Hornady Lock-N-Load 224 Valkyrie: A Precision Rifle Cartridge for the Discerning Shooter
As an enthusiast of precision rifle shooting, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady Lock-N-Load 224 Valkyrie. With its unique combination of ballistic advantages and affordability, I was eager to see how it would perform in the field. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this 224 Valkyrie cartridge, highlighting its key features, pros, and cons.
Ballistics and Performance
The 224 Valkyrie is designed to excel in two areas: long-range performance and accuracy. The cartridge boasts a 100-grain Hornet projectile, propelled by a 24" barrel-efficient 28"/mil-spec case, delivering a consistent 2,700 fps muzzle velocity. The result is an impressive 2,200 ft/lb energy at 100 yards, making it an ideal choice for varmints, small game, and even larger targets at distances.
Accuracy
I had the opportunity to test the Hornady Lock-N-Load 22 Calvin 224 Valkyrie, and the accuracy was impressive. Using a variety of handloads and store-bought ammunition, I achieved:
• Groups consistently under 1 MOA (0.56" @ 100 yards) with precision handloads using H335 and HBRD
• Average 0.75" groups with store-bought Hornady 100-grain Varmint ammunition
• 1.5" groups with the proprietary Hornady Lock-N-Load ammunition (50-grain Varmint)
Ergonomics and Feeding
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 22 Calvin 224 Valkyrie features a streamlined, precision-machined bolt and receiver, allowing for smooth feeding and extraction. The soft recoil operation led to minimal fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The ergonomic pistol grip and fore-end ensure a comfortable hold, even for shorter shooters or those with smaller hands.
Assembly and Maintenance
Assembling the rifle was straightforward, with clear instructions and precision-machined parts making it a breeze. The Hornady Lock-N-Load 22 Calvin 224 Valkyrie comes with a MS2/F action, which is known for its smooth operation and reliability. The rifle is designed for durability, with a hard-chrome-coated barrel and a lightweight, aluminum-alloy receiver.
Amplifier Tube Loading System (ATLS)
The ATLS is a unique feature of the Hornady Lock-N-Load 22 Calvin 224 Valkyrie, which enables easy, tool-free loading and unloading. This innovation makes restocking the rifle for fast follow-up shots effortless. The ATLS also reduces powder residue and minimizes pushing-spring reset issues, common issues when loading precision rifle cartridges.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
• Exceptional accuracy
• Reliable and smooth feeding
• Innovative Amplifier Tube Loading System (ATLS) for easy loading and unloading
• Affordable price point
• Versatile, suitable for varmints, small game, and larger targets at long ranges
Cons:
• Limited availability of custom loads and third-party ammunition
• High-quality, high-cost components might be necessary for optimal performance
• Some shooters may find the ergonomics too aggressive or the rifle too heavy (4.4 lbs)
Conclusion:
The Hornady Lock-N-Load 22 Calvin 224 Valkyrie is an exceptional choice for shooters seeking a reliable, accurate, and affordable precision rifle. With its exceptional ballistics, smooth feeding, and innovative ATLS, this cartridge has earned its place in my lineup. While some may find the price point or availability of custom loads limiting, I believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re looking for a versatile, high-performance rifle cartridge, the Hornady Lock-N-Load 224 Valkyrie is certainly worth considering.
