What You Should Know About the **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off**
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of diverse field experience, I’ve always sought ammunition that offers consistent performance, especially when lives or property might be on the line. The Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off caught my attention due to its unique solid copper construction and claims of superior barrier penetration. I was in the market for a reliable defensive round for my older .38 Special revolvers, specifically something that wouldn’t be overly sensitive to clothing or intermediate barriers often encountered in self-defense scenarios. Traditional jacketed hollow points can sometimes fail to expand reliably after passing through fabric or auto glass. I considered some lead-based premium hollow points, but the DPX’s all-copper design and stated “barrier blind” capability presented a compelling alternative for critical applications. My initial impression upon handling the box was one of understated quality; the ammunition felt robust and well-manufactured, a promising start.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off** to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing environment for this ammunition was a controlled private shooting range, simulating self-defense scenarios with common barriers. I specifically focused on how the rounds performed after passing through four layers of denim, simulating clothing. The recoil impulse was manageable, comparable to other standard .38 Special loads, which is a significant plus for follow-up shots.
The initial setup involved loading a S&W Model 10 and a Ruger SP101. Both firearms cycled the Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off without any feeding or extraction issues, which is critical for defensive firearms. I also tested against a pane of laminated auto glass to gauge its “barrier blind” capabilities, a key selling point. The process was straightforward; load, aim, and fire, with no complex procedures required.
One surprising observation was the clean burn and minimal fouling left in the cylinders after a series of rapid fire strings. Unlike some other defensive loads I’ve used, there was no excessive powder residue or leading, making post-shooting cleanup much simpler. This indicated a well-formulated propellant blend.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions and consistent use over a few months, the reliability of this ammunition has remained a strong suit. I have experienced zero malfunctions, including failures to feed, extract, or fire, across multiple firearms. This level of consistency is exactly what you want in ammunition meant for critical situations.
The solid copper projectile, while durable, shows minimal wear and tear even after being chambered and ejected multiple times. This speaks to the quality of the projectile’s jacket and the overall manufacturing process. There are no visible cracks or deformities on the bullets themselves, even when subjected to repeated chambering.
Maintenance on the firearms used with this ammunition has been straightforward. The minimal fouling means less time spent deep cleaning barrels and cylinders. I found that a quick wipe-down with a solvent and a brush was sufficient to keep the revolvers in excellent condition.
Comparing this to some budget-friendly, lead-based JHP rounds I’ve used in the past for less critical applications, the Cor Bon DPX rounds are clearly in a different league. While those budget options might be fine for target practice, they lack the consistency and barrier performance of this solid copper offering. The premium price point is, in my experience, justified by the superior design and proven performance.
Breaking Down the Features of **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off**
Specifications
This ammunition features a 110 grain Jacketed Hollow Point (JHP) projectile, constructed from 100% solid copper. The cartridge case is made from brass, and it utilizes centerfire primers. Each box contains 20 rounds.
The 110 grain weight strikes a balance for the .38 Special cartridge, aiming for good velocity without excessive recoil. The solid copper construction is key to the DPX line’s performance, particularly its ability to maintain integrity and expand after passing through barriers. The brass casing ensures good feeding and extraction in most firearms, a standard expected for quality ammunition.
A reported Muzzle Velocity of 1200 ft/s and Muzzle Energy of 269 ft-lbs positions these rounds for effective self-defense applications. The Lead Free designation is also noteworthy, making this ammunition compliant for use in areas with restrictions on lead projectiles, such as California. Its intended application spans both Target and Self Defense, reflecting its versatility.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of defensive ammunition is to reliably expand and incapacitate a threat, and the Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off excels in this regard. The solid copper construction combined with internal serration cuts is designed to promote significant expansion, creating what Cor Bon describes as “six razor sharp pedals.” This dual-diameter expansion creates a larger wound channel, increasing the permanent crush cavity over traditional JHP designs.
A significant strength of this ammunition is its “barrier blind” capability. When fired through heavy barriers like auto glass or steel, the DPX projectile has consistently retained 100% of its original weight. This is a critical differentiator from many other hollow points that can fragment or deform significantly when encountering resistance, thus losing their ability to expand properly.
The performance in 10% ballistic gelatin after penetration through four layers of 10oz denim was particularly impressive. The expansion was consistent and reliable, creating a significant permanent cavity that exceeded that of many standard JHP rounds. The only potential area for improvement, common to many premium defensive rounds, is the price per round, but the performance justifies the cost for critical applications.
Design & Ergonomics
While ammunition itself doesn’t have “ergonomics” in the traditional sense of a grip or handle, the design of the DPX projectile is meticulously engineered for optimal function. The 100% solid copper construction offers inherent advantages in terms of material consistency and expansion characteristics. The internal serration cuts, rather than external ones, allow the bullet to expand outward dramatically without the jacket peeling away, as can sometimes happen with traditional JHP designs.
