First Impressions of Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is not just another bullet; it’s a meticulously engineered cartridge designed for magnum performance in a lightweight package. Introduced in 2022, the .338 WBY RPM (Rebated Precision Magnum) was crafted to maximize the potential of Weatherby’s Mark V 6 Lug action. This ammunition aims to deliver exceptional knockdown power for North American big game, all while being chambered in a rifle light enough for backcountry hunts.
Having spent years in the field, I’ve always been on the hunt for ammunition that balances power with manageable recoil, especially for longer treks where every ounce counts. I needed a cartridge that could deliver a flat trajectory for accurate long-range shots on elk and moose, while also minimizing the shoulder-punishing recoil often associated with magnum calibers. The promise of the Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition to offer both in a lightweight platform immediately piqued my interest.
Upon receiving the ammunition, the first thing I noticed was the clean, polished brass casing and the distinct polymer tip of the Barnes TTSX bullet. The cartridges felt solid and well-constructed, exuding a sense of quality. Compared to similar offerings like the Hornady Precision Hunter .338 Win Mag or the Federal Premium Trophy Copper .300 Win Mag, the Weatherby ammunition stands out with its lighter 185-grain bullet, promising a flatter trajectory and reduced recoil. I chose this over others because I was specifically looking for a lighter magnum option that could be paired with my Weatherby Mark V Backcountry rifle.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The specifications looked promising, but the true test would be in the field. I was excited to see if this ammunition could live up to its claims of magnum performance without the magnum recoil.
Real-World Testing: Putting Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition was a local shooting range, followed by a controlled hunt in the Montana backcountry. At the range, I focused on accuracy at 100, 200, and 300 yards. The weather was mild and clear, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the ammunition’s ballistic performance.
The initial shots were surprisingly pleasant. The recoil was noticeably less than other .338 caliber rounds I’ve used, and the muzzle blast was manageable. After familiarizing myself with the rounds, I noticed that the cartridge consistently grouped sub-MOA at 100 yards out of my rifle. The Barnes TTSX bullets seemed to stabilize quickly, delivering consistent and accurate performance.
There were no immediate issues or surprises during this first use. The cartridges fed smoothly, extracted cleanly, and showed no signs of pressure issues.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a week-long hunting trip, the Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition has proven to be exceptionally reliable. I’ve fired approximately 100 rounds of this ammunition, and every round has performed flawlessly. There have been no misfires, failures to eject, or any other malfunctions.
The ammunition has held up well in varying conditions, from warm, dry range days to cold, wet mornings in the mountains. The brass casings show no signs of corrosion or degradation. Maintenance is minimal; simply wiping down the rifle after each use is sufficient.
Compared to my previous experiences with heavier .338 caliber rounds, the Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition significantly outperforms them in terms of recoil management and flat trajectory. The 185-grain bullet delivers plenty of kinetic energy on target, while the reduced recoil allows for faster follow-up shots. I successfully harvested a mature bull elk at 350 yards with a single shot, a testament to the ammunition’s accuracy and terminal performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off
Specifications
Caliber: .338 Weatherby Rebated Precision Magnum. This relatively new cartridge design maximizes efficiency in a short-action rifle, offering magnum performance in a more compact platform.
Bullet Type: Barnes TTSX (Tipped Triple-Shock X). The Barnes TTSX is a solid copper bullet with a polymer tip designed for rapid expansion and deep penetration.
Bullet Weight: 185 grain. This lighter bullet weight contributes to a flatter trajectory and reduced recoil compared to heavier .338 caliber options.
Cartridge Case Material: Brass. Brass cases ensure reliable feeding and extraction, and can be reloaded for cost savings and customization.
Muzzle Velocity: 3100 ft/s. The high muzzle velocity contributes to a flatter trajectory, extending the effective range of the cartridge.
Muzzle Energy: 3947 ft-lbs. This high energy level ensures sufficient knockdown power for large game animals at reasonable distances.
Application: Big Game, Hunting. Specifically designed for hunting large game animals such as elk, moose, and bear.
