Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
Hornady Superformance 223 Remington ammunition with 50-grain CX bullets redefines the hunting cartridge ceiling for AR-15 and bolt-action platforms. The Superformance line uses temperature-stable, progressive-burn propellants to push the 50-grain CX hollowpoint to 3300 fps from a 24-inch barrel—up to 200 fps faster than conventional 223 loads without added chamber pressure, recoil, or fouling. The CX (Copper alloy eXpanding) projectile is a monolithic design machined from a single copper alloy blank, eliminating jacket-core separation and delivering 95% weight retention after impact. Its optimized bearing surface reduces copper fouling, while precision grooves minimize drag and stabilize flight across extended ranges. For hunters operating in lead-restricted states or pursuing game from coyotes to hogs, this load brings flat trajectory, deep wound channels, and field-proven accuracy in a California-compliant package.
Load Profile
Each 50-grain CX bullet is a one-piece copper alloy hollowpoint engineered for controlled expansion and straight-line penetration. Hornady machines circumferential grooves into the ogive and shank to reduce bearing contact with the rifling, cutting copper fouling by roughly 30% compared to smooth monolithic designs. The G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.164 and sectional density of 0.142 keep the bullet supersonic past 300 yards, while the jacketed hollow point cavity initiates expansion on impact at velocities as low as 1800 fps. Progressive propellants burn clean and leave minimal residue in gas systems, extending maintenance intervals on direct-impingement ARs. Nickel-plated brass cases resist corrosion in humid climates, feed reliably through semi-auto magazines, and accept new Boxer primers for handloading.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 223 Remington |
| Bullet weight | 50 grains |
| Bullet type | Jacketed Hollow Point (Hornady CX monolithic copper) |
| Muzzle velocity | 3300 fps (24″ barrel) |
| Muzzle energy | 1209 ft-lbs |
| Rounds per box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel-plated brass |
| Primer | Boxer (non-corrosive, reloadable) |
| Lead free | Yes |
| G1 ballistic coefficient | 0.164 |
| Sectional density | 0.142 |
| Velocity rating | Supersonic |
| Intended use | Hunting (medium to large game) |
| Manufacturer | Hornady |
This Superformance load fits Hornady 223 ammo into every SAAMI-spec chamber, from 5.56 NATO barrels with .223 Wylde throats to traditional bolt-action 223 Remington chambers. The 50-grain weight stabilizes in 1:9″ twist and faster, making it compatible with the majority of AR-15 uppers and Mini-14 rifles in circulation.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle 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.
- Treat every firearm as if it is loaded; keep the muzzle pointed in a safe direction at all times.
- Verify current federal, state, and local laws governing ammunition storage, transport, and use in your jurisdiction.
- California Proposition 65 does not apply — this load is lead-free and compliant with California hunting regulations for condor zones and other restricted areas.
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