.264 123 gr amax

6.5Express · #1 07-16-2011, 09:05 AM

Anyone using the A max for hunting (antelope / deer sized game)? The 123 gr a max has a high bc and should be able to be pushed fairly fast in my 264 win mag. I could not get bergers to go in my factory 9 twist barrel. I've gotten the 130 gr accubond to shoot but it likes a "slower" load. I'm down around 3065 fps (15 feet out from the muzzle). If i could get the 123 gr a max to shoot at 3250 (conservative velocity?), it would be flatter and buck the wind better than the accubond at 3065. I just don't know about performance on deer sized game. Even the 120 gr ballistic tip should give me better ballistics (according to the G7 program) than the 130 at the velocity I'm shooting.

Any input?

Nomosendero · #2 07-16-2011, 01:04 PM

It would be good to check with Hornady about the jacket thickness, etc.
I don't see why I could not get 3,400-3,500fps in my 264, it would be a mean Antelope round if not too explosive!

6.5Express · #3 07-16-2011, 01:36 PM

I've searched through a lot of threads that discussed the idea of using the a max for hunting, and that has been thoroughly gone over. My question was a little more specific to the 123 gr in any 6.5 (preferably the 264 win mag). I was trying to be conservative on the velocity as my rifle seems to "like" the lower to middle of velocities for accuracy. It seems to me it would be one heck of an antelope load! According to the G7program, at 3300 it would shoot flatter and pack more energy down country than the 130 accubond I'm currently shooting. And, at 3300, as long as shots were atleast 100+ yards I don't think I'd have any issue with "splashing."

Nomosendero · #4 07-16-2011, 03:14 PM

6.5 Exp, I have also read tons of info concerning the A-Max for hunting. But I notice that Hornady has a 120 A-Max & for this 123A-max they list it as 123 Gr. A-Max (Grendel/LBC/Lapua)
Now, is it listed that way because of a diff. jacket thickness & better matched up to these lower vel. round, diff. shape, what exactly. Anyone who shoots alot of diff. wt & cal. BT's know that those jackets vary alot.
So, does anyone know that this specific A-Max would be a light game bullet & at what vel? And I don't see where that conversation has been covered thoughly or at all.

chas3stix · #5 07-16-2011, 03:49 PM

The Hornady site lists a 120Gr. GMX bullet that is a solid with a polymer tip. The 123Gr. A-MAX has an asterisk next to it saying that match bullets aren't meant for hunting.
I hope this helps.

6.5Express · #6 07-16-2011, 03:52 PM

Nomosendero sorry, that's exactly the question I'm looking to get answered here. When I say that there has been plenty of discussion regarding the a max, I mean the a-max in general - I've read through quite a few threads that discuss that. This is why I'm asking about this bullet in particular - for the exact reason you stated. I just figured someone else would've tried or called Hornady already, that's all. With it's BC and the velocities that would be very easily attained with the 264 win mag, it should be a great long range bullet - just looking for some first hand experience is all. But, I do appreciate your reply.

JeffP40 · #7 07-16-2011, 09:08 PM

I'm running the b-tips in my 6.5-06AI. The 100s are at 3550, and the 120s are around 3250. you should get at least that with the 120s in your 264. I have not had a chance to use the A-max due to availability. I would not be afraid to use them on deer sized game.