Will a .35 Remington bring down an elk with proper shot placement?

Shot Placement and Energy Requirements

When hunting with a .35 Remington, it’s crucial to place the shot in a vital area to ensure a quick and humane kill. The elk’s vital zone includes the heart, lungs, and major blood vessels. To achieve this, the bullet must deliver sufficient kinetic energy to penetrate deep into the elk’s body. A minimum of 1,200 ft-lbs of kinetic energy is recommended for hunting medium to large-sized game like elk. With a .35 Remington, using a 200-grain bullet at 2,300 ft/s can achieve this energy level, making it suitable for elk hunting.

Lever Action Rifle Considerations

Lever action rifles, like those chambered in .35 Remington, offer a reliable and fast shooting platform for hunting. However, their short barrel length (typically 20 inches) and lack of a magazine can affect the rifle’s performance. To compensate, hunters can use a bullet with a flat trajectory, such as the Hornady 200-grain InterLock SP, which maintains its velocity and accuracy at longer ranges. Additionally, a good shooting position and a steady hand are essential for accurate shooting with a lever action rifle.

Ballistic Considerations and Load Selection

When hunting with a .35 Remington, it’s essential to select the right load for the task. A load with a heavier bullet (200-220 grains) and a slower twist rate (1:14 or 1:16 inches) can provide the necessary kinetic energy and accuracy for elk hunting. However, a faster twist rate (1:9 or 1:10 inches) is recommended for lighter bullets (150-180 grains) to minimize bullet deformation and maintain accuracy. Hunters should consult the manufacturer’s recommendations and test different loads to find the best combination for their rifle and hunting style.