22 Caliber Rifle Bullets for Sale (.224")

Varmint, Target & Precision Shooting Loads
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Hey — Bill with Raven Rocks Precision. Today I’m looking at .22-caliber bullet options, one of the most popular bullet calibers in the world. They’re commonly loaded in .223 Remington and, of course, 5.56 NATO, as well as many other .22-caliber rifle chamberings that use bullets of similar weight. Click to read entire video transcription

Why is it so popular? A few reasons: it’s common, economical to load compared with some larger, heavier-bullet options, and widely available. In front of me I have four different options we’ll discuss, plus a few others. Let’s start with use cases. Defensive and hunting roles are obvious fits, and there’s some crossover between match bullets (like 77-grain OTMs) and defensive or hunting bullets.

First, what I call the “Swedish V-Max.” These Norma Tip Strike bullets are made in Sweden. They’re a premium hunting bullet with a polymer tip and a vented jacket — excellent for varmint hunting and offering explosive terminal performance on target. They could also serve a defensive role.

Next, along the hunting line, something a bit more unusual: a 100-grain protected-point, flat-based bullet. What’s notable is the weight — 100 grains is very heavy for a .22-caliber bullet, so you’ll want a fast twist rate like 1:7 to stabilize them. That weight gives handloaders versatility: you can load them up to around 2,200 ft/s or try experimenting with subsonic loads. One of the coolest parts of handloading is having options you don’t get off the shelf.

Now for match-grade options. I can’t leave Berger out of the equation — one of the most popular match-grade bullet makers. The long-range hybrid target bullets are 85.5 grains and recommend a minimum twist of 1:8. They’re a staple in precision shooting: more expensive, but an excellent OEM to start with if you’re chasing precision.

If you’re looking for very high ballistic coefficient bullets, Nosler RDFs are a good option — another way to load precise rifle ammunition. They’re somewhat economical at the price point compared with other high-BC choices. That leaves two common things people do with .22 caliber. First: shoot a lot. That’s where bulk FMJ 55- and 62-grain bullets come in — they let people load large quantities of inexpensive ammo for training and practice when match performance isn’t required. Several manufacturers produce these; LTS is one brand gaining popularity in the United States.

Second: frangible bullets. Scepter 35-grain frangibles are a popular choice and can be loaded at relatively low velocities for specific applications. Overall, these are popular bullet choices, but more importantly .22 caliber as a whole has a huge following. It’s widely available and will continue to be enjoyed by shooters for a long time. Read Less

When it comes to 22 caliber rifle bullets for sale, few calibers offer the versatility of the .224-inch projectile. These bullets power everything from lightweight varmint rifles to AR-platform favorites like the .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO. Whether you’re a reloader fine-tuning your next match load or a varmint hunter looking for precision, Raven Rocks Precision carries the brands and bullet types you already trust: Sierra, Barnes, Nosler, Norma, Mead, and more.

Overview — What “22 Caliber” Means

“22 caliber” refers to bullets with a .224-inch diameter, used in popular cartridges such as .223 Remington, .22-250 Remington, and .220 Swift. These bullets are prized for their flat trajectories, mild recoil, and accuracy, making them ideal for varmint control, competitive shooting, and general range use.

FAQ — 22 Caliber Rifle Bullets for Sale

Are all .22 caliber bullets .224"?


Nearly all modern centerfire .22 rifle bullets are .224″. Russian 5.45×39 bullets are sized .220”. Always confirm before loading.

We recommend that you try a selection and see what your rifle likes best. We have great prices on options like Norma Tipstrike that combine performance with cost effectiveness.

Yes, especially for practice loads. LTS makes a very popular 55gr FMJ that many of our high volume customers love.

For bullets heavier than 69gr, use a barrel with a 1:8″ or faster twist rate for proper stabilization.

Match bullets like Nosler Custom Competition or Sierra MatchKing are designed for accuracy, not expansion. Use hunting bullets for ethical kills.

Types of 22 Caliber Rifle Bullets for Sale

Ballistic Tip and Soft Point Bullets

At Raven Rocks Precision, our jacketed .22 caliber lineup includes both hunting and precision match bullets from top brands. Ballistic tip and Soft Point bullets are commonly used for varmint hunting and defensive purposes in which bullets are required to

  • Norma: TipStrike in 55gr for explosive expansion on varmints and small predators.
  • Mead: 100gr Protected Point Soft Base for heavy hitting performance in 223 Remington chambered rifles.

If you’re looking for an aerodynamic bullet that dumps all of it’s energy on target on impact, then be sure to check out the Norma TipStrike line.

