Buffalo Bore 10mm ammo falls into two clear families. One side runs hot, with heavy bullets for the woods. The other side is the Tactical Low Recoil line, which tames the kick for easier control. Knowing which side you need makes the choice simple. This guide lays out every Buffalo Bore 10mm load we stock, with the maker’s published speed and energy.
The Full-Power Side
These loads use most of what the 10mm Auto can give. They are aimed at hunters, hikers and anyone who wants a strong load in the field.
Outdoorsman 220-Grain Flat Nose
The Buffalo Bore Outdoorsman 220-grain flat nose lists 1,200 fps and 703 ft-lb. A heavy, wide flat-nose bullet is a common choice when straight-line penetration matters more than expansion. This is the load many people think of for bear country.
Dangerous Game 190-Grain Solid Copper
The Dangerous Game 190-grain solid copper uses a Lehigh solid wide flat nose bullet. It lists 1,200 fps and 607 ft-lb. It is lead free and does not expand. The solid copper build holds its shape on hard targets.
180-Grain JHP
The Buffalo Bore 180-grain JHP lists 1,350 fps and 728 ft-lb. That is the highest listed energy of any load in this lineup. A hollow point expands, so it suits deer and hogs where handgun hunting is legal, and defense use.
155-Grain TAC-XP Lead Free
This load uses a Barnes TAC-XP all-copper hollow point. It lists 1,350 fps and 627 ft-lb. It is a good pick if you need lead-free ammo.
200-Grain FMJ
The 200-grain FMJ lists 1,200 fps and 639 ft-lb. It works for practice with full-power recoil.
The Tactical Low Recoil Side
Not everyone wants full-power recoil. The Tactical Low Recoil line keeps bullet weights the same but drops the speed. That makes fast follow-up shots easier, especially in smaller 10mm pistols.
- The Low Recoil 180-grain JHP lists 1,200 fps and 575 ft-lb.
- The Low Recoil 180-grain FMJ lists the same numbers, so it makes a matched practice load.
- The Low Recoil 220-grain flat nose lists 1,050 fps and 539 ft-lb.
- A 155-grain Low Recoil JHP is also available.
Even the Low Recoil 180-grain loads list more speed than many standard 10mm range loads. For example, the Federal American Eagle 180-grain FMJ lists 1,030 fps.
Buffalo Bore 10mm Comparison Table
| Load | Grain | Bullet | Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lb) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TAC-XP Lead Free | 155 | Copper HP | 1,350 | 627 |
| 180 JHP | 180 | JHP | 1,350 | 728 |
| Dangerous Game | 190 | Solid copper FN | 1,200 | 607 |
| 200 FMJ | 200 | FMJ | 1,200 | 639 |
| Outdoorsman | 220 | Flat nose | 1,200 | 703 |
| Low Recoil 155 JHP | 155 | JHP | Not listed | Not listed |
| Low Recoil 180 JHP | 180 | JHP | 1,200 | 575 |
| Low Recoil 180 FMJ | 180 | FMJ | 1,200 | 575 |
| Low Recoil 220 | 220 | Flat nose | 1,050 | 539 |
All figures are Buffalo Bore’s published muzzle data. Your barrel length will change the real numbers.
Can a 10mm Stop a Bear?
It is the question we hear most about this ammo. Many hikers, anglers and guides carry a 10mm in bear country. Most pick heavy, non-expanding bullets like the Outdoorsman or Dangerous Game. These are built to go deep instead of opening up.
Still, be realistic. A bear is big, fast and tough. Shot placement matters more than any box of ammo. Many wildlife agencies suggest bear spray as a first line. If you carry a pistol, practice drawing and shooting it under pressure. Check local rules on carrying firearms in parks and public lands.
How to Choose Buffalo Bore 10mm Ammo
- Know your gun. Make sure your pistol is chambered for 10mm Auto and in good shape. Full-power loads add recoil and wear.
- Pick by job. Bear country: Outdoorsman or Dangerous Game. Deer and hogs: 180-grain JHP. Lead-free needs: TAC-XP or Dangerous Game. Easier control: Low Recoil.
- Test it. Shoot a box to check function and point of impact.
- Check the rules. Hunting and carry laws vary by state.
Want to compare? Our Underwood 10mm ammo guide covers another maker of stout 10mm loads. You can also learn how to read 10mm gel test results.
Shop Buffalo Bore 10mm Ammo
See every load in our Buffalo Bore collection, or compare all makers in our 10mm ammo section. These loads ship in 20-round boxes, so it is easy to buy a few and test them.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a 10mm kill a bear?
A 10mm can stop a bear with good shot placement and a bullet built for deep penetration. Many people in bear country carry one with heavy hard cast or solid copper loads. A handgun is still a last resort, and many agencies suggest bear spray first.
Which Buffalo Bore load is best for bear?
Most people choose the Outdoorsman 220-grain flat nose or the Dangerous Game 190-grain solid copper. Both are non-expanding bullets made for depth. Test them in your pistol to make sure they feed and that you can control the recoil.
What is Buffalo Bore Tactical Low Recoil?
Tactical Low Recoil is a Buffalo Bore line that keeps normal bullet weights but lowers the speed. That cuts recoil and makes follow-up shots easier. For example, the Low Recoil 180-grain JHP lists 1,200 fps, while the full-power 180-grain JHP lists 1,350 fps.
Is 10mm good for bear defense?
The 10mm is a common choice for bear defense among hikers and anglers who want a semi-auto pistol. It holds more rounds than most revolvers. Choose heavy, non-expanding bullets, practice often, and carry bear spray as well. Check local carry rules.
Is Buffalo Bore ammo safe in any 10mm pistol?
These loads are made for firearms chambered in 10mm Auto that are in good condition. Full-power loads add recoil and wear. If you have doubts about your pistol, ask its maker or a qualified gunsmith first.