Primer Style: Centerfire. Centerfire primers are highly reliable and provide consistent ignition.
These specifications matter because they translate directly into real-world performance. The Barnes TTSX bullet’s rapid expansion ensures maximum energy transfer on impact, resulting in quick and humane kills. The high muzzle velocity and energy provide a flat trajectory and sufficient knockdown power for ethical long-range shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition excels in its primary role: delivering accurate, ethical, and effective kills on big game. The ammunition’s consistent performance, combined with the Barnes TTSX bullet’s exceptional terminal ballistics, make it a top choice for serious hunters.
The strengths lie in its manageable recoil, flat trajectory, and devastating terminal performance. The only minor weakness is the price, as premium ammunition always comes at a premium cost. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, delivering on its promise of magnum performance in a manageable package.
Design & Ergonomics
The ammunition itself is designed for optimal performance and reliability. The brass cases are clean and well-formed, ensuring smooth feeding and extraction. The Barnes TTSX bullet is precisely seated and crimped, ensuring consistent performance.
The ammunition is inherently user-friendly; simply load it into your rifle and shoot. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is designed for long-term storage and use. When stored properly in a cool, dry place, the ammunition should last for many years without degradation.
Maintenance is minimal, but it’s important to inspect the ammunition for any signs of corrosion or damage before loading it into your rifle. The brass cases can be reloaded, extending the life of the ammunition and reducing costs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition doesn’t require any specific accessories, but pairing it with a high-quality rifle and optic is essential to maximize its potential. Many reloaders customize their loads for specific rifles. This ammunition is compatible with most .338 WBY RPM rifles.
Pros and Cons of Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off
Pros
- Excellent accuracy: Consistently groups sub-MOA, providing confidence in long-range shots.
- Manageable recoil: Lighter bullet weight and efficient cartridge design reduce recoil compared to other .338 options, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
- Devastating terminal performance: The Barnes TTSX bullet expands rapidly and penetrates deeply, ensuring quick and ethical kills.
- High velocity: Flatter trajectory that extends the effective range and reduces holdover at longer distances.
- Reliable: Consistent ignition and flawless feeding and extraction.
Cons
- Price: Premium ammunition comes at a premium price, which may be a limiting factor for some shooters.
- Availability: The .338 WBY RPM is a relatively new cartridge, so ammunition availability may be limited in some areas.
Who Should Buy Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off?
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is perfect for:
- Big game hunters: Specifically designed for ethical and effective kills on large game animals such as elk, moose, and bear.
- Backcountry hunters: The lighter rifle and manageable recoil make it ideal for long treks in challenging terrain.
- Hunters seeking a flatter trajectory: The high velocity and ballistic coefficient of the Barnes TTSX bullet provide a flatter trajectory for more accurate long-range shots.
Who should skip this product?
- Budget-conscious shooters: The premium price may be prohibitive for those looking for a more affordable option.
- Hunters who prefer heavier bullets: Those who prioritize maximum kinetic energy over a flatter trajectory may prefer a heavier .338 caliber round.
Must-have accessories or modifications?
- High-quality rifle scope: A reliable and accurate scope is essential for maximizing the ammunition’s long-range potential.
- Recoil pad: While the recoil is manageable, a good recoil pad can further reduce felt recoil for increased comfort and accuracy.
Conclusion on Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition B338185TTSX 14% Off
The Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is an exceptional cartridge that delivers on its promise of magnum performance in a manageable package. Its accuracy, terminal performance, and manageable recoil make it a top choice for big game hunters seeking a reliable and effective round.
The price is undoubtedly a factor, but the performance justifies the investment for serious hunters who demand the best. I would personally recommend this ammunition to anyone looking for a .338 caliber round that balances power with shootability. If you’re chasing elk in the mountains or pursuing moose in the backcountry, the Weatherby Select Plus Barnes TTSX .338 WBY RPM 185 Grain PT Brass Cased Rifle Ammunition is an excellent choice that won’t let you down. Grab a box and experience the difference for yourself!