OK the 22 hornet is marginal for Yotes what do I buy instead?

oldelkhunter · 02-21-2005, 07:17 AM

I have a 22 hornet but in talking to the landowner he says there is a possiblity of 400 yard shots. Now I can use a Sendero in 308 with a tactical scope on them which I would rather not do or a walking around varmint rifle. I really like this .204 Ruger but it is windy in this area..and I really don't want to go 243 what are other good options ? Thanks

longrifle1000 · 02-21-2005, 08:29 AM

If you don't want to go with the 243 I would suggest a 22-250 or 220 swift. Both are capable of taking yotes out to 400 yards if you do your part. They are not the greatest in wind, but would do better than the 204 Ruger. I shot a few with my Remington 700 FV in 308. I used Sierra 168 gr BTHP's with the min starting load. It didn't mess them up too bad. I was able to sew them up later. But it would not be my first choice if you are wanting to keep the pelts.

biscuit jake · 02-21-2005, 08:40 AM

I had a 22 250 for several years and I would lean that way for 400 yard shots. I figger an old pro like you would reload. For varmints there is alot I like about factory bullet selection in the 223. You can shoot heavier loads with the right twist. There is more math on a 400 yard shot, but it is not catastrophic and less muzzle blast. Otherwise, windy long shots would invite the 24 & 25 calibers. Good luck.

oldelkhunter · 02-21-2005, 08:41 AM

Actually I would rather blow them up if at all possible. Pelt damage is not a concern.

Tony Orlando and Dawn · 02-21-2005, 09:12 AM

Since you don't want a .243, I'd go 22-250 all the way.

biscuit jake · 02-21-2005, 10:09 AM

Blow them up, eh? I don't know how much wind you are dealing with, but the 224 bullets will rapidly expand at roughly 2000 fps at 400 yards. I used to shoot the Hornady SX in both the 222 and 22 250. That was awhile back, though. Maybe someone currently busting yotes can recommend the bullet.

Farmanimal · 02-21-2005, 10:12 AM

If your not worried about pelt damage you could use a 300 win mag. They are good out to about 600 yards when sighted in well

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oldelkhunter · 02-21-2005, 10:17 AM

Yep I live for seeing blood spray when hitting animals. Its my ugly side

biscuit jake · 02-21-2005, 11:44 AM

Well the 22 250 should do it. I hear the 220 swift has more reloading potential but I don't know if the critter could tell the difference. What kind of rifle are you looking at for this, oldelkhunter?

oldelkhunter · 02-21-2005, 11:50 AM

Probably a REm 700