Hornady's offering in the .308 Winchester match ammunition category comes in the form of their 178gr BTHP load. This cartridge is built around a heavy-for-caliber 178-grain Boat Tail Hollow Point bullet, which is designed to provide superior stability and resistance to wind drift. The ammunition is loaded in Hornady's facilities using premium components, including carefully selected brass cases and match-grade primers. With a reputation for consistency and accuracy, this load is frequently seen at long-range shooting competitions and is favored by many precision rifle shooters for its reliable performance. It's a solid choice for those seeking match-grade ammunition without stepping up to more specialized calibers.
Product Highlights:
| Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
| Model | Match |
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Bullet Weight | 178 grains |
| Bullet Type | Boat Tail Hollow Point (BTHP) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2600 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 2672 ft. lbs |
| Ballistic coefficient | .530 |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Case Material | Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer |
| Reloadable | Yes |
Key Features:
The Hornady Match 308 Winchester 178 Grain BTHP Ammunition offers impressive performance characteristics that make it an excellent choice for self-defense and hunting applications. Here's a breakdown of its key features:
| Bullet Weight | 178 grains Heavy-for-caliber bullet weight for excellent long-range performance |
| Bullet Type | Boat Tail Hollow Point (BTHP) Designed for maximum accuracy and consistent long-range performance |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2600 fps High velocity for flat trajectory and increased energy transfer |
| Muzzle Energy | 2672 ft. lbs Substantial energy for excellent terminal performance |
| Case Material | Brass Reloadable brass cases for cost-effective practice and competition |
Applications & Use Cases:
- Long-Range Target Shooting: Ideal for precision long-range shooting competitions and practice due to its consistent accuracy and performance.
- Hunting: Suitable for medium to large game hunting, offering excellent accuracy and terminal performance at extended ranges.
- Tactical Applications: Used by law enforcement and military personnel for precision shooting in tactical scenarios.
- Benchrest Shooting: Preferred by benchrest shooters for its consistency and ability to produce tight groups at long distances.
- Load Development: Serves as a high-quality factory load benchmark for handloaders developing their own precision loads.
Pros and Cons:
Pros
- ✔ Match-Grade Accuracy: Custom-grade ammunition loaded to stringent specifications for consistent, match-winning accuracy.
- ✔ High Ballistic Coefficient: 178 grain BTHP (Boat Tail Hollow Point) bullet offers excellent long-range performance and wind resistance.
- ✔ Impressive Muzzle Velocity: 2600 fps muzzle velocity provides flat trajectory and high energy retention downrange.
- ✔ Reloadable Brass Cases: High-quality, reloadable brass cases for cost-effective practice and competition use.
- ✔ Versatile Application: Suitable for precision target shooting, long-range hunting, and tactical applications.
Cons
- ✘ Premium Price: Match-grade ammunition typically comes at a higher cost compared to standard loads.
- ✘ Overpowered for Some Uses: May be excessive for shorter range target practice or smaller game hunting.
- ✘ Recoil: The high velocity and heavy bullet weight can result in significant felt recoil, especially in lighter rifles.
- ✘ Availability: Premium match-grade ammunition may have limited availability during high-demand periods.
About Hornady:
Hornady Manufacturing Company, founded in 1949 by Joyce Hornady, has become a leader in the ammunition industry. Headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska, Hornady is known for its innovative approach to bullet and ammunition design. The company's commitment to quality and performance has made it a favorite among hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement professionals. Hornady's product line includes a wide range of ammunition, reloading tools, and accessories. Their Match series, which includes the .308 Winchester 178 grain BTHP load, is renowned for its exceptional accuracy and consistency. The company's dedication to research and development has led to numerous patented designs, including the AMP® (Advanced Manufacturing Process) bullet jackets, which contribute to improved accuracy and terminal performance.
