Last reviewed: 2026-04-18 by Jake Terry, FFL07/SOT3, NRA-certified firearms instructor.
The Underwood 6.5 Grendel 120 grain Barnes Triple-Shock X is a lead-free hunting load designed for medium-to-large game at extended range. 6.5 Grendel is a necked-down cartridge offering flat trajectories and manageable recoil in AR-15 platforms, and this 120-grain all-copper projectile delivers 2600 feet per second at the muzzle with 1801 foot-pounds of energy. You’re looking at a G1 ballistic coefficient of 0.381 and a sectional density of 0.246 — numbers that translate to retained velocity downrange and reliable expansion on target.
Load Profile
Underwood uses Barnes Triple-Shock X bullets, which are machined from 100% copper and expand into four cutting petals on impact. The solid copper shank remains intact, driving through heavy muscle and bone while the petals create wound channels. Weight retention typically reaches 100%, which means the 120 grains you launch is the 120 grains that stops inside the animal. Nickel-plated brass cases resist corrosion and cycle smoothly through gas systems. Boxer primers allow for straightforward reloading once you’ve collected your brass.
Specs at a Glance
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Cartridge | 6.5 Grendel |
| Bullet weight | 120 Grains |
| Bullet type | Barnes Triple-Shock X Solid Hollow Point |
| Muzzle velocity | 2600 fps |
| Muzzle energy | 1801 ft-lbs |
| G1 Ballistic Coefficient | 0.381 |
| Sectional Density | 0.246 |
| Rounds/box | 20 |
| Case | Nickel Plated Brass |
| Primer | Boxer |
| Corrosive | No |
| Reloadable | Yes |
| Lead Free | Yes |
| Velocity Rating | Supersonic |
| Intended use | Hunting |
| Manufacturer | Underwood Ammunition |
Underwood field-tests every load using real-world firearms and environmental conditions, then backs each box with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This supersonic load meets California lead-free hunting requirements and ships DOT-regulated. Browse more options in our 6.5 Grendel ammo catalog.
Safe Handling & Compliance
Federal law requires purchasers to be at least 18 years old for rifle and shotgun ammunition, and at least 21 for handgun ammunition. Ammunition cannot be shipped to certain states, counties, and cities — review our ammunition shipping restrictions before ordering. Store ammunition in a cool, dry location away from heat sources and out of reach of unauthorized users.
- Observe the four rules of firearm safety at all times — treat every firearm as loaded, keep your finger off the trigger until ready to fire, never point at anything you are not willing to destroy, and know your target and what lies beyond it.
- Verify current state and local ammunition regulations before purchasing — some jurisdictions restrict bullet types, calibers, or capacity limits.
- Confirm your rifle is chambered in 6.5 Grendel and equipped with a barrel appropriate for supersonic loads before firing. All-copper bullets may require different twist rates than lead-core projectiles for optimal accuracy.
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