The Apex of Precision: Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match Ammunition

For discerning shooters who demand nothing less than absolute pinpoint accuracy, the Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr Extremely Low Drag-Match (ELD-M) ammunition (UPC 090255802696) stands as a benchmark of performance. This isn't merely a box of cartridges; it's a meticulously engineered system designed to deliver consistent, repeatable, and devastatingly accurate results on target, whether you're engaging in competitive shooting, pushing the limits of long-range rifle capabilities, or fine-tuning your precision rifle setup.

The Pursuit of Unwavering Accuracy: Why Hornady Match Ammunition Excels

In the world of precision shooting, ammunition is the linchpin. Even the most advanced rifles and skilled marksmen are limited by the consistency and ballistic performance of their chosen rounds. This is where Hornady's Match series shines, specifically the 223 Rem 73 gr ELD-M. It addresses common frustrations faced by precision shooters: inconsistent groupings, unpredictable wind drift, and a lack of confidence in shot placement at extended distances.

Hornady's commitment to quality ensures that every round is a testament to their pursuit of perfection. Their Match ammunition undergoes rigorous quality control checks for proper bullet seating, consistent powder charges, uniform pressures, optimal velocity, and consistent overall length. This meticulous attention to detail translates directly into superior accuracy and predictability downrange. The powders chosen are carefully matched to each load, ensuring optimal pressure curves, peak velocity without excessive recoil, and, most importantly, tight groups. Furthermore, the strictest criteria guide case selection, guaranteeing durable, consistent brass that contributes to the round's overall integrity and performance.

Unpacking the Technology: The ELD® Match Bullet

The heart of this exceptional ammunition is the 73-grain Extremely Low Drag-Match (ELD-M) bullet. This is not just a standard match bullet; it incorporates revolutionary design features that give it a significant edge, particularly at longer ranges where aerodynamic stability and consistent ballistic coefficients are paramount.

• The Patented Heat Shield® Tip: Unlike traditional polymer tips that can deform or melt due to aerodynamic heating during flight, causing a detrimental change in the bullet's Ballistic Coefficient (BC), the Heat Shield® Tip is engineered to resist this effect. It maintains its perfect meplat (the very tip of the bullet) shape from the barrel to the target, ensuring the highest possible BC is preserved throughout the entire trajectory. This innovative feature virtually eliminates BC variability, leading to incredibly predictable flight paths and precise point of impact.
• Optimized Secant Ogive: The ELD-M bullet features an aerodynamically efficient secant ogive profile combined with an optimal boat tail. This design minimizes drag and maximizes ballistic efficiency, allowing the bullet to cut through the air with less resistance, retaining more velocity and energy over distance.
• AMP® Bullet Jacket: Hornady's Advanced Manufacturing Process (AMP®) bullet jackets are renowned for their near-perfect uniformity and concentricity. This translates to zero wall thickness variation, which is crucial for achieving superior accuracy. An inconsistent jacket can lead to imbalances and flyers, but the AMP jacket ensures the bullet spins true and maintains its stability.

Who Benefits Most from Hornady 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match?

This ammunition is specifically engineered for individuals and disciplines where precision is paramount.

• Competitive Shooters: For disciplines like PRS (Precision Rifle Series), NRL (National Rifle League), F-Class, or high-power rifle competitions, consistency is king. The Hornady 73 gr ELD-M provides the reliability and accuracy needed to shave points off your score and climb the ranks.
• Long-Range Enthusiasts: If your goal is to push the practical limits of your .223 Remington rifle, this ammunition is your ideal partner. Its high ballistic coefficient and stability make it capable of impressive performance well beyond typical engagement distances for the caliber.
• Precision Rifle Builders and Tuners: For those who meticulously craft and tune their rifles, using consistent, high-quality ammunition like Hornady Match rounds provides a reliable baseline for testing and optimizing firearm performance.
• Varmint Hunters Requiring Surgical Precision: While primarily a match bullet, for varmint hunters who demand absolute precision to minimize collateral damage or ensure a clean, ethical take at extended ranges, the accuracy of the 73 gr ELD-M can be a significant advantage.
• Dedicated Target Shooters: Anyone committed to achieving the tightest possible groups at the range will appreciate the inherent accuracy and consistency built into every Hornady Match cartridge.

Answering Your Top Questions About .223 Precision Ammunition

Many shooters come to DEGuns.com with specific questions about optimizing their .223 Remington for accuracy and long-range performance. Here’s how the Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match addresses these common inquiries:

