6.5 Grendel - 120gr Speer Gold Dot

Published on December 19, 2018
Duration: 23:09

This video provides a detailed analysis of the 120gr Speer Gold Dot bullet for the 6.5 Grendel cartridge. The instructor, Johnny, conducts extensive load development using Power Pro 2000-MR and AR-Comp powders, presenting chronograph data, group sizes, and ballistic gel performance. He concludes that while velocities with Power Pro 2000-MR were lower than expected, the AR-Comp loads offered surprisingly good velocity and accuracy, making the 120gr Gold Dot a promising option for deer hunting.

Quick Summary

The 120gr Speer Gold Dot is a strong candidate for 6.5 Grendel deer hunting. Load development with Power Pro 2000-MR yielded velocities up to 2380 ft/s, while AR-Comp offered comparable accuracy and velocities closer to published data. Ballistic gel tests showed expansion, though less dramatic than other Gold Dot variants, suggesting higher velocity could improve performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 120gr Speer Gold Dot for 6.5 Grendel
  2. 00:53Powder Selection: Power Pro 2000-MR & AR-Comp
  3. 02:04Load Data & Starting Charges
  4. 02:09Brass & Primers: Hornady Brass, CCI 450 Primers
  5. 02:29Overall Length & Magazine Fit (2.28")
  6. 03:11Bullet Seating Process
  7. 04:00Bullet Comparator & OAL Monitoring
  8. 04:28Bullet Quantity Issue & Gel Shot Plan
  9. 05:25Range Setup: 18" Faxon Barrel, Suppressor, Chronograph
  10. 05:52Magazine Testing: 6.8 SPC Magazine
  11. 06:36Power Pro 2000-MR: 29.8gr Load Test
  12. 07:29Power Pro 2000-MR: 30.2gr Load Test
  13. 08:05Power Pro 2000-MR: 30.6gr Load Test (4-shot group)
  14. 09:15Power Pro 2000-MR Velocity Concerns
  15. 10:15Power Pro 2000-MR: 31.4gr Max Load Test
  16. 11:07AR-Comp: 23.7gr Load Test
  17. 12:00AR-Comp: 24.1gr Load Test
  18. 12:33AR-Comp: 24.5gr Load Test
  19. 13:10AR-Comp Accuracy Improvement
  20. 13:38AR-Comp: 24.9gr Load Test
  21. 14:15AR-Comp: 25.3gr Max Load Test
  22. 14:48Powder Comparison & Velocity Discussion
  23. 15:08Ballistic Gel Testing Results
  24. 16:17Bullet Expansion Analysis
  25. 17:39Overall Assessment: Best Option for Deer Hunting
  26. 17:59Brass & Pressure Signs Review
  27. 18:53Group Size Analysis & Velocity Bafflement
  28. 20:15AR-Comp Performance vs. Power Pro 2000-MR
  29. 21:00Future Load Development & Powder Choices
  30. 21:56Summary of Speer Gold Dot Bullet Performance
  31. 22:49Upcoming Videos: 107gr Sierra Match King

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended powders for the 120gr Speer Gold Dot in 6.5 Grendel?

Speer recommends Power Pro 2000-MR for the highest velocity with the 120gr Gold Dot in 6.5 Grendel. The instructor also tested AR-Comp, finding it provided surprisingly good velocity and accuracy, and plans to explore CFE223, LeverEvolution, Accurate 2520, Shooters World Match Rifle, and Vihtavuori N540.

How did the 120gr Speer Gold Dot perform in ballistic gel testing for the 6.5 Grendel?

The 120gr Speer Gold Dot showed expansion in ballistic gel, but it was less dramatic than heavier Gold Dot bullets in other calibers. Some unexpanded bullet material was observed, suggesting that higher velocities might improve expansion.

What were the velocity results for the 120gr Speer Gold Dot in 6.5 Grendel with an 18-inch barrel?

Using an 18-inch barrel, the maximum velocity achieved with Power Pro 2000-MR was approximately 2380 ft/s. With AR-Comp, the maximum velocity reached was around 2320 ft/s, which was closer to published data for longer barrels.

Is the 120gr Speer Gold Dot a good bullet for deer hunting in 6.5 Grendel?

Yes, the instructor considers the 120gr Speer Gold Dot a promising option for deer hunting in the 6.5 Grendel. Despite slightly less dramatic expansion than expected, its performance in previous tests and its potential for accuracy make it a strong contender.

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