The Hornady Superformance .308 Winchester 165 Grain SST delivers a significant velocity advantage — up to 200 fps faster than standard loads — making it one of the most capable factory rifle cartridges available for hunting and long-range shooting.
- Superformance propellant pushes 165 gr SST to 2,840 fps muzzle velocity
- Up to 200 fps gain over conventional loads with no added pressure
- SST bullet offers controlled expansion and devastating terminal performance
- Polymer tip initiates rapid, reliable expansion across a wide velocity range
- No increase in recoil, muzzle blast, fouling, or temperature sensitivity
- Consistent accuracy with boat-tail design and precision InterLock cannelure
Who This Is For
This load is purpose-built for deer, elk, and big game hunters who demand maximum downrange energy and flat trajectories from their .308 Win rifles. It's also an excellent choice for long-range target shooters who want proven factory ammunition with match-grade consistency and terminal reliability in a single package.
Specifications
| Brand | Hornady |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Bullet Weight | 165 Grain |
| Bullet Type | SST (Super Shock Tip) |
| Muzzle Velocity | 2,840 fps |
| Muzzle Energy | 2,953 ft-lbs |
| Ballistic Coefficient (G1) | 0.447 |
| Propellant | Superformance Progressive |
| Casing | Brass |
| Primer Type | Boxer |
| Rounds Per Box | 20 |
| Country of Origin | USA |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes the SST bullet different from a standard soft point?
The SST (Super Shock Tip) features a precision polymer tip that initiates rapid, uniform expansion on impact — even at lower velocities typical of longer ranges. The secant ogive profile and boat-tail base improve the ballistic coefficient compared to traditional flat-base soft points, resulting in a flatter trajectory, better retained energy, and more consistent terminal performance on game animals from close range out to several hundred yards.
Is this ammunition safe to use in any .308 Winchester rifle?
Yes. Hornady Superformance ammunition is loaded to SAAMI-standard pressure levels, so it is safe to use in any .308 Winchester (or 7.62×51 NATO-spec) firearm in good working condition. The velocity gains are achieved through advanced progressive propellants — not by exceeding safe pressure limits — so there is no additional wear or stress on your chamber or bolt compared to standard factory loads.
How does this load perform at longer hunting distances?
Thanks to its high muzzle velocity of 2,840 fps and the SST's high ballistic coefficient of approximately 0.447 (G1), this load retains energy exceptionally well at distance. At 400 yards it still carries over 1,600 ft-lbs of energy — well above the 1,000 ft-lb benchmark recommended for ethical deer-sized game harvests. The flat trajectory also minimizes holdover, making longer shots more manageable in the field.
- Caliber:
- 308 WIN
- Bullet Weight:
- 165 GR
- Bullet Type:
- SST
- Purpose:
- Hunting
- Type:
- Rifle Ammunition
- Box Quantity:
- 20
- Case Quantity:
- 200
- Lead Free:
- No