Can I use a .22 Hornet rifle to hunt Grouse and Rabbits?

Question

I would like to hunt small game with the hornet rather than a regular .22, but I don't know if the hornet would be too powerful.

Answer 1

Yes the 22 hornet is a great little 22 centerfire cartridge. I used to use one for squrrel hunting as a young whipper snapper. You can use it on squirrel out to 100 -150 yards.

I do think that it is in a class of dying cartridges so it might be hard to find ammo for it. Unless that is you are going to reload for it. Which is another monster unto its self.

Answer 2

It should be fine for the rabbits. Birds with a rifle is not such a good idea however. In a lot states where I've hunted (Wi. for one I'm absolutely certain) it is not legal to hunt birds with a rifle of any type. Be certain of local laws before you start shooting grouse with anything but a shotgun.

Answer 3

You can , but I do not recommend you do so, because it is to potent a rifle for that purpose.* If you want to eat the grouse or rabbit use a shotgun or 22 rimfire rifle.* Its a bad idea.*

Answer 4

I would strongly suggest checking your local regs before shooting a Grouse with a rifle. I have never heard of that being legal. It most certainly isn't very sporting. As far as shooting rabbits, fire away.

Answer 5

I suggest you go to a few of the online ammo retaiilers and look at the hornet ammo prices. Wow!

Unless you already own the gun, you may want to consider the .17 or .22magnum. That way, you can actually afford ammo, you can actually find it locally and you won't be risking overkill.

Answer 6

Don't use hollow points. Use solides. If you reload, you can load down. I've taken grouse with a 30/30. Shot them in the head. Didn't loose any meat at all.

Answer 7

Use wadcutters (or the flattest nose you can find) and the lowest charge you can find.

You want to transfer as much energy as possible to the critter and try to prevent the bullet from passing all the way through.

Answer 8

yeah just try to shoot 'em in the head.