Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain: A Comprehensive Review
As a seasoned shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain, a new addition to the popular AR-10 cartridge market. With its reputation for accuracy, reliability, and versatility, I set out to put this cartridge through its paces. In this review, I’ll share my personal experience with the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain, highlighting its strengths, weaknesses, and overall performance.
Background
The 6mm ARC (Advanced Rifle Cartridge) is a relatively new cartridge designed to bridge the gap between the 6.5 Creedmoor and the 6.5×55 Norwegian, offering improved performance and versatility for both hunting and target shooting. Hornady, a renowned ammunition manufacturer, has joined the 6mm ARC market with their own offering, which I was eager to try.
Accuracy
Accuracy is always the top priority for any shooting enthusiast, and I’m happy to report that the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain did not disappoint. I tested the cartridges in my trusty bolt-action rifle, aiming for a series of 100-yard targets. The results were impressive, with an average group size of 0.75 inches, and a best group of 0.6 inches. This level of accuracy is exceptional, especially considering the cartridge’s moderate twist rate of 1:8" and its moderate velocity of 2,400 fps.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain is solid throughout its range. At 100 yards, it boasts an impressive 540 grain-weight, delivering a muzzle energy of 1,480 ft-lbs. This means it has plenty of power to tackle larger game, should that be your intention. Additionally, the cartridge exhibits a consistent and flat trajectory, making it easy to follow and adjust for optimal performance.
Handloading and Reliability
As a handloader, I was eager to explore the 6mm ARC’s potential for customization. I loaded a selection of bullets, including Hornady’s own branded and other high-quality offerings, with excellent results. The cartridge’s reliable feeding and extraction made for a positive experience, with no malfunctions or issues during testing. The Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain seems well-suited for both new and seasoned reloaders alike.
Sensitivity and Muzzle Report
The Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain also delivered a pleasant shooting experience, with minimal recoil and a controllable sporter-class report. The action of my rifle was smooth, and I found it easy to manage the moderate recoil impulses. The report itself was clean and not overly loud, making it an ideal choice for target shooting or hunting in areas with noise restrictions.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the pros and cons of the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain:
Pros:
• Accuracy: Consistently grouped well, with an average of 0.75 inches and a best group of 0.6 inches at 100 yards.
• Performance: Solid performance throughout its range, with a strong 1,480 ft-lbs at the muzzle.
• Reliability: Feeds and extracts reliably, making it suitable for both new and seasoned reloaders.
• Sensitivity and Muzzle Report: Pleasing recoil and report, making it ideal for target shooting or hunting in noise-sensitive areas.
• Variety of Loading Options: Ample opportunities for customization, including Hornady’s own branded bullets and other high-quality offerings.
Cons:
• Availability: As a relatively new cartridge, Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain ammunition might be harder to find, especially in older or less popular calibers.
• Limited Calibration Opportunities: While available for reloading, specific loading data may not be readily available for this cartridge, requiring some experimentation and trial-and-error approach.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain has impressed me with its accuracy, performance, and reliability. While there may be some minor trade-offs in terms of availability and calibration opportunities, the benefits of this cartridge far outweigh the drawbacks. If you’re in the market for a high-quality, versatile, and accurate cartridge, the Hornady 6mm ARC 108-grain is definitely worth considering.
