A Legacy of Power and Precision
The Buffalo Bore Ethos
In the world of firearms, the right ammunition can be the difference between a successful hunt, effective self-defense, and a disappointing day at the range. The market boasts a wide array of choices, from budget-friendly options to premium rounds engineered for maximum performance. Among the most respected names in the high-performance ammunition game are Buffalo Bore and Underwood Ammo. Both companies have earned reputations for producing potent and reliable ammunition, but they approach the task from slightly different angles. This article delves into a comprehensive comparison of Buffalo Bore vs. Underwood, exploring their histories, product lines, performance characteristics, and suitability for various applications, to help you make an informed decision.
The Underwood Approach
Before we dive into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the foundations upon which these companies are built. Buffalo Bore, a name synonymous with serious firepower, was founded with a clear mission: to manufacture ammunition that pushed the boundaries of performance, specifically designed for demanding applications. They carved their niche by focusing on maximum energy delivery and consistently exceeding the velocity and power specifications of standard factory loads. Their reputation is built on delivering rounds that are often considered “over-pressure” by industry standards, resulting in ammunition that is capable of delivering unparalleled power. The company’s dedication to this ethos has made them a favorite among hunters and those who prioritize stopping power in self-defense situations.
Underwood Ammo, while sharing the pursuit of excellence, takes a somewhat different approach. They present a modern and innovative approach to ammunition manufacturing. They emphasize performance, but coupled with a commitment to a wider selection of calibers and bullet types. Their focus is not only on the sheer power of their rounds but also on cutting-edge bullet designs and a user-friendly approach to ammunition. Their appeal extends beyond hunters and those focused on self-defense, attracting a broader audience that includes sport shooters and those looking for reliable and consistent performance.
Comparing these two companies is like comparing two thoroughbred horses. Both are capable of incredible feats, but their strengths lie in different areas. Buffalo Bore represents the classic, no-compromise approach to maximum power, while Underwood offers a blend of performance and innovation, with a broader spectrum of options.
Exploring the Ammunition Arsenal
Buffalo Bore Product Lines
To truly understand these brands, one must examine their product offerings. Buffalo Bore is known for a carefully curated selection of calibers, with a concentration on those that benefit most from increased power and performance. You’ll find robust loads across a variety of popular handgun calibers, including .38 Special, 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and, of course, a substantial range of revolver rounds. They also offer ammunition for rifles, targeting the hunting market with rounds for cartridges like the .30-30 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and various magnum calibers. Their bullet choices are carefully selected to reflect their focus on maximum penetration and expansion. They lean heavily on proven bullet designs, favoring hard-cast lead bullets for maximum penetration in dangerous game, full metal jacket (FMJ) options for practice, and jacketed hollow points (JHPs) designed for controlled expansion.
Underwood Ammo Offerings
Underwood Ammo takes a more comprehensive approach to their product lines, offering a wide array of options across numerous calibers. They have a significant presence in handgun ammunition, similar to Buffalo Bore, and expand their offerings into even more calibers. They cater to those who own oddball and niche firearms. They consistently offer ammunition in popular calibers such as 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and 10mm Auto, but also in more exotic calibers that Buffalo Bore might not. Their rifle offerings are equally diverse. Underwood’s strength is the innovative nature of their ammunition. You will find some of the most innovative and high-performance bullets on the market.
The key difference in their approach to product lines is the breadth of Underwood’s offerings. While Buffalo Bore focuses on a more curated and highly potent selection, Underwood caters to a wider audience and is more likely to offer options for niche applications.
The Science of Stopping Power
Velocity and Its Impact
Performance is where the rubber meets the road. When comparing Buffalo Bore vs. Underwood, several key metrics must be considered: velocity, energy, penetration, and expansion.
Velocity, the speed at which a bullet travels, is a critical factor. Faster bullets generally deliver more energy and, in some cases, offer flatter trajectories. Buffalo Bore is often associated with its high-velocity loads. Their goal is to get the most out of any cartridge, maximizing its power potential, and increasing velocities is crucial for achieving this. This pursuit of velocity frequently leads to higher energy levels.
Underwood, while also prioritizing velocity, tends to strike a balance. They will generally be competitive with Buffalo Bore, but also focus on maximizing bullet performance at different velocities. Their focus is on optimizing bullet designs to achieve the best possible performance at different impact velocities.
