Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Hornady Outfitter 308 Winchester 165-grain load pairs a monolithic copper-alloy CX bullet with nickel-plated, sealed brass to deliver a hunting round engineered for wet climates, altitude shifts, and jurisdictions requiring lead-free projectiles. At 2610 fps muzzle velocity and 2496 ft·lbs energy, this cartridge balances sectional density (0.248) and a G1 BC of 0.44 for reliable expansion on medium to large game at typical hunting distances. Hornady designed the Outfitter line for guides, outfitters, and hunters who pack rifles into remote terrain where ammunition must withstand rain, snow, and rough handling without performance loss.
Load Profile
The CX bullet — Copper alloy eXpanding — is a one-piece design that retains 95% of its weight through bone and tissue. The polymer Heat Shield tip resists deformation from aerodynamic heating, maintaining meplat consistency across temperature ranges. Optimized grooves reduce bearing surface and fouling while preserving BC. Nickel-plated cases resist corrosion in belt loops and magazine wells, and each case mouth is sealed to keep powder and primer dry. Boxer primers and reloadable brass let you recycle once-fired cases.
The Numbers
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 308 Winchester |
| Bullet weight | 165 grains |
| Bullet type | Polymer Tip (Hornady CX) |
| Muzzle velocity | 2610 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 2496 ft·lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Lead free | Yes |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.44 |
| Sectional density | 0.248 |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
This load is fully California compliant and legal in other jurisdictions requiring non-lead projectiles. The monolithic construction delivers deep penetration on elk, mule deer, and black bear, with controlled expansion that preserves bullet mass. Find additional Hornady 308 ammo options for match, training, and varmint applications on our category page.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Follow the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, never point at anything you do not intend to shoot, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, and know your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current state and local ammunition regulations in your jurisdiction — some areas restrict or ban certain bullet types, calibers, or magazine capacities.
- Store ammunition in its original packaging, away from moisture and temperature extremes. Nickel-plated cases resist corrosion but still require dry storage for long-term reliability.
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