Frequently Asked Questions
Hornady .204 Ammo for Sale
How many yards is a 204 good for?
The .204 Ruger is effective on varmints to around 500 yards for most shooters. Exact range depends on load, barrel length, and target size.
Is a 204 more powerful than a 223?
.204 Ruger has a significant velocity advantage over .223 Remington—roughly 800 ft/s faster at the muzzle—with a flatter trajectory. However, .223 delivers more kinetic energy downrange due to its heavier bullets. Which is "more powerful" depends on whether you prioritize velocity or energy.
What is the 204 round good for?
The .204 Ruger is primarily used for varmint hunting—prairie dogs, groundhogs, and coyotes. Its velocity near 4,000 fps produces a flat trajectory and explosive terminal performance on small targets. Light frangible bullets limit pelt damage, appealing to fur hunters. It also sees use in target shooting.
What is the best barrel length for a 204 Ruger?
Most .204 Ruger rifles perform well with barrels in the low to mid 20-inch range. A 22-inch barrel is considered by many to be optimal, offering maximum handiness without meaningful velocity loss. Factory varmint rifles often use 24 to 26 inches, but 22 inches is not merely a compromise.
What is the most accurate ammo for a 204 Ruger?
Accuracy varies by rifle, but Hornady Superformance Varmint 40-grain loads consistently deliver tight groups. Federal Premium Varmint & Predator and Nosler Varmageddon also perform well. Testing multiple brands in your specific rifle is the only reliable way to determine which it prefers.
What is special about Hornady black ammo?
Hornady Black ammunition is designed to feed reliably across multiple platforms, including direct impingement, gas piston, bolt action, and suppressed setups. It uses Hornady bullets optimized for accuracy and terminal performance, making it suitable for target shooting and hunting at a competitive price point.
Can you hunt with Hornady black?
Hornady Black is a versatile line suited for hunting various game, not just varmints and target shooting. Some loads, like the 5.56 74gr, are designed for deer and hogs. The .204 Ruger loads work well on small predators and varmints. Always check local regulations for your specific game and caliber.