Description
The all-copper construction sets this ammunition apart from conventional lead-core options. The monolithic design retains nearly 100 percent of its weight on impact, which means more reliable penetration and less risk of fragmentation. You'll also see less barrel fouling thanks to the grooved shank design that's cut into the bullet, which actually improves overall accuracy across your shooting sessions.
Why Federal Premium Barnes TSX Stands Out
Federal brought back this ammunition in 2019 after six years of discontinuation, and with good reason. The Barnes Triple-Shock X has earned a solid reputation in the field for delivering consistent, large-diameter expansion. The 165-grain weight provides a solid middle ground between trajectory and knockdown power, launching at 2800 fps with 2872 ft-lbs of muzzle energy. That velocity window is where the Barnes TSX performs its best, giving you reliable expansion without the velocity extremes.
Brass and Components Built for Consistency
Federal Premium loads start with inspected primers and clean-burning powders formulated to tight specifications. The nickel-plated brass resists corrosion and feeds smoothly even in less-than-ideal conditions. Everything is built around consistency shot-to-shot, which is exactly what you need when the moment matters.
Application and Range
This is a medium game load that works well on deer and elk within typical hunting ranges. You'll find plenty of success on broadside shots where the bullet can deliver its full effect. The 165-grain bullet strikes a practical balance for hunters who want a flat enough trajectory to make reasonably confident shots at extended distances while maintaining the terminal performance needed for ethical, quick kills.
Key Specifications
- Caliber: .30-06 Springfield
- Bullet Weight: 165 Grains
- Bullet Type: Barnes Triple-Shock X (all-copper hollow point)
- Muzzle Velocity: 2800 fps
- Muzzle Energy: 2872 ft-lbs
- Rounds Per Box: 20
- Case Material: Nickel-plated brass
- Ballistic Coefficient: 0.398
- Cartridge Length: 1.301 inches
- Application: Medium game hunting
- Manufacturer: Federal Ammunition
- Manufacturer Part Number: P3006AF
- UPC: 029465098537
What’s Included
- 20 rounds of Federal Premium 30-06 Springfield 165gr Barnes TSX ammunition
Frequently Asked Questions
Will Barnes TSX bullets expand reliably at typical hunting distances?
Yes. At the 2800 fps muzzle velocity this round delivers, expansion is consistent and reliable. Barnes TSX bullets open through hydraulic pressure upon impact, and most shooters report predictable performance out to practical hunting ranges. The all-copper construction means they retain nearly all their weight and create deep, clean wound channels.
Is the 165-grain weight suitable for elk hunting?
The 165-grain weight can work on elk, though many experienced elk hunters prefer heavier bullets in the 168-180 grain range for added penetration and knockdown power. That said, shot placement matters more than bullet weight, and this round will handle elk-sized game effectively when hits are placed correctly in the vitals.
How does the nickel-plated brass help my reloading?
Nickel-plated cases resist corrosion, which extends their lifespan both in storage and after firing. They also feed smoother through most rifle actions and extract more easily, even after extended use. If you reload, these cases are reloadable and typically last several more shots than standard brass.
What makes all-copper bullets perform differently than lead-core bullets?
All-copper monolithic bullets expand through a different mechanism than traditional lead-core designs. The copper slug is harder and won't separate at the jacket, which means you get weight retention close to 100 percent. This results in deeper penetration and more consistent expansion, though the bullet opens in a slightly tighter pattern than some lead-core rounds.





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