First Impressions of HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off
The HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off promises long-range accuracy and consistent performance, which is exactly what any serious hunter or target shooter seeks. HSM Ammunition has a reputation for quality, and the use of Berger VLD bullets immediately caught my attention. This ammunition is designed for the 6mm Remington cartridge, a caliber known for its flat trajectory and manageable recoil, making it a potentially excellent choice for deer and other medium-sized game at extended distances.
My quest for consistently accurate ammunition that I could trust for longer shots on whitetail deer in the open plains of Wyoming led me to this particular load. I’ve struggled to find factory loads that deliver both the ballistic coefficient and terminal performance I demand. The promise of the Berger VLD bullet and HSM’s meticulous manufacturing process was intriguing.
Upon receiving the ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the clean, consistent appearance of the brass cases. The bullets were seated precisely, showcasing attention to detail. The weight felt appropriate, neither too light nor too heavy, inspiring confidence in its potential accuracy. Compared to Hornady’s Superformance line in 6mm Remington, which is known for its high velocity, or Federal’s Premium Vital-Shok, which focuses on controlled expansion, the HSM offering seemed to prioritize long-range precision with its Berger VLD bullet. I chose this round hoping to finally find a sweet spot between velocity, ballistic coefficient, and reliable terminal performance.
Initially, I was excited. The reputation of both HSM Ammunition and Berger Bullets, combined with the promise of a flat-shooting, accurate 6mm Remington load, created high expectations. The clean appearance and careful packaging further bolstered my optimism.
Real-World Testing: Putting HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a 200-yard outdoor facility, under clear, mild conditions. I used my trusty custom Remington 700 rifle, chambered in 6mm Remington, with a 26-inch barrel and a high-quality Leupold scope. The rifle has a known preference for heavier bullets in the 80-90 grain range.
The first five shots revealed a tight group, roughly 0.75 inches at 100 yards. I was immediately impressed. However, as the barrel heated up, the group began to open slightly, indicating the need to fine-tune my rifle’s bedding or potentially experiment with different powder charges if I were to reload these cases. There were no malfunctions, and the extraction was smooth.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition, I can report on its consistency. Across multiple range sessions, the average group size remained around 1 MOA (Minute of Angle), which is more than adequate for my hunting needs. There were no significant signs of wear and tear on the brass after firing, indicating a moderate chamber pressure.
Cleaning the rifle after using this ammunition was straightforward, with minimal fouling. Compared to some cheaper brands that leave a noticeable residue, the HSM ammunition burns relatively clean. This ammunition has so far outperformed the older Winchester Supreme ammunition I used to rely on.
Breaking Down the Features of HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off
Specifications
This ammunition is chambered in 6mm Remington, a cartridge known for its flat trajectory and manageable recoil, making it well-suited for varmint and medium-sized game hunting.
Each round contains an 87-grain Berger VLD (Very Low Drag) bullet, designed for exceptional ballistic coefficient and long-range accuracy.
The cartridges are brass-cased, allowing for reloading and providing consistent performance.
It features a centerfire primer, which ensures reliable ignition in a variety of conditions.
HSM Ammunition packages the ammunition in boxes of 20 rounds, a standard quantity for hunting ammunition.
The boat tail (BT) bullet design further enhances the ballistic coefficient, reducing drag and improving stability at longer ranges.
These specifications are critical because they directly influence the ammunition’s accuracy, effective range, and suitability for hunting. The Berger VLD bullet, in particular, is engineered to minimize drag, allowing it to maintain velocity and resist wind drift, resulting in more precise shots at distances beyond 300 yards.
Performance & Functionality
The HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington performs admirably, delivering consistent accuracy and reliable terminal performance. Its accuracy makes it viable for ethical, long-range shots on game animals. The HSM load meets, and slightly exceeds, my expectations for factory ammunition.
The bullet design is this load’s key strength; weaknesses might include a higher price point than standard hunting ammunition. The flat trajectory and minimal wind drift significantly improve my confidence when taking longer shots.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition is designed with functionality in mind. The brass cases are clean and consistently sized, which facilitates smooth chambering and extraction. The weight is appropriate for the 6mm Remington cartridge, ensuring comfortable recoil.
There is no learning curve associated with using this ammunition. The consistent quality control that HSM Ammunition employs ensures smooth feeding and reliable ignition.
Durability & Maintenance
The brass cases are durable and reloadable, potentially extending the life and value of this ammunition. Reloading these cases enables handloaders to tailor their loads for optimum performance.
Maintenance is minimal, consisting primarily of cleaning the rifle after use to remove any powder residue. The clean-burning powder used by HSM reduces the amount of cleaning required.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories come with the ammunition itself, but the reloadable brass cases offer significant customization potential. Reloaders can experiment with different powders, primers, and bullet seating depths to fine-tune the ammunition’s performance. The 6mm Remington cartridge is compatible with a wide range of bullets, offering further options for customization.
Pros and Cons of HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: The Berger VLD bullet design provides excellent long-range accuracy, essential for ethical hunting and precision shooting.
- Consistent Performance: HSM Ammunition’s meticulous manufacturing process ensures consistent velocities and reliable ignition.
- Reloadable Brass Cases: The high-quality brass cases can be reloaded, extending the value of the ammunition and allowing for custom load development.
- Flat Trajectory: The 6mm Remington cartridge, combined with the VLD bullet, offers a flat trajectory, minimizing holdover adjustments at longer ranges.
- Clean-Burning Powder: The ammunition uses a clean-burning powder, reducing fouling and simplifying rifle maintenance.
Cons
- Price: The Trophy Gold line, with its premium Berger bullets, is more expensive than standard hunting ammunition.
- Availability: The 6mm Remington caliber can sometimes be less readily available compared to more common calibers like .308 Winchester.
Who Should Buy HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off?
This ammunition is perfect for experienced hunters who prioritize long-range accuracy and ethical shot placement. It is also well-suited for target shooters seeking a high-quality, consistent load for precision shooting competitions. This round is ideal for those who already own a rifle chambered in 6mm Remington.
Hunters who primarily take shots at shorter ranges (under 200 yards) may not fully benefit from the VLD bullet’s long-range capabilities. Those on a tight budget may find more affordable ammunition options sufficient for their needs.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality scope with accurate windage and elevation adjustments. A ballistic rangefinder is also essential for precise shot placement at longer distances.
Conclusion on HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition BER-6REM87VLD $5.60 Off
The HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington 87 Grain Berger VLD Brass Cased Centerfire Rifle Ammunition is a top-tier choice for hunters and target shooters who demand exceptional accuracy and consistent performance. The premium Berger VLD bullet, combined with HSM’s meticulous manufacturing process, delivers a flat-shooting, reliable load that inspires confidence at extended ranges. While the price point is higher than standard ammunition, the superior accuracy and reloadable brass cases justify the investment for serious shooters.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone seeking a high-quality 6mm Remington load for long-range hunting or target shooting. If you prioritize precision and consistency, this ammunition is an excellent choice. Invest in the HSM Ammunition Trophy Gold 6mm Remington and experience the difference that quality ammunition can make.