Let’s Talk About **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off**
The Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off is designed to deliver match-grade accuracy and devastating terminal performance for hunting large game at extended ranges. Manufactured by Hornady, this ammunition features the ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding) bullet with a Heat Shield tip, a combination aimed at achieving a high ballistic coefficient (BC) and consistent expansion across a wide range of velocities. The promise of flat trajectories, minimal wind drift, and reliable expansion piqued my interest, as I’ve always strived for ethical and effective hunting practices.
My quest for the ideal long-range hunting round led me to this offering from Hornady. I needed ammunition capable of maintaining accuracy and energy at distances beyond 400 yards for potential elk and moose hunts in the Rockies.
Upon unboxing, the rounds were pristine, exhibiting a clean, consistent appearance. The brass cases gleamed, and the ELD-X bullets looked aggressively aerodynamic, the Heat Shield tip a subtle promise of performance.
Compared to other .338 Win Mag options like Federal Premium Trophy Bonded Tip or Nosler AccuBond, the Hornady ELD-X stood out due to its higher BC and the specifically designed Heat Shield tip. These design elements suggested a more consistent trajectory and more reliable expansion at longer ranges than the others, which ultimately swayed my decision. I was definitely excited to finally put this ammunition to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Precision Hunter ammunition at my local shooting range, which offers distances out to 600 yards. The weather was typical for early fall in Montana – cool and clear, with a slight crosswind of about 5-8 mph.
The ammunition cycled flawlessly through my customized Remington 700 rifle chambered in .338 Win Mag, with a 26-inch barrel. I was immediately impressed by the consistent recoil and the lack of any noticeable muzzle flash, suggesting a clean and efficient burn. I didn’t experience any issues during my first outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a successful elk hunt, the Hornady Precision Hunter ammunition has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve fired over 100 rounds, and I haven’t experienced a single misfire or feeding issue.
The brass cases remain in excellent condition, and I’ve reloaded a few of them without any problems. The ammunition has consistently delivered sub-MOA accuracy from my rifle, outperforming several other brands I’ve used in the past. This ammunition clearly outperforms standard hunting ammunition, proving its value for longer-range ethical shots.
Breaking Down the Features of **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off**
Specifications
The Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain ELD-X ammunition features a 230-grain ELD-X bullet, designed for optimal ballistic performance and terminal expansion. The bullet boasts a Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) design, which helps to reduce drag and improve flight stability.
The ammunition uses high-quality brass cases and centerfire primers for consistent ignition. According to Hornady, the ammunition has a muzzle velocity of 2810 ft/s and a muzzle energy of 4032 ft-lbs.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the ammunition’s accuracy, range, and terminal performance on game. The high BC of the ELD-X bullet ensures a flatter trajectory and reduced wind drift, while the controlled expansion design allows for deep penetration and effective energy transfer. The G1 Ballistic Coefficient is 0.616, while the G7 Ballistic Coefficient is 0.31.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Precision Hunter ammunition excels in both accuracy and terminal performance. It delivers consistent sub-MOA groups at 100 yards from my rifle.
The ELD-X bullet’s design provides consistent expansion, even at lower velocities encountered at longer ranges, vital for ethical harvests. One minor weakness is the premium price point, which may be a deterrent for high-volume practice shooting. This ammunition consistently met my expectations, providing both accuracy and knockdown power in hunting scenarios.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition itself doesn’t offer much in terms of ergonomics, but the design of the ELD-X bullet is clearly focused on aerodynamic efficiency and controlled expansion. The Heat Shield tip is a key component, designed to resist deformation during flight and initiate expansion upon impact.
The build quality is excellent, with consistent bullet seating depth and case dimensions. The attention to detail is evident, reflecting Hornady’s commitment to quality and precision. There is no learning curve associated with using this ammunition; it performs as expected straight out of the box.
Durability & Maintenance
As centerfire ammunition, Hornady Precision Hunter rounds are designed for single use, although the brass cases can be reloaded. Properly stored, the ammunition should last for many years without degradation.
The brass cases are easy to clean and resize, making reloading a viable option for those who wish to extend the life of their components. Regular inspection of the ammunition is recommended to ensure there are no signs of corrosion or damage.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Precision Hunter ammunition is primarily designed to be used as-is, but there are a few accessories and customization options to consider. The most common customization involves reloading the brass cases with different powders and primers to fine-tune the ammunition’s performance to a specific rifle.
While Hornady doesn’t offer specific accessories for this ammunition, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket reloading components and tools.
Pros and Cons of **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off**
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups, enhancing confidence in shot placement.
- High Ballistic Coefficient: The ELD-X bullet’s high BC ensures a flat trajectory and reduced wind drift, crucial for long-range shooting.
- Reliable Expansion: The Heat Shield tip initiates controlled expansion at a wide range of velocities, ensuring effective terminal performance.
- Consistent Performance: Ammunition is manufactured to high standards, resulting in consistent velocities and reliable ignition.
- Effective Terminal Performance: Proven performance on large game, providing deep penetration and significant energy transfer.
Cons
- High Price: A premium ammunition with a price point that can be prohibitive for high-volume shooting or practice.
- Limited Availability: The popularity of the Precision Hunter line can sometimes make it difficult to find in stock at local retailers.
Who Should Buy **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off**?
The Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Win Mag ammunition is perfect for serious hunters who prioritize accuracy and terminal performance at extended ranges. It’s also an excellent choice for competitive shooters who participate in long-range shooting events.
This ammunition may not be ideal for casual shooters or those who primarily hunt at shorter ranges, as the premium price may not be justified for their needs. If you’re primarily hunting whitetail deer at distances under 200 yards, other cheaper ammunitions would likely be sufficient.
A high-quality scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments is a must-have accessory to fully realize the potential of this ammunition. A laser rangefinder and ballistic calculator are also highly recommended for precise long-range shot placement.
Conclusion on **Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
82222 22% Off**
The Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Winchester Magnum 230 Grain ELD-X ammunition is a top-tier choice for serious hunters and long-range shooters who demand the best possible performance. While the price is higher than standard hunting ammunition, the exceptional accuracy, high BC, and reliable expansion justify the cost for those who prioritize ethical and effective shot placement.
I wholeheartedly recommend this ammunition to anyone who hunts large game at extended ranges or participates in long-range shooting competitions. The performance speaks for itself, and the peace of mind knowing you’re using some of the best ammunition available is invaluable. If you value precision and terminal effectiveness, then the Hornady Precision Hunter is an investment worth making.