anyone had a bad experience with XTP bullets?

Ive done a lot of reading and the look like a fantastic defensive round. Although they don't offer amazing expansion like a golden saber, the never really fail to expand, and they have really good penetration, it this the general consensus?

Work great for me. Premium bullets usually perform well though. It's kind of expected.

I've done some backyard testing XTP bullets and I like them in every caliber from .32 to 45ACP.
Actually, I don't even know how many hundreds/thousands of XTP bullets I have on hand for reloading.

.430 240gr XTP bullets fired out of a .50 caliber muzzleloader pushed by 100grs of Pyrodex expand dramatically! Kill deer like lightning bolts!!

Noslers and the Remmy GS group tighter out of my pistols. never shot any game with 'em.

XTPs aren't the best at defeating heavy clothing. They're best as a deep-penetrating summer carry load, or for hunting.

I've taken two deer with 140 grain HP/XTP bullets. One with a 4 3/4" Colt SAA and one with a Ruger 6 1/2". Both bullets opened up to about twice their original diameter of .357...

I, also, use them for self defense in .357 magnum, 9mmX19 and .45 ACP.

RyanM what information is this statement based on?

Jello testing, mainly. For instance: http://www.brassfetcher.com/Various%20JHPs%20(Heavy%20denim%20from%20a%20Glock%2027).html

Can't find others off the top of my head, but XTPs plug up more often than most of the other "premium" bullets, though not as much as older designs, like Silvertips or original Hydra-Shoks.

They are a good summer load if you want around 14-15" penetration, though.

I like the 185 grainers in my .45. They kick less and they go faster, making them easier for me to shoot accurately.

158's in my .357 work fine for me, accurate and expand nicely. 200-230 grain in my .45's are a different story. They are accurate but expansion has been an issue. I've done some hillbilly balistic testing with wet-pack and water jugs and the results stink. Unless I drive the xtp's to 1000+fps they won't expand, they actually fold the hollow point closed at lower speeds.

No this isn't proper scientific testing but I would expect the rounds to expand in water at least. I'm now using speer hp's for my .45 but I do like and load xtp's for my .357.

It depends if your loading for hunting or carry, Personally I dont carry my reloads I just spend the money on a box of +Ps, Double Taps at the moment, its just one more thing for a lawyer to throw in your face. If it comes down to it the jury of your peers probably wont actually be your peers (relaoders, hunters, or have ever even held a gun) They will just think your a wacko that spends all your time making ammo for the "invasion" ya know?