Berger Bulletin

Overview
If you’re interested in calculating trajectories for your bullets, you can download this free ballistics program from the Berger website.

The program is basic enough to be easy to use, but flexible enough to allow you to calculate custom ballistics for your rifle and load. The program accounts for all the basic external ballistic parameters including bullet BC and muzzle velocity, atmospherics, uphill/downhill shooting, etc. The output tabulates velocity, energy and time of flight as a function of range. Bullet path and wind deflection are displayed in your choice of inches, centimeters, MOA or MILS.

Here are some instructions and tips for using the Berger Ballistics Program

The inputs to the program are separated into the following categories: Bullet, Atmosphere, Sights, and Output Options.

The bullet inputs are straightforward. The BC can be entered in reference to either the G1 or G7 standard. See this article on our web log to learn about the difference between G1 and G7. You can find the G1 or G7 BC for your bullet either printed on the bullet box label, or on our products page. For accurate results, you should measure the muzzle velocity with a good chronograph. If you don’t have access to a chronograph, you can estimate the muzzle velocity based on your load data.

Next is the Atmosphere input set. This is where you input the air temperature, pressure and humidity as well as the wind speed and direction. The air pressure input is the station, or absolute air pressure for the shooters location. If you want to use the standard air pressure for an altitude, you can hover the mouse over the word ‘Pressure’, and it will display a chart showing the standard air pressure for altitudes up to 10,000 feet.

The wind direction input has to be a whole number, from 1 thru 12. This is the clock direction which the wind is blowing from.

The Sights input block has only 3 inputs including sight height (distance of sight line above bore line), zero range, and look angle. Look angle applies if you’re shooting uphill or downhill.

You can choose English or Metric with the radio button below the sights input.

For the output options, you can select the max range, range increment, and output units for bullet drop and wind deflection. You can select to display these in Inches, Centimeters, MOA or MILS.

After you’ve entered all the inputs, clicking on calculate will populate the output window with the ballistic data that’s customized for your application.

Printing the output
In order to print the output, click on the ‘print’ menu in the upper left corner of the program window. Select: Save printable text file.

How Accurate is the Program?
The Berger Bullets ballistics program integrates the equations of projectile motion using a 4th order Runge-Kutta numerical solution. That means the program outputs will be as accurate as the inputs you give it. The ability to calculate ballistics based on the G7 standard is a significant improvement over programs that only use the conventional G1 standard, especially for long range calculations. See this article for an explanation of G7 BC’s.

Tips for best results
As stated above, the accuracy of the ballistic solution is only as accurate as the inputs you give it. The advertised BC’s for Berger bullets are established by actual field firing tests over long range and are very accurate. Using the properly referenced BC (G7 vs G1) for the bullet you’re modeling is important. For any bullet with a boat tail, we recommend using the G7 BC. Flat based bullets have a drag profile that matches the G1 standard better. The products page lists both values for each bullet, with the recommended value highlighted.

Knowing your true muzzle velocity is important when calculating external ballistics. It’s best to measure your muzzle velocity directly with a chronograph.

If you want a truly accurate long range trajectory prediction, you can’t ignore atmospheric effects. This is especially true the farther you get from standard conditions (sea level altitude, 59 degrees Fahrenheit, 0% humidity). If you want a valid trajectory for high above sea level, you need to enter an air pressure that corresponds to your altitude. You can see a table of air pressure by hovering the mouse on the word ‘Pressure’ in the ballistics program.

Last but not least, it’s important to verify the most important link between the calculated ballistics and your point of impact: your scope. If the ballistics program calculates 30.0 MOA of drop for a particular shot, and you dial your scope to 30.0 MOA, are your sure it’s applying exactly 30.0 MOA? In reality, many scopes have enough error in them to cause misses at long range. It’s important to verify the actual value of your scope clicks by firing groups at short range. Shoot a group at your rifle’s zero, adjust the scope a known amount and shoot another group. Measure the distance between the two groups to see if the scope actually moves your point of aim by the desired amount. If it doesn’t, you need to apply a correction factor to your scope in order for the output from the ballistics program to be accurate for your particular scope.

Support
The page where you download this program from has instructions for getting it to work on your computer. If you experience any difficulty getting the program to install and run, or if you have any questions about how to use the program, please email Bryan Litz at: bryan.litz@bergerbullets.com

Bryan Litz
Chief Ballistician

Overview
In our continuing effort to provide shooters with the best possible bullets and information, this article will address a recent change made to one of our most popular bullets: the 6mm 105 grain VLD Target bullet. Note that this change applies to the 6mm 105 grain VLD Target bullet only, not the VLD Hunting bullet.

Making bullets is all about consistency. Precision depends on it, shooters demand it. Occasionally there are reasons to change something in the bullet making process which results in new bullets being different than the old. We feel it is our obligation to communicate when these changes are made, the effect on the end product, and what that means in practical terms for the shooter.

Cause
The reason for this particular change has to do with challenges presented by the thicker jackets of the target bullets. Master Bulletsmith Eric Stecker explains that: “There are differences when forming bullets using thicker jackets. In the case of the 6mm 105 gr VLD Target these differences produce several undesirable results that we have been working hard to resolve. These results include frequent ejection pin failure and nose forming inconsistencies. Although we have been successful at making some quantities of good bullets on the current die this change will allow us to make more consistent bullets in greater volume.”

(*click image to see full-size)
Effect
Now that the reason for the change has been explained, I’m going to discuss the consequences of the change. How does the new die with the larger knock-out pin affect the bullet? Figure 2 below is a split image showing the old bullet tip on the left compared to the new bullet tip on the right.

Effect on seating depth
The ogive radius of the new die is very close (within measurement tolerances) of the old die. That means that if you have an established seating depth for the old 105 VLD, there shouldn’t be any difference for the new bullet. The seating die seats the bullet by pushing on its ogive, and puts the bearing surface a certain distance from the lands (jump or jam). Because the ogive radius is the same for the new die and the old die, the jump or jam will be the same. Note that since the new bullet is shorter in the tip, it will result in slightly shorter COAL, but that’s not an issue for precision since the jump or jam distance isn’t affected.

Effect on BC
Since the new bullet nose is shorter and has a wider meplat, the drag is higher. The result is a lower BC for the new bullet. How much lower? Figure 2 shows that the G7 BC is reduced from .272 to .251, a reduction of 8% from the previous value.

