Re: 165 gr. Nosler Ballistic tip for Elk in a 300 WM

20 December 2004, 07:39

Since I've been reloading, I have noticed that generally, there are 2 types of people regarding caliber and bullets.

1) Many many hunters, "like a big for caliber bullet."

2) Several hunters want a smaller, faster, flatter shooting bullet per caliber.

Another thing I've noticed is there's plenty of guys that are 'one bullet, one gun' hunters. Yet, not everyone has or can afford more than one rifle, therefore, they like to experiment with several loads per gun.

I like 2 loads per gun myself, just because.

One can argue, why bother going with a bigger bullet per caliber when you can just get a bigger diameter gun? I'd say to that: Because a bigger bullet per caliber is longer, hence better BC and increased odds of better penetration.

And it all really doens't matter anyway, the only ethical way to kill animals is with a bow!! ....let the rumble begin! < !--color-->

20 December 2004, 07:52

stubblejumper

Quote:

However, a 200 grain TSX from the same gun in the same situation will deliver more energy won't it? And perhaps a bit larger wound channel? And maybe drop the animal quicker?

Since the bullet will almost certainly exit,neither bullet will be able to deliver all of it's energy but both will certainly deliver more than enough to do the job.I do not have a great deal of experience with a variety of x bullets but from what I have seen ,the wound channels appear similar for a given bullet diameter reguardless of the bullet weight.This was from observing the results of the barnes xlc in 165gr and 180gr(.308") and the failsafe in 140gr and 160gr(both 7mm).As for maybe dropping the elk quicker,that is a very large maybe.My quickest kills by far on elk and moose have been made with the 180gr ballistic tips out of my 300ultramag.Not known for great penetration,but they have done a great job on the 8 elk and 2 moose that I have used them on.I would use the x bullets or failsafes but they don't shoot nearly as well in my rifles.I am however going to try the tsx's next spring as they do shoot very well in other rifles that I have observed.I doubt however that anyone will argue that the best way to maximize penetration and wound channel size is to simply use a larger diameter bullet of suitable construction.

Quote:

hence better BC and increased odds of better penetration.

While many would argue that sectional density effects penetration,ballistic co-efficient is not considered to be a factor where penetration is concerned unless you are speaking about penetration through air.

20 December 2004, 08:00

Doc

Quote:

While many would argue that sectional density effects penetration,ballistic co-efficient is not considered to be a factor where penetration is concerned unless you are speaking about penetration through air.

Well, if you penetrate air better, wouldn't you have maintained velocity, thus, maintained flesh penetrating ability?

Plus, BC is a function of SD isn't it?

Like I said, it's all unethical anyway unless you use a bow.

20 December 2004, 08:24

stubblejumper

Quote:

Well, if you penetrate air better, wouldn't you have maintained velocity, thus, maintained flesh penetrating ability?

Actually most bullets expand more and penetrate less at higher velocities.The exception would be the x bullets and failsafes where more velocity can break off the petals which increases penetration but with a smaller wound channel.

20 December 2004, 08:26

Doc

Quote:

Actually most bullets expand more and penetrate less at higher velocities.The exception would be the x bullets and failsafes where more velocity can break off the petals which increases penetration but with a smaller wound channel.

Yea, I know, isn't that where this topic has gone? Towards the TSX/FailSafe type bullet??

Trust me, I'm not trying to argue with you at all. Your points are well taken. I'm still trying to get someone to bite at the whole archery comment.

20 December 2004, 17:24

Chuck Nelson

The deal was based on a good reason and although yours was as predictable as snow in February, it wasn't very good. No matter, I'll leave you alone anyway.

Chuck