Choosing the right bullet for your hunting needs can feel overwhelming. Two popular choices among hunters are the Hornady SST (Super Shock Tip) and the Hornady InterLock. Both are renowned for their accuracy and effectiveness, but understanding their key differences is crucial for selecting the optimal bullet for your specific game and hunting style. This in-depth comparison will explore the Hornady SST vs. InterLock, examining their design, performance characteristics, and ideal applications.
Understanding Bullet Construction: SST vs. InterLock
The core difference between the Hornady SST and InterLock lies in their construction and how they perform upon impact.
Hornady SST: Designed for Expansion
The Hornady SST features a polymer tip that initiates expansion upon impact. This polymer tip also aids in ballistic coefficient, meaning it will fly further and with less drop in flight. This design is optimized for creating a large, devastating wound channel in lighter-weight game. The bullet jacket is relatively thin, facilitating rapid and consistent expansion at a wide range of velocities.
- Key Features of the SST:
- Polymer tip for rapid expansion
- Thin jacket for controlled expansion
- Excellent accuracy
- Suitable for lighter-weight game
Hornady InterLock: Built for Deep Penetration
The Hornady InterLock, on the other hand, utilizes a canneled ring around the base of the bullet. This ring is crimped and interlocks with the bullet jacket, preventing core separation during penetration. This is significant for heavier game, as it ensures deep penetration. While it still expands reliably, its primary focus is on maintaining bullet integrity for deeper penetration in thicker hides and bone.
- Key Features of the InterLock:
- Canneled ring for enhanced penetration
- Thicker jacket for better weight retention
- High weight retention means better energy transfer on larger game
- Suitable for heavier-weight game
Performance Comparison: A Look at Ballistics and Wound Channels
While both bullets offer excellent accuracy, their on-target performance varies considerably:
| Feature | Hornady SST | Hornady InterLock |
|---|---|---|
| Expansion | High, rapid expansion | Moderate expansion, good weight retention |
| Penetration | Moderate | High, maintains weight better |
| Game Type | Lighter game (deer, antelope, varmints) | Heavier game (elk, deer, larger animals) |
| Wound Channel | Larger, shallower wound channel | Smaller, deeper wound channel |
| Velocity | Often higher initial velocity for same bullet weight | Typically less velocity, maintaining energy at longer distances |
Case Study: Several independent ballistics tests show the SST generally expanding to a larger diameter than the InterLock at similar impact velocities. The InterLock, however, frequently penetrates deeper, retaining a higher percentage of its original weight. This distinction is crucial when considering the ethical harvest of game animals.
Choosing the Right Bullet: Matching the Bullet to the Hunt
Selecting between the SST and InterLock depends heavily on the type of game you'll be hunting:
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Hornady SST: Ideal for lighter-weight game such as deer, antelope, coyotes, and smaller varmints where rapid expansion and a large wound channel are prioritized. Its superior ballistic coefficient is also an advantage for longer shots.
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Hornady InterLock: A better choice for heavier game animals like elk, moose, and larger deer where deep penetration and high weight retention are crucial. The InterLock's superior penetration ensures a clean kill, even with thicker hides and bone.
Conclusion: The Verdict
There's no single "better" bullet; the best choice hinges entirely on the target animal and hunting situation. Understand the core differences in design and performance—the SST's rapid expansion versus the InterLock's deep penetration—and choose the bullet that aligns best with your specific hunting needs. Always prioritize ethical hunting practices and responsible game management. Thorough research and careful consideration will ensure a successful and ethical hunt.