First Impressions of Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper
I’ve seen a lot of innovation in ammunition over my decade-plus in the tactical and outdoor gear world. However, the claims made by Fort Scott Munitions about their Multi-Cannelure Projectile rifle bullets sparked my curiosity immediately. The promise of a solid copper, CNC-machined bullet designed to tumble upon impact (TUI), delivering devastating wound channels, is a bold one, and I wanted to see if it lived up to the hype.
My primary interest was driven by a need for a .308 round that offered consistent terminal ballistics, something I could rely on for both hunting and potential self-defense scenarios in the backcountry. I was looking for a round that could offer reliable performance on medium-sized game, as well as in situations where over-penetration was a significant concern.
Upon receiving the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper, my initial impression was one of quality. The bullets were meticulously machined, with a clean, consistent finish, reflecting the Fort Scott Munitions’ commitment to precision. They had a significant weight to them, despite the lighter grain compared to traditional lead-core .308 rounds.
I considered other options like the Barnes TTSX and Nosler AccuBond, known for their controlled expansion and weight retention. However, the Fort Scott Munitions’ unique TUI design set it apart. I chose it hoping for a more decisive, immediate stopping power, particularly in situations where precise shot placement might be compromised.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The unique design of the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper was definitely exciting, hinting at a potential game-changer in terminal ballistics, but the proof, as always, would be in the performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy and consistency at 100 yards. The weather was clear, with a slight crosswind, providing a reasonable, if not ideal, testing environment.
These bullets proved surprisingly accurate out of my custom AR-10 platform, even with the lighter grain weight. There was no initial need to significantly adjust my optic settings from the standard 168-grain match ammo I typically use.
The recoil felt slightly reduced compared to heavier .308 loads, which was a pleasant surprise, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. After the first few rounds, I didn’t encounter any malfunctions or feeding issues; the rounds cycled smoothly through my rifle’s action.
Initially, I was impressed with the accuracy and manageable recoil. However, I withheld judgment on the key performance claim – the TUI effect – until I could perform ballistic gel testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and simulating field conditions, the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper continued to perform reliably. I put approximately 200 rounds downrange with no malfunctions or failures to feed.
The solid copper construction showed no signs of deformation or damage during loading and firing. Cleaning was also straightforward, leaving minimal copper fouling in the barrel compared to some traditional copper-jacketed rounds.
Compared to my previous experience with standard lead-core ammunition, the Fort Scott Munitions rounds offered a notable advantage in terms of reduced lead exposure and easier cleaning. However, I still hadn’t validated the TUI performance, which remained the critical factor.
Breaking Down the Features of Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper
Specifications
The Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper boasts several key specifications. These bullets are .308 caliber, with a grain weight of 115, and are constructed from CNC-machined solid copper.
This unique construction leads to a non-lead, solid copper spun (SCS) bullet that is designed to tumble upon impact (TUI), a multi-patented feature of Fort Scott Munitions. Each bullet undergoes hourly quality control checks, ensuring match-grade ammunition, measured down to the ten-thousandths of an inch for consistent performance.
The lighter 115-grain weight allows for higher velocities and flatter trajectories compared to heavier .308 rounds, potentially increasing effective range. The solid copper construction eliminates lead exposure and ensures consistent weight retention, contributing to predictable terminal ballistics.
Performance & Functionality
The Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper performs well in terms of accuracy and reliability. They provide consistent groupings at various distances, and cycle reliably in semi-automatic rifles.
The primary strength of these bullets lies in their purported TUI effect. According to Fort Scott Munitions, this feature leads to devastating wound channels in soft tissue, exceeding the performance of traditional hollow points. A potential weakness, without third-party ballistic gel testing, is proving this unique design and if it functions as intended.
These bullets meet my expectations in terms of accuracy and consistency. However, the true test of their performance hinges on the validated effectiveness of the TUI design in terminal ballistics.
Design & Ergonomics
The CNC-machined solid copper construction of the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper is a testament to their build quality. The bullets have a consistent shape and weight, contributing to uniform performance.
The lighter weight contributes to reduced recoil and potentially faster follow-up shots, enhancing the overall shooting experience. The multi-cannelure design facilitates secure seating in the case and potentially aids in the tumbling effect upon impact.
The streamlined design and precise machining instill confidence in the round’s overall quality and performance potential. The absence of lead in the construction is a significant design advantage, minimizing potential health risks associated with lead exposure.
Durability & Maintenance
The solid copper construction of the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper suggests excellent durability. Copper is a robust material that resists deformation and corrosion.
The bullets should theoretically last indefinitely under proper storage conditions. The design simplifies cleaning, reducing copper fouling in the barrel compared to some copper-jacketed lead-core bullets.
Overall, the durability and ease of maintenance are significant advantages of the Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper. Their solid copper construction ensures a long service life and simplifies cleaning and maintenance procedures.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper, being bullets themselves, do not come with accessories. However, they are compatible with standard .308 Winchester rifles and AR-10 platforms.
These rounds can be used with a variety of optics, depending on the shooter’s preference and intended use. There are no specific modifications required to use these bullets in a compatible rifle chambered in .308 Winchester.
The absence of specific accessories or customization options is not a significant drawback. The compatibility with standard .308 rifles ensures broad applicability and ease of use.
Pros and Cons of Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper
Pros
- Reduced Lead Exposure: The solid copper construction eliminates lead, reducing potential health risks.
- Consistent Accuracy: Provides reliable and accurate groupings at various distances.
- Manageable Recoil: The lighter grain weight reduces recoil, facilitating faster follow-up shots.
- Effective Cleaning: Minimizes copper fouling in the barrel, simplifying cleaning procedures.
- Potentially Devastating Terminal Ballistics: Unique TUI design offers potentially superior stopping power (requires validation).
Cons
- Limited third-party ballistic gel data available to confirm the TUI design performance.
- The lighter grain weight might not be ideal for all .308 applications, particularly long-range shooting.
Who Should Buy Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper?
The Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper is perfect for hunters seeking a non-lead option with potentially devastating terminal ballistics. It also suits shooters prioritizing reduced lead exposure and ease of cleaning.
Those seeking a round primarily for long-range target shooting might find the lighter grain weight less than ideal. Shooters unwilling to experiment with less-proven terminal ballistics designs or those relying on established expansion patterns might want to skip this product.
A chronograph to measure velocity would be a beneficial accessory to understand ballistic performance in individual rifles. Ballistic gel for independent testing could provide the necessary validation of the TUI design.
Conclusion on Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper
The Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper presents a compelling option for shooters seeking non-lead ammunition with potentially superior terminal ballistics. The accuracy, manageable recoil, and ease of cleaning are definite advantages.
At $30.78 for 50 bullets, the price is reasonable for match-grade, solid copper ammunition. However, the true value hinges on the effectiveness of the TUI design, which requires further validation.
I would recommend this product to adventurous shooters willing to experiment and validate the TUI claims. Further testing of Fort Scott Munitions Multi-Cannelure Projectile Rifle Bullets, .308 Caliber, 115 gr, CNC Machined Copper is needed, but this bullet has a lot of potential.