Hornady 81544 Precision Hunter 22Arc 80Gr Extremely Low Drag-Expanding 20 Per Box/10 Case

The Hornady 81544 Precision Hunter 22 ARC ammunition pairs match-grade accuracy with field-proven terminal performance, making it a solid choice for medium-game hunters looking to stretch their effective range. Built on Hornady's reputation for consistency and precision, these factory loads chamber the company's ELD-X bullet—a design engineered to perform reliably from close range out to extended distances where most hunting happens.

The 80-grain ELD-X bullet sits at the core of this load. Its Heat Shield polymer tip is designed to withstand aerodynamic heating and maintain its shape throughout flight, preserving ballistic coefficient over the bullet's entire trajectory. The streamlined secant ogive and boattail geometry work together for superior aerodynamic efficiency, while the highly concentric jacket ensures consistency shot to shot. At typical hunting ranges (0–400 yards), the bullet expands decisively and retains 50–60% of its weight. For hunters pushing beyond 400 yards, the Heat Shield tip drives backward to initiate expansion at lower velocities, delivering controlled mushrooming with 85–90% weight retention and the deep penetration needed for reliable kills.

These are factory loads, not hand-me-downs. Hornady's clean-burning propellants are loaded to uniform capacity for consistent performance regardless of temperature swings in the field. That attention to detail translates to the accuracy and shot-to-shot reliability demanded by serious hunters and precision shooters. The 22 ARC cartridge itself is a modern, efficient medium-game round, and Hornady has tailored this ammunition to let it shine.

Each box contains 20 rounds, and the product is sold in 10-box cases, so you can stock up for the season or lay in ammunition for multiple rifles without constant restocking trips.

Key Features

• ELD-X bullet with Heat Shield polymer tip for retained aerodynamic performance and consistent expansion across hunting ranges
• Match-accurate factory loads with clean-burning propellants and uniform capacity for shot-to-shot consistency
• Controlled expansion with high weight retention (50–60% at standard ranges, 85–90% at extended range)
• 22 ARC chambering, ideal for medium game up to 300 lbs
• 20 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What game is the 22 ARC Precision Hunter suitable for?

Hornady designed this load for medium game weighing 50–300 lbs. That covers deer, pronghorn, feral hogs, and similar-sized game across much of North America. The ELD-X bullet's expansion characteristics—aggressive at close range and controlled at distance—support reliable performance on medium-frame animals at any practical hunting range.

How does the ELD-X bullet perform at extended range?

At impact velocities typical of 400+ yard shots, the Heat Shield tip drives backward into the bullet body to initiate expansion. This delayed-expansion design delivers controlled mushrooming with 85–90% weight retention and deep penetration. At closer ranges (0–400 yards), the bullet expands more aggressively while retaining 50–60% of its weight, making it effective across the full spectrum of hunting distances.

Why should I choose factory Precision Hunter loads over reloads or other factory ammo?

Hornady loads these to exacting standards with clean-burning propellants and uniform powder charges, ensuring consistency from round to round and stability across temperature changes. The ELD-X bullet was specifically engineered for the Precision Hunter line, and these factory loads are optimized to let that bullet perform at its full potential. For hunters who demand match-grade accuracy and reliable terminal performance, factory precision loads eliminate variables.

How many rounds come in each purchase?

This product is sold as 10 boxes of 20 rounds each—200 total rounds per case. You can purchase the full case or individual 20-round boxes depending on your needs.