Hornady 22402 CX Varmint .22 Cal .224 50gr Copper Solid Bullets

The Hornady CX Varmint .22 Cal .224 50gr copper solid bullets deliver monolithic construction built for precision reloaders pursuing small game and varmint hunting. These all-copper bullets represent a modern alternative to traditional lead-core designs, offering one-piece construction that won't separate in the field and provides consistent performance shot after shot.

Built around Hornady's proven CX (Copper alloy eXpanding) platform, these 50-grain projectiles combine aerodynamic refinement with practical terminal performance. The Heat Shield Tip uses heat-resistant polymer to manage aerodynamic heating across extended flight paths, ensuring consistent ballistic coefficients and reliable bullet-to-bullet consistency. The optimized groove geometry minimizes bearing surface and copper fouling while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency—a design choice that matters whether you're working up loads at the bench or shooting across open ground.

CX bullets deliver 95% weight retention, which means what goes in stays together for deep, reliable penetration on varmints. That monolithic copper construction also makes them fully California-compliant where traditional ammunition faces restrictions, and they're a solid choice in any region requiring nontraditional bullets. For the reloader focused on consistency, accuracy, and dependable terminal performance in the .22 caliber, these CX rounds simplify component selection without compromise.

Key Features

• Monolithic copper alloy construction—won't separate, ensures 95% weight retention
• Heat Shield Tip resists aerodynamic heating for consistent ballistic coefficient throughout flight
• Optimized groove geometry maximizes aerodynamic performance and reduces copper fouling
• Perfect meplat (tip) for consistent bullet-to-bullet and lot-to-lot precision
• California-compliant and legal in areas requiring nontraditional ammunition
• Ideal for varmint hunting and small-game applications

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Hornady CX Varmint bullets legal in California and other restricted areas?

Yes. The CX Varmint is fully California-compliant and qualifies as a nontraditional bullet, making it legal where traditional lead-core ammunition is restricted.

What's the advantage of monolithic copper construction over traditional bullets?

Monolithic design won't separate on impact, delivering consistent 95% weight retention for deeper penetration and more reliable terminal performance. There's no jacket-core separation to worry about, and copper construction reduces fouling in your barrel compared to some alternatives.

Will the Heat Shield Tip affect my ballistic calculations?

The Heat Shield Tip is engineered to maintain consistent ballistic coefficient throughout the bullet's entire flight path. The polymer tip creates a perfect meplat for bullet-to-bullet consistency, so your velocities and ballistics remain predictable from load to load.

What game is the 50-grain .224 CX Varmint designed for?

These bullets are optimized for varmint hunting and small-game applications. The CX platform is also appropriate for medium-size game in areas where it's legal and ethical for your specific hunt.