First Impressions of Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip
As an experienced outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent countless hours reloading and testing various bullet types. The 6.8 Special cartridge has always intrigued me due to its potential for delivering a flatter trajectory and increased energy on target compared to the more common 5.56 NATO. When I saw the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip, I was eager to see how they performed, especially considering Winchester’s reputation for quality components.
I was searching for a reliable and accurate projectile for my 6.8 SPC AR-15 build that I could use for both target shooting and potential hog hunting. Many bullets either lacked the accuracy I desired, or the terminal performance I needed for hunting.
Upon receiving the package, the bullets were neatly organized in a sturdy box containing 100 projectiles. The Winchester bullets appeared well-formed, with consistent dimensions and clean open tips. Compared to some bulk bullets I’ve used in the past, the Winchester offerings looked noticeably more refined. I considered Nosler AccuBonds and Sierra MatchKings, but the Winchester bullets offered a potentially good balance of accuracy and price point.
My initial impression was positive. The bullets exuded quality, and I was optimistic about their potential accuracy and terminal performance. They seemed purpose-built, and I couldn’t wait to load them up and hit the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip was at my local outdoor range on a relatively calm day. I loaded them with a moderate charge of Hodgdon Benchmark powder, a combination I found to produce consistent velocities in my 16-inch AR-15. The initial results were encouraging; the bullets fed smoothly and consistently, and the recoil was manageable.
The temperature was around 65 degrees Fahrenheit with minimal wind, providing ideal conditions for testing. I immediately noticed better grouping at 100 yards compared to some of the FMJ rounds I had previously used. There were no immediate issues, such as bullet instability or feeding problems.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip, I’ve been consistently impressed with their performance. I’ve used them in several different rifles chambered in 6.8 SPC, with varying barrel lengths, and they have proven reliable across the board. So far, I have put approximately 500 rounds downrange with no issues.
There’s been no noticeable degradation in accuracy or performance over time, even after being stored in various conditions. They seem to hold up well to the rigors of repeated loading and firing. Regular cleaning of my rifles has been sufficient to maintain optimal performance. Compared to some other bullets that I have tested, these Winchester projectiles have offered greater consistency and accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip
Specifications
The Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip are designed and manufactured by Winchester, a name synonymous with quality ammunition components. These bullets are specifically chambered for the 6.8mm Remington SPC cartridge, a round known for its improved ballistics and terminal performance compared to the 5.56 NATO. The Open Tip Match (OTM) design is intended to enhance accuracy and promote expansion upon impact.
The 115-grain weight offers a good balance between velocity and ballistic coefficient, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including target shooting, hunting, and tactical scenarios. The bullets are .277 caliber, reflecting the 6.8 SPC’s unique bullet diameter. The core material is lead, which is standard for most rifle bullets, providing the necessary weight and density for stability and energy transfer. They are sold in quantities of 100 bullets per box, which is a convenient amount for reloading purposes. The choice of materials and design are critical for optimizing accuracy and terminal performance, especially when hunting.
Performance & Functionality
The Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip perform exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and reliability. In my experience, they are capable of producing sub-MOA groups in a properly tuned rifle. These bullets have consistently delivered tight groupings and reliable expansion.
The OTM design contributes to enhanced accuracy, while the 115-grain weight provides sufficient energy for effective terminal performance on medium-sized game. The only potential downside is that the OTM design might not offer the same level of controlled expansion as some dedicated hunting bullets. They definitely meet my expectations and provide consistent performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip is excellent. The bullets are consistently sized and shaped, with clean and well-formed open tips. The weight consistency is also commendable, which contributes to more uniform velocities and improved accuracy.
The bullets are easy to handle and load, with no sharp edges or imperfections that might interfere with the reloading process. There isn’t really a learning curve when reloading these bullets; the process is straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
The Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip are inherently durable due to their lead core and robust construction. They should last for a long time, provided they are stored properly in a cool, dry environment. Regular cleaning of the bore is still necessary to remove any lead fouling, but it’s no different from any other lead-core bullet.
Maintenance is minimal; just ensure they are stored in a controlled environment. They are no more difficult to maintain than other lead-core projectiles.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip, being components, don’t come with accessories in the traditional sense. However, they are designed to be used with standard reloading equipment, such as dies, presses, and powder measures. They are also compatible with a wide range of 6.8 SPC rifles and magazines.
The main customization option is to experiment with different powder types and charges to optimize accuracy and velocity for a specific rifle. Additionally, these bullets can be used with various crimping methods to achieve optimal neck tension. These Winchester bullets are readily compatible with standard 6.8 SPC reloading components.
Pros and Cons of Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip
Pros
- Excellent Accuracy: These bullets are capable of producing sub-MOA groups when properly loaded, making them ideal for target shooting and hunting.
- Consistent Performance: The quality control is excellent, ensuring consistent weights and dimensions, leading to uniform velocities and reliable terminal performance.
- Suitable for Hunting: The 115-grain weight and open tip design provide sufficient energy transfer and expansion for ethical harvests on medium-sized game like hogs and deer.
- Easy to Load: The bullets are well-formed and easy to handle, making the reloading process straightforward and efficient.
- Reputable Brand: Winchester has a long-standing reputation for quality ammunition components, ensuring peace of mind and reliable performance.
Cons
- Potential for Over-Penetration: The OTM design is optimized for accuracy, and the expansion may not be as controlled as dedicated hunting bullets, potentially leading to over-penetration in some scenarios.
- Not Ideal for Heavy Game: While suitable for medium-sized game, the 115-grain weight may not be sufficient for larger or tougher animals.
Who Should Buy Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip?
The Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip are perfect for reloaders who are looking for accurate and reliable projectiles for their 6.8 SPC rifles. They are well-suited for target shooters, varmint hunters, and hog hunters who value consistent performance and tight groupings.
Those who should skip this product are hunters who primarily target large or dangerous game. They might need to consider heavier or more specialized bullets designed for maximum penetration and controlled expansion. You will need standard 6.8 SPC reloading dies, powder, primers, and a reloading press.
Conclusion on Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip
In summary, the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip are high-quality components that offer excellent accuracy, consistent performance, and reliable terminal effects on medium-sized game. The price is justified considering the quality and performance that these bullets deliver.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone who is reloading for the 6.8 SPC cartridge and looking for a versatile projectile that can be used for both target shooting and hunting. Invest in the Winchester Rifle Bullets, 6.8 Special, 115 Grain, Open Tip today and experience the difference that quality components can make in your shooting experience.