First Impressions of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets
For over a decade, I’ve been immersed in the world of tactical gear, and I’ve seen countless advancements in ammunition technology. But the claims surrounding the Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets – promising deep penetration and a wound cavity exceeding that of expanding bullets – immediately piqued my interest. The monolithic copper construction and the unique Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) design suggested a departure from conventional self-defense rounds.
My primary need for ammunition revolves around personal defense, both for myself and my family. I needed a reliable .40 S&W round that offered consistent performance and maximized stopping power. The FTM design with its potential for creating a large wound cavity while maintaining penetration through barriers seemed like a promising solution to my requirements.
Upon receiving the Lehigh Defense bullets, I was immediately impressed by their appearance. The solid copper construction gives them a high-quality feel, and the FTM nose design is unlike anything I’ve seen before. Compared to standard hollow points, which rely on expansion, these bullets promised a different approach to energy transfer. I chose these rounds over traditional hollow points due to their advertised ability to penetrate barriers without compromising terminal performance.
My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The engineering behind the Lehigh Defense bullets seemed sound, but I knew the real test would come at the range and in simulated scenarios. The bold claims of superior wound cavities had to be validated. I was excited to finally take these rounds to the range and test their performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lehigh Defense rounds at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offered a variety of targets, including paper, ballistic gel, and simulated barriers made of drywall and plywood. I focused on evaluating accuracy, penetration, and the bullets’ behavior after passing through barriers.
The performance in dry conditions was impressive. The bullets were easy to load into magazines and cycled flawlessly through my Glock 22. There were no malfunctions or noticeable changes in recoil compared to standard 165-grain .40 S&W loads. After the first use, I did notice the bullets impacted slightly lower than my usual 165-grain rounds, requiring a minor sight adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent range sessions, the Lehigh Defense rounds continued to perform admirably. I used them in drills involving rapid firing and target transitions, and they never failed to feed or extract. The accuracy remained consistent, and I grew increasingly confident in their reliability.
Regarding durability, the solid copper construction showed no signs of deformation or fragmentation, even after impacting hard targets. The bullets maintained their shape and weight, contributing to consistent penetration. Cleaning my firearm after shooting these rounds was straightforward, with minimal copper fouling compared to some jacketed lead bullets I’ve used. Compared to my previous experience with various self-defense rounds, these bullets appeared to offer a compelling combination of accuracy, penetration, and barrier performance, exceeding my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets
Specifications
- Bullet Type: Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM). This unique design features radial flutes designed to create a dramatic increase in fluid pressure upon impact, resulting in an enhanced wound cavity.
- Caliber: .40 S&W, 10mm Auto. This ammunition can be used in pistols chambered in either .40 S&W or 10mm Auto, providing versatility.
- Bullet Weight: 115 grain. The lighter weight of the bullet translates to higher velocity and flatter trajectory compared to heavier bullets in the .40 S&W cartridge.
- Sectional Density: 0.103. A lower sectional density suggests that the bullet is designed to penetrate less than a bullet with a higher sectional density, but the FTM design compensates with its unique energy transfer mechanism.
- Core Material: Copper. The solid copper construction of the bullet ensures consistent weight retention and prevents fragmentation upon impact with barriers or bone.
- Projectile Caliber: .400 Caliber, .40 Caliber. Standard caliber for .40 S&W and 10mm Auto pistols.
- Bullet Quantity: 100 Bullet. Each purchase includes 100 individual bullets, allowing reloaders to create their own custom self-defense rounds.
- Fabric/Material: Copper. The selection of copper enables deep penetration and controlled expansion, maximizing stopping power.
- Manufacturer: Lehigh Defense. Known for innovative bullet designs and high-quality ammunition, Lehigh Defense aims to deliver superior performance.
These specifications are crucial for understanding the performance characteristics of the ammunition. The lighter weight and copper construction, combined with the FTM design, work together to achieve the desired balance of penetration and wound cavity size.
Performance & Functionality
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense bullets performed admirably across all aspects of my testing. Accuracy was excellent, with consistent groupings at various distances. Reliability was flawless, with no malfunctions encountered. The felt recoil was manageable and comparable to standard-weight .40 S&W rounds.
One of the biggest strengths is their ability to penetrate barriers without significant deviation or loss of velocity. This is a critical advantage in real-world self-defense scenarios. One potential weakness could be perceived as the lighter bullet weight, which some shooters may not prefer over heavier .40 S&W loads. Overall, these bullets met and often exceeded my expectations for self-defense ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The monolithic copper construction of the bullets contributes to their uniform weight and consistent performance. Their shape and dimensions are optimized for reliable feeding in semi-automatic pistols. The build quality is exceptional, with a smooth finish and precise dimensions.
I didn’t experience any learning curve associated with using these bullets. They loaded easily into magazines and performed reliably in my Glock 22. Their user-friendly design enhances their overall appeal.
Durability & Maintenance
The solid copper construction ensures a long lifespan for these bullets. I observed no signs of wear or deformation during testing. Maintenance involves only standard firearm cleaning procedures, and I noticed less copper fouling than with traditional jacketed lead bullets. These rounds are built to last and perform reliably for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lehigh Defense bullets are primarily designed for reloading purposes, allowing users to create their own custom self-defense rounds. While there aren’t specific accessories designed solely for these bullets, they are compatible with a wide range of reloading components. This flexibility makes them a great choice for reloaders seeking to optimize their self-defense ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets
Pros
- Superior barrier penetration compared to traditional hollow points.
- Exceptional accuracy and consistent performance.
- Monolithic copper construction prevents fragmentation and ensures deep penetration.
- Unique Fluid Transfer Monolithic (FTM) design creates a large wound cavity.
- Reliable feeding and cycling in semi-automatic pistols.
Cons
- Lighter bullet weight (115 grain) may not be preferred by all shooters.
- Price is higher compared to standard jacketed lead bullets.
Who Should Buy Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets?
These bullets are perfect for: Individuals seeking a reliable self-defense round with excellent barrier penetration and consistent performance. Law enforcement officers who require ammunition capable of penetrating windshields and other common barriers. Reloaders who want to create their own custom self-defense ammunition with premium components.
Those who might want to skip this product: Shooters who prefer heavier .40 S&W bullets for perceived recoil reduction or increased kinetic energy. Individuals on a very tight budget, as these bullets are priced higher than standard options.
Must-have accessories or modifications: High-quality reloading dies and equipment for consistent bullet seating and crimping. A reliable .40 S&W or 10mm Auto pistol with a well-maintained magazine.
Conclusion on Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets
The Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense .40 S&W 115 Grain Fluid Transfer Monolithic FTM Centerfire Pistol Bullets offer a compelling combination of performance and innovative design. Their ability to penetrate barriers while creating a significant wound cavity makes them a top contender for self-defense applications. While they come at a premium price, the performance justifies the investment for those prioritizing reliable stopping power.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone seeking the best possible self-defense ammunition for their .40 S&W or 10mm Auto pistol. If you value performance, reliability, and innovation, the Lehigh Defense rounds are a solid choice. Upgrade your defense – invest in Lehigh Defense Xtreme Defense today.