First Impressions of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets
The .380 ACP cartridge often gets a bad rap, seen as underpowered by some, but it holds a significant place in concealed carry. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve spent years analyzing various ammunition types for their performance and reliability, so I was eager to test the X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets. These bullets, manufactured by X-Treme Bullets, promise optimal penetration and weight retention, crucial factors in a self-defense round.
I was looking for a reliable, consistent bullet for reloading my .380 ACP ammunition for practice and personal defense. Many .380 ACP rounds on the market prioritize velocity over controlled expansion and penetration. Opening the box, the first thing I noticed was the clean, consistent look of the projectiles. The copper jackets looked uniformly applied, and the hollow point cavities were well-formed.
Compared to some other budget-friendly bullets, these X-Treme Bullets appeared to have a higher level of quality control. I’ve used Berry’s Bullets and some cast lead options in the past, but I was looking for a jacketed hollow point for improved feeding and terminal performance. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; these bullets seemed like a solid choice for reloaders seeking performance without breaking the bank.
Real-World Testing: Putting X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for these bullets was my local shooting range, where I could control variables and measure performance. I loaded the X-Treme Bullets using a progressive reloading press, ensuring consistent powder charges and overall length. My test platform was a Glock 42, a popular and reliable .380 ACP pistol.
I tested these X-Treme Bullets in both dry and slightly humid conditions to assess their reliability. The bullets fed smoothly into the chamber and consistently ignited. There were no noticeable issues with primer strikes or hangfires.
After the first magazine, I was pleasantly surprised by the accuracy and consistency of these bullets. The recoil was manageable, and the bullets grouped tightly at 7 yards, well within acceptable parameters for self-defense scenarios.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several hundred rounds, the X-Treme Bullets continued to perform consistently. I didn’t experience any malfunctions directly attributable to the bullets themselves. The copper jackets held up well during the firing process, with minimal signs of deformation.
After cleaning my pistol, I inspected the barrel for any signs of excessive leading or copper fouling, but found very little. This indicates a good quality jacket and proper bullet dimensions. These X-Treme Bullets are holding up well, without any signs of degradation or performance decrease.
Compared to some bulk FMJ rounds I’ve used in the past, these X-Treme Bullets offered a noticeable improvement in accuracy and consistency. While not a match-grade bullet, they exceeded my expectations for a mid-range hollow point.
Breaking Down the Features of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets
Specifications
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets are designed for reliable performance in .380 ACP pistols. The X-Treme Bullets are 95-grain hollow point projectiles, a popular weight for this caliber. The bullet diameter is 0.355 inches, standard for .380 ACP.
These bullets are packaged in a box of 100, a convenient quantity for reloaders and shooters who want to test different loads. The brass cartridge type ensures compatibility with standard .380 ACP pistols. The lead core and copper jacket contribute to weight retention and controlled expansion upon impact.
The specified 12-18 inch penetration depth in clear ballistic gelatin is significant for self-defense ammunition. The claimed 99% weight retention is also impressive, indicating minimal fragmentation and maximum energy transfer to the target.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of these bullets is to provide reliable and effective stopping power in self-defense situations. Based on my testing, the X-Treme Bullets deliver on this promise. The hollow point design promotes rapid expansion upon impact, creating a larger wound channel and increasing the likelihood of incapacitation.
Accuracy was good, with consistent groupings at typical self-defense distances (5-15 yards). The reliability of these X-Treme Bullets was excellent. There were no feeding or extraction issues in my Glock 42.
The only potential weakness is that .380 ACP rounds are generally considered less powerful than larger calibers like 9mm or .45 ACP. However, the controlled expansion and penetration of these bullets help to maximize the effectiveness of the .380 ACP cartridge.
Design & Ergonomics
The X-Treme Bullets are designed with a focus on functionality and reliability. The consistent shape and dimensions make them easy to load and ensure proper feeding in a variety of pistols. The smooth copper jacket reduces friction and minimizes barrel fouling.
The well-formed hollow point cavity is crucial for consistent expansion. The weight of the bullet contributes to manageable recoil and aids in accuracy.
There is no particular ergonomic consideration with a bullet itself other than its contribution to the overall shooting experience. These bullets did contribute to a comfortable and accurate shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The copper jacket and lead core construction of the X-Treme Bullets make them durable and resistant to deformation. The bullets held up well during the reloading process, with minimal signs of damage or distortion. The copper jacket also helps to prevent corrosion and degradation of the lead core.
Maintenance is minimal, as these are projectiles meant to be fired and not reused. However, proper cleaning and lubrication of the firearm is essential to ensure optimal performance. The lack of excessive fouling from these bullets simplifies the cleaning process.
Accessories and Customization Options
These X-Treme Bullets are primarily designed for reloaders who want to create their own custom ammunition. There are no specific accessories that come with the bullets themselves. However, reloaders can experiment with different powder charges, primers, and case types to fine-tune the performance of their .380 ACP loads.
These bullets are compatible with a wide range of .380 ACP pistols. They can also be used with aftermarket barrels and recoil springs to optimize performance. They are a standard size and shape, making them widely compatible with standard .380 reloading equipment.
Pros and Cons of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets
Pros
- Consistent Performance: The X-Treme Bullets offer reliable ignition and consistent accuracy.
- Controlled Expansion: The hollow point design promotes rapid expansion and effective stopping power.
- Minimal Fouling: The copper jacket reduces friction and minimizes barrel fouling.
- Good Value: These bullets offer a balance of performance and affordability.
- High Weight Retention: Claimed 99% weight retention for optimal energy transfer.
Cons
- .380 ACP Caliber:* .380 ACP is inherently less powerful than larger calibers.
- Limited Customization: As a bullet, the customization is limited to reloading recipes.
Who Should Buy X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets?
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets are perfect for reloaders who want to create reliable self-defense ammunition. They are also a good choice for shooters who want to improve the performance of their .380 ACP pistols without breaking the bank. These bullets are ideal for concealed carry permit holders who prioritize stopping power and accuracy.
This product might not be the best choice for competitive shooters who require match-grade accuracy. Shooters who prefer larger calibers with more inherent stopping power may want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory would be a reliable reloading press and accurate powder scale. A quality .380 ACP pistol and appropriate safety gear are also essential.
Conclusion on X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets
In summary, the X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .380 ACP 95 Grain Hollow Point XDEF 100ct Boxed Bullets Pistol Bullets are a solid choice for reloaders seeking a reliable and effective self-defense round. The price is justified by the consistent performance, controlled expansion, and minimal fouling.
I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone who wants to improve the performance of their .380 ACP pistols. They offer a good balance of value and performance. If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable hollow point bullet for your .380 ACP, give these X-Treme Bullets a try. You won’t be disappointed!