{"id":18802,"date":"2026-03-04T20:23:47","date_gmt":"2026-03-04T20:23:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/?p=18802"},"modified":"2026-03-09T17:18:27","modified_gmt":"2026-03-09T17:18:27","slug":"best-22-creedmoor-ammo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/best-22-creedmoor-ammo\/","title":{"rendered":"Best 22 Creedmoor Ammo"},"content":{"rendered":"

The .22 <\/span>Creedmoor has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most efficient, flat-shooting, and versatile modern rifle cartridges available today. It\u2019s designed for shooters who want high velocity, excellent ballistic coefficients, and minimal wind drift. This round has become especially popular in PRS-style precision shooting and varmint hunting. The best 22 Creedmoor ammo even works for medium-game hunting with the right bullet selection.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In this guide, we\u2019ll break down everything a prospective buyer needs to know about .22 Creedmoor ammo, from its history and ballistic advantages to how different bullet weights and constructions affect real-world performance. We\u2019ll also compare it briefly to 6.5 Creedmoor, helping you understand where each cartridge excels and why the .22 Creedmoor continues to gain traction among serious shooters.<\/span><\/p>\n

Best .22 Creedmoor Ammo: Precision Shooting & PRS<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hornady 80-grain ELD-M Match<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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The ELD-M Match is at the top of the food chain; it’s the T. rex to all the slow-moving dinosaur rounds.\u00a0<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Hornady 80-grain ELD-M Match is one of the most popular factory loads available for .22 Creedmoor. It offers an excellent balance of velocity, ballistic coefficient, and consistency, making it a strong choice for PRS and long-range steel shooting. The ELD-M bullet is known for its uniformity and predictable flight characteristics, which are critical in competitive environments.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nPoly<\/td>\n80gr<\/td>\n3,285 FPS<\/td>\n1,917 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,076 FPS\/1,680 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,877 FPS\/1,470 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,687 FPS\/1,282 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

Nosler 85-grain RDF Match Grade<\/strong> <\/span><\/h3>\n
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Meticulously weighed powder, along with precision-loaded Nosler Bullets, makes RDF match grade a cut above the rest.<\/p><\/div>\n

Nosler 85-grain RDF Match Grade ammunition represents the heavier end of the spectrum for .22 Creedmoor. With its extremely low-drag design, this load is optimized to minimize wind drift at extended ranges. Shooters who prioritize downrange performance and stability often gravitate toward this option, especially when shooting beyond 800 yards.<\/span><\/p>\n

These precision-focused loads highlight what the .22 Creedmoor does best: pushing long, heavy bullets fast enough to remain competitive while keeping recoil low and consistency high.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nHP-BT<\/td>\n85gr<\/td>\n3,175 FPS<\/td>\n2,433 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,042 FPS\/2,199 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,911 FPS\/1,979 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,782 FPS\/1,773 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Best .22 Creedmoor Ammo: Varmint Hunting<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hornady 69gr ELD-VT<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Predators don’t get back up from the hide kickin’ Hornady ELD-VT gives them.<\/p><\/div>\n

Hornady 69gr ELD-VT is purpose-built for high-velocity cartridges like the .22 Creedmoor. Designed to deliver rapid expansion, it is highly effective for varmint and predator hunting where quick, humane results are important. Its lighter weight allows for impressive speed while still maintaining good ballistic performance.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nPoly<\/td>\n69gr<\/td>\n3,550 FPS<\/td>\n1,931 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,296 FPS\/1,664 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,057 FPS\/1,432 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,832 FPS\/1,229 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Copper Creek 70-grain Berger VLD<\/b><\/h3>\n
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If the idea of carefully loaded, small-batch, Berger VLD varmint ammo excites you, Copper Creek is an excellent choice.<\/p><\/div>\n

Copper Creek 70-grain Berger VLD ammunition offers a slightly heavier option that blends precision and terminal effectiveness. It is well-suited for coyotes and similar-sized game, providing reliable accuracy and consistent performance across a wide range of distances.<\/span><\/p>\n

These loads are ideal for shooters who want fast, flat trajectories and explosive terminal performance on smaller targets without excessive recoil.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nVLD-BT<\/td>\n70gr<\/td>\n3,490 FPS<\/td>\n1,892 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,236 FPS\/1,628 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,997 FPS\/1,396 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,772 FPS\/1,194 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Best .22 Creedmoor Ammo: Hunting<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Hornady 80-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter<\/b><\/h3>\n
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The ELD-\u00adX bullet features a Heat Shield tip, which, in testing, has been found to improve terminal performance.<\/p><\/div>\n

Hornady 80-grain ELD-X Precision Hunter is designed to deliver controlled expansion over a wide velocity range. In .22 Creedmoor, it offers a capable option for deer-sized game when paired with proper shot placement. The ELD-X balances penetration and expansion, making it suitable for longer shots where retained velocity still matters.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nPoly<\/td>\n80gr<\/td>\n3,010 FPS<\/td>\n1,609 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,814 FPS\/1,406 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,626 FPS\/1,225 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,447 FPS\/1,063 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Hornady 65-grain CX Superformance<\/b><\/h3>\n
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Looking to add 200 fps without extra chamber pressure, recoil, or muzzle blast? CX Superformance is the answer.<\/p><\/div>\n

