Hornady's 168 grain ELD Match bullet has rapidly become a favorite among precision rifle shooters. Its exceptional accuracy, long-range capabilities, and consistent performance make it a top choice for target shooting, hunting, and competitive events. This in-depth guide explores the bullet's design, ballistics, applications, and overall effectiveness. We’ll cover everything you need to know to determine if the Hornady 168 ELD Match is the right bullet for your needs.
Understanding the ELD Match Technology
The secret to the 168 ELD Match's success lies in its revolutionary design. ELD stands for Extremely Low Drag, a key feature achieved through Hornady's innovative Heat Shield Tip™ and boat tail design.
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Heat Shield Tip™: This polymer tip reduces drag and improves ballistic coefficient (BC). The reduced drag means the bullet retains more velocity over longer distances, resulting in flatter trajectories and better accuracy at extended ranges. This is crucial for precision shooting where even small deviations can significantly impact point of impact.
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Boat Tail Design: The boat tail base further minimizes drag by streamlining the bullet's rear profile. This design element works synergistically with the Heat Shield Tip, creating a bullet with exceptional aerodynamic stability. The improved stability translates to tighter groups and more predictable bullet flight.
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Secant Ogivie Design: The 168 ELD Match features a secant ogive, creating a carefully balanced shape for superior aerodynamic efficiency. This design minimizes air resistance, contributing to the high BC and long-range accuracy.
Ballistic Coefficient and Performance
The Hornady 168 ELD Match boasts a high ballistic coefficient (BC) of approximately 0.520 G1. This high BC is a major factor contributing to its superior accuracy at long range. What does this actually mean for the shooter?
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Flatter Trajectory: A higher BC means less bullet drop over distance, simplifying range estimation and holdovers, particularly at longer ranges. This makes it easier for shooters to make accurate shots at targets beyond 600 yards.
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Reduced Wind Drift: The reduced drag also translates to less wind drift. This is particularly important in windy conditions, allowing for more consistent accuracy.
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Improved Energy Retention: Even at extended distances, the 168 ELD Match retains more energy than many comparable bullets, making it effective for hunting applications.
Table 1: Ballistic Data (Example - Conditions will vary)
| Distance (yards) | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) | Drop (inches) | Wind Drift (inches - 10 mph crosswind) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 | 2700 | 2200 | 1 | 2 |
| 300 | 2300 | 1600 | 10 | 8 |
| 600 | 1800 | 1000 | 40 | 20 |
| 1000 | 1300 | 600 | 120 | 45 |
(Note: These values are approximate and can vary depending on factors like barrel twist rate, ammunition load, altitude, and atmospheric conditions. Always consult your specific ballistic data for accurate calculations.)
Applications of the Hornady 168 ELD Match
The versatility of the Hornady 168 ELD Match makes it suitable for a wide range of applications.
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Long-Range Target Shooting: Its exceptional accuracy and predictable trajectory make it ideal for long-range target competitions and practice.
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Hunting: The bullet's retained energy at longer ranges makes it effective for hunting larger game, such as deer, elk, or antelope.
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Precision Rifle Competitions: Many competitive shooters rely on the 168 ELD Match for its consistent performance and accuracy under pressure.
Case Study: Competitive Results
Numerous competitive shooters have achieved top results using the Hornady 168 ELD Match. While specific data is often proprietary to individual shooters, anecdotal evidence and forum discussions frequently showcase the bullet's consistency in producing tight groups at extreme ranges. This consistent performance contributes directly to competitive success.
Choosing the Right Load
The 168 ELD Match can be loaded into various cartridges, including the popular .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor. It's crucial to use a load that's appropriate for your specific firearm and intended use. Always consult Hornady's reloading data or other reputable sources for safe and effective load data. Improper loading can lead to dangerous situations.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Hornady 168 ELD Match is widely regarded as a high-performing bullet, it's essential to acknowledge potential limitations:
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Cost: ELD Match bullets tend to be more expensive than standard bullets due to their sophisticated design and manufacturing processes.
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Fragility: The polymer tip can be more susceptible to damage than bullets with a full metal jacket. Careful handling is recommended.
Conclusion: The Hornady 168 ELD Match – A Top Contender
The Hornady 168 ELD Match bullet represents a significant advancement in precision rifle ammunition. Its exceptional accuracy, high ballistic coefficient, and versatile applications have made it a favorite among shooters of all levels. While the cost is a factor, the performance often justifies the investment, particularly for those seeking top-tier accuracy and long-range capabilities. However, responsible handling and adherence to safe reloading practices are essential when using this bullet.