Barnes MRX (on left)
In the beginning, Barnes created the X-Bullet, which was made of solid copper and was long for its diameter. Then came the Triple-Shock X-Bullet, which solved most of the X's problems through the use of multiple relieving grooves. Now comes the Maximum-Range X-Bullet, with a blue Delrin tip and a tungsten (heavier than lead) core. This one performs like a world-beater, available in .270 through .338, sold in 20-bullet boxes, and loaded in Federal Premium Vital-Shok ammunition. Price depends on caliber. 800-574-9200; barnesbullets.com --D.E.P.

Federal Fusion (middle)
Just when you thought there were no new ways to make a bullet, Federal proved that wrong. The Fusion is made by bombarding a lead core with copper molecules. Those little copper buggers cling to the core, forming a jacket of inspirational uniformity and consistency. The Fusion is a "deer-¿ bullet, at deer-bullet prices, but with premium-bullet performance. The deer should be honored. Available in .243 through .338. Price depends on caliber. 800-322-2342; fusionammo.com --D.E.P.

Winchester Supreme Elite XP3 (right)
Supreme ammo has been around for a while. What's new is the XP3 bullet, which is a lineal descendant of the Fail Safe slug but with better aerodynamics and accuracy. The polymer-tipped, bonded-core bullet expands in two stages, and it can be used on any type of game. Weight retention is more than 90 percent in most cases. And its little translucent-red tip, combined with the black-coated bullet, makes a bold fashion statement. Available in .270 through .300 WSM and .300 Win. Mag. Price depends on caliber. winchester.com --D.E.P.