Let’s Dive into Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with over a decade of experience, I’ve seen a lot of muzzleloader projectiles come and go. But the Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets caught my eye because of their electroplated copper jacket and the promise of easy loading thanks to the Crush Rib Sabots. For a hunter seeking consistent performance and straightforward loading, these bullets present an intriguing option, especially considering their price point.
My interest in the Harvester Scorpion bullets stemmed from a frustrating experience during last year’s deer season. I struggled with inconsistent accuracy and difficult loading using a competitor’s sabot bullet. I needed a projectile that offered reliable expansion, consistent accuracy, and, crucially, easier loading for faster follow-up shots.
Upon unboxing the Harvester Scorpion bullets, my first impression was positive. The bullets felt solid and well-constructed. The copper plating appeared even and adequately adhered to the lead core. The Crush Rib Sabots looked innovative, and I was eager to test their claim of reduced loading friction. Compared to the Hornady Great Plains bullets I had been using, the Harvester Scorpions had a more modern design and the sabots seemed far less likely to split upon loading.
I was initially excited but cautiously optimistic. Muzzleloader projectiles can be finicky, and the proof is always in the field. However, the design and materials suggested a step up in performance from what I had experienced previously.
Real-World Testing: Putting Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Harvester Scorpion bullets at my local shooting range, preparing for the upcoming muzzleloader season. The weather was typical for late summer: hot and humid. The Scorpion bullets loaded significantly easier than my previous projectiles using the provided Crush Rib Sabots.
The ease of loading was immediately noticeable. I also achieved respectable groups at 100 yards right away, around 2-2.5 inches. I was very pleased with the consistency given the cheap price. There were no issues with seating the bullet properly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a couple of months, the Harvester Scorpion bullets continued to perform consistently. I put approximately 50 rounds downrange. There were no signs of degradation in performance.
The Crush Rib Sabots held up well, showing no signs of premature wear or cracking, even after repeated loading and firing. Cleaning my muzzleloader after using these bullets was also relatively straightforward; there was less plastic fouling compared to some other sabot designs I’ve used. Compared to my previous experiences with other muzzleloader bullets, the Harvester Scorpions instilled confidence in their reliability and consistency.
Breaking Down the Features of Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets
Specifications
* Manufacturer: Harvester**. This manufacturer is known for its affordability and reliability.
* Projectile Caliber: .50 Caliber**. This is the standard caliber for most modern muzzleloaders.
* Bullet Weight: 240 grain**. This weight provides a good balance of velocity and energy transfer for deer-sized game.
* Quantity: 12**. This package contains 12 bullets.
* Bullet Quantity: 12 Bullet**. Same as above.
* Number of Rounds: 12**. Again, 12 bullets are in the package.
* Height: 1 in**. The bullet height is 1 inch.
* .451 Funnel Point bullets are designed to expand rapidly upon impact. This creates a larger wound channel for quicker, cleaner kills.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the bullet’s performance in the field. The 240-grain weight is a sweet spot for deer hunting, providing adequate kinetic energy while maintaining a relatively flat trajectory. The .451 Funnel Point design ensures reliable expansion, which is crucial for ethical and effective hunts.
Performance & Functionality
The Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets perform admirably. Their accuracy is sufficient for hunting deer out to 150 yards, and the easy loading thanks to the Crush Rib Sabots is a significant advantage in the field. These bullets offer reliable expansion, ensuring ethical and effective kills.
One minor weakness is that they can be a bit more susceptible to wind drift compared to heavier bullets, but this is easily compensated for with proper shot placement. For their intended purpose, these bullets meet and even exceed expectations, especially considering their price.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is decent, especially for a budget-friendly option. The copper plating is consistent, and the lead core is well-formed. The Crush Rib Sabots are made of a durable polymer that resists cracking and splitting.
The bullets are user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to load and seat properly in the muzzleloader. The funnel point design aids in reliable expansion, ensuring that the bullet performs as intended upon impact.
Durability & Maintenance
These bullets are expected to last for years if stored properly in a cool, dry place. Maintenance is minimal. Cleaning the bore of your muzzleloader after shooting these bullets is essential to remove any plastic fouling and residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Harvester Scorpion bullets are designed to work with standard .50 caliber muzzleloaders and require no specific accessories or modifications. They are compatible with various types of muzzleloader propellants, including black powder substitutes like Blackhorn 209 and Triple Seven. While there aren’t customization options for the bullet itself, the user can experiment with different powder loads to fine-tune accuracy and performance.
Pros and Cons of Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets
Pros
- Significantly easier loading with Crush Rib Sabots than competitor offerings.
- Excellent expansion and take-down power due to the Funnel Point design.
- Very good accuracy for the price, sufficient for deer hunting out to 150 yards.
- Affordable price point makes them a great value for budget-conscious hunters.
- Consistent performance across multiple range sessions.
Cons
- Lighter bullet weight (240 grain) may be more susceptible to wind drift than heavier options.
- Copper plating, while functional, might not be as robust as a full copper jacket.
Who Should Buy Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets?
These bullets are perfect for deer hunters looking for an accurate, easy-loading, and affordable projectile. They are also a good choice for novice muzzleloader hunters who may struggle with the loading process. Seasoned hunters on a budget can also appreciate their value.
Hunters seeking maximum long-range accuracy or those hunting larger, tougher game like elk or moose may want to consider a heavier bullet with a more robust construction. For maximum long range accuracy, or hunting dangerous game, other bullets might be more suited.
A quality bullet starter is a must-have accessory to ensure proper seating of the bullet in the muzzleloader. Experimenting with different powder loads may also improve accuracy and consistency.
Conclusion on Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets
Overall, the Harvester Scorpion 50 Caliber 240 Grain .451 Funnel Point Muzzleloader Sabot Bullets are a solid choice for deer hunters looking for a reliable, accurate, and easy-loading option at an affordable price. The improved loading from the Crush Rib Sabots is an exceptional advantage. Their consistent performance and reliable expansion make them a great value.
The price is definitely justified, making these bullets a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a budget-friendly yet effective muzzleloader projectile. I would personally recommend these bullets to any deer hunter looking for a reliable and easy-to-use option without breaking the bank. If you’re looking to improve your muzzleloader hunting experience with a projectile that offers consistent performance and easy loading, the Harvester Scorpion bullets are definitely worth considering. Grab a pack and see for yourself!