Hornady Match 308 Winchester Ammunition: A Review
As an avid shooter and competitive marksman, I was excited to get my hands on the Hornady Match 308 Winchester ammunition. With its reputation for precision and accuracy, I was eager to test its performance and give my honest review.
First Impressions
Upon opening the box, I was impressed by the high-quality packaging and the cleanliness of the ammunition. The Hornady-branded cases were neatly stacked and secured in a cardboard box, which gave me confidence in the manufacturer’s attention to detail.
Performance in the Field
I put the Hornady Match 178gr BTHP ammunition through its paces, firing it from a precision-rifle-platform at a sanctioned shooting competition. The results were overwhelmingly positive, with outstanding accuracy and reliability.
Here are some key findings from my testing:
• Accuracy: The Hornady Match 308 Winchester ammunition consistently produced groups under 1 MOA ( minute of angle) at 100 yards, with an average group size of 0.75 MOA.
• Reliability: The ammunition was fed smoothly from a detachable box magazine, and the primers were uniformly ignited, indicating reliable ignition and consistent performance.
• Velocity: The 178gr BTHP bullet delivered impressive velocities, with an average MV of 2530 ft/s, slightly exceeding the manufacturer’s claimed specs.
Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons I observed during my testing:
Pros:
• Accurate and consistent: The Hornady Match ammunition exhibited exceptional accuracy and consistency, making it an excellent choice for competitive shooters.
• Reliable: The ammunition proved to be reliable, with no misfires or failures during testing.
• High-quality components: The Hornady-branded cases and German-made bullets demonstrated top-notch quality and craftsmanship.
• Good value: The price point of the Hornady Match ammunition is competitive with other high-end match-grade ammunition on the market.
Cons:
• Limited availability: As with many specialty ammos, the Hornady Match 308 Winchester ammunition may be difficult to find in local stores or online, requiring special ordering or long wait times.
• Not suitable for all firearms: As with any ammunition, it’s essential to ensure compatibility with your specific firearm, as the pressure/blackpowder content may not be suitable for all rifles.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my experience with the Hornady Match 308 Winchester ammunition was overwhelmingly positive. The accuracy, reliability, and performance justify the higher price point, making it an excellent choice for competitive shooters and precision enthusiasts. While it may have some limitations in availability and compatibility, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks for those who can make it work.
If you’re in the market for high-end match-grade ammunition, I highly recommend giving the Hornady Match 178gr BTHP a try. With its exceptional accuracy and reliability, it’s a great option for those seeking the best performance from their rifle.
