Quick Answer
For elk hunting in a 28 Nosler, the best grain bullets tend to be heavier, ranging from 150 to 180 grains. These weights provide sufficient expansion and penetration for large game, while minimizing drop and wind deflection at long ranges. The 160-grain weight is a sweet spot for many hunters.
Choosing the Right Bullet Weight
When selecting a bullet weight for your 28 Nosler, consider the maximum effective range you plan to hunt. At 500 yards, the difference between 150- and 180-grain bullets can be significant. For long-range elk hunting, the heavier bullet weights (170-180 grains) are often preferred, as they maintain a flatter trajectory and deliver more kinetic energy on impact.
Ballistic Performance Comparison
To illustrate the difference, consider the following ballistic data for a 28 Nosler chambered rifle firing a 160-grain bullet at 3000 fps. At 600 yards, the bullet will drop approximately 28 inches and have a wind deflection of 4.5 inches at a 10 mph wind. In comparison, a 170-grain bullet at the same velocity will drop 24 inches and have a wind deflection of 3.5 inches at 10 mph wind. While the difference is noticeable, the heavier bullet still performs well within the elk’s vital zone.
Practical Considerations
When hunting elk at long ranges, it’s essential to consider the bullet’s expansion and penetration characteristics. A bullet that expands too quickly may lose kinetic energy, while one that doesn’t expand enough may not provide a clean kill. For elk, look for bullets with a balanced expansion ratio (e.g., 0.85-0.90 G7 BC) and a penetration depth of at least 12-18 inches. This ensures a reliable kill shot, even at extreme ranges.
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