What Makes Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super Stand Out?
The Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super is a centerfire rifle cartridge designed for optimal performance in 6.8 SPC rifles. Manufactured by Hornady, this ammunition aims to deliver superior accuracy, consistent expansion, and impressive energy transfer for hunting and tactical applications. Its reputation for quality components and reliable performance sets it apart in a market saturated with various ammunition options.
My quest for the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super stemmed from a need for reliable and accurate ammunition for deer hunting in dense woodland environments. I needed a round that could deliver a quick, ethical kill within reasonable ranges while maintaining accuracy through brush. I was looking for a round that balanced manageable recoil with sufficient stopping power.
Upon opening the box, I immediately noticed the clean, consistent construction of each cartridge. The brass casings looked pristine, and the Super Shock Tip bullets were uniform in shape and seating depth. The weight of the cartridges felt consistent, suggesting tight quality control during the manufacturing process.
Compared to the Federal Fusion 6.8 SPC and the Remington Premier AccuTip 6.8 SPC, the Hornady Custom promised a better balance of expansion and penetration based on Hornady’s reputation. While the Federal Fusion is known for excellent weight retention and deep penetration, and the Remington AccuTip for rapid expansion, the Hornady seemed to offer a middle ground suitable for a wider range of game and distances. Ultimately, Hornady’s consistent positive reviews swayed my decision.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. While I trusted Hornady’s reputation, the true test would come at the range and, more importantly, in the field. I was eager to see if the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super at a local shooting range to establish a baseline for accuracy and consistency. The range offered distances from 25 to 200 yards, allowing for a comprehensive assessment of the round’s performance. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing.
The ammunition performed exceptionally well, producing tight groupings at 100 yards, consistently under 1.5 inches with my AR-15 platform. Even at 200 yards, the groups remained respectable, staying within 3 inches. Recoil was manageable and predictable, allowing for quick follow-up shots.
The cartridges fed smoothly and reliably in my rifle, with no malfunctions or failures to eject. The consistency of the rounds instilled confidence. There were no immediate issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a full deer hunting season, the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super has proven to be remarkably reliable. I’ve fired hundreds of rounds without a single misfire or feeding issue. This consistent performance has made it my go-to ammunition for hunting.
I’ve not observed any significant signs of wear and tear beyond typical fouling. Regular cleaning of the rifle after each use has been sufficient to maintain optimal performance. The brass casings have held up well to reloading, though I’ve only reloaded a few batches to evaluate their longevity.
Compared to previous hunting seasons using other ammunition brands, the Hornady Custom has delivered more consistent and ethical kills. The bullet expansion seems to be optimal, resulting in minimal meat damage while ensuring sufficient penetration to reach vital organs. It has significantly outperformed my previous budget hunting ammo.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super
Specifications
- Caliber: 6.8mm Remington SPC. This caliber offers a good balance of power and manageable recoil.
- Bullet Weight: 120 grain. The 120-grain bullet is heavy enough to provide good ballistic coefficient and energy retention.
- Bullet Type: Super Shock Tip (SST). The SST bullet is designed for rapid expansion and deep penetration.
- Muzzle Velocity: Typically around 2460 fps from a 16-inch barrel. This velocity provides a flat trajectory and sufficient energy for effective hunting at moderate ranges.
- Muzzle Energy: Approximately 1612 ft-lbs. This energy level is sufficient for taking down medium-sized game like deer and hogs.
- These specifications combine to create a cartridge optimized for both accuracy and terminal performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super excels in both accuracy and terminal ballistics. Accuracy is consistently sub-MOA in most well-maintained 6.8 SPC rifles. Functionally, the rounds feed reliably, and the controlled expansion of the SST bullet ensures effective energy transfer on target.
The primary strength is the consistent and reliable performance across various rifles and environmental conditions. The only slight weakness is a relatively higher price point compared to some bulk ammunition options. It more than meets expectations for a premium hunting round.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the cartridge is straightforward and functional. The brass casing is of high quality. The overall weight and balance contribute to manageable recoil in AR-15 platforms chambered in 6.8 SPC.
The cartridge is designed to be user-friendly, with easy loading and reliable cycling in compatible rifles. The SST bullet profile ensures smooth feeding from standard magazines. There is no noticeable learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
Assuming proper storage, the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super should last for many years. The brass casing is reloadable, adding to its lifespan. Minimal maintenance is required beyond keeping the ammunition dry and free from extreme temperatures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super does not require any specific accessories or modifications. It’s designed to perform optimally in standard 6.8 SPC rifles. While not accessories, proper sighting systems such as a quality scope or red dot will optimize accuracy.
The ammunition is compatible with most standard 6.8 SPC magazines and rifles. There are no known compatibility issues with aftermarket triggers or other rifle components.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA performance in most 6.8 SPC rifles.
- Reliable Expansion: The SST bullet is designed for controlled expansion and deep penetration.
- Consistent Performance: Functions reliably across various rifles and environmental conditions.
- Effective Energy Transfer: Provides sufficient energy to ethically harvest medium-sized game.
- High-Quality Components: Uses premium brass casings and meticulously crafted bullets.
Cons
- Relatively Higher Price: Costs more than some bulk or budget ammunition options.
- Not Ideal for Long-Range: Best performance is within moderate hunting ranges (under 300 yards).
Who Should Buy Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super?
Perfect for: Hunters seeking a reliable and accurate cartridge for medium-sized game like deer, hogs, and predators within moderate ranges. Also, shooters who prioritize consistent performance and ethical harvests. The Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super is also ideal for tactical applications where accuracy and reliable terminal ballistics are crucial.
Who should skip this product? High-volume shooters looking for the cheapest possible ammunition for target practice may find the Hornady Custom to be cost-prohibitive. Those exclusively engaging in long-range shooting may prefer a cartridge optimized for longer distances and higher ballistic coefficients.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality optic, such as a 1-6x or 2-7x scope, is essential for maximizing the accuracy potential of this ammunition. A properly zeroed rifle and consistent shooting technique are also crucial.
Conclusion on Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super
The Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super stands out as a premium hunting cartridge that delivers on its promises of accuracy, reliability, and consistent terminal performance. Its superior components and carefully engineered design make it a top choice for hunters and tactical shooters alike. The price is justified by the exceptional quality and performance.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Custom 6.8mm Remington SPC 120 grain Super to anyone seeking a dependable and accurate cartridge for their 6.8 SPC rifle. Upgrade your ammunition and experience the difference Hornady quality makes.