Reliable 22 K Hornet reloading data highlights the performance benefits of this classic wildcat cartridge. Created by Kilbourn, the .22 K-Hornet is derived from the standard .22 Hornet by fireforming the case to feature a sharper shoulder and a straighter body. This modification increases powder capacity, extends brass life by eliminating excessive case stretching, and boosts muzzle velocities by roughly 100 to 200 fps over the standard parent cartridge. Published laboratory data typically covers projectile weights ranging from 35 grains up to 50 grains, detailing starting and maximum powder charges, muzzle velocities, chamber pressures up to roughly 40,000 to 45,000 CUP, cartridge overall length, and test barrel specifications.
22 K Hornet Reloading Data Overview
| Bullet Style | Bullet Weight | Powder | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Barrel Length / Firearm | Source |
| Hornady V-Max | 35 gr | Hodgdon Lil’Gun | 12.5 gr | 14.0 gr | 3,150 to 3,350 fps | 24″ / Custom Bolt Action | Hodgdon / Hornady |
| Nosler Ballistic Tip | 40 gr | Hodgdon H-4227 | 10.5 gr | 12.0 gr | 2,750 to 2,950 fps | 24″ / Test Barrel | Hodgdon / Nosler |
| Barnes XBT | 45 gr | Hodgdon Lil’Gun | 11.5 gr | 13.0 gr | 2,770 to 2,896 fps | 24″ / Custom Bolt Action | Hodgdon / Barnes |
| Speer SP | 45 gr | Hodgdon H-110 | 10.8 gr | 12.2 gr | 2,680 to 2,840 fps | 24″ / Test Barrel | Speer / Hodgdon |
| Sierra BlitzKing | 50 gr | Hodgdon Lil’Gun | 10.5 gr | 11.8 gr | 2,670 to 2,826 fps | 24″ / Test Barrel | Sierra / Hodgdon |
Understanding The 22 K Hornet Reloading Data
Working up 22 K Hornet load data requires careful evaluation because the wildcat design alters pressure characteristics compared to the factory parent case:
- Starting Load: The conservative minimum charge weight recommended by testing laboratories to ensure clean propellant ignition and consistent pressure development.
- Published Maximum Load: The absolute peak pressure threshold established for modern robust actions. Exceeding this value can cause sticky bolt lift or primer pocket enlargement.
- Velocity: Quantified in feet per second at the muzzle, reflecting the efficiency of the sharp shoulder in driving light varmint bullets at high speeds.
- Case Forming Advantage:Unlike the standard .22 Hornet which headspaces on a sloping rim, the K-Hornet forms a distinct shoulder that headspaces cleanly, drastically reducing case trimming frequency and extending brass longevity.
22 K Hornet Bullet Weight Options
Published load data spans lightweight and medium projectile weights tailored for precision varmint hunting and pest control:
- 30 to 35 Grain: Ultra-fast polymer-tipped options designed for flat trajectories, delivering explosive terminal performance on small varmints at extended distances.
- 40 Grain: A versatile balanced choice that maintains high retained energy and wind resistance better than ultra-light pills.
- 45 to 50 Grain: Heavier options (such as the Speer SP or Sierra BlitzKing) providing deeper penetration for larger pests or predators while utilizing the increased powder capacity of the improved case.
22 K Hornet Powder Reloading Data
Selecting the correct propellant involves matching fast-burning rifle and heavy pistol powders that maximize energy transfer within the compact case:
| Powder | Bullet | Bullet Weight | Published Starting Load | Published Maximum Load | Published Velocity | Source |
| Hodgdon Lil’Gun | Hornady V-Max | 35 gr | 12.5 gr | 14.0 gr | 3,150 to 3,350 fps | Hodgdon |
| Hodgdon H-4227 | Nosler Ballistic Tip | 40 gr | 10.5 gr | 12.0 gr | 2,750 to 2,950 fps | Hodgdon |
| Hodgdon Lil’Gun | Barnes XBT | 45 gr | 11.5 gr | 13.0 gr | 2,770 to 2,896 fps | Hodgdon |
| Hodgdon H-110 | Speer SP | 45 gr | 10.8 gr | 12.2 gr | 2,680 to 2,840 fps | Hodgdon |
| Hodgdon Lil’Gun | Sierra BlitzKing | 50 gr | 10.5 gr | 11.8 gr | 2,670 to 2,826 fps | Hodgdon |
Component And Assembly Best Practices
Because the 22 K Hornet is a custom wildcat conversion, specific assembly rules ensure optimal performance:
- Fireforming Process: Standard factory .22 Hornet rounds can be safely fired in a K-Hornet chamber to form the brass, or cases can be loaded with a starting charge of fast powder and a light bullet.
- Cartridge Overall Length (COL):Standard specifications typically target an overall length between 1.725 inches and 1.900 inches depending on the specific bullet ogive and throat dimensions of your custom reamer.
- Primer Selection: Small rifle primers (SRI) are standard. Ensure consistent seating depth to prevent high primers that can bind the bolt.
Velocity And Barrel Length Considerations
Manufacturer velocity figures are typically generated using test barrels measuring 24 inches in length. Real-world custom rifles or converted martini or break-action platforms featuring shorter 20-inch or 22-inch tubes will experience slight velocity reductions. Handloaders should always verify speeds with a physical chronograph.
Pressure And Safety
The 22 K Hornet operates at higher pressures than the standard parent cartridge because of its efficient chamber design. Strict safety protocols apply:
- Never use maximum standard .22 Hornet data as a starting point without verifying safety margins for the improved case capacity.
- Inspect brass regularly for signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers or case head separation.
- Reduce charges by 10 percent when changing component lots or switching brass brands.
Best Sources For 22 K Hornet Data
The top references for reliable data include:
- Hodgdon Online Reloading Center:Features specialized data listings covering propellants like Lil’Gun, H-4227, and H-110.
- Sierra Bullets Reloading Manual: Provides verified accuracy nodes for lightweight .224-inch projectile weights.
- Custom Wildcat Reloading Guides: Offers historical and pressure-tested insights compiled by dedicated wildcat shooters and custom gunsmiths.
Common 22 K Hornet Reloading Questions
Where can I find 22 K Hornet reloading data?
Reliable data can be found in select online databases like Hodgdon, custom wildcat reloading manuals, and specialty shooting references.
Can I fire standard .22 Hornet ammo in a K-Hornet chamber?
Yes. Standard factory .22 Hornet ammunition can be safely fired in a .22 K-Hornet chamber, which fireforms the brass case to the improved K-Hornet dimensions simultaneously.
What are the best powders for 22 K Hornet?
Top-performing propellants include Hodgdon Lil’Gun, H-4227, and H-110 / Winchester 296, which provide optimal velocity and burn efficiency.
What bullet weights work best?
Projectiles weighing between 35 grains and 45 grains offer the best balance of flat trajectory and terminal velocity for varmint hunting.
Do I need special dies to reload K-Hornet?
Yes. You must use dedicated .22 K-Hornet sizing and seating dies to match the sharp shoulder angle created during the fireforming process.