Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail Review

First Impressions of Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail

The Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail, represent Barnes’s foray into the competitive shooting world. As a seasoned handloader always chasing that perfect sub-MOA group, I was intrigued by the promise of match-grade performance at a competitive price point. The 6mm Creedmoor has taken the precision shooting world by storm, and a readily available, accurate bullet is always welcome.

For years, I’ve relied on heavier projectiles for my 6mm Creedmoor, primarily in the 105-115 grain range, for long-range engagements. However, I needed a lighter bullet for practicing wind calls at shorter distances and introducing new shooters to the caliber. A lighter bullet offers reduced recoil and a flatter trajectory at closer ranges, making it an ideal training tool.

Upon receiving the box, I immediately noticed the clean, consistent appearance of the bullets. The boat tail design looked precisely formed, and the overall finish was impressive, a critical indicator of consistent ballistic performance. My initial impression was certainly positive, fueled by the promise of Barnes quality in a more accessible package.

Compared to Sierra MatchKing 69 grain and Hornady ELD Match 68 grain bullets, the Barnes Match Burners seemed to offer a similar profile, yet at a slightly lower cost. I chose the Barnes offering because I’ve had positive experiences with their hunting bullets and wanted to see if that same level of quality translated to their match-grade line. The price point was also a significant factor, as it allowed for more extensive testing without breaking the bank.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The bullets looked the part of a match-grade projectile, and I was eager to get to the range to see if they lived up to the hype. If they performed as well as they looked, I was ready to add these to my regular reloading rotation.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing ground for the Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail was my local 100-yard range. I prepared several loads using Hodgdon H4350, a popular and reliable powder for the 6mm Creedmoor, and carefully measured each charge to ensure consistency. Conditions were mild with a slight crosswind, providing a reasonable but not overly challenging environment.

The first few groups were encouraging, with several shots clustering within an inch at 100 yards. The Barnes bullets seemed to stabilize quickly, and recoil was noticeably lighter compared to my heavier loads. This lighter recoil made it easier to spot my impacts and adjust my aim for subsequent shots.

I did encounter a slight issue with seating depth during the initial loading process; the bullets seemed a bit more sensitive to variations in case neck tension than other projectiles I’ve used. After adjusting my seating die, however, this problem disappeared.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent range sessions, the Barnes Match Burners have proven to be a reliable and consistent performer. I’ve put roughly 500 rounds downrange using these bullets, experimenting with different powder charges and seating depths to refine my load. They consistently deliver sub-MOA accuracy from my custom-built rifle.

I have noticed minimal signs of wear and tear on the bullets themselves, even after repeated handling and reloading. The bullet jackets seem robust, and the boat tail design has held its shape well. Cleaning my rifle after shooting these bullets has been straightforward, with no unusual fouling or residue.

Compared to my previous experiences with heavier, high-BC bullets, the Barnes Match Burners offer a significant advantage in terms of recoil management and cost. While they might not be the ideal choice for extreme long-range shooting beyond 800 yards, their performance at shorter distances is excellent. For training, practice, and introducing new shooters to the 6mm Creedmoor, they are a clear winner.

Breaking Down the Features of Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Barnes brings their reputation for quality and innovation to the match bullet market. The fact that they are USA-made is also a great plus for many shooters.
• Gun Type: Specifically designed for rifles, optimizing the bullet’s ballistic performance. This ensures these bullets function within their intended parameters.
• Bullet Type: Boat Tail (BT) bullets feature a tapered base, reducing drag and improving ballistic coefficient. This design is crucial for maintaining velocity and accuracy at longer ranges.
• Bullet Weight: At 68 grain, these are relatively light bullets for the 6mm Creedmoor, making them suitable for faster velocities and reduced recoil. The lighter weight makes them ideal for short to mid-range target shooting.
• Projectile Caliber: .243 Caliber bullets are standard for the 6mm Creedmoor cartridge. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of rifles chambered in this popular caliber.
• Diameter: The 0.243-inch diameter is critical for proper rifling engagement and accuracy. Exacting tolerances ensure a proper seal, leading to improved shot-to-shot consistency.
• G7 Ballistic Coefficient: A G7 BC of 0.267 indicates a relatively aerodynamic shape for a bullet of this weight. This means it will resist wind drift and maintain velocity better than bullets with lower BC values.
• Sectional Density: The 0.165 sectional density provides insight into the bullet’s penetration capability. This is less critical for target shooting but can be a factor when considering varmint hunting applications.
• Core Material: Lead core provides a balance of weight, density, and affordability. Lead allows for consistent bullet forming and reliable performance.
• Jacket Material: Lead jacket encases the lead core, providing structural integrity and facilitating rifling engagement. The consistent jacket thickness ensures uniform expansion (if used for hunting) and consistent accuracy.
• Condition: New bullets ensure consistent performance and reliable ignition. This is essential for achieving accurate and repeatable results.
• Bullet Quantity: Each box contains 100 bullets, providing ample supply for reloading and testing. This quantity allows for comprehensive load development and extended practice sessions.
• Length: A length of 0.842 inches contributes to the bullet’s overall stability and ballistic performance. This measurement is critical for calculating twist rate requirements and optimizing accuracy.
• Country of Origin: Proudly made in the USA, reflecting Barnes’s commitment to quality and American manufacturing. This resonates with shooters who prefer to support domestic production.

Performance & Functionality

The Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail perform exceptionally well at their intended purpose: providing accurate and consistent results for target shooting and competition. Their accuracy at 100-300 yards is outstanding, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups with proper load development. While not specifically designed for hunting, their potential use for varmint control should not be overlooked.

The primary strength of these bullets lies in their consistent manufacturing and predictable ballistic performance. They are easy to load and relatively forgiving in terms of powder charge variations. One area for potential improvement would be to publish more comprehensive load data specific to these bullets.

The Barnes Match Burners meet and even slightly exceed expectations for a budget-friendly match bullet. They deliver accuracy comparable to more expensive options, making them an excellent value for the price.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Barnes Match Burner is simple yet effective. The boat tail design and consistent jacket thickness contribute to its aerodynamic properties and accuracy. The bullets are easy to handle during the reloading process, and their uniform shape ensures consistent seating depth.

The bullets are user-friendly, requiring no special tools or techniques for loading. Experienced handloaders will appreciate their consistency, while novice reloaders will find them relatively easy to work with.

Durability & Maintenance

The Barnes Match Burner bullets are designed to withstand the stresses of firing and reloading. Their robust jacket and consistent construction suggest they will last for many years with proper storage.

Minimal maintenance is required beyond standard cleaning of the rifle after shooting. There are no special handling requirements for these bullets.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail do not come with any specific accessories, as they are components for handloading. However, they are compatible with a wide range of 6mm Creedmoor rifles and reloading equipment.

These bullets can be customized with different powder charges, primers, and seating depths to optimize performance for a specific rifle. They are also compatible with various bullet seating dies and case preparation tools.

Pros and Cons of Barnes Match Burner Rifle Bullets, 6mm Creedmoor, 68 grain, Boat Tail