Best bullet type for long-range .308 elk shots?

Choosing the Right Bullet for Long-Range Elk Shots

When it comes to long-range elk shots with a .308 Winchester, the right bullet can make all the difference. A high-ballistic-coefficient (BC) boat-tail or match-grade bullet is ideal, as it offers a flatter trajectory and deeper penetration. For instance, the 175-grain or 180-grain Sierra MatchKing or Berger VLD bullets are popular choices among long-range shooters.

Understanding Bullet Penetration and Expansion

Elk are large animals, and a bullet that fails to penetrate deep enough can result in a non-lethal shot. To ensure deep penetration, look for bullets with a high BC (typically above 0.7) and a diameter of at least 0.30 inches. Additionally, consider bullets with a polymer tip or a high-velocity rating, as these can help to maintain weight and prevent fragmentation upon impact.

Tips for Loading and Zeroing Your Rifle

To ensure accurate long-range shots, it’s essential to load your rifle with the correct ammunition and zero it properly. Start by loading the rifle with a light load to determine the point of impact (POI), then incrementally increase the load to achieve the desired trajectory. When zeroing the rifle, use a target with a high degree of accuracy and consider the wind drift and bullet drop at various ranges. A good starting point for zeroing is to aim for 100-200 yards and adjust the elevation and windage as needed.