Choosing the right ammunition can be the difference between success and failure in a self-defense situation or a challenging hunting trip. When it comes to high-performance rounds pushing the boundaries of what's possible, two names consistently rise to the top: Buffalo Bore and Underwood Ammo. Both companies are known for their potent loads, but which one reigns supreme? This in-depth comparison will help you decide.
Understanding the Competition: Buffalo Bore and Underwood
Before diving into specifics, let's establish a baseline understanding of each company. Both Buffalo Bore and Underwood are renowned for producing ammunition exceeding standard factory loads in terms of power and stopping ability. They cater to serious shooters, hunters, and those prioritizing maximum effectiveness in self-defense scenarios. However, their approaches and target markets have subtle differences.
Buffalo Bore: Often associated with heavy-hitting, hard-cast bullets designed for deep penetration and reliable performance in challenging conditions. They're a popular choice for hunters dealing with larger game and those seeking maximum stopping power for self-defense.
Underwood Ammo: Known for pushing the limits of what's possible within commercially available ammunition. They offer a wide variety of calibers and bullet types, frequently featuring high-velocity rounds and innovative designs. Underwood appeals to both serious shooters and those seeking cutting-edge performance.
Key Factors to Consider: A Head-to-Head Comparison
Choosing between Buffalo Bore and Underwood depends heavily on your specific needs and priorities. Let's examine key aspects:
1. Power and Penetration: The Raw Stopping Power
Both companies deliver impressive power, but their approaches differ:
-
Buffalo Bore: Focuses on deep penetration, often utilizing hard-cast bullets that excel in dense materials. This is ideal for hunting larger game where complete penetration is crucial for a clean kill.
-
Underwood Ammo: Prioritizes both power and expansion. They often use jacketed hollow points (JHPs) and other expanding bullet designs that maximize energy transfer upon impact, leading to quicker incapacitation.
Verdict: Buffalo Bore excels in penetration; Underwood shines in a balance of power and expansion. The "better" option depends entirely on your intended application.
2. Bullet Construction and Design: Material Matters
The bullet design directly impacts performance:
-
Buffalo Bore: Predominantly employs hard-cast lead bullets, renowned for their durability and penetration. These are less likely to deform upon impact with bone or dense materials.
-
Underwood Ammo: Utilizes a broader range of bullet designs, including JHPs, bonded JHPs, and sometimes even solid copper bullets. This diversity allows for fine-tuning performance for specific needs.
Verdict: Buffalo Bore offers a consistent, reliable design for penetration. Underwood provides versatility to choose the optimal bullet for your specific use case.
3. Recoil: Managing the Force
High-performance ammo naturally generates substantial recoil:
-
Buffalo Bore: Their heavier bullets and potent loads often result in noticeably stronger recoil, requiring a firm grip and proper shooting technique.
-
Underwood Ammo: Recoil varies depending on the specific load, but generally falls within a similar range to Buffalo Bore, though some loads may be slightly less punishing.
Verdict: Both brands produce ammunition with substantial recoil. Expect significant recoil with either choice and prioritize proper shooting technique.
4. Price: Balancing Value and Performance
High-performance ammo isn't cheap:
-
Buffalo Bore: Generally falls within a competitive price range for premium ammunition.
-
Underwood Ammo: Pricing can vary depending on the specific cartridge and bullet type, but often aligns with Buffalo Bore's pricing or may be slightly higher for certain specialized loads.
Verdict: Both brands are priced similarly, reflecting the premium quality and performance they offer.
5. Availability: Finding What You Need
Accessibility differs:
-
Buffalo Bore: Widely available through many online retailers and some brick-and-mortar stores.
-
Underwood Ammo: Also widely available online and through selected retailers, though certain specialized loads might have limited availability.
Verdict: Both are readily accessible online, but checking local availability before purchasing is always recommended.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Champion
The "better" ammunition—Buffalo Bore or Underwood—depends entirely on your intended purpose. Buffalo Bore is the clear winner for hunters seeking maximum penetration in larger game, prioritizing consistent, deep penetration over rapid expansion. Underwood provides a wider range of options for various needs, often excelling in scenarios requiring a blend of power and expansion, making it a versatile choice for self-defense and hunting smaller game. Careful consideration of your specific requirements is crucial in making the right decision.
