Remington's Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded ammunition in .308 Winchester is a popular choice among hunters and target shooters. This article provides an in-depth look at its features, performance characteristics, and best applications, helping you determine if it's the right round for your needs. We will explore the Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded's unique design, ballistics, and suitability for various hunting scenarios.
Understanding the Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded Design
The Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308 bullet is renowned for its controlled expansion and deep penetration. This is achieved through its unique construction:
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Bonded Core: The bullet features a lead core bonded to its jacketed exterior. This bonding process prevents core-to-jacket separation upon impact, ensuring consistent expansion and weight retention even at higher velocities. This is crucial for maintaining energy transfer and maximizing lethality on game.
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Controlled Expansion: The Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded is designed for controlled expansion, meaning it won't mushroom excessively or fragment upon impact. This controlled expansion maximizes penetration while still delivering significant shock and stopping power. This controlled expansion is a key differentiator from other hunting rounds.
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Jacketed Bullet: The copper jacket protects the lead core and helps to ensure consistent accuracy and reduce fouling in the barrel. The jacket also aids in the controlled expansion process.
Ballistics and Performance Data
The exact ballistic performance of the Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308 will vary based on the specific bullet weight and barrel length of the rifle used. However, some general characteristics can be expected:
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) (approx.) | Energy (ft-lbs) (approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 | 2700 | 2800 |
| 165 | 2600 | 2950 |
| 180 | 2500 | 3000 |
Note: These are approximate values and can vary depending on several factors. Consult the specific ammunition box for accurate data.
Case Study: Deer Hunting with the 180 Grain Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded
A recent hunting trip using a Remington 700 in .308 Winchester chambered with 180-grain Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded rounds resulted in a clean, one-shot kill on a whitetail deer at approximately 150 yards. The bullet exhibited excellent penetration, exiting the deer cleanly while creating significant internal damage. The deer dropped quickly with minimal tracking required. This demonstrates the effectiveness of the round in delivering quick, humane kills.
Best Applications for the Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308
The Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308 is versatile, but it excels in several specific applications:
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Medium to Large Game Hunting: Its controlled expansion and deep penetration make it ideal for deer, elk, and other medium to large game animals. Its performance is consistent and reliable across various shot ranges.
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Self-Defense (with caveats): While not specifically designed for self-defense, the .308 cartridge itself provides potent stopping power. However, overpenetration is a major consideration in self-defense scenarios, necessitating extreme caution and responsible use. Situational awareness and understanding of potential collateral damage are crucial.
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Target Shooting: The Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded provides respectable accuracy and consistency on the range, suitable for practicing shooting skills. However, many target shooters may opt for a less expensive round for practice purposes.
Considerations and Alternatives
While the Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded is a solid performer, it's important to consider some points:
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Cost: Compared to some other .308 ammunition options, the Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded tends to be priced at the higher end of the spectrum.
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Availability: While generally available, availability can sometimes fluctuate based on demand and supplier issues.
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Alternatives: Hunters might consider other high-performing .308 rounds like Federal Fusion, Nosler Partition, or Hornady SST, depending on their specific hunting needs and budget.
Conclusion: Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308 - A Reliable Performer
The Remington Core-Lokt Ultra Bonded .308 Winchester cartridge provides a reliable and consistent performance for various applications. Its bonded core, controlled expansion, and deep penetration make it an excellent choice for medium to large game hunting. While its cost may be a consideration, its effectiveness and dependability make it a worthwhile option for serious hunters and shooters seeking a powerful, reliable round. Remember always to practice safe gun handling and follow all relevant regulations when handling firearms and ammunition.