Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500

The Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 is a reloaders dream come true, offering match-grade performance at a price point that doesn’t require selling off other vital reloading equipment. From Hornady, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in the ammunition world, these bullets promise consistent performance and accuracy for the discerning shooter. This isn’t just about putting holes in paper; it’s about achieving repeatable precision.

My journey to these bullets began with a quest for consistent sub-MOA accuracy in my 6.5 Creedmoor rifle without breaking the bank. I needed a bullet that could deliver reliable performance for both target shooting and potentially hunting medium-sized game.

Upon receiving the Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500, I was immediately impressed by the uniformity of the projectiles. The sleek profile and consistent weight suggested a dedication to quality control.

Compared to Nosler Accubonds or Sierra MatchKings, the Hornady offered a compelling balance of price and performance. While the Nosler excels in hunting applications, and the Sierra offers ultimate match precision, the Hornady aims for a sweet spot between the two. My initial hope was these bullets would bridge that gap.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The promise of match-winning performance at an affordable price was exciting, but the proof would be in the pudding – or rather, on the target.


Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 took place at my local shooting range, under relatively mild conditions. I loaded them using Hodgdon H4350 powder and CCI primers, carefully working up a load that showed promise in terms of velocity and accuracy.

The bullets performed remarkably well, delivering tight groupings at 100 and 200 yards. Even with a slight crosswind, the bullets held their line and grouped consistently. The ease of loading was noticeable; their consistent dimensions made for smooth seating and crimping.

There were no immediate issues. I was surprised by the consistency in velocity readings across my chronograph, indicating a tight manufacturing tolerance.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use and various reloading recipes, the Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 has consistently delivered excellent results. There has been no degradation in performance, with shot after shot impacting predictably.

The bullets have proven durable, showing no signs of deformation during loading or firing. Their consistent seating depth and ogive contribute to this robust performance.

Maintenance is virtually nonexistent, aside from proper storage to prevent corrosion or damage. Compared to some cheaper bullets, the Hornady projectiles maintain their integrity and do not require excessive cleaning after handling. They consistently outperform the lesser brands I’ve tried in the past.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500

Specifications

  • Caliber: 6.5mm (.264). This specifies the diameter of the bullet, ensuring compatibility with 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5×55 Swede, and other 6.5mm cartridges.
  • Bullet Weight: 140 grain. This is a common and versatile weight for 6.5mm bullets, balancing ballistic coefficient and sectional density for optimal performance.
  • Projectile Caliber: .264 Caliber. This reiterates the bullet diameter for clarity and confirms it is a true 6.5mm projectile.
  • Bullet Quantity: 500 Bullet. This provides the quantity of bullets included in the package, making it suitable for high-volume shooters and reloaders.
  • The Hornady bullets’ consistent weight and dimensions allow for repeatable results and accurate reloading.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 performs exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and consistency. Its streamlined profile contributes to a high ballistic coefficient, allowing for minimal drop and wind drift at longer ranges.

The bullets are reliable and predictable, provided proper reloading techniques are followed. There’s always room for improvement in any product, but I can’t complain about sub-MOA groupings.

The Hornady projectiles meet and often exceed my expectations, particularly given their price point. I have achieved consistent accuracy levels that rival more expensive match bullets.

Design & Ergonomics

The bullet’s design is focused on functionality, with a secant ogive and boat tail designed for optimal aerodynamics. The bullets are comfortable to handle and easy to seat during the reloading process.

There is no real learning curve associated with using these bullets. Reloaders with some experience should be able to achieve excellent results with minimal effort.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady projectiles are expected to last indefinitely if stored properly in a cool, dry environment. These are component bullets, so durability relates to their ability to withstand the reloading process and maintain their form during firing.

Maintenance is minimal; keep them clean and dry before loading. No repairs are necessary, as they are single-use projectiles.

Accessories and Customization Options

There are no direct accessories for these bullets. The customization options are primarily related to load development, allowing reloaders to experiment with different powders, primers, and seating depths to achieve optimal performance.

These bullets are compatible with standard reloading equipment and dies. They can be used in conjunction with a variety of powders and primers from different brands.

Pros and Cons of Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500

Pros

  • Consistent Accuracy: Delivers sub-MOA performance when properly loaded, leading to more confident shooting.
  • Affordable Price: Offers match-grade quality without breaking the bank, making it accessible to a wider range of reloaders.
  • High Ballistic Coefficient: Minimizes drop and wind drift at longer ranges, enhancing long-range shooting capabilities.
  • Easy to Load: Uniform dimensions and consistent weight make the reloading process smooth and predictable.
  • Versatile Application: Suitable for both target shooting and hunting medium-sized game, increasing its overall utility.

Cons

  • Not Specifically Designed for Hunting: While capable for hunting, it lacks the specialized expansion characteristics of dedicated hunting bullets.
  • Load Development Required: Optimal performance requires careful load development, which may be time-consuming for some users.


Who Should Buy Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500?

Perfect for: Competitive shooters seeking an affordable and accurate bullet for practice and matches. Also ideal for hunters looking for a versatile bullet that can perform well on medium-sized game at moderate ranges. Reloaders wanting a consistent and reliable projectile for their 6.5mm cartridges will appreciate these.

Who should skip this product? Hunters primarily focused on large or dangerous game requiring specialized bullets with controlled expansion. Also, absolute beginners to reloading might find the load development process challenging initially.

Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality reloading press, accurate powder scale, and a reliable chronograph are essential for maximizing the performance of these bullets. A good set of 6.5mm reloading dies is also a must.

Conclusion on Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500

In summary, the Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 offers a compelling combination of accuracy, consistency, and affordability. It is an excellent choice for reloaders looking to achieve match-grade performance without the premium price tag.

The price is definitely justified, given the level of precision and consistency these bullets provide. They represent a fantastic value for the money.

I would absolutely recommend the Hornady 6.5mm .264 140 Grain Bullet, 500 to anyone seeking reliable and accurate performance from their 6.5mm rifles. If you are looking for a bullet that can deliver consistent results at the range or in the field, look no further. Grab a box (or a case!) and get reloading. You won’t be disappointed!

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Scroll to Top