First Impressions of Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off is not just another cartridge; it’s a promise of precision and terminal performance. Offered by Federal, this ammunition combines the proven 7mm Rem Mag caliber with the advanced ELD-X bullet technology from Hornady, promising long-range accuracy and devastating on-game performance. I was excited to see if this ammunition could live up to its claims, considering my past experiences with various 7mm Rem Mag loads.
As a dedicated elk hunter in the rugged mountains of Montana, I was seeking a round that could deliver consistent accuracy and reliable expansion at extended ranges. The challenge was finding a bullet that could withstand the impact velocities at closer ranges without fragmenting while still offering sufficient expansion for clean kills at longer distances. I had previously used other premium brands with mixed results, always searching for that “perfect” load.
Upon receiving the Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X, the first thing I noticed was the pristine, bright brass casing – a hallmark of Federal’s commitment to quality. The bullet itself, with its polymer tip, looked sleek and aerodynamic, hinting at its long-range capabilities. Compared to some of the bulk hunting ammo I’ve used, this looked and felt like a precision instrument.
I considered other options, including Nosler AccuBond and Barnes TTSX, but the ELD-X’s reputation for consistent expansion across a wide velocity range intrigued me. I’ve heard stories of the Nosler Accubond not expanding at longer ranges, and the Barnes TTSX passing through without causing enough damage. The Federal offering seemed to strike a balance between controlled expansion and deep penetration. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X came at my local shooting range, nestled in a valley known for its unpredictable wind conditions. I set up my trusty Remington 700, chambered in 7mm Rem Mag, and prepared to zero the scope at 100 yards. The weather was fairly mild, with a slight crosswind that would test the ammunition’s wind resistance.
The first few shots grouped tightly within an inch, a promising start, especially considering the swirling winds. I continued to fire groups of three, adjusting the scope until I achieved a consistent sub-MOA grouping. The recoil was manageable, typical of the 7mm Rem Mag, but the consistency of the shots was what impressed me most. There were no misfires, no hangfires, just a smooth, consistent report with each pull of the trigger.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the next several months, I continued to practice with the Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X, logging over 100 rounds at varying distances, from 100 to 500 yards. The ammunition consistently delivered excellent accuracy, holding sub-MOA groups out to 300 yards. Beyond that, the groups opened slightly, but still remained well within acceptable hunting standards. I experienced no malfunctions whatsoever, a testament to the quality of the Federal ammunition.
The ammunition proved exceptionally durable, showing no signs of degradation even after being stored in my pack during several backcountry trips. Cleaning my rifle after using the Federal rounds was a breeze, with minimal copper fouling in the barrel. Compared to some of the cheaper ammo I’ve used, which left a noticeable residue, the Federal rounds burned cleanly. The performance exceeded my expectations, particularly in terms of consistency and accuracy at longer ranges.
Breaking Down the Features of Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off
Specifications
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X boasts several impressive specifications. The 162-grain ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag – eXpanding) bullet is designed for optimal ballistic performance and terminal expansion. The 7mm Remington Magnum caliber delivers significant energy and range.
Each round features a centerfire primer, ensuring reliable ignition in various conditions. The ammunition is loaded into high-quality brass casings, known for their reloadability and consistent dimensions. The muzzle velocity is rated at 2940 feet per second, translating to a flat trajectory and ample energy downrange. The muzzle energy is 3109 ft-lbs, providing significant knock-down power for ethical harvests. The G1 Ballistic Coefficient is 0.318, a good value for maintaining velocity and resisting wind drift at long ranges. The bullet tip material is polymer, enhancing the bullet’s aerodynamic profile and initiating expansion upon impact.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the ammunition’s accuracy, range, and terminal performance. The high ballistic coefficient helps to minimize bullet drop and wind drift, making it easier to place accurate shots at longer distances. The controlled expansion of the ELD-X bullet ensures that it delivers significant energy to the target, resulting in quick, humane kills.
Performance & Functionality
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X performed exceptionally well in my testing. Its accuracy was outstanding, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups with my rifle. The reliable ignition and smooth feeding contributed to a seamless shooting experience.
The ELD-X bullet offered a consistent and predictable expansion on ballistic gel targets, demonstrating its ability to perform at various impact velocities. One minor area for improvement might be to increase the ballistic coefficient slightly for even better long-range performance in extreme conditions. Overall, the ammunition exceeded my expectations, offering a lethal combination of accuracy and terminal performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X is designed with quality and precision in mind. The high-quality brass casing ensures smooth feeding and extraction. The sleek ELD-X bullet profile contributes to its excellent ballistic performance.
The ammunition is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or adjustments to use effectively. The weight of the round is typical for the 7mm Rem Mag caliber, making it comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Durability & Maintenance
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X is built to last. The high-quality brass casings are durable and can be reloaded multiple times, extending their useful life. The ELD-X bullet is designed to withstand the stresses of high-velocity flight, ensuring consistent performance upon impact.
The ammunition requires minimal maintenance, simply store it in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion. Cleaning your rifle after use is straightforward, as the ammunition burns cleanly, leaving minimal residue in the barrel.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X does not require any specific accessories for use, but pairing it with a high-quality rifle and scope is essential to maximize its potential. Many hunters and shooters choose to reload the brass casings with their preferred powders and bullets, allowing for further customization.
The ammunition is compatible with a wide range of 7mm Rem Mag rifles and aftermarket accessories, such as muzzle brakes and improved triggers, allowing users to tailor their setup to their specific needs. Be sure to use bold and italic text where necessary to emphasize important points.
Pros and Cons of Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups, enhancing long-range precision.
- Reliable Expansion: The ELD-X bullet offers consistent and predictable expansion across a wide velocity range, ensuring ethical harvests.
- Clean Burning: Minimal residue in the barrel, making cleaning easier and prolonging barrel life.
- High-Quality Components: Uses premium brass casings and primers for consistent performance and reloadability.
- Consistent Performance: Provides consistent accuracy and reliable ignition in various conditions, reducing the chance of misfires.
Cons
- Price: The Federal Premium line is generally more expensive than standard hunting ammunition.
- Availability: Can sometimes be difficult to find in stock, especially during peak hunting seasons.
Who Should Buy Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off?
This ammunition is perfect for hunters seeking a high-performance round for medium to large game, such as deer, elk, and antelope. Long-range shooters who demand exceptional accuracy and consistent performance will also appreciate the Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X. It is also well-suited for competitive shooters looking for a reliable and accurate cartridge for long-range events.
This product may not be the best choice for budget-conscious shooters or those primarily shooting at short ranges, where the benefits of the ELD-X bullet may not be fully realized. Those who prefer lighter bullets for varmint hunting should also consider other options. A must-have accessory is a high-quality scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments to take full advantage of the ammunition’s long-range capabilities.
Conclusion on Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off
The Federal Premium 7mm Rem Mag 162 Grain ELD-X CenterfireBrass Rifle Ammunition P7RELDX1 $3.10 Off is a top-tier cartridge that delivers on its promise of accuracy and terminal performance. While it may come at a premium price, the consistent results and reliable expansion make it a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and shooters.
The price is justified by the superior quality of the components and the proven performance of the ELD-X bullet. I would highly recommend this ammunition to anyone seeking a reliable and accurate round for long-range hunting or shooting. Upgrade your hunting experience today and experience the Federal Premium difference.