Sourcing precise 22 ARC load data is crucial for maximizing the ballistic efficiency of this modern, heavy-bullet-capable cartridge.
This comprehensive guide compiles verified 22 ARC reloading data to help you safely develop the perfect combination for your AR-15 or bolt-action rifle.
Whether you are shooting 62-grain varmint projectiles or heavy 88-grain match bullets, always cross-reference these published metrics before starting your press.
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22 ARC Load Data
| Bullet | Bullet Weight | Powder | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Barrel Length / Firearm | Source |
| Hornady ELD-VT | 62 gr | CFE 223 | 27.5 gr | 29.8 gr (52,000 PSI) | 3,100 – 3,320 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 75 gr | LEVEREVOLUTION | 26.0 gr | 28.4 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,830 – 3,050 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 88 gr | CFE 223 | 23.5 gr | 25.8 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,540 – 2,740 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady V-MAX | 55 gr | BL-C(2) | 28.3 gr | 32.5 gr (62,000 PSI) | 3,100 – 3,400 fps | 24″ / Bolt Action | Hornady |
| Hornady A-Tip Match | 90 gr | Benchmark | 23.6 gr | 24.8 gr (62,000 PSI) | 2,700 – 2,800 fps | 24″ / Bolt Action | Hornady |
22 ARC Reloading Data
| Bullet | Bullet Weight | Powder | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Barrel Length / Firearm | Source |
| Hornady ELD-VT | 62 gr | Varget | 25.0 gr | 27.2 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,920 – 3,150 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 75 gr | CFE 223 | 25.5 gr | 28.0 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,810 – 3,040 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 88 gr | LEVEREVOLUTION | 23.0 gr | 25.4 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,520 – 2,730 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 75 gr | Varget | 23.5 gr | 25.8 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,680 – 2,890 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
| Hornady ELD Match | 88 gr | Varget | 23.2 gr | 25.6 gr (52,000 PSI) | 2,480 – 2,690 fps | 24″ / Universal Receiver | Hornady |
Understanding the 22 ARC Reloading Data
Reading 22 ARC reloading data requires understanding the distinct platform limits established for the cartridge. Because the 22 ARC is designed to function seamlessly in both AR-15 gas guns and traditional bolt-action rifles, published tables often split data between the two actions.Gas gun data operates at a stricter maximum pressure limit to protect AR-15 bolt lugs, while bolt-action data safely pushes the cartridge to higher pressures for increased velocity. Always identify which platform the published data was developed for before measuring your powder.
22 ARC Bullet Weight Reloading Data
The 22 ARC features an incredibly versatile bullet weight range, typically spanning from lightweight 50-grain varmint projectiles all the way up to 90-grain match bullets.The cartridge was engineered around a standard 1:7 twist rate, allowing it to easily stabilize heavy, high-ballistic-coefficient (BC) bullets like the 75-grain and 88-grain ELD Match that traditional .22-caliber rifles cannot stabilize.Lighter 62-grain options, such as the ELD-VT, remain highly popular for achieving extreme muzzle velocities.
22 ARC Powder Reloading Data
Powder selection for the 22 ARC relies heavily on medium-burn-rate propellants that optimize the cartridge’s short, fat case geometry.Spherical and extruded powders such as CFE 223, LEVEREVOLUTION, Varget, BL-C(2), and Benchmark consistently deliver excellent performance across the spectrum of bullet weights. These powders meter efficiently and provide the necessary burn characteristics to push heavy bullets without inducing dangerous pressure spikes.
22 ARC Bullet and Powder Combinations
Pairing the right bullet with the appropriate powder is vital for 22 ARC precision. Lighter 55-grain to 62-grain projectiles often achieve excellent velocities and tight groups with powders like Benchmark or Varget.When loading heavier 75-grain to 88-grain match bullets, reloaders often see the best velocity returns using CFE 223 and LEVEREVOLUTION, which generate consistent pressures behind the longer bearing surfaces of heavy projectiles.
22 ARC Velocity From Published Data
Published velocity figures for the 22 ARC vary widely based on bullet weight and firearm type. Lighter 53-grain to 62-grain bullets can achieve velocities ranging from 3,100 fps to well over 3,400 fps when loaded to bolt-action limits.When firing heavy 88-grain long-range bullets, velocities generally sit between 2,690 fps and 2,740 fps from a standard 24-inch test barrel.
