First Impressions of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point
Reloading ammunition is a passion for many shooters, a way to customize their rounds for optimal performance and save money in the process. Among the components needed are quality bullets, and X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point aims to provide just that. These bullets, manufactured by X-Treme Bullets, are designed for .40 S&W handguns and feature a round nose flat point (RNFP) profile. Their copper plating and restrike process promise consistent dimensions and a smooth finish.
My interest in these bullets stemmed from a frustrating search for reliable and affordable .40 S&W projectiles for my Glock 22. Factory ammunition prices were climbing, and I wanted greater control over the velocity and accuracy of my rounds for target practice and personal defense training. The X-Treme Bullets seemed like a good balance between cost and quality, according to online forums and reloading communities.
Upon receiving the box of 500 bullets, the first thing I noticed was the uniform appearance of the projectiles. They were neatly packed, and the copper plating looked clean and consistent across the entire batch. The weight felt accurate to the stated 165 grains per bullet.
Compared to other plated bullets I’ve used, like Berry’s Manufacturing and RMR (Rocky Mountain Reloading), the X-Treme Bullets seemed to have a slightly thicker plating. This detail promised potentially higher velocities without sacrificing accuracy or leading issues. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic – these bullets looked promising for consistent and reliable reloading.
Real-World Testing: Putting X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point took place at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and mild, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze. I loaded up 50 rounds using a moderate charge of Hodgdon Universal powder, aiming for a velocity of around 1000 fps.
The loading process was smooth and straightforward. The bullets seated easily into the cases with a consistent crimp, thanks to their uniform diameter. At the range, I fired the rounds from my Glock 22 at distances of 10, 15, and 25 yards. I was immediately impressed by the accuracy. At 15 yards, I was consistently achieving groupings of around 2-3 inches. There were no apparent issues with feeding or cycling in my firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and over 1000 rounds reloaded with the X-Treme Bullets, I’ve found them to be remarkably consistent. They have held up well, with no signs of premature wear or deformation in my reloads. The copper plating remained intact even after being subjected to the crimping process.
Cleaning my Glock 22 after range sessions has been easier compared to using unplated lead bullets. Leading in the barrel was minimal, indicating that the copper plating was effectively preventing lead fouling. Compared to my previous experience with other plated bullets, the X-Treme Bullets have proven to be more reliable in terms of accuracy and reduced leading. I’m confident in their ability to provide consistent performance for both target shooting and defensive practice.
Breaking Down the Features of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point
Specifications
- The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point are designed for use in .40 S&W caliber handguns. Their .40-inch diameter ensures proper fit and function in firearms chambered for this cartridge.
- The bullet weight is 165 grains, a common weight for .40 S&W rounds, offering a good balance of recoil and energy transfer. The Round Nose Flat Point (RNFP) profile is designed for reliable feeding in semi-automatic pistols while providing a larger meplat (flat point) for improved energy transfer on impact.
- These bullets feature a lead core, swaged for uniformity, which is then encased in copper plating. The copper plating helps prevent leading in the barrel and allows for higher velocities compared to unplated lead bullets.
- X-Treme Bullets employs a unique restrike process during manufacturing, resulting in a more uniform bullet with a precise diameter and smooth finish. This feature contributes to improved accuracy and consistency in reloading.
Performance & Functionality
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point perform admirably in several key areas. Their accuracy is quite impressive, allowing for tight groupings at typical pistol shooting distances.
These bullets function reliably in semi-automatic pistols, thanks to the RNFP design that facilitates smooth feeding. Their copper plating minimizes leading in the barrel and contributes to consistent velocity.
One potential area for improvement could be the expansion characteristics. While the RNFP design offers improved energy transfer compared to a round nose, it does not provide the controlled expansion of hollow-point bullets.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point is straightforward and functional. The copper plating is smooth and consistent, ensuring proper seating and crimping during the reloading process.
Their weight and shape are conducive to comfortable handling and reloading. There isn’t much to criticize in terms of ergonomics; they are simply bullets designed to be loaded and fired effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point are expected to last indefinitely in proper storage conditions. Their copper plating protects the lead core from oxidation and degradation.
Maintenance is minimal, as the copper plating reduces leading in the barrel, simplifying cleaning. Properly cleaning your firearm after use with these bullets ensures long-term performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
These bullets are primarily designed for reloading and don’t require any specific accessories. Reloading dies and components for .40 S&W are widely available from various manufacturers.
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point are compatible with most standard .40 S&W reloading data, allowing for customization of load recipes based on desired velocity and performance. Load data should always be consulted from a reliable reloading manual.
Pros and Cons of X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point
Pros
- Consistent accuracy for target practice and defensive training.
- Reliable feeding in semi-automatic pistols due to the RNFP design.
- Reduced leading in the barrel compared to unplated lead bullets.
- Uniform bullet dimensions from the restrike process, leading to easier reloading.
- Affordable option for reloaders seeking a balance of quality and cost.
Cons
- RNFP design provides limited expansion compared to hollow-point bullets.
- Plated bullets are not suitable for extremely high velocities due to potential plating separation.
Who Should Buy X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point?
- Perfect for: Reloaders seeking a cost-effective and accurate bullet for .40 S&W target practice.
- Perfect for: Shooters who prioritize reliable feeding in semi-automatic pistols.
- Perfect for: Individuals looking for a balance between cost and performance in their reloads.
Who should skip this product? Shooters who require maximum expansion for self-defense purposes might prefer hollow-point bullets. Also, reloaders planning to push velocities to the extreme end of the load data spectrum might consider jacketed bullets instead.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good reloading manual is essential for safe and effective reloading. High-quality reloading dies and a reliable crimping tool will help ensure consistent and accurate results.
Conclusion on X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point
The X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point offer an excellent value proposition for reloaders seeking consistent accuracy and reliable performance in their .40 S&W handguns. While they may not be the ideal choice for maximum expansion, their RNFP design feeds flawlessly, and their copper plating minimizes leading in the barrel.
The price is definitely justified given their quality and consistency. I would personally recommend these bullets to anyone looking to reload .40 S&W rounds for target practice, training, or general plinking.
If you’re a reloader looking to save money without sacrificing quality, give X-Treme Bullets Pistol Bullets .40 S&W 165 Grain Round Nose Flat Point a try. You might be surprised at the level of performance you can achieve with these affordable and reliable projectiles.