First Look: Federal Premium's Lead Muzzleloader Bullet

by
posted on September 30, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
first_look_fed_borlock_lead_f.jpg

Federal Premium re-entered the muzzleloader projectile market in a big way last year, with the introduction of its revolutionary Trophy Copper Muzzleloader Bullet. Featuring the company's innovative B.O.R. (Bullet Obturating Ramp) Lock MZ system, the new submission was crafted to provide top-notch accuracy in a non-sabot design. It served as a game changer for the industry, and Federal hasn't slowed pace: in 2016, the folks in Anoka will be rolling out a lead version. Here are five things you need to know.

1. It's a whole new ballgame.
Just like its Trophy Copper brethren, the Lead Muzzleloader Bullet utilizes the company's B.O.R. Lock MZ system. The "Bullet Obturating Ramp" is the heart and soul of Federal's muzzleloader projectile line, differs from the industry norm in two ways. They're detailed below.

2. It's no sabot.
The projectile has an expanding, one-piece, black polymer cup secured to its base. And it doesn't separate from the bullet in flight. If you don't recover your cup, it was lost upon impact with the target—not before. The force of ignition pushes the cup forward onto raised bands along the bullet shank, expanding its diameter. That engages the rifling and seals the bore, optimizing velocity and accuracy.

3. It's easy to load.
Between its diameter, hardness and five blade-like projections, the cup's fiber-reinforced polymer ring base makes loading your muzzleloader easier than ever. The base self-scours fouling during loading, ensuring that its operator can quickly and easily reload between shots. Federal estimates that required loading force averages about half of most sabot bullets.

4. It's self-cleaning. Sort of.
The same fouling-scouring base that makes the bullet easy to load will also reduce how often you have to clean your muzzleloader between shots, and makes it easier to consistently seat.

5. It's evenly priced.
At $24.95 per 15, Federal has kept its projectiles in step of some of the industry's other top-shelf muzzleloader options.

For more information, go to FederalPremium.com.

Latest

W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final
W H2026 03 Hardware W3788 TAH 0118Final

Hardware Review: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down Carbine

Best known for their large-bore lever actions, Big Horn Armory of Cody, Wyo., adds to their .50 caliber arsenal with the new Model 89 Take Down (TD) Carbine. Chambered in the mighty .500 Smith & Wesson Magnum, the Model 89 TD, as the name implies, comes apart for easy storage and transport.

New for 2026: HiViZ Shooting Systems LiteWave Sight for Ruger Redhawk Alaskan

HiViz Shooting Systems has expanded its revolver lineup with the introduction of the LiteWave Front Sight for the Ruger Redhawk Alaskan. Designed specifically to complement the rugged performance of Ruger's Redhawk Alaskan revolver, the new LiteWave Front Sight promises fast target acquisition, durability and a customizable sight picture.

Gear Roundup: Spring Cleaning for Hunters

Need to clean the grime off your guns and gear this spring? Look no further than our hunter-specific cleaning lienup.

New for 2026: Henry Bear's Leg Pistol

Henry Repeating Arms is expanding its lineup with the new Bear’s Leg Pistol, a compact, utility-minded platform that blends the unmistakable profile of the classic Mare’s Leg with modern features. Offered in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum, .30-30 Winchester and .45-70 Government, the Bear’s Leg Pistol is purpose-built for versatility and hard use.

First Look: Easton 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off Insert

Easton has announced its 5mm Steel HIT Break-Off 8-32 Insert, giving archers full control over balance and performance. 

Turkey Tips: Unlock the West

Finding the right tom in the right mood to come to your calls out in the West usually comes down to covering ground with your eyes, not your feet. Remember it’s not uncommon to be afield all day, so don’t rush things. Read on for more tips on turkey hunting the West.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.