Hornady 7mm 150gr ELD-X projectile

[Ahsan Ahmed]

Seeking impressions from folks who may have used the Hornady ELD-X 150gr bullet in 7mm-08 rifles - in terms of accuracy and terminal performance on game.

Recommended minimum twist is 1:10. I intend to acquire the projectile to handload for a 7mm-08 Vanguard (1:9.5 twist).

I have shot ELD-X factory loads 178gr [3006] and 200gr [300WM] in three different rifles. All were extremely accurate and yielded sub-MOA groups @ 100m. No experience though hunting with this bullet.

Thanks,

 

[pacobillie]

The ELD-X performs well on medium game. I have taken a WT buck last year with the 143 gr. ELD-X in my 6.5x55 rifle. Broadside shot in the vitals at 190 yrds. The buck was DRT. He never even took a step after the shot. I would not use an ELD-X for moose or elk.

 

[bearhunter]

Your rifle may or may not shoot those bullets well.

I have tried to get several Vanguard II type rifles to shoot well enough to suit my personal demands. None of them did the job, after several different loads, OALs and bullet types. So I don't have any in my safe. That by no means may be indicative of your rifle but now I tend to stay away from the type.

As for the 150grn ELDX, I have used it in my 7x57 chambered 98 Mauser sporter with excellent results right out to 300 yards which depending on the actual conditions at the time of shooting is more or less the longest range I feel confident to shoot ethically.

After 300yds, bullet drop is the biggest factor with these and heavier bullets IMHO.

These bullets hold together well enough on game animals that if properly placed, such as the chest cavity they will easily penetrate into the cavity and often exit the opposite side.

They do not do well on BONE. They handle ribs well but shoulder bones will often not break when hit with them.

If you are ethical with your shooting and competent, those bullets should do well for you.

 

[Ahsan Ahmed]

I haven't had an opportunity to shoot that so far. Acquired a couple boxes of factory ammo - Hornady PH 150gr ELD-X and Nosler Ballistic Tip 140gr - let's see how those perform in that rifle and then use the brass to work up some loads.