The Hornady SST 8mm .323 170 grain bullets deliver controlled expansion and deep penetration for hunting medium to large game. These Super Shock Tip projectiles feature Hornady's proven polymer tip design that initiates rapid expansion while maintaining weight retention for maximum terminal performance.
What Makes This Different
The SST bullet combines a polymer tip with Hornady's InterLock ring technology to prevent jacket and core separation during expansion. Unlike traditional soft point bullets that can lose velocity quickly, the aerodynamic polymer tip maintains higher ballistic coefficients for flatter trajectories. The secant ogive profile reduces drag and wind drift compared to standard spitzer designs, extending effective range by 50-75 yards.
Key Features
- 170 grain weight optimized for 8mm Mauser and similar cartridges
- Polymer tip initiates controlled expansion at velocities down to 1,600 fps
- InterLock ring mechanically locks jacket to core preventing separation
- Secant ogive boat-tail design improves ballistic coefficient to .400
- Cannelured shank ensures consistent bullet seating and crimp retention
- Lead core with gilding metal jacket for reliable feeding
- 100 bullets per box for extended shooting sessions
Field testing shows these bullets maintain 60-70% weight retention while creating wound channels 2-3 times bullet diameter. The 170 grain weight provides sufficient sectional density for elk, moose, and similar sized game at ranges exceeding 300 yards. Accuracy typically runs 1-2 MOA in quality rifles with proper load development. The polymer tip remains intact during magazine feeding and chambering in bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles.
Technical Specs
- Caliber: 8mm (.323 diameter)
- Weight: 170 grains
- Bullet Type: Super Shock Tip (SST)
- Ballistic Coefficient: .400 (G1)
- Sectional Density: .232
- Construction: Lead core with gilding metal jacket
- Tip Material: Red polymer
- Cannelure: Yes
- Quantity: 100 bullets per box
- Manufacturer: Hornady Manufacturing
- Country of Origin: USA
These SST bullets represent proven terminal ballistics technology refined through decades of development. The combination of accuracy, expansion characteristics, and weight retention makes them suitable for hunters demanding consistent performance across varying shot distances and game sizes.