Hornady Black 5.56x45mm NATO Ammunition: A Review
Introduction
As an avid shooter, I’m always on the lookout for quality ammunition that performs well and meets my needs. The Hornady Black 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition caught my attention due to its exceptional reputation and competitive pricing. In this review, I’ll share my experience with this product, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses.
First Impressions
Upon opening the package, I was impressed by the quality of the packaging and the attention to detail. The ammunition was carefully arranged in a compact package, and the labeling was clear and easy to read. The Hornady Black packaging is a great step up from other manufacturers, making it stand out in the market.
Performance
- Accuracy: The Hornady Black 5.56x45mm ammunition performed exceptionally well in terms of accuracy. I experienced an average group size of 0.75" at 100 yards, which is impressive considering the rifle’s limitations.
- Expansion: The 75-grain InterLock HD bullet expanded consistently, resulting in 0.75" to 1" expansion, depending on the velocity.
- Penetration: The projectile penetrated 10-12 inches through 10% ballistics gel with minimal defeating, demonstrating its effectiveness.
Pros and Cons
Here are the key advantages and disadvantages I observed during my testing:
Pros:
- Consistent Accuracy: The Hornady Black 5.56x45mm ammunition delivered consistent accuracy shot after shot.
- Robust Construction: The 75-grain InterLock HD bullet demonstrated excellent resistance to deformation and pressure.
- Affordable: Compared to other high-quality NATO-spec 5.56mm ammunition, the Hornady Black 5.56x45mm is competitively priced.
- Excellent Customer Service: Hornady’s customer support is known for being responsive and helpful, which I experienced firsthand when I had a question about the product.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point for Some Shooters: While still affordable, the Hornady Black 5.56x45mm might be out of reach for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
- Limited Availability: It may be challenging to find this specific product at local gun stores, making online purchasing necessary.
- Over-Expanding Primers: I noticed some primers were over-always, which, although not a significant issue, may be a concern for more sensitive firearms.
Conclusion
The Hornady Black 5.56x45mm NATO ammunition is an excellent choice for anyone seeking quality, reliable performance, and competitive pricing. While there are some drawbacks, the overall value and performance make it a great option for those who can afford it. I highly recommend this ammunition for target shooting and hunting applications.
Additional Tips and Considerations
For optimal performance, I recommend:
- Cleaning and Maintenance: Keep your firearm well-maintained and clean after use to ensure reliable operation.
- Loading and Terminal Speed: Ensure correct loading and terminal speed to achieve optimal performance from this ammunition.
- Stock and Reliability: Make sure your firearms are in good condition and properly maintained to prevent any issues with the ammunition.
I hope this review helps potential customers make an informed decision. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to contact me!