Bonded Bullets

At Raven Rocks Precision, we feature some extremely tough bonded bullets at competitive prices. These bullets have a jacket that is chemically bonded to the bullet’s core to increase weight retention and improve barrier penetration performance.

  • Norma: Oryx in 55gr for a hunting bullet that excels in calibers like 22-250 Remington
  • Nosler: 64gr Bonded Solid Base featuring AccuBond technology, and trusted by the FBI Hostage Rescue Team for incredible performance when lives are on the line.

If you’re looking for a 22 caliber bullet that won’t let you down in the toughest of environments, consider investing in bonded bullets.

Match Grade Bullets – Hollow Point Boat Tail (HPBT)

At Raven Rocks Precision, we have incredible prices on a handful of match grade 22 caliber bullets. Our bullet selection will extend your training time and ensure you’re ready for your next match.

  • Barnes: 77gr HPBT Matchburner. At one of the most competitive prices on the market, these bullets will rival any other 77gr on the market
  • Mead: 77gr HPBT warm-ups – with such a high standard for QC, these seconds will outperform many factory firsts.
  • Nosler 70gr RDF – Featuring an ultra high BC, these bullets are one of our most popular sellers.
  • Berger – Multiple options to choose from, all extremely well regarded and used in competitions around the world.

If you’re chasing precision in a 22 caliber rifle, we have selections that will allow you to hone your skills.

Lead-Free Bullets

For reloaders who want to something unique, Raven Rocks has it

  • Inceptor – 35gr Short Range Rifle (SRR) frangible. These copper-polymer matrix bullets are perfect for close quarters training where frangibility on steel targets is imperative.

Frangible bullets provide a unique training option that keeps shooters safer from the effects of ricochets.

FMJ Bullets

For reloaders who want to shoot more for less, FMJ bullets provide reliable function at a lower cost.

  • LTS: 55gr FMJ-BT .224 bullets — a solid choice for affordable, high-volume range training or just fun. These made in America bullets are a popular choice for many OEM loaders.

Consistency is key for good FMJ bullets, and LTS doesn’t disappoint.

Common Bullet Weights & Uses

Bullet Weight Best Use Common Brands
40 gr Ultra-light varmint and small game Hornady, Sierra
52–55 gr General-purpose loads, training, and some match accuracy options. Hornady, Sierra, Nosler, LTS, Norma
62–70 gr Duty / Self Defense and match options Nosler, Sierra
70 gr + Heavy match bullets for fast-twist barrels, many match grade options Nosler, Barnes, Sierra, Berger

(Always confirm your barrel’s twist rate — 1:9 handles up to 69gr well, while 1:8 or faster is better for 77gr.)

Reloading Notes (Short & Practical)

  • Brass & Primers: Use quality brass (Norma, SwissP, Lapua) and small rifle primers (some prefer magnum for semi-auto rifles)
  • Powders: CFE 223, Varget, and H335 are all proven performers for .224 bullets.
  • Seating Depth: Keep overall length consistent for reliable feeding in semi-autos, unless you’re running a bolt gun.

As always, follow published load data and adjust gradually while watching for pressure signs.

Where to Buy 22 Caliber Rifle Bullets for Sale

At Raven Rocks Precision, we stock:

  • Norma 22 caliber bullets (Tipstrike and Oryx).
  • Sierra bullets (GameKing and MatchKing).
  • Nosler bullets (RDF).
  • Barnes bullets (Matchburners)
  • Mead bullets
  • LTS bullets (FMJ-BT)
  • Inceptor bullets (SRR)
  • Reloading components like brass, primers, and powders to complete your setup.

Inventory moves fast — sign up for restock notifications to get alerts when new shipments arrive.

Bill’s Key Takeaway

I’ve spent years working with reloaders, varmint hunters, and match shooters, and one thing I’ve learned is that the right bullet weight and construction matter more than brand loyalty. That’s why every article now ends with “Bill’s Key Takeaway” — my short, no-nonsense takeaway for anyone loading their own ammo.

Here it is: when you’re browsing 22 caliber rifle bullets for sale, go light for varmints, mid-weight for general use, and heavy for precision. Use well made FMJ bullets for high-volume training and save your premium jacketed bullets for serious shooting. Pick smart, load safe, and keep your barrel warm.

Picture of Bill Bogner

Bill Bogner

Co-Founder, Raven Rocks Precision

Bill Bogner is the co-founder of Raven Rocks Precision and a recognized expert in reloading supplies and ammunition performance. With a hands-on approach and years of industry experience, Bill has helped establish Raven Rocks as a trusted source for high-quality projectiles among reloaders, instructors, and competitive shooters. This content was created by Bill, with the assistance of AI to ensure clarity, accuracy, and accessibility.