What Makes Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag Stand Out?
The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag ammunition isn’t just another round; it’s a purpose-built solution designed to push the AR-15 platform to its absolute ballistic limits. Developed by Hornady, this ammunition promises exceptional accuracy and long-range performance, packaged in a cartridge that fits the ubiquitous AR-15. Its high ballistic coefficient (BC) and optimized design are what initially caught my eye, along with the promise of sub-MOA accuracy, all while chambered in the increasingly popular 6mm ARC.
I was looking for a load that would extend my effective range with my AR-15, particularly for precision shooting and potential varmint hunting at longer distances. Standard 5.56 NATO just wasn’t cutting it past 500 yards. The promise of the 6mm ARC, especially with a bullet like the Hornady 108 grain ELD Match, seemed like the perfect answer to achieving flatter trajectories and higher retained energy.
The packaging is typical Hornady – clean, informative, and functional. Upon opening, the rounds looked pristine, with consistent bullet seating and clean brass. The weight felt substantial, hinting at the quality components used.
I considered the Federal Gold Medal 6mm ARC 107 grain Sierra MatchKing and the Prime Ammunition 6mm ARC 107 grain HPBT. Ultimately, I went with the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag due to Hornady’s reputation for consistent quality, readily available load data, and the proven performance of the ELD Match bullet design.
Initial impressions were very positive. The rounds exuded quality and precision. I felt eager to get to the range and see if they lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag was at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offers distances out to 600 yards, which I was particularly excited to test. The weather was clear, with a slight crosswind of around 5 mph.
The ammunition performed exceptionally well. I fired from both a prone position using a bipod and from a supported bench. The recoil was minimal, even less than typical 5.56 NATO, making it very comfortable for extended shooting sessions.
There were no malfunctions or issues of any kind. The ammunition fed smoothly, ejected cleanly, and ignited consistently. The accuracy was immediately apparent, with tight groupings forming at 100 yards.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag has consistently delivered outstanding performance. I’ve used it in temperatures ranging from 30°F to 90°F with no noticeable change in performance.
The rounds have held up well, with no signs of degradation or issues related to storage. I store my ammunition in airtight containers in a cool, dry place. Cleaning my rifle after each session is a breeze, with minimal fouling and easy removal of carbon deposits.
Compared to my previous experiences with other match-grade ammunition, the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag has been remarkably consistent. It noticeably outperforms typical 5.56 NATO in terms of accuracy, range, and wind resistance. It also edges out other comparable 6mm ARC loads that I’ve tried in terms of group size at longer distances.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag
Specifications
- Caliber: 6mm ARC. This offers a balance between recoil and long-range performance in the AR-15 platform.
- Bullet Weight: 108 grains. This provides a high ballistic coefficient for improved trajectory and wind resistance.
- Bullet Type: ELD (Extremely Low Drag) Match. This design features a Heat Shield tip for consistent performance at varying velocities.
- Ballistic Coefficient (G1): .536 (approximate). This indicates the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance, crucial for long-range accuracy.
- Muzzle Velocity: Typically around 2750 fps (feet per second) from a 24-inch barrel. This velocity, combined with the bullet’s BC, provides a flat trajectory.
- Application: Match Shooting, Hunting, and Personal Defense. The bullet is versatile enough for multiple applications.
These specifications are significant because they allow the 6mm ARC to deliver impressive performance from the AR-15 platform. The high BC of the 108 grain ELD Match bullet translates to less bullet drop and wind drift at extended ranges, making it easier to achieve accurate shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag excels in accuracy and consistency. I consistently achieve sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groupings at 100 yards with a quality AR-15 build. This ammo makes consistent hits on steel targets at 600 yards possible, even with mild wind.
The ammunition performs exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and reliability. One potential area for improvement could be a slightly more affordable price point, but the performance justifies the cost. It significantly exceeds expectations for an AR-15 platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition is manufactured with high-quality components. The brass is clean and consistent, the bullet seating is precise, and the overall finish exudes quality. The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag bullet is comfortable to load into magazines and feed into the chamber smoothly.
There’s essentially no learning curve when using this ammunition. Simply load it into your magazines and fire. It’s user-friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass is reloadable, allowing for further cost savings and customization. The ammunition shows no signs of degradation over time when stored properly, suggesting it will last for years. Easy bore cleaning due to reduced fouling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag ammunition is compatible with any AR-15 platform chambered in 6mm ARC. It performs best with quality optics that allow for precise aiming and ballistic drop compensation (BDC).
The ammunition is also suitable for use with aftermarket triggers that provide a lighter and more consistent trigger pull. No must-have customization.
Pros and Cons of Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag
Pros
- Sub-MOA accuracy potential, significantly improving long-range capability.
- High ballistic coefficient (BC) for flatter trajectories and reduced wind drift.
- Consistent performance across various temperatures and conditions.
- Reloadable brass for cost savings and custom load development.
- Relatively low recoil compared to other long-range cartridges.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to standard 5.56 NATO ammunition.
- Can be difficult to find in stock at local retailers due to popularity.
Who Should Buy Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag?
The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag is perfect for competitive shooters, varmint hunters, and precision rifle enthusiasts looking to maximize the potential of their AR-15 platform. It’s also an excellent choice for anyone seeking a versatile cartridge that offers both accuracy and manageable recoil.
This might not be the best choice for casual plinkers or those primarily shooting at very short distances (under 100 yards), where the added cost and long-range benefits might not be fully realized. Additionally, if you’re not already invested in the 6mm ARC platform, the initial cost of a new barrel or rifle might be prohibitive.
Must-have accessories include a quality scope with appropriate magnification and ballistic drop compensation, a bipod or stable shooting rest, and a reliable rangefinder.
Conclusion on Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag
The Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag is a stellar performer that lives up to its promise of exceptional accuracy and long-range capability. While the price is higher than standard ammunition, the performance justifies the cost for those seeking to push the limits of their AR-15.
The price is justified by the consistent accuracy, high BC bullet, and overall quality of the ammunition. I wholeheartedly recommend the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag to anyone looking to elevate their AR-15’s performance to the next level.
If you’re serious about precision shooting or hunting with an AR-15, give the Hornady Match 6mm ARC 108 grain Extremely Low Drag a try. You won’t be disappointed.