22 Creedmoor: Expert-Level Accuracy, Hunting Capability, and Ballistics You Can Trust

The 22 Creedmoor has earned its place as one of the most versatile and effective long-range .22-caliber cartridges on the market. Built from the proven 6.5 Creedmoor case and necked down to .224, it delivers the speed, energy retention, and flat trajectory that precision shooters and hunters demand.

When paired with the right rifle and load, such as our 90-grain HPBT, it’s capable of cleanly taking predators, varmints, and deer-sized game at extended ranges, all while offering low recoil and predictable ballistics.

Why the 22 Creedmoor is Different

Unlike traditional .22-caliber varmint rounds, the 22 Creedmoor is designed to handle heavy, high ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets that retain velocity and energy far downrange. This makes it a more capable hunting and competition round than .223 Rem, 22-250, or 220 Swift—especially in the wind.

Key performance points:

• Muzzle Velocity: ~3,200 fps with a 90-grain HPBT from a 24-inch barrel.
• Ballistic Coefficient (BC): .485 with an 80-grain ELD-M, nearly double that of the 22-250 with lighter bullets.
• Trajectory: At 1,000 yards, it drops 242 inches—148 inches less than a 22-250.
• Wind Drift: Within 1.2 inches of a 6.5 Creedmoor at 1,000 yards.

In testing, the 22 Creedmoor maintains speed and energy better than comparable calibers. At 400 yards, it retains roughly 1,177 ft-lbs of energy, compared to ~564 ft-lbs for a 22-250 and ~540 ft-lbs for a 220 Swift.

Real-World Hunting Performance

Predator and Varmint Control

Hunters running the 22 Creedmoor consistently report devastating results on coyotes, foxes, and bobcats—often beyond 400 yards. Its flat trajectory and reduced wind drift make it ideal for thermal predator setups or long-range varmint control.

Deer-Sized Game

With over 2,000 ft-lbs of muzzle energy and excellent retention at distance, the 22 Creedmoor exceeds the standard 1,000 ft-lb threshold for ethical deer hunting. Heart-lung placement is key. Field reports confirm clean one-shot kills on whitetails and mule deer past 400 yards.

Black Bear Case Study

In one bear hunt at 400 yards, an 80-grain ELD-M dropped the animal within 30 yards. Upon skinning, internal damage to the rib cage was comparable to or greater than that from heavier calibers, such as the 7 PRC or .300 PRC. This is a testament to the bullet’s energy transfer and terminal performance when placed accurately.

Larger Game

While it’s been used on black bear and even elk, energy at distance falls below the ~1,500 ft-lb mark beyond 200–300 yards. Most experts recommend limiting shots on large-bodied game and focusing the 22 Creedmoor where it excels: varmints, predators, and deer-sized animals.

Ballistics Snapshot – HOP Munitions 90gr HPBT

Rifle Setup and Barrel Considerations

• Barrel Length: 22–26 inches to maximize velocity; shorter barrels sacrifice speed but improve handling.
• Twist Rate: 1:7 or 1:8 to stabilize 75–90 grain bullets.
• Barrel Life: 1,500–2,000 rounds before accuracy begins to fade—better longevity than ultra-high-velocity .22s like the 220 Swift.
• Weight: A well-built 22 Creedmoor hunting rifle can come in under 10 lbs with optics and still maintain shootability.

Suppressors further reduce recoil and muzzle rise, making it easier to spot impacts and take quick follow-up shots.

How It Compares

• Vs. 22-250 & 220 Swift: Retains more velocity and energy at distance, handles heavier bullets better, and drifts less in the wind.
• Vs. .223/5.56: Vastly superior in long-range capability and energy retention.
• Vs. 6.5 Creedmoor: Nearly as stable in the wind at extreme range, with a flatter trajectory and less recoil—ideal for smaller game and competition.

Why HOP Munitions’ 22 Creedmoor is the Right Choice

HOP Munitions’ 90-grain HPBT load is designed for shooters who demand match-grade accuracy and dependable terminal performance.

• Match-grade bullets for consistent accuracy.
• Premium annealed brass for reloaders.
• Lot-to-lot uniformity for reliable ballistic data.
• Proven in the field on varmints, predators, and deer.

Priced at $46.99 for 20 rounds, this load is built for precision work, not high-volume range sessions. Every cartridge is assembled for consistent velocity, tight groups, and dependable terminal performance, whether you’re punching steel at distance or taking a well-placed shot on game.

Bottom Line

The 22 Creedmoor is a purpose-built tool for hunters and shooters who value precision, speed, and downrange performance. In the right rifle and with the right load, it’s devastatingly effective from close-range predator work to 1,000-yard steel.