First Impressions of Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off
The Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is more than just a bullet; it’s a statement. Manufactured by Wilson Combat, a name synonymous with quality and precision in the firearms world, this ammunition promises to deliver devastating performance in the .458 HAM’R platform. Boasting a 325-grain Flex Tip Expanding (FTX) bullet, brass casing, and a design optimized for hunting and self-defense, it piqued my interest immediately.
As a seasoned outdoorsman and tactical gear specialist, I’ve learned that ammunition is often the weakest link in any rifle system. I needed a round that could reliably deliver stopping power on larger game and potentially serve a dual purpose for self-defense in bear country. The Wilson Combat round seemed to fit the bill.
Upon receiving the ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the brass casing. The rounds were clean, uniformly sized, and the flex tip of the bullet was perfectly formed, free from imperfections. Compared to some of the cheaper .458 SOCOM rounds I’ve experimented with in the past, the Wilson Combat ammunition exuded a premium feel.
While I considered alternatives like Barnes TSX rounds for their deep penetration, the FTX bullet’s promise of rapid expansion and devastating energy transfer ultimately swayed me. My first impression was one of excitement; this appeared to be precisely the kind of ammunition I had been searching for.
Real-World Testing: Putting Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, under controlled conditions. I wanted to establish a baseline for accuracy and felt recoil. I was using a Wilson Combat AR-15 chambered in .458 HAM’R, equipped with a quality optic.
The ammunition performed flawlessly, with no malfunctions or failures to feed. Felt recoil was significant, as expected from a .458 HAM’R, but manageable. The muzzle report was thunderous, a testament to the round’s potent power.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following months, I put the Wilson Combat ammunition through a more rigorous testing regime. This included accuracy testing at various distances and simulated hunting scenarios in diverse environments. I also wanted to see how the ammunition performed after being stored in less-than-ideal conditions.
After several hundred rounds, the ammunition has proven to be incredibly reliable. There were no issues with the ammunition failing to fire, even after being subjected to temperature fluctuations and moisture. I also found that the brass casing held up well for reloading purposes, with no signs of excessive wear and tear.
Breaking Down the Features of Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off
Specifications
- Caliber: .458 HAM’R – A potent cartridge designed for AR-15 platforms, delivering significant energy transfer.
- Bullet Weight: 325 grain – An optimal weight for balancing velocity and stopping power.
- Bullet Type: Polymer Tipped Flat Based (PTFB) – The FTX bullet design ensures rapid expansion upon impact.
- Cartridge Case Material: Nickel Plated Brass – Offers enhanced corrosion resistance and smoother feeding.
- Muzzle Velocity: 1950 ft/s – Provides a flat trajectory and effective range.
- Muzzle Energy: 2745 ft-lbs – Delivers devastating energy on target.
- Application: Hunting, Self Defense – Versatile ammunition suitable for various scenarios.
- Package Type: Box – Comes in a standard 20-round box.
- Primer Style: Centerfire – Ensures reliable ignition.
- Sectional Density: 0.221 – A good balance for penetration and expansion.
- G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.389 – Offers reasonable aerodynamic performance for a large-caliber bullet.
- Lead Free: No – Conventional lead core construction for maximum terminal performance.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the round’s overall performance and suitability for different tasks. The high muzzle energy and expanding bullet make it an effective choice for hunting medium to large game, while the brass casing and reliable primer contribute to consistent performance in semi-automatic rifles.
Performance & Functionality
The Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R ammunition performed admirably in all my tests. Accuracy was excellent, consistently producing sub-MOA groups at 100 yards from a supported position. The FTX bullet expanded reliably upon impact, creating a large wound cavity and maximizing energy transfer.
The ammunition’s strengths lie in its accuracy, stopping power, and reliability. The only minor weakness is the significant recoil, which may be a concern for inexperienced shooters. Overall, the ammunition exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition’s design is straightforward and functional. The brass casing is well-made and the bullet is precisely seated. While there’s not much to say about the ergonomics of ammunition, the smooth feeding and consistent performance indicate a well-designed product.
Durability & Maintenance
The Wilson Combat ammunition is inherently durable, thanks to the high-quality brass casing and robust bullet construction. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of field use and long-term storage. Maintenance is minimal; simply store the ammunition in a cool, dry place to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
This is ammunition, so accessories and customization options are limited to the rifle it’s being fired from. However, the round is compatible with any AR-15 chambered in .458 HAM’R and can be paired with various optics and accessories to enhance the rifle’s overall performance. The Wilson Combat rifles themselves are known for their quality and can be customized with different stocks, triggers, and other components.
Pros and Cons of Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off
Pros
- Exceptional Stopping Power: The 325-grain FTX bullet delivers devastating energy transfer, making it ideal for hunting and self-defense.
- Excellent Accuracy: Consistently produces sub-MOA groups, ensuring precise shot placement.
- High Reliability: The brass casing and reliable primer guarantee consistent performance in semi-automatic rifles.
- Quality Construction: Wilson Combat’s reputation for quality ensures a well-made and durable product.
- Versatile Application: Suitable for both hunting and self-defense scenarios.
Cons
- Significant Recoil: The .458 HAM’R cartridge produces substantial recoil, which may be a concern for some shooters.
- Price: The Wilson Combat ammunition is relatively expensive compared to other AR-15 ammunition options.
Who Should Buy Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off?
This ammunition is perfect for hunters seeking a powerful and accurate round for medium to large game. It’s also a great choice for individuals living in areas where they may need to defend themselves against large predators. The Wilson Combat ammunition is ideally suited for those who demand the highest levels of performance and reliability from their ammunition.
Those who are recoil-sensitive or on a tight budget may want to consider other options. For casual target shooting or plinking, there are more affordable alternatives available. New shooters might find the recoil challenging to manage, and should consider starting with a smaller caliber.
Must-have accessories include a quality optic to maximize accuracy and a recoil-reducing muzzle device to help mitigate the effects of the .458 HAM’R’s powerful recoil.
Conclusion on Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition A458H-325-FTX $6.20 Off
The Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R 325 Grain Flex Tip Expanding Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is a premium product that delivers exceptional performance in the .458 HAM’R platform. The combination of accuracy, stopping power, and reliability makes it an excellent choice for hunting and self-defense. While the price may be higher than other ammunition options, the quality and performance justify the cost.
I personally recommend this ammunition to anyone seeking the best possible performance from their .458 HAM’R rifle. If you need a round that can reliably deliver devastating stopping power and accuracy, the Wilson Combat X-Treme .458 HAM’R ammunition is an excellent choice. It’s an investment in your safety and success in the field. Don’t settle for anything less. Experience the Wilson Combat difference today.