Varmint hunting is an essential activity for pest control and an excellent way to sharpen shooting skills. Whether you’re targeting small rodents or larger predators like coyotes, choosing the right ammunition is crucial for accuracy, ethical kills, and maximum performance. This varmint hunting ammo guide breaks down the best bullet grain options for different varmints to help you make an informed decision.
What is Bullet Grain & Why Does It Matter?
Bullet grain (gr) refers to the weight of a bullet, with 1 grain equal to approximately 1/7000th of a pound. The weight affects velocity, penetration, and impact energy:
- Lightweight bullets (15-55 gr): Higher velocity, less drop, ideal for small, fast-moving targets.
- Midweight bullets (55-90 gr): Good balance of speed and stopping power, suitable for medium-sized varmints.
- Heavyweight bullets (90-150+ gr): More penetration and energy, necessary for large, tough animals.
Best Ammo Grains for Common Varmints
1. Rats, Mice, and Small Ground Squirrels
Recommended Grains: 15-35 gr
Best Calibers: .17 HMR, .22 LR, .22 WMR
Why? Small rodents require lightweight, high-velocity bullets that minimize ricochet. The .17 HMR (17-grain V-MAX) is a top choice due to its precision and fragmentation upon impact.
2. Prairie Dogs & Groundhogs
Recommended Grains: 30-55 gr
Best Calibers: .223 Remington, .204 Ruger, .22-250 Remington
Why? These burrowing rodents need a flat trajectory and reliable stopping power. A .223 Remington (50-55 grain ballistic tip) ensures accuracy and high-energy transfer at long distances.
3. Coyotes & Foxes
Recommended Grains: 50-77 gr
Best Calibers: .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, .22-250 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor
Why? These predators require a bullet that expands quickly while maintaining impact energy. The .22-250 Varmit Express is a popular choice for mid-to-long range shots.
4. Bobcats & Raccoons
Recommended Grains: 55-90 gr
Best Calibers: .243 Winchester, .22-250 Remington, 6mm Creedmoor
Why? These tougher varmints need a balance of penetration and controlled expansion. The .243 Winchester (87-grain soft-point) performs well for deep penetration and ethical kills.
5. Feral Hogs
Recommended Grains: 90-150+ gr
Best Calibers: .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield
Why? Hogs have thick hides and strong bone structures, requiring heavier bullets. The .308 Winchester (150-grain soft-point) is a top pick for maximum stopping power.
Choosing the Best Varmint Hunting Ammo
When selecting ammunition for varmint hunting, consider:
Target Size – Smaller varmints need lighter bullets, while larger predators require heavier rounds.
Shot Distance – Flat-shooting rounds with higher velocity are ideal for long-range precision.
Ethical Kills – The right bullet ensures a quick, humane takedown.
Using the correct ammo grain for varmint hunting enhances accuracy, efficiency, and ethical harvesting. Whether you’re taking on prairie dogs or feral hogs, choosing the right bullet weight and caliber ensures a successful hunt every time.
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