Quick Answer
The .360 Buckhammer cartridge was designed by Ken Waters, a renowned firearms designer, in 1993. It is a commercial variant of the .358 Winchester cartridge, with a slightly shorter case length. The .360 Buckhammer is a popular choice for hunting larger game, including deer.
Origins and Design
The .360 Buckhammer was created by modifying the .358 Winchester case to fit a slightly shorter length, 2.600 inches, compared to the .358 Winchester’s 2.800 inches. This allows the .360 Buckhammer to chamber in rifles designed for the .358 Winchester. The cartridge has a 2.55 inch neck length and a 1:10 inch twist rate, making it suitable for hunting larger game.
Ballistics and Performance
The .360 Buckhammer is available in a range of bullet weights, from 150 to 250 grains. For deer hunting, a 180-200 grain bullet is a popular choice. The cartridge’s muzzle energy ranges from 2,100 to 2,600 ft-lbs, depending on the load and bullet weight. This makes it an effective choice for hunting larger deer, such as those found in the Appalachian region. Effective deer hunting ranges for the .360 Buckhammer are typically between 100-200 yards.
Hunting Applications
The .360 Buckhammer is a versatile cartridge suitable for hunting deer in a variety of terrain and conditions. Its flat trajectory and moderate recoil make it an attractive choice for hunters who want a cartridge that can handle larger game without excessive kick. In the right rifle and with the right load, the .360 Buckhammer can deliver a one-shot kill on larger deer, making it a popular choice among experienced hunters.
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