.20 VarTag Load Data

The .20 VarTag is a specialized wildcat caliber that emerged in the late 1990s, catering to a growing demand amongst varmint hunters and precision shooters for an ultra-flat shooting, low-recoil round. Its origin lies with the legendary varmint cartridge developer Todd Kindler, who envisioned a high-velocity .20 caliber cartridge based on the .221 Fireball case. The .20 VarTag is essentially a necked-down, blown-out version of the .221 Remington Fireball, optimized to accept .204-inch projectiles. By combining the Fireball’s efficient powder capacity and the high ballistic coefficient of .20 caliber bullets, the .20 VarTag quickly carved out an enthusiastic following in the custom and reloader communities.

In practical applications, the .20 VarTag excels in varmint and small predator hunting. Its high velocity and flat trajectory make it ideally suited for ground squirrel, prairie dog, coyote, and fox shooting, especially in open country where quick shots at varying distances are common. Handloaders are particularly attracted to the .20 VarTag for its impressive performance with minimal powder charge, resulting in reduced barrel heat and extended barrel life, compared to larger and hotter .20 caliber or .22 centerfire cartridges. Moreover, its modest recoil makes this cartridge comfortable for extended shooting sessions, further endearing it to target shooters who appreciate spotting their own impacts without losing the sight picture.

Among target species, the .20 VarTag’s most popular application is in controlling pest animals such as prairie dogs and ground squirrels, where shot distances can range from 100 to over 400 yards. The round’s velocity and frangible bullet options ensure rapid expansion and ethical kills, reducing both ricochets and concerns about over-penetration. For predator calling, the .20 VarTag packs enough punch for foxes and coyotes at moderate distances, striking a balance between effective terminal performance and pelt preservation, a factor important for fur harvesters and wildlife managers alike.

Typical bullet weights for the .20 VarTag range between 32 and 40 grains, with the 32-grain V-Max and 39–40 grain ballistic tip bullets being extremely popular due to their high velocity potential—often exceeding 3,900 feet per second with the lighter projectiles, depending on bullet and barrel length. This cartridge stands out for its remarkable efficiency: shooters achieve near-.204 Ruger velocities with as little as 20 grains of powder, reducing heat and fouling. Due to its small case and neck diameter, case prep and consistency are important for accuracy-minded reloaders. Overall, the .20 VarTag combines efficiency, accuracy, and terminal performance, making it a favorite among dedicated reloaders and custom rifle enthusiasts seeking a precise and highly effective varmint cartridge.