Was the Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count Worth It?
After more than a decade in gear and equipment, I’ve learned that precision and performance, especially in projectile technology, are paramount. My search for a reliable bullet for smaller caliber varmint and small game hunting, specifically in the .20 caliber range, led me to the Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count. The promise of explosive expansion coupled with the accuracy Sierra is known for was a powerful draw. My previous reliance on less specialized projectiles often resulted in over-penetration and less-than-ideal terminal ballistics on smaller quarry.
The initial impression upon opening the box was one of professional quality. The bullets themselves, while small, exhibit a consistent form factor, a hallmark of reputable ammunition manufacturers. I had considered other brands specializing in varmint rounds, but Sierra’s reputation for precision reloading components tipped the scales. My first reaction was a surge of anticipation, a feeling that I was holding a tool designed for a specific, demanding task.
Real-World Testing: Putting Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count to the Test
My testing grounds were varied, spanning open fields at dawn for prairie dog eradication and carefully managed woodland edges for pest control. I loaded these BlitzKings into my preferred .204 Ruger platform, a rifle known for its inherent accuracy and speed. These bullets were primarily tested at ranges between 100 and 300 yards, simulating typical varmint hunting scenarios.
The performance across these distances was consistently impressive. Muzzle velocities from my rifle hovered in the upper end of the recommended range, consistently around 4000 fps. This resulted in rapid and decisive terminal effects on target.
First Use Experience
The first time I headed to the range with reloads featuring these specific bullets, the difference was palpable. Loading them into the chamber felt smooth, and the seating depth in my handloads was uniform. The initial shots immediately demonstrated an accuracy potential that was frankly outstanding for a bullet designed for rapid expansion.
There were no significant surprises on the first outing, which is a testament to their consistent manufacturing. The only minor quirk was a slight difference in seating depth compared to some older handloads, requiring a small adjustment in my press settings. This was easily rectified and, in fact, contributed to a more uniform load.
Extended Use & Reliability
Months of use have transformed my initial impressions into firm convictions. These BlitzKings have become my go-to for .20 caliber varmint duties. Whether it’s been a day spent culling ground squirrels or a longer trip targeting prairie dogs, their performance has remained stellar.
Durability of the bullet itself, of course, is less of a concern than its performance upon impact. However, the consistency of expansion and accuracy across hundreds of rounds indicates no degradation in manufacturing quality over time. They store well and show no signs of damage even when handled frequently during reloading sessions.
Compared to some other varmint bullets I’ve used in this caliber, these Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count offer a superior balance of speed, accuracy, and rapid expansion. Cheaper alternatives often sacrifice accuracy for expansion, or vice-versa, leading to inconsistent results. These bullets, however, seem to hit a sweet spot.
Breaking Down the Features of Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count
The Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count are engineered for a singular purpose: effective varmint dispatch with remarkable accuracy. Their design philosophy centers on delivering rapid energy transfer and fragmentation upon impact. This translates directly into cleaner kills and less suffering for the targeted pests.
Specifications
The core specification of this product is its 32 grain weight and .204 inch diameter. These parameters are crucial for achieving high ballistic coefficients and velocities in smaller caliber rifles. The Flat Base (FB) design contributes to ease of reloading and consistent chambering.
Sierra has meticulously designed these bullets with a thin jacket and a proprietary tip compound. This combination is intended to promote rapid and violent expansion. The stated muzzle velocity capability of up to 4400 fps for lighter .20 caliber bullets is a key performance indicator.
The Ballistic Coefficients (BC) provided are velocity-dependent, ranging from .221 at 3950 fps and above down to .179 at 1750 fps. This indicates their optimal performance window at higher velocities typical of .20 caliber cartridges. The 500 count packaging makes them ideal for serious reloaders.
Performance & Functionality
In practical terms, the performance of the Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count is exceptional for their intended role. They consistently produce tight groups at the range, often exceeding the accuracy of bullets designed purely for rapid expansion. Upon impact with varmints, they reliably fragment, creating a significant wound channel.
Their main job is to expand explosively and reliably, and they excel at this. The primary strength is the combination of speed, accuracy, and terminal effect. A potential weakness, though minor, could be their limited performance at extreme ranges or in very heavy-bodied game, which they are not designed for.
