Since I play with the Hornet quite a bit, I'll chime in. One of my favorite Contender barrels is a 10 inch Hornet that I rechambered to the K version. I got it for IHMSA field pistol matches, but since we're not shooting those anymore around here I mostly use it for NRA Hunter Pistol now. Pretty much the same thing, anyway. Never shot any living thing with it, so can't comment on what it does to them.
As for accuracy, it'll easily do 1 inch at 100 yds, and I can hit the end of a pop can most of the time at 200.
I would probably limit it to 150 yards on groundhogs, and 100 on coyotes. Beyond that it's losing energy pretty fast.
Never tried the V Max ammo or any other factory ammo. Anymore I use only cast bullets in it, but in the past I've used the light Blitzkings, and V max bullets to good effect. The 55gr. FMJBT bullets are great for silhouettes.
The highest velocity comes with Lil' Gun powder, but I use mostly surplus WC820 in mine.
As for experiences, make sure your gun has proper headspace. I've never seen a Contender that was headspaced correctly in 22 Hornet, and if it is excessive the brass will break in half regularly. Other than that, keep in mind you want accuracy over raw power and probably don't need to push the limits. Loaded properly, the Hornet can be extremely accurate but it is quite fussy about how it's fed. .2 grains of powder will sometimes change the groups by a huge amount, so be particular when you're working up loads and use a good quality powder measure.
Enjoy!