Description
You’re sighted in, the buck is broadside at 80 yards, and you need a muzzleloader bullet that won’t break the bank but will still deliver. That’s the exact scenario where the Hornady SST Muzzleloading Bullets .45 Caliber, .400 Diameter, 200gr, 20qty pack makes its case. It’s a budget-friendly, high-performance projectile designed for modern in-line muzzleloaders, offering a balance of accuracy, reliable expansion, and cost-effectiveness that’s hard to beat for the value-conscious hunter.
What is it? The Hornady SST Muzzleloading Bullets .45 Caliber, .400 Diameter, 200gr, 20qty is a box of twenty saboted, polymer-tipped bullets for .45 caliber muzzleloaders. Each bullet features a .400″ diameter, 200-grain weight, and a Heat-Activated tip for controlled expansion. They are designed for use with 209 shotshell primers and smokeless powder or black powder substitutes in compatible modern in-line rifles.
Key Features & Practical Value
Let’s talk about what you’re really getting for your money. The core of this bullet is its famous SST (Super Shock Tip) design, borrowed from Hornady’s centerfire rifle line. The red polymer tip serves two critical, budget-conscious purposes. First, it initiates rapid, controlled expansion upon impact, creating a large wound channel for ethical takedowns. Second—and just as important for your wallet—it provides a high ballistic coefficient for its weight. That means it bucks wind better and retains velocity and energy downrange compared to a flat-nose bullet of similar weight. You get more consistent performance at longer distances without paying for a premium custom bullet.
The 200-grain weight is a sweet spot for many hunters. It offers a flatter trajectory than heavier 250 or 300-grain options, which can be a real advantage if you’re not a fan of complex holdovers. It also typically generates less recoil, making practice sessions more pleasant and affordable when you’re not burning through expensive propellants. The saboted design is a major plus for convenience. The included, color-coded sabot makes loading smooth and consistent shot-to-shot, which directly translates to better accuracy. Here’s the thing—it’s drop-in ready for rifles like the CVA Wolf or Optima, and Thompson/Center Triumph or Impact series. You don’t need special tools or modifications, just a proper cleaning routine.
At a price of $10.33 for a box of twenty, you’re looking at just over fifty cents per projectile. When you compare that to many other premium-brand saboted bullets, the value proposition becomes clear. You’re getting Hornady’s proven terminal performance technology without the premium price tag often associated with it. This is where the ‘bang-for-buck’ metric truly shines. For hunters who might go through a box sighting in and then take one or two shots during the season, this package minimizes waste and maximizes the utility of every dollar spent.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 |
| Bullet Diameter | .400″ |
| Bullet Weight | 200 Grains |
| Quantity per Box | 20 |
| Tip Type | Red Polymer SST (Heat-Activated) |
| Construction | Jacketed Lead Core with Sabot |
Pros, Cons, and Who It’s For
Pros: Excellent cost-per-round value. Proven SST expansion technology. Good ballistic coefficient for the weight. Saboted for easy loading and consistent accuracy. Compatible with a wide range of common .45 caliber in-line muzzleloaders. Generates manageable recoil, aiding shot placement.
Cons: The 200-grain weight may not be the preferred choice for hunters pursuing larger game like elk where a heavier bullet is often recommended. As with any saboted bullet, performance can be influenced by barrel fouling, necessitating consistent cleaning between shots during range sessions.
This pack is ideal for the Missouri whitetail hunter or target shooter who uses a .45 caliber in-line muzzleloader and wants reliable, effective performance without overspending. It’s perfect for those who value a flat trajectory for woods and field shooting, and for shooters who want a quality brand name but need to keep their ammunition costs reasonable. This product is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide where compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What powder charge is recommended for these 200gr SST bullets?
A: Always consult your rifle’s manual first. However, these bullets are commonly used with charges between 90 to 110 grains (by volume) of black powder substitutes like Pyrodex or Triple Seven, or according to manufacturer guidelines for smokeless powder muzzleloaders. Start at the lower end for accuracy testing.
Q: Will these work in my .50 caliber muzzleloader?
A: No. These are specifically designed for .45 caliber muzzleloader barrels. The .400″ diameter bullet is housed in a sabot that seals the .45 caliber bore. Using them in a .50 caliber rifle would be unsafe and inaccurate.
Q: Are these suitable for elk or bear hunting?
A: While the SST is an effective design, many hunters prefer a heavier bullet (250gr or more) for larger game like elk for deeper penetration. The 200gr SST is an excellent and popular choice for deer-sized game, but you should check your local regulations and consider the game you’re pursuing.
If you need a dependable, affordable bullet to feed your .45 caliber muzzleloader this season, this Hornady SST pack deserves a close look.
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