Here are results of tests I've done comparing the Hornady "original" 480 gr 458 DGX non-bonded to the Hornady "current" 480 gr 458 DGX bonded. Both tests were in my wetpack media- which is truly a severe test for any bullet. Impact velocity for both was approx. 2000-2150 fps. Both old and new versions of this DGX bullet appear to be externally identical.
The penetration of the non-bonded original version was less than 12" with pieces being scattered along the track. The deepest penetration was a lead fragment from the base section.
The new bonded version penetrated in a straight line to just over 20" which is in upper end of the ranges of most quality expanding bullets such as A Frames, TSXs and TBBCs in most common calibers tested at normal hunting impact velocities- 30 cal through 45 cal.
The DGX bonded version on right showed good symmetrical expansion and retained 95% mass. It appears that, in addition to the core to jacket bonding, the jacket is internally skived for 8 petals.
