C.O.L. for 22 Hornet

[MMCSRET]

I'm loading for a Ruger 77/22 Hornet. Does anyone know what the longest overall cartridge length the magazine will handle? I know the chamber is longer than the magazine. Most load data states a C.O.L. of 1.72" or so. I do not have the rifle available to play with but will be using one for a Snowshoe Hare hunt a little later this fall. Any info is greatly appreciated!!!

 

[rcmodel]

It would seem to me if you don't have the rifle available to work up loads with, I would stick to the standard SAAMI OAL of 1.723".

rcmodel

 

[MMCSRET]

That maybe what I have to do, but I'm not in a hurry as the trip is not until the 1st week in Dec., so maybe someone will know. I'm also going to make a couple of calls and stop in and visit next time I get to the big city.

 

[Vern Humphrey]

I recommend using the 35 grain Hornady V-Max in the Hornet. Not only is this an accurate and effective bullet, but it allows you to ignore magazine limitations.

All V-Max bullets have the same shank length -- the weight differences come in having shorter noses. You can load the 35 grain bullet so the shoulder of the bullet touches the lede (origin of the rifling) and the load will still work through the magazine.

I recommend using the Lee Collet Die, and putting a couple of washers on the shell holder, to make the collet activate early, leaving the lower half of the neck unsized -- this will act as a "pilot," centering the round in the throat.

As for charge, fill the case with Li'l Gun, tap it to settle the charge a bit, then seat the bullet well out, close to the lede.

 

[MMCSRET]

All extremely good info and I thank you, but, it still doesn't answer my question. I try here @ THR always first. Think I'll post on Ruger forum and see what happens.

 

[Walkalong]

My 77/22 .22 Hornet mag inside measurements are 1.814, best I can measure, so it should be able to take loaded rounds up to 1.800 without problems. Does that help?

 

[Vern Humphrey]

My Model 82 Kimber has a magazine internal dimension of 1.860, and I load to an OAL of 1.815. This puts the shoulder of the 35-grain V-Max bullet right into the rifling.

 

[MMCSRET]

AAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!! Satisfaction, I love it and thank you all.