This new bullet stands to benefit a great deal from aftermarket bullet pointing which will close up the meplat to a finer point. Pointing the new 105 VLD will yield a greater improvement in BC than it did for the old 105 VLD, but you won’t be able to re-claim all of the BC by pointing because the new ogive is shorter. Note that it is not recommended to close the points on bullets used for hunting because it may have adverse effects on the terminal performance.

Summary
In conclusion, the new 6mm 105 grain VLD Target bullets beginning with lot# 2421 will have a larger meplat and lower BC. The change will not have an impact on seating depth, but will result in a different COAL. The change does not apply to the 6mm 105 VLD Hunting bullets, which will continue to be made using a die with the smaller knock out pin.

Note that this is the first case where there is a significant difference in the external design between the Berger VLD Hunting and Target bullets. For the time being, every other caliber and weight of VLD shares the same external design in the Target (thick jacket) and Hunting (standard jacket) configuration. We’ll keep you informed if/when changes like this are made to other bullets.

A look at accuracy and precision

If you’re a long range hunter (varmints to big game) or tactical shooter, or just anyone interested in hitting small targets at long range with one or few rifle shots, this message is for you. If you’re a long range prone, F-class, or Benchrest shooter, this may still be interesting for you but not as relevant given that these disciplines allow sighter shots before a record string is fired.

Far too often I hear of shooters agonizing over improving the precision of their hunting rifle from 1.0 MOA groups to .5 MOA groups, or from .5 MOA groups to .25 MOA groups. While a precise rifle/ammo combination that’s capable of shooting small groups is an asset to the long range shooter, the challenge of hitting targets at long range involves more than just shooting small groups.

Group size is a measure of precision. Regardless of where the group is on the target, a small group means good precision. However, to hit targets at long range, you also need accuracy. Accuracy is the measure of how close your shots hit in relation to your point of aim. The importance of accuracy is often overlooked because many shooters think that: “Precision is the hard part, and once I get my group size down, all I have to do is adjust my scope to hit in the center of the target and I’m good-to-go”. If you’re only interested in hitting targets at short range, this logic is sound. However, if you’re trying to hit distant targets where range, wind, and other variables have a great effect on your bullets’ trajectory, then accuracy is not necessarily so easy to achieve. You have to understand the effects of bullet drop, wind deflection, rifle cant, shooting at uphill/downhill angles, etc. If you don’t know how to measure and account for these variables, you won’t hit your target regardless of how much precision your rifle is capable of.

The point of this article is not to teach the reader about all of the details and variables involved in long range shooting. The point is just to provoke some thought about the relative importance of accuracy and precision in certain shooting objectives. As with many challenges, the greatest success is often realized when a balanced approach is taken as opposed to focusing completely on one aspect of the task while ignoring others. A dragster with the most powerful engine doesn’t win if the tires don’t get good traction.

Precision is very important, but for those hunters who spend all their time at the loading bench trying to make a 1 MOA rifle shoot ½ MOA groups, my advice is to consider a more balanced approach and do things to improve your accuracy as well as your precision. Get out and practice shooting the rifle at long range. Learn how your rifles’ point of impact is affected by shooting from various positions, not just a solid bench rest. Learn about the variables that affect your trajectory and how to correct your sights so the bullet hits your point of aim. Applying effort in these areas will improve your accuracy, and your success at hitting targets at long range.

Bryan Litz
Ballistician

For centuries now, science has been helping us gain a more accurate understanding of our world. The branch of science we care about as shooters is known as ballistics. The science of ballistics is well developed and understood by those who study it, but the tools and information being used by average shooters is not necessarily optimal for the shooter’s applications. In other words, there is a better, more accurate way for shooters to use ballistics to help them predict trajectories and hit targets. The purpose of this article is to present a better way for shooters to calculate ballistics.

What is a Ballistic Coefficient?
Most shooters, especially long range rifle shooters, are familiar with the Ballistic Coefficient (BC). Without getting into the math, I’ll define the ballistic coefficient in words as: The ability of the bullet to maintain velocity, in comparison to a ‘standard projectile’. A high BC bullet can maintain velocity better than a low BC bullet under the same conditions. All measures of ballistic performance including drop and wind deflection are related to the bullet’s ability to maintain velocity. In short; the higher the BC, the better the all-around ballistic performance of the bullet will be.

How a Ballistic Coefficient is used
Details of ballistic trajectories can be predicted with computer programs using all the relevant variables, including BC. As with all prediction programs; the accuracy of the outputs depends on the accuracy of the inputs. Here is where we have to examine the real meaning and implications of using a Ballistic Coefficient to characterize the bullet’s ability to maintain velocity.

It’s a relatively well known fact that the BC of a bullet is different at different velocities. Not many shooters know why it changes, or what the consequences are. To understand why a BC changes at different speeds, we have to go back to the definition of BC, which is: The ability of the bullet to maintain velocity, in comparison to a ‘standard projectile’. It’s the ‘standard projectile’ part of the definition that we need to key in on. What is the ‘standard projectile’? What does it look like?

To date, the ‘standard projectile’ used to define BCs for the entire sporting arms industry is the G1 standard projectile. The G1 standard projectile which is shown in Figure 1 has a short nose, flat base, and bears more resemblance to a pistol bullet or an old unjacketed lead black powder cartridge rifle bullet than to a modern long range rifle bullet.

The reason why the BC of a modern long range bullet changes so much at different velocities is because modern bullets are so different in shape compared to the G1 standard that its BC is based on. In other words, the drag of a modern long range bullet changes differently than the G1 standard projectile, so the coefficient relating the two (the ballistic coefficient) has to change with velocity.

There are several ways to manage the problems caused by the dependence of BC on velocity. One way is to use a G1 BC that’s averaged for the speed range you’re interested in. This will get you close, but what if the BC of the bullet is advertised for a speed range that’s different than what you’re interested in? It’s not easy to adjust the BC for different average velocities. Another way to deal with the problem of a velocity dependant BC is to give the BC in several velocity ‘bands’ (Sierra bullets uses this approach to advertise the BCs of their bullets). This can be an accurate approach, but it leaves a lot of room for misinterpretation. For example, many shooters don’t understand why there are different BCs and choose the wrong one. Furthermore, not all ballistics programs allow you to input multiple BCs. In short; the use of the non-representative G1 standard (Figure 1) to define BC is responsible for the velocity dependence and associated problems with BCs.

A better standard for long range bullets
If you look at the G1 standard projectile again in Figure 1, you might think; “it’s too bad there isn’t a standard that’s more representative for modern long range bullets”. In fact, there are several standard projectiles, all with different shapes, that are much more representative of modern long range bullets than the G1 standard. The standard that bears the closest resemblance to most modern long range bullets is the G7 standard, shown in Figure 2.

