Quick Answer
For hunting prairie dogs, the best value factory load is typically a .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington with a 40-50 grain bullet, offering a balance of cost and ballistics. Look for loads with a muzzle velocity of around 3,000-3,200 feet per second. These cartridges are effective and relatively inexpensive.
Cartridge Options
When it comes to hunting prairie dogs, the .223 Remington and .22-250 Remington are two of the most popular cartridges. Both offer impressive accuracy and sufficient kinetic energy to effectively take down prairie dogs. In terms of cost, both cartridges are relatively affordable, with factory loads ranging from $10 to $20 per box of 20 rounds.
Load Selection
For a .223 Remington, consider the Hornady Varmint Express or the Federal Gold Medal Match. These loads offer a muzzle velocity of around 3,000-3,200 feet per second with a 40-50 grain bullet. The .22-250 Remington is a more powerful cartridge and can be loaded with a heavier 55-60 grain bullet for even greater kinetic energy. Look for the Winchester Varmint or the Remington Varmint Master, which offer a muzzle velocity of around 3,400-3,600 feet per second.
Practical Considerations
When hunting prairie dogs, it’s essential to consider the range at which you’ll be shooting. For closer ranges (less than 100 yards), a .223 Remington load with a 40-50 grain bullet may be sufficient. However, for longer ranges (up to 200 yards), a .22-250 Remington with a heavier 55-60 grain bullet may be a better choice. Always practice with your chosen load before heading out on a hunting trip to ensure you’re comfortable with its performance.
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