The 6.5 Creedmoor has rapidly become a favorite among long-range precision shooters, and the Hornady 140 ELD Match bullet is a significant reason why. This bullet's exceptional ballistic coefficient translates to impressive downrange accuracy and energy retention. However, achieving optimal performance requires meticulous load development. This guide delves into the crucial aspects of loading the Hornady 140 ELD Match in your 6.5 Creedmoor, providing insights to help you achieve the best possible results. Remember: Always consult your firearm's owner's manual and Hornady's published load data before attempting any reloading. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for safe reloading practices.
Understanding the 140 ELD Match Bullet
The Hornady 140 ELD Match bullet is designed for long-range accuracy. Its highly aerodynamic profile, achieved through the ELD (Extremely Low Drag) design, minimizes wind drift and maintains velocity over extended distances. This makes it an ideal choice for competitive shooting, hunting, and long-range target practice. The ELD-M's secant ogive and boat-tail design significantly contribute to its exceptional ballistic performance.
Key Factors in Load Development
Several factors significantly influence the accuracy and performance of your 6.5 Creedmoor loads with the 140 ELD Match:
1. Powder Selection
Choosing the right powder is critical. Popular choices among experienced reloaders for this bullet weight include:
- Hodgdon H4350: A well-established powder known for its consistency and excellent results in the 6.5 Creedmoor.
- Reloder 16: Another reliable option offering good accuracy and velocity.
- IMR 4451: Provides slightly lower pressure than H4350, making it a good option for older rifles or those with tighter chambers.
- Varget: A versatile powder suitable for various bullet weights and applications.
Each powder will behave differently in your specific rifle, so experimentation is key to finding the optimal charge weight.
2. Primer Selection
Primer selection plays a less dramatic role than powder, but consistency is crucial. Use a standard large rifle magnum primer for reliable ignition. Experimenting with different primer brands might yield minor improvements in accuracy for your specific setup.
3. Case Preparation
Consistent case preparation is paramount for accurate reloading. This includes:
- Sizing: Use a sizing die appropriate for your brass.
- Trimming: Ensure all cases are trimmed to the same length.
- Deburring: Remove any burrs from the case mouths and flash holes.
- Cleaning: Clean cases thoroughly to remove any residue from previous firings.
Consistent case preparation significantly reduces variations that can impact accuracy.
4. Seating Depth
The bullet's seating depth significantly influences accuracy and pressure. Start with the Hornady recommended starting load and make small adjustments (0.010" at a time) while carefully monitoring pressure signs. Accurate seating depth will be rifle specific and may need to be fine-tuned.
5. OAL (Overall Length)
Overall length (OAL) should be checked to ensure proper cartridge fit in your magazine and chamber. Excessive OAL can lead to feeding issues. Always check the cartridge's OAL before loading a magazine to avoid damaging your rifle.
Safety Precautions: The Most Important Aspect
Safety should always be your top priority when reloading ammunition. Never exceed the maximum recommended charge weight listed in Hornady's published load data. Always wear safety glasses and gloves, and work in a well-ventilated area. Proper reloading techniques are essential for both accuracy and safety.
Finding Your Optimal Load: A Step-by-Step Process
- Start with Hornady's Data: Begin with the recommended starting loads from Hornady's published data for the 140 ELD Match.
- Incremental Increases: Increase the powder charge incrementally (typically 0.1 grains at a time).
- Careful Observation: Watch for any signs of excessive pressure, such as flattened primers, excessive case expansion, or unusually loud reports.
- Chronograph Data: Use a chronograph to measure velocity and identify the most consistent loads.
- Accuracy Testing: Test each load at a known distance with your chosen rifle and scope, identifying the load offering the best accuracy.
- Record Keeping: Maintain detailed records of your load development, including powder type, charge weight, primer type, seating depth, OAL, and velocity.
By following these steps meticulously and prioritizing safety, you can develop a highly accurate load for your 6.5 Creedmoor rifle using the Hornady 140 ELD Match bullet. Remember, consistent, safe practices are key to successful and enjoyable reloading.