As you can see, the G7 standard projectile, with its long boat tail and pointed ogive bears a much stronger resemblance to a modern long range bullet than the G1 standard projectile. As a result, the BC of a modern long range bullet that’s referenced to the G7 standard is constant for all velocities! In other words, a trajectory that’s calculated with a ‘G7 BC’ doesn’t suffer from the same velocity dependence problems and inaccuracies as calculations that are made with a G1 BC.

Another benefit of using G7 BC’s is that it allows a more fair comparison between bullets. For example, consider two .30 caliber 168 grain match bullets from different manufacturers. Even if both projectiles are identical in shape and weight, it’s possible for them to have different advertised BCs if the BCs are calculated for different velocities. For instance, if one of the bullet’s BC is calculated for a 3000 fps (muzzle velocity) and the other is calculated for an average velocity between 3000 fps and 1500 fps, then the BC that’s based only on muzzle velocity will be higher, but less relevant for long range shooting than the average BC. In other words, the two bullets actually have the same BC, but the ‘smoke and mirrors’ that results from the velocity dependence of G1 BC creates the illusion that one bullet is better than the other. If you considered the G7 BC of the two bullets, it would be the same for all speeds.

You may observe that not all bullets look more like the G7 standard, and that’s true. For the short, flat based, blunt nosed bullets, the G1 standard is actually more representative. For that reason, BCs for flat based bullets should continue to be referenced to the G1 standard. In other words, the G7 BC is better for boat tailed bullets, while G1 BCs are better for flat based bullets.

Why were we stuck with G1 for so long?
One obvious difference between G1 BCs and G7 BCs is that the numeric value of the G7 BC is lower than the numeric value of the G1 BC. For example, if a bullet has a G1 BC of .550, the G7 BC will be close to .282 (same bullet). Even though the G7 BC of .282 is a much more accurate representation of the bullet at all speeds, the numeric value of the G7 BC is lower. If you know anything about marketing, then it’s obvious why we’ve been stuck with G1 BCs for so long. Since the G1 standard projectile is the highest drag standard, BCs referenced to that standard will be higher than BCs referenced to any other standard. As we know, when it comes to marketing, the facts and quality of information is often compromised in order to present a more favorable advertisement. For many years, bullet makers have known(*) that the G1 standard is a poor standard for long range bullets but continue to use it. Why? One reason is because it’s believed that the first company to advertise G7 BCs will ‘confuse’ people, and the lower numeric value of the G7 BC will push people away from their product.

It’s easy to understand the fear of being the first to do something new. It will take time to explain and it may hurt sales at first. That’s OK. At Berger Bullets we are committed to the success of shooters. Mostly that means making the best bullets possible. That commitment also includes providing shooters with the most suitable and accurate information so they can use those bullets most effectively. Berger’s commitment to the shooter is why we are making the leap to G7 referenced BCs. The change will take time to get used to, but in the end, shooters will be empowered to make better informed decisions about their equipment. In the end, shooters will be able to calculate more accurate trajectories. In the end, the other bullet companies will follow and provide G7 BCs for their long range bullets because it’s the right thing to do. In the end, this change will mean greater success for shooters.

(*-Sierra bullets wrote an article which acknowledges that G7 referenced BCs are more appropriate for modern long range bullets: http://www.exteriorballistics.com/ebexplained/articles/the_ballistic_coefficient.pdf )

Using the G7 BC: Calculating trajectories
Most modern ballistics programs are being created with the ability to use BCs that are referenced to different standards (G1, G5, G7, etc). Calculating a trajectory with a G7 BC is as simple as selecting “G7 BC” in the program, and giving the program a G7 BC instead of a G1 BC. All the other inputs are handled the same. There are many free ballistics programs that can calculate trajectories using G7 BCs including the well known free online calculator from JBM (http://www.eskimo.com/~jbm/cgi-bin/jbmtraj-5.0.cgi). The JBM program is extremely accurate when given accurate inputs. JBM’s page also has links to free ballistics programs that can be downloaded and run on your computer when not connected to the internet. One program that’s free for download and has the ability to use G7 BCs is AlBal (http://www.eskimo.com/~jbm/software/software.html).

Using the G7 BC: Comparing bullets
One way that BC is used by shooters is to compare the relative performance of bullets. Comparing bullets by BC is only possible if the BCs are referenced to the same standard. For example, if you know the G1 BC of one bullet is .500, and the G7 BC for another bullet is .230, it’s impossible to tell which is better just from the BCs. Since other bullet companies don’t yet advertise G7 BCs for their bullets, how is it possible to compare other brands bullets to Berger’s G7 BC? Ideally, one tester would test the bullets from all the companies using the same method, and report the G7 BCs. I have recently completed such a study and the test results including G7 BC’s for over 175 bullets of all major brands are published in one book. The book is called: Applied Ballistics for Long Range Shooting and is available from Applied Ballistics, LLC (http://www.appliedballisticsllc.com/index_files/Book.htm). I began the testing and writing of this book 2 years before I became the Chief Ballistician for Berger Bullets. I used the same test procedure (repeatable within +/- 1%) to measure the G1 and G7 BCs for all brands of bullets so meaningful comparisons can be made between brands.

Conclusion
Science has a good track record as a method for reaching accurate conclusions. Ballistics is the science of shooting, and the use of the G1 standard has been a glaring error in the way that we shooters apply our science. For too long now, the unfortunate influences of marketing and advertising have kept us from being able to use our science to its fullest potential. As part of our commitment to the success of shooters, Berger Bullets is bringing the application of small arms ballistics out of the marketing hype and G1 dark ages and offering accurate and properly referenced G7 BCs for our long range bullets.

All of the pieces are now in place for shooters to take full advantage of this more accurate kind of BC. Berger now provides G7 BCs for our bullets. The book: Applied Ballistics for Long Range Shooting provides G7 BCs for all other brands of bullets. Ballistics programs are available that can calculate trajectories using the G7 BCs. In conclusion; everything is now available for shooters to take immediate advantage of this new type of BC and do everything that was possible with the old G1 BCs, only better.

Bryan Litz
Ballistician

Barnes recently published test results on their website at the following url:

www.barnesbullets.com/information/bullet-talk/lab-tests/

*NOTE - In response to this article, Barnes rewrote the introduction of their report to address some of these points.

I encourage you to read their report before you continue reading this article. They shot Berger, Nosler and Barnes bullets into bone encased in ballistic gelatin at impact velocities consistent with (according to Barnes) 100 yard and 1,000 yard shots using a 7mm WSM and a 300 Weatherby. They also list accuracy results which I will address later.

