Quick Answer
For hunting mule deer with a .280 Remington, a well-balanced bullet with a moderate to high sectional density is ideal. Look for a flat-nose or boat-tail bullet with a weight between 140 and 160 grains. This range provides the necessary penetration and expansion.
Bullet Characteristics
When selecting a bullet for the .280 Remington, consider a flat-nose or boat-tail design. These shapes help to prevent over-expansion and ensure deep penetration, crucial for taking down larger mule deer. A moderate to high sectional density of around 0.25 to 0.28 is also essential for reliable expansion and penetration.
Optimal Bullet Weight
The optimal bullet weight for the .280 Remington on mule deer is between 140 and 160 grains. This range allows for a balance between expansion and penetration. At 140 grains, you can expect deep penetration and a moderate expansion, while at 160 grains, you’ll experience a slightly larger expansion with a deeper penetration.
Real-World Performance
When choosing a bullet, reference real-world data and reviews from experienced hunters. For instance, the Nosler Partition and Barnes TSX bullets have proven themselves to be effective on mule deer, with both offering a flat-nose or boat-tail design and a moderate to high sectional density. These bullets have demonstrated reliable expansion and deep penetration in real-world hunting scenarios.
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