Improved .22 Hornet with more powder capacity. Gains 200+ fps over standard Hornet. Perfect small varmint cartridge with minimal report and recoil.
Type: Rifle
Introduced: 1940, United States
Parent case: .22 Hornet
Standardization: Wildcat
Bullet diameter: 0.224" (5.69 mm)
Case length: 1.403" (35.64 mm)
Overall length: 1.723" (43.76 mm)
Max pressure: 46,000 PSI
Rim type: Rimmed
Primer: Small Rifle
Typical twist rate: 1:14
Muzzle velocity: 2800–3150 fps
Muzzle energy: 650–950 ft-lbs
Effective range: 250 yd
Common bullet weights: 35, 40, 45, 50 gr
Primary use: Varmint, Target
Production status: Limited
Also known as: .22 K Hornet · .22 Kilbourn Hornet
History: Developed by Lysle Kilbourn in 1940s by fire-forming .22 Hornet brass to sharper shoulder angle and less body taper. Increases powder capacity significantly over standard Hornet. Provides noticeable velocity increase with same barrel length. Can be formed by firing standard .22 Hornet ammunition in K-Hornet chamber. Popular among handloaders and small rifle enthusiasts. Never commercialized but…
Notable firearms: Custom single-shot rifles, Rebarreled bolt actions, Contender pistols
Similar cartridges: .22 Hornet, .17 Ackley Hornet, .218 Bee