Product Description

H&N .22 HP Heavy Slug .218

The H&N .22 HP Heavy Slug .218 is a high-performance projectile specifically designed for air rifles, providing exceptional accuracy and impact power at long distances. Manufactured by H&N in collaboration with Air Hunter Gerhard, this slug is tailored for airgun enthusiasts who require precision and energy retention, especially for targets over 50 meters away.

Key Features and Specifications

1. Caliber and Size: The H&N Heavy Slug is available in .22 caliber (5.5mm), with a diameter of .218 inches (5.53mm). This slightly larger diameter ensures a snug fit in the barrel, which is vital for improving accuracy and stability during flight.
2. Weights and Quantities: The slugs come in various weights:
   • 34 grains (150 pieces per tin)
   • 36 grains (150 pieces per tin)
   • 38 grains (120 pieces per tin)
   • 40 grains (120 pieces per tin) Each weight offers different ballistic characteristics, allowing users to choose the ideal slug based on their air rifle’s power and the intended shooting range.
3. Optimal Power Requirements: To maximize the slug’s performance, your air rifle must produce enough power to push these heavy slugs at sufficient velocities. The manufacturer recommends a muzzle velocity of at least 900 feet per second (FPS). Rifles producing a minimum of 25 Joules of muzzle energy can use these slugs, but for best results, they recommend a range of 40–60 Joules. Rifles with lower power may not be able to achieve the flat trajectory and energy retention these slugs are designed for, making them more suitable for high-powered airguns, such as those requiring a Firearm Certificate (FAC).
4. Ballistic Performance and Accuracy: The Ballistic Coefficient (BC) of the H&N Heavy Slug is one of its standout features. A higher BC indicates the slug’s ability to cut through the air with less drag, maintaining velocity over greater distances. This ensures a flat trajectory, meaning the slug experiences less drop and wind deflection, leading to higher accuracy at extended ranges.The partnership with Air Hunter Gerhard focused on developing a projectile that meets the needs of long-range shooters. This means the slug is not just heavy but also designed with precision and aerodynamic efficiency in mind, providing stable flight and better energy retention over distance. Shooters can expect consistent groupings beyond 50 meters.
5. Compatibility with Rifles: These slugs are longer than standard pellets, which can pose challenges with some magazine-fed rifles. H&N suggests using third-party magazines, as many factory FX magazines may struggle to fit these longer slugs. Additionally, barrels with a shorter twist rate (the rate at which the rifling spins the projectile) are recommended for optimal accuracy. Barrels specifically designed for slugs, rather than pellets, will produce significantly better results.
6. Lubrication and Packaging: Each slug is coated with a special lubricant, reducing barrel friction and improving performance by preventing fouling during shooting. While these slugs are carefully hand-packed and visually inspected before shipping, they are sold loose in tins, meaning minor transport marks and scuffs can occur. However, this does not affect their performance.

Application and Usage Tips

The H&N Heavy Slug is not for casual plinking or low-power air rifles. Due to their weight, they require high-powered airguns that can push the slug at speeds sufficient to take advantage of its aerodynamic properties. These slugs are ideal for:

• Long-range hunting where hitting power and accuracy are critical.
• Precision target shooting at distances beyond 50 meters.

Users must ensure their rifle is not only capable of handling these slugs in terms of power but also has a barrel suited for slugs, as pellet barrels with a slower twist rate may struggle to stabilize these heavier projectiles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the H&N .22 HP Heavy Slug offers unmatched power and accuracy for high-powered air rifles, especially for long-range applications. With its advanced design and attention to detail in the manufacturing process, this slug is a game-changer for shooters looking to push the limits of their airguns. However, it requires a rifle with sufficient power and barrel characteristics to fully exploit its capabilities. For airgun enthusiasts aiming for extended-range precision, the H&N Heavy Slug is a top contender.