Description
Buffalo Bore 357 SIG 125gr TAC-XP is Buffalo Bore item 25C, part of its Buffalo-Barnes line. It pairs the 125 grain Barnes TAC-XP all copper hollow point with a flash retarded powder in the 357 SIG case, and it comes in a 20 round box. The goal is a defensive load that both expands and penetrates deeply.
Who Makes Buffalo Bore 357 SIG 125gr TAC-XP
Buffalo Bore Ammunition is a Montana company known for powerful, carefully documented loads. It publishes velocities from real pistols rather than long laboratory test barrels, which it argues give unrealistically high numbers.
The Barnes TAC-XP is a solid copper hollow point. With no lead core there is nothing to separate from the jacket, so the bullet tends to hold its weight. Buffalo Bore says this load penetrates roughly 20 inches or more in flesh and bone while expanding to around 55 caliber.
Because all copper bullets are long for their weight, they take up powder space in small cases like the 357 SIG. Buffalo Bore notes that this forces a slightly lower velocity than it would like, but it considers the deep penetration and reliable expansion of the all copper bullet worth the trade.
Specifications and Performance
Buffalo Bore advertises Buffalo Bore 357 SIG 125gr TAC-XP at 1,425 fps. Its own chronograph result from a SIG P229 with a 4 inch barrel was 1,301 fps. Expect results in that range from service-size pistols, and somewhat less from compact models.
The company also publishes exterior ballistic charts for this item at several muzzle velocities. For a defensive handgun load, the more useful numbers are penetration and expansion, and the 357 SIG was designed to deliver 357 Magnum-like velocities from a semi-automatic pistol.
The low flash powder matters more than many shooters realise. Buffalo Bore points out that most civilian defensive shootings happen in low light. A bright muzzle flash from a compact pistol can leave you temporarily blind at the worst possible moment, so a flash retarded powder is a genuine advantage in a carry load.
- Product: Buffalo Bore 357 SIG 125gr TAC-XP
- Manufacturer item number: 25C/20
- Cartridge: 357 SIG
- Bullet: 125 grain Barnes TAC-XP, all copper hollow point
- Velocity: 1,425 fps advertised, 1,301 fps measured in a SIG P229 4 inch
- Construction: solid copper, no lead core
- Powder: low flash
- Quantity: 20 rounds per box
- UPC: 651815025032
Field Notes
357 SIG ammo should be fired only in pistols chambered for 357 SIG. Many 40 S&W pistols can be converted to 357 SIG with a barrel swap, but the cartridges are not interchangeable without the correct barrel.
Non-lead ammunition is required in some areas, such as parts of California for hunting, and some ranges prefer it. Even where it is not required, a solid copper bullet is a good choice when you want deep penetration, for example as a backcountry load against animals.
Expect firm recoil. The 357 SIG is a high pressure cartridge, and a fast 125 grain bullet produces a sharp report and a snappy recoil impulse, especially in compact pistols. Regular practice with similar ammunition will help you control follow-up shots.
Deep penetration cuts both ways in a home. Consider what is behind your target and the construction of your walls when choosing defensive ammunition. Shoot enough rounds of Buffalo Bore 357 SIG 125gr TAC-XP in your own pistol to confirm feeding and point of aim before carrying it.
Buyers must be at least 21 for handgun ammunition from a licensed dealer under federal law, and some states add extra rules. Store ammunition cool and dry.
Compare the Buffalo Bore 9mm +P+ 124gr JHP, browse our full ammunition selection, and see Buffalo Bore item 25C for full ballistic charts.
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