First Impressions of **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
65PRC-3-N $2.91 Off**
The 6.5mm PRC has quickly become a darling in the long-range shooting and hunting communities, offering a flatter trajectory and higher energy retention than many other popular calibers. With that in mind, I was eager to get my hands on the HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition, hoping to experience the lauded accuracy and terminal performance firsthand. HSM Ammunition has a reputation for quality control and precise loading, and the combination of their expertise with the proven Hornady SST bullet seemed like a recipe for success.
My need for this ammunition stemmed from a developing interest in longer-range ethical hunting. I had previously relied on my trusty .308 for deer and elk, but the 6.5 PRC promised flatter shooting and less wind drift, potentially extending my effective range in challenging conditions. The appeal was simple: greater precision, more humane harvests.
Upon receiving the ammunition, I was immediately impressed by the clean, uniform appearance of each round. The brass casings were polished, and the Hornady SST bullets were seated consistently, reflecting HSM Ammunition’s attention to detail. Compared to some bulk ammunition I’ve used in the past, this looked and felt like a premium product.
I also considered Hornady’s ELD-X Precision Hunter line and Federal’s Terminal Ascent rounds. However, I opted for the HSM Ammunition Tripping Point because of the SST bullet’s reputation for rapid expansion and reliable terminal performance at a slightly more accessible price point. I was also intrigued by HSM Ammunition’s claims of match-grade accuracy, which I planned to verify at the range.
My initial impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point promised a combination of accuracy, terminal ballistics, and affordability, and I was eager to see if it would live up to the hype. This wasn’t just ammo; it was an investment in confident, ethical hunting.
Real-World Testing: Putting **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
65PRC-3-N $2.91 Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the HSM Ammunition Tripping Point was at my local shooting range, under relatively ideal conditions: clear skies, minimal wind, and a comfortable 65 degrees Fahrenheit. I was shooting from a bench rest with a bipod, using my Savage 110 Precision rifle chambered in 6.5 PRC. The rifle is equipped with a quality scope, ensuring I could accurately assess the ammunition’s performance.
The first few shots were immediately impressive. Recoil was manageable, and the rounds consistently cycled smoothly through my rifle. More importantly, my initial groupings at 100 yards were tighter than I had ever achieved with factory .308 ammunition in another rifle; I was consistently getting sub-MOA results.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use and roughly 200 rounds fired, the HSM Ammunition Tripping Point has proven to be remarkably consistent and reliable. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from 30 degrees to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, and in both dry and slightly humid conditions, with no noticeable changes in performance. The ammunition has also held up well during transport, with no signs of bullet setback or damaged primers.
I have not experienced any malfunctions, misfires, or failures to extract with this ammunition. Furthermore, after cleaning my rifle, I’ve noticed minimal copper fouling, suggesting a clean-burning powder formulation. Compared to some of the cheaper surplus ammunition I’ve used in the past, the difference in cleanliness and consistency is night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
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Specifications
- Caliber: 6.5mm PRC, a modern short-action magnum cartridge known for its flat trajectory and high ballistic coefficient. The 6.5 PRC’s efficiency means less recoil than larger magnums while delivering exceptional long-range performance.
- Bullet Weight: 140 grain, offering a balance of velocity, energy, and trajectory for hunting medium-to-large game. This weight is a sweet spot for the 6.5 PRC, maximizing its capabilities across a range of distances.
- Bullet Type: Hornady SST (Super Shock Tip), designed for rapid expansion and deep penetration. The SST features a secant ogive design, polymer tip, and InterLock ring to ensure controlled expansion and weight retention.
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass, allowing for reliable feeding, extraction, and potential for reloading. Brass is a standard for high-quality ammunition due to its consistent dimensions and resilience.
- Primer Style: Centerfire, ensuring consistent ignition and reliability in various conditions. Centerfire primers are the industry standard for rifle ammunition.
- Package Type: Box, with 20 rounds per box. The box provides adequate protection for the ammunition during storage and transport.
