Hornady 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™ V-Match™ Ammunition
Specifications (Tested with a 24-inch Hornady test barrel)
✅ Muzzle Velocity: 2,935 fps
✅ Muzzle Energy: TBD (Terminal performance testing ongoing)
✅ Ballistic Coefficient: .410 (G1) / .206 (G7)
✅ Recommended Twist Rate: TBD (Testing in progress)
✅ Quantity: 20 cartridges per box
✅ Hornady Item Number: TBD
Product Overview
The Hornady 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™ delivers precision, speed, and ballistic efficiency, making it a top choice for varmint hunters and competitive shooters. As part of the V-Match™ line, this cartridge utilizes Extremely Low Drag (ELD-VT™) technology to provide flat trajectories, minimal wind drift, and superior precision.
Designed for both AR-15 platforms and bolt-action rifles, the 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™ is optimized for varmint hunting (<50 lbs), long-range target shooting, and match applications.
Key Features
✅ Designed for Precision – The ELD-VT™ bullet ensures high accuracy and minimal drag.
✅ Superior Ballistic Coefficient – Optimized for flat trajectories and wind resistance.
✅ Versatile Applications – Excels in varmint hunting (<50 lbs) and long-range target shooting.
✅ Real-World Performance Tested – Multiple barrel lengths tested for reliable velocity data.
Ballistician’s Notes (Wade Chandler)
- Gas Tuning Considerations: The 80gr ELD-VT™ requires a different gas tune on most AR-15 platforms due to its lighter weight and lower pressure buildup. To ensure reliable cycling, most setups will need more gas and/or a lighter buffer weight. Running your gas block fully open and/or reducing your buffer weight should solve most cycling issues.
- Suppressor Performance: If using a traditional suppressor, no gas tuning issues are expected.
- Barrel Compatibility: Our testing suggests this round is more finicky for precision—some barrels shoot it well, while others do not. We are still gathering data to determine any patterns.
- Expansion Velocity: The ELD-VT™ performs best at higher impact velocities. For optimal expansion, ensure impact velocity stays above 2000 fps. Use a ballistic calculator to estimate your maximum effective range based on your barrel length.
Chronographed Velocity Data
Testing was conducted under controlled conditions:
✅ Temperature: 70°F
✅ Humidity: 30%
✅ Elevation: 2,550 ft
✅ All rifles were properly broken in, cleaned, and fouled before testing.
| Barrel Length | Velocity (fps) | Standard Deviation (SD) |
|---|---|---|
| 12.5" | 2,620 fps | 15 FPS SD |
| 14.5" | 2,750 fps | 20 FPS SD |
| 16" | 2,844 fps | 10 FPS SD |
| 18" | 2,876 fps | 10 FPS SD |
| 20" | 2,935 fps | 12 FPS SD |
Why Choose Hornady 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™?
The 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™ is designed for exceptional precision, velocity, and ballistic performance for varmint hunters and competitive shooters. Whether you need a flat-shooting round for small game or a high-speed cartridge for long-range target shooting, this ammunition provides consistent results and superior accuracy.
Shoot with confidence—Hornady delivers performance when it matters most.
