Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets Review

Let’s Talk About Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets

The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets are a relatively new offering in the precision .22LR reloading market from Barnes. These 52-grain boat tail bullets are designed for competitive shooters and target enthusiasts seeking economical precision. They promise enhanced velocities and flatter trajectories compared to standard .22LR ammunition, making them an intriguing option for reloaders wanting to fine-tune their rimfire accuracy.

For years, I’ve struggled to find affordable .22LR projectiles that consistently deliver sub-MOA performance from my custom Volquartsen rifle. Bulk-packed .22 rounds simply didn’t cut it, and match-grade ammunition was prohibitively expensive for frequent practice. I was searching for a balance: a bullet that wouldn’t break the bank but still offered the consistency and aerodynamic advantages necessary for long-range rimfire shooting.

Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the uniform appearance of the Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets. Each bullet exhibited a clean boat tail and consistent dimensions, suggesting tight manufacturing tolerances. The lead felt dense and uniform, free from visible imperfections.

Compared to the readily available bulk .22LR projectiles, the Barnes bullets immediately stood out. The boat tail design is a clear departure from the typical flat-based .22 rounds, hinting at improved ballistic performance. Compared to high-end match ammunition like Lapua or Eley, the Barnes bullets are noticeably less expensive, making them a potentially attractive alternative for high-volume shooting. My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic, hoping these bullets could bridge the gap between affordability and accuracy.


Real-World Testing: Putting Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I tested them in my Volquartsen Custom 10/22 rifle, known for its exceptional accuracy, at distances of 50 and 100 yards. Conditions were calm with minimal wind, offering a fair testing environment.

The bullets were easy to seat and crimp using my standard reloading setup for .22LR. I observed consistent chambering and extraction. The velocity was noticeably higher than standard .22LR rounds, as evidenced by the sharper report and flatter trajectory. After the first 50 rounds, I did notice a slight build-up of lead residue in the barrel, more so than with some premium coated .22LR ammunition.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets have proven to be consistently accurate. I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 50 yards and near MOA groups at 100 yards. Durability has been excellent; I have yet to experience any issues with bullet integrity.

Cleaning requires a bit more attention due to the lead build-up. A good bore solvent and brush are essential after each shooting session. These bullets have exceeded my expectations, providing match-grade performance at a fraction of the cost.

Breaking Down the Features of Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets

Specifications

  • Caliber: .22 Caliber. The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets are designed for use in any .22LR rifle with a bore diameter of 0.224 inches.
  • Weight: 52 grain. This bullet weight is heavier than typical .22LR rounds, offering improved ballistic coefficient and wind resistance.
  • Bullet Type: Boat Tail (BT). The boat tail design reduces drag, resulting in higher velocities and flatter trajectories.
  • Diameter: 0.224 in. The precise diameter ensures a proper fit in .22LR rifle barrels for optimal accuracy.
  • G7 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.224. This value indicates the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance, crucial for long-range accuracy.
  • Sectional Density: 0.148. This metric reflects the bullet’s penetration capability relative to its weight and diameter.
  • Core Material: Lead. The lead core provides the necessary weight and density for stable flight.
  • Jacket Material: Lead. The lead jacket ensures proper engagement with the rifling and consistent expansion.
  • Length: 0.705 in. The length is optimized for stable flight and consistent feeding.
  • Bullet Quantity: 100. The bullets are conveniently packaged in quantities of 100 for easy reloading.
  • Country of Origin: USA. Proudly made in the USA.

These specifications translate to a bullet designed for long-range accuracy in .22LR rifles. The boat tail design and heavier weight combine to minimize wind drift and maintain velocity downrange. Reloaders can fine-tune their loads to achieve optimal performance in their specific rifles, pushing the boundaries of .22LR accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets excel in accuracy and consistent performance. They consistently deliver tight groupings at both 50 and 100 yards, even in challenging wind conditions. The boat tail design significantly reduces wind drift compared to standard flat-based .22LR bullets.

The main strength is the improved ballistic performance at longer ranges. A potential weakness is the lead fouling which necessitates diligent cleaning. Overall, these bullets exceed expectations for their price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets exhibit a simple, functional design. The lead construction and boat tail shape contribute to their ballistic performance. The bullets are easy to handle and load using standard reloading equipment.

The design is purely utilitarian, prioritizing performance over aesthetics. There is no real learning curve; any experienced reloader can easily work with these bullets.

Durability & Maintenance

These bullets, being lead, are inherently durable in their intended use. They are designed to be fired, not reused, and they perform admirably in that role. Maintenance primarily involves thorough cleaning of the rifle barrel after use due to lead fouling.

Proper bore cleaning ensures optimal accuracy and extends the life of the barrel. The bullets themselves require no special maintenance.

Accessories and Customization Options

Since these are bullets intended for reloading, the primary customization lies in load development. Varying powder charges and seating depths can fine-tune accuracy in specific rifles. While there aren’t accessories for the bullets, they are compatible with standard .22LR reloading dies and equipment.

They readily accept any standard .22LR reloading components and tools. The lack of specific accessories is not a drawback but rather a reflection of their intended use within the broader reloading ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets

Pros

  • Exceptional Accuracy: Delivers sub-MOA groups at 50 yards and near MOA at 100 yards.
  • Improved Ballistics: The boat tail design reduces drag and wind drift, increasing accuracy at longer ranges.
  • Economical Precision: Offers match-grade performance at a fraction of the cost of premium .22LR ammunition.
  • Consistent Performance: Provides consistent velocities and trajectories, essential for competitive shooting.
  • Reloading Versatility: Allows reloaders to fine-tune loads for optimal accuracy in their specific rifles.

Cons

  • Lead Fouling: Requires more frequent and thorough barrel cleaning due to lead build-up.
  • Reloading Required: Not a loaded cartridge; requires reloading equipment and expertise.


Who Should Buy Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets?

The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets are perfect for competitive shooters and serious target enthusiasts who reload their own ammunition. These bullets are also a good fit for those seeking to maximize the accuracy of their .22LR rifles without breaking the bank. This product will benefit anyone who enjoys experimenting with load development and optimizing their rimfire performance.

These are not for casual plinkers who prefer the convenience of pre-loaded ammunition. Those without reloading equipment or experience should avoid this product.

A quality .22LR reloading die set and a reliable powder scale are must-have accessories. Experimenting with different powders and seating depths is also recommended for optimal performance.

Conclusion on Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets

The Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets offer a compelling combination of accuracy, affordability, and ballistic performance. The boat tail design and consistent manufacturing make them a viable alternative to expensive match-grade ammunition. While they do require diligent barrel cleaning due to lead fouling, the performance gains are well worth the effort for serious shooters.

The price is justified by the accuracy and consistency they provide. I would personally recommend these bullets to any .22LR rifle enthusiast looking to enhance their long-range accuracy without emptying their wallet.

If you’re ready to take your rimfire shooting to the next level, give the Barnes Match Burner .22 Rifle Bullets a try. You might be surprised at how much performance you can squeeze out of your .22LR rifle.

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