First Impressions of Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion
The Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion promises a radical departure from traditional bullet design, aiming for controlled, hydraulic expansion in vital areas. The manufacturer, Lehigh Defense, has built a reputation for innovative bullet technology, and these bullets are specifically designed for optimal performance with the 300 HAM’R cartridge. I was intrigued by the claim of consistent 99% weight retention and a significantly larger wound channel compared to conventional jacketed bullets.
My quest for the ideal 300 HAM’R projectile for hunting medium game in dense brush led me to these. I needed a bullet that would deliver devastating terminal performance, even with less-than-perfect shot placement. I had previously used standard cup-and-core bullets, experiencing inconsistent expansion and penetration, especially when encountering bone.
Upon unboxing, the bullets exhibited a flawless, uniform construction. Their sharply defined petals and sleek, polymer tips inspire confidence. Compared to the Hornady 110 grain V-MAX and the Barnes 110 grain Black Tip, the Lehigh Defense bullets present a more specialized, almost surgical appearance. I ultimately chose the Lehigh Defense bullets because of their unique hydraulic expansion design, which seemed perfectly suited to my hunting needs.
I was initially skeptical, given the reliance on hydraulic energy for expansion, but the potential for massive, consistent wound channels was undeniably exciting. If the Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion performs as advertised, it could redefine terminal ballistics in the 300 HAM’R platform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy and velocity consistency. I loaded the bullets using Hodgdon CFE BLK powder and CCI small rifle primers, carefully following the manufacturer’s recommended load data. The initial results were impressive.
The bullets grouped tightly at 100 yards, averaging around 0.75 MOA out of my AR-15 pistol with an 8.5-inch barrel. Chronograph readings confirmed consistent velocities, averaging 2550 fps, with minimal deviation. I experienced no feeding or extraction issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions, the Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion continued to deliver exceptional accuracy and reliability. I also conducted wet media testing using water jugs to simulate tissue, confirming the advertised expansion characteristics. The bullets consistently produced four large, uniform petals, creating devastating wound cavities.
After a few months of use and careful storage, the bullets showed no signs of degradation or corrosion. Maintaining the bullets is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning and inspection before loading. These bullets outperform any standard bullet I’ve used in similar conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion
Specifications
- Caliber: .30
- Weight: 115 grain
- Diameter: 0.308 mm
- Bullet Type: Tipped Maximum Expansion
- G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.266
- Recommended Cartridge: 300 HAM’R
These specifications are significant. The lighter 115-grain weight allows for higher velocities in the 300 HAM’R, maximizing energy transfer at shorter ranges.
Performance & Functionality
The Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion excels in its designed role: creating massive, consistent wound channels through hydraulic expansion. Its strength lies in its controlled expansion, which translates to significant tissue damage and rapid incapacitation. The bullet’s primary limitation is its dependence on fluid mediums for expansion.
The bullets consistently deliver impressive accuracy, reliable feeding, and devastating terminal performance within their intended range. However, dry media penetration is limited due to the bullet’s design.
Design & Ergonomics
The Lehigh Defense bullets are meticulously crafted with a focus on achieving controlled, consistent expansion. The polymer tip aids in feeding and initiates expansion upon impact with fluid. The overall build quality is excellent.
The streamlined design and uniform weight distribution contribute to the bullet’s excellent accuracy. There is no specific learning curve associated with handling these bullets.
Durability & Maintenance
The all-copper construction ensures excellent durability and resistance to corrosion. With proper storage and handling, these bullets should maintain their performance characteristics for years. The bullets are exceptionally easy to maintain.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion doesn’t require any specific accessories other than standard reloading components. While there are no direct “customization” options for the bullet itself, reloaders can experiment with different powders and loads to optimize performance for their specific firearm. They are highly compatible with common reloading equipment and dies.
Pros and Cons of Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion
Pros
- Creates exceptionally large and consistent wound channels.
- Achieves 99% weight retention, ensuring deep penetration.
- Offers outstanding accuracy in the 300 HAM’R platform.
- Maintains consistent velocity and reliable feeding.
- The controlled expansion minimizes over-penetration.
Cons
- Relies on hydraulic energy for expansion, limiting performance against dry mediums.
- The higher price point compared to traditional jacketed bullets.
Who Should Buy Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion?
These bullets are perfect for hunters using the 300 HAM’R cartridge, particularly those targeting medium game in environments where quick, humane kills are essential. They are ideal for scenarios where shot placement may be less than perfect, and maximum terminal performance is paramount. Hunters prioritizing controlled expansion and significant tissue damage will find these bullets invaluable.
Hunters primarily targeting varmints or engaging in long-range shooting, where extreme accuracy and flat trajectories are the main focus, might want to explore other bullet options. Individuals seeking budget-friendly reloading components should consider alternatives to these premium bullets.
No specific must-have accessories are needed, although a high-quality chronograph can be helpful for fine-tuning loads. A reliable reloading press and accurate powder scale are essential.
Conclusion on Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion
The Lehigh Defense Rifle Bullets, .30 Caliber, 115 Grain, Tipped Maximum Expansion is a premium projectile engineered for maximum terminal performance within specific parameters. Its unique hydraulic expansion design delivers consistent, devastating wound channels and reliable incapacitation. The bullets are expensive, but their performance justifies the cost.
I would unequivocally recommend these bullets to 300 HAM’R shooters seeking the ultimate in terminal ballistics for hunting medium game. If you value controlled expansion, consistent performance, and ethical, humane kills, then invest in these bullets.