True-Range Expanding® (TRX) proven excellence: 10/10 from Bladet Jakt
Lapua’s True-Range Expanding® (TRX) represents latest step forward in lead-free hunting bullets, combining accuracy, consistency, and highest standards in ballistics and terminal performance. Independent testing in Jakt magazine by Jørund Lien compared the TRX in both 6.5 mm and .30 caliber against other lead-free designs, producing results that underscore the precision engineering behind Lapua’s approach.
The 6.5 mm Lapua TRX lead-free hunting bullet: Record-setting accuracy and velocity
The 6.5 mm 9,7 g / 120 Grain TRX demonstrated the best accuracy of all tested lead-free bullets: In the Bergara B14 Nordic Edition, the 6.5 mm TRX achieved 18 mm average group (2×5 shots) using 48 gr of MRP. With 49 gr Vihtavuori N165 powder, the 6.5 mm TRX achieved 21 mm average group with 2×5 shots. In the Blaser R93, the same load produced an even tighter 14 mm average group using 48 gr of MRP. For comparison, the Barnes TTSX 120 gr averaged 25 mm in the Bergara, while the Norma EcoStrike and Sako Blade each grouped at 21 mm in the Blaser.
Muzzle velocities in the Bergara with a 56 cm barrel ranged from 858 m/s (Barnes TTSX) down to 842 m/s (Sako Blade and Sierra Gameking), with the TRX recording 844 m/s. In the Blaser’s 57,7 cm barrel, the TRX delivered 821 m/s with the same 48 gr MRP load.


.30 caliber Lapua TRX: precision and performance in 9,7 g / 150 gr & 10,7 g / 165 gr lead-free hunting bullets
Lapua has also introduced the True-Range Expanding® (TRX) in .30 caliber, offering 9,7 g / 150 gr and 10,7 g / 165 gr lead-free bullets. The 9,7 g / 150 gr design is especially well-suited to .308 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield, combining a favorable ballistic coefficient with reliable accuracy.
The 9,7 g / 150 gr TRX was tested in three different .308 Winchester rifles and two .30-06 rifles, 10,7 g / 165 grs only in .30-06. All loads were developed close to or at maximum charge based on experience with powders for loading homogeneous copper bullets of the same weight. The exception was a new lot of Vihtavuori N150, which gave lower muzzle velocity than N140 in .308 Win.
With 45 grains of Vihtavuori N140, two of the three .308 Win rifles showed the best precision. That all three rifles managed 1 MOA with five shots is proof enough of the 9,7 g / 150 gr TRX’s accuracy.
In .30-06, the 9,7 g / 150 gr TRX produced excellent results: In the Blaser R8, the 150 gr TRX achieved 18 mm average group (2×5 shots) using 61 gr Vihtavuori N560. In the S&L rifle with the 51 gr N550 powder, the .30 caliber 9,7 g / 150 gr TRX achieved 15 mm average group.
The heavier 10,7 g / 165 gr TRX was also tested in .30-06, achieving 19–21 mm averages. While accurate, the 9,7 g / 150 gr version provided higher muzzle velocity.




Lapua TRX: The Next Evolution in lead-free Hunting Ammunition
The new Lapua True-Range Expanding® (TRX) has already shown strong results in terms of both accuracy and expansion. Early testing indicates that TRX meets and matches the standards set by other leading lead-free hunting bullets. It stands as a reliable choice for hunters who demand precision and consistent terminal effect featuring the highest quality components recognized by the world’s best precision shooting enthusiasts, including Lapua cartridge cases and Vihtavuori propellants.
“New solid copper bullet that impresses in the first test!” — Jørund Lien, Jakt
Factory-loaded TRX® Ammunition available this autumn in 6.5 x 55 SE, as well as 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. More information on these products coming soon. Other TRX bullet and cartridge offerings announced later this year – stay tuned for more!