Twist-Match Bullet
The new modified, long-range bullet from Thompson Long Range
Higher Impact
Increased Accuracy
Less Resistance
Mark Thompson Founder of Thompson Long Range
How it started
For years, I’ve wanted to improve the flight of a bullet, and the best approach seemed to be modifying existing designs. I experimented with various methods, some quite unconventional. Along the way, I realized that by increasing the surface area of the nose or ogive, I could reduce resistance.
Some bullet manufacturers achieve this by lengthening the nose, but this can cause stability issues. Additionally, for those who prefer loading close to the lands, it can make the cartridge too long for the magazine box.
How it Works
By cutting grooves through the radius of the ogive, I realized I could maintain a shorter nose while still increasing the surface area. However, the grooves had to align with the barrel’s twist for the test to be meaningful. I experimented with various depths, widths, lengths, and the number of grooves, primarily using a 1:10 right-hand twist rifle.
What became immediately evident was the improved accuracy – consistent, tighter groups at several distances, up to and including 1,200 yards with the Twist Match bullets. For comparison, I used the exact same bullet without grooves, ensuring the weights and muzzle velocities were identical.
Twist-Match Difference
The modified Twist Match bullet showed a higher impact on the target compared to the non-modified bullet, indicating a flatter trajectory. A flatter flight path clearly means it retained a higher velocity and energy.
Est. non-modified bullet impact
Est. Twist-Match bullet impact
Increased Performance
I knew I was onto something, so I filed for a patent, and after a long wait, I was granted one for the Twist Match bullet. With the patent secured, further testing was warranted. Lacking sophisticated equipment, I conducted all my tests in the field, behind the rifle. After countless hours and piles of brass, the benefits of the Twist Match grooves became even clearer. I even shot test bullets into media at 800 and 1,000 yards, and the grooved bullets expanded more than the non-grooved ones. This could be due to the higher velocity or the grooves helping with expansion, though I believe the grooves themselves had minimal impact on that.
I’m not bullet manufacturer, but if you’re curious, sign up for the Thompson Long Range shooting class, and I’ll let you send some of the prototype bullets downrange!
Shooting School
Long Range Rifles
See our full selection of long range precision rifles that we use at Thompson Long Range. After completing the long range shooting course, you have the option to purchase your Weatherby rifle.