Based on the opening text at the top of the report it seems that Barnes is working to provide the hunter with reasons why he should use Barnes instead of Berger or Nosler. The opening text says that “(Barnes is) finding that more hunters are choosing one bullet and discounting another simply because of a BC value. For hunting applications, frankly, this is unethical and careless for many reasons.”

Since Berger’s have the highest BCs among all bullets used for hunting we believe they are referring to hunters who are choosing Berger Hunting VLD and we couldn’t disagree more with their comment. In truth, Barnes’ comments and test results have not been able to provide any factual evidence supporting their opinion that it is “unethical and careless” to choose the high BC, highly successful Berger Hunting VLD. Instead they have proven with their test results why Berger Hunting VLDs work so well on game. They also published some very unsafe information but I will get to that later.

Marketing Hype at Work

Regarding their opinion that it is “unethical and careless” to choose a bullet based on BC we disagree completely (of course) but not just because our bullets have high BCs. The fact is one of the most significant aspects of ethical hunting is the ability for a hunter to achieve proper shot placement. There is no arguing that terminal performance is important however if you can’t put the bullet in the right spot construction means very little.

A bullet with a high BC provides a hunter with less drop and drift along with higher impact velocity. Combine increased velocity retention (better drop and drift performance) with Match Grade quality (not Made for Match Shooting, which is different) and you get a bullet that is easier to put in the right spot. To ignore this important aspect of a hunting bullet’s performance is “unethical and careless”.

Another important consideration in choosing a bullet that is ethical for hunting is, of course, terminal performance (how the bullet performs upon impact with the animal). Barnes states that “not nearly enough focus is on the proper construction and function of the bullet.” The reality is most hunters don’t have the time, facilities or materials needed to focus their attention on the construction and function of hunting bullets. Hunters rely on bullet makers to provide products that work properly for their listed purpose. Hunters then use these bullets in the field and each product (like all products) develops a performance reputation.

Berger’s rapid growth as a popular game hunting bullet is due to producing consistently repeatable, successful results in the field. Why it works so well is hardly worth focusing on if you are a satisfied hunter with better things to do with your time. I believe that what Barnes wanted to say is “not nearly enough focus is on the proper construction and function of the (Barnes) bullet.”

Barnes marketing hype continues with the opinion that “a match bullet is designed to punch paper, NOT to take down big game at close or even longer distances.” To me this is one of the most ridiculous and insulting statements a bullet maker can say out loud to hunters. Has no one ever considered that you can make hunting bullets using Match Grade quality materials, procedures and tolerance!? Of course you can! Any bullet maker can if they want to but they choose not too because either they don’t know how or it is easier to make bullets of less than Match Grade quality.

Personally, I believe that bullet makers who believe that hunters don’t want Match Grade quality in their hunting bullets are out of touch with the advancements in hunting rifle manufacturing quality. With both improved factory hunting rifles and the ever increasing number of custom built hunting rifles we are seeing Match quality performance becoming the expected result. Many hunting rifles are capable of sub ½ MOA and even ¼ MOA accuracy. This level of performance is unlikely with anything less than Match Grade quality hunting bullets.

I still shake my head when I hear someone say “Match Grade bullets are for punching paper”. Not anymore! To be clear, many Match Grade bullets are only for targets and not suitable for hunting. We make several bullets that are meant for target only. They say “Target” right on the label. What I am saying is that “Hunting” and “Match Grade” can and do coexist. Berger Hunting VLDs say “Hunting” on the label and the color of the box (blaze orange) makes the intended purpose of these bullets very clear even though the label also says Match Grade.

Important and Dangerous Science Based Inaccuracies

Barnes published test data in their report that is important to discuss in the interest of establishing science based fact. The first one I’ll comment on is less scientific than it seems but can’t be called marketing hype since it is printed test result data and not an opinion. They display two charts listing group size for five groups; each group is made with five shots (similar to benchrest competitions with which we are very familiar at Berger).

Bergers have been comparison tested for precision and accuracy against the best target and hunting bullets for decades by gun writers, at the range for personal enjoyment, in the field by hunters and in rifle competitions of every size. The results from these comparisons are well known by most serious rifle shooters. The result that Barnes publishes listing that their bullets shoot nearly half as small group sizes as Berger is an unusual result that many who have shot both brands will find hard to agree with. I am not saying their results are fictitious as I have no evidence to suggest they are. I am only saying that it is inconsistent with typical results.

Barnes does state under each chart that “Berger bullets typically produce better accuracy when shot in a throat designed for VLD style bullets.” This indicates that even Barnes knows that their results are very unusual although we are not sure what they mean by “throat designed for VLD style bullets.” There are no throat designs made specifically for the VLD that I am aware of in any hunting or competition rifles that have proven to be more successful than typical throat configurations.

Barnes goes further with science based inaccuracies with the velocities they publish. This may not have been intentional but the results are dangerous. I am referring specifically to the velocity shown for all the bullets listed under the 1,000 yard performance through bone into ballistic gelatin images. Before I get into that I must explain how I came to these conclusions. The chart below lists the data. Using the velocity Barnes listed for tests at 100 yards and the BC for each bullet you can determine the velocity from the muzzle all the way to 1,000 yards. I encourage others to do this with their own software.

For several years Bryan Litz has been fire testing nearly every popular long range bullet to establish true and comparable BC data. Bryan’s efforts have produced a wealth of information which will soon be available to all shooters in his book Applied Ballistics for Long Range Shooting. For this article I was able to use Bryan’s G1 BCs for all the bullets listed except for the Barnes 7mm 150 gr TTSX. For this bullet I used Barnes published BC of .450.

Bryan found through his extensive testing that Barnes published BCs are typically 5% higher than actual. This is likely due to the fact that Barnes’ BCs are tested over 300 yards; Bryan’s are tested over 600 yards. In other words, Barnes published BCs may be perfectly accurate for the speed range they are tested, and the 5% discrepancy is likely due to the velocity dependence of BC. In this case I left the BC at .450 since I do not have scientific evidence that this particular BC is incorrect.

Using this data there are several facts that reveal themselves. The most important regarding hunter safety is Barnes’ published 1,000 yard velocities. These velocities are not achievable using the velocities reported for the 100 yard gelatin test. More importantly, the muzzle velocities needed to achieve the reported 1,000 yard velocities are so high that they are at best not achievable at all and at worst extremely unsafe should a hunter attempt to achieve their published 1,000 yard velocities for any of the bullets listed.

