First Impressions of Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition
The .350 Legend cartridge has been making waves in the hunting world, and I was eager to see how the Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition would perform. Barnes is a name synonymous with quality and innovation in bullet technology, so my expectations were high. This all-copper bullet promises exceptional accuracy, reduced fouling, and enhanced velocity, making it a compelling choice for hunters seeking reliable performance.
My quest for the perfect .350 Legend ammunition stemmed from a recurring issue: inconsistent performance with lead-core bullets in my AR-15 pistol. I needed a projectile that offered deep penetration, consistent expansion, and minimal lead exposure during my wild hog hunts. The Barnes TSX seemed to be the answer.
Upon receiving the ammunition, I was immediately impressed with the packaging. The rounds were neatly organized in a sturdy box, reflecting the attention to detail that Barnes is known for. The bullets themselves looked pristine and well-formed, with a clean, consistent flat nose profile. They felt substantial in hand, inspiring confidence in their potential performance.
Compared to other .350 Legend ammunition I’ve used, like Winchester Deer Season XP and Federal Power-Shok, the Barnes TSX stood out due to its all-copper construction. While the Winchester and Federal rounds offer good performance for the price, their lead cores can sometimes lead to fragmentation and less predictable terminal ballistics. This made me choose Barnes for my hunting needs.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The reputation of Barnes and the apparent quality of the ammunition were encouraging. I was eager to head to the range and see if the Barnes TSX lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition at my local shooting range, using my AR-15 pistol with a 10.5-inch barrel and a 1-6x LPVO. The weather was clear and mild, around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze. I set up targets at 50 and 100 yards to evaluate accuracy.
The Barnes TSX performed admirably right out of the gate. I experienced no feeding issues, and the recoil felt manageable, similar to other .350 Legend rounds I’ve used. At 50 yards, I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups, with most shots clustering within an inch of the bullseye. This initial accuracy was impressive.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slightly tighter fit when loading the magazines. This could be due to the all-copper construction and the bullet’s overall length. However, this did not affect the feeding reliability during firing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Barnes TSX ammunition has proven to be incredibly reliable. I’ve put approximately 250 rounds through my AR-15 pistol. And there have been no malfunctions, misfires, or feeding problems.
The durability of the Barnes TSX is noteworthy. After cleaning my firearm, I’ve observed minimal copper fouling in the barrel, which is a common issue with some all-copper bullets. The reduced fouling makes cleaning easier and helps maintain consistent accuracy over extended shooting sessions.
Compared to my previous experiences with lead-core ammunition, the Barnes TSX offers superior performance in terms of both accuracy and terminal ballistics. The all-copper construction ensures deeper penetration and more consistent expansion, resulting in more humane and effective kills on game. It significantly outperforms other cheaper options.
Breaking Down the Features of Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition
Specifications
The Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition boasts several key specifications that contribute to its outstanding performance.
- Caliber: .350 Legend – This caliber is specifically designed for modern sporting rifles and offers a straight-walled cartridge option legal in many states for deer hunting.
- Bullet Weight: 170 grain – This weight provides an optimal balance of velocity, energy, and penetration for hunting medium-sized game.
- Bullet Type: TSX (Triple-Shock X) – The all-copper construction of the TSX bullet ensures deep penetration and consistent expansion without fragmentation.
- Flat Base (FB) – The flat base design contributes to stable flight and accuracy at typical hunting ranges.
- Projectile Caliber: .357 Caliber – This refers to the actual diameter of the bullet, which is slightly larger than the bore diameter to ensure a tight seal and optimal accuracy.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the bullet’s performance on target. The all-copper TSX design ensures reliable expansion and deep penetration, making it an ethical choice for hunting. The 170-grain weight provides a good balance of velocity and energy.
Performance & Functionality
The Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition excels in both accuracy and terminal performance. At the range, I consistently achieved sub-MOA groups at 50 yards. This accuracy translates to confident shot placement in the field.
The all-copper construction ensures consistent expansion, creating a large wound cavity and maximizing energy transfer to the target. This results in quick, humane kills. The only potential downside is the higher price point compared to lead-core ammunition.
The Barnes TSX ammunition exceeds my expectations in terms of both accuracy and terminal performance. I am impressed by its ability to deliver consistent results in various hunting scenarios. It will be my go-to round for the next hunting season.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition is exceptional. The all-copper bullets are precisely manufactured and visually inspected, reflecting Barnes’s commitment to quality. The consistent shape and weight of the bullets contribute to reliable feeding and accuracy.
The ammunition is user-friendly, with no special tools or techniques required for loading or firing. The flat base design simplifies reloading for those who handload.
Durability & Maintenance
The all-copper construction of the Barnes TSX bullets contributes to their durability and longevity. Unlike lead-core bullets, the TSX bullets are less prone to deformation or damage during handling or storage.
The reduced copper fouling in the barrel minimizes the need for frequent cleaning. Regular cleaning and maintenance, however, will ensure optimal performance and longevity of the firearm.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition does not require any specific accessories or modifications. However, for optimal accuracy, a high-quality optic and a well-maintained firearm are recommended.
The ammunition is compatible with standard .350 Legend magazines and AR-15 platforms. Some users may choose to use an adjustable gas block to fine-tune the firearm’s cycling for optimal performance with this ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition
Pros
- Exceptional Accuracy: Consistently delivers sub-MOA groups at 50 and 100 yards.
- Deep Penetration: All-copper construction ensures reliable penetration, even through tough hide and bone.
- Consistent Expansion: Creates a large wound cavity, maximizing energy transfer to the target.
- Reduced Fouling: Minimizes copper fouling in the barrel, simplifying cleaning and maintenance.
- Ethical Hunting: Promotes quick, humane kills on game animals.
Cons
- Higher Price Point: More expensive than lead-core ammunition.
- Slightly Tighter Magazine Fit: May require slightly more force to load magazines.
Who Should Buy Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition?
The Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition is perfect for hunters seeking reliable and ethical performance when pursuing medium-sized game such as deer and wild hogs. This ammunition is also well-suited for those who prioritize accuracy and consistent terminal ballistics.
This product might not be the best choice for budget-conscious shooters who primarily engage in target practice. Those seeking the cheapest possible ammunition for plinking may find other options more suitable.
A quality optic, a well-maintained firearm, and potentially an adjustable gas block for optimized cycling are must-have accessories or modifications.
Conclusion on Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition
The Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition is a top-tier choice for hunters seeking exceptional accuracy, reliable penetration, and ethical terminal performance. While the price is higher than lead-core alternatives, the benefits of all-copper construction, reduced fouling, and consistent expansion justify the investment.
The value proposition is clear: you get what you pay for. The consistent and reliable performance of the ammunition ensures confidence in the field, leading to more successful and ethical hunts.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Barnes TSX Bullet .350 Legend 170 Grain FN FB Pistol Ammunition to any hunter who demands the best possible performance from their .350 Legend firearm. Upgrade your hunting experience today and experience the Barnes difference.