Elk Bullets - LRX vs HHT

[armiller1991]

7 PRC
22 inch Barrel
Handloading.

Narrowed my bullet Selection for a WY Elk Hunt to the 160 LRX or 162 Hammer HHT.
I historically prefer bonded bullets. I like the wind deflection and retained velocity higher BC projectiles provide, but want the penetration of bonded/copper.
I started with the 175 ABLR, but havnt been able to get the consistency/accuracy I am looking for. Not interested in regular ABs, ELDX or Bergers at this time. Would try Fed TA, but they are unobtainium as components lol

I have started development on the HHT and have had great accuracy and velocity around 3100fps. But havnt shot at distance.
LRX arrived today, so haven't started.
Obviously if one is significantly more accurate, that would seal the deal.

Looking for experience on a few things..

- The box BC of the HHT is acceptable but the LRX is very nice. Both allow me to meet my range goals, while staying above 2200-2000fps. I have seen some reviews of inflated BCs on some of the HHTs, but not as much on LRX? Anyone have experience?

- I understand the differences in design (retention vs pedal separation), but don't have any experience with monos. Can anyone with experience on game with both chime in?

- Anything else to consider in comparing these two?

Thanks!

 

[jhm2023]

Not for elk, but I've shot the various Barnes, to include the LRX for the past 13 or so years in everything from .224 to .375. 7mm in the 140-155gr class is my all-time favorite caliber for general Alaska use for deer and sheep up to moose and grizz. I still use my old stock Barnes on occasion, but I switched primarily to Hammer Hunter and HHT several years back due to better consistency from one projectile to the next and one lot to the next, they generally can be pushed a little faster before showing pressure, better accuracy, and they seem to kill faster than Barnes. I don't get in the weeds over BC too much as I only take shots on game at 600 and in, and I prioritize the terminal performance over BC within reason. You should be confirming drops and truing BC regardless of what the manufacturer states it is. My wife and I have shot 6 moose with a 6.5 Creed using the 124 gr Hammers and this past season I shot a nice bull with the 145gr HHT from my 20" 7 PRC and we never feel under gunned or wish we shot larger caliber or heavier bullets. I'll likely be switching to the new 141gr Hammer HBC to bump up the velocity and BC slightly for my 7 PRC, but if you prefer heavier, they will be coming out with a 154gr HBC.