Hornady 81531 Varmint Express 224 Valkyrie 60gr V-MAX Ammo

The Hornady 81531 Varmint Express ammunition delivers exceptional long-range accuracy for varmint hunters and precision shooters. This 224 Valkyrie cartridge combines Hornady's proven V-MAX bullet technology with optimized powder charges for flat trajectories and explosive terminal performance on prairie dogs, coyotes, and other small game.

What Makes This Different

The 224 Valkyrie cartridge outperforms traditional varmint rounds with superior ballistic coefficients and retained energy at extended distances. While standard 223 Remington loses effectiveness beyond 300 yards, the 224 Valkyrie maintains lethal velocity past 500 yards. The 60-grain V-MAX bullet features a polymer tip that initiates rapid expansion upon impact, creating devastating wound channels in varmints while minimizing pelt damage.

Key Features

• 60-grain V-MAX bullet with polymer tip for rapid expansion
• 224 Valkyrie caliber optimized for long-range varmint hunting
• Ballistic coefficient of .265 for flat trajectory performance
• Muzzle velocity of 3,300 feet per second from 24-inch barrel
• Premium brass cases with consistent wall thickness
• 20 rounds per box, 10 boxes per case (200 total rounds)
• Compatible with AR-15 platform rifles and bolt-action varmint rifles

Field testing demonstrates consistent sub-MOA accuracy from quality rifles, with retained energy exceeding 800 foot-pounds at 300 yards. The cartridge excels in windy conditions where its high ballistic coefficient reduces wind drift compared to lighter bullets. Hunters report clean kills on coyotes at ranges exceeding 400 yards, while prairie dog shooters appreciate the explosive terminal effects that provide immediate feedback on hits.

Technical Specs

• Caliber: 224 Valkyrie
• Bullet Weight: 60 grains
• Bullet Type: V-MAX polymer tip
• Muzzle Velocity: 3,300 fps (24-inch barrel)
• Muzzle Energy: 1,449 foot-pounds
• Ballistic Coefficient: .265 (G1)
• Case Material: Brass
• Primer Type: Small rifle
• Quantity: 20 rounds per box, 200 rounds per case
• Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing

This ammunition represents the pinnacle of varmint cartridge development, combining modern ballistic science with proven bullet technology. Serious varmint hunters who demand consistent accuracy and terminal performance at extended ranges will find the 224 Valkyrie delivers measurable advantages over traditional cartridges.