Thread: .22 hornet

Out of all the reloading books I have collected this original one I started with is used moretha most.
When using ADI powders I use the substitution chart to give me an idea where to start.
More important to me is the fact I can use slower than normal powders for lighter loads,
a point which seems never discussed although slower powders are safe with full cases and at lower pressure .

Originally Posted by Kelton

Afternoon all,

Who’s shooting or loading for a 22 hornet? If factory ammo what are you using is it even available?

If reloading what weights and powder?

Whats your use for the funny wee cartridge?

Is it much quieter that the .222 rem?

Thank you in advance

Greetings @Kelton and all,
To belatedly address your OP I loaded my .22 Hornet using Dupont IMR4227 and the Hornady 45 grain projectile back in thvery early 1980's. The rifle has had an extended period of safe curing but lately I have been thinking of getting it going again. The max loads in the Hodgdon data for IMR4227 has been reduced substantially over the years and Hodgdons Lil'gun has emerged as the go to powder for velocity in the Hornet. I used 10.5 grains of IMR4227 which at the time was a mid load but the max is now 9.8 grains although at lower pressure. I suspect that that the reduction is due to some of the weaker rifles chambered for the Hornet. You can look at the load data on the Hodgdons site.
Regards Grandpamac.

Opps , late , but here go's , Yes I reload for 22 hornet , have a CZ527 , load long so , cant use magazine , single load , use 40gr vmax bullet over a charge of 13.0gr of Lil'gun powder , pistol primer , and Lee crimp case to bullet , basically just under moa .

Same as Chris F above. Pre 64 mod 70 hornet. We brass, Lill Gun @ 13 gn with a 40 gn Nosler Vsrmagedon. Light crimp with Lee crimped. Size cases with Lee collet sizer. Hornet brass is super thin.

Lill G gives you 2800+ fps and great accuracy.



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Reloaded one years ago for mate who used it for home kill.
Had to measure powder carefully as such a small charge and easy to overdo.
Nephew is using my Dads Brno on deer now.
I think Dad bought it new 1951-53 or thereabouts.

Thanks all, the reason for this post was more my own nostalgia and seeing if the hornet was still alive and well. It might even be helpful for those who have them.

Im passionate about all things ballistics and firearms and love finding threads on the obscure/old and debatably out dated calibres.

Makes a pleasant change from “bush pig” “7saum” “PRC”

Looking at finding an old .22 Hornet, made one a few years ago just a break barrel single shot but enjoyed hunting with this round, never did any reloading but wouldn’t mind having a go any advice appreciated. Any old guns at the back of the safe that needs moving on.
Stu