New Mexico Muzzleloader bullet choice for elk

[Imperial Bull]

Was fortunate to draw another muzzleloader elk tag in New Mexico after a few years and looking to reevaluate my setups. I primarily hunt Oregon for deer when I have a muzzleloader tag and I'm happy with the setup but with elk and fewer restrictions I know there must be something else to try while I wait for the hunt. My primary muzzleloader is a Knight Mountaineer .50 cal shooting 247 grain Thors. Also used it in Idaho on a couple hunts with lead conicals. Last time I hunted New Mexico I used Thor 300 grain, but accuracy was at a mild charge so was hoping to improve. Bullet worked ok. 75 yard shot, couple inches behind crease, bull ran 150 yards and stood dead on his feet. Shot him again to put him down. Currently have a mountaineer .52 cal I thought about taking as well. I have never tried sabots for either but considing it. Also was curious about the bore driver eld x for the .50 but hearing mixed reviews. Open to trying anything really.

Both rifles are set up with an adjustable peep and front globe with crosshair. Primarily use BH 209 (5 grains of triple 7 under BH in Oregon and Idaho for proper ignition with musket caps). I already have 209 conversion kits for both. I appreciate any info. With NW restrictions I don't get to experiment much with bullet choice. Would really like to find a bullet that increases range capabilities. Currently have the accuracy but lack the energy for elk I feel.

Thanks,

Jeff

 

[Kyle Wheeler]

Jeff I also drew a muzzy NM tag and am currently testing bore driver ELDX 340 grain. They are extremely accurate but not sure about terminal performance.

 

[AZShooter]

Last cow I shot with a muzzleloader in NM , and my last due to the scope rule, was the 50 cal 320 gr Fury Universal fit. Shot was 225 yards. It hit the right front shoulder just above the elbow went through sternum area exited with 2" hole. She ran 40 ft and died of internal blood loss. The bullet hit part of heart. My spotter said I missed as the snow flew up behind her when the bullet exited. Then we heard the twack of the hit and her reaction.

Later on, the same year I shot a coues wt at 200 yards just behind the shoulder. It staggered and turned around. My spotter and I exclaimed at same time: "he's dead". There was a large diameter red zone around the exit. He expired immediately.

Two friends use this bullet in their 50 cal muzzleloaders. They have taken several deer, elk and Javelina. To coin the bullet's name we are universally happy with this bullet.

.50 Universal Fit – Fury Custom Bullets

www.furycustombullets.com