Let’s Dive into **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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The Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition has become a staple in the precision shooting world, and for good reason. This ammunition, manufactured by Hornady, is designed for exceptional accuracy and consistency, making it a favorite among competitive shooters and long-range enthusiasts alike. The ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match bullet is the star of the show, promising superior ballistic performance.
I was looking for ammunition that could consistently deliver sub-MOA accuracy out of my custom-built 6.5 Creedmoor rifle. My previous loads were decent, but I yearned for that extra edge in consistency, especially at longer distances. The promise of the ELD bullet’s performance is what initially drew me in.
The Hornady Match ammunition arrived in the familiar red and white box, clearly marked with the 6.5 Creedmoor designation and the prominent “Match” label. The rounds themselves looked pristine, with clean, consistent bullet seating and a noticeable boat tail design. Right away, the quality of the brass cases was evident.
I was also considering the Federal Gold Medal Berger 6.5 Creedmoor and the Prime Ammunition 6.5 Creedmoor. I ultimately chose the Hornady due to its widespread availability, established reputation for accuracy, and the positive feedback I’d received from fellow shooters on the ELD bullet. I was definitely excited to get to the range and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition was at my local outdoor shooting range, under relatively calm and sunny conditions. I tested it in my Savage Arms 110 Ultralite Elite with a 24-inch barrel. The goal was to zero my scope and then evaluate the ammo’s accuracy at 100 and 200 yards.
The ammunition performed flawlessly. Feeding and extraction were smooth, and the recoil was manageable. The standout aspect was the tight groupings I was achieving almost immediately. There were no misfires or any other malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, I’ve put hundreds of rounds of this Hornady ammunition through my rifle. It has consistently delivered exceptional accuracy, maintaining sub-MOA groupings even in varying weather conditions. This included shooting in slightly windy conditions and in temperatures ranging from 40 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
I have not observed any significant wear and tear on my rifle due to this ammunition. Cleaning is straightforward; the powder burn is relatively clean, leaving minimal residue in the bore. It has significantly outperformed my previous handloads in terms of consistency and accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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Specifications
- Caliber: 6.5mm Creedmoor. This offers a great balance of long-range performance and manageable recoil.
- Bullet Weight: 120 grain. A lighter bullet allows for higher velocities and flatter trajectories, particularly at shorter to medium ranges.
- Bullet Type: Spitzer Boat Tail (SBT) ELD Match. The ELD Match bullet features a heat shield tip designed to resist aerodynamic heating, maintaining a consistent BC.
- Muzzle Velocity: 2910 ft/s. This high velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory and improved long-range performance.
- Muzzle Energy: 2256 ft-lbs. Sufficient energy for target shooting and even some hunting applications.
- G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.486. Indicates a streamlined bullet shape, reducing drag and improving long-range stability.
- G7 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.245. A more accurate representation of ballistic performance for boat-tail bullets.
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Brass cases are reloadable, extending the value of this ammunition.
- Primer Style: Centerfire. Reliable and consistent ignition.
- Application: Competition, Target. Specifically designed for accuracy and precision in competitive shooting and target practice.
- Sectional Density: 0.246. A good indicator of penetration potential for hunting.
The specifications are critical for understanding the performance advantages of this ammunition. The ELD Match bullet, with its high ballistic coefficients, is designed to maintain velocity and resist wind drift, resulting in superior accuracy at long ranges. The quality brass cases and consistent primers ensure reliable performance and reloadability.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition performs exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and consistency. In my rifle, it consistently achieves sub-MOA accuracy at 100 and 200 yards, and I’ve seen similar results reported by other shooters. The muzzle velocity is consistent with the advertised specifications, and the recoil is manageable.
The main strength is undoubtedly the accuracy and consistency. The only minor weakness is the higher price point compared to some other target ammunition, but the performance justifies the cost. It exceeds expectations in terms of accuracy and overall reliability.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition is well-designed and manufactured to high standards. The bullets are seated consistently, and the brass cases are of excellent quality. The weight is consistent from round to round, contributing to the overall accuracy.
The ammunition is easy to handle and load into magazines. There is no learning curve involved; it’s a straightforward and user-friendly product.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass cases are durable and reloadable, extending the lifespan of the ammunition. With proper storage, this ammunition should last for many years.
Cleaning the rifle after using this ammunition is relatively easy. The powder burn is clean, and there is minimal residue in the bore.
Accessories and Customization Options
The ammunition itself doesn’t require any accessories or customization options. However, it is best used with high-quality optics and a well-tuned rifle for optimal performance. Reloading the brass cases allows for further customization, such as experimenting with different powders and seating depths to fine-tune accuracy.
The Hornady brass cases are compatible with most standard reloading dies and equipment. The ammunition pairs well with high-magnification scopes and precision rifle chassis systems.
Pros and Cons of **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA performance.
- High Ballistic Coefficient: The ELD bullet design provides superior long-range performance and resistance to wind drift.
- Consistent Muzzle Velocity: Ensures predictable trajectories and reliable accuracy.
- High-Quality Components: Uses premium brass cases and reliable primers for consistent performance.
- Reloadable Brass Cases: Extends the value of the ammunition for those who reload.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: More expensive than some other target ammunition options.
- May Not Be Ideal for All Rifles: Some rifles may perform better with different bullet weights or loads.
Who Should Buy **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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This ammunition is perfect for competitive shooters, long-range enthusiasts, and hunters who demand the highest levels of accuracy and consistency. It’s ideal for those who are looking to achieve sub-MOA performance and want reliable results. It is also great for reloaders.
Those who primarily shoot at very short ranges (under 100 yards) or who are on a tight budget might find other, more economical options suitable. Individuals with rifles that consistently perform better with heavier bullets might also want to explore other options.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality scope with precise adjustments, a stable shooting platform such as a bipod or tripod, and a chronograph to verify muzzle velocity and consistency.
Conclusion on **Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition
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The Hornady Match 6.5mm Creedmoor 120 Grain Extremely Low Drag Match Centerfire Rifle Ammunition is a top-tier product that delivers on its promise of exceptional accuracy and consistency. While it may be more expensive than some other options, the performance justifies the cost for serious shooters. The value proposition is high, especially for those who demand the best possible results from their 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.
I would absolutely recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate load for competition, long-range shooting, or hunting. It’s a product that has consistently exceeded my expectations. Invest in your accuracy – give the Hornady Match 6.5 Creedmoor a try and experience the difference for yourself!