22 ARC Reloading Data by Barrel Length
Most published load data for the 22 ARC is captured using 24-inch laboratory test barrels with a 1:7 twist.If you are shooting a standard AR-15 configuration with a 20-inch barrel, you can expect a velocity loss of approximately 80 to 120 fps below the published 24-inch metrics.A 22-inch barrel typically sees a more modest reduction of 30 to 50 fps compared to laboratory figures.
22 ARC Energy and Ballistics
The 22 ARC was meticulously designed to mimic the internal ballistic efficiency of the 6mm ARC and PPC cartridges. The cartridge’s short case length allows long, high-BC bullets to be seated out further without exceeding the 2.260-inch AR-15 magazine constraint. This design creates a shorter, fatter powder column that promotes highly consistent ignition, while the heavy bullets deliver downrange wind deflection resistance that drastically outperforms the standard .22-250 Remington.
22 ARC Hunting Applications
The 22 ARC is highly effective for both predator control and varmint hunting. Loads utilizing 62-grain ELD-VT projectiles deliver explosive fragmentation on prairie dogs and coyotes at extended distances. Furthermore, where legally permitted by local hunting regulations, heavier 75-grain to 80-grain controlled-expansion bullets provide enough energy and penetration to ethically harvest medium game such as pronghorn antelope and mule deer.
Manufacturer Data vs. Independent Testing
Manufacturer data from Hornady and Hodgdon is developed in climate-controlled laboratories using pressure-testing barrels, ensuring all loads remain within SAAMI safety specifications. While independent testing found online can highlight real-world velocities from off-the-shelf rifles, it lacks the scientific equipment required to detect dangerous pressure limits. Always prioritize official manufacturer load data as your primary baseline for load development.
22 ARC Pressure and Safety
The official SAAMI Maximum Average Pressure (MAP) for the 22 ARC in AR-15 gas-operated platforms is strictly set at 52,000 PSI to protect the bolt lugs and chamber geometry.However, dedicated bolt-action rifle data operates at elevated pressures between 60,000 and 62,000 PSI. You must never fire high-pressure bolt-action handloads through an AR-15, as doing so poses severe safety risks and can cause catastrophic firearm failure.
Best Sources for 22 ARC Reloading Data
The most reliable sources for 22 ARC data are the companies that engineered the cartridge and its propellants. The Hornady Reloading App and published manual updates offer the most robust, pressure-tested data specific to the 22 ARC. Additionally, the Hodgdon Reloading Data Center provides comprehensive digital tables covering their entire line of compatible spherical and extruded powders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find 22 ARC reloading data?
You can find official pressure-tested 22 ARC reloading data through the Hodgdon Reloading Data Center and the Hornady Reloading App.
What powders are listed in published 22 ARC data?
Commonly listed powders include CFE 223, LEVEREVOLUTION, Varget, Benchmark, and BL-C(2).
What bullet weights are covered in these tables?
Published load data exists for a wide variety of bullet weights ranging from 50 grains up to 90 grains, with 62 gr, 75 gr, and 88 gr being heavily featured.
Does barrel length affect 22 ARC velocity?
Yes, shooting from a 20-inch AR-15 barrel will typically result in a velocity loss of 80 to 120 fps compared to the standard 24-inch published test barrel data.
Can I use standard rifle primers for 22 ARC?
Yes, standard small rifle primers, such as the Federal 205, are used in manufacturer load data for the 22 ARC.
What is the difference between 22 ARC load data and reloading data?
There is no practical difference; both terms refer to the specific recipes of powder, primers, and bullet weights required to safely assemble the cartridge.
Why do published velocity figures differ between sources?
Velocity figures differ because test data is split between 52,000 PSI limits for gas guns and 62,000 PSI limits for bolt-action rifles, alongside variations in test barrel lengths.
Should I use the maximum published load?
You should never start with the maximum published load; always begin with the recommended starting load and carefully work up while watching for signs of overpressure.
Can I use data from one bullet manufacturer for another bullet?
You should only use data specifically developed for the exact bullet you are loading, as variations in bullet profile and bearing surface significantly alter chamber pressures.
Where should I verify 22 ARC load data before reloading?
You should strictly verify all load recipes against official, recently published manuals from bullet manufacturers or powder companies like Hornady and Hodgdon before reloading.