Let’s Talk About Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet offers an intriguing balance of affordability and performance for high-volume shooters. Manufactured by Speer, these bullets are designed with a full copper jacket encasing a lead core, promising reduced lead exposure and consistent accuracy. This design caters specifically to the needs of reloaders and range enthusiasts who seek economical yet reliable components for their .40 caliber handguns.
My journey to discover these bullets began when I was searching for a cost-effective solution for practicing with my .40 S&W Glock 22. I needed something that wouldn’t break the bank during frequent range sessions, yet would provide reliable feeding and reasonable accuracy. Upon unboxing, the Speer bullets immediately impressed me with their uniform appearance and consistent plating.
Compared to similar offerings from Berry’s Manufacturing and RMR Bullets, the Speer bullets stood out due to their reputation for reliable feeding and reduced leading in the barrel. I chose these over Berry’s due to their thicker plating and over RMR’s due to Speer’s established name and consistent availability. My first impression was a blend of excitement and cautious optimism – hoping that these would live up to their promise of both affordability and functionality.
Real-World Testing: Putting Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet took place at my local outdoor shooting range. I loaded up several magazines and prepared to evaluate their performance across various distances. The weather was typical for a spring day: slightly overcast with a light breeze.
The bullets fed flawlessly through my Glock 22, cycling smoothly and consistently. I found that the flat nose design aided in reliable feeding, even in a few older magazines. There were no noticeable keyholing or signs of instability during this initial outing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of using the Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet in weekly range sessions, I can attest to their consistent reliability. I’ve put roughly 2500 rounds downrange using these projectiles. The copper plating has held up remarkably well, with minimal signs of degradation or excessive fouling in my pistol’s barrel.
The bullets have proven to be quite durable, maintaining their shape and integrity even after being subjected to various crimping pressures. Regular cleaning and maintenance of my firearm has been straightforward, with no excessive lead fouling to contend with. Compared to using traditional lead bullets, the Speer bullets have significantly reduced the time spent cleaning my barrel, making the overall shooting experience more enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet
Specifications
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. These bullets are designed for use in .40 caliber handguns, specifically .40 S&W. Each bullet weighs 180 grains, providing a balanced load suitable for a variety of shooting applications.
The flat nose (FN) design is intended to improve feeding reliability in semi-automatic pistols. The complete copper plating minimizes lead exposure and reduces fouling. A quantity of 500 bullets per package allows for extended practice sessions without constant reordering.
Performance & Functionality
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet performs admirably in its intended role as a high-volume range projectile. I consistently achieve groupings of approximately 3-4 inches at 25 yards from a supported position. The accuracy is more than sufficient for practicing defensive shooting drills and honing marksmanship skills.
While not match-grade, the bullet’s consistency and reliable feeding make it an excellent choice for practical shooting and general range use. Its flat nose helps punch clean holes in paper targets, making scoring easier. The minimized lead exposure is a significant advantage, contributing to a safer and healthier shooting environment.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet prioritizes functionality and ease of use. The uniform copper plating provides a consistent bearing surface for reliable engagement with the rifling. The flat nose profile ensures smooth feeding, even in firearms with potentially finicky feeding characteristics.
The 180-grain weight offers a comfortable recoil impulse in most .40 S&W handguns. There is minimal learning curve, making these bullets ideal for both experienced reloaders and those new to the process. The shape and weight are well-suited for achieving consistent results without requiring extensive load development.
Durability & Maintenance
The fully encapsulated lead core and robust copper plating contribute to the Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet’s durability. These bullets are designed to withstand the stresses of high-volume shooting without significant deformation or jacket separation. With proper storage, they should last indefinitely.
Maintaining firearms that have been used with these bullets is relatively simple. The reduced lead exposure translates to less frequent and less intensive cleaning. A standard bore brush and solvent are typically sufficient to remove any residual fouling, ensuring optimal performance over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet doesn’t require any specific accessories to function properly. However, proper reloading equipment is essential for creating consistent and reliable ammunition. This includes a quality reloading press, powder measure, and bullet seating die.
While the bullets themselves aren’t customizable in the traditional sense, reloaders can experiment with different powder charges and crimping pressures to fine-tune their loads for optimal performance in their specific firearms. These bullets are compatible with a wide range of .40 S&W load data, offering considerable flexibility in creating custom ammunition.
Pros and Cons of Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet
Pros
- Significantly reduced lead exposure compared to traditional lead bullets.
- Reliable feeding due to the flat nose design.
- Affordable price point ideal for high-volume shooting and practice.
- Consistent accuracy suitable for general range use and defensive training.
- Easy to load with readily available load data.
Cons
- Not match-grade accurate for precision shooting competitions.
- Copper plating can still leave some fouling, although significantly less than unjacketed lead.
Who Should Buy Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet?
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet is perfect for high-volume shooters who want a cost-effective and cleaner alternative to traditional lead bullets. It is also ideal for reloaders looking for a reliable and consistent projectile for practice and training. Individuals who shoot frequently at indoor ranges will appreciate the reduced lead exposure.
Those seeking match-grade accuracy for competitive shooting should consider more specialized bullets. Anyone unwilling to reload their own ammunition will need to purchase factory-loaded ammunition using these bullets, if available. A quality reloading press and appropriate dies are a must-have for those who want to load these bullets.
Conclusion on Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet
The Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet offers an excellent balance of affordability, performance, and reduced lead exposure for .40 S&W shooters. The price is more than justified by the increased cleanliness and reliable feeding compared to traditional lead bullets. I wholeheartedly recommend these bullets to any reloader looking for a high-quality, cost-effective option for practice and training.
If you are a high-volume shooter looking to reduce lead exposure and save money, the Speer Copper Plated Flat Nose CPFN .400 Pistol Bullet is a solid choice. Start reloading today and experience the benefits for yourself!