Hornady 65-grain CX Superformance is a monolithic copper bullet designed for deep penetration and high weight retention. This load is particularly appealing for hunters in lead-restricted areas or those who prefer barrier-blind performance. Despite its lighter weight, it delivers impressive terminal results due to its construction and velocity.<\/span><\/p>\n

These hunting-focused loads demonstrate the versatility of the .22 Creedmoor when bullet selection is matched carefully to the intended game.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n
Caliber<\/th>\nBullet Type<\/th>\nBullet Weight<\/th>\nVelocity (Muzzle)<\/th>\nEnergy (Muzzle)<\/th>\n100 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n200 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n300 Yards (Velocity\/Energy)<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
.22 Creedmoor<\/td>\nPoly<\/td>\n65gr<\/td>\n3,650 FPS<\/td>\n1,923 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,395 FPS\/1,663 FT LBS<\/td>\n3,150 FPS\/1,432 FT LBS<\/td>\n2,915 FPS\/1,226 FT LBS<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Cartridge Overview & Specifications<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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Although they share the same parent case, the 22 Creedmoor lacks the energy and stability of the 6.5 Creedmoor at distance.<\/p><\/div>\n

At its core, the .22 Creedmoor is designed to deliver extremely high velocity while maintaining stability with long, aerodynamic bullets. It offers impressive downrange performance without the recoil or shooter fatigue associated with larger calibers.<\/span><\/p>\n

Typical cartridge characteristics include a .224-inch bullet diameter, common bullet weights ranging from 65 to 85 grains, and muzzle velocities that often fall between 3,000 and 3,400 feet per second, depending on the load. The cartridge uses a short-action rifle platform and benefits from modern chamber and case geometry that promotes consistent ignition and accuracy.<\/span><\/p>\n

What truly separates the Creedmoor from other .22-caliber cartridges is its ability to push heavier bullets at high speeds while maintaining excellent ballistic efficiency. This combination makes it a great option when firing at extended distances, and you\u2019re concerned about wind drift.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

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\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
Cartridge Specs<\/th>\n.22 Creedmoor<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Parent Casing<\/td>\n6.5 Creedmoor<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Bullet Diameter<\/td>\n.224″<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Neck Diameter<\/td>\n.256″<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Base\u00a0Diameter<\/td>\n.470″<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Case Length<\/td>\n1.92″<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Overall Length<\/td>\n2.45″<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Grain Weight<\/td>\n65gr-90gr<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Max Pressure (SAMMI)<\/td>\n62,000 PSI<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n

\u00a0Ballistics Overview & Real-World Performance<\/strong><\/h2>\n

From a ballistic standpoint, the .22 Creedmoor excels in situations where stability against wind and consistency matter more than raw energy. When you opt for a bullet with a high ballistic coefficient, the cartridge will deliver a flatter trajectory and less wind drift than many larger calibers.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

So, why are so many shooters jumping on the .22 Creedmoor bandwagon? The cartridge’s velocity is a huge draw, as is the low recoil, which allows them to make on-the-fly adjustments. This is especially useful in competition settings.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Want to use the cartridge for hunting? You\u2019ll find that the .22 Creedmoor offers forgiving external ballistics, particularly when shooting at ranges well beyond the 300-yard mark.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The cartridge\u2019s efficiency also means it retains velocity exceptionally well, helping maintain predictable bullet behavior at longer ranges. Many cartridges stay supersonic beyond 1,000 yards, which is a huge deal. This consistency is one of the primary reasons the .22 Creedmoor has become so popular among precision-focused shooters.<\/span><\/p>\n

How Bullet Weight & Construction Affect Performance<\/strong><\/h3>\n

When choosing a .22 Creedmoor cartridge, or any cartridge for that matter, the biggest consideration is what you\u2019ll be using your rifle for. The weight and construction of the bullet will impact velocity, wind drift, penetration, and terminal performance.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Lighter bullets, generally in the 65- to 70-grain range, offer higher muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories at shorter distances. These loads are often preferred for varmint hunting and situations where rapid expansion or fragmentation is desired.<\/span><\/p>\n

Heavier bullets, typically 80 to 85 grains, sacrifice some initial velocity in exchange for higher ballistic coefficients and superior wind resistance. These loads are favored for precision shooting and long-range applications where consistency and predictability are critical.<\/span><\/p>\n

Bullet construction is just as important as weight. Match bullets are designed for accuracy and consistency, not terminal performance. Varmint bullets prioritize rapid expansion, while hunting bullets are engineered to offer a good mix of penetration and controlled expansion for ethical kills on game animals.<\/span><\/p>\n

Pros & Cons: 22 Creedmoor<\/strong><\/h2>\n
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You’ll need a fast-twist barrel to get the highest levels of performance out of your .22 Creedmoor rifle.<\/p><\/div>\n

The advantages of this Creedmoor round include:\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n