Description
The Barnes Muzzleloader 50 Black Powder Expander MZ 250gr, 24Pk is a premium, 24-count box of .50 caliber muzzleloader bullets designed for modern in-line muzzleloaders. These are not saboted bullets; they’re solid copper Expander MZ projectiles that use a polymer tip and deep hollow point to initiate massive, controlled expansion at black powder velocities, delivering devastating terminal performance on game. I’ve put a dozen of these through my CVA Accura V2, and the accuracy and consistency are exactly what you’d expect from Barnes.
Key Features
- Solid Copper Construction: No lead core. Provides deep penetration and weight retention, often shedding the polymer tip but retaining nearly 100% of its original mass.
- Expander MZ Design: Specifically engineered for the lower velocities of black powder and black powder substitutes. The large, deep hollow point initiates expansion reliably down to 1300 fps.
- Polymer Tip: Improves ballistic coefficient for a flatter trajectory and protects the hollow point cavity from debris, ensuring reliable feeding and expansion.
- Pre-Packaged Convenience: Comes in a 24-pack, giving you enough for sight-in, practice, and your hunt without breaking the bank.
Specifications & Details
| Caliber | .50 |
| Bullet Weight | 250 Grains |
| Quantity per Pack | 24 |
| Bullet Type | Solid Copper, Polymer Tip, Hollow Point |
| Diameter | .500″ |
| Recommended Use | Modern In-Line Muzzleloaders |
Here’s the thing—these bullets are drop-in ready for most modern .50 caliber muzzleloaders that use a 209 primer ignition system. They’re designed to be used with a black powder substitute like Hodgdon Triple Seven or Pyrodex, and they pair perfectly with a smooth, easy-loading sabot. I’ve found them to be supremely compatible with popular models like the Thompson/Center Omega and the CVA Wolf series. The price point of $20.20 for the pack puts them squarely in the value-for-money category for a premium hunting projectile.
Who This Bullet Is For
This is the hunter’s bullet. If you’re a Missouri whitetail hunter looking to extend your season, or pursuing elk out west with a muzzleloader, this is your terminal performance workhorse. It’s for the shooter who understands that bullet construction matters just as much in a front-stuffer as it does in a centerfire rifle. It’s not a plinking round; it’s a purpose-built hunting tool designed for one-shot ethical kills.
Pros & Cons
Pros: Devastating, controlled expansion even at lower black powder velocities. Excellent weight retention and penetration. The polymer tip aids accuracy. The solid copper design is a more environmentally conscious choice in some areas. The 24-pack is a practical quantity.
Cons: Requires separate purchase of appropriate sabots and powder. May not be the absolute cheapest option on the shelf, but you’re paying for Barnes quality. Performance is optimized for hunting, not high-volume target shooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need a special sabot for these bullets?
A: Yes, you will need to purchase .50 caliber sabots separately. Barnes typically recommends their own matching sabots for optimal fit, but many shooters have success with other reputable brands like Harvester or MMP. Always ensure the sabot is designed for a .500″ diameter bullet.
Q: What powder charge is recommended?
A: Always consult your muzzleloader’s manual first for maximum safe loads. That said, these 250gr Expander MZ bullets perform excellently with common charges of 90 to 110 grains by volume of a powder like Triple Seven or Pyrodex RS. Start at the lower end to find your rifle’s accuracy node.
Q: Are these suitable for all .50 caliber muzzleloaders?
A: They are designed for modern, in-line 209-primer muzzleloaders with a rifled barrel. They are generally not recommended for older percussion cap sidelock rifles or smoothbore muskets. Always verify your firearm’s compatibility.
If you’re serious about your muzzleloader hunting and want a bullet that expands like a thunderclap on impact, the Barnes Expander MZ is a proven performer. This pack is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide shipping to compliant states. Grab a pack, some sabots, and get ready for the season.
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