Onion tenderization: H&N Barracuda Hunter Extreme vs H&N Hornets in .177

[Blackpaw]

Okay right now having a new gun, a Brocock Compatto Sniper XR I am of course wanting to test it out with different pellets. Being a hunter / science geek at heart, I want something that will be effective on quarry when I have the chance in the Fall when I go home to Idaho. PS also seriously amusing myself waiting hunter field target season to start. (Sorry no photos this time / purely observation.)

Specs:

- Gun: Brocock Compatto Sniper XR in .177 / 4.5 mm & power setting high 18 ft/lbs (24 joules)

- Pellets: H&N Hornets and Barracuda Hunter Extreme HP

- FX pocket chronograph

- Test media: medium sized onions

Today I went to Krale here in the Netherlands and bought some H&N Hornets in .177. They look cool and some of the reviews love them. However, I decided to do my own testing. Both pellets were in the 900-930 FPS. I shot four onions, two pellet types each, and did a “tenderization feel” test.

Well, I am disappointed in the H&N Hornets, at least considering the following criteria: Cost more, slower and onion tenderized less = less explosive power than the cheaper H&N Barracuda Hunter Extremes HP.

Thus I feel for up to cotton tail / jack rabbit the Barracuda’s will be the way to go.

 

[intenseaty22]

I actually like the Hornets a lot. At least in .22 cal they have performed very well for me. They may pass straight through, but they give you excellent penetration. I shot a squirrel once on the shoulder, it sailed right through, side to side, no energy dump. But the squirrel fell from that tree instantly dying. Not even a quiver. 

& Do you realize how many people here would love to saw that! “I walked into Krale today” I’d be like a kid in a candy store!