Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets Review

Let’s Talk About Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets are designed for competition shooters seeking accuracy and reliability. Manufactured by Hornady, these bullets aim to deliver consistent performance, making them a popular choice for action pistol events.

I was searching for a reliable and accurate bullet for USPSA competitions, tired of inconsistent performance from cheaper options. I needed a bullet that would feed reliably in my .45 ACP 1911 and deliver tight groupings at 25 yards.

Upon receiving the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets, I immediately noticed the quality of the packaging and the uniform appearance of the projectiles. They felt well-made and consistent in weight, which is crucial for accurate reloading.

Compared to cheaper FMJ bullets, the HAP bullets exhibited a smoother, more refined finish. I also considered Berry’s plated bullets, but I opted for the Hornady HAP due to the promise of superior accuracy and consistent feeding in my competition pistol.

My first impression was excitement; I was eager to test their performance and see if they lived up to their reputation. The sheer quantity (1800 bullets) also gave me confidence that I was investing in a long-term solution for my competition needs.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets at my local outdoor shooting range, using my custom-built .45 ACP 1911. The weather was slightly overcast, with a mild breeze, providing typical range conditions.

The bullets performed exceptionally well, feeding smoothly and consistently through my 1911. Even after several hundred rounds, I experienced no malfunctions related to the bullets themselves.

The HAP bullets were easy to load into my magazines and seated consistently during the reloading process. I found the loading data provided by Hornady to be accurate, and I achieved consistent velocities using my standard powder charge.

Initially, I was surprised by the minimal amount of smoke produced compared to other bullets I had used. It was a welcome change, improving visibility downrange.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets have consistently delivered top-tier performance. I have now loaded and fired over 1000 of these bullets, and my initial positive impressions have only solidified.

The bullets have shown no signs of degradation or change in performance over time. The consistent weight and dimensions ensure reliable feeding and accurate shooting session after session.

Maintenance has been minimal; the bullets themselves require no cleaning, and my reloading dies have remained clean as well. This speaks to the quality of the Gilding Metal Jacket and the clean-burning characteristics of the projectile.

Compared to my previous experiences with cheaper bullets, the Hornady HAP bullets have dramatically improved my accuracy and reduced malfunctions. They have become an essential component of my competitive shooting setup, significantly boosting my confidence.

Breaking Down the Features of Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets

Specifications

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets in .45 ACP have a diameter of 0.451 inches and a weight of 200 grains. The G1 Ballistic Coefficient is 0.151, while the Sectional Density is 0.14.

The Jacket Material is Gilding Metal, and the bullet type is Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP). The swaged core is made of pure lead, offering consistent weight and balance.

• Caliber: .45 ACP: This is a classic pistol caliber known for its stopping power and accuracy. It makes these bullets suitable for a wide range of 1911-style pistols.
• Bullet Weight: 200 grain: The 200-grain weight offers a good balance of recoil and energy transfer, making it comfortable to shoot while still delivering effective performance.
• Diameter: 0.451 in: This is the standard diameter for .45 ACP bullets, ensuring compatibility with most .45 ACP barrels.
• G1 Ballistic Coefficient: 0.151: This measures the bullet’s ability to overcome air resistance during flight, indicating its potential for accuracy at longer ranges.
• Sectional Density: 0.14: This is the ratio of a bullet’s weight to its cross-sectional area, influencing penetration and stability in flight.
• Jacket Material: Gilding Metal: This alloy of copper and zinc provides excellent durability and helps reduce fouling in the barrel.

Performance & Functionality

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets are specifically designed for accuracy and consistent feeding in semi-automatic pistols. Their design emphasizes precision and reliability over expansion, making them ideal for target shooting and competition.

These bullets excel in accuracy, consistently delivering tight groupings at various distances. They are highly reliable, ensuring smooth feeding and minimal malfunctions in well-maintained pistols.

Overall, these bullets meet and often exceed expectations for competitive shooting. Their consistent performance and accuracy make them a top choice for serious shooters.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets is exceptional, with consistent dimensions and a smooth finish. The Gilding Metal jacket provides durability and reduces fouling.

The bullets are user-friendly for reloaders, seating easily and consistently in cartridge cases. There is no significant learning curve involved in loading these bullets.

Durability & Maintenance

With proper storage, the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets will last indefinitely without degradation. The Gilding Metal jacket is resistant to corrosion.

These bullets require no maintenance beyond proper storage. Their clean-burning characteristics help reduce the need for frequent cleaning of reloading dies and firearms.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets do not come with any accessories, as they are projectiles intended for reloading. Reloading dies, cartridge cases, and primers are required to load these bullets into ammunition.

These bullets are compatible with standard .45 ACP reloading equipment and can be used with a variety of powders and primers. While there aren’t direct “accessories,” reloaders can experiment with different load combinations to fine-tune performance.

Pros and Cons of Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets

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Who Should Buy Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets?

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets are perfect for competitive shooters participating in USPSA, IPSC, or similar action pistol events. Reloaders seeking consistent, accurate projectiles for target practice and training will also benefit greatly.

Those prioritizing maximum stopping power in self-defense scenarios should skip this product and opt for expanding hollow-point bullets. Also, shooters on a very tight budget may find cheaper FMJ options more appealing, although the HAP bullets offer superior performance.

A high-quality reloading press, accurate powder measure, and reliable primers are must-have accessories for reloading these bullets. Experimenting with different powder charges and bullet seating depths can further optimize performance for specific firearms.

Conclusion on Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets

The Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets are a top-tier choice for competition shooters and serious reloaders who demand accuracy and reliability. Their consistent performance, high-quality construction, and minimal fouling make them a worthwhile investment.

The price is justified by the superior accuracy and reliability compared to cheaper alternatives. While not suitable for self-defense, their performance in target shooting and competition is exceptional.

I would personally highly recommend the Hornady HAP Pistol Bullets to any shooter looking to improve their accuracy and consistency. If you are serious about competition or simply want the best possible performance from your .45 ACP pistol, give these bullets a try – you won’t be disappointed.