Well, you have raised an interesting subject. Generally, when we are talking predator hunting on this forum we are referring to coyotes, bobcats, etc. But now, a 200 pound wolf would be a whole different subject.

Having said that, I have called in and shot 250 pound black bear, but I used a 7mm Wby Mag for that.

I think you may be on the right track, I agree that the 115 grain Ballistic Tip is a good load for a 25-06. I have shot a number of antelope, coyotes, and hogs with it and it worked great with minimal exit hole damage.

I have also shot a number of coyotes with the 75 grain Hornady V-Max. It does a great job. They die like they were struck by lightning and I cannot remember one exiting or if they did, they did not make a large hole. Admitedly, a shot to the shoulder might just make a big mess.

On that subject, I can highly recommend you stay away from the 85 grain Ballistic Tip. As good as the 115 grain version is, the 85 grain is useless for anything bigger than a rock chuck. My buddies and I used to shoot lots of them but Nosler elected to change the construction a few years ago and we now find them about useless. I have seen several coyotes shot on the point of the shoulder with the 85 grain Ballistic Tip that had to be shot again because it only caused a HUGE surface wound and never reached the vitals.

These bullets used to work quite well, but not now. I love them for shooting ground squirrels and rock chucks, but gave up on them for coyotes and bobcats and now use the 75 grain V-Max.

For predators the size you are talking about I think I would stick with the 115 Ballistic Tip. That is a remarkable bullet.

Good luck, please let us know how you do.

R F