HSM markets its Varmint 55-grain V-Max for varmint hunting and small game. The V-Max is a polymer-tipped varmint bullet, and HSM loads this one to 3,610 fps at the muzzle with 1,592 ft-lbs of energy. That puts it among the 55-grain polymer-tipped loads rather than the faster 50-grain ones.

Compared with Federal's Varmint & Predator 55-grain V-Max, the HSM has the same bullet weight and type but starts 60 fps slower, with 53 fewer ft-lbs at the muzzle. The Federal kicks only about 2 percent harder in the same rifle, so the two feel the same on the shoulder. Compared with Hornady's Superformance Varmint 50-grain V-Max, the HSM carries a heavier bullet but gives up 390 fps at the muzzle. The lighter Hornady also kicks about 6 percent less in the same rifle.

Buy the HSM if you want a 55-grain V-Max for varmints and small game. It sits within 70 fps of Federal's Varmint & Predator V-Max and Winchester's Varmint-X 55-grain at the muzzle, so the three are close choices. Pick the Federal if you want the same bullet a little faster. Pick the Hornady 50-grain V-Max if you want much more speed and a little less recoil. For a soft point at the same weight, Remington's High Performance Rifle 55-grain PSP starts 70 fps faster, and Remington lists small game as its use.