Although expensive in comparison to 'normal' bullets, the Barnes copper bullets interest me in the .222 with their potential for reduced carcass damage particularly if a bone is struck. I contacted Barnes and their information is that both their .224" 45 and 50 gr TSX FB bullets will stabilise in a 1:14 twist barrel and will expand at velocities down to 1,900 fps. This velocity is retained to just over 250 yards in the .222 if the 45 and 50 gr bullets can be loaded as per the Barnes reloading data for muzzle velocities of 3,200 and 3,000 fps respectively. However, it is worth bearing in mind that bullet energy declines quite quickly and will have fallen to around 400 ft lbs at 250 yards. So accurately placed, these bullets look to have real potential in the .222 for small deer at sensible ranges.