Quick Answer
The 6x47 Lapua is a suitable cartridge for hunting small mammals, but its use requires consideration of the bullet's expansion characteristics and potential for over-penetration.
Ballistic Characteristics
The 6x47 Lapua is a versatile cartridge with a relatively flat trajectory and moderate kinetic energy. Its 105-grain bullets typically travel at 2,800-3,000 feet per second (fps) and deliver around 1,400-1,500 foot-pounds of energy at 100 yards. However, the bullets may not always expand as desired in small mammals, which can lead to over-penetration or failed kills.
Hunting Small Mammals
When hunting small mammals like rabbits or hares, it’s crucial to aim for the vitals and use a bullet with a suitable expansion profile. The 6x47 Lapua’s 105-grain bullets may not always expand as desired in these small targets, so it’s essential to use a bullet with a high expansion ratio and a large diameter expansion. For example, the 105-grain Scenar-L bullet has a relatively low expansion ratio and may not be ideal for small mammals.
Best Practices
If you decide to use the 6x47 Lapua for hunting small mammals, it’s essential to use a scoped rifle with a magnification of at least 4x and a parallax-free reticle. This will help you achieve a clear shot and accurately place the bullet in the vitals. Furthermore, use a high-quality scope with a built-in ballistic calculator or consult a ballistic table to ensure you’re accounting for wind deflection, altitude, and other environmental factors that can affect bullet trajectory.
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