Description

Why the 147gr Load Exists

The 6.5 Creedmoor is often praised for balance—but balance has edges.

The 147gr ELD-Match sits at the upper boundary of what most factory rifles and barrel lengths handle gracefully. It exists not to replace the 140gr load, but to reveal what changes as bullet mass increases and velocity decreases.

This load is used to examine:

• velocity loss across barrel lengths

• transonic stability margins

• wind drift behavior at distance

• vertical spread sensitivity

It is an analytical tool as much as it is ammunition.

147gr ELD-Match — Mass, BC, and Tradeoffs

The heavier 147gr ELD-Match offers:

• higher ballistic coefficient

• improved wind deflection at long range

• extended supersonic flight in ideal conditions

But it also introduces:

• lower muzzle velocity

• increased barrel length sensitivity

• narrower stability margins in shorter barrels

This is why it appears in comparative testing, not as a universal recommendation.

How This Load Is Used in the Gold Country System

Within Gold Country Ammo content, the 147gr ELD-Match is used to:

• contrast against the 140gr reference load

• illustrate the upper velocity window

• support long-range and transonic discussions

• evaluate barrel length effects in real rifles

It shows shooters where the curve bends.

Consistency Still Comes First

Like all Hornady Match ammunition, this load is assembled with:

• uniform components

• controlled seating depth

• consistent charge weights

• strict quality control

That consistency is critical when analyzing subtle differences between bullet weights.

What This Load Will—and Will Not—Do

This load will:

• provide strong wind performance at distance

• support transonic and long-range analysis

• expose barrel length and velocity limits

• complement the 140gr reference load

It will not:

• outperform the 140gr load in every rifle

• behave predictably in short barrels

• replace disciplined load selection

Its value lies in comparison, not universality.

Referenced In:

• Shooter’s Edge Magazine — Issue No. 1
  Ballistics Bench — The Velocity Window (Upper Edge)

Related Chapter & Technical Notes:

• CHAPTER 5 — Factory Loads Landscape

• Chapter 9 — Cartridge Family & Variants

• TN-11 — Factory Ammo Consistency Studies (6.5 Creedmoor)

• TN-08 — Velocity Window Optimization

Specifications

• Brand: Hornady
• Manufacturer: Hornady
• Manufacturer Part #: 81501
• UPC: 90255815016
• Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor
• Bullet Type: ELD Match
• Grain Weight: 147 gr
• Rounds Per Box: 20
• Case Quantity: 10 boxes (200 rounds)
• Condition: New
• Product Type: Rifle Ammunition
• Intended Use: Precision / Long-Range Match