cheap ammo

[59f100292]

Im looking to get a cheap varmint set up - most likely a NEF Handi single shot.  I don't reload and all of my shots will be under 200 yards on ground hogs rabbits or fox - not worried about the pelts.   What is the cheapest round to use in the 218, 219, 220, 221, 222, 223, 22-250, 204 area?

[mcwoodduck]

Out of the list 223.
not on the list is 22 Hornet.  Good middle ground gun.
Box of 50 around $30

[LaOtto222]

IMHO - the 223 hands down. If you buy factory ammo, it is as cheap or cheaper than equivalent any thing. If you hand load it is as cheap as a 22 Hornet if you factor in case life. I own 22 Hornet, 221 FB, 222 and 223 that are on your list; for an all round gun the 223 is my favorite - I like them all and have fun with all of them, but for overall performance and cheapness to shoot, you just can't beat the 223 Rem. Good Luck and Good Shooting

[PHATINJUN]

Being that you don't reload I would go with the 223 also then the 22-250 and the 204

[wreckhog]

FMJ 55gr.223 is the cheapest bulk ammo. Often the cheaper plinking stuff is out of stock these days. 22-250 hunting ammo is usually in stock.

[tykempster]

You can get the Remington value packs in 204, 223, 22-250, and maybe more.  They are all about the same price in my area.

[krod47nw]

The 223, 22-250 and 204 are the only ones on your list that are currently available in a Handi.  out of those 3, 223 is the cheapest.

Kevin 

[myarmor]

I have to agree on the 223. A very large offering from all companies, and most likely to be the cheaper.




-Aaron

[mitch132]

As everyone has already said, the .223 Rem wins. Also to consider for the non-handloader is the fact that match ammo is available for the .223 and is found in at least one store in most areas. Not necessary since most of the cheaper ammo preforms well enough, but a nice option to have if you like to experiment.

[Rustyinfla]

  .223 is the most inexpensive due to the amounts of it that  they manufacturer. There is also the greatest variety of loadings for it as well.

[59f100292]

Call me stupid but I wasnt even aware handi's were mae anymore - just kinda assumed they died when rem took over - talk about throwin a stick in my spokes,  I was all content with buyin a used one and now I gotta decided if it's worth the money for a new one.

[rickt300]

Years ago I had owned a Topper 158 in 30-30 and 20 gauge, my dad talked me out of it and still has it. I decided to get a handi in 44 magnum and now I have 4 barrels and it is at the factory right now getting a new barrel fitted.  I have shot this toy more than any other this year, at least 600 rounds, really depleted my 44 caliber bullet inventory and caused me to get back into casting. 

[PHATINJUN]

59 you been hidin under a rock Kurt

[vincewarde]

+1 for the .223.  It is the cheapest if you don't reload, and cheapest if you do. 

Any cartridge that is US Military, especially if it is being used currently, if going to be a good bet.  Of the centerfire rifle cartridges adopted by the US, only the .30-40 Krag has not been a hit.  45-70, 30-06, .308 and .223 are all popular and the last two have both milsurp ammo and components available.  Almost all my .223 and .308 brass is milsurp.

Even my 8x57's, 7.62x54r's and my 7.5x55 Swiss benefit from their military roots - and I have recently bought milsurp ammo in each of these calibers.  I was really happy to find GP11 Ammo for my k31!

[PHATINJUN]

I'll beg your pardon on the 30-40Krag my handi is a blast to shoot and accurate as all get out ;)Kurt

[Masterblaster1]

Cheap ammo is currently an extinct species..... a 50 round box of 22 lr that used to cost 89cents is now about three and half bucks

[wreckhog]

Cheap .223 is tough. I got a silly amount of 30-06 from CMP last month for 30-50% less than mil surp M193 5.56 typically costs now. Steel case new production .223 can still be found for $175/500 plus or minus $20. Typically not recommended for Handis, AR's, etc except when it works....lol The best deal on .223 is 55gr fmj Federal 100 packs at Walmart for $42 plus tax. Sells real fast.

I have commited to reloading store bought lead bullets in Handi pistol calibers in a cheap press for plinking. There are costs to ramp up, but after 1000 rounds it is all downhill.