Quick Answer
The debate surrounding the use of 6x47 Lapua for hunting small game centers on its potential overkill, high kinetic energy, and lack of necessary penetration for certain varmint species.
Overkill Concerns
The 6x47 Lapua’s high velocity and kinetic energy (around 1,200 ft-lbs at 1,000 yards) can be excessive for small game, such as rodents, rabbits, and hares. This can result in unnecessary suffering and destruction of meat, particularly if the animal is not immediately killed. In such cases, a more suitable caliber with less kinetic energy, such as the .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington, would be a better choice.
Ballistic Characteristics
The 6x47 Lapua’s flat trajectory, combined with a relatively high muzzle velocity, makes it suitable for long-range varmint hunting. At 100 yards, the 105-grain bullet travels at approximately 3,200 ft/s, with a drop of only 0.2 inches. However, the same bullet at 500 yards drops by approximately 20 inches, highlighting the need for precise aiming and bullet placement at longer ranges.
Practical Applications
For hunting varmints at closer ranges (e.g., 100-200 yards), the 6x47 Lapua can be a potent choice, particularly when paired with a quality scope and precise shooting. However, for hunting larger predators or at longer ranges, a more suitable caliber with deeper penetration, such as the .243 Winchester or .308 Winchester, would be more effective.
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