Another fact that reveals itself related to down range velocity is Barnes’ focus on 1,000 yards. If you achieve the muzzle velocities needed to match their 100 yard reported velocities (which are hotter than most manuals list but are not out of reach by those who work up their loads safely) the point at which the bullet’s velocity falls below 1,800 fps is at distances less than 1,000 yards.

All Berger Hunting VLDs perform effectively at 1,800 fps impact velocity or faster. On my chart, I list the yardage where each bullet’s velocity is slightly faster than 1,800 fps in the “Suggested Lethal Range” column. You can clearly see that none of the bullets listed are going 1,800 fps or faster at 1,000 yards. (I accept that the other brands may have slower velocities at which they can still work but if impact velocity is much slower than 1,800 fps kinetic energy falls below generally recommended levels)

Unethical and Careless?

Based on the results from their testing Barnes’ focus on 1,000 yards is frankly confusing. First, they report impact velocities at 1,000 yards for all the bullets tested that are not safely achievable in the cartridges used. Then they ignore entirely that none of these bullets are suitable for 1,000 yard game hunting. They are all too light and are going too slow for this application. Berger Hunting VLDs are able to effectively reach farther than the other brands but even we don’t recommend game hunting at 1,000 yards.

I suggest that those who seriously consider trying to hit an animal with a Barnes bullet at 1,000 yards based on the provided data should reconsider this decision. Ask any serious 1,000 yard competitive target shooter if they would use any Barnes bullets in a match and see what they say. Keep in mind they are shooting at a known 1,000 yard range that will not change and on a target that won’t move and they still won’t do it during a match.

Highly experienced hunters who take shots at 1,000 yards do so fully aware of the risk and after much experience at that distance with the right gear that they know works. I am not suggesting above that hunting at 1,000 yards isn’t done successfully but those who do it are on the extreme edge of the game hunting bell curve. Long range hunting for most hunters is at a range less than 1,000 yards at which they know for sure they can make the shot. For some hunters, long range hunting is done at 300 yards. For others long range hunting is at 600 yards. Hunting at these long ranges is ethical if the hunter uses the right bullet, is practiced using their gear and certain they will make the shot. So I must ask the question, based entirely on what Barnes’ report suggests, who is being unethical and careless?

Barnes Proves Why Berger Hunting VLDs Work on Game

Setting aside the “who is acting ethically” question for a moment the Barnes’ bone in gelatin test is meant to show terminal performance on impact with bone and tissue. Barnes specializes in deep penetration and high weight retention bullets. This is something they have been doing for a long time. They don’t want to consider that there are other ways hunting bullets can be successful. Instead of evolving, Barnes will stay focused on convincing hunters that their way is the best and only way hunting bullets should work.

It is our position at Berger that an enhanced alternative option to this type of bullet is a bullet that penetrates the first inches of tissue and bone and then dumps its energy through fragmentation into the vital area of the animal. Barnes’ tests prove that their bullets still work the same as they always have and that our bullets perform exactly as we describe.

You can clearly see from Barnes’ images of their bone in ballistic gelatin that the Berger Hunting VLD penetrates through bone and then fragments into the area of the animal’s vital organs. This action cuts through tissue (internal organs) and transfers the bullets energy as this fragmentation occurs. This transfer of energy produces tremendous hydrostatic shock (much more so than a lower BC bullet that arrives on target with a reduced velocity). When the hydrostatic shock and the torn tissue (from the fragments) combine it creates a consistently lethal and larger wound cavity deep inside the animal’s vital organs area.

The extensive tissue and organ destruction along with higher levels of energy dumped into the internal tissue usually puts the animal immediately into shock which drops them in their tracks. They quickly succumb to blood pressure loss and/or multiple organ failure. Those animals that manage to stay on their feet after impact from a Berger Hunting VLD will not last long with this amount of internal destruction. This is why we say that “They won’t run away from a Berger.” Some might call this slogan marketing hype but it is in fact a brief description of the actual results you can depend on when using a Berger Hunting VLD.

From the beginning we have promoted Berger Hunting VLD as an alternative option. Bergers do not act like Barnes or Swift or any other deep penetrating and high weight retaining bullet. A Berger Hunting VLD does not dump its energy into the ground or tree on the other side of the animal. Our bullets do not create an exit wound (exit wounds can occur depending on animal size and impact velocity) for the specific purpose of creating a blood trail so a hunter can track their wounded game. We prefer that hunters enjoy their results immediately by watching the animal go to the ground when it is shot. We also prefer that the animal die quickly with a minimal amount of needless suffering.

Final Thoughts

Game hunting is done by an individual or with a few close friends. We understand that it is a very personal and frankly spiritual experience. Each hunter knows what type of experience they are looking for and each hunter should go into the field completely confident that their gear will get the job done the way they expect it to work. We understand that every hunt has the potential to be a once in a lifetime experience.

If you feel you need a deep penetrating, high weight retaining bullet to have the best experience then by all means please shoot Barnes or any of the many others brands that produce the same result. If you understand how the Bergers work differently and this performance appeals to you then give the Berger Hunting VLD a try. Based on the overwhelming number of positive feedback we are getting from hunters who already use them on game I can assure you that you will not be disappointed.

Eric Stecker
Master Bulletsmith

Background

VLD bullets are designed with a secant ogive. This ogive shape allows bullets to be more efficient in flight (retain more velocity = less drop and wind deflection). While this result is desirable for many rifle shooters the secant ogive on the VLD bullets produces another result in many rifle. It can be difficult to get the VLD to group well (poor accuracy).

For years we encouraged shooters to use a base of cartridge to end of bearing surface OAL (I will use the term COAL to represent this dimension) which allows the VLD to touch the rifling or to be jammed in the rifling. This provided excellent results for many shooters but there were others who did not achieve top performance with the VLD jammed in their rifling. These shooters were left with the belief that the VLD bullets just won’t shoot in their rifle.

Other groups of shooters were discouraged by our recommendation to touch the rifling. Some of these shooters knew that at some point during a target competition they will be asked to remove a live round. With the bullet jammed in the rifling there was a good chance the bullet will stick in the barrel which could result in an action full of powder. This is hard on a shooter during a match.

Yet another group of shooters who were discouraged by our recommendation to touch the rifling are those who feed through magazines or have long throats. Magazine length rounds loaded with VLDs could not touch the lands in most rifles (this is the specific reason that for years we said VLD bullets do not work well in a magazine). When a rifle could be single fed but was chambered with a long throat a loaded round that was as long as possible still would not touch the rifling.

