Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The 22-250 Hornady Superformance Varmint load delivers 4450 fps at the muzzle with a 35-grain NTX polymer-tip bullet—velocity that flattens trajectory out to 300 yards and reduces wind drift on windy prairie mornings. Superformance propellants achieve this speed without increasing chamber pressure or felt recoil, making the load safe for bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles alike. The NTX projectile uses a lead-free compressed-metal core and polymer tip, replicating the accuracy and terminal expansion of Hornady’s V-Max design while meeting lead-free hunting regulations in California and other jurisdictions. If you hunt varmints where non-toxic projectiles are required—or you simply prefer lead-free loads—this is a 22-250 Remington cartridge engineered for both compliance and performance.
Load Profile
Hornady developed the Superformance line around proprietary powder blends that burn efficiently at lower peak pressures, extracting additional velocity without stressing action components or barrels. The 35-grain NTX exits a 24-inch test barrel at 4450 fps with 1539 foot-pounds of energy—numbers that translate to a nearly flat trajectory inside 250 yards and explosive expansion on contact with soft tissue. The polymer tip initiates expansion at varmint-typical impact velocities, and the compressed lead-free core fragments reliably. Brass cases carry Boxer primers and support multiple reloading cycles. Each case mouth is chamfered and the flash hole deburred at the Hornady Grand Island, Nebraska plant. Corrosive salts are absent from the priming compound.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 22-250 Remington |
| Bullet Weight | 35 Grains |
| Bullet Type | Polymer Tip (Hornady NTX) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 4450 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 1539 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per Box | 20 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Lead-Free | Yes |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Ballistic Coefficient (G1) | 0.17 |
| Test Barrel Length | 24 inches |
| Intended Use | Hunting (varmint) |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
The G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.17 and sectional density of 0.1 keep the 35-grain NTX supersonic well past typical varmint engagement ranges, and the polymer tip resists deformation in the magazine. Load selection for the 22-250 Remington spans heavy-for-caliber match projectiles to ultralight varmint bullets—this Superformance offering sits at the light, fast end of the spectrum. Browse additional loadings in the 22-250 ammo category.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Verify current state and local ammunition regulations before purchasing; lead-free projectile requirements vary by jurisdiction and hunting area.
- Store ammunition in factory packaging in a climate-controlled environment. Do not expose cartridges to moisture, solvents, or temperatures above 150°F.
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