Hornady 86243 Varmint Express 12 Gauge 2.75" 4 Buck 10 Rounds

The Hornady 86243 Varmint Express delivers consistent 4 Buck shot performance in a versatile 2.75-inch shell format. This ammunition combines Hornady's precision manufacturing with proven buckshot effectiveness for varmint control and defensive applications. Each shell contains carefully sized 4 Buck pellets that maintain tight patterns while delivering sufficient energy transfer at typical engagement distances.

What Makes This Different

Hornady's Varmint Express line emphasizes consistent shot placement through uniform pellet sizing and optimized powder charges. The 4 Buck pellet size strikes an effective balance between pellet count and individual projectile energy, providing more hits on target than larger buck sizes while maintaining superior penetration compared to smaller shot. Quality control standards ensure consistent velocities across the entire production run, reducing flyer patterns that compromise accuracy.

Key Features

• 4 Buck shot pellets optimized for varmint and medium-range applications
• 2.75-inch shell length compatible with all 12-gauge shotguns
• Consistent powder charges for uniform velocity and pattern performance
• Quality brass-plated steel heads resist corrosion and extraction issues
• High-density polyethylene hulls maintain structural integrity under pressure
• Factory-loaded to SAAMI specifications for reliable chambering and ejection
• 10-round boxes provide convenient quantities for range sessions or field use

Field performance testing demonstrates effective patterns at ranges typical for varmint hunting and property protection scenarios. The 4 Buck pellet configuration delivers approximately 27 pellets per shell, creating dense patterns within 25 yards while maintaining adequate energy for clean harvests on coyotes, foxes, and similar-sized targets. Reliable ignition occurs across temperature ranges from -20°F to 125°F, ensuring consistent performance in varied hunting conditions.

Technical Specs

• Gauge: 12 gauge
• Shell length: 2.75 inches
• Shot size: 4 Buck (.24 caliber pellets)
• Pellet count: Approximately 27 pellets per shell
• Hull material: High-density polyethylene
• Head material: Brass-plated steel
• Packaging: 10 rounds per box
• Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing

This ammunition represents proven technology from a manufacturer with decades of experience in precision loading. The consistent quality control and reliable performance characteristics make it a practical choice for shooters requiring dependable buckshot ammunition. Limited production runs of specialty ammunition like this often sell quickly during peak hunting seasons.