Sierra 22 Cal 45gr Hornet

Sierra 22 Cal 45gr Hornet

The Sierra 22 Cal 45gr Hornet is a round-nose soft-point bullet engineered for versatility across rifle and handgun .22-caliber platforms. Featuring a .224‑inch diameter and 45‑grain weight, this SportsMaster bullet combines a thin-walled jacket and exposed lead tip to provide accurate performance and reliable expansion on small game.

In rifles chambered for 22 Hornet, 22 K-Hornet, and 218 Bee, the 45gr Hornet excels at moderate velocities (2,600–2,900 fps). Its round-nose soft-point profile and short length stabilize well in barrels with 1:16″ twist rates, delivering traditional Sierra accuracy and thunderous terminal effect on varmints at short to moderate ranges. It is equally effective in mid-capacity cartridges such as 222 Remington and 223 Remington at up to 3,500 fps.

Constructed with precision-drawn jackets and consistent core alignment, the 45gr Hornet exhibits tight concentricity, uniform jacket thickness, and predictable chamber behavior. Its exposed-lead tip ensures smooth expansion with minimal fragmentation, making it suitable for both field targets and precision shooting.

In handguns, the bullet offers controlled expansion and accuracy across all centerfire .22 platforms, with impact going from varmint-grade at handgun speeds to Blitz-style Varminter performance when fired at rifle velocities (e.g., .223 Remington). Its round-nose soft-point design supports reliable feeding and point-of-impact consistency in pistols.

As a component bullet, the Sierra 22 Cal 45gr Hornet allows reloaders complete control over powder selection, primer choice, and seating depth—supporting tailored load development for both rifle and handgun applications. It is not factory-loaded ammunition, but a purpose-built round-nose soft-point optimized for .22-caliber varmint and target shooting.