Expanded XTP 124s and Gold Dot 125

[jeffreybehr]

Finally got out to destroy more waterjugs. Here are the results.

The XTPs, 2 new and 3 expanded, are on the left; the GD on the right. Shot into plastic waterjugs at c. 10', both at c. 1380FPS.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k220/jeffreybehr/Glock%2032/357SIGexpandedbullets_1000w.jpg

Altho the GD looks a little better, in the sense that it stayed expanded to a greater diameter because the lead bonded to the petals held them out farther, I again am quite pleased with the performance of the XTP. Surely it's the best-value PD bullet around. At c. $15 per box delivered, I can afford to shoot them a bunch.

[MinervaDoe]

Thanks for opening a thread on this. I've included your other posts from the thread you originally posted them in.

Now that Hornady has a 'super-premium' bullet, the FTX, the retail prices on the XTPs are lower. Midway sells the 124g. for $14.99 and had it on sale for $14.19; I ordered 10 boxes.

I've used the 155g. in my 40 and tested it.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k220/jeffreybehr/Shooting%20stuff/20Nov20_8expandedbullets_1200w.jpg

Altho the GoldDot and PDX1 looked a little 'better' in my waterjug tests, I still chose the XTP.

I just started reloading a 357SIG and again chose the XTP; it's a fine PD bullet.


One sample of the Nosler 135 separated completely; one was about to. If you want a 'fragmenter', this is the one. Those are 2 XTPs on the left and the much-vaunted-but-highly-disappointing Remington Golden Sabers in the center.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k220/jeffreybehr/Shooting%20stuff/08Nov09_6expandedbullets_1200w.jpg

Some say that testing in water in HIGHLY NONindicative of how a bullet performs in the bodies of badguys. They MAY be right, but I'll still take a bullet that expands, penetrates, and stays together in highly homogeneous jugs of water to one that doesn't. :embarassed:

FWIW, I'll have some pics of 124g. 0.3555" XTPs shot into water at c. 1400FPS tomorrow.

[jeffreybehr]

Minerva, TYVM. Not to confuse matters even more, but after developing that PD load with XTPs, I just bought 250 new Speer 125g. GoldDot LE-load cartridges* from a fellow GT member, so I guess I'll be carrying those for a while. :embarassed:

Now it's time to seriously work on an inexpensive practice round with the 124g. Berry's plated HP** at slightly lower velocities.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k220/jeffreybehr/Glock%2032/Berrys124gHPs_1000w.jpg

I've loaded these to velocities as high as c. 1450FPS (at 10'), and those groups were as small as those of other bullets so apparently the plating adheres, but I think I'll try for c. 1200FPS.


* These are the slightly faster load, #54234... http://le.atk.com/general/speerproducts/handgun/GoldDot.aspx .

** HPs make shooting at waterjugs LOTS more fun. :supergrin:

[MinervaDoe]

Now it's time to seriously work on an inexpensive practice round with the 124g. Berry's plated HP** at slightly lower velocities.

http://i89.photobucket.com/albums/k220/jeffreybehr/Glock%2032/Berrys124gHPs_1000w.jpg

.... I think I'll try for c. 1200FPS.
Good idea.
Obligatory plated bullets disclaimer. :whistling:

Q3. Do your bullets have ANY velocity restrictions?
A. In general, our bullets typically perform their best when shot at velocities no greater than 1,200 to 1,250 Feet per second (FPS).


FAQ: How fast can I shoot these bullets?
Velocities depend on the caliber, but as a rule of thumb, we recommend you don't shoot our plated bullets over 1200 feet-per-second. Our 44's actually shoot best around 1150 fps. 45's are generally good at 850-900 fps. Our bullets are not recommended for magnum velocities.