Quick Answer
For elk hunting, the 7mm Remington Magnum and the .300 Winchester Magnum are the top performing calibers, with the 7mm Remington Magnum offering more kinetic energy and a flatter trajectory.
Choosing the Right Bullet
When hand loading for elk hunting, it’s essential to choose a bullet that can deliver the necessary kinetic energy and penetration. A bullet with a sectional density of 0.25 or higher is recommended, as it can penetrate deep into elk tissue. For example, the 180-grain Nosler Partition bullet has a sectional density of 0.273 and is an excellent choice for elk hunting.
Loading for Deep Penetration
To achieve deep penetration, it’s crucial to load your rifle with the correct powder charge. For the 7mm Remington Magnum, a 90-95 grain powder charge will produce a muzzle velocity of 2,900-3,000 feet per second, which is necessary for deep penetration. This can be achieved with a load consisting of 95 grains of Hodgdon H4831 powder, a 180-grain Nosler Partition bullet, and a case capacity of 77 grains of water.
Considerations for Hand Loading
When hand loading for elk hunting, it’s essential to consider the rifle’s barrel length and the powder charge. A longer barrel can handle a heavier powder charge, resulting in more kinetic energy. Additionally, a rifle with a shorter barrel may require a lighter powder charge to avoid over-pressure. For example, a .300 Winchester Magnum rifle with a 24-inch barrel can handle a 105-110 grain powder charge, while a rifle with a 20-inch barrel may require a 95-100 grain powder charge.
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