Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC Ammo Review
As an avid shooter and outdoorsman, I was thrilled to get my hands on the Hornady Precision Hunter 143gr Extremely Low Drag (ELD) ammunition. With its impressive specs and promises of exceptional performance, I was eager to put it through its paces and see what it would bring to the table. Here’s my review of this cutting-edge ammunition.
Product Details
The Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC ammunition is designed specifically for the 6.5 Precision Rifle Cartridge (6.5 PRC) caliber. This cartridge was created by Hornady in partnership with Mack Brothers Rifle Works, with the goal of creating a cartridge that would offer a balance of flat shooting, long-range performance, and manageable recoil. The 143gr ELD bullet used in this specific load is designed to provide an extremely low drag coefficient, maximizing its penetration and expansion.
Out of the Box Experience
Upon opening the packaging, I was impressed with the quality of the ammunition. The 20-round boxes are neatly organized and protected by a cardboard insert, keeping the rounds secure and free from damage. I appreciate the attention to detail, which is characteristic of Hornady’s commitment to quality.
Range Performance
I put the Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC through its paces at the range, testing its accuracy, velocity, and overall performance.
Accuracy:
- Average Group Size: 0.6 MOA
- Best Group: 0.4 MOA
The Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC ammunition showed exceptional accuracy, delivering impressive group sizes and impressive single-hole performance. This ammunition is clearly designed for precision and is well-suited for long-range shooting.
Muzzle Velocity: 2,700 ft/s
The 6.5 PRC cartridge is known for its exceptional velocity, and the Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC ammunition did not disappoint. The 2,700 ft/s muzzle velocity is impressive, indicating a cartridge that is built for speed and performance.
Expansion and Penetration:
The Hornady 143gr ELD bullet is designed to provide an extremely low drag coefficient, maximizing its penetration and expansion. As expected, the bullets expanded predictably and consistently, throwing heavy, uniform expansion on impact. I witnessed impressive penetration, with most bullets delivering over 1.5 inches of expansion and consistently displaying a ”)
Cons
- Expensive: With a MSRP of $0.50 per round, this ammunition is not for everyone. For many shooters, the cost is an obstacle that may limit their ability to afford this top-tier ammunition.
- Limited Availability: As a relatively new cartridge, the 6.5 PRC is not as widely accepted or stocked as other calibers. This may make it more difficult to find in local gun shops or online retailers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC ammunition is a high-quality product designed for precision and performance. Its exceptional accuracy, impressive velocity, and predictable expansion make it an excellent choice for long-range shooters and hunters. While the cost and availability may be a concern for some, I believe that this ammunition is well worth the investment for those who can afford it.
Recommendation
If you’re a serious shooter or hunter looking for a high-performance cartridge, the Hornady Precision Hunter 6.5 PRC ammunition is certainly worth considering. Its exceptional accuracy, velocity, and expansion capabilities make it an excellent choice for those pushing the limits of their equipment and skill. Just be prepared for a steeper price tag and potential availability limitations.