Posted by on Aug 25, 2025 in Product Review Tags: , ,

If you handload for coyotes, prairie dogs, groundhogs, or similar pests, dialing in the right varmint hunting calibers pays off in flatter trajectories, minimal pelt damage, and better wind performance. Below is a reloader-focused overview of proven small-game cartridges—plus in-stock components and ammo you can grab from Duck Creek Sporting Goods’ varmint hunting calibers collection.

.17 Hornet — ultra-light, ultra-flat

A modernized classic that sips powder, the .17 Hornet launches 20-grain V-MAX around 3,650 fps, producing whisper-low recoil and excellent varmint terminal effect out to ~200–250 yards. Great for high-volume dog towns and sensitive areas where blast matters. Pair with light, polymer-tipped bullets.

Shop it: Hornady 17 Hornet 20gr V-MAX (QTY 25).

.204 Ruger — speed demon with little recoil

The .204 Ruger is beloved by reloaders for blistering speed and easy spotting of impacts. Typical 32-grain loads can clock ~4,100 fps, with heavier 45-grain options still running hot—perfect for tiny targets at extended range without beating you up behind the rifle.

Shop it: Hornady .204 Ruger Brass (QTY 50).

.22 Hornet — quiet(ish) classic for closer sets

For farms, edges, or when you want modest report and pelt-friendly performance, the .22 Hornet is a gem. Factory 35-grain V-MAX loads hover around 2,975 fps, and handloads with 35–45-grain bullets shine inside 200 yards.

Shop it: HSM .22 Hornet 35gr V-MAX (QTY 50).

.22-250 Remington — the benchmark

If you want a “do-everything” varmint round with decades of field proof, it’s hard to beat the 22-250. With 40–55-grain bullets it’s a wind-buckling laser that sets the standard for reach, speed, and terminal effect on predators.

Shop it: Hornady 22-250 Remington Brass (QTY 50).

22 ARC — modern, high-BC performance (AR-15 friendly)

Designed around long, sleek .224 bullets, 22 ARC brings near-22-250 performance to the AR platform with better mag compatibility and excellent downrange ballistics—fantastic for windy days and mid-to-long-range sets.

Shop it: Hornady 22 ARC Brass (QTY 50).

Quick picker for reloaders

  • Shortest-range, least blast: .22 Hornet
  • Flat + soft-shooting speed: .204 Ruger
  • Tiny targets, low recoil: .17 Hornet
  • All-around, long-range laser: 22-250 Remington
  • AR-15, high-BC bullets: 22 ARC

For more options—including 220 Swift, 222 Rem, 22 GT, and 22 Creedmoor—browse the full varmint hunting calibers collection and filter by bullet diameter, weight, or brand to match your barrel twist and hunting style.

Reloading notes (read before you seat)

  • Bullet choice: Varmint-tuned tipped designs (e.g., V-MAX, TNT) deliver rapid upset on small game with minimal ricochet risk.
  • Twist pairing: Verify your barrel twist and pick bullet lengths/weights accordingly (e.g., heavier .224” bullets need faster twists).
  • Case prep matters: Uniform primer pockets, deburr flash holes, and keep neck tension consistent for repeatable POI.
  • Work up safely: Always start low and follow a current manual; temperature and lot changes affect pressure.

Ready to build your loads?

Explore brass, ammo, dies, and bullets tagged for [varmint hunting calibers] at Duck Creek Sporting Goods, then tailor your recipe to your terrain, target size, and rifle. Happy loading—and shoot safely.