Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB Review

First Impressions of Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB

The .380 ACP, while often debated for its stopping power, remains a popular choice for concealed carry due to its compact pistol options. Choosing the right projectile for reloading this caliber is crucial for both accuracy and reliability. Enter the Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB, a bullet designed for consistent performance in a range of .380 pistols.

I’ve been reloading for over a decade, focusing on achieving both cost savings and tailored performance. My need was to find a reliable, accurate, and cost-effective bullet for my wife’s .380 ACP pistol, primarily used for target practice and occasional carry.

My initial impression upon receiving the package was positive. The bullets were neatly organized, and the plating appeared consistent across the batch. They seemed well-made and uniform, which is critical for consistent reloading.

I considered several other options before settling on these. Xtreme Bullets offered similar plated bullets, but Berry’s Manufacturing has a long-standing reputation for quality. I also looked at some jacketed hollow points for defensive rounds, but for range practice, the cost was prohibitive.

My initial excitement centered on the potential for developing an accurate and reliable load without breaking the bank. I was hoping for a bullet that fed well, produced consistent groupings, and offered a clean shooting experience. I wasn’t disappointed.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground was my local shooting range, an outdoor facility offering distances from 7 to 25 yards. I tested these bullets in two different .380 pistols: a Glock 42 and a Ruger LCP Max. Both guns are commonly used for concealed carry.

The weather was typical for a summer afternoon: sunny, humid, and around 85 degrees Fahrenheit. The Berry’s Manufacturing bullets performed admirably, even with slightly sweaty hands from the humidity. I had no feeding issues with either pistol.

The initial loading process was straightforward, with the Berry’s Manufacturing bullets seating properly in the cases. The only adjustment was reducing the powder charge slightly to accommodate the plated construction, following Berry’s Manufacturing’s recommendations. They recommend you treat their bullets like lead bullets when determining your powder charge.

After the first 50 rounds, I was impressed by the consistency and lack of any noticeable leading in the barrels. This was a significant advantage over some of the cast lead bullets I had experimented with previously.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, I’ve put several hundred rounds of these bullets through both pistols. The Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets have proven to be remarkably consistent and reliable. I have not experienced a single failure to feed or significant deviation in accuracy.

Durability has been excellent; the plating holds up well to the crimping process and shows no signs of separating during firing. Minimal cleaning is required after each range session, further demonstrating the quality of the plating.

Compared to my previous experiences with cast lead bullets, these Berry’s Manufacturing bullets are a clear winner. They offer superior cleanliness, more consistent accuracy, and reduced barrel fouling. These bullets also cost less than jacketed bullets.

Breaking Down the Features of Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB

Specifications

• Bullet Type: Flat Base (FB). This design helps with stability and accurate seating in the case.
• Projectile Caliber: .356 Caliber. This is the standard diameter for .380 ACP cartridges.
• Bullet Weight: 100 grain. This is a common weight for .380 ACP, offering a good balance of recoil and energy.
• Bullet Quantity: 250 bullets per package. This allows for a reasonable amount of reloading without a huge upfront investment.

These specifications are crucial for ensuring proper functioning in .380 ACP pistols. The correct caliber ensures the bullet will properly engage the rifling of the barrel. The flat base contributes to consistent seating depth, which greatly influences accuracy and pressure.

Performance & Functionality

The Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets perform exceptionally well for target practice. They are accurate and consistent at typical self-defense distances.

The primary strength lies in their consistent weight and dimensions, which translates to consistent groupings. The only minor weakness is that plated bullets are not suitable for high-pressure loads, limiting their use for maximum power applications.

They meet and exceed my expectations for a target practice bullet. They are accurate, reliable, and easy to load.

Design & Ergonomics

The bullets are well-made with a consistent plating thickness. They are easy to handle and seat in the case.

The round nose flat base (RNFB) profile contributes to smooth feeding in various .380 ACP pistol designs. The bullet shape is easy to work with, and there is little need to worry about deformities.

Durability & Maintenance

The plating is durable and resists deformation during the reloading process. This translates to a longer lifespan for the barrel and easier cleaning.

Maintaining the barrel after using these bullets is straightforward. A standard cleaning rod and solvent are sufficient to remove any residue.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets do not require any specific accessories beyond standard reloading equipment. The bullet is compatible with common .380 ACP reloading dies.

You can adjust the powder charge to fine-tune the load to your specific pistol, but always stay within safe reloading guidelines. The plated bullets also perform well with various types of primers and brass.

Pros and Cons of Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB

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Who Should Buy Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB?

The Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB are perfect for:

• Target shooters who want a cost-effective and accurate bullet for practice.
• Reloaders who prioritize cleanliness and ease of use.
• Concealed carry permit holders who want to develop reliable practice loads.

Those who should skip this product:

• Hunters who require expanding bullets for ethical kills.
• Reloaders seeking to develop maximum power loads.

Must-have accessories or modifications:

• High-quality reloading dies specifically designed for .380 ACP.
• A reliable powder scale for accurate powder charges.

Conclusion on Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB

In summary, the Berry’s Manufacturing Preferred Plated Pistol Bullets .380 cal .356in 100 gr RNFB offer an excellent balance of performance, reliability, and affordability. These bullets are a solid choice for reloaders looking to create consistent and cost-effective practice ammunition.

The price of $49.99 for 250 bullets is more than justified by the quality and performance. Given their consistency, cleanliness, and ease of reloading, I wholeheartedly recommend them.

If you are a .380 ACP shooter looking to save money and improve your accuracy, then give these bullets a try. Start reloading and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own reliable ammunition.