Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain Review

Let’s Dive into Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain are a precision reloading component designed for shooters demanding top-tier accuracy and consistent performance, particularly at extended ranges. Manufactured by Hornady, a reputable name in the ammunition and reloading industry, these bullets utilize an innovative Heat Shield tip and advanced manufacturing processes to achieve exceptional ballistic coefficients and minimal drag. This, in turn, translates to flatter trajectories, reduced wind drift, and enhanced downrange energy retention, making them a favorite among competitive shooters and long-range enthusiasts.

My journey to these bullets started with a nagging problem: inconsistent groupings at distances beyond 600 yards with my custom 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. I was looking for a bullet that would minimize the effects of wind and provide the consistent ballistic coefficient necessary for predictable long-range performance. I was hoping that the Hornady ELD Match would be that bullet.

Unboxing the Hornady ELD Match, I was immediately struck by the uniform appearance and clean finish of each bullet. The Heat Shield tip looked incredibly precise, and the boat tail design appeared flawlessly executed. The bullets felt substantial, and there were no noticeable imperfections or inconsistencies in weight.

Compared to Sierra MatchKing and Nosler Custom Competition bullets, the Hornady ELD Match stood out due to its advertised high ballistic coefficient and its resistance to drag-inducing tip deformation. I chose the Hornady because I wanted to leverage its technology for long range shooting.

My initial impression was one of excitement and cautious optimism. If these bullets lived up to the hype, they could be the key to unlocking the full potential of my rifle at long distances. I couldn’t wait to get to the range and put them to the test.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain to the Test

First Use Experience

My first experience with the Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain was at my local shooting range, which offers distances out to 1000 yards. I carefully hand-loaded these bullets with a consistent powder charge and high-quality primers, aiming for optimal consistency. The chronograph confirmed my suspicions – velocity variations were exceptionally low, indicating a consistent burn and reliable performance.

The day was relatively calm, but with subtle wind shifts that would normally throw my shots off course. I was pleasantly surprised to see significantly less wind drift compared to the bullets I had used previously. At 600 yards, my groups were noticeably tighter, clustering around 1 MOA – a significant improvement.

The bullets were relatively easy to load, and I experienced no issues with seating depth or consistent neck tension. However, I noted that the tips are slightly more delicate than some other match bullets and require careful handling during the reloading process. This is a minor quibble.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hornady ELD Match bullets have consistently delivered exceptional accuracy and predictable performance. Even in challenging conditions, such as hot weather and variable winds, they have maintained tight groupings and minimized the impact of external factors. They have proven to be incredibly reliable.

I’ve noticed no degradation in performance over time. The bullets still load easily, and the ballistic consistency remains impressive. Proper storage is key to maintaining their condition, as with any reloading component.

Compared to my previous experiences with Sierra MatchKing bullets, the Hornady ELD Match has proven to be superior in terms of wind resistance and downrange energy retention. While both bullets are accurate, the Hornady offers a clear advantage at distances beyond 600 yards, making it a worthwhile upgrade for serious long-range shooters. The Hornady bullets consistently group tighter than anything else I’ve tried.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain

Specifications

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain boast a Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) design for enhanced aerodynamic efficiency. Their caliber is .264, specifically designed for 6.5mm cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 Grendel. Each bullet weighs 120 grains, a popular weight for achieving a balance of velocity and ballistic coefficient in 6.5mm cartridges.

The bullets have a sectional density of 0.246, which contributes to their penetration capabilities. The core material is lead, a common choice for achieving optimal bullet weight and stability. They are sold in boxes of 100, providing an adequate supply for reloading sessions.

The bullet jackets are made from Hornady’s AMP (Advanced Manufacturing Process) technology, known for its exceptional concentricity and uniformity. These specifications translate to enhanced accuracy and consistent performance at extended ranges. The Heat Shield tip is designed to resist deformation during flight, maintaining a consistent ballistic coefficient.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain perform exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and reliability. In my testing, they consistently produced sub-MOA groups at distances out to 800 yards, and even beyond with careful load development. They maintain their velocity and energy effectively, providing ample stopping power for ethical hunting at reasonable distances.

The primary strength of these bullets lies in their ability to minimize the effects of wind drift and maintain a flat trajectory. The Heat Shield tip is crucial in maintaining a consistent ballistic coefficient throughout the bullet’s flight. One potential area for improvement would be to offer a lead-free option for shooters in areas with restrictions on lead ammunition.

Overall, the Hornady ELD Match bullets meet and exceed my expectations in terms of accuracy, consistency, and long-range performance. They are a top-tier choice for shooters who demand the best.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain is excellent, with each bullet exhibiting a uniform appearance and precise dimensions. The materials used are of high quality, contributing to their durability and consistent performance. Their weight and shape are optimized for aerodynamic efficiency.

The bullets are easy to handle and seat during the reloading process. The boat tail design facilitates smooth insertion into the case neck. There is no significant learning curve associated with using these bullets, although careful handling of the tips is recommended to prevent damage.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain are inherently durable due to their solid construction and high-quality materials. With proper storage and handling, they should last indefinitely. The AMP jackets are resistant to corrosion and deformation.

There is no specific maintenance required for these bullets beyond proper storage in a cool, dry place. Avoid exposing them to excessive heat or moisture, which could potentially degrade their performance. They are designed for single-use and not for reloading after firing.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain do not come with any specific accessories, as they are intended to be used as reloading components. However, they can be used with a variety of different powders, primers, and cases to achieve custom loads.

These bullets are compatible with any rifle chambered in 6.5mm, specifically .264 caliber. Common modifications include adjusting seating depth and powder charge to optimize accuracy for a specific rifle. They also work well with aftermarket magazines designed for 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.

Pros and Cons of Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain

Who Should Buy Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain?

The Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain are perfect for competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and precision hunters who demand the highest levels of accuracy and consistency. They are ideally suited for individuals who reload their own ammunition and have the knowledge and equipment to develop custom loads.

Hunters seeking to ethically harvest game at longer distances will appreciate the bullet’s ability to maintain energy and minimize wind drift. Individuals who live in areas with lead ammunition restrictions or prefer to use lead-free alternatives should seek other options. Shooters new to reloading may find these bullets more challenging to work with due to the need for precise load development.

A quality reloading press, accurate powder scale, and precise seating die are must-have accessories for achieving optimal results with these bullets. Chronographing loads and carefully adjusting seating depth are recommended for fine-tuning performance.

Conclusion on Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain

In summary, the Hornady ELD Match Rifle Bullets, 6.5mm, .264, 120 Grain are a top-tier choice for shooters who demand exceptional accuracy and consistent performance at extended ranges. Their high ballistic coefficient, quality construction, and user-friendly design make them a worthwhile investment for serious long-range shooting.

The price is justified by the level of performance and consistency they deliver. While the tips are somewhat delicate, this is a minor trade-off for the benefits they provide.

I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone seeking to improve their long-range accuracy and minimize the impact of wind drift. If you are a serious shooter who is looking for that extra edge, then give these bullets a try. You won’t be disappointed!