Let’s Talk About **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off**
The HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) ammunition is crafted by HSM (Hunting Shack Munitions) for enthusiasts of cowboy action shooting and those who appreciate the classic cartridges of the American West. This particular load features a 240-grain Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) bullet designed for accuracy and reliability in lever-action rifles chambered in .38-55 Winchester. With a focus on replicating the feel of older black powder loads while utilizing modern smokeless powder, this ammunition provides a unique shooting experience for both competitive and recreational shooters.
My interest in the HSM ammunition stemmed from a desire to enhance my participation in Single Action Shooting Society (SASS) events. I needed a reliable and accurate .38-55 Winchester load that would perform consistently in my Henry rifle. I was also looking for something that offered a nod to the historical aspect of the cartridge, making it a perfect fit for the cowboy action shooting discipline.
The box arrived in standard HSM packaging, nothing particularly fancy. Upon opening, the rounds were neatly arranged, and the brass casings had a clean, consistent appearance. The 240-grain RNFP bullets looked well-formed, and the overall build quality seemed excellent at first glance.
I considered other brands, including offerings from Black Hills Ammunition and Winchester, but HSM‘s Cowboy Action line specifically targeted the needs of SASS shooters and offered a compelling combination of price and performance. The HSM rounds were also on sale, making them a more attractive option. The 34% Off certainly caught my eye.
My initial reaction was excitement. I was eager to test these rounds in my Henry rifle and see if they lived up to their promise of accuracy and reliability. The attention to detail in the bullet design and the reputation of HSM gave me confidence that this ammunition would be a great addition to my shooting setup.
Real-World Testing: Putting **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition at my local outdoor shooting range, focusing on targets placed at 25, 50, and 100 yards. The weather conditions were clear and sunny, with a slight breeze. I used my Henry Side Gate rifle, a popular choice among cowboy action shooters.
The rounds performed admirably under these conditions. They cycled smoothly through the action of my Henry rifle, and I didn’t experience any malfunctions or feeding issues. The recoil was manageable, feeling similar to the original black powder loads that the .38-55 Winchester was designed for, but with the cleaner burn of smokeless powder.
The HSM rounds required very little adjustment to my sights. I was achieving consistent groupings within a 3-inch diameter at 50 yards after the first few shots. There were no unexpected pressure signs or other anomalies during that initial use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition, it has consistently performed well. I’ve put several hundred rounds through my Henry rifle, and it continues to be a reliable and accurate choice for both target shooting and SASS events. The ammunition is durable, with the brass casings holding up well to repeated reloading (for those who reload).
I’ve observed minimal signs of wear and tear on the brass casings, and the bullets maintain their shape and integrity. Cleaning the rifle after using these rounds is straightforward, as the smokeless powder burns cleanly, leaving less residue compared to traditional black powder loads. I simply run a bore snake through the barrel a couple of times and wipe down the action, and that’s it!
Compared to my previous experiences with other .38-55 Winchester ammunition, the HSM rounds outperform in terms of both accuracy and consistency. I’ve had no issues with squib loads or misfires. They have truly exceeded my expectations, especially considering the price point.
Breaking Down the Features of **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off**
Specifications
- Manufacturer: HSM Ammunition
- Caliber: .38-55 Winchester
- Bullet Weight: 240 grain
- Bullet Type: Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
- Cartridge Case Material: Brass
- Number of Rounds: 20 per box
- Muzzle Velocity: 1325 ft/s
- Primer Style: Centerfire
- Application: Target, Cowboy Action Shooting
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The 240-grain bullet weight is a sweet spot for the .38-55 Winchester, providing ample energy for target shooting and hunting small game. The Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) design ensures reliable feeding in lever-action rifles and enhances accuracy at moderate ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition excels in its designated role. It delivers consistent accuracy, reliable feeding, and manageable recoil, making it ideal for cowboy action shooting and recreational target practice. The ammunition’s smokeless powder formulation also contributes to a cleaner shooting experience compared to black powder alternatives.
