Hornady V-Match™ – 6mm ARC 80gr ELD-VT™
Precision and Speed for Serious Varmint and Target Shooters
The Hornady V-Match™ 80gr ELD-VT™ in 6mm ARC is built for shooters who demand high velocity, low drag, and explosive terminal effect. This cartridge offers superior downrange performance and flat trajectories, making it a top choice for predator control, varmint hunting, and long-range competition.
Whether you're behind a tuned AR-15 or a precision bolt gun, this load gives you the tools to push the limits of what a 6mm round can do — fast, flat, and on target.
A Short History of the 6mm ARC
The 6mm Advanced Rifle Cartridge (ARC) was launched by Hornady in 2020 to maximize long-range performance in the AR-15 platform. It uses a short-action case but accommodates high-BC 6mm bullets, offering excellent energy retention, low recoil, and extended-range performance. The ARC quickly gained traction with hunters, match shooters, and tactical users for its versatility and efficiency.
Specifications
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Caliber: 6mm ARC
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Bullet Weight: 80 grains
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Bullet Type: ELD-VT™ (Extremely Low Drag – Varmint Tip)
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Muzzle Velocity: 2,935 FPS (24" test barrel)
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Ballistic Coefficient: 0.410 (G1) / 0.206 (G7)
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Case Type: Brass (reloadable)
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Primer Type: Boxer
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Rounds per Box: 20
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Corrosive: No
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Lead-Free: No
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Country of Origin: United States
Chronographed Velocity Data (Ally Munitions Testing)
| Barrel Length | Velocity (FPS) | Standard Deviation (SD) |
|---|---|---|
| 12.5" | 2,620 | 15 fps |
| 14.5" | 2,750 | 20 fps |
| 16" | 2,844 | 10 fps |
| 18" | 2,876 | 10 fps |
| 20" | 2,935 | 12 fps |
Test Conditions: 70°F | 30% Humidity | Elevation: 2,550 ft | All barrels properly broken in and fouled.
Ally Munitions Field Notes
From Wade Chandler:
We’ve been running this 80gr ELD-VT™ load hard and it's proven to be very fast and extremely flat-shooting, especially out of 16”+ barrels. The ballistic performance is excellent, but this round does require a few tuning considerations:
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Gas Tuning: ARs may need additional gas or lighter buffer systems to ensure reliable cycling. Run your gas block wide open or lighten your buffer as needed.
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Barrel Sensitivity: Like many high-velocity varmint rounds, this load can be barrel picky. Some barrels shoot lights-out groups, others may be less consistent.
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Expansion Threshold: For reliable terminal performance, make sure impact velocity remains above 2,000 FPS. Use a ballistic calculator for your platform.
Despite these tuning notes, when optimized, this round hits hard and flies straight — it’s quickly becoming a favorite for coyotes, groundhogs, and steel.
Why Choose Hornady V-Match™ 80gr ELD-VT™?
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High velocity and flat trajectory
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Superior BC compared to many varmint-class rounds
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Match-grade precision with real-world impact performance
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Tunable for gas systems and bolt-action rifles alike
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Explosive terminal effect on varmints under 50 lbs
Safety & Legal Notice
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You must be 18 years or older to purchase rifle ammunition.
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Check all state and local regulations before ordering.
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All ammo sales are final — no returns accepted.
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Confirm your rifle is properly chambered in 6mm ARC before firing.
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Monitor for pressure signs and tune appropriately when using suppressed or gas-driven setups