Alexander Arms markets its 129-grain SST load for medium-game hunting. It is loaded with Hornady's SST, a polymer-tipped hunting bullet with a lead core, at 129 grains. It leaves the muzzle at 2,238 fps with 1,435 ft-lbs of energy, a slower start in exchange for more bullet.

Compared with Hornady's Custom 123-grain SST, which uses the same kind of bullet in a lighter weight, the Alexander Arms load leaves the muzzle 342 fps slower and starts with 383 fewer ft-lbs. In return it kicks about 5 percent less in the same rifle. Compared with Federal's Fusion 120-grain, a soft point with its copper jacket bonded to a lead core, it is 362 fps slower at the muzzle and starts with 366 fewer ft-lbs.

Buy the Alexander Arms 129 SST if you want Hornady's SST bullet at 129 grains and a little less recoil than Hornady's own 123. Pick Hornady's Custom 123 SST if you want the same kind of bullet with a much faster start; Hornady markets it for medium game. Pick the Fusion 120 if you want a bonded soft point, which Federal markets for big game, along with more speed. If you also shoot at targets, Federal's Gold Medal 130-grain Hybrid OTM, which Federal sells for target shooting, uses a similar bullet weight and leaves the muzzle 162 fps faster.