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Hornady Precision Hunter .280 Ackley Improved 162 gr ELD-X

UPC: 090255855869

$51.99

304 in stock

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Description

Hornady pairs the 162 grain ELD-X projectile with clean-burning propellants loaded to uniform capacity in the Precision Hunter line. This combination delivers match-grade consistency shot after shot, regardless of temperature swings in the field. You get the ballistic performance of a handload without the time spent at a reloading bench.

The ELD-X Design That Sets This Apart

The Heat Shield polymer tip isn't marketing fluff—it solves a real problem that plagues conventional polymer-tipped bullets at distance. Hornady discovered through Doppler radar testing that standard polymer tips actually melt and deform in flight due to aerodynamic heating, degrading ballistic coefficient and throwing off trajectory calculations beyond 400 yards. The Heat Shield maintains its shape throughout the entire flight path to preserve the .630 G1 ballistic coefficient, keeping your drops and wind holds predictable at any distance.

Terminal Performance Built for the Hunt

This bullet delivers controlled expansion across all practical hunting velocities. At close range with high impact velocity, the ELD-X expands continuously throughout its penetration path. At extended ranges beyond 400 yards where velocity drops, the Heat Shield tip drives backward into the nose cavity to initiate expansion, resulting in a large mushroom with 85-90 percent weight retention. That combination of penetration and controlled expansion means you get both the energy transfer you need and the deep wound channels that anchor game.

Why the .280 Ackley Improved

This cartridge sits in the sweet spot for Western hunting. It handles a wide range of bullet weights efficiently with modest recoil that's easily manageable for follow-up shots when they matter. The 162 grain bullet with its high sectional density of .287 drives through medium to large game without the overkill recoil of a magnum, while the elevated powder capacity compared to the standard .280 Remington gives you velocity and trajectory advantages.

Key Specifications

  • Caliber: .280 Ackley Improved
  • Bullet Weight: 162 grains
  • Bullet Type: ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag eXpanding)
  • Muzzle Velocity: 2850 fps
  • Muzzle Energy: 2921 ft-lbs
  • Ballistic Coefficient: 0.630 (G1) / 0.315 (G7)
  • Sectional Density: 0.287
  • Rounds Per Box: 20
  • Case Material: Brass
  • Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing
  • Model Number: 85586
  • UPC: 090255855869

What’s Included

  • 20 rounds of factory-loaded ammunition
  • Brass casings
  • Boxer primers

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Heat Shield tip different from regular polymer tips?

The Heat Shield is a heat-resistant polymer engineered to withstand aerodynamic heating and maintain its shape throughout flight. Regular polymer tips can deform and melt in flight, degrading ballistic coefficient especially beyond 400 yards. This tip stays consistent to preserve predictable long-range performance.

Is the Precision Hunter .280 Ackley suitable for reloading?

Yes, the cases are reloadable brass with Boxer primers. Once you shoot these loads, you have quality brass suitable for handloading with your preferred components. Many reloaders buy factory Precision Hunter ammo specifically for the quality brass.

What game is this ammunition best suited for?

The 162 grain ELD-X is engineered for medium to large game hunting. Its high sectional density and controlled expansion make it effective from close range to extended distances, working well on everything from mule deer and elk to larger species when shot in vital areas.

Will temperature affect the consistency of these loads?

Hornady specifically designed the Precision Hunter line with temperature-stable propellants loaded to uniform capacity to minimize velocity and pressure variations across temperature extremes. You get consistent performance whether you're hunting cold mornings or hot afternoons.

Additional information

Bullet Weight (Grains)

162

Caliber/Gauge

.280 Ackley Improved

Case Material

Brass

Cost per Round

2.60

Grains

162Gr

Length

5.2500

Manufacturer

Manufacturer Part Number

85586

Model

Product Type

ELD-X

Shipping Weight

1.235

Units per Box

20

UPC

090255855869

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