Description
The Barnes TSX .338 285gr Boat Tail is one of those bullets that has earned its reputation the hard way, out in the field. Introduced back in 2003, the Triple-Shock X became Barnes' most popular hunting bullet for good reason. It is machined from 100 percent copper with zero lead core, so instead of coming apart on impact it holds together and drives deep. On game, the hollow point peels open into four sharp petals and expands to roughly double the bullet's diameter, giving you a devastating wound channel while retaining nearly all of its original weight. For anyone chasing elk, moose, bear, or heavy plains game with a .338, that kind of consistent penetration is exactly what you want.
What Makes the .338 TSX Boat Tail Different
The multiple grooves cut into the shank, Barnes calls them Accu-Grooves, are not there for looks. They act as relief points as the bullet travels down the bore, which cuts back on copper fouling, trims pressure on hot loads, and helps the bullet shoot straighter. The boat tail base cleans up the airflow behind the bullet, and with a G1 ballistic coefficient of .585 and a sectional density of .356, this 285-grainer carries its energy well at distance. It is a natural fit for the .338 Lapua Magnum and other fast .338 cartridges.
Loading the Barnes TSX 285 Grain
Since this is a monolithic copper bullet, it tends to run a little longer than a lead-core bullet of the same weight, and it likes some jump to the rifling. A good starting point most reloaders swear by is around .050 inch off the lands, then work in both directions from there to find the sweet spot in your rifle. These shine when pushed hard, so build your load up carefully and let the groups tell you where it wants to sit. You will want a 1:10 twist or faster to stabilize them properly.
Bottom line, if you reload for a .338 and take game seriously, these are a proven, dependable projectile that does its job clean.
Key Specifications
- Manufacturer: Barnes
- Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): 30417
- UPC: 716876338504
- Caliber: .338 Caliber (.338" diameter)
- Bullet Weight: 285 Grain
- Bullet Style: TSX Boat Tail (Solid Hollow Point)
- Core / Jacket Material: 100% Copper, Lead-Free
- Ballistic Coefficient (G1): 0.585
- Sectional Density: 0.356
- Bullet Length: 1.794"
- Recommended Twist Rate: 1:10" or Faster
- Quantity: 50 Bullets
What’s Included
- 50 Barnes TSX .338 caliber 285-grain Boat Tail bullets
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Barnes TSX .338 285gr bullets loaded ammunition or reloading components?
These are unloaded projectiles meant for handloading, not finished cartridges. You will need to supply your own brass, primers, and powder to build your rounds. They come 50 to a box.
What seating depth works best with these Barnes TSX bullets?
Because they are solid copper, the TSX generally likes more jump to the lands than a typical lead-core bullet. A common starting point is around .050 inch off the lands, then adjust in both directions to dial in accuracy for your specific barrel. The grooves on the shank are pressure-relief features, not seating guides, so use your reloading manual and a comparator to set your OAL.
What twist rate do I need to stabilize the 285gr .338 TSX?
Barnes lists a 1:10 inch twist or faster for this 285-grain bullet. Most .338 Lapua Magnum and similar magnum rifles are already cut with the right twist to run these well. If you are unsure, check your barrel's stamped twist rate before loading.
Why choose an all-copper TSX over a traditional lead-core bullet?
The TSX is built from 100 percent copper, so it holds together instead of shedding fragments, which means deeper, more consistent penetration and nearly full weight retention. On impact the nose opens into four cutting petals for reliable expansion at both high and low velocity. It is also a solid pick if you hunt in areas where lead-free projectiles are preferred.




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