The Jacketed Hollow Point design, when combined with the solid copper projectile, provides a robust yet rapidly expanding bullet. This combination ensures deep penetration into soft tissue while also achieving significant expansion. The Brass Cased design is a standard but essential element, ensuring smooth chambering and ejection from a wide variety of firearms.
The Lead Free aspect is a modern design consideration that addresses regulatory environments and user preference. This makes the DPX38110/20 a more universally applicable choice for defensive carry, especially in states with lead restrictions. The overall design philosophy is clearly focused on delivering reliable terminal ballistics under challenging conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
As an ammunition product, durability is primarily about shelf-life and resistance to environmental degradation. The Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off is manufactured to high standards, suggesting excellent long-term stability when stored properly. The solid copper projectile itself is inherently resistant to corrosion compared to lead core bullets. The brass casing also provides a good barrier against moisture.
Maintenance for this ammunition is essentially about proper storage. Keeping the rounds in a cool, dry environment, ideally in their original box, will ensure their performance remains consistent for many years. There are no specific maintenance procedures required for the ammunition itself beyond proper storage protocols.
Potential failure points for ammunition generally revolve around propellant degradation or primer issues over extended periods or under adverse storage conditions. However, given Cor Bon‘s reputation for quality manufacturing, these are unlikely concerns for this product, especially when compared to generic or lower-quality alternatives. The primary “durability” concern for the end-user is ensuring they are purchased and stored correctly.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific product, Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off, is sold as a box of 20 rounds. Therefore, there are no included accessories such as cleaning kits, holsters, or additional magazines. The primary “customization” aspect of ammunition lies in selecting the right load for the firearm and intended purpose.
While this is a dedicated defensive round, its performance characteristics also make it suitable for practice, though the cost might be prohibitive for casual range use. The core “feature” is the projectile itself, which is a proprietary design by Cor Bon. There are no user-replaceable parts or external modifications that can be made to the ammunition itself.
It’s worth noting that the quality of the firearm in which this ammunition is used is paramount. Ensuring your .38 Special revolver or pistol is well-maintained and functions correctly will maximize the performance of these premium rounds. Compatibility with standard .38 Special firearms is virtually guaranteed by the caliber designation and standard brass casing.
Pros and Cons of **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off**
Pros
- Superior Barrier Penetration: The DPX projectile is remarkably effective at retaining its weight and expanding after passing through common barriers like auto glass and heavy clothing.
- 100% Solid Copper Projectile: This construction promotes reliable expansion and weight retention, eliminating concerns about jacket separation.
- Consistent Expansion: Achieves significant and consistent expansion in ballistic gelatin, creating a substantial wound channel with six sharp petals.
- Lead Free: Compliant with regulations in areas that restrict lead projectiles, making it a versatile choice for various locations.
- Reliable Function: Experienced zero malfunctions in testing across multiple firearms, indicating high manufacturing quality.
Cons
- Premium Price Point: The cost per round is higher than conventional JHP or FMJ ammunition, making it more of an investment for critical use.
- Limited Pack Size: Each box contains only 20 rounds, which might not be ideal for extensive practice sessions without incurring significant cost.
Who Should Buy **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off**?
This ammunition is ideally suited for individuals prioritizing maximum terminal performance and barrier penetration in a .38 Special cartridge. Law enforcement officers, private security personnel, and responsible citizens who carry a .38 Special for self-defense would benefit significantly from its capabilities. Those who live in or frequently travel to areas with strict regulations on ammunition composition, such as California, will find the Lead Free designation a major advantage.
Conversely, individuals looking for the most economical option for high-volume target practice might find the price point prohibitive. While it functions perfectly well for practice, there are far more cost-effective alternatives available for that purpose. Those seeking extremely deep penetration against very hard barriers (beyond typical vehicle glass or drywall) might need to explore specialized monolithic rounds designed for specific threats, though the DPX performs exceptionally well across a broad range.
For anyone considering this ammunition, I highly recommend ensuring your firearm is in good working order and that you practice with it occasionally, if budget allows, to build familiarity with its performance. Investing in quality ammunition like this is a critical component of responsible firearm ownership for self-defense.
Conclusion on **Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off**
After extensive testing and comparison with other .38 Special defensive rounds, the Cor Bon 38 Special 110 Grain Jacketed Hollow Point -DPX Brass Cased Pistol Ammunition
DPX38110/20 $1.25 Off stands out as a top-tier choice for critical applications. Its unique solid copper construction and proven barrier blind performance are significant advantages over many conventional hollow points. The consistent expansion and weight retention observed in testing provide a high degree of confidence in its terminal ballistics.
While the price per round is a consideration, the value proposition is undeniable for those who demand the utmost in defensive ammunition performance. The Lead Free aspect further enhances its appeal for widespread legal and practical use. For anyone carrying a .38 Special for personal protection, this ammunition represents an investment in reliability and effectiveness.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Cor Bon DPX line of ammunition for its intended purpose. It delivers on its promises of superior performance, making it a compelling option for those who cannot compromise when it matters most. If you are serious about your defensive firearm’s capabilities, this ammunition deserves a place in your loadout.