Until recently, shooters who suffered from these realities were believed to be unable to achieve success with VLD bullets. Admittedly, we would receive the occasional report that a rifle shot very well when jumping the VLD bullets but we discounted these reports as anomalies. It was not until the VLD became very popular as a game hunting bullet that we were then able to learn the truth about getting the VLD bullets to shoot well in a large majority of rifles.

After we proved that the Berger VLD bullets are consistently and exceptionally capable of putting game down quickly we started promoting the VLD to hunters. We were nervous at first as we believe the VLD needed to be in the rifling to shoot well and we also knew that most hunters use a magazine and SAMMI chambers. Our ears were wide open as the feedback was received. It was surprising to hear that most shooters described precision results by saying “this is the best my rifle has ever shot.”

We scratched our heads about this for awhile until we started getting feedback from hunters who were competition shooters as well. Many were the same guys who were telling us for years that the VLDs shoot great when jumped. Since a much larger number of shooters were using the VLD bullets with a jump we started comparing all the feedback and have discovered the common characteristics in successful reports which gave us the information needed to get VLD working in your rifle. We were able to relay these characteristics to several shooters who were struggling with VLD bullets. Each shooter reported success after applying our recommendation.

Solution

The following has been verified by numerous shooters in many rifles using bullets of different calibers and weights. It is consistent for all VLD bullets. What has been discovered is that VLD bullets shoot best when loaded to a COAL that puts the bullet in a “sweet spot”. This sweet spot is a band .030 to .040 wide and is located anywhere between jamming the bullets into the lands and .150 jump off the lands.

Note: When discussing jam and jump I am referring to the distance from the area of the bearing surface that engages the rifling and the rifling itself. There are many products that allow you to measure these critical dimensions. Some are better than others. I won’t be going into the methods of measuring jam and jump. If you are not familiar with this aspect of reloading it is critically important that you understand this concept before you attempt this test.

Many reloaders feel (and I tend to agree) that meaningful COAL adjustments are .002 to .005. Every once in a while I might adjust the COAL by .010 but this seems like I am moving the bullet the length of a football field. The only way a shooter will be able to benefit from this situation is to let go of this opinion that more than .010 change is too much (me included).

Trying to find the COAL that puts you in the sweet spot by moving .002 to .010 will take so long the barrel may be worn out by the time you sort it out if you don’t give up first. Since the sweet spot is .030 to .040 wide we recommend that you conduct the following test to find your rifles VLD sweet spot.

Load 24 rounds at the following COAL if you are a target competition shooter who does not worry about jamming a bullet:
1. .010 into (touching) the lands (jam) 6 rounds
2. .040 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds
3. .080 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds
4. .120 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds

Load 24 rounds at the following COAL if you are a hunter (pulling a bullet out of the case with your rifling while in the field can be a hunt ending event which must be avoided) or a competition shooter who worries about pulling a bullet during a match:
1. .010 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds
2. .050 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds
3. .090 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds
4. .130 off the lands (jump) 6 rounds

Shoot 2 (separate) 3 shot groups in fair conditions to see how they group. The remarkable reality of this test is that one of these 4 COALs will outperform the other three by a considerable margin. Once you know which one of these 4 COAL shoots best then you can tweak the COAL +/- .002 or .005. Taking the time to set this test up will pay off when you find that your rifle is capable of shooting the VLD bullets very well (even at 100 yards).

Regards,
Eric Stecker
Master Bulletsmith

As shooters of low drag spin stabilized projectiles, we’re compelled to understand the twist requirements of our bullets. In most cases, this is a simple matter of looking up what the manufacturers recommended twist rate is and making sure our barrel satisfies it. Occasionally you can get away with using a slower twist than what’s recommended if you’re shooting in favorable conditions. The manufacturers recommended twist rate is intended to ensure stability for any and all possible shooting situations, which means it’s sometimes faster than necessary for favorable or even average conditions.

This is exactly the case with our new .204 caliber 55 grain Long Range BT bullet. Because of this bullet’s weight and length, it has a faster twist requirement than most other .20 caliber bullets. We recommend a minimum twist of 1:8” to ensure stability for this bullet in all shooting conditions. Due to the popularity of the standard 1:9” twist for .20 caliber barrels, many shooters may be bummed to see the 1:8” recommended twist for this bullet. This web log entry is intended to shed some focused light on the stability requirements of this new bullet so it doesn’t get passed over by everyone with a 1:9” twist barrel. It is possible that your 1:9” twist barrel may stabilize these new bullets just fine depending on what conditions you’re shooting in.

In general, favorable conditions for stability are conditions that result in less dense air. Basically, warmer air and lower pressure (high altitude) will produce less dense air and aid stability. The data given in the Figure below illustrates the effects of various conditions and muzzle velocities on the stability of this particular bullet.

The gyroscopic stability factor (SG) is the measure of stability for spin stabilized bullets. In theory, SG needs to be above 1.0 to produce stability, but in practice, it’s a good idea to pad that with a margin of error. Most sources recommend an SG of at least 1.4 in nominal conditions to insure stability, and that’s what our recommended twist rate of 1:8” is based on. However, as you can see in the data, the 1:9” twist barrel produces stability that’s in the grey area of possible stability for many conditions.

These stability calculations have some error associated with them. Furthermore, the actual twist rate of barrels may also have some uncertainty (+/-). Ultimately the stability map below only shows that it may be possible, and is quite likely in favorable conditions, to successfully stabilize the new .20 caliber 55 grain bullets with a 1:9” twist barrel.

(click to expand)

In addition to the theory, we’ve had several field reports so far from a shooter who’s tried the new bullets in a 1:9” twist barrel and has had great success with them. Scott Green shoots a 20BR with a 26” long 1:9” twist 3 groove Pac Nor barrel. At 135 feet above sea level and 50-60 degrees F with muzzle velocity between 3550 and 3800 fps, Scott was grouping in the .2’s and .3’s at 100 yards. Groups around 1” were achieved at 300 yards, and 3” at 500. According to the calculations, these bullets were being launched with a stability factor of around 1.12 and doing just fine for several days of testing.

I would like to encourage anyone else who’s experimented with these bullets in a 1:9” twist barrel to share your experience by commenting on this blog. Please describe all the conditions of your test that would influence stability including: temperature, air pressure or altitude above sea level if known, muzzle velocity and your shooting results. By compiling case studies in addition to the data presented above, we should gain a complete and accurate understanding of the conditions that these bullets can and cannot work with in a 1:9” twist barrel.

