Broz
Well-Known Member
You don't HAVE to have a .338 to kill anything in North America, But alot of the guys on here seem to push that bullet diameter.
seems like alot of people think you have to have the biggest of everything to do anything. I'll admit it, I've been through that phase in my life,
These are the quotes from your post I was addressing. I was not trying to put you down, but if you say you are not looking for debate then please re-read what I quoted from your post.
Your explanation of what you hunt (WT deer) and your kills at ~700 yards explain why you use what you do. But I have killed Elk at close to 1200 yards, That was what you were answering, right? I have also taken them at 1100, 1000, 800 and down. I agree shot placement is king, but would you argue that a shot with a slight miscalculation of drift at 1200 would not be more likely successful with a larger bullet with more energy? Even if it didn't expand fully it would have to make a larger hole and penetrate deeper correct?
Comparison from the real world to help you understand why I at least like the 338's for past 1200 yards.
My 300 win is no slouch sending 215 gr bullets at 3000 plus.
At 1200 yards with a 10 mph FV 9:00 wind the drift is 43 inches and lands with 1880 pounds of energy.
The 7mm-300 with a 180 VLD @ 3100 plus , same shot has 43" of drift but lands with 1445 pounds of energy.
My 338 with a 300 Berger for the same shot has 32" of drift and lands with 3401 pounds of energy.
Close to 12" less drift and double the energy. You are correct about placement, but can you see where 25% less drift would help you if you are off on the hardest factor to tame, the wind? I am sure I don't need to tell you how this magnifies with distance either.
Again, not trying to put anyone down, just stating what I know, how it works for me in an effort to keep accurate info out there for those considering a shot on an elk at 1200 plus as was stated.
Jeff