Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Hornady Superformance Varmint 223 Remington ammunition pairs proprietary propellants with the 53-grain V-Max polymer tip bullet to deliver 100 to 200 fps more velocity than standard varmint loads — without increasing chamber pressure or felt recoil. At 3465 fps from a 24-inch barrel, this load generates 1413 ft-lbs of energy and a flat trajectory for rapid expansion on prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and coyotes. The V-Max bullet uses a polymer tip to initiate expansion on impact and a copper jacket engineered for fast-twist varmint barrels. Brass cases accept Boxer primers and reload reliably. Each box holds 20 rounds.
Built for the Box
Hornady engineers the Superformance line around temperature-stable propellants that burn efficiently across seasonal temperature swings, maintaining velocity consistency from summer heat to late-season cold. The 53-grain V-Max projectile features a 0.29 G1 ballistic coefficient and 0.151 sectional density, balancing velocity retention with rapid fragmentation on varmint-sized targets. Hornady loads each round to function in bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles, including AR-15 platforms with standard 1:7, 1:8, and 1:9 twist rates.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 223 Remington |
| Bullet weight | 53 Grains |
| Bullet type | Polymer Tip (Hornady V-Max) |
| Muzzle velocity | 3465 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1413 ft-lbs |
| Test barrel length | 24 Inches |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.29 |
| Sectional density | 0.151 |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead free | No |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
The polymer tip acts as a wedge on impact, driving into the lead core to initiate rapid expansion while the copper jacket fragments for maximum energy transfer. The Superformance propellant formula maintains velocity across barrel lengths — shorter 16- to 20-inch carbine barrels will see reduced velocity but retain the load’s efficiency advantage over standard 223 varmint offerings. For additional Hornady 223 ammo options, compare grain weights and bullet designs to match your rifle’s twist rate and intended range.
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.
- Observe the four universal rules of firearms safety when handling any firearm or ammunition.
- Verify that your ammunition matches the caliber stamped on your firearm’s barrel or chamber before loading.
- This product contains lead, a chemical known to the State of California to cause cancer and reproductive harm — store ammunition away from children and wash hands after handling.
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