choice of platform would be the CZ527 in Hornet, & then make the decision to go wildcatting or not.

900F

 

[Vern Humphrey]

I have developed loads for my .22 Hornet.

I use an NEI flat-base .224 bullet and team that with Pat Marlins Checkmaker, which makes gas checks from coke cans. Lubed with liquid Alox and loaded ahead of 8 grains of Hodgdon's Li'l Gun it edges out the .22 Mag. Loaded ahead of 2.7 grains of Bullseye it just about duplicates Standard Velocity .22 LR.

 

[SwaneeSR]

I will look for a .22 Hornet.


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