First Impressions of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP
As a seasoned handloader with over a decade dedicated to perfecting my craft, I’m always on the lookout for components that balance performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness. The .45 ACP is a classic cartridge, a workhorse in both competition and defensive scenarios, and demands consistent components. I was particularly drawn to the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP because of their promise of reduced fouling and affordability. I’ve used jacketed bullets extensively, and while they offer excellent performance, the cost can add up quickly, especially for high-volume practice.
My usual load development involved using a standard jacketed hollow point, but I’ve been searching for a cheaper alternative for general range use. These Berry’s Manufacturing bullets seemed like the perfect solution, offering a plated design that should minimize lead exposure and reduce wear on my barrels. My goal was to find a consistent, accurate load for my 1911 that wouldn’t break the bank. I was hoping for good accuracy and smooth feeding.
Upon receiving the bullets, my initial impression was positive. The bullets arrived well-packaged, and the plating appeared uniform and consistent across the entire batch. They felt solid and well-made. Compared to cast lead bullets I’ve used in the past, these Berry’s Manufacturing bullets have a cleaner, more professional look.
I also considered using traditional lead bullets, but the added mess and potential for leading in my barrels steered me towards the plated option. I also considered some other plated bullets from Xtreme bullets. Ultimately, the reputation of Berry’s Manufacturing and the flat point design swayed my decision. My initial excitement was high, tempered only by the need to rigorously test their performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP was at my local outdoor range, known for its varying conditions. I loaded up several magazines with different powder charges, carefully staying within the recommended velocity limits of 1250 fps. I wanted to see how they performed in a variety of scenarios. The weather was mildly humid with a slight breeze.
The bullets fed smoothly into my 1911, and the first few rounds fired felt consistent. Accuracy at 15 yards was promising, with groupings hovering around 2 inches. However, as I increased the powder charge to approach the upper velocity limit, I noticed a slight decrease in accuracy.
After about 100 rounds, I inspected my barrel and was pleased to find minimal fouling. There were no noticeable signs of leading, a significant improvement compared to my experiences with unplated lead bullets. I did notice a slight copper residue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, I’ve put approximately 1000 rounds of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP through my 1911. They have proven to be remarkably consistent and reliable. My groupings at 25 yards, with my preferred load, consistently stay within 3 inches.
The plating has held up well, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. I inspect each round as part of my loading process. Cleaning my barrel after each range session is now a much simpler task, requiring less time and effort compared to when I used traditional lead bullets.
Compared to jacketed bullets, the Berry’s Manufacturing bullets offer comparable accuracy at shorter ranges, making them ideal for practice and target shooting. They are also significantly more affordable. While they may not be the top choice for long-range accuracy or hunting, they definitely fill a niche for cost-effective, reliable range ammunition.
Breaking Down the Features of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP
Specifications
The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP are designed for handloaders seeking a balance of performance and affordability. Berry’s Manufacturing employs a swaging and plating process to achieve consistent weight and dimensions. These bullets are re-struck for improved accuracy.
- Caliber: .452 inch. This is the standard diameter for .45 ACP ammunition.
- Weight: 185 grains. A lighter bullet for faster velocities and reduced recoil.
- Bullet Type: Flat Point. This design provides good accuracy and clean holes in paper targets.
- Construction: Plated Lead. Swaged lead core with a thick copper plating.
- Velocity Limit: 1250 fps. Exceeding this velocity may cause the plating to separate.
These specifications are important because they directly affect the bullet’s performance and suitability for various applications. The .452 caliber ensures proper chambering and barrel fit. The 185-grain weight offers a balance between recoil and velocity. The flat point design is ideal for target shooting and provides clean, easy-to-score holes.
Performance & Functionality
The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP perform admirably within their intended parameters. Accuracy is excellent at typical pistol ranges (up to 25 yards). Reliability is also very good.
- Accuracy: Consistent groupings at typical pistol ranges. Staying under 1250 fps is critical.
- Reliability: Feeds reliably in most 1911-style pistols. Proper crimping is essential.
- Usability: Easy to load with standard reloading equipment. Follow Berry’s Manufacturing‘s recommended loading data.
The main strength of these bullets is their affordability and reduced fouling compared to lead bullets. The main weakness is their velocity limitation. Exceeding the 1250 fps limit can lead to plating separation and decreased accuracy. They certainly meet my expectations for range ammunition.
Design & Ergonomics
The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP have a simple, functional design. The flat point profile is consistent and well-formed.
- Build Quality: The plating is uniform and appears durable. There are no visible imperfections in the bullets I received.
- Ergonomics: Easy to handle and load into cartridge cases. Standard reloading equipment is sufficient.
These bullets are user-friendly, even for novice handloaders. There is no steep learning curve involved in loading them.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper loading techniques and adherence to the velocity limits, the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP should provide long-lasting performance. The plating protects the lead core from deformation and reduces fouling.
- Lifespan: Expect consistent performance over thousands of rounds. Proper storage is essential to prevent oxidation.
- Maintenance: Minimal maintenance required. Clean the barrel regularly to remove any copper residue.
These bullets are relatively easy to maintain. However, excessive pressure may cause them to fail prematurely.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP do not require any specific accessories or modifications beyond standard reloading equipment. They are compatible with a wide range of .45 ACP reloading dies.
- Compatible Dies: Standard .45 ACP reloading dies. Proper crimping dies are crucial for reliable feeding.
- Powders: Compatible with a variety of pistol powders. Always consult Berry’s Manufacturing‘s reloading data and powder manufacturer’s data.
These bullets can be customized with different powder charges to achieve desired velocities and accuracy, within the specified limits. Always consult reloading manuals and adhere to safe reloading practices.
Pros and Cons of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP
Pros
- Affordable: Significantly cheaper than jacketed bullets, making them ideal for high-volume practice.
- Reduced Fouling: Plated design minimizes lead exposure and reduces barrel fouling compared to cast lead bullets.
- Good Accuracy: Provides consistent accuracy at typical pistol ranges (up to 25 yards).
- Easy to Load: Compatible with standard reloading equipment and easy to handle.
- Flat Point Design: Creates clean, easy-to-score holes in paper targets.
Cons
- Velocity Limitation: Must be kept below 1250 fps to prevent plating separation and accuracy degradation.
- Not Ideal for Hunting: The plated design is not suitable for hunting applications requiring deep penetration.
Who Should Buy Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP?
Perfect for: High-volume target shooters, recreational handloaders, and those seeking a cost-effective alternative to jacketed bullets for practice. These bullets are ideal for anyone who wants to reduce fouling and save money on their .45 ACP ammunition.
Who should skip this product? Those who need high-velocity ammunition for hunting or long-range shooting should opt for jacketed bullets. Also, those unwilling to adhere to the recommended velocity limits should avoid these bullets.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A quality crimping die is essential for ensuring reliable feeding and preventing bullet setback.
Conclusion on Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP
In summary, the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .45 cal .452in 185 gr FP are an excellent choice for reloaders seeking a balance of affordability, performance, and ease of use. They offer good accuracy, reduced fouling, and are compatible with standard reloading equipment.
The price is definitely justified. These bullets offer a significant cost savings compared to jacketed bullets without sacrificing too much in terms of performance.
I would personally recommend these bullets to any .45 ACP handloader looking for a cost-effective and reliable option for practice and target shooting. If you value accuracy, reduced fouling, and saving money, give Berry’s Manufacturing plated bullets a try. You won’t be disappointed!