Barnes 275 XPB Combo
If you are looking for an extremely easy to load, soft shooting combination that gives good accuracy, the Barnes #45105 275 grain XPB all copper hollow point bullet, matched with the MMP HPH-12 sabot, and a 3.4 cc Lee Dipper load of Accurate Arms 5744 fulfills these goals. Though all shots depicted below were with 3.4cc "scoop loads" right out of the jar of AA 5744, this approximates 44 grains by weight. Primer used was a Winchester W209, specific rifle is a Savage 10ML-II blued with a factory laminated stock added, using a Burris Signature Select 3-10 x 40mm scope. Velocity of this soft-shooting load is about 1975 fps.
The first two spotter shots after the scope change:
Then, the next four shots forming one hole:
Both the spotter pair and the subsequent 4-shot group can be covered with a nickel. The outstanding accuracy, super-easy loading, and mild recoil make this a pleasing combination with a 6" kill MPBR of about 185 yards with no hassle. On top of that, you have the deep penetration and 100% weight retention of the Barnes 275 XPB working for you as well.
© April, 2006 by Randy Wakeman
