Hornady® Superformance® Varmint – .204 Ruger
Lightning Speed. Devastating Precision. Flat-Shooting Performance.
Hornady’s Superformance® Varmint line is engineered for extreme velocity and maximum terminal effect—ideal for predator control and varmint hunting across long distances. This .204 Ruger offering is available in two load options: the explosive 40gr V-MAX® and the lead-free 24gr NTX®. Both are powered by Hornady’s Superformance® propellant, delivering speeds up to 200 FPS faster than standard loads—all without added pressure or excessive barrel wear.
A Brief History of the .204 Ruger
The .204 Ruger was introduced in 2004 through a joint development between Hornady and Ruger. It is based on the .222 Remington Magnum case, necked down to accept a .204 caliber (5mm) projectile. This design allows for high velocities with minimal recoil, enabling flat trajectories and excellent long-range accuracy. The .204 Ruger quickly gained traction among varmint and predator hunters for its combination of speed, precision, and mild shooting characteristics. Its popularity continues to grow, particularly with reloaders and shooters looking for high-volume, low-recoil, high-velocity performance.
Load Option 1: 40gr V-MAX®
Cartridge: .204 Ruger
Bullet: 40gr Hornady V-MAX®
Muzzle Velocity: 3,900 FPS (factory spec; 26" test barrel)
Case Type: Brass (Reloadable)
Primer Type: Boxer
Lead-Free: No
Intended Use: Varmint / Predator Hunting
Country of Origin: United States of America
Rounds per Box: 20
Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.275
Recommended Twist Rate: 1:12 or fasterFeatures
Blistering Speed: Up to 200 FPS faster than standard .204 Ruger loads
Explosive Terminal Effect: The V-MAX® bullet is designed to expand rapidly for devastating on-impact performance
Match-Grade Accuracy: Uniform construction and high velocity result in tight groups, even at extended ranges
Versatile Compatibility: Safe for use in bolt actions and semi-auto platforms
Load Option 2: 24gr NTX® (Lead-Free)
Cartridge: .204 Ruger
Bullet: 24gr Hornady NTX® (Non-Toxic Expanding)
Muzzle Velocity: 4,400 FPS (factory spec; 26" test barrel)
Muzzle Energy: 1,032 ft-lbs
Case Type: Brass (Reloadable)
Primer Type: Boxer
Lead-Free: Yes
Intended Use: Lead-restricted zones / Varmint & Predator Hunting
Country of Origin: United States of America
Rounds per Box: 20
Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.200
Recommended Twist Rate: 1:12 or fasterFeatures
Lead-Free Impact: The NTX® bullet delivers ethical terminal performance in areas where traditional bullets are prohibited
Velocity Advantage: With a blistering 4,400 FPS, this is one of the fastest factory-loaded .204 Ruger rounds available
Flat Trajectory: Ideal for long shots with minimal drop or wind drift
Safe & Reliable: Proven to function consistently in both bolt-action and semi-auto rifles
Velocity Testing
Real-world velocity testing is currently underway and will be published soon. Results will include multiple barrel lengths, average SD values, and observed field consistency.
Legal Notice
You must be 18 years or older to purchase rifle ammunition
Always confirm your firearm is chambered in .204 Ruger
All ammunition sales are final
Know and comply with your local and state laws before ordering
⚠️ Contains lead (V-MAX load) – use proper precautions when handling and shooting