Quick Answer
The terminal ballistics of .280 Remington show a high kinetic energy retention and effective penetration, making it suitable for hunting larger ungulates such as mule deer, but may not be as effective against larger or thicker-skinned animals. The .280 Remington's bullet expansion is moderate, and the weight retention is relatively high. This suggests a deep penetration, which is beneficial for hunting larger game.
Kinetic Energy Retention
The .280 Remington’s kinetic energy retention is a notable characteristic of its terminal ballistics. At 1,000 yards, the kinetic energy retention of a 140-grain .280 Remington bullet is approximately 60-70% of the original kinetic energy at the muzzle. This high retention is due to the relatively flat trajectory of the .280 Remington and its moderate velocity. For hunting mule deer, which are typically not as large as elk or moose, this kinetic energy retention is sufficient to ensure a quick and humane kill.
Penetration and Expansion
The .280 Remington’s penetration is moderate to deep, due to its high kinetic energy and relatively heavy bullet weight. A 140-grain .280 Remington bullet can penetrate up to 18-20 inches in gelatin or flesh, which is sufficient for hunting mule deer. However, the bullet expansion is moderate, with a typical expansion ratio of 1.2-1.5. This suggests that the bullet will not over-penetrate or cause unnecessary damage to the surrounding tissue.
Real-World Performance
In real-world hunting scenarios, the .280 Remington has proven to be effective for hunting mule deer. Many hunters have reported successful kills with the .280 Remington, particularly when using heavier bullet weights such as 140-150 grains. To ensure optimal performance, it is essential to use high-quality ammunition and follow proper hunting practices, such as shooting at close to medium ranges and aiming for vital organs.
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