Description
Hornady Superformance ammunition pairs their progressive propellant technology with CX copper-alloy expanding bullets to deliver serious performance gains. You get velocities up to 200 fps faster than standard loads while staying safely within SAAMI pressure limits, and without the typical tradeoffs of increased recoil or muzzle blast that come with hotter ammunition. The CX bullet is a one-piece solid copper alloy that won't separate on impact, maintaining approximately 95% of its original weight while expanding uniformly for deep, reliable penetration.
Velocity and Accuracy Benefits
The 165-grain load in .30-06 Springfield achieves a muzzle velocity of 2940 fps, producing flatter trajectories and less wind drift than conventional ammunition. This velocity boost translates to better energy delivery downrange and improved performance on longer shots without requiring a faster firearm action or dealing with excessive recoil. The progressive propellants used in Superformance loads burn more completely, which also means cleaner operation and less fouling compared to standard powders.
Cold to Hot Consistency
One major advantage of Superformance ammunition is its temperature stability. Testing from minus 20 degrees to plus 140 degrees shows this ammunition maintains extremely consistent velocity and pressure across extreme conditions. Whether you're hunting in frigid dawn or waiting out midday heat, you can expect reliable and predictable performance. This consistency removes one major variable from field conditions, letting you focus on the shot instead of worrying about how weather will affect your ballistics.
CX Bullet Performance
The CX bullet features a Heat Shield tip designed to resist aerodynamic heating during flight, maintaining consistent ballistic coefficient throughout the bullet's path. Side grooves on the bullet reduce bearing surface and fouling while optimizing aerodynamic performance. The result is a bullet that delivers controlled expansion, deep penetration, and excellent accuracy at extended distances. This design makes the round suitable for medium to large game applications, from whitetail deer to elk, depending on shot placement and distance.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing Company
- Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
- Bullet Weight: 165 Grains
- Bullet Type: CX (Copper Alloy eXpanding)
- Muzzle Velocity: 2940 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 3167 ft-lbs
- Case Material: Brass
- Rounds per Box: 20
- Weight Retention: 95%+
- Manufacturer Part Number: 81169
- UPC: 090255811698
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Hornady Superformance .30-06 Springfield 165 grain CX ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Superformance ammunition achieve higher velocity without increased pressure?
Hornady uses progressive propellants specifically engineered to burn more completely and efficiently. These powders apply pressure to the bullet for a longer duration as it travels down the barrel, rather than creating a sudden pressure spike. The result is up to 200 fps more velocity while remaining safely within SAAMI pressure guidelines. This progressive burn also produces less fouling and cleaner operation.
Is Superformance ammo safe to use in semi-automatic rifles?
Yes, Superformance ammunition is safe for all firearm types including semi-auto rifles, lever guns, and pump actions. However, different gas systems and actions perform differently with the increased velocity, so it's worth testing in your specific rifle to verify reliability and accuracy. Hornady has conducted extensive testing and confirmed the ammunition meets SAAMI standards.
What makes the CX bullet different from other Hornady hunting bullets?
The CX is a one-piece solid copper alloy bullet that won't separate on impact, maintaining 95%+ weight retention for deep penetration and consistent terminal performance. It features a Heat Shield tip that resists aerodynamic heating to maintain consistent ballistic coefficient in flight, and side grooves that improve accuracy while reducing bearing surface and fouling.
Will this ammunition perform consistently in different weather conditions?
Yes. Superformance loads are tested for velocity and pressure stability from minus 20 degrees to plus 140 degrees Fahrenheit, and they maintain extremely consistent performance across this temperature range. This temperature stability makes them reliable for hunting in cold mornings, hot afternoons, or changing seasonal conditions.




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