Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain Review

Let’s Talk About Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain

The Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain are designed to enhance the performance of lever-action rifles chambered in .44 Magnum. These bullets, manufactured by Hornady, have garnered significant attention for their innovative design and purported improvements in accuracy and terminal ballistics. The flexible tip, a key feature, is designed to improve safety in tubular magazines and enhance expansion upon impact.

For years, I’ve been searching for a bullet that offers improved ballistic performance in my lever-action .44 Magnum. My primary concern has always been achieving a flatter trajectory and more consistent expansion on game animals at extended ranges. I was looking for a bullet that would reliably cycle in my rifle’s action and deliver consistent accuracy from the bench and in field conditions.

Upon opening the box, I was immediately impressed by the sleek, consistent appearance of the bullets. The soft tips are a noticeable departure from traditional round-nose or flat-point bullets typically used in lever guns. The bullets felt substantial, with a reassuring heft that hinted at good weight retention and deep penetration.

Compared to standard .44 Magnum bullets like the 240-grain lead semi-wadcutter or jacketed hollow point, the Hornady FTX design seemed to offer a distinct advantage in terms of aerodynamics. I considered other similar bullets, but the Hornady name and reputation for quality swayed my decision. I needed to tame the rainbow trajectory of my .44 lever-action, and these seemed like the ticket.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The design seemed promising, but I was eager to see how they would perform in my rifle and whether they would live up to the hype surrounding their ballistic performance and terminal effects. At $48.49 for 50 bullets, they aren’t the cheapest option, so performance needs to justify the expense.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain to the Test

First Use Experience

I primarily tested the Hornady FTX bullets at a local shooting range, focusing on accuracy at 50, 100, and 150 yards. I also conducted some informal tests in a controlled outdoor environment, simulating hunting conditions to evaluate their performance on simulated targets. Conditions varied from sunny and calm to slightly windy, allowing me to assess their stability in different environments.

The bullets proved easy to load and cycle in my Marlin 1894. I immediately noticed tighter groupings at 100 yards compared to my standard 240-grain loads. There were no issues with feeding or extraction, even after extended shooting sessions.

The initial testing revealed impressive accuracy, but there were a few instances of slightly inconsistent expansion in my simulated target tests. I needed to do more testing to dial in my load. The FTX bullets did seem particularly sensitive to variations in velocity, which is worth noting for handloaders.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Hornady FTX bullets have proven to be reliable and consistent in their performance. I’ve fired several hundred rounds through my rifle without experiencing any malfunctions. The bullets have maintained their accuracy and integrity, even after repeated exposure to varying weather conditions.

I haven’t observed any significant signs of wear and tear on the bullets themselves. The brass cases show normal wear patterns, and the rifle’s bore remains clean with minimal fouling. Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only standard cleaning procedures after each shooting session.

Compared to my previous experiences with other .44 Magnum bullets, the Hornady FTX offers a notable improvement in accuracy and ballistic consistency. While the cost is higher, the improved performance justifies the investment for serious shooters and hunters. I’ve now confidently dialed in my load, and it’s proved to be an absolute hammer on hogs!

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain

Specifications

The Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain boast several key specifications:

• Caliber: .44 Caliber: Designed for rifles chambered in .44 Magnum or .44 Special.
• Bullet Weight: 265 grain: Offers a balance of manageable recoil and effective stopping power.
• Bullet Type: Spitzer: Provides a more aerodynamic profile for improved ballistic coefficient.
• Projectile Diameter: .430 inch: Standard diameter for .44 caliber firearms ensuring proper chambering and barrel fit.
• Sectional Density: 0.205: Indicates the bullet’s ability to penetrate, with a higher number generally suggesting deeper penetration.
• Bullet Quantity: 50 Bullet: Sold in boxes of 50, suitable for reloading and practice sessions.
• Fabric/Material: Copper: Jacketed bullet for improved accuracy and reduced barrel fouling.

These specifications are crucial because they directly influence the bullet’s trajectory, accuracy, and terminal performance. The Spitzer shape, combined with the bullet weight, contributes to a flatter trajectory and improved energy retention at longer ranges. The copper jacket ensures reliable feeding and minimizes lead fouling in the barrel, enhancing accuracy and ease of cleaning.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain excel in several key areas. Their accuracy is significantly improved compared to traditional .44 Magnum bullets, allowing for tighter groupings at extended ranges. The flexible tip design ensures reliable feeding in lever-action rifles and promotes rapid expansion upon impact.

The main strength lies in their ability to extend the effective range of .44 Magnum rifles while maintaining adequate terminal performance. One weakness I’ve observed is that they can be slightly more expensive than other comparable bullets. They do meet and often exceed expectations, particularly for hunters seeking improved accuracy and flatter trajectories in their lever-action rifles.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hornady FTX bullets is exceptional. They are made from high-quality materials and exhibit consistent dimensions and weight. The weight is appropriate for the caliber and provides a comfortable balance for shooting.

The FTX design is user-friendly and requires no special tools or techniques for loading. There is virtually no learning curve for experienced reloaders familiar with .44 Magnum cartridges. The flexible tip and overall bullet profile are thoughtfully designed for safe and reliable use in lever-action rifles.

Durability & Maintenance

The copper jacket and robust construction ensure the Hornady FTX bullets are durable and long-lasting. They are resistant to deformation during loading and firing and maintain their integrity during storage. The bullets are easy to maintain, requiring only standard cleaning procedures after each shooting session.

With proper care and storage, these bullets should last for many years. I expect them to remain reliable and effective for as long as they are properly stored and loaded.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain do not require any specific accessories, but are best used with appropriate reloading equipment. They are compatible with a wide range of .44 Magnum and .44 Special rifles and revolvers.

Reloading data is readily available from Hornady and other sources, allowing for customization of loads to suit specific rifles and shooting conditions. While no modifications are necessary, careful load development is recommended to achieve optimal accuracy and performance. These bullets are not particularly fussy and have proved quite versatile in my experience.

Pros and Cons of Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain

Who Should Buy Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain?

Perfect for: Hunters who use .44 Magnum lever-action rifles and seek improved accuracy and range for ethical harvests. Competitive shooters who compete in lever-action rifle matches and require consistent performance. Reloaders who are looking for high-quality components to create custom ammunition loads.

Who should skip this product? Those primarily engaged in close-range shooting with .44 Magnum revolvers, where the benefits of the FTX’s improved trajectory are less significant. Bulk shooters looking for the cheapest possible .44 caliber bullet, as these are premium projectiles that command a higher price.

Must-have accessories or modifications? Quality reloading equipment, including a reliable reloading press, powder scale, and bullet seating die. Access to reliable reloading data for Hornady FTX bullets. A chronograph to monitor velocity and ensure consistent performance.

Conclusion on Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain

The Hornady FTX Rifle Bullets, 44 Caliber, .430, 265 Grain are a high-quality option for shooters seeking to improve the performance of their .44 Magnum lever-action rifles. Their improved accuracy, flatter trajectory, and reliable expansion make them a worthwhile investment for serious hunters and competitors.

The price is justified by the noticeable improvements in performance and the peace of mind that comes with using a trusted brand like Hornady. I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone looking to maximize the potential of their .44 Magnum rifle and achieve consistent, ethical harvests in the field.

If you’re ready to take your .44 Magnum lever-action to the next level, give the Hornady FTX bullets a try – you won’t be disappointed! Spend the money and feel the difference.