Performance & Functionality
The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point performs exceptionally well, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable terminal ballistics. At the range, I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 100 yards, and excellent groupings out to 600 yards. This level of accuracy instills confidence when taking ethical shots at longer ranges.
The ammunition’s primary strength is its combination of accuracy and terminal performance. The SST bullet expands rapidly upon impact, creating a large wound cavity, while still penetrating deeply enough to reach vital organs. The bullet is consistent shot after shot.
Design & Ergonomics
HSM Ammunition’s design is functional and straightforward, focusing on quality components and precise loading. The ammunition is well-made, with consistent bullet seating depth and clean, polished brass. There’s no unnecessary flash or gimmicks; it’s designed to perform reliably.
The ammunition is easy to load and cycles smoothly through my rifle’s action. The consistent dimensions and quality brass contribute to the overall positive user experience. The brass cases are reloadable if you have that capacity.
Durability & Maintenance
The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point is designed for single use, but the high-quality brass casings are reloadable, extending their value. The clean-burning powder also reduces the amount of fouling in the rifle barrel, making cleaning easier. Reloading can save money on ammunition over time.
With proper storage in a cool, dry place, the ammunition should maintain its performance for many years. Regular cleaning of the rifle is essential to maintain accuracy and reliability. This is standard practice for all firearms use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point is compatible with any rifle chambered in 6.5mm PRC. The ammunition’s performance can be further enhanced by using a high-quality scope, bipod, and rangefinder. The combination of quality components and precise loading makes it a versatile choice for various shooting applications.
The 6.5 PRC cartridge is known for its long-range capabilities and compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. This includes everything from custom barrels and triggers to advanced optics and ballistic calculators. Consider improving your optic to take advantage of the flat trajectory.
Pros and Cons of **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
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Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups at 100 yards, enhancing confidence in long-range shooting. This helps with ethical hunting.
- Reliable Terminal Performance: The Hornady SST bullet provides rapid expansion and deep penetration, ensuring humane kills. This bullet has a good reputation.
- Clean-Burning Powder: Reduces fouling in the rifle barrel, making cleaning easier and extending barrel life. Spend less time cleaning.
- High-Quality Components: Features premium brass casings and consistent bullet seating, contributing to overall reliability. Quality components result in better performance.
- Reloadable Brass: The brass casings can be reloaded, providing cost savings and customization options for experienced shooters. Reloading can be a fun and useful hobby.
Cons
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other factory-loaded ammunition, but the performance justifies the cost for serious shooters. You get what you pay for.
- SST Bullet Not Ideal for All Game: While effective on deer-sized game, some may prefer a bullet with even greater weight retention for larger, tougher game. Consider your game and its size.
Who Should Buy **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
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The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point is perfect for hunters seeking a flat-shooting, accurate, and reliable cartridge for medium-to-large game. It’s also well-suited for long-range target shooters who demand consistent performance and tight groupings. Anyone who values accuracy will benefit.
This ammunition might not be the best choice for high-volume shooters on a tight budget or those primarily focused on close-range hunting with larger calibers. Consider other options if budget is your primary concern.
A must-have accessory for this ammunition is a high-quality ballistic calculator to take full advantage of the 6.5 PRC’s long-range capabilities. Additionally, a quality scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments is essential for precise shooting at extended distances. This combination will improve your shot accuracy.
Conclusion on **HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition
65PRC-3-N $2.91 Off**
The HSM Ammunition Tripping Point 6.5mm PRC 140 Grain Hornady SST Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is a high-quality, consistent, and accurate cartridge that delivers exceptional performance in the field and on the range. While it may be slightly more expensive than some alternatives, the investment is well worth it for serious shooters who demand reliability and precision. It’s a great option for ethical hunting.
The price is justified by the superior components, consistent loading, and excellent terminal ballistics. I would highly recommend this ammunition to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their 6.5 PRC rifle. Experience the difference and take your shooting to the next level!