Let’s Talk About Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count
The Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count is a muzzleloader bullet designed for fast loading, accuracy, and lethal terminal performance. Offered by Hornady, a trusted name in ammunition, these bullets promise to simplify the muzzleloading process while maximizing downrange impact.
My quest for the perfect muzzleloader projectile has been ongoing since I started hunting with black powder rifles over a decade ago. Sabots always seemed like a necessary evil, often difficult to load consistently, especially after several shots fouled the bore. I was searching for a bullet that provided consistent accuracy and easy loading without sacrificing terminal performance on deer-sized game.
The Hornady Bore Driver FTX intrigued me with its sabot-less design. The polymer base and FTX bullet combination seemed like a potentially game-changing approach to muzzleloading.
I considered other options like traditional lead conicals and saboted bullets from other manufacturers. However, the Bore Driver’s unique design and reputation for accuracy pushed me towards giving them a try. Initial inspection revealed a well-constructed bullet with a sleek profile and a robust polymer base. The FlexTip technology of the FTX bullet was also reassuring, promising reliable expansion at muzzleloader velocities.
I was cautiously optimistic. The claims of easy loading and superior accuracy had set the bar high.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hornady Bore Driver FTX bullets at my local shooting range, focusing on accuracy at 100 yards using my Traditions NitroFire rifle. Conditions were mild, with a slight breeze and temperatures in the mid-60s. Loading was noticeably easier than with sabots.
The bullet slid smoothly down the bore, requiring less force than traditional sabots even after multiple shots. My initial groups at 100 yards were impressive, consistently measuring around 1.5 to 2 inches with a clean bore.
After about ten shots, loading became slightly tighter, but still manageable. There were no misfires or other malfunctions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Hornady Bore Driver FTX, I’ve found them to be consistently reliable and accurate. I’ve fired approximately 50 rounds, and accuracy has remained consistent.
There has been no noticeable wear and tear on the bullets themselves, although the polymer base can accumulate some black powder residue. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only standard black powder solvent and a bore brush.
In comparison to my previous experience with saboted bullets, the Hornady Bore Driver FTX has been a clear upgrade. Loading is far easier and more consistent, and accuracy is on par if not better.
Breaking Down the Features of Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count
Specifications
Manufacturer: Hornady.
Bullet Type: Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) featuring FlexTip (FTX).
Projectile Caliber: .50 Caliber.
Bullet Weight: 290 grain. This weight offers a good balance of velocity and energy for effective terminal performance on deer and other medium-sized game.
Quantity: 20.
Lead Free: No.
Bullet Quantity: 20 Bullet.
Fabric/Material: Polymer. The polymer base seals the bore and engages the rifling for optimal energy transfer.
Number of Rounds: 20.
The InterLock ring helps retain bullet weight for deep penetration. This is crucial for ensuring adequate penetration on game animals, especially on quartering shots.
These specifications translate to a projectile that is designed for consistent performance and maximum lethality. The combination of the FTX bullet with its FlexTip technology and the polymer base allows for easy loading, excellent accuracy, and reliable expansion.
Performance & Functionality
The Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count performs exceptionally well in terms of accuracy and ease of use. The sabot-less design eliminates the inconsistencies often associated with sabots.
Its main strength is the ease of loading and consistent accuracy. One area for improvement is the slight increase in loading force required after multiple shots without cleaning. It meets my expectations for a premium muzzleloader bullet, delivering both accuracy and terminal performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The design is well-thought-out. The polymer base is robust and the bullet profile is aerodynamic. The materials used are high quality.
The weight is appropriate for a .50 caliber muzzleloader bullet, and it is comfortable to handle and load. The design is user-friendly. There is minimal learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hornady Bore Driver FTX bullets should last indefinitely until fired. The polymer base may degrade slightly over time with exposure to extreme temperatures or solvents.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving cleaning the bore after each shooting session. The bullets themselves require no special maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count does not require any specific accessories for use. However, proper cleaning solvents and tools are recommended for maintaining the muzzleloader.
The bullets are compatible with standard .50 caliber muzzleloaders. There are no specific customization options for the bullets themselves.
Pros and Cons of Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count
Pros
- Easy loading, even after multiple shots, compared to sabots.
- Excellent accuracy at typical muzzleloader hunting ranges (100-200 yards).
- Reliable expansion thanks to the FTX bullet with FlexTip technology.
- Sabot-less design eliminates the need for sabots and reduces plastic fouling.
- Consistent performance from shot to shot.
Cons
- Loading force increases slightly after multiple shots without cleaning.
- Polymer base can accumulate powder residue.
Who Should Buy Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count?
The Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count is perfect for muzzleloader hunters seeking a combination of accuracy, ease of loading, and reliable terminal performance on deer and other medium-sized game. It’s also a great choice for those who are tired of dealing with finicky sabots.
Those who primarily hunt larger game, such as elk or moose, may prefer a heavier bullet. A good cleaning rod and black powder solvent are must-have accessories to maintain accuracy.
Conclusion on Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count
Overall, the Hornady .50cal Bore Driver 3499 290 Grain FTX 20-count is an excellent muzzleloader bullet that delivers on its promises of easy loading, accuracy, and terminal performance. At a price of $14.49 for 20 bullets, the price is justified by the performance and convenience.
I would definitely recommend the Hornady Bore Driver FTX to any muzzleloader hunter looking for a reliable and accurate bullet. Give them a try and experience the difference! You won’t be disappointed.