Let’s Talk About Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point
The Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point are designed for hunters seeking controlled expansion and deep penetration on big game. Hornady, a trusted name in ammunition, engineered these bullets with their signature InterLock ring to ensure the core and jacket stay together upon impact.
My quest for a reliable .35 caliber bullet for my Marlin 336 led me to these. I was specifically looking for something that would provide consistent expansion and penetration on whitetail deer at moderate ranges.
The bullets arrived in Hornady’s standard packaging, a simple cardboard box holding 100 projectiles. Picking one up, I immediately noticed the uniform shape and clean spire point; they felt solid and well-constructed. I was pleased with the apparent quality, a crucial factor when trusting a bullet to perform ethically in the field.
Compared to Sierra Pro Hunter bullets in a similar weight class, the Hornady InterLock boasts the InterLock ring, designed for better weight retention. I also considered Remington Core-Lokt, but the Hornady had better user reviews related to consistent expansion at varying velocities.
My first impression was excitement; they looked like they could deliver on their promise of controlled expansion and deep penetration. The bullets have a classic design, instilling confidence for my upcoming deer season.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested these bullets at my local shooting range, loading them into my hand-loads for my Marlin 336. The conditions were typical for an autumn day in Pennsylvania: cool and slightly damp.
The bullets were easy to seat, crimp, and load into my rifle. I quickly found a load that grouped well at 100 yards, demonstrating good accuracy for a lever-action rifle.
The biggest surprise was how consistent the point of impact was compared to my previous load. My past attempts with other projectiles left me frustrated.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full deer season using the Hornady InterLock, I can confidently say they are a reliable performer. I harvested two whitetail deer, both with clean, ethical kills.
The bullets held up well upon impact, exhibiting the controlled expansion and good weight retention that Hornady advertises. Cleaning my rifle was standard procedure, with no unusual fouling or residue. My previous projectile choices were very messy in this regard.
Compared to my past experiences with other bullets, the Hornady InterLock performed exceptionally well. I’ve found a bullet I can trust for years to come.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point
Specifications
Caliber: .35 Caliber (.358 diameter). This is a standard size for cartridges like the .35 Remington and .358 Winchester.
The .358 diameter ensures proper fit and function within the intended firearm, crucial for accuracy and safety.Weight: 200 grain. This weight is suitable for medium to large game.
A 200-grain bullet provides a balance between velocity, penetration, and energy transfer for effective terminal performance.Bullet Type: Spire Point (SP). This bullet shape offers a good balance of ballistic coefficient and expansion.
The Spire Point design initiates reliable expansion upon impact, creating a large wound cavity.Sectional Density: 0.223. This figure indicates the bullet’s potential for penetration.
A sectional density of 0.223 suggests good penetration capabilities, especially on medium-sized game like deer.Bullet Quantity: 100 Bullet. This is a standard quantity for reloading components.
100 bullets allow for ample load development and practice before hunting season.Fabric/Material: Copper. Copper is a common bullet jacket material, known for its malleability and ability to engage rifling.
The copper jacket ensures proper obturation in the barrel and reliable expansion upon impact.InterLock Ring: This is Hornady’s signature feature, mechanically locking the core and jacket together.
The InterLock Ring prevents core-jacket separation, leading to better weight retention, deeper penetration, and a larger wound channel.Cannelure: A groove around the bullet body for crimping the case mouth.
The cannelure ensures a secure crimp, preventing bullet setback during feeding and enhancing accuracy.Tapered Jacket: The jacket thickness is precisely controlled for expansion at all velocities.
The Tapered Jacket ensures consistent expansion across a wide range of impact velocities, making it effective at various ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point performs exceptionally well as a hunting bullet. The controlled expansion and deep penetration reliably put down game.
The InterLock Ring works as advertised, keeping the core and jacket together even after hitting bone. However, the spire point can deform slightly in the magazine of lever-action rifles under heavy recoil, which can marginally affect accuracy at longer ranges.
Overall, the bullet exceeds expectations in its intended role as a reliable hunting projectile. It performs better than other cup-and-core bullets I’ve used in the past.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with consistent dimensions and a uniform shape. The bullets are easy to handle and seat during reloading.
The Spire Point design is classic and effective, although perhaps not as aerodynamic as some more modern bullet shapes. The bullets are easy to load.
Durability & Maintenance
When loaded correctly, the bullets are durable and can withstand the rigors of hunting. No maintenance is required for the bullets themselves, only for the firearms using them.
Accessories and Customization Options
These bullets are primarily intended for reloading and can be paired with various powders, primers, and cases. There are no specific accessories designed solely for this bullet.
The .358 diameter means they are compatible with any firearm chambered in a .35 caliber cartridge that uses .358 diameter bullets. Reloading manuals offer a variety of load data using different components.
Pros and Cons of Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point
Pros
- Excellent controlled expansion due to the InterLock Ring.
- Deep penetration ensures ethical kills on big game.
- Consistent accuracy when properly loaded.
- Reasonable price compared to premium hunting bullets.
- Reliable performance on whitetail deer and similar game.
Cons
- Spire point can deform slightly in lever-action rifle magazines.
- Not as aerodynamic as boat-tail designs, limiting long-range performance.
Who Should Buy Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point?
Perfect for hunters using .35 caliber rifles, particularly those hunting deer, black bear, and similar-sized game at moderate ranges. Reloaders who prioritize consistent expansion and penetration will appreciate the Hornady InterLock.
Hunters planning to shoot at extremely long ranges (beyond 300 yards) might want to consider bullets with a higher ballistic coefficient. Those who don’t reload won’t be able to use these components.
A quality reloading press, powder measure, and reloading manual are must-have accessories. A bullet seating die specifically for spire point bullets will help prevent deformation.
Conclusion on Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point
The Hornady InterLock Rifle Bullets, 35 Caliber, .358, 200 Grain, Spire Point are an excellent choice for hunters seeking a reliable and effective bullet. The InterLock Ring provides consistent expansion and deep penetration, resulting in ethical kills.
The price is justified by the performance and reliability offered. I would absolutely recommend these bullets to fellow hunters.
If you’re looking for a .35 caliber bullet that delivers consistent, controlled expansion and deep penetration, give the Hornady InterLock a try; you won’t be disappointed.