Ep. 225 - The SCIENCE of Copper Bullets

This video introduces Hornady's 2026 product lineup, focusing on new bullet offerings. Key introductions include expanded CX line calibers (22, 25, 338) optimized for modern cartridges and twist rates, the ELD VT for varmint hunting, and new component availability for ELDX and SubX bullets. The video also highlights the expansion of Aromax bullets into smaller count packaging and the availability of the Backcountry Defense handgun bullet as a component.

This video emphasizes the critical value of a 'known quantity' accurate rifle setup for effective shooter assessment. By using a consistently performing rifle, shooters can reliably determine if their performance is due to their own skill or equipment issues. The speaker shares a personal anecdote about contaminated ammunition affecting group consistency, highlighting the importance of understanding all variables in a shooting system.

This video demonstrates the process of zeroing a rifle optic, emphasizing the importance of using ballistic data from a rangefinder for accurate long-range shooting. The presenter highlights the benefits of specific optic turrets for fine adjustments and the integration of a ballistic rangefinder for immediate solutions. The guide covers initial zeroing, data input, and making adjustments for distance and wind.

This video details the testing of a new 56.4-grain monolithic bullet for the 30 Super Carry cartridge. The instructor, working with High Point Firearms and Velocitas Bullets, explores load data using HS6 powder, achieving velocities over 1700 feet per second from a 3.1-inch barrel. A gel test demonstrates the bullet's terminal performance, showing pedal separation and significant penetration.

Hornady Manufacturing introduces several new ammunition lines and calibers for 2026, focusing on expanding hunting and precision shooting options. Key introductions include the American Whitetail Tipped line featuring SST bullets, expanded 22 Creedmoor offerings with CX and ELD-VT bullets, new 25 Creedmoor ammunition, and additions to the 338 AR-C, 300 PRC, 6.5 PRC, 224 Valkyrie, 400 Legend, 6mm ARC, and Frontier lines. The company highlights advancements in bullet technology, terminal performance, and accuracy across these new products.

The 22 Creedmoor cartridge, developed by Hornady, offers a compelling combination of speed, flat trajectory, and low recoil, making it highly effective for various shooting applications. It excels in maximizing aerodynamic performance with modern bullets, delivering minimal wind deflection and exceptional long-range capabilities. The cartridge is presented as a superior alternative to established .22 caliber rounds like the .22-250, .220 Swift, and .222 Remington.

The 22 Creedmoor cartridge, developed by Hornady, offers a compelling blend of speed, flat trajectory, and low recoil, making it highly effective for various shooting applications. It excels in maximizing aerodynamic performance with modern bullets, providing superior long-range capabilities compared to similar cartridges like the .22-250 or .220 Swift. Hornady offers the 22 Creedmoor in several ammunition lines, including V-Match, Precision Hunter, Match, and Superformance, with specific bullet weights and types tailored for different uses, from varmint and predator hunting to small and medium game.

This episode of the Hornady podcast delves into the history and performance of iconic rifle cartridges, focusing on the .308 Winchester family and its derivatives. The discussion highlights the versatility and enduring legacy of cartridges like the .308, .243 Winchester, and .358 Winchester, exploring their development, ballistic characteristics, and suitability for various hunting and shooting applications. The hosts, including firearms experts, provide insights into their personal experiences and the technical aspects that make these cartridges relevant today.