• "What is the best .223 ammunition for long-range shooting?" The Hornady 73 gr ELD Match is consistently ranked among the top choices for long-range .223/5.56mm applications. Its high ballistic coefficient and the Heat Shield® Tip ensure excellent wind resistance and trajectory predictability, crucial for hitting targets at extended distances.
• "How does bullet weight affect .223 accuracy at distance?" Heavier bullets like the 73 grain ELD-M generally offer superior ballistic coefficients and stability in flight, especially when paired with appropriate barrel twist rates (typically 1:7" or 1:8" twist barrels are recommended for 73 gr and heavier projectiles). This translates to less wind drift and drop, making them inherently more accurate for long-range engagements compared to lighter, faster bullets that may be more susceptible to environmental factors.
• "What makes Hornady ELD Match bullets superior?" The combination of the Heat Shield® Tip, the AMP® jacket, and the optimized secant ogive design sets ELD Match bullets apart. These technologies work in concert to deliver unparalleled consistency in BC, exceptional concentricity, and minimal drag, leading to superior accuracy and predictable flight.
• "How can I achieve consistent sub-MOA groups with my AR-15 or bolt action .223?" While rifle quality and shooter skill are vital, using premium match-grade ammunition like the Hornady 73 gr ELD Match is a fundamental step. Its manufacturing consistency minimizes ammunition-induced variables, allowing you to isolate and improve other aspects of your shooting system.
• "Is 73 grain a good bullet weight for .223 Remington?" For precision and long-range shooting, 73 grains is an excellent bullet weight in .223 Remington, provided your rifle's barrel has a suitable twist rate. It offers a significant ballistic advantage over lighter projectiles, carrying more energy and resisting wind more effectively.

Ballistic Prowess: Understanding the Numbers

The specifications of the Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD-M speak volumes about its performance capabilities:

• Muzzle Velocity (2790 fps): This optimal velocity is carefully balanced to ensure efficient powder burn, consistent pressures, and excellent downrange performance without sacrificing bullet integrity or promoting excessive barrel wear.
• Muzzle Energy (1262 ft lbs): This energy level indicates substantial power delivered to the target, ensuring effective performance for its intended application of target shooting and precision work.
• Sectional Density (.208): Sectional density is a measure of a bullet's mass divided by its cross-sectional area. A higher sectional density (for a given caliber) generally correlates with better penetration and a higher ballistic coefficient, contributing to the bullet's ability to retain velocity and resist external forces.
• High Ballistic Coefficient (BC): While not explicitly stated in the provided snippet, the 73 gr ELD-M is known for its high G1 and G7 ballistic coefficients (G1 BC values typically range from .398 to .410 for this specific bullet, depending on velocity and conditions). A high BC means the bullet sheds velocity slower and is less affected by wind, making it ideal for accurate shooting at extended ranges. This reduction in wind drift and drop allows for simpler adjustments and a greater chance of first-round impacts.

The Hornady Legacy: A Foundation of Trust and Innovation

Hornady Manufacturing Company has been a leading name in the ammunition industry for decades, built on a foundation of innovation, quality, and a deep understanding of what shooters need. Their commitment to research and development, particularly in bullet design and ballistic performance, has consistently set industry standards. Choosing Hornady Match ammunition means investing in a product backed by a legacy of excellence and a relentless pursuit of the best possible shooting experience. When you pick up a box of Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD-M, you're not just getting ammunition; you're getting a meticulously crafted solution born from decades of ballistic expertise.

Why Choose Hornady Match from DEGuns?

As a leading provider of firearms and ammunition, DEGuns.com is proud to offer the Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match. When you purchase from DEGuns, you are assured of receiving genuine, factory-fresh ammunition. We understand the needs of serious shooters and strive to provide access to the highest quality products on the market. With 20 rounds per box and 10 boxes per case, this offering ensures you have sufficient supply for extensive range sessions, training, and competition. DEGuns is your reliable source for this exceptional ammunition, ensuring you have the consistent performance you need, readily available.

Maximizing Your Precision Shooting Experience

To fully leverage the capabilities of Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match ammunition, consider these factors:

1. Barrel Twist Rate: Ensure your rifle's barrel has a twist rate appropriate for stabilizing heavier bullets like 73 grains. A 1:7" or 1:8" twist rate is generally recommended for optimal performance with this projectile.
2. Rifle Consistency: Even the best ammunition can't overcome an inconsistent rifle. Ensure your scope is properly mounted, your action is torqued correctly, and your barrel is free-floated if possible.
3. Shooting Fundamentals: Ammunition consistency allows you to focus on refining your shooting technique – breath control, trigger discipline, and natural point of aim are critical for exploiting the inherent accuracy of this round.
4. Ballistic Calculators: Utilize a ballistic calculator with the specific BC data for the 73 gr ELD-M bullet to generate precise firing solutions for varying distances and environmental conditions.

The Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD-M ammunition is more than just a component; it's an investment in your shooting performance. It provides the consistency, precision, and ballistic superiority required to achieve your most ambitious accuracy goals, shot after shot, box after box.

Product Specifications: Hornady Match 223 Rem 73 gr ELD Match (UPC 090255802696)

Attribute	Detail
Brand	Hornady
Model	Match
Caliber	223 Rem
Bullet Type	Extremely Low Drag-Match (ELD-M)
Bullet Weight	73 gr
Rounds Per Box	20
Boxes Per Case	10
Casing Material	Brass
Muzzle Velocity	2790 fps
Muzzle Energy	1262 ft lbs
Sectional Density	.208
Application	Target Shooting, Competition, Long-Range Precision
SKU	22918
UPC	090255802696
MPN	80269