Energy and its Significance
Bullet energy, measured in foot-pounds, is a direct measure of a bullet’s potential to do work. It is a critical factor for both self-defense and hunting. Rounds from Buffalo Bore consistently deliver some of the highest energy figures in their respective categories. This is a direct result of their emphasis on maximum powder charges and high velocities. The difference in energy can be significant when comparing a specific round from each brand.
Underwood’s ammunition typically generates higher energy levels than many other brands, and can often compete directly with Buffalo Bore in energy output.
Penetration and Expansion
Penetration, the depth to which a bullet travels into a target, is paramount for self-defense and hunting. A bullet must penetrate far enough to reach vital organs and disable a threat or provide a clean, ethical kill. Buffalo Bore is known for prioritizing deep penetration, particularly in their hunting loads and hard-cast bullets.
Underwood also designs their bullets for effective penetration, but they might emphasize expansion a bit more in certain self-defense rounds.
The Role of Recoil
Expansion, the increase in a bullet’s diameter upon impact, is another vital factor. Expansion creates a larger wound channel, causing more tissue damage and increasing the likelihood of incapacitation. Both companies offer rounds designed for optimal expansion, but their approaches may differ. Buffalo Bore may lean on the use of specialized projectiles for specific applications, and Underwood often utilizes modern bullet designs that open aggressively while maintaining excellent penetration.
Recoil, the force felt when a firearm is discharged, is also important, as excessive recoil can affect accuracy and follow-up shots. Both Buffalo Bore and Underwood ammunition are generally known to produce more felt recoil due to the power of their loads. The higher velocities and heavier bullets contribute to this.
Ultimately, the performance comparison comes down to individual rounds and specific applications.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Buffalo Bore’s Strengths
Both Buffalo Bore and Underwood bring unique strengths to the table.
Buffalo Bore’s advantages are numerous. They offer the benefit of concentrated, high-power loads for those who prioritize raw stopping power. Their reputation for consistent quality and focus is a significant selling point. The dedication to maximizing performance in specific cartridges is another advantage, particularly for demanding tasks.
Buffalo Bore’s Shortcomings
However, Buffalo Bore also has its disadvantages. Their ammunition can be more expensive. The focus on maximizing power might mean that recoil is more significant compared to other ammunition choices. The range of calibers and bullet types is also smaller than Underwood.
Underwood’s Benefits
Underwood offers a more compelling balance of advantages. They offer high-performance ammunition, sometimes at more competitive prices. The wider selection of calibers and bullet types makes it easier to find ammunition for a wider variety of firearms and tasks. The presence of innovative bullet designs means better performance in both hunting and self-defense.
Underwood’s Drawbacks
However, Underwood is not perfect. While their prices are often competitive, they can still be more expensive than basic factory loads. The sheer number of options can sometimes be overwhelming.
The Costs and Where to Find It
Pricing varies based on caliber, bullet type, and the retailer. Buffalo Bore ammunition generally commands a premium due to its manufacturing techniques, the use of high-quality components, and the pursuit of maximum performance.
Underwood, while not necessarily a budget brand, often offers more competitive prices, particularly when comparing to other premium brands. This can be a significant factor for shooters who use a lot of ammunition.
Both Buffalo Bore and Underwood ammunition are widely available through online retailers specializing in ammunition, as well as at many gun stores.
In the Field: Real-World Impressions (Optional)
Anecdotal evidence from the field, through independent testing and reviews, often supports the manufacturer’s claims. Gelatin tests and performance evaluations have consistently demonstrated Buffalo Bore’s ability to penetrate deeply and deliver significant energy. Underwood has earned praise for its accuracy, controlled expansion, and reliability.
Which One is Right for You?
Choosing between Buffalo Bore and Underwood is a personal decision that depends on the intended use of the ammunition and individual preferences. For those who prioritize maximum power and stopping power above all else, Buffalo Bore might be the better choice, particularly if the intended task involves dangerous game or self-defense against large threats.
For those seeking a balance of power, innovation, and a wider selection of options, Underwood may be a superior choice. If you want to equip a broader range of firearms and use ammunition for both hunting and self-defense, Underwood’s product line offers more versatility.
Final Thoughts
Both Buffalo Bore and Underwood have earned their place among the leading ammunition manufacturers. They deliver high-quality, reliable ammunition for a wide range of applications. By understanding their strengths, weaknesses, and the specific needs you have, you can make an informed decision about which brand is the best fit for you. Remember that the best ammunition is always the one that is properly matched to your firearm, your intended use, and your own shooting ability.
