Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24 Review

Let’s Dive into Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24

Black powder hunting holds a special place in my heart. It connects me to a simpler, more challenging time, requiring patience, skill, and the right equipment. That’s why I was so intrigued by the Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24.

I’ve been muzzleloader hunting for over a decade and I was looking for a bullet that offered both consistent accuracy and devastating terminal performance on whitetail deer. I wanted a projectile that could handle varying ranges and still deliver a clean, ethical kill.

Upon receiving the box of Barnes bullets, my initial impression was positive. The bullets were cleanly manufactured, and the included sabots appeared robust. They felt substantial in hand, hinting at the potential for deep penetration and reliable expansion.

I considered other popular muzzleloader bullets like the Hornady SST and the PowerBelt AeroLite. However, I chose the Barnes Expander MZ due to Barnes’s reputation for all-copper construction and controlled expansion. I’ve always appreciated the clean kills and lack of lead fouling that all-copper bullets provide. My first thought was “these look promising”.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first range session with the Barnes Expander MZ was at my local outdoor range on a crisp autumn morning. The air was still, providing ideal conditions for load development and accuracy testing. I started with a moderate powder charge of 90 grains of Triple Seven, a popular black powder substitute.

The bullets loaded smoothly and consistently, thanks to the snug fit of the sabots. The initial shots grouped surprisingly well at 50 yards, indicating good potential. After adjusting my powder charge to 100 grains, the groups tightened even further, with most shots landing within a 2-inch circle at 100 yards.

I experienced no issues during this first outing. The bullets consistently performed as expected. I was impressed by the relative ease of loading and the consistent accuracy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of dedicated range time and a successful deer season, I can confidently say that the Barnes Expander MZ has proven to be a reliable performer. I put roughly 50 rounds through my muzzleloader with these bullets.

There were no signs of significant wear or tear on the bullets or sabots. Cleaning my muzzleloader after each session was straightforward. The all-copper construction of the bullets significantly reduced fouling compared to lead-core projectiles. This translates to easier cleaning and more consistent accuracy over multiple shots.

In comparison to my previous experiences with lead-core bullets, the Barnes Expander MZ offers superior penetration and reduced meat damage. I recovered one bullet from a deer I harvested, and it exhibited textbook expansion, with sharp copper petals and significant weight retention. It undoubtedly outperforms the other lead-core bullets I have used.

Breaking Down the Features of Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24

Specifications

The Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24 are specifically designed for .50 caliber muzzleloaders. They feature a 250-grain all-copper bullet. Each box contains 24 bullets and sabots.

The bullet’s sectional density is 0.211, which contributes to its excellent penetration capabilities. Its ballistic coefficient is 0.207. These parameters influence the bullet’s trajectory and resistance to wind drift. The lead-free construction is a significant plus, making it legal in areas with lead restrictions and contributing to a cleaner shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Barnes Expander MZ bullets are designed for exceptional accuracy and terminal performance. Their all-copper construction ensures controlled expansion and deep penetration, even at lower muzzleloader velocities.

I found these bullets to be incredibly accurate out to 150 yards, making them suitable for a wide range of hunting scenarios. The bullet’s ability to expand to twice its original diameter creates devastating wound channels, resulting in quick and ethical kills. The only area for potential improvement is the ballistic coefficient. A slightly higher BC would provide a flatter trajectory at longer ranges. Overall, these bullets exceeded my expectations in both accuracy and terminal performance.

Design & Ergonomics

The Barnes Expander MZ bullets are designed for easy loading and consistent performance in a variety of muzzleloaders. The sabots are specifically engineered to provide a tight seal in the bore, ensuring efficient powder ignition and consistent velocities.

The all-copper bullet is both durable and environmentally friendly. The bullet’s weight and shape are optimized for maximum energy transfer on impact. There’s no learning curve associated with using these bullets. They are straightforward to load and shoot.

Durability & Maintenance

The all-copper construction of the Barnes Expander MZ bullets ensures excellent durability. Unlike lead-core bullets, they are less prone to deformation during loading and firing, leading to more consistent accuracy.

The lead-free design also reduces fouling in the barrel. This minimizes the need for aggressive cleaning. The bullet is designed to last for many years, provided it’s stored in a dry and cool environment.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barnes Expander MZ bullets are designed to be used with standard .50 caliber muzzleloaders. They do not require any specialized accessories or modifications.

However, optimizing your powder charge and choosing the appropriate scope can enhance the bullet’s performance. These bullets are compatible with a wide range of muzzleloader scopes and powder types. The ability to fine-tune the load to match your specific rifle is a significant advantage.

Pros and Cons of Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24

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Who Should Buy Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24?

The Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24 are perfect for muzzleloader hunters who prioritize accuracy, terminal performance, and ethical hunting practices. They are also an excellent choice for hunters in areas with lead restrictions.

Hunters primarily targeting game beyond 150 yards or those seeking the absolute cheapest ammunition might want to explore other options. However, the performance and reliability of the Barnes Expander MZ justify the investment for most serious muzzleloader hunters. A quality rangefinder would be a must-have accessory to ensure accurate shot placement at varying distances.

Conclusion on Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24

The Barnes Bullets 30577 Expander MZ 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250 GR 24 are a top-tier muzzleloader bullet that delivers exceptional performance in the field. The price is justified by the outstanding accuracy, terminal ballistics, and lead-free construction.

I would highly recommend these bullets to any muzzleloader hunter looking for a reliable and ethical hunting solution. If you’re serious about muzzleloader hunting and demand the best, the Barnes Expander MZ is worth every penny. Invest in a box, head to the range, and experience the Barnes difference for yourself. You won’t be disappointed.