First Impressions of Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet
The Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet is designed for one thing: taking down big game with a handgun. These aren’t your average range bullets; they’re built for penetration and expansion, delivering maximum energy transfer when it counts. Speer claims these bullets use an electrochemical bonding process for superior jacket-core adhesion and pre-formed petals for controlled expansion – a combination aimed at ensuring reliable performance on tough targets.
I’ve been hunting for years, and I’ve always believed in using the right tool for the job. Lately, I’ve been wanting to expand my handgun hunting capabilities, targeting larger game at closer ranges, and the .50 Action Express seemed like the perfect cartridge. I was searching for a bullet that could deliver consistent performance out of my Desert Eagle, and the DeepCurl’s reputation for penetration caught my eye.
My initial impression upon receiving the bullets was positive. The packaging was sturdy, and the bullets themselves looked clean and well-made, with a clearly defined hollow point. Their weight felt substantial, inspiring confidence in their potential stopping power.
Compared to other .50 AE bullets I’ve used, like Hornady XTPs, the Speer DeepCurl seemed to have a slightly more robust jacket. I chose these over the XTPs and similar offerings because I was looking for maximum penetration on thicker-skinned game. I also considered some solid copper options, but the DeepCurl’s controlled expansion seemed like a better balance of penetration and wound channel creation.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to test their performance in the field, but also aware that the .50 AE can be a handful to shoot accurately.
Real-World Testing: Putting Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Speer DeepCurl bullets at my local outdoor shooting range, simulating hunting conditions. This included shooting from supported and unsupported positions at targets placed at various distances, ranging from 25 to 75 yards. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze.
The bullets performed well, demonstrating consistent accuracy at all distances. Recoil was significant, as expected with the .50 AE, but manageable with a firm grip. No malfunctions were experienced with my Desert Eagle.
There were no real surprises during the initial range session, although the felt recoil was definitely more intense than with lighter practice loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and a hog hunt, the Speer DeepCurl bullets have proven to be remarkably reliable. I fired approximately 200 rounds through my Desert Eagle.
The bullets have consistently delivered accurate and reliable performance. There were no signs of excessive wear and tear on my firearm. Cleaning was straightforward, with no unusual residue or fouling.
Compared to my previous experiences with other handgun hunting rounds, the Speer DeepCurl has impressed me with its consistent expansion and deep penetration. During the hog hunt, the bullet performed exactly as advertised, dropping a 250-pound boar with a single shot. This outperformed some of my previous experiences where multiple shots were needed.
Breaking Down the Features of Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet
Specifications
The Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet boasts several key specifications:
- Caliber: .50 Action Express. This powerful caliber is designed for large game hunting.
- Bullet Weight: 300 grain. This heavier weight ensures deep penetration.
- Bullet Type: Hollow Point (HP). The hollow point design promotes expansion upon impact.
- Projectile Caliber: .50 Caliber. This precise diameter ensures proper chambering and accuracy.
- Bullet Quantity: 50 bullets per box. This offers sufficient rounds for practice and hunting.
These specifications are critical for handgun hunting because they dictate the bullet’s ability to penetrate and expand, delivering a lethal blow. The heavier bullet weight and hollow point design work in tandem to maximize energy transfer and create a devastating wound channel.
Performance & Functionality
The Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet performs exceptionally well in its intended role. Accuracy is excellent, with consistent groupings at typical handgun hunting ranges.
The bullets are reliable, consistently feeding and firing without issue. Their heavy weight and controlled expansion make them highly effective against large game. There is always room for improvement, but overall, these bullets perform very well.
These bullets meet and often exceed expectations for a handgun hunting round. Their stopping power is impressive.
Design & Ergonomics
The Speer DeepCurl bullet features a well-designed hollow point cavity and a jacket that is electrochemically bonded to the lead core. This design promotes controlled expansion and prevents jacket separation, ensuring deep penetration. The weight and shape of the bullet contribute to its stability in flight and its effectiveness on target.
The build quality is excellent, with consistent dimensions and a smooth finish. The design minimizes the learning curve, making them easy to load and shoot accurately.
Durability & Maintenance
These bullets are designed for single use, but the DeepCurl construction is exceptionally durable. The electrochemical bonding process prevents jacket separation, even upon impact with bone. Minimal maintenance is required, simply proper storage and handling to avoid damage.
The quality of materials should guarantee consistent accuracy and performance for an extended period when properly stored.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet doesn’t come with specific accessories, as it is a component for reloading. However, it is compatible with standard .50 AE reloading dies and components.
Users can customize their loads by adjusting powder charges and selecting different primers to fine-tune performance. These bullets are suitable for a wide range of aftermarket grips and optics commonly used with .50 AE handguns.
Pros and Cons of Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet
Pros
- Exceptional penetration: The heavy bullet weight and bonded construction ensure deep penetration on large game.
- Consistent expansion: Pre-formed petals promote reliable and controlled expansion.
- Excellent accuracy: These bullets deliver consistent groupings at typical handgun hunting ranges.
- Reliable performance: These bullets consistently feed and fire without issue.
- Effective stopping power: The combination of penetration and expansion delivers a lethal blow.
Cons
- High recoil: The .50 AE cartridge produces significant recoil, which can be challenging for some shooters.
- Expensive: .50 AE ammunition is generally more expensive than other handgun cartridges.
Who Should Buy Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet?
These bullets are perfect for handgun hunters targeting large game such as deer, hogs, and bear at close to medium ranges. They are also suitable for experienced shooters who appreciate the power and effectiveness of the .50 Action Express cartridge.
Beginners, or those sensitive to recoil, may find these bullets challenging to use accurately. Individuals looking for inexpensive practice ammunition should avoid these bullets due to the high cost of .50 AE ammunition.
Must-have accessories include high-quality hearing protection, a comfortable and secure grip, and a reliable reloading setup for consistent performance.
Conclusion on Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet
The Speer DeepCurl Handgun Hunting 50 Action Express 300 Grain Hollow Point Pistol Bullet is a top-tier choice for handgun hunters seeking maximum penetration and expansion on large game. While the .50 AE cartridge comes with a significant recoil and cost, the performance of these bullets justifies the investment for serious hunters.
The price is justified by the performance and reliability of the bullets in real-world hunting scenarios.
I would personally recommend the Speer DeepCurl bullets to any experienced handgun hunter looking for a powerful and effective round for taking down large game. If you’re serious about handgun hunting with a .50 AE, these bullets are a game-changer. Load up, aim true, and experience the power of the DeepCurl!