HAYSVILLE, OHIO – July 15, 2025 – HOP Munitions’ 62-grain Solid Copper REX 5.56 cartridge continues to build its reputation as a go-to round for hog hunters, aerial wildlife control teams, and independent contractors across the country. One such professional, Tucker of Adaptive Improved Management (AIM), recently shared real-world performance results after extensive use of the round in both USDA Wildlife Services and private wildlife management operations.
“We specifically used the REX round for feral swine in our aerial program,” said Tucker. “From 20 yards to nearly 300 yards, the results were consistent and devastating. Whether it was juvenile pigs or 350-pound boars, we witnessed complete shoulder destruction, internal dislocation, and rapid incapacitation—even from shorter barrels like a 10.5-inch AR.”
Tucker’s field testing included night hunts, barrier testing, gel block evaluation, and high-adrenaline aerial engagements. He noted that even under challenging circumstances—such as pigs running at full speed—placing two rounds on target from a helicopter was enough to end the pursuit instantly.
Key findings from his experience include:
- Lethal Performance Across Distances: From 20 to 300 yards, the round maintained consistent terminal performance.
- Clean Expansion on Soft and Hard Targets: Even on smaller pigs, the round did not over-penetrate. Instead, it delivered full expansion and maximum trauma.
- Barrier-Defeating Capability: Gel block tests, both with and without barriers, consistently showed 14–16 inches of penetration with aggressive petal expansion.
- Short Barrel Compatibility: Accuracy and performance held steady from SBRs as short as 10.5 inches, making the REX round a versatile choice for mobile and aerial platforms.
- Reliable Terminal Ballistics: In larger swine, the round caused catastrophic damage to bone and tissue, including complete pass-through and mechanical disruption of vital zones.
“We attempted to find out when the round wouldn’t perform,” Tucker added. “But we couldn’t find a weakness. It did exactly what it was advertised to do—every time.”
Now operating under his own company, Adaptive Improved Management (AIM), Tucker continues to rely on the 62-grain Solid Copper REX for invasive species management.
Ammunition Specs:
Caliber: 5.56
Grain Weight: 62
Bullet Type: Solid Copper REX (Rapid EXpanding)
Muzzle Velocity: 2,870 fps
Muzzle Energy: 1,134 ft/lbs
Ballistic Coefficient: .300
Sectional Density: .177
Package Quantity: 20 or 50
For agencies and hunters seeking a dependable, non-toxic projectile that delivers deep penetration, rapid expansion, and consistent accuracy across barrel lengths, HOP Munitions’ REX round stands as a proven solution.
For bulk department orders, contact Tyler Flinn
Email: tyler.flinn@hopmunitions.com
Cell: (330) 749-5234
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