Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet Review

Let’s Dive into Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet

The Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet is a classic choice for reloaders seeking affordability and consistent performance in target shooting and plinking applications. These bullets, manufactured by Speer, are designed to provide reliable feeding and accuracy without breaking the bank.

As a seasoned reloader, I was constantly searching for cost-effective components that didn’t compromise on quality. My primary goal was to develop accurate and reliable target loads for my 9mm handguns without the expense of jacketed bullets.

Unboxing the 500-count box, I was immediately struck by the consistent appearance of the bullets and the smooth, clean coating of the multi-layer lube system. The bullets felt well-formed and uniform, suggesting a high degree of quality control.

I considered using other lead bullets from different manufacturers, but I opted for Speer due to their reputation for consistency and the readily available load data. Furthermore, I trusted the Speer name, knowing they’ve been producing quality components for decades.

My initial impression was positive. I was excited to start developing some accurate and affordable target loads.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet at my local indoor shooting range using a variety of 9mm handguns. The goal was to evaluate their accuracy, feeding reliability, and the amount of leading they produced in my barrels.

These bullets performed admirably even when temperatures and humidity were less than ideal, with no discernible impact on accuracy or reliability. Feeding was smooth and consistent in all my test pistols, including a Glock 19, a Sig Sauer P320, and a 1911.

The bullets were easy to load into my cases and seemed to seat well, requiring minimal crimping. Initial groupings at 15 yards were promising, holding within a 3-inch circle. After the first 50 rounds, I noted some leading in the barrel of my Glock 19, but it was significantly less than I’ve experienced with other lead bullets.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several hundred rounds, the Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet continued to perform well. The accuracy remained consistent, and I experienced no malfunctions attributable to the bullets themselves.

Durability-wise, the bullets held up nicely during the reloading process, showing no signs of deformation or damage. Cleaning my barrels after shooting these bullets was relatively straightforward; the multi-layer lube system seemed to minimize leading, making the process less tedious.

Compared to my previous experience with cheaper, unlubricated lead bullets, the Speer bullets were a significant improvement. They offered better accuracy, less leading, and greater consistency overall.

Breaking Down the Features of Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet

Specifications

The Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet is designed for reloading 9mm Luger ammunition. The bullet diameter is .356 inches, and each bullet weighs 125 grains.

The bullet’s sectional density is 0.141, and it features a lead solid core and a lead solid tip. It ships in boxes of 500 bullets and is made of lead solid with a weight of 125 grains. These specifications are crucial for achieving consistent ballistic performance and reliable feeding in 9mm handguns.

Performance & Functionality

The Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet performs its job effectively as a target and plinking bullet. The round nose profile promotes smooth feeding in most 9mm pistols, and the consistent weight contributes to good accuracy.

While not designed for self-defense, these bullets offer a cost-effective way to practice and hone your shooting skills. The main strength is their affordability and consistent performance for target shooting; a minor weakness is the potential for leading in the barrel, which requires regular cleaning. The Speer bullets definitely meet my expectations for a reliable, cost-effective target bullet.

Design & Ergonomics

These bullets are cold-formed from lead and coated with Speer’s multi-layer lube system. This design helps to reduce friction and minimize leading in the barrel.

The round nose shape ensures smooth feeding, and the bullets are easy to handle during the reloading process. There isn’t a significant learning curve; even novice reloaders should find them easy to work with.

Durability & Maintenance

These bullets are durable enough to withstand the reloading process without deformation. However, their long-term durability depends on proper storage to prevent oxidation of the lead.

Maintenance mainly involves regular cleaning of the firearm barrel to remove any lead deposits. The multi-layer lube system helps in easy cleaning.

Accessories and Customization Options

These bullets do not require any specific accessories beyond standard reloading equipment like a press, dies, and powder. Customization is limited to adjusting the powder charge to achieve the desired velocity and recoil.

These bullets are generally compatible with standard 9mm load data and can be used with a variety of different powders and primers. It’s worth noting that the bullet is not designed for use with a gas check.

Pros and Cons of Speer Lead Handgun Bullet .356 125 Grain Lead Round Nose Pistol Bullet