The program used to generate the data in the table above uses the Miller stability formula. This program is free and I’ll be happy to email it to anyone who’s interested. Just send me an email at bryan.litz@bergerbullets.com and I’ll reply with the program attached. This program will calculate SG for any bullet from just a few simple inputs including: bullet caliber, weight, and length, muzzle velocity, twist rate and atmospheric conditions.

Bryan Litz
Ballistican

When I returned to Berger in 2004, I was able to spend more time communicating directly with shooters through emails, phone calls and these forums. I believe strongly that it is from these interactions that we gain a better understanding of what rifle shooters need to be successful. I also understand that there are many shooters who need technical assistance.

Thanks to your support, Berger has been blessed with significant growth. Lately, the challenges that go along with growth while staying focused on quality have pulled me away from the phone, emails and forums. For some time, I have been working on resolving this shortcoming. Our announcement today is the final piece in our solution to this challenge.

Below is a list of Berger Bullets’ resources that shooters can go to get the answers they need.

Technical Support by Phone – 714-447-5458
Berger has partnered with Sinclair International to provide extensive phone coverage by active and knowledgeable shooters. Led by Bill Gravatt, Sinclair is a highly-respected and legitimate source for technical assistance (among other things).

Loading Data and Technical Assistance from Walt Berger – bergerltd@aol.com
Founder and member of the Benchrest Hall of Fame, Walt Berger’s extensive shooting experience is a tremendous resource for those who need help. Over the last several years, Walt has been working on our loading manual. This work has generated loading data specific to Berger Bullets in most popular cartridges.

External Ballistic Assistance from Bryan Litz – bryan.litz@bergerbullets.com
Bryan’s reputation as a top external ballistics mind is well known. Equally recognized is his success as a competitive target shooter. Bryan is available for those who need to address advanced external ballistics concerns.

We will also continue to actively engage the forums as we strongly believe that forums are a valuable resource for all shooters (us included).

All of the people listed above are active rifle shooters and are committed to your success. These folks can provide an even greater level of shooting-related technical assistance than I. For this reason, you will see less of me as I focus my attention on the production floor (which is my strength). I will not be disconnected or unavailable, but I will rely heavily on this “dream team” of technical experts to provide you with the information you need to get back to the range or into the field.

Regards,
Eric Stecker
Master Bulletsmith
Executive Vice President
Berger Bullets

Walt Berger established a culture that makes the success of the rifle shooters our highest priority. This core belief influences all our efforts. When we decided many years ago that we wanted to publish our G1 BCs for all of our bullets we had a bit of a problem. We do not have access to a firing range that would allow us to establish fired BCs (turns out that this was a good thing but I’ll get into that later).

Walt contacted his friend and famed Ballistician Bill Davis to ask him how we can solve this challenge. As it turns out Bill was working on software that calculates a bullet’s BC based on dimensional inputs. It was a perfect solution for us at the time. We acquired Bill’s program and went to work generating G1 BCs.

These BCs were put to the test and we received many reports that shooters were coming very close to the drops predicted using our numbers. Given the nature of various different rifles and the velocity influenced differences in G1 BCs we accepted that our numbers were as good as we could produce for the majority of rifle shooters.

A few years ago the industrious and highly intelligent Ballistician, Bryan Litz started work on a project to accurately measure the fired BC of rifle bullets from all major manufacturers. During this project Bryan shared that our published BC was consistently 3% to 5% high. After further discussion we learned that Bill Davis’ program was very accurate but the dimensions we entered into the program did not take minor realities into consideration. For example, we used the total boat tail length in our data but every boat tail has a slight radius at the base which shortens the actual boat tail length. This influences the flight of the bullet and the actual BC.

A few months ago Bryan became Berger Bullet’s full time Chief Ballistician. Since Bryan has the ability to accurately measure fired BCs with +/- 1% repeatability and since we are committed to providing shooters with the best product and data it was an obvious and simple decision to update our published BCs to Bryan’s fired numbers. These BC’s are averaged from 3000 fps to 1500 fps and corrected to ICAO standard sea level conditions. The changes are slight but do provide the rifle shooter with an enhanced ability to successfully hit exactly where they aim on the first shot. THIS is the specific reason why the BCs were changed (corrected).

I mentioned earlier that it was a good thing that we did not shoot our BCs on a local range as those available to us at the time were only good out to 200 yards. Since the G1 BC is influenced heavily by velocity any BC numbers we generated over this short range would have been inflated higher than those we achieved through Bill Davis’ program.

One of the concerns that we are hearing about our new (corrected) BC is that since it is lower shooters have the impression that they will not perform as well as they did before. The fact is that ALL of the bullets are exactly the same and have not been changed. They will fly with precisely the same trajectory as they did before we adjusted the BC to a more accurate number.

Another related concern we are hearing is now that our BC numbers are lower they are not much different than other brand’s bullets in their respective weight class. Shooters need to understand that most of the other brand’s BC’s are valid only for high velocity where BC is highest. This produces an inflated number as it would have for us if we did the same thing which is why Bergers new BC’s are average values between 3000 fps and 1500 fps. The bottom line is their numbers are not representative of the bullets average performance over long ranges where the velocity slows down. If you do not believe this there are a number of simple tests to prove this is true.

The one exception to this situation is Sierra. Sierra publishes BCs for three or more different velocities. If you take these multiple BCs and average them you will get a BC that is very accurate for most of their bullets and is comparable to the average BC given for Berger bullets. The unfortunate thing is that many shooters use only Sierra’s high velocity BC as a comparison. This is not accurate when you are comparing this high velocity BC to the averaged BC that Berger publishes.

A BC is not a marketing tool and should not be inflated (intentionally or by using inaccurate means to calculate BC) for the purposes of selling more bullets. Some will say that inflating BC is smart business but frankly, we do not agree. A BC is an important number with physical meaning that’s used to calculate the trajectory of a given bullet which enables shooters to reliably engage targets at long range. The BC should allow a shooter to hit their aim point each and every time. There are many factors that influence the location of bullet impact but an accurate BC number is an essential component in achieving the most successful shooting experience no matter which brand you shoot. The bullet makers owe it to the shooters to provide them with truly accurate information about the performance of their product and that’s what we’re committed to.

Ballistic Coefficients and the programs that use them to predict trajectories are based on the same physical laws that got us to the moon. Success in rifle shooting is arguably not quite as critical as executing a flight to the moon. However, if you think we aren’t as committed to your success as the NASA engineers were you’re wrong.

