A few years ago, I started handloading for my brother's .243 WSSM bolt gun that he uses to DESTROY nefarious ground squirrels with at the ranch. It's quite entertaining, to say the least.<BR><BR>The first batch of missiles I loaded up were the Nosler 55gr Ballistic Tips. However, I am thinking it is time to try something new. Being a big fan of the V-MAX in all it's different calibers and weights, I would like to load up either some 58 or 87 grain pills for him.<BR><BR>After running the numbers (below in graphical form), I am torn as to which one I should choose. Of course, the answer is going to be "the one that shoots the best!". But HYPOTHETICALLY, if they both shoot equally well, which would you go with?<BR><BR>Given the data below and considering that most vermin are shot at 50 to 200 yards away, I personally, would go with the one that gives the biggest splatter and air show. But I'm curious as to what all of you think.<BR><BR>Rifle: Browning A-Bolt, 22" bbl, 1-10" twist<BR><BR>(I know the velocity numbers may be a bit generous, but the data is from the Hodgdon website and the likely powder(s) that I plan to use)<BR><BR><IMG class="inline_image" SRC="http://i928.photobucket.com/albums/ad124/Nouveau-Dixie/Fullscreencapture224201283535PMbmp.jpg"> <BR><BR><IMG class="inline_image" SRC="http://i928.photobucket.com/albums/ad124/Nouveau-Dixie/Fullscreencapture224201283852PMbmp.jpg"> Which would you go with?58 grain V-MAX87 grain V-MAXI don't really care, but I like to vote as often as possible. Thanks ACORN!

I shot 87gr bullets in my 2506 and they work very well at blowing varmints apart.