First Impressions of Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible
In the world of ammunition, promises of superior stopping power and unique wound cavities are common. However, the Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible stand out with their solid copper construction and controlled fracturing technology. These bullets claim to deliver maximum terminal performance by creating multiple wound paths while maintaining deep penetration.
My search for these bullets stemmed from a growing concern about lead contamination at my local range and a desire for ammunition that offered both reliable performance and reduced environmental impact. I wanted a lead-free option without sacrificing the effectiveness of traditional hollow points. The concept of controlled fracturing, with its potential for increased energy transfer and multiple wound channels, piqued my interest.
Upon opening the box, the first thing that struck me was the pristine, solid copper appearance of the bullets. They felt substantial, with a clean, precisely formed hollow point. Compared to traditional lead-core hollow points, these Lehigh Defense bullets felt more like precision instruments than simple projectiles.
I also considered Barnes TAC-XP and Hornady Critical Duty rounds, both popular lead-free options, but the unique fracturing design of the Lehigh Defense bullets intrigued me enough to give them a try. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – I was excited to test the claims of enhanced terminal performance and see if these bullets lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible was my local indoor shooting range. I tested them in my Glock 19, a firearm known for its reliability and compatibility with a wide range of ammunition. The conditions were controlled, allowing me to focus on accuracy and observe any immediate issues.
The bullets fed flawlessly and the recoil felt similar to standard 115-grain FMJ rounds. I did, however, notice a slightly louder report and a sharper muzzle flash compared to standard ammunition. No malfunctions or signs of overpressure were observed during the first 50 rounds.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a couple of months, the Lehigh Defense bullets have proven to be consistently reliable. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds through my Glock 19 with zero failures to feed or extract. There’s no noticeable wear and tear beyond the typical copper fouling in the barrel, which is easily removed with standard cleaning.
The bullets consistently group well at 15 yards, providing similar accuracy to my preferred training ammunition. Compared to some other premium self-defense rounds I’ve used, these bullets hold their own in terms of accuracy and shootability. The promise of lead-free reliability has held true.
Breaking Down the Features of Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible
Specifications
- The Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets are .355 Caliber, designed for 9mm Luger firearms. These bullets weigh 115 grains, providing a balance between velocity and energy transfer.
- These are Hollow Point Frangible (HPF) bullets, constructed from solid copper. Being Lead Free makes these suitable for ranges with lead restrictions and for shooters concerned about lead exposure.
- Lehigh Defense originated the Controlled Fracturing Technology, which is the key to this bullet’s terminal performance. They are sold in quantities of 50 bullets per box.
Performance & Functionality
The core design of these bullets focuses on delivering maximum terminal performance. The controlled fracturing technology allows the bullet to penetrate to a specific depth before the pre-stressed petals deploy. This creates a dramatic energy spike and separates the petals, which radiate outward, creating multiple wound paths.
The bullet shank then continues to penetrate deeply along the initial impact path. While I haven’t tested these bullets on ballistic gel myself, the design principles suggest a significant increase in stopping power compared to standard FMJ rounds. However, the terminal performance is dependent on achieving sufficient velocity, which is crucial for proper fracturing.
Design & Ergonomics
The solid copper construction is visually appealing and suggests high quality. The hollow point is precisely formed and the overall design exudes a sense of technical sophistication. The bullet’s weight is consistent with other 115-grain 9mm rounds, making it compatible with a wide variety of firearms.
There is no real “ergonomics” factor with bullets, however, the design is optimized for consistent feeding and reliable fracturing upon impact.
Durability & Maintenance
Since these are projectiles, durability in the traditional sense doesn’t apply. However, the solid copper construction resists deformation during feeding and chambering. Cleaning is straightforward, as solid copper tends to foul less than lead-core bullets.
Copper fouling can be removed with standard bore cleaning solvents. Proper storage in a dry environment is essential to prevent corrosion.
Accessories and Customization Options
There are no accessories that come directly with the Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible. These are components for reloading ammunition. While there aren’t specific “accessories,” choosing the correct powder and primers is crucial to achieving optimal performance.
There are no real “customization” options beyond adjusting the powder charge to achieve a desired velocity, within safe reloading parameters. They are compatible with standard 9mm reloading dies and equipment.
Pros and Cons of Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible
Pros
- Excellent Terminal Performance: The controlled fracturing design promises significant stopping power and multiple wound paths.
- Lead-Free Construction: Environmentally friendly and suitable for ranges with lead restrictions.
- Reliable Feeding: The bullet’s design ensures smooth feeding and chambering in a variety of firearms.
- High-Quality Materials: Solid copper construction suggests durability and consistency.
- Consistent Accuracy: Provides comparable accuracy to standard training ammunition.
Cons
- Price: More expensive than standard lead-core bullets.
- Velocity Dependence: Terminal performance relies on achieving sufficient velocity, requiring careful load development.
Who Should Buy Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible?
These bullets are perfect for reloaders seeking a lead-free option with enhanced terminal ballistics for self-defense. They are suitable for individuals who prioritize performance and are willing to invest in premium components. These bullets are a good choice for shooters who frequently practice at indoor ranges with lead restrictions.
Those on a tight budget or who primarily shoot for casual plinking may want to skip this product. Those unwilling to develop and test custom loads to ensure proper velocity and fragmentation should probably stick to standard factory ammunition. Must-have components include high-quality reloading equipment, a chronograph for measuring velocity, and reliable load data specific to these bullets.
Conclusion on Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible
The Lehigh Defense Controlled Fracturing Pistol Bullets, .355 Caliber, 115 grain, Hollow Point Frangible offer a compelling combination of lead-free construction and innovative terminal ballistics. While they come at a premium price, the promise of enhanced stopping power and reduced environmental impact may justify the cost for many shooters.
The value proposition is strong for those who prioritize self-defense and are willing to invest the time and resources to develop optimal loads. I personally recommend these bullets for experienced reloaders looking for a high-performance, lead-free option. Invest in your safety and the environment. Try these bullets today!