In the not too distant future there will be information readily available detailing the G1 and more appropriate G7 (for long range bullets) BCs for bullets from every commonly available brand. Once this information is readily available everyone will see that the actual level of performance of the Berger bullets in comparison to other options has not changed. You will also be able to see how much different the published BCs of other brands are compared to their actual BCs. It will be an interesting and eye opening resource.

Regards,
Eric Stecker
Executive Vice President
Berger Bullets

p>We recognize that changes made to a single bullet or an entire line creates challenges for those who purchase and shoot our bullets. It is important for you to know that we understand how difficult this can be and we will limit any changes only to those that we strongly believe will benefit your efforts.

In a deliberate move to more effectively connect with shooters, we have spilt our entire line of bullets into three separate application based lines. These three lines are designated as Varmint, Target and Hunting.

The most common concern we hear is that shooters want to make sure they get the same bullets they enjoyed before the line split. To receive the sheet detailing the new part numbers along with the cooresponding old part number, contact Andrea Cobos at 714-447-5456 or at andrea.cobos@bergerbullets.com. This sheet will give you the new part number that applies to the bullets you have been using.

Another common concern we are hearing is from those who use our bullets for more than one application. The answer is simple. Think about the thing at which you are shooting. You never have to worry about how a bullet performs on impact with a target. You can’t wound a target. For this reason, you can shoot all three lines into targets. All Berger bullets are Match Grade, so bullets from each line will shoot well in your rifle.

When shooting varmints and game, bullet performance after impact is very important. The jackets used to make the bullets in our Hunting line have been tested both in media and in the field. Their terminal performance after impact makes them one of, if not the most lethal hunting bullets on the market (this is provable fact not marketing hype). If you are hunting ,then shoot bullets that are part of the Hunting line.

The bullets that are part of the Varmint line are made on the same J4 jackets that have always made these bullets. Some of the bullets that make up the Varmint line have a larger opening in the meplat to produce more rapid expansion. The other bullets that are part of the Varmint line but have standard size meplat opening are bullets used almost exclusively by varmint hunters and are not popular for target shooting. If you are hunting varmints, then shoot bullets that are part of the Varmint line.

I hear reports about how game hunters use 22 cal rimfire ammo to hunt small deer. I also hear reports about varmint hunters using 30 cal 168 gr bullets to shoot prairie dogs at long range. Sure, you can use our bullets any way you want to, but understand that the line designations are our recommendations for best performance. If you like shooting varmints with our 6mm 68 gr Target bullets then by all means continue. We understand that our line designations will apply to most rifle shooters, but not to every rifle shooter.

After 1-1-09, all product leaving our shop will be changed to these new part numbers, descriptions and UPC codes. Back orders listing the old information will be adjusted to the new designations. Orders received with old information will also be adjusted to utilize the new information. In situations where one bullet size and design has been split into two different lines, you will be contacted to determine the line from which you intend to purchase.

For example, the very popular 6.5mm 140 gr VLD is available from both the Target line and the Hunting line. The bullet sold in the Target line has a thicker jacket design to eliminate or significantly reduce bullet failures (blow ups). Bullet failures typically result from a core melting during high shot counts in a short period of time (match conditions).

The same 6.5mm 140 gr VLD sold in our Hunting line is made with the standard thickness jackets that are proving to be extremely effective for initial penetration and lethal internal expansion on game. Hunters’ low shot counts over longer periods of time produce a very small chance of bullet failure.

If you have any questions about which bullet you should use for an application, you can refer to the line designation (Varmint for varmint hunting, Target for target shooting, and Hunting for game hunting) or you can call 714-447-5458 for additional technical assistance. Any questions regarding existing orders or to place an order call 714-447-5456.

This 3 line change will have far reaching effects. In time, you will see each line evolving to better serve the goals of the rifle shooter who uses bullets from each given line. Many things are advancing in the rifle shooting world and we will make sure that bullet are available that are best suited for the type of shooting you enjoy.

Kind Regards,
Eric Stecker
Master Bulletsmith
Executive Vice President

Varmint Bullets
Our Varmint bullet line includes those bullets that are most commonly used by precision-oriented varmint hunters. These bullets are proven in the field to provide exceptional accuracy and a level of expansion that best suits a given varmint or predator application. The J4 Precision Jacket is thinner at the nose. These jackets are cut to size by a process known as pinch trimming. This pinch trim produces a bullet tip that is very thin and will expand quickly (impact velocity and animal size will effect expansion results). Our Varmint bullets are made with the same materials and process as all of our bullets. This produces a level of consistency that directly impacts a varmint hunter’s ability to get more hits in the field.

Target Bullets
Our Target bullet line is made up of the many legendary bullets that have been winning matches and setting records for decades. Berger Bullets was started because Walt Berger wanted better results while competiting in target shooting matches. Making Match Grade bullets for target competition shooters is our core competency. All of our success as the producer of consistent bullets for Varmint, Target and Hunting stems from the efforts we have made to produce the best bullets available for the extreme, precision focused, target competition shooter. There is a tremendous amount of pride knowing that we make a product that competition shooters all over the world trust when they go to the firing line. There is no better test of a bullets quality than to be used in a match where everyone is shooting to win. As competition shooters ourselves, we understand all the tough challenges and considerable effort it take to be an active target competition shooter. It is our thorough understanding of this effort that heavily influences all the bullets we make.

Hunting Bullets
The Hunting bullet line is proving to be the most lethal big game hunting bullets available. All of our Hunting bullets are made in the VLD design. The VLD design incorporates a sharp nose that allows the bullet to penetrate 2” to 3” before it starts to expand. After the bullet starts to expand, it will shed 40% to 85% of its weight as shrapnel into the surrounding tissue (internal organs). The combination between the shrapnel and the hydrostatic shock produces a massive wound cavity within the vital area (internal organs) that will be 13” to 15” long. This massive wound cavity results in the animal dropping fast since most go into shock after such a tremendous blow. Those animals that don’t go down immediately will soon succumb to blood pressure loss and/or organ failure, producing a quick ethical kill. Our bullets don’t poke through like an arrow (high weight retention, deep penetration bullets) but instead dump their energy where it is most effective, inside the animal. Using the Berger VLD will result in an animal that goes down fast so you can enjoy the results of your hunt without having to track the wounded animal after the shot. You owe it to yourself to see how accurate and deadly the Berger Hunting VLD will be on your next hunt. To order a free 30 minute video that provides more detail on the bullets, cartridge and velocity used to take several animals at a variety of ranges, call 714-447-5456.