Let’s Dive into Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP are designed for serious revolver enthusiasts and hunters seeking controlled expansion and deep penetration. Manufactured by Swift Bullet Company, these bullets promise exceptional weight retention and consistent accuracy. These features are essential for ethical hunting and reliable performance in self-defense scenarios.
My quest for a premium .357 Magnum bullet stemmed from a recent hog hunting trip where my standard rounds failed to deliver the desired penetration on a tough boar. I needed a bullet that could reliably reach vital organs, even after encountering thick hide and bone. The promise of the A-Frame’s bonded core and controlled expansion immediately caught my attention.
Upon opening the box, the bullets appeared meticulously crafted. The exposed lead soft point and robust copper jacket instilled confidence. Their weight felt substantial, suggesting a high degree of density and potential for deep penetration.
I considered other options, like the Hornady XTP and Speer Gold Dot Hollow Points. However, the Swift A-Frame distinguishes itself with its unique cross-member copper jacket design, promising superior weight retention compared to the more conventional jacketed hollow points. This innovative construction ultimately swayed my decision.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The A-Frame’s design appeared well-engineered, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype on the range and in the field. If these bullets perform as advertised, they could become my go-to choice for all my .357 Magnum applications.
Real-World Testing: Putting Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, simulating field conditions with targets placed at varying distances (25, 50, and 75 yards). I primarily used my Smith & Wesson Model 686, a reliable .357 Magnum revolver with a 6-inch barrel. The weather was clear and cool, providing optimal conditions for testing accuracy.
The Swift A-Frame bullets performed exceptionally well. Recoil felt manageable, and the bullets consistently grouped within a 2-inch circle at 25 yards and within 4 inches at 50 yards. At 75 yards, the grouping opened up to around 6 inches, which is still acceptable for hunting purposes.
The bullets loaded smoothly into the cylinder and extracted cleanly after firing. I noticed no signs of excessive leading or fouling in the barrel, indicating a good quality jacket and consistent bullet dimensions. No issues were experienced during the first shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, I’ve put several hundred rounds of the Swift A-Frame through my revolver. The bullets have proven to be incredibly consistent and reliable. There have been no failures to feed, fire, or eject.
The bullets hold up well, even after being carried in my hunting pack for extended periods. I haven’t noticed any signs of deformation or damage. Cleaning is straightforward; standard bore solvent and brushes easily remove any residue.
In a recent hog hunt, the Swift A-Frame performed flawlessly. A single shot to the vitals dropped a 200-pound boar in its tracks. The bullet penetrated deeply, leaving a significant wound channel, confirming its excellent terminal ballistics. This experience solidified my confidence in the A-Frame’s performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Swift Bullet Company. This is a respected name in the bullet manufacturing industry, known for its commitment to quality and performance.
- Bullet Type: Hollow Point (HP). The hollow point design initiates rapid expansion upon impact.
- Projectile Caliber: .357 Caliber. This is a standard and versatile caliber suitable for both hunting and self-defense.
- Bullet Weight: 158 gr. This weight provides a good balance between velocity and penetration.
- Bullet Quantity: 50 Bullet. This quantity is suitable for practice and hunting.
- A-Frame Design: The innovative cross-member copper jacket design with bonded core is the key to the A-Frame’s exceptional performance.
- Bonded Core: The bonded core ensures that the lead core remains attached to the jacket, even after encountering significant resistance.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The hollow point design ensures rapid expansion, creating a larger wound cavity and increasing stopping power. The bonded core guarantees deep penetration, allowing the bullet to reach vital organs even through thick hide and bone.
Performance & Functionality
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP excel in their primary function: delivering controlled expansion and deep penetration. Their accuracy is excellent, consistently grouping tightly at various distances. The bullets are reliable, showing no signs of malfunctions or inconsistencies.
One of the A-Frame’s strengths is its weight retention. It retains up to 95% of its original weight upon impact. This ensures that the bullet continues to penetrate deeply, even after expanding. The only potential weakness is the relatively high cost compared to other .357 Magnum bullets.
These bullets have exceeded my expectations. They provide the perfect combination of accuracy, reliability, and terminal performance for hunting and self-defense. The A-Frame inspires confidence in any situation.
Design & Ergonomics
The Swift A-Frame bullets feature a well-thought-out design. The exposed lead soft point is perfectly positioned for reliable expansion. The copper jacket is robust and uniformly thick.
The bullets are easy to handle and load into the cylinder. The overall build quality is excellent, reflecting the manufacturer’s commitment to precision and attention to detail.
Durability & Maintenance
The Swift A-Frame bullets are designed to withstand the rigors of hunting and tactical use. Their bonded core and tough copper jacket make them highly resistant to deformation and fragmentation. With proper storage, these bullets should last indefinitely.
Cleaning my revolver after shooting A-Frame bullets is simple. Standard bore solvents and brushes easily remove any residue.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP are primarily bullets, therefore no accessories come directly with the product. However, they are compatible with a wide range of .357 Magnum revolvers and reloading equipment.
The performance of the A-Frame can be further enhanced by selecting a suitable revolver with a barrel length appropriate for the intended use. A quality scope or red dot sight can also improve accuracy at longer ranges. These bullets offer versatility for various setups.
Pros and Cons of Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP
Pros
- Exceptional weight retention (up to 95%) leading to superior penetration.
- Consistent and reliable performance across a range of distances and conditions.
- Controlled expansion ensures maximum stopping power.
- High-quality construction and materials.
- Suitable for hunting and self-defense applications.
Cons
- Higher cost compared to other .357 Magnum bullets.
- May produce slightly more recoil due to the heavier bullet weight.
Who Should Buy Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP?
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP are perfect for hunters seeking a reliable and effective bullet for medium-sized game like deer and hogs. They are also ideal for individuals who prioritize self-defense and want a bullet that can deliver maximum stopping power. Experienced shooters looking for premium performance will appreciate the A-Frame’s consistency and accuracy.
This product might not be the best choice for casual plinkers or those on a tight budget, as cheaper alternatives exist for target practice. Beginners might find the recoil slightly more challenging to manage than lighter bullets.
Must-have accessories would include a reliable .357 Magnum revolver, a quality holster for carry, and appropriate safety gear like eye and ear protection. Reloaders might consider using high-quality brass and primers to maximize the A-Frame’s performance.
Conclusion on Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP
The Swift Bullet Company A-Frame Revolver Bullets .357 cal .357 158 gr AFHP are a premium option for discerning shooters who demand the best in performance and reliability. Their innovative design, exceptional weight retention, and controlled expansion make them a top choice for hunting and self-defense. While they come at a higher price point than some alternatives, the superior performance justifies the cost for those who prioritize quality.
The price is justified considering the consistent, reliable, and ethical performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Swift A-Frame bullets to anyone looking for a top-tier .357 Magnum bullet. If you need the confidence of knowing your ammunition will perform flawlessly when it matters most, these bullets are an excellent investment. Upgrade your ammunition and experience the difference!