Deer + Barnes XBT.

[Fl Still Hunter]

Has anyone used the Barnes XBT 140 Gr on deer size game ? What were the results good, bad or ugly ?? I will be doing some hand loading for a 7 Mil Mag, please advise. TJK

Sniper

[eldeguello]

They'll work OK, but are a little on the tough side for lightly constructed game. Save them for at least elk size critters, or for the big bears!!

Keep yore powder dry!!

[jmcd]

I tried Barnes in 3 of my rifles ( all 30 cal )with at least 4 different powders and couldn't get the accuracy that I get with Nosler.

[Deleted User]

[Deleted by Admins]

[noway]

Tim,
That should be an excellent deer bullet.
I have shot deer with the 130 grain XBT. Great velocity and the bullet holds together at any velocity for complete penetration.
I personally have gone to the 150 Nosler Partition. It has more expansion which drops the deer faster and the base holds together so I still get complete penetration. Also get more consistent accuracy.
If your barrel is not VERY clean I experienced inconsistent accuracy with the Barnes.

[Fl Still Hunter]

Thank You for all of Your input. I have been testing this load all weekend long, messing with powder weight and OAL. It seems the XBT works best for my rifle right up on the lands and groves and I mean touching. As hot and fast as thay will go seems to be the best acuracy. Three shot groups that can be covered with a dime at 100 yds. Not bad from what I have been hearing fot the X bullets. Now all I need is an ELK !!!!! TJK

Sniper

[handloader1]

Tim:

You are a lucky man Barnes X is a great bullet. So far, all my rifles like them also.

[halcon]

I use Barnes 140 gr in a 280 Rem and 7mm mag. I have never had any problems with accuracy and can hold around a 1' ' five shot group with both rifles . Penetration and expansion has been good on any game that I have used them on ,much better than I got out of Nosler .284s .