My question will illustrate my lack of re-loading knowledge BUT

How much of a reduced load can one get away with in the 404 Jeffery? Can it be brought down to 375 H&H levels ie a 270 or even 250 grain bullet with corresponding reduced recoil while maintaining decent velocities?

Why do I ask? I have a 404 in Africa that I use, but the next few hunts will not be for DG, and it seems a bit much to pop an impala or whatever else comes along with 400 grains, as well as the increased recoil etc.

There are other bullet weights in .423". You might consider the Northfork 380 grain soft points for instance at 2300 fps. It's actually recommended by the manufacturer for thin skinned game at that velocity for an easy shooting rifle. I haven't done any recoil calculation of that load versus a .375 diameter 300 grain bullet at 2500 fps but I would bet the felt recoil wouldn't be much different.

this is your lucky day! Donnelly's book says: 400gr RN in front of 65gr of 3031 for 2150fps. Try cutting that to about 60gr and see how hard it hits you.

regards,

Rich
DRSS

I am not a believer in loading down and "lobbing" a heavier bullet. When you slow a bullet down, you reduce your effective range at which the bullet will open. Bullets are designed to function at a certain velocity and if you get out of that range, you will be disappointed. If you don't care if it opens; well hell, just shoot cast or solids.

To reduce recoil punishment, keep your velocity up and use a lighter bullet. They'll work fine on the lighter animals and will allow shots at much greater range than lobed pumpkin balls.

I remember reading about some people on this forum that have used the 340gr North Fork and they spoke about them in glowing terms. They don't list them on the bullet section of NF's website, but they are listed in the price section. I do not know if this bullet is readily available from them. Maybe an E-mail or call to North Fork could clear this up. someone on here might even have that answer as well.