Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs Review

The Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs Made a Bold First Impression

The Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs ammunition promises a blend of affordability and reliable performance. This offering from Armscor aims to deliver consistent accuracy and terminal ballistics suitable for both hunting and target shooting. The use of the Nosler AccuBond bullet is particularly intriguing, suggesting a focus on controlled expansion and deep penetration.

I needed ammunition for my vintage Springfield rifle, primarily for deer hunting this coming season. I’ve been searching for a round that offers a good balance of accuracy, knockdown power, and reasonable cost, as I plan to do a fair amount of practice before the hunt. I wanted something better than basic FMJ range ammo.

The package arrived neatly packed, showcasing the Armscor branding. The cartridges themselves looked clean and well-seated, indicating good quality control during manufacturing. Visually, the AccuBond bullet presents a sleek profile with a polymer tip designed to enhance ballistic coefficient and initiate expansion.

I had considered other brands like Federal Premium and Hornady Precision Hunter, both known for their excellent .30-06 offerings. However, the Armscor ammunition, specifically with the AccuBond bullet, presented a more economical option, without completely sacrificing potential performance. The price point was certainly a major factor.

My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The reputation of the AccuBond bullet combined with Armscor’s commitment to value suggested a potentially winning combination. I was eager to see how it would perform in my rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs to the Test

First Use Experience

I took the Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond to my local shooting range, known for its 100-yard and 200-yard lanes. The weather was mild, with a slight crosswind, ideal for testing ammunition consistency. I was shooting from a bench rest to minimize shooter error and focus on the ammunition’s performance.

The rounds chambered smoothly in my Springfield, and the recoil felt manageable, as expected for a .30-06. The initial groupings at 100 yards were promising, averaging around 1.5 inches, with a few tighter groups pushing just under an inch. There were no immediate malfunctions or failures to feed.

After about 20 rounds, I did notice some slight carbon buildup, but nothing excessive. The brass ejected cleanly without any signs of overpressure. The consistency in the sound and feel of each shot was also reassuring.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next few months, I put approximately 160 rounds of the Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond through my rifle. The accuracy remained consistent, with minimal degradation in performance over time. The rounds continued to chamber and eject flawlessly.

I didn’t notice any significant wear and tear on the brass casings, even after repeated firings for reloading purposes. Cleaning the rifle after each range session was straightforward, with no unusual residue or fouling. The ammunition seemed to burn relatively cleanly.

Compared to some match-grade ammunition I’ve used in the past, the Armscor offering might not deliver quite the same level of pinpoint precision. However, for hunting purposes and general range practice, it consistently outperformed my expectations, especially considering the price. This is a very reliable round.

Breaking Down the Features of Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs

Specifications

• Caliber: .30-06 Springfield. This is a classic and versatile cartridge suitable for a wide range of game and target shooting.

• Bullet Weight: 165 Grain. A good compromise between flat trajectory and sufficient energy transfer on larger game.

• Bullet Type: Nosler AccuBond. The bonded core and polymer tip ensure controlled expansion and deep penetration.

• Muzzle Velocity: 2608 fps. A respectable velocity for a 165-grain bullet, providing a good balance of speed and manageable recoil.

• Muzzle Energy: 2492 ft-lbs. Provides sufficient energy for ethical hunting of deer, antelope, and similar-sized game.

• Packaging: 20 rounds per box, 8 boxes per case (160 rounds total). This packaging is convenient for both storage and transportation.

These specifications translate to a round that is capable of delivering consistent accuracy, reliable expansion, and sufficient energy for ethical hunting at reasonable distances. The AccuBond bullet is known for its ability to hold together upon impact, ensuring deep penetration, even through bone. This is a significant advantage for hunters.

Performance & Functionality

The Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond performs admirably in terms of accuracy and reliability. The consistent muzzle velocity contributes to predictable trajectory and repeatable point of impact. I experienced no misfires or failures to extract, indicating high-quality manufacturing.

The ammunition’s strength lies in its consistent performance and affordability. The slight weakness might be that for extremely long-range precision shooting, there might be better, but more expensive, options. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds expectations, offering a great value proposition.

Design & Ergonomics

The ammunition design is straightforward and functional. The brass casings are well-formed and the bullets are consistently seated. The weight of each cartridge feels balanced, contributing to smooth chambering and consistent recoil.

There is virtually no learning curve. This ammunition is designed to function reliably in any firearm chambered for .30-06 Springfield.

Durability & Maintenance

The ammunition should last indefinitely if stored properly in a cool, dry place. The brass casings are reloadable, adding to the value proposition for those who enjoy reloading their own ammunition. Minimal maintenance is required, other than proper storage.

Accessories and Customization Options

There are no specific accessories that come with the ammunition itself, but it is compatible with any standard .30-06 Springfield rifle. Shooters can customize their setup with different optics, slings, and other accessories to enhance their overall shooting experience. The reloadable brass also allows for customization in terms of powder charge and bullet seating depth.

Pros and Cons of Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs

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Who Should Buy Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs?

This ammunition is perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and accurate .30-06 load for deer, antelope, and similar-sized game. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters looking for a cost-effective option for range practice. Anyone who is looking for a great .30-06 round at a reasonable price should give this a look.

Someone focused solely on benchrest competitions or extreme long-range shooting might prefer a more specialized (and expensive) load. Also, someone who doesn’t reload will not be able to take advantage of the reloadable brass.

A high-quality scope and a well-maintained rifle are must-have accessories to maximize the performance of this ammunition. A good set of reloading dies would also be beneficial for those who wish to reload the brass.

Conclusion on Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond 20 Bx/ 8 Cs

The Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability. The use of the Nosler AccuBond bullet provides a significant advantage in terms of terminal ballistics, while Armscor’s commitment to value ensures a reasonable price point. The price is definitely justified for hunters and sport shooters who require a reliable and accurate round without breaking the bank.

I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a versatile and cost-effective .30-06 load. Whether you’re preparing for hunting season or simply enjoying a day at the range, the Armscor .30-06 Springfield 165 GR AccuBond is a solid choice. Give it a try and experience the quality and value for yourself!

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