I have a accurate load worked up for my 250Savage at 2950fps using the 100gr ballistic tips. Reading the posts makes me wonder if a partition might be a better way to go for the pronghorn and mule deer I hunt with this rifle. I've killed many with the factory silver tips in this rifle, and my son killed a antelope and mule deer this fall with the ballistic tips. The antelope had a pretty large (3") exit wound, but was definitely dead. The mulie took a broadside to the chest at 50 yards. He did put him down with a neck shot, rather than watch him stand there and bleed to death. So I know the ballistic tips will do the trick if placed properly and not pushed too fast. I guess my question is- Does a premium bullet make sense in a caliber such as the .250Savage on game of this size?

Unlike some of the other prem. bullets the Partition will open up quickly and still retain a large portion of it's weight.
If your willing to pay more for these bullets then the standards and youre getting good accuracy, then it's a no brainer.
I loaded some up in my 2506 just the other day and cant wait to see the results on paper. There is no doubt in my mind that they will do the job on the field.

Sounds like you're already having success with the ballistic tips. They shoot well and perform well. I've used them in a number of calibers and I really like them. I've found, in my rifles, that the partitions don't shoot as well. If they work for you, go for it. I think you'd be fine with the ballistic tips though.

Bob257

I agree that Nosler Partitions will work OK at .250 Savage velocities. They expand even at low speeds. I have always gotten EXCELLENT accuracy with NPJ's!!

[ 02-03-2003, 19:54: Message edited by: eldeguello ]

pharmpoke,

My .243AI has killed several pronghorns at ranges between 300-350yds. using 95gr. Ballistic Tips.

I think your use of the Ballistic Tip is a good one, considering the game and the velocities your rifle is producing.

Had you asked about deer, I would have recommended the Partition instead.

George

i use 120 gr speers in mine and it kills really well but the fastest i can go is 2550 fps with a case load of h4831

Know the terminal balistics of your chosen bullet, and place your shots accordingly. The only reason to switch to a partition is if you want to place shots that you would consider marginal with balistic tips.

There is no wonder bullet for every shot presentation, each bullet has advantages and disadvantages.

Personally, I'd use a partition, or barnes X in small bore, but that doesn't mean it is the best choice, just my personal choice.

Given the cartridge and modest velocity, I would make accuracy my #1 criteria in this case. Most any standard bullet is going to do what you need it too on medium game, at .250 Savage speeds.
Don't over look the Hornady 100 grainers either!

I too like the 100 Horn, Sierra claims their 86gn bullet is good for deer size animals, I havn't tried that but I know they sure shoot good in my 250's, would like to hear if anyone has tried them?

With the BT's, you will need to be careful about hitting bone or bad angles on deer. Pronghorn seldom present a problem in this regard. But, based on my experiences with the .243 class stuff, the Nosler Partition will work on deer w/o concerns over bone hits, or bad angles. Angle to hip penetration, and taking out both sholders would happen every time.
The Hornady Interlock bullets should work well too. Better than the Ballistic Tips. E