Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB Review

First Impressions of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB

As someone who has spent over a decade meticulously evaluating outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve developed a keen eye for quality and performance. When I first came across the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB, I was intrigued by the promise of a hard-cast bullet designed for both high velocities and steel target compatibility. The offering from Magnus seemed to bridge a gap, offering versatility that I found particularly appealing.

I was looking for a reliable bullet option for my .357 Magnum, something accurate enough for target practice but robust enough for potential defensive scenarios. Too often, I found myself juggling different loads for different purposes, which was a logistical headache. This bullet promised to potentially simplify my setup, a feature that immediately caught my attention.

Upon receiving the box of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB, I was immediately impressed by the consistent casting quality. Each bullet appeared uniform, with a clean round nose flat base (RNFB) profile and a smooth, even finish. The bullets had a reassuring weight, hinting at the advertised 200-grain heft.

Compared to other cast bullets I’ve used, like the often softer lead round nose options from some budget brands, these felt noticeably harder. I had been considering bullets from Missouri Bullet Company, known for their hardness, but the Magnus‘ claimed alloy composition convinced me to give them a try first. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism, hoping they would live up to the hype.

I was excited to see if the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB could deliver on their promise of high-velocity performance without excessive leading and potential for use on steel targets. A versatile, reliable, and accurate .357 Magnum load is a prized asset, and I was eager to see if these bullets could fill that role.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB at my local outdoor shooting range, under sunny and mild conditions. I loaded them into .357 Magnum cases using a moderate charge of Hodgdon H110 powder, aiming to achieve a velocity close to 1200 FPS, as suggested in the product description. My test platform was a Ruger GP100 with a 6-inch barrel, a revolver known for its ruggedness and accuracy.

The initial shots were surprisingly clean, with minimal smoke and a satisfying recoil impulse. I was pleased to see no immediate signs of leading in the barrel after the first cylinder. Accuracy at 25 yards was respectable, producing groupings of around 3-4 inches, which is acceptable for general practice with cast bullets.

The biggest surprise was how well the bullets seemed to hold up when impacting a steel target at 50 yards. Unlike some softer lead bullets that tend to splatter, these left clean, defined marks, suggesting that the alloy was indeed hard enough to resist significant deformation.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, spanning multiple range sessions and a few informal plinking excursions, the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB have continued to impress me. I’ve put approximately 500 rounds downrange with them so far.

Durability has been excellent, with no signs of significant wear and tear on the bullets themselves, aside from the expected deformation upon impact. Leading in the barrel remains minimal, especially when compared to other cast bullets I’ve used. Regular cleaning with a copper brush and solvent easily removes any residue.

Compared to my previous experiences with lighter, jacketed .357 Magnum bullets, the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB offers a different shooting experience. The heavier bullet provides a more substantial recoil and penetrates deeper into targets. While the lighter bullets might offer a flatter trajectory, the Magnus bullets offer superior energy transfer at close to medium ranges.

Breaking Down the Features of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB

Specifications

The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB boasts the following key specifications:

• Caliber: .38/.357 cal, specifically sized at .357 inches. This is critical for proper bore engagement and accuracy in .38 Special and .357 Magnum firearms.
• Weight: 200 grains. This heavier weight provides greater momentum and penetration compared to lighter bullets.
• Bullet Type: Round Nose Flat Base (RNFB). The RNFB design aids in smooth feeding and provides a stable base for consistent accuracy.
• Bullet Quantity: 500 bullets per package. This bulk quantity is cost-effective for frequent shooters and reloaders.
• Alloy Composition: 91% Lead, 4% Tin, and 5% Antimony. Magnus states that this alloy ensures the bullet is hard enough to withstand velocities up to 1200 FPS without excessive leading.
• Manufacturer: Magnus. Magnus is known for producing quality cast bullets, and their commitment to specific alloy compositions is important for consistent performance.

These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the bullet’s performance, accuracy, and suitability for various applications.

Performance & Functionality

The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB performs its job admirably, offering a balance of accuracy, penetration, and reduced leading. Accuracy is consistent, making it suitable for target practice and recreational shooting.

The heavier bullet weight provides excellent penetration, making it a potentially viable option for self-defense or hunting smaller game. One weakness, however, is that at higher velocities, a gas check might be necessary to completely eliminate leading in some firearms, although I didn’t experience excessive leading in my tests.

Overall, the bullet meets and slightly exceeds expectations for a cast bullet in this price range. The performance is predictable, consistent, and reliable.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB is straightforward and functional. The RNFB profile is a classic design that has proven its effectiveness over decades.

The bullet is easy to handle and load into cases, with a consistent diameter that ensures a snug fit. The smooth finish minimizes friction and prevents damage during the reloading process.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB is excellent, thanks to its hard-cast alloy. With proper loading and regular firearm maintenance, these bullets should provide a long service life.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only routine cleaning of the firearm’s bore to remove any lead residue. Proper bullet lubrication during reloading also helps to reduce leading and improve performance.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB itself doesn’t require any specific accessories, as it’s a standalone component for reloading. However, its performance can be further enhanced by using high-quality reloading dies and consistent powder charges.

While these bullets are designed to be used as-is, experienced reloaders can experiment with different powder types and charge weights to fine-tune their performance. The bullet’s .357-inch diameter makes it compatible with most .38 Special and .357 Magnum firearms, as well as a wide variety of reloading equipment.

Pros and Cons of Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB

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Who Should Buy Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB?

The Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB is perfect for reloaders seeking a versatile and cost-effective bullet for their .38 Special or .357 Magnum firearms. This is an excellent choice for target shooters, recreational plinkers, and those looking for a reliable self-defense load at a reasonable price.

This product is not for reloaders who prioritize extreme accuracy or require bullets specifically designed for long-range shooting. Those who demand the flattest possible trajectory might also be better served by lighter, jacketed bullets.

A must-have accessory for these bullets is a high-quality bullet lubricant. Lubricating the bullets during reloading can significantly reduce leading and improve overall performance.

Conclusion on Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB

In summary, the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB is a well-designed and cost-effective cast bullet that delivers consistent performance across a range of applications. The price is absolutely justified, especially considering the quality of the materials and the reduced leading compared to other cast bullets.

I would personally recommend this product to any reloader looking for a versatile and reliable .38 Special or .357 Magnum bullet. It’s a solid choice for both target practice and self-defense.

If you’re looking for a hard-cast bullet that offers excellent value and consistent performance, give the Magnus Allstar/Magnus Bullets .38/357 cal .357in 200 gr RNFB a try. You won’t be disappointed.