Should I worry about over-penetration with 7mm-08 Remington?

Ballistics and Terminal Performance

The 7mm-08 Remington is a popular cartridge for whitetail hunting due to its flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and effective terminal performance. When loaded with a 140-grain bullet, the cartridge’s kinetic energy at 100 yards is around 1,300 ft-lbs, which is sufficient to quickly and humanely harvest whitetail deer. The bullet’s expansion and penetration are also well-suited for the cartridge’s intended use, with many bullets exhibiting expansion ratios of 1.5-2.0 and penetration depths of 12-18 inches.

Hunting Considerations

For whitetail hunting, it’s essential to consider the type of terrain and potential obstacles that could affect bullet performance. In dense woods or brushy areas, a bullet may be more likely to ricochet or penetrate a tree before hitting the animal. However, in open fields or clearings, the risk of over-penetration is minimal. Hunters should also consider the bullet’s construction and design, as some are more prone to over-penetration than others.

Safety Precautions

While over-penetration is not a significant concern with the 7mm-08 Remington, hunters should still take necessary safety precautions to prevent accidental damage to property or injury to others. This includes ensuring a clear shooting lane, checking for obstacles or overhanging branches, and using a suitable backstop or shooting range. It’s also essential to follow local regulations and safety guidelines when hunting with a firearm.