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Q&A · Hunting

Which type of bullets provide the best expansion in .35 Remington?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

For the .35 Remington, expanding bullets like the Speer Grand Slam and Barnes TSX provide reliable expansion and penetration, while the Hornady SST and Nosler Partition offer a balance of expansion and weight retention.

Ideal Bullets for the .35 Remington

When selecting expanding bullets for the .35 Remington, it’s essential to consider the specific load and hunting scenario. The Speer Grand Slam 200-grain bullet is an excellent choice for hunting medium-sized game due to its reliable expansion and deep penetration. The bullet’s polymer tip helps initiate expansion, while its hollow point design allows it to expand consistently across a range of velocities.

Bullet Selection by Game Size

For larger game, such as elk or moose, a heavier, more robust bullet is often preferred. The Barnes TSX 220-grain bullet offers an excellent balance of expansion and penetration, making it suitable for taking down larger game. Its copper jacket and lead core provide exceptional weight retention, while the polymer tip helps initiate expansion.

Lever-Action Considerations

When hunting with a lever-action rifle like the Winchester Model 1886, it’s essential to consider the rifle’s characteristics and the shooter’s skill level. For a lever-action rifle, a slightly faster-expanding bullet is often preferred to compensate for the rifle’s relatively short barrel and slower muzzle velocities. The Hornady SST 200-grain bullet is an excellent choice for lever-action rifles, offering reliable expansion and weight retention across a range of velocities.

35-remington-lever type bullets provide expansion remington
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