Hornady Superformance 6.5 Creedmoor 120 Grain Copper Alloy eXpanding

Both use the identical CX 120 gr bullet. Choose Superformance (this load) for the velocity advantage — 125 fps faster, noticeably flatter trajectory, more energy at distance. Choose Outfitter when weatherproofing matters — nickel-plated, sealed primer pocket and case mouth for watertight protection on backcountry hunts. The prices are nearly identical (~$0.05/round). For most hunting situations without extreme weather exposure, Superformance delivers meaningfully better ballistics for the same money.

Yes — 3,050 fps is the highest velocity of any lead-free factory 6.5 Creedmoor load in this report series. The next fastest alternatives (Barnes Vor-Tx TTSX, Nosler E-Tip) top out at 2,850–2,910 fps. Hornady achieves this with Superformance propellants that burn more efficiently without exceeding SAAMI pressure limits. The tradeoff is that this load uses standard brass without weatherproofing — the Outfitter at 2,925 fps is the “all-conditions” version.

Yes — the CX bullet is a monolithic copper alloy projectile with no lead core, qualifying as nonlead ammunition under California DFW regulations. Superformance CX is labeled lead-free by Hornady. Always verify current California DFW requirements before hunting season.

This difference relates to bullet construction, not measurement error. The Barnes TTSX uses a pure copper body with polymer tip — copper’s density and the TTSX’s specific ogive geometry produce a slightly more aerodynamic profile. The CX uses gilding metal (copper alloy) with relief grooves that manage pressure but marginally affect aerodynamic efficiency. NRA American Hunter’s reviewer noted Hornady has moved toward using their 4DOF ballistic program rather than publishing a single BC — the 0.428 value may be a conservative published figure. At hunting distances inside 400 yards, the BC difference between 0.428 and 0.453 is less than 2 inches of drop difference.