These bullets meet and exceed expectations for varmint hunting. The velocity window they operate in allows for incredibly flat trajectories, making long-range shots more manageable. Their effective range for clean kills is broad within the confines of typical varmint shooting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of these bullets is focused on function over form. The thin jacket and proprietary tip are the key elements contributing to their rapid expansion. The flat base design aids in consistent seating within cartridge cases.
While “ergonomics” isn’t directly applicable to bullets, the uniformity of manufacturing is paramount for a handloader. Each bullet feels solid and well-formed, indicating precise quality control. The lack of any extraneous features simplifies their integration into the reloading process.
The overall build quality is evident in their consistent weight and dimensions. This meticulous manufacturing ensures that handloads will behave predictably shot after shot. There are no visible flaws, and the finish is consistent across the entire batch.
Durability & Maintenance
As ammunition components, these bullets are designed for single use upon firing. Their durability as stored items is excellent, provided they are kept in a dry environment. Standard ammunition storage practices are sufficient.
Maintenance for bullets is non-existent in the traditional sense. The concern is more about maintaining the integrity of the reloaded cartridge. This includes proper case preparation and consistent powder charges, ensuring the bullet performs as designed.
There are no obvious failure points inherent to the bullet design itself. Their performance is entirely dependent on the quality of the handload and the intended target. Potential issues would stem from improper loading practices rather than inherent defects in the bullets.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count do not come with accessories, nor do they have direct “customization options” in the way a firearm might. However, their compatibility with various reloading components is a form of customization in itself.
Reloaders can customize their ammunition by selecting specific powders, primers, and seating depths. This allows for fine-tuning the ballistics and performance to match particular rifles and shooting conditions. The 500-count packaging is a practical choice for those who reload extensively.
Their standard .204 diameter means they are compatible with a wide range of reloading dies and equipment. This broad compatibility makes them accessible to a large segment of the handloading community. The lack of Moly-Coating is a design choice that simplifies cleaning for many shooters.
Pros and Cons of Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: These bullets deliver sub-MOA accuracy at typical varmint hunting distances.
- Rapid Expansion: Designed for explosive fragmentation, ensuring quick and ethical kills on small game.
- High Velocity Capability: Capable of withstanding velocities up to 4400 fps, enabling flat trajectories.
- Consistent Manufacturing: Sierra’s reputation for quality control ensures uniformity across the entire 500 count package.
- Optimized for Varmints: Specifically engineered for the needs of small game and pest control.
Cons
- Limited Game Application: Not suitable for larger game due to their rapid expansion and fragmentation.
- Requires Reloading: These are not loaded cartridges, necessitating reloading equipment and expertise.
- Price Point: While not exorbitant, they are a premium component compared to some bulk options.
Who Should Buy Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count?
The Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count are ideal for experienced riflemen and reloaders who engage in varmint and small game hunting. If you own a .20 caliber rifle (like the .204 Ruger) and prioritize ethical, efficient takedowns of pests like prairie dogs, ground squirrels, or rabbits, these are an excellent choice. They are particularly suited for those who value accuracy and rapid terminal ballistics.
Individuals who require bullets for larger game, or those who prefer factory-loaded ammunition, should look elsewhere. This product is for the dedicated handloader who understands cartridge construction and terminal ballistics. For maximum effectiveness, pairing these bullets with a quality rifle, a well-calibrated reloading press, and appropriate load data is essential.
Conclusion on Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count
The Sierra Bullets BlitzKing 32 gr. .20 Cal FB Rifle Bullets, 500 Count are, in my professional opinion, an outstanding component for any handloader serious about .20 caliber varmint hunting. They deliver on their promise of accuracy and explosive expansion, consistently providing clean kills at velocities that make for a flat trajectory. The quality of manufacturing is apparent in every round, ensuring reliability and predictability in handloads.
Considering the price per bullet within the 500 count package, the value proposition is strong, especially when weighed against the performance and consistent results they yield. If you are a dedicated varmint hunter with a .20 caliber rifle and the capability to reload, I would highly recommend these bullets. They represent a near-perfect fusion of Sierra’s renowned accuracy with specialized, high-performance terminal ballistics for small game.