6.5 Creedmoor Ballistic Gel Tests - 143gr ELD-X, 140 SST, 130 SGK, 129 ABLR

Published on February 5, 2018
Duration: 21:06

This comprehensive guide details a ballistic gel test for 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition, featuring expert insights from Johnny's Reloading Bench. The test systematically evaluates the terminal performance of various bullet types (143gr ELD-X, 140gr SST, 130gr SGK, 129gr ABLR) at a realistic hunting distance of 200 yards. It covers preparation, execution, and analysis of bullet expansion, penetration, and weight retention, providing valuable data for hunters and handloaders.

Quick Summary

Expert ballistic gel tests of 6.5 Creedmoor ammunition at 200 yards reveal distinct performance differences. The Nosler 129gr AccuBond LR showed superior weight retention (91.5-109gr) and expansion. Hornady's 143gr ELD-X and 140gr SST offered balanced performance, while the Sierra 130gr Game King fragmented significantly.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Bullet Expansion Philosophies
  2. 02:48143gr Hornady ELD-X Load Data
  3. 03:09140gr Hornady SST Load Data
  4. 04:17130gr Sierra Game King Load Data
  5. 04:38129gr Nosler AccuBond LR Load Data
  6. 05:09Range Setup and Methodology
  7. 06:35Gel Test Results
  8. 12:06Recovered Bullet Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key differences in terminal ballistics between the 143gr Hornady ELD-X and the 130gr Sierra Game King in 6.5 Creedmoor?

The 143gr Hornady ELD-X demonstrated excellent mushrooming and deep penetration, retaining 111-112 grains of weight. In contrast, the 130gr Sierra Game King HPBT fragmented significantly, losing large portions of its structure, indicating a design prioritizing rapid energy release over deep penetration.

How did the Nosler 129gr AccuBond LR perform in ballistic gel tests compared to other 6.5 Creedmoor bullets?

The Nosler 129gr AccuBond LR excelled in weight retention, holding 91.5-109 grains, and showed dramatic expansion with consistent jacket-core bonding. This performance suggests superior deep penetration capabilities, making it a strong choice for larger game.

What is the recommended methodology for testing bullet terminal performance at realistic hunting distances?

Testing should be conducted at realistic hunting distances, such as 200 yards, using ballistic gel to simulate tissue. Documenting bullet paths, penetration depth, expansion, and recovered weight provides critical data on terminal ballistics.

Which 6.5 Creedmoor bullet types are best for deep penetration based on ballistic gel tests?

Based on the tests, the Nosler 129gr AccuBond LR demonstrated the best weight retention and expansion for deep penetration. The Hornady 143gr ELD-X and 140gr SST also offered good penetration and expansion suitable for many hunting applications.

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