Blaser CDX Ammo: A Gamechanger for the 8.5x55 Blaser Caliber.

Specifications, Reviews, Price. The 8.5x55 Blaser cartridge has long been admired for its versatility and power, but with the introduction of Blaser CDX ammunition, this caliber has entered a new era of long-range precision and ethical hunting performance. Engineered for hunters and sport shooters who demand uncompromising results, the CDX bullet redefines what’s possible with short-barreled rifles and lead-free technology. 🔍 Overview of Blaser CDX Ammo Blaser CDX stands for Copper Deformation Xtreme, a monolithic copper bullet designed for maximum penetration, controlled expansion, and minimal meat damage. It’s a deformation projectile—not a fragmenting one—ensuring consistent performance across a wide range of game sizes and shooting distances. • Caliber: 8.5x55 Blaser • Bullet Weight: 180 grains / 11.7 grams • Ballistic Coefficient (BC): 0.507 • Material: Lead-free, highly ductile copper alloy • Design Features:• Triple-Hydro-Jet tip for rapid expansion • Internal notches for controlled mushrooming • Boattail base for enhanced aerodynamics • Nickel plating and driving bands for reduced barrel fouling ⚙️ Technical Specifications • Muzzle Velocity: ~920 m/s • Energy at Muzzle: ~4930 Joules • Effective Range: Up to 400+ meters • GEE (Zero Range): 192 meters • Barrel Compatibility: Optimized for short barrels (47–60 cm) with minimal velocity loss 🧪 Modifications & Systems Blaser CDX is currently available in the 8.5x55 Blaser caliber, which was developed in collaboration with Norma using a modified .404 Jeffery case. The cartridge is designed to burn efficiently in short barrels, making it ideal for suppressed rifles and compact hunting setups. Compatible systems include: • Blaser R8: Modular rifle system with interchangeable barrels • Blaser K95: Lightweight single-shot rifle for stalking • Blaser Silence: Integrated suppressor system for stealth hunting 🦌 Hunting Applications The CDX bullet is engineered for medium to heavy game, including: • Red deer • Wild boar • Moose • Large antelope • Roe deer (at extended ranges) Its 100% weight retention ensures deep penetration and reliable exit wounds, even on thick-skinned animals. The rapid expansion from the Hydro-Jet tip delivers a strong shock effect, making it suitable for ethical one-shot kills. 💬 Reviews: Pros & Cons ✅ Pros • Exceptional accuracy: Sub-MOA groups reported at 100m • Long-range capability: Maintains energy and trajectory beyond 400m • Lead-free: Complies with modern hunting regulations • Minimal meat damage: Controlled expansion without fragmentation • Short barrel optimization: Ideal for suppressed rifles ❌ Cons • Price: Premium cost (~€7.30 per round or €146 per box of 20) • Availability: Limited distribution outside Europe • Nickel plating: Mixed opinions on barrel cleaning and wear 📌 Expanded Facts About 8.5×55 Blaser and CDX Ammunition • The 8.5×55 Blaser cartridge was introduced in 2002 by Blaser in cooperation with Norma, built specifically for hunting large game at extended ranges using short barrels. • Based on the .404 Jeffery case, the 8.5×55 Blaser delivers high energy and velocity without requiring long barrels, making it ideal for compact rifles, suppressor setups, and alpine stalking. • Blaser CDX stands for Copper Deformation Xtreme, a lead-free monolithic bullet designed to deform without fragmentation, ensuring deep penetration and consistent wound channels. • The CDX bullet features HydroJet expansion technology — a design that allows hydraulic pressure to initiate controlled mushrooming, even at low impact velocities. • With a ballistic coefficient of 0.507, the 180-grain CDX projectile provides flat trajectory, high retained velocity, and minimal wind drift — excellent performance for long-range hunting. • CDX bullets undergo CNC precision turning, offering match-grade uniformity and tight tolerances ideal for accuracy-focused hunters and sport shooters. • The driving bands and nickel plating reduce barrel fouling, supporting high-volume shooting and faster cleaning. • The cartridge maintains terminal performance beyond 400 meters, outperforming traditional soft points and fragmenting bullets. • Despite using a short barrel (as short as 47 cm), the round maintains velocity and expansion, an advantage in suppressed setups and dynamic hunting scenarios. 💡 Why Hunters and Shooters Choose Blaser CDX • Precision: CNC-turned bullets with tight tolerances • Versatility: Suitable for stalking, driven hunts, and long-range shooting • Sustainability: Lead-free design protects game meat and environment • Innovation: Combines modern metallurgy with aerodynamic engineering 💰 Pricing & Availability Blaser CDX 180gr ammo is sold in boxes of 20 rounds. Pricing varies by region and quantity: • Retail Price: ~€146 per box • Bulk Discounts:• 5–9 boxes: ~€138.70 • 10–14 boxes: ~€131.40 • 15+ boxes: ~€124.10 Note: Ammunition is not currently distributed in North America. 🏁 Final Thoughts For hunters and precision shooters seeking a high-performance, ethical, and modern solution, Blaser CDX ammo in 8.5x55 Blaser is a standout choice. Its combination of ballistic excellence, game-stopping power, and environmental responsibility makes it a true gamechanger.