The .22 Hornet and .22 K-Hornet are both popular cartridges known for their accuracy and relatively low recoil, making them excellent choices for small game hunting and target shooting. However, subtle but significant differences exist between the two, impacting their performance and suitability for specific applications. This in-depth comparison will help you understand these differences and choose the right cartridge for your needs.
Ballistics: The Key Differences
The most significant distinction lies in their ballistics. The .22 K-Hornet, as its name suggests, is a bottlenecked version of the .22 Hornet, resulting in higher velocities and flatter trajectories.
Velocity and Energy:
- .22 Hornet: Typically achieves velocities around 2200-2400 fps (feet per second) with a 45-46 grain bullet, generating around 200-250 ft-lbs (foot-pounds) of energy.
- .22 K-Hornet: Delivers significantly higher velocities, often exceeding 2700 fps with the same weight bullet, resulting in approximately 300-350 ft-lbs of energy. This increase in velocity translates to a flatter trajectory and greater effective range.
Trajectory and Range:
The higher velocity of the .22 K-Hornet leads to a flatter trajectory, meaning less bullet drop over distance. This is advantageous for longer-range shots, where accurate bullet placement is critical. The .22 Hornet, while still accurate, exhibits more bullet drop, limiting its effective range, especially in hunting situations.
Recoil and Accuracy:
Both cartridges are known for their mild recoil, making them suitable for novice shooters and those sensitive to recoil. However, the .22 K-Hornet's higher pressure generates slightly more recoil than the .22 Hornet, though the difference is usually negligible.
Accuracy-wise, both cartridges are capable of impressive accuracy in suitable rifles. The choice largely depends on the quality of the rifle, ammunition, and the shooter's skill.
Cartridge Availability and Cost:
The .22 Hornet enjoys wider availability and generally lower cost of ammunition compared to the .22 K-Hornet. This can be a significant factor for shooters who plan on significant volume shooting.
Hunting Applications:
Both cartridges are effective for small game hunting, such as rabbits, squirrels, and prairie dogs. However, the .22 K-Hornet's increased energy and flatter trajectory provide a slight advantage at longer ranges or when hunting slightly larger game. For hunting at closer ranges, the .22 Hornet remains a viable and cost-effective option.
Rifle Availability:
While both cartridges have rifles available, the .22 Hornet has a larger selection of rifles on the market due to its longer history. The .22 K-Hornet, being a more recent development, might have fewer rifle choices available.
Summary Table:
| Feature | .22 Hornet | .22 K-Hornet |
|---|---|---|
| Velocity | 2200-2400 fps | 2700+ fps |
| Energy | 200-250 ft-lbs | 300-350 ft-lbs |
| Trajectory | More bullet drop | Flatter trajectory |
| Recoil | Mild | Slightly more than .22 Hornet |
| Ammunition Cost | Generally Lower | Generally Higher |
| Availability | More readily available | Less readily available |
| Effective Range | Shorter | Longer |
Conclusion:
The choice between the .22 Hornet and .22 K-Hornet depends on your specific needs and priorities. The .22 Hornet offers a more economical and readily available option for shorter-range shooting and hunting, while the .22 K-Hornet provides superior performance for longer ranges and potentially larger game, albeit at a higher cost and with slightly less readily available ammunition. Carefully consider the factors outlined above to determine which cartridge best suits your shooting and hunting objectives.
