would you change a .223 for a .22 hornet?

[Liveonce]

Only use my .223 for foxes and generally under 150yards, thinking of parting with it to be replaced with a .22 hornet.

Thinking I would save on reloading costs as use less powder, have brass as also have a .17hornet and i neck down .22 to .17.

good idea or not?

Advantages vs disadvantages?

 

[old keeper]

Having used both over the years, the 223 is the more versatile. It really depends on you! Unless you are doing a lot of shooting, the cost savings from reloading would be relatively nominal. Then you would factor in what you would get from the sale of the 223 and the cost of a Hornet.

However, if you really fancy a Hornet, as many do, it might be the best option to keep the 223 and acquire a reasonably priced Hornet. Best of both worlds

 

[JTO]

How many rounds will it take to save the cost of changing rifles?
(Old Keeper beat me to it)

 

[Edinburgh Rifles]

Get both!!
Answer is always “Yes!” To the question
“Should I get another rifle”…

 

[Klenchblaize]

I know of no non-lead projectiles that offer acceptable accuracy in 22 Hornet chambering. You may have more success with finding suitable non-lead 223 factory ammo or developing such as a reloader.

K

 

[Liveonce]

I know of no non-lead projectiles that offer acceptable accuracy in 22 Hornet chambering. You may have more success with finding suitable non-lead 223 factory ammo or developing such as a reloader.

K

is not the non-lead only required for .243 and larger when/if it becomes law?

 

[Liveonce]

Get both!!
Answer is always “Yes!” To the question
“Should I get another rifle”…

actually been looking to reduce the number of rifles I own had hmr and .17hornet at one time sold the hmr.

May be an age thing, but doing likewise with shotguns.

You cannot take them with you

 

[Liveonce]

How many rounds will it take to save the cost of changing rifles?
(Old Keeper beat me to it)

May be not that many, plenty of bargains to be had as buyers market, may even be able to do a straight swap.

 

[purdeydog]

Just put in for a 22hornet. Not many about to purchase. Depends on your needs. I want something for short distances, in semi urban areas with a lower velocity but good knock down power. If I can get away with using a 223 I just as well use my 243.

 

[tackb]

no

 

[finnbear270]

I would source Hornet a "K"

 

[Heym SR20]

Go you your gun shop and ask for a box of Hornet cartridges.

Then ask for a box of 223.

This will soon answer your question.

 

[JTO]

May be not that many, plenty of bargains to be had as buyers market, may even be able to do a straight swap.

Make him and offer!
I was thinking he would be selling used and buying new.

 

[JohnCZ]

I really like the 22 Hornet on small properties due to the low report but you guys can have moderators so there is no hassle with that. Cost for reloading either is minimal and a reduced load in 223 will outperform a Hornet hands down.
Now the silly old man in me says get the Hornet, get the Hornet, Hornet is amazing until I have another one and then it is always "why did I get another Hornet".
I am not much for the sub-calibers like 17 and 20, no big deal really. We had a 17Rem many years ago that was a pain in the a$%e, kept blowing primers on hot days and the wind loved those stupid little bullets.
To be honest with what you are shooting a 22 magnum would get you on your way nicely and with new loads always coming out 22WMR just keep getting better.
Last word - Out of all the small centerfires the 222Rem is the darling.
Cheers
John

 

[Taff]

Owned both, the hornet was a BRNO not threaded, double trigger, so not suppressed, accurate but noisy, ammo prices are about the same and both readily available . I prefer the 223 because ofthe ability to get heavier rounds.

 

[old 30-06]

No, this is not a good idea. You would only save on powder, but in order to make this saving you would have to buy a rifle and dies. For the ammount you shoot is this going to be a worthwhile saving ? 223 are extremely common, so future profed with good cheap availability of brass, ammunition, non lead ammunition, and other components. 22 Hornet is declining. Stay with the 223.

 

[Claret_Dabbler]

You are all missing the obvious solution… 222rem.

 

[old 30-06]

No. I do not have a 223, but I do have a 222, and I love it. I have no plans to change to a 223. However, the 222 is fading in popularity, whilst the 223 is in its ascendancy.

 

[Liveonce]

even more undecided was expecting the hornet users to come out in support, looks like keep the 223 is winning

 

[old keeper]

even more undecided was expecting the hornet users to come out in support, looks like keep the 223 is winning

I could be wrong, but I suspect the .22 Hornet is what could be described as a "nostalgic" calibre. Many, like me, have memories of the good old Hornet from the days when there were few calibres available. I always loved the Hornet, but admit that these days there are more efficient calibres available. I recently sold my own Anschutz Hornet as it was not getting used very much. Do I miss it? Yes, would I get another, probably not.