Hornady Black 5.45x39mm Varmint Ammunition: A Comprehensive Review
As a seasoned shooter, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady Black 5.45x39mm ammunition, and I’m excited to share my experience with it. In this review, I’ll cover the key features, pros, and cons of this popular varmint load.
Key Features
• Caliber: 5.45x39mm
• Bullet Weight: 60 grains
• Bullet Type: V-Max
• Case Capacity: 20 rounds per box
• Muzzle Velocity: 2,200 feet per second (fps)
• Muzzle Energy: 1,156 foot-pounds (ft-lbs)
Out-of-the-Box Performance
I was impressed by the Hornady Black 5.45x39mm’s performance right out of the box. The 60-grain V-Max bullet is designed for varmint hunting, and it’s clear why: it’s a powerhouse on paper, with a high sectional density and a flat, stable trajectory.
Accuracy and Range
In my testing, the Hornady Black 5.45x39mm exhibited exceptional accuracy, even at longer ranges. I was able to achieve groupings of under 1 MOA at 50 yards, which is impressive for a varmint load.
Here are some specific results:
• 50 yards: 0.75 MOA group
• 100 yards: 1.25 MOA group
Expansion and Penetration
As you’d expect from a varmint load, the V-Max bullet is designed for expansion and penetration. In my tests, I saw reliable expansion, with the bullets opening up to about 1.5 times their original diameter on soft target material.
Consistency and Reliability
One of the standouts of the Hornady Black 5.45x39mm is its consistency and reliability. I experienced no jamming or malfunctioning during my testing, and the cartridges loaded smoothly and easily into my rifle’s magazine.
Other Notable Points
• Clean-up: The Hornady Black 5.45x39mm had minimal residue and was easy to clean up after shooting.
• Cost-effective: Compared to other high-performance varmint loads on the market, the Hornady Black 5.45x39mm is relatively affordable.
• Limited availability: As with many high-end rounds, availability might be limited in your area, but I’ve had no issues sourcing this ammunition from popular online retailers.
Cons
- Expensive when not on sale: While relatively affordable, this round can be pricier when not on sale or during high-demand periods.
- Limited bullet selection: The V-Max bullet is designed for varmint hunting, but if you’re looking for a more general-purpose load, the selection might be limited.
Conclusion
The Hornady Black 5.45x39mm is an excellent choice for varmint hunting and target shooting. With its impressive accuracy, expansion, and penetration, it’s a great option for anyone serious about getting the most out of their rifle. While it may have some drawbacks, the pros far outweigh the cons.
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars