IMO copper bullets retain the petals better but those lost brass petals also create a massive impact shock and multiple wound channels.

IMO for most hunting on non dangerous NA game either is nearly overkill except on the largest game.

My tests with Lehigh .400-185gr-.458-277gr DOA bullets showed massive would channels even though the petals came off and penetration was outstanding.

They cost a tiny bit less than some Barnes depending on weight and caliber.

My personal favorite in my 54 is the Barnes 50cal 275gr Expander MZ. In the 50 i like the good old Barnes .458 Original 300gr Semi Spitzer although they are grossly over priced for a copper and lead bullet.

Next would be the Lehigh .452 250gr DOA. These are plain nasty and penetration is insane. The Lehigh .458 277gr is a nasty lil bugger too.

So IMO brass is better for high end fps/penetration and the Barnes coppers are better at slower velocities just because they are a bit more accurate at lower fps and retain their petals better.

Those nasty sharp copper petals are like food processor blades spinning many thousands of rpms into a hunk of flesh. The trauma on impact is excellent and the damage just gets worse after impact but with a bit less penetration depending on the game and angle of the shot.

Their is no best IMO until you figure in all the game and hunting situation/area and if you are in an area with game that may hunt you instead.

Scott