Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet Review

Let’s Dive into Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet

For any serious shooter, the choice of ammunition components is paramount. The Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet offers a compelling blend of affordability and consistent performance. These bullets are designed for high-volume shooting scenarios, making them a favorite among reloaders like myself.

My quest for reliable and cost-effective 9mm projectiles led me to explore these Speer bullets. Reloading is a passion and a necessity, given the amount of rounds I put downrange each year. I was looking for a bullet that would feed reliably, provide acceptable accuracy for practice, and wouldn’t break the bank.

Upon opening the box, I immediately appreciated the clean and consistent appearance of the bullets. The copper plating looked uniform, and the bullets were neatly organized within the packaging. The weight felt consistent from bullet to bullet, a critical factor for accurate reloading.

Compared to some other budget options, such as cast lead bullets or cheaper FMJ projectiles, the Speer CPRN bullets seemed to strike a good balance between price and quality. I’ve used some extremely budget-friendly bullets in the past, and the inconsistent sizing and frequent leading in the barrel made them more trouble than they were worth. These looked like a step up. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Speer CPRN bullets was my local outdoor shooting range. I loaded up a batch using my standard 9mm recipe with a moderate charge of Hodgdon CFE Pistol powder. I was testing them in my Glock 19 and a custom 1911-style 9mm.

The first few magazines fed flawlessly in both firearms. There were no issues with chambering or extraction. The bullets performed admirably, even on a slightly windy day.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Speer CPRN bullets have continued to impress. I’ve now reloaded approximately 1000 rounds using these projectiles, and the consistency has been remarkable. Fouling has been minimal, and accuracy has remained consistent.

I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear or degradation in performance. The copper plating has held up well during the reloading process and through firing, minimizing lead exposure. These outperform the cheap, unplated lead bullets I used to use in terms of cleanliness and ease of cleaning the firearm afterward.

Breaking Down the Features of Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet

Specifications

The Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet boasts several key specifications. These bullets are .355 caliber, weigh 115 grains, and feature a round nose profile. The copper plating is designed to encapsulate the lead core, reducing airborne lead and minimizing fouling in the barrel.

• Bullet Type: Round Nose (RN) – Offers reliable feeding in most pistol platforms.
• Bullet Weight: 115 grain – A common and versatile weight for 9mm cartridges.
• Projectile Caliber: .355 Caliber – Standard diameter for 9mm Luger.
• Fabric/Material: Copper – Plating helps reduce lead exposure and barrel fouling.
• Sectional Density: 0.13 – Impacts penetration and ballistic coefficient.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the bullet’s performance. The round nose profile ensures smooth feeding, while the copper plating minimizes lead exposure. The 115-grain weight is a sweet spot for many 9mm pistols, providing a good balance of recoil and accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Speer CPRN bullets perform admirably in their intended role as range projectiles. Accuracy is more than adequate for practice and recreational shooting. I’ve consistently achieved groupings of around 2-3 inches at 25 yards with my Glock 19 using iron sights.

The consistent weight and dimensions of these bullets contribute to reliable performance. I have not experienced any squib loads or other malfunctions attributable to the bullets themselves. These bullets exceeded my expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The round nose design of the Speer bullets is a classic profile for a reason. It promotes reliable feeding in a wide variety of pistols. The copper plating is uniform and well-adhered to the lead core, preventing separation during firing.

The bullets are easy to handle during the reloading process. I have not encountered any issues with excessive lead dust or other contaminants. The Speer CPRN bullet is an exceptionally well-designed product.

Durability & Maintenance

The copper plating on these bullets enhances their durability. They hold up well to the stresses of reloading and firing. I expect these bullets to provide consistent performance over a long period.

Cleaning my firearms after using these bullets has been relatively straightforward. The copper plating minimizes lead fouling, making cleaning easier than with unplated lead bullets. A quick bore snake run after a range session is usually all that is needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet is primarily designed for reloading. It is not a complete cartridge. The beauty of reloading is the customization itself.

Reloaders can tailor their ammunition to specific needs by adjusting powder charges, primers, and seating depths. This allows for fine-tuning accuracy and recoil characteristics. They are compatible with all standard 9mm reloading dies.

Pros and Cons of Speer Copper Plated Round Nose CPRN .355 115 Grain Pistol Bullet