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The .22 ARC is still relatively new as a cartridge, but HSM jumped in early with this 55-grain V-MAX load that captures what makes the platform interesting for varmint hunters. You get the advantage of AR-15 compatibility without sacrificing the flat trajectory and hitting power that serious varmint work demands.
What makes this HSM load stand out is the combination of component quality and velocity. The 55-grain V-MAX polymer tip initiates rapid expansion on impact, fragmenting dramatically for quick, clean kills on prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and predators. At the listed 3,250 fps from a standard barrel, this load delivers solid energy transfer at typical varmint ranges where wind and trajectory consistency become everything.
HSM brings more than five decades of ammunition manufacturing experience to the .22 ARC game. Based in Montana's Bitterroot Valley, the Campbell family-owned operation has built a reputation for precision loading and quality control that shows up in every round. This load reflects that commitment: careful component selection, strict velocity standards, and attention to lot-to-lot consistency that matters when you're taking long shots at small targets.
The hollow cavity between the polymer tip and the bullet's lead core creates the V-MAX's signature performance. Upon impact, the tip drives into that cavity at velocity, causing violent fragmentation. Even at lower terminal velocities, the design delivers reliable expansion. For varmint hunting where minimizing pelt damage matters, the V-MAX's frangible nature keeps damage controlled compared to more robust designs.
With a flat trajectory and the .22 ARC's reputation for wind-bucking performance, this load works out to about 500 yards for ethical varmint hunting. The lighter 55-grain bullet gives up some of the wind resistance you'd get with heavier .22 ARC loads, but you gain the velocity spike that makes for cleaner expansion at close-to-moderate ranges. For shooters running AR-15 platforms or bolt guns, this is a straightforward, effective varmint load that doesn't overthink the job.
The 55-grain V-MAX prioritizes velocity and expansion at closer ranges, making it ideal for varmints where speed and fragmentation matter most. Heavier .22 ARC loads (60gr, 75gr) trade some velocity for better wind resistance and energy retention at longer ranges. If you're shooting prairie dogs or predators inside 400 yards, the 55-grain load delivers cleaner, faster performance.
You'll need an AR-15 specifically chambered for .22 ARC. Standard .223 Remington ARs won't work. A few manufacturers make .22 ARC rifles, and if you already own an AR-15, you can convert it with a compatible barrel and bolt. The cartridge was designed to fit standard AR magazines without modification.
On prairie dogs and ground squirrels, the 55-grain V-MAX is devastating, fragmenting explosively. On coyotes, shot placement becomes more critical because the lighter bullet sheds energy faster and may not penetrate as deeply as heavier designs. It works fine on coyotes inside 300 yards with precise aim, but many predator hunters prefer 60-75 grain .22 ARC loads for larger animals.
HSM loads their ammunition with quality brass cases suitable for reloading. While HSM doesn't manufacture loose .22 ARC cases, their factory ammunition is loaded with reloadable brass that can be reused. Reloaders can develop custom loads using industry-standard .22 ARC components and data from powder manufacturers.
| Caliber/Gauge | .22 ARC |
|---|---|
| Cost per Round | 2.00 |
| Grains | 55 gr |
| Length | 6.1000 |
| Manufacturer | |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 22ARC2N |
| Units per Box | 20 |
| UPC | 810742029920 |
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