Looking for direct experience with the 117 gr. BTSP when started at 257 Roberts velocities of 2700-2800 fps. I am contemplating their use on white-tail deer and want to know how they will hold together on the closer (under 100 yds) shots. Also still would like good expansion out to 250-300 yds (my self-imposed max range).

I have had great luck on deer with other Hornady bullets in .277 and .308 diameters, but those were all flat-base spire points. I have always stayed away from boat-tail bullets in the past except for the Interbond. I would just go with the Hornady .257 120 HP flat-base but I have heard a few reports indicating that it may be a little too hard for the Roberts.

I just Hornady made a regular plain flat-base Interlock in .257 diameter somewhere between 115-120 grs.

Thanks,
Mark in GA

I've heard good things, so I loaded them up in my 25-06 this year. Unfortunately, all I was able to shoot was a watermelon. No deer crossed my line of fire, so I am as interested as you in their true performance.

Mark-
That's a great bullet for the Roberts. I've used it, and Sierra's 117 grainer, with great one shot kills on western mulies. I must also say range was considerably further than 100 yards tho, more like 300, so what it will do up close and personal, I don't know. FWIW, I have had very good results with Nosler's 100 grain ballistic tip too.