What Factors Influence Penetration on Quartering Shots?

Angle of Shot

When taking a quartering shot, the angle at which the bullet enters the animal’s body plays a significant role in penetration. A shot taken at a 20-degree angle, for example, will tend to exit the body more quickly than a shot taken at a 45-degree angle. This is because the bullet’s path is more shallow, resulting in less tissue to penetrate and less kinetic energy to dissipate.

Distance from Target

The distance from the target also affects penetration, particularly when using expansion-type bullets. Shots taken at close range (less than 100 yards) tend to result in deeper penetration due to the reduced expansion of the bullet. At longer ranges (200-300 yards), expansion is greater, resulting in shallower penetration. To achieve optimal penetration at longer ranges, a slower-expanding bullet or one with a larger diameter may be more effective.

Ammunition Selection

The type of ammunition used can also significantly impact penetration on quartering shots. Bullets with a higher sectional density (such as the 150-grain .30-06) tend to penetrate deeper than those with a lower sectional density (such as the 140-grain .30-06). Additionally, bullets with a harder outer coating and a softer inner core tend to expand more quickly, resulting in shallower penetration. In contrast, bullets with a harder inner core and a softer outer coating tend to retain their kinetic energy and maintain deeper penetration.