Let’s Talk About Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip are designed for rapid expansion and significant terminal performance. These bullets, manufactured by Hornady, are a popular choice for hunters and target shooters alike, seeking consistent accuracy and devastating impact.
My journey to these bullets began with a frustrating string of unsuccessful deer hunts. I needed a reliable projectile in my SKS that would deliver humane kills at reasonable ranges. The Hornady SST seemed to fit the bill, promising controlled expansion and deep penetration.
Upon unboxing, the bullets impressed me with their sleek design and uniform appearance. They felt well-made, with a clean polymer tip and a noticeable boat tail. Their weight felt consistent, a crucial factor for reloading precision.
I had been considering the Nosler Ballistic Tip and the Sierra GameKing, but ultimately chose the Hornady SST due to its reputation for consistent performance in semi-automatic rifles. The deciding factor was user reports of reliable feeding and expansion at the velocities produced by the 7.62x39mm cartridge. My first impression was excitement tempered with cautious optimism; I was eager to see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hornady SST bullets was at my local shooting range. I was testing handloads in my SKS rifle, dialing in the powder charge for optimal accuracy. The temperature was a mild 65 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze.
The bullets loaded smoothly into my magazines and fed reliably into the chamber. I was able to achieve sub-2 MOA groups at 100 yards, which was a significant improvement over my previous ammunition. I did notice a slightly larger muzzle flash compared to heavier bullets, likely due to the lighter projectile and faster burning powder.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hornady SST bullets have proven to be consistently accurate and reliable. They have held up well in storage, showing no signs of corrosion or degradation. Minimal cleaning has been required beyond standard bore maintenance after each shooting session.
Compared to my previous experiences with surplus ammunition, the Hornady SST bullets offer a night-and-day difference in performance. The accuracy and terminal performance are vastly superior, making them a worthwhile investment for serious shooters. I’ve taken them on multiple hunts in various weather conditions, and they have performed flawlessly.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip
Specifications
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip boast several key specifications. These include a 7.62mm (.310) caliber, a bullet weight of 123 grains, and a Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) design. The sectional density is 0.183, and the bullets are constructed from copper.
These specifications directly contribute to the bullet’s performance. The lighter weight allows for higher velocities, while the boat tail design enhances ballistic coefficient, improving accuracy at longer ranges. The Super Shock Tip ensures rapid expansion upon impact, maximizing terminal effect.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip excel in accuracy and terminal performance. They consistently deliver tight groupings at various ranges, making them suitable for both target shooting and hunting. The expansion is reliable and devastating on game animals.
The primary strength of these bullets is their consistent performance across different rifles and load configurations. A minor weakness might be their lighter weight, which could be more susceptible to wind drift at extreme ranges. They significantly exceed my expectations for a bullet in this caliber and weight class.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hornady SST bullets are designed with a sleek, aerodynamic profile. The build quality is exceptional, with consistent dimensions and a smooth finish. They are easy to handle during reloading, and the boat tail design simplifies seating in the case.
The user-friendly design ensures consistent performance. There is virtually no learning curve associated with reloading or using these bullets.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip are constructed from high-quality materials, ensuring long-term durability. With proper storage, they will remain stable and reliable for years. Minimal maintenance is required, beyond standard cleaning of reloading equipment.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady SST bullets themselves do not come with accessories, but their reloading components allow for extensive customization. Reloaders can experiment with different powder charges, primers, and case types to optimize performance for their specific rifle. The bullets are compatible with a wide range of reloading dies and equipment from various manufacturers. This bullet is a popular choice for those who seek a highly customizable reloading experience.
Pros and Cons of Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip
Pros
- Consistent Accuracy: Delivers sub-MOA groups in properly tuned rifles.
- Reliable Expansion: Super Shock Tip ensures rapid and devastating terminal performance.
- Excellent Ballistic Coefficient: Boat tail design enhances long-range accuracy.
- High Velocity: Lighter weight allows for flatter trajectories and increased energy on target.
- Easy to Reload: Consistent dimensions and smooth finish simplify the reloading process.
Cons
- Lighter Weight: Could be more susceptible to wind drift at extreme ranges.
- May Require Tuning: Optimal accuracy may require experimentation with different load configurations.
Who Should Buy Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip?
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip are perfect for hunters seeking reliable and humane kills on medium-sized game. They are also ideal for target shooters who demand consistent accuracy and predictable performance. Reloaders who enjoy experimenting with different load configurations will appreciate the flexibility of these bullets.
This product might not be the best choice for those primarily focused on long-range target shooting in windy conditions. Heavier bullets with higher ballistic coefficients might be more suitable in those scenarios. A must-have accessory for these bullets is a high-quality reloading die set, allowing for precise and consistent cartridge assembly.
Conclusion on Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip
The Hornady SST Rifle Bullets, 7.62mm, .310, 123 Grain, Super Shock Tip are a top-tier choice for shooters seeking a balance of accuracy, terminal performance, and reliability. At $53.89 per 100, the price is justified by the consistent quality and effectiveness of these bullets.
I wholeheartedly recommend these bullets to anyone looking to improve their shooting performance in the 7.62x39mm caliber. If you value accuracy, reliability, and devastating terminal effect, the Hornady SST bullets are an excellent investment. Upgrade your shooting experience today and see the difference Hornady quality makes!