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130 gr Barnes X in .308 win?

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30 September 2004, 10:44
Paul H
130 gr Barnes X in .308 win?
I haven't seen any data for this bullet in pistol length barrels, but my suposition is a 15" 308 ought to be able to push it out around 2700 fps. Based on the X bullets reputation for weight retention, it seems like perforamnce on game sould be at least as good as a 150 gr cup core bullet, but with noteably flatter trajectory.
01 October 2004, 09:34
Fiftydriver
Paul,

I have tested a few big handguns using X bullets and have never been happy with the terminal performance. They panatrate like mad but often at handgun velocities they expand very unreliably.

One of the handguns I tested them in was my 338 WSM. I was able to drive a coated 160 gr X to just shy of 3100 fps but during penetration tests, one bullet would expand pretty well, the next none at all.

I switched to a 180 gr Ballistic Tip and have been more then happy with the results.

For my big game handguns, I use only B. Tips or Accubonds where they are usible. I have found no better performing bullet made for the big handguns.

At handgun velocities, they often penetrate with Partitions of equal weight.

GOod Shooting!!

Kirby Allen(50)
01 October 2004, 03:53
Bobby Tomek
Paul-In all honesty, I wouldn't even consider it. At the moderate velocity you'd be launching them at, standard 150 grain bullets work just fine and provide all the penetration necessary for shots on medium game. Yes, the trajectory with the 130 grain Barnes would be slightly flattened within conventional hunting ranges, but it would not be enough to be detectable under normal hunting conditions.