Barnes mz expander or gold dot? I don't shoot over 100 yds, mainly 30 to 60. I use 777 pellets but plan on using BH209 next year.

barnes expander without a doubt.

I my book a premium priced all copper Barnes will most always have better terminal balistics than a Gold Dot/Deep Curl, especially at the longer ranges.

The only concern I have with a Barnes are very close shots.

The Deep Curl will perform 10 to 100 yards and beyond but will not give the same performance that a Barnes will on marginally good shots.

And that is just an opinion.

That's what I'm thinking. The 300's?

Price VS performance the gold dot wins. i agree with sabotloader the only knock on the barnes is that occasionally they fail to open on shorter range shots. the GD/DC will on those type of shots and the terminal performance is real close.

Serioulsy at the ranges you are talking about you would probably get better service out of a 250/260 grain bullet.

If you were shooting over 150 yards - then I would definitely go 300.

I really appreciate all help guys. Don't know why I have the bigger is better mentality. Once again thanks alot.

Barnes 458SOCOM 300gr and as much powder as you can tolerate.

Expander MZs for average loads and ranges. Never had one fail with a non "magnum" load. Spitfire 285gr MZs are just the opposite, they must be driven hard or they can pencil.

GM what exactly is a socom? not familiar with it thanks.

I'd gold dot; no need to pay a premium price