Hi All,

I'm currently shooting the 165gr Barnes-X (sako Factory load) in my 308win.

I was curious as to the difference between this and the new TSX bullet (is it new?). Also does anyone use the TSX in factory load in the UK? or indeed is one available?

It would have to be a factory load as, if I develop another occupation which involves me not talking to the other half of an evening, (reloading/fly-tying) I may not have anyone to look after the dog when I want to shoot/fish abroad!!!

Thanks,
FB

quote:

Originally posted by Fallow Buck:
I was curious as to the difference between this and the new TSX bullet (is it new?). FB

The TSX is pretty new - maybe 2 years or so?? Apart from all the technical, marketing stuff (grooves, less pressures, driving bands, less fouling - and what have you), I'd say: the main difference is that it is a lot easier to get a TSX to shoot than a regular X. Most AR members that have used TSX, seem to have found good, accurate loads - which is more than you can say about X, which are notoriously finicky. The TSX probably develops somewhat lower pressures than X bullets do, and they possibly foul less.

Apart from that, both X and TSX are well suited for high velocities (no chance of core/jacket separation), and probably best suited to tougher game.

I have been shooting 168 grs TSX in a .300 Win Mag (1" groups), 140 grs TSX in a .270 Win (1" groups) and 100 grs TSX in a .257 Wby (1" groups). Not exactly BR stuff, but good, solid hunting accuracy. All my loads have been handloads. Off hand, I don't know of any manufacturer that loads TSX bullets in factory ammo, but I'm sure it won't be long before they appear...

- mike

Thanks Mike,

Also there is the coated version available "XLC" (? I think). Is there much of an advantage to this?

Rgds,
FB

The XLC was the technology Barnes employed before they came up with the TSX - attempting to achieve a drop in pressures and reduced fowling compared to the original X. These days, if you can get hold of the TSX, that is the way I would personally go. I have heard good reports about the XLC as well, but the blue coating has a way of getting into your dies etc. But if you are not a reloader, this would naturally be of less importance to you.

- mike

Thanks Mike,

I have found out that Federal use the Triple Shock in one of their loads, so I'm going to go and give them a go.

I'll post the results if they are not too embarrasing!!!

Thanks again,
FB

TSX are the greatest. If you wan to see pictures of recovered bullets, write me..

tblauwkamp@superior-sales.com

Fallow Buck,

I just received my copy of American Hunter (June 2005). There is an advertisement on page 35 for Federal's Premium Vital-Shok ammunition line loaded with Barnes Triple Shock X-Bullets.

PS - While the box in the picture doesn't say....the round pictured appears to be a .308 Winchester!

Have fun!