Barnes are not new out west, they are just expensive. Since CA went nonlead, 4 years ago Barnes had all the market for a couple of years. We have had EXCELLENT success with converting to Barnes. Sub 1" groups in all calibers is the norm. However, the Varmint Grenade is a bust. the Nosler BT non lead is the best bullet we have found in the under 60 grain bullets (40 gr. .223 and the 55 gr. .243 are sub 1/2" shooters). One other thing. You have to use the Barnes reloading data or you will not get good results.