ations, 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.