Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS Review

First Impressions of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS

Let’s talk big bore. Not figuratively, but literally with the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS. These aren’t your average plinking rounds; we’re dealing with .50 caliber projectiles intended for serious handgun applications, and Berry’s Manufacturing promises superior plating for cleaner shooting and enhanced accuracy. Having spent years reloading for everything from .223 to .45-70, the .50 caliber realm has always held a certain allure, a siren song of raw power and impressive performance.

My initial foray into .50 caliber handguns stemmed from a need to develop a potent, yet controllable, load for hog hunting in dense brush. I needed something with significant stopping power but without the punishing recoil of some of the heavier jacketed options. This quest led me down the path of plated bullets, and eventually, to the Berry’s Manufacturing option.

Upon receiving the package, I was immediately impressed by the uniform appearance of the bullets. The plating looked consistent and well-applied, promising good barrel contact and minimal fouling. The weight felt substantial in my hand, hinting at the kind of energy these projectiles would deliver downrange.

Compared to jacketed bullets from Hornady or Sierra, the Berry’s Manufacturing offering presents a significant cost savings, which is a huge consideration when loading high-volume rounds or experimenting with load development. I also considered some cast lead options, but the allure of reduced barrel leading with plated bullets tipped the scales in Berry’s Manufacturing’s favor. My first impression was definitely one of cautious optimism; these bullets looked the part, and the price was right, but the real test would come at the range.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS took place at my local outdoor range, a facility that allows for handloading and chronographing, essential for accurate load development. I loaded up several batches with varying powder charges, using a magnum primer and a medium-burning pistol powder, aiming for velocities within Berry’s Manufacturing’s specified 2000 fps limit. The weather was clear and relatively cool, ideal for consistent readings.

The first few rounds were eye-opening, to say the least. Recoil was stout but manageable, and the muzzle flash was impressive. I immediately appreciated the flat point design; it seemed to punch clean holes in the target. After adjusting my sights, I started to see some promising groupings at 25 yards, consistently holding within a 4-inch circle. There was no immediate evidence of leading in the barrel after the first few shots, a welcome sign.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, I’ve put hundreds of rounds of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS through my .500 S&W Magnum. The durability has been surprisingly good, with no issues of plating separation or deformation during loading or firing. Cleaning the barrel after a range session is noticeably easier compared to using cast lead bullets.

I’ve observed minimal signs of wear and tear on the bullets themselves after recovery from ballistic gel tests. The key to maximizing their lifespan and performance lies in careful load development and adherence to Berry’s Manufacturing’s velocity recommendations. They have consistently outperformed my initial expectations, proving to be a reliable and cost-effective option for .50 caliber handloading.

Breaking Down the Features of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS

Specifications

The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS feature a .500-inch diameter, making them suitable for .500 S&W Magnum and other compatible .50 caliber handguns. Each bullet weighs 300 grains, providing a balance of manageable recoil and substantial energy transfer. They feature a Plated Flat Point (PFP) design.

The plated construction is the key differentiator here. It offers a compromise between the affordability of lead bullets and the reduced fouling of jacketed bullets. According to Berry’s Manufacturing, these bullets can withstand velocities up to 2000 fps. This is crucial for achieving optimal performance and preventing the plating from separating from the lead core.

Performance & Functionality

These bullets perform admirably within their intended velocity range. They provide consistent accuracy and reliable expansion in ballistic gel tests. Accuracy is excellent for a plated bullet, easily capable of producing sub-2 inch groups at 25 yards with a well-tuned load.

A minor weakness is the velocity limitation; exceeding 2000 fps can lead to plating separation and reduced accuracy. The bullets definitely meet and exceed expectations for a plated bullet.

Design & Ergonomics

The flat point design enhances energy transfer and creates a larger wound channel, making them suitable for hunting applications. The plating is consistent and well-applied, contributing to smooth feeding and reliable performance. The rounded shoulder design also aids in smooth feeding and chambering.

The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS are surprisingly easy to work with; the consistent dimensions and smooth plating make them a joy to load. There is virtually no learning curve involved for experienced reloaders.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper load development and adherence to velocity limits, these bullets should last for numerous reloading cycles. The plating significantly reduces barrel fouling compared to cast lead bullets, resulting in easier cleaning and maintenance. Routine cleaning with a quality bore solvent is all that’s needed to maintain optimal performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

As bullets, these don’t directly accept accessories. However, they are compatible with a wide range of .500 S&W Magnum reloading dies and components. Experimentation with different powders, primers, and crimp settings can significantly influence accuracy and performance.

They work perfectly with standard .500 S&W Magnum load data. While not customizable in the traditional sense, the performance of these bullets can be tailored through careful load development.

Pros and Cons of Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS

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Who Should Buy Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS?

The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS are perfect for hunters looking for a cost-effective yet potent load for medium to large game at close ranges. They are also a great choice for recreational shooters who enjoy the power of the .500 S&W Magnum but want to minimize their reloading costs. They would benefit reloaders wanting to practice and develop their skills without breaking the bank.

This product isn’t ideally suited for shooters pushing for maximum velocities or engaging in long-range target shooting. Those applications demand the ruggedness and precision of jacketed bullets. A good chronograph is a must-have accessory to ensure you stay within the velocity limits.

Conclusion on Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS

The Berry’s Manufacturing Superior Plated Handgun Bullets .50 cal .500in 300 gr RS offer an excellent balance of affordability, accuracy, and performance. They are a great choice for reloaders seeking a cost-effective option for their .500 S&W Magnum or other compatible .50 caliber handguns. The price is absolutely justified, given the performance and cost savings compared to jacketed alternatives.

I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone looking for a reliable and accurate plated bullet for their .50 caliber handgun, provided they adhere to the specified velocity limits. Give them a try, and experience the power of the .50 caliber without emptying your wallet!