First Impressions of Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB
The Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB bullets arrived, and I was immediately curious to see how they’d perform. Magnus is a name I’ve heard whispered in reloading circles, often associated with affordable yet consistent cast bullets. My own reloading bench is more than a hobby; it’s a science experiment, a quest for the perfect balance of power and precision, and these bullets looked like an interesting ingredient.
I’ve been working on developing a consistent and accurate load for my compact 9mm for both practice and self-defense training. Factory ammunition prices are rising, and I enjoy the control and customization reloading offers. I’d been struggling with leading issues using some cheaper cast bullets, a common problem, so the promise of minimal leading at up to 1200 FPS from these Magnus bullets was definitely appealing.
Upon opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the uniformity of the bullets. They were neatly arranged, clean, and free of excessive casting flaws – a good sign. The Flat Point Bevel Base (FPBB) design looked practical, promising good feeding in semi-automatic pistols and a decent ballistic coefficient for target shooting. Picking one up, the weight felt right; a consistent 100 grains is critical for predictable performance.
I considered other options, like coated lead bullets from Acme or precision-swaged bullets from Hornady. However, the price point of the Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB was a major factor, as was the alloy composition. I wanted a balance of cost-effectiveness and performance. These promised exactly that.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. They seemed well-made for cast lead, and the price was certainly right. I was excited to load them up and see how they performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB was at my local outdoor range. The weather was typical for early spring: cool, overcast, and with a light drizzle. I was primarily testing them in my Glock 19 (9mm) and a smaller .380 ACP pistol.
I started with a moderate load of powder, working my way up to near-maximum published data, carefully monitoring for pressure signs. Recoil felt manageable, and the bullets fed reliably in both platforms. I experienced no malfunctions related to the bullet profile. After the first 50 rounds through the 9mm, I inspected the barrel and was pleasantly surprised to find minimal leading compared to other cast bullets I’ve used.
There was one small issue during setup. The bullets were slightly undersized for my .380 ACP barrel, leading to slight gas cutting and decreased accuracy with that platform during this initial test.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a couple of months, I have a better sense of the Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB‘s performance. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds of my reloads using these bullets through my 9mm pistol. They have proven to be quite consistent.
Durability-wise, the bullets themselves hold up well during the reloading process. I haven’t noticed any significant deformation or damage while seating or crimping. The alloy seems to be as advertised, resisting deformation during firing in the 9mm, which is important for accuracy. Cleaning my 9mm barrel after a long session with these bullets is noticeably easier than with other cast lead bullets I’ve used. A bit of solvent and a few passes with a bore brush remove the light leading quickly.
These bullets are a solid step up from cheaper, softer lead bullets I’ve experimented with in the past. Their consistent weight and minimal leading have improved my accuracy and reduced cleaning time. In short, they’ve made my reloading process more enjoyable and more effective.
Breaking Down the Features of Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB
Specifications
The Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB boasts a few key specifications that dictate its performance. It is manufactured by Magnus from a virgin alloy comprised of 91% lead, 4% tin, and 5% antimony. This mix offers a balance of hardness and malleability.
The bullet type is a truncated cone, also known as a flat point, with a bevel base. The projectile caliber is .356 inches, making it suitable for both .380 ACP and 9mm Luger. Each package contains 500 bullets, providing a decent quantity for reloading sessions. The 100-grain weight is a standard for lighter 9mm loads, useful for reduced recoil and target practice.
These specifications are important because they directly impact accuracy, leading, and feeding reliability. The alloy hardness is crucial for preventing excessive leading, while the flat point design enhances energy transfer on impact. The consistent weight ensures uniform ballistics.
Performance & Functionality
The Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB performs admirably as a target and practice bullet in 9mm. In my testing, I consistently achieved groups of 2-3 inches at 25 yards from a rest with my Glock 19. The flat point design punches clean holes in paper targets, making scoring easy.
Its strength lies in its consistent weight, minimal leading, and reliable feeding. Its weakness is its less-than-ideal performance in the .380 ACP (in my specific firearm) due to a slightly undersized diameter. It’s important to slug your barrel to ensure proper bullet fit. Overall, for 9mm applications, it meets and often exceeds my expectations, especially considering the price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB is straightforward and functional. The bevel base aids in easy seating during reloading. The truncated cone shape feeds smoothly in most semi-automatic pistols.
The build quality is good for a cast lead bullet. The bullets are consistently shaped and sized, which is vital for accuracy. No excessive flashing or obvious imperfections are apparent.
Durability & Maintenance
As a lead bullet, the primary concern is leading, which can affect accuracy and require more frequent cleaning. However, the alloy used by Magnus seems to mitigate this issue effectively. These bullets should last indefinitely if stored properly in a cool, dry place.
Cleaning involves standard lead removal techniques, but due to the alloy, it requires less effort than with softer lead bullets. Proper lubrication during reloading helps further reduce leading.
Accessories and Customization Options
As bullets, the “accessories” are primarily related to the reloading process. These include cartridge cases, primers, and powder. These bullets readily accept standard 9mm and .380 ACP reloading dies.
No specific customization options exist for the bullets themselves, but reloaders can fine-tune powder charges to achieve desired velocities and accuracy. Experimentation with different primers and case brands can also influence performance.
Pros and Cons of Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB
Pros
- Cost-effective: Significantly cheaper than jacketed bullets, making practice sessions more affordable.
- Minimal Leading: The alloy reduces leading in 9mm barrels, simplifying cleaning.
- Consistent Weight: Ensures predictable ballistics and improved accuracy.
- Reliable Feeding: The truncated cone design promotes smooth feeding in semi-automatic pistols.
- Easy Reloading: The bevel base simplifies bullet seating and reduces the risk of damage.
Cons
- Undersized for some barrels:* May require slugging the barrel to confirm fitment and prevent gas cutting in some firearms.
- Not ideal for high-velocity applications:* Exceeding the recommended velocity range may lead to increased leading.
Who Should Buy Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB?
The Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB is perfect for reloaders seeking an affordable and consistent cast lead bullet for target practice and general range use in 9mm. It is also a good choice for those new to reloading who want a forgiving bullet that is easy to work with and doesn’t excessively foul the barrel.
Those shooting .380 ACP should carefully measure their barrel’s internal diameter to ensure compatibility. Shooters pursuing maximum velocity or using ported barrels may want to consider jacketed bullets to minimize leading.
A must-have accessory is a good quality bullet lubricant to further reduce leading and improve accuracy.
Conclusion on Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB
The Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB is a solid choice for reloaders seeking a cost-effective and reliable cast lead bullet for 9mm practice and target shooting. Its minimal leading, consistent weight, and reliable feeding make it a good performer. It makes for pleasant range days.
The price is certainly justified, especially considering the consistent quality and reduced cleaning requirements compared to other cast lead options.
I would personally recommend the Magnus .380/ 9mm .356in 100 gr FPBB to any reloader looking for a budget-friendly bullet that doesn’t compromise on quality or performance in their 9mm. Give them a try and experience the difference that consistent casting and a well-chosen alloy can make!