One notable strength is the consistent muzzle velocity, which contributes to predictable bullet trajectory and improved accuracy. The flat point design of the bullet is effective for transferring energy to the target, making it a suitable choice for hunting small game, although I personally use it primarily for target practice. A minor weakness might be that some shooters who prefer higher velocities for longer-range shooting could find the 1325 ft/s a bit limiting.
It absolutely meets my expectations. Given the reasonable price, HSM has provided an excellent option for cowboy action shooting.
Design & Ergonomics
The HSM ammunition features a straightforward and functional design. The brass casings are well-formed, and the bullets are consistently seated, contributing to reliable feeding and smooth cycling. The weight of the rounds feels balanced in the hand, and the overall build quality is evident in the consistent performance.
The rounds are easy to load into the magazine of my Henry rifle, and the manageable recoil ensures a comfortable shooting experience, even during extended sessions. There is virtually no learning curve associated with the product since it is standard ammunition.
Durability & Maintenance
The HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition is designed to withstand typical shooting conditions. The brass casings are durable enough to be reloaded multiple times, and the bullets maintain their shape and integrity during handling and shooting. Stored properly in a cool, dry place, this ammunition should have a long shelf life.
The smokeless powder formulation minimizes fouling, making cleaning the firearm relatively easy. I anticipate that this ammunition will remain reliable and effective for many years with proper storage and care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition is primarily designed for use in .38-55 Winchester rifles and doesn’t require any additional accessories or modifications. However, it is compatible with a variety of lever-action rifles chambered in this caliber, allowing shooters to choose the firearm that best suits their preferences. Reloaders can purchase dies to reload the brass.
For those interested in customizing their shooting experience, aftermarket sights and scopes can be added to compatible rifles to enhance accuracy and target acquisition. Many cowboy action shooters customize their rifles with different grips, levers, and other cosmetic upgrades to reflect their personal style.
Pros and Cons of **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off**
Pros
- Consistent Accuracy: Delivers reliable and predictable results at various distances.
- Reliable Feeding: The RNFP design ensures smooth cycling in lever-action rifles.
- Manageable Recoil: Provides a comfortable shooting experience, even for extended sessions.
- Clean Burning: The smokeless powder formulation minimizes fouling and simplifies cleaning.
- Good Value: Offers a compelling combination of performance and affordability, especially with the 34% Off discount.
Cons
- Muzzle Velocity: The 1325 ft/s might be limiting for shooters looking for long-range performance.
- Limited Availability: Depending on the retailer, availability may be inconsistent.
Who Should Buy **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off**?
This ammunition is perfect for cowboy action shooting enthusiasts, recreational target shooters, and hunters seeking a reliable and accurate .38-55 Winchester load. It is also well-suited for individuals who appreciate the historical aspect of the cartridge and want to experience the feel of classic black powder loads with the convenience of smokeless powder. Shooters with lever-action rifles chambered in .38-55 will find this ammunition to be a dependable and enjoyable choice.
Those who should skip this product would be shooters looking for high-velocity, long-range ammunition or those who do not own a firearm chambered in .38-55 Winchester. Reloaders who prefer a different bullet weight or type might also find this ammunition less appealing.
Must-have accessories include a quality lever-action rifle chambered in .38-55 Winchester, appropriate eye and ear protection, and a reliable cleaning kit. Reloading dies would also be beneficial for those who wish to reload the brass casings.
Conclusion on **HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP)
HSM-38-55-1-N 34% Off**
Overall, the HSM 38551N Cowboy Action 38-55 Win 240 Gr Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) ammunition is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, accurate, and enjoyable shooting experience with the .38-55 Winchester cartridge. Its consistent performance, manageable recoil, and clean-burning formulation make it a standout option for cowboy action shooting, target practice, and small game hunting.
The price is certainly justified, especially considering the quality and consistency of the ammunition. The 34% Off discount makes it an even more attractive proposition.
I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience with a classic cartridge. Whether you’re a seasoned cowboy action shooter or a recreational enthusiast, the HSM 38551N Cowboy Action ammunition is sure to deliver. Grab a box (or several) and experience the thrill of the Old West with the reliability of modern ammunition.