First Impressions of Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off
The Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off promises long-range precision and devastating terminal performance, a combination that immediately piqued my interest. Gunwerks, known for their integrated rifle systems and high-end ammunition, aims to deliver consistent results for serious hunters and competitive shooters alike.
I was looking for ammunition that could reliably deliver flat trajectories and ethical kills at extended ranges. My previous experiences with factory ammo often left me wanting more consistency and terminal effect, particularly beyond 400 yards.
Unboxing the Gunwerks ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the clean, consistent appearance of each cartridge. The brass cases gleamed, and the Berger VLD bullets were seated perfectly, hinting at the meticulous attention to detail Gunwerks claims. The weight felt substantial, promising a consistent powder charge.
Compared to my usual go-to, Federal Premium, and Hornady ELD-X, the Gunwerks ammunition stood out with its advertised emphasis on hand-loaded quality and specifically tailored long-range performance. While Federal and Hornady offer excellent options, Gunwerks seemed to prioritize extreme consistency and terminal ballistics optimized for their rifles, but adaptable to others. Initially, I felt a surge of excitement, hoping this would be the edge I needed for those challenging hunts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag ammunition at my local shooting range, which offers distances out to 800 yards. Conditions were relatively mild, with a slight crosswind of 5-7 mph, giving me a reasonable challenge for long-range accuracy.
The ammunition performed flawlessly, exhibiting consistent velocities and manageable recoil. The accuracy was immediately apparent, with my first three shots at 100 yards forming a tight cluster well under MOA.
There were no malfunctions or extraction issues, but I did notice the longer overall length compared to standard factory loads, confirming the warning about magazine compatibility.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, spanning multiple range sessions and a dedicated whitetail hunt, the Gunwerks ammunition has consistently impressed. The ammunition has proven incredibly reliable, showing no signs of degradation or performance loss, even after being stored in fluctuating temperatures.
Durability-wise, the brass cases have held up well to multiple reloads, showing no signs of excessive stretching or cracking. Cleaning my rifle after using this ammunition has been straightforward, with minimal fouling compared to some cheaper factory loads.
In comparison to my previous favorite, the Hornady ELD-X, the Gunwerks ammunition appears to offer a slight edge in terms of extreme long-range accuracy and terminal performance. It’s a premium option that justifies its higher price point for dedicated shooters who demand the best.
Breaking Down the Features of Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off
Specifications
- Caliber: 7mm Remington Magnum, a proven choice for long-range hunting and target shooting. This caliber provides excellent ballistics and manageable recoil in most rifle platforms.
- Bullet Weight: 168 grain, a popular weight for 7mm Rem Mag, offering a good balance of velocity and ballistic coefficient. This weight tends to stabilize well in various barrel twist rates common in 7mm rifles.
- Bullet Type: Berger VLD Hunting, designed for deep penetration and rapid expansion upon impact. The VLD (Very Low Drag) design ensures a high ballistic coefficient for flat trajectories and minimal wind drift.
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass, the industry standard for reloadability and consistent performance. Brass cases provide reliable sealing and are easy to resize for reloading.
- Number of Rounds: 20, a standard box quantity for hunting ammunition. This allows for adequate practice and hunting rounds in a single purchase.
- Application: Hunting, specifically designed for ethical and effective harvesting of game animals. The bullet’s terminal performance is optimized for quick and humane kills.
- Primer Style: Centerfire, ensuring reliable ignition in a wide range of conditions. Centerfire primers are less susceptible to misfires than rimfire primers.
- Manufacturer: Gunwerks, known for their high-quality rifle systems and ammunition. Gunwerks ammunition is hand-loaded with meticulous inspection and quality control.
Performance & Functionality
The Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag ammunition delivers exceptional accuracy, consistently producing sub-MOA groups in my rifle. Its reliability is unwavering, with no malfunctions experienced across numerous range sessions and a hunting trip.
The strengths lie in its precision and devastating terminal performance. The Berger VLD bullet consistently delivers rapid expansion and deep penetration, ensuring quick and ethical kills on game.
One area for potential improvement is the magazine compatibility issue. Shooters with rifles that have shorter magazine boxes may encounter feeding problems due to the longer overall cartridge length.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition is meticulously assembled with high-quality components. The brass cases are clean and consistent, and the bullets are seated perfectly, reflecting excellent quality control.
While ammunition itself isn’t inherently ergonomic, the consistent performance and predictable recoil contribute to a more comfortable and confident shooting experience. This allows shooters to focus on their technique rather than worrying about ammunition inconsistencies.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass cases are durable and reloadable, extending the life of each cartridge. Minimal fouling makes cleaning the rifle straightforward and easy, further contributing to the longevity of the firearm.
Proper storage is essential, as with all ammunition, to prevent degradation due to moisture or extreme temperatures. When stored correctly, this ammunition should perform reliably for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ammunition itself doesn’t offer direct customization options, but it is compatible with various reloading components. Reloaders can fine-tune the load to their specific rifle and shooting conditions.
The Gunwerks ammunition is designed to perform optimally with their rifles but can also be used effectively in other 7mm Rem Mag rifles. Shooters can pair this ammunition with high-quality optics and a stable shooting platform to maximize its long-range potential.
Pros and Cons of Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently produces sub-MOA groups, providing confidence in long-range shooting scenarios.
- Devastating Terminal Performance: The Berger VLD bullet ensures rapid expansion and deep penetration for ethical and humane kills.
- High-Quality Components: Meticulously assembled with premium brass cases, bullets, and primers for consistent performance.
- Reloadable Brass: Extends the life of each cartridge and allows for customized loads.
- Consistent Performance: Reliable ignition and predictable ballistics across various conditions.
Cons
- Price: A premium ammunition option, which may be prohibitive for high-volume shooters.
- Magazine Compatibility: Longer overall cartridge length may cause feeding issues in rifles with shorter magazine boxes.
Who Should Buy Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off?
The Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition is perfect for serious hunters seeking ethical and effective long-range performance. Competitive shooters demanding extreme accuracy and consistent results will also benefit from this ammunition.
Casual shooters who primarily engage in short-range target practice may find the price point unjustifiable. Those with rifles that have known magazine length limitations should also proceed with caution or consider other ammunition options.
A high-quality scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments is a must-have accessory to take full advantage of this ammunition’s long-range capabilities. A stable shooting platform, such as a bipod or shooting rest, is also highly recommended for maximizing accuracy.
Conclusion on Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off
The Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition AY-M6015 $16.61 Off is a premium offering that delivers on its promise of long-range accuracy and devastating terminal performance. It’s a testament to Gunwerks‘ commitment to quality and precision.
The price is undoubtedly a significant factor, but for those who demand the best and prioritize ethical hunting or competitive success, the investment is justified. This ammunition inspires confidence and consistently performs when it matters most.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Gunwerks 7 Rem Mag 168 Grain Berger VLD Brass Rifle Ammunition to anyone seeking a competitive edge or a more humane hunting experience at extended ranges. Invest in your success and experience the difference that quality ammunition can make.