Barnes TTSX 160 grain 338 advice

[webbspinner]

I thought I was ordering some 225 ttsx bullets and bought 2 boxes of these instead, was during Covid.  Tried to exchange for the 225s but found out that those were out of stock which is why I got the 160s.  Has anyone here tried these at all?  Thought maybe I’d get a 338/06 or something but I don’t think that’s a plan now.  Light for caliber but was wondering if anyone here had tried them and if they would be worthwhile in my 338 wm? 


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[bobcat]

I haven't tried that light of a bullet in my 338 Win. Mag. but I have shot some 185 grain Barnes. Didn't end up hunting with them though, I've only used 200 grain Nosler Ballistic Tips on game, because so far I haven't been able to get any other bullet to shoot as good in my rifle as the Ballistic Tips. I think the 160s would work just fine especially if you're not wanting to shoot extreme long range. The lower recoil would be a nice bonus. The ballistic coefficient is really low so won't do good in windy conditions.

I do have a box of 100 Hornady 225 grain Interlock bullets that I don't plan to use if you'd be interested in trading. Also I might have some extra 200 grain Nosler E tips that I could trade as well. I've been wanting to try the Barnes 160s.

[bearpaw]

I've shot quite a few of the 160 TTSX in a 340 Weatherby. They shot less than a 1 inch group, most bullet holes touched, we killed several bear and a couple cow elk with them,never recovered a bullet, all pass throughs, less recoil than a 300 WTBY, extremely flat shooting at 400 and closer. In the 340 WTBY I.m getting close to 3500 fps, I'm not sure how fast they would be in the 338? I also don't know the twist rate in your 338, that may determine if your gun will stabilize the 160's, I've read some guns will not.

[bobcat]

Barnes reloading data shows top speeds with the 160 in the 338 Win. Mag. between 3,300 fps and 3,400 fps.

[jrebel]

Only way to know for sure is to try them out and see.  Maybe try a little bit faster powder than you would usually use for heavies and work a load up.  You may be pleasantly surprised. 

[Farmer72]

I haven't used the 160gr but my buddy uses the 185 gr Barnes in his 338 Win and has had no problem on Elk out to 400 yds. I would think the 160 would be fine for most things depending on range (low BC). I have shot 180 gr TSX out of my 8mm Rem mag for years and had very good luck out to 525 yds. on elk. I would say if you can find a good load for your rifle they shold be fine.

[webbspinner]

Bobcat where you located?  I might be interested in a trade.   I’ve got a great load for 225 that shoots well in my gun and seems silly to try something else especially since it’s so hard to get components these days.  I’ve got some interlocks already and have been using sst 225 as well and both shoot amazing in my rifle. Let me know. Would be interesting to see what they would do but if it’s not broke why mess with it.  I try to standardize my rifles and loads to be fairly identical in set up as well as trajectory. And the 225 has been my go to thus far to fill that bill


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[bobcat]

I'm 15 miles south of Olympia. I could probably mail the bullets with a flat rate box if we're too far apart. But would be better to do it in person if possible.

[webbspinner]

I'm 15 miles south of Olympia. I could probably mail the bullets with a flat rate box if we're too far apart. But would be better to do it in person if possible.

That’s not too far from me. I’m near port orchard   Maybe meet somewhere in the middle?


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[bobcat]

I'm 15 miles south of Olympia. I could probably mail the bullets with a flat rate box if we're too far apart. But would be better to do it in person if possible.

That’s not too far from me. I’m near port orchard   Maybe meet somewhere in the middle?


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Sent you a PM.

[Archy99]

Not in a 338, but I’ve been (hoarding and) shooting 150 TTSX’s in my 300WSM for years. Very accurate in my Savage, and an absolute flat trajectory at “normal” hunting distances. Only issue I’ve had is a few primers blown out. Can’t find them on the shelf any longer, but I still ask.


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[MeatMissile]

The 160 TTSX, much like the 130gr from a 300 Win Mag, is devastating!