Hornady 22 ARC Ammo: A Sport Shooter's Dream
Hornady .22 ARC ammo emerges as a cutting-edge solution for AR-15 shooters aiming for accuracy and performance.
February 01, 2024
The Hornady 22 Advanced Rifle Cartridge (ARC) represents a significant advancement in ammunition technology, particularly for the AR-15 platform. Developed by Hornady, this cartridge is designed to provide exceptional power and performance, rivaling that of the renowned .22-250 Remington, but with the added advantage of being compatible with standard-length AR-15 actions. This compatibility extends the capabilities of the AR-15 platform significantly, allowing it to achieve impressive ballistic performance at ranges out to and beyond 1,000 yards.
The 22 ARC is the result of Hornady's meticulous design process, which included using their Doppler radar systems. This technology enabled Hornady to fine-tune the ballistic performance of high-BC (Ballistic Coefficient) bullets, ensuring consistent accuracy and improved velocity spreads. The design of both the cartridge and rifle chamber together has resulted in a cartridge capable of consistent performance and an outstanding shooting experience.
Hornady offers three main loads for the 22 ARC: a 62-grain ELD-VT V-Match at 3300 fps, a 75-grain ELD Match Black at 3000 fps, and an 88-grain ELD Match at 2825 fps. The 62-grain ELD-VT is particularly notable for its high G1 BC of .395, which allows it to resist wind deflection and retain energy effectively. This makes the 22 ARC a versatile option for various hunting and shooting purposes, including long-range target shooting and hunting varmints and predators.
Comparisons with other cartridges like the 22 Nosler and .224 Valkyrie highlight the 22 ARC's unique attributes. While these cartridges have similar traits, the 22 ARC stands out for its compatibility with the AR-15 platform and its ability to deliver long-range performance comparable to the .22-250 Remington but in a more versatile format.
Overall, the 22 ARC is shaping up to be a popular offering from Hornady, catering to sport shooters and varmint hunters' needs. Its capability to function well in both AR-15 and bolt-action rifles, along with its high ballistic efficiency and versatility, make it a noteworthy addition to the ammunition market.