Accuracy vs. Bullet Performance on Elk

[C.Smith]

One more questions, would the 180 BT be a broadside only bullet or can I count on shooting it at most any angle other than up the rear end? If I wanted a bullet to do that would I be better with the 180 grain PT?

Corey

 

[Antelope_Sniper]

If you need to shoot the rear-end, just aim a little high, and hit the spine. It will anchor them to the ground everytime, and sometimes the shot to the central nervous system is enough for them to check out.

 

[remingtonman_25_06]

I would say at your 06 velocities, you would be ok with a quartering shot with the 180g NBT easily. Its obviously not a bone crushing penetrate to the next county bullet, but it will penetrate enough to get the job done on a quartering shot.

I lost count how many elk we've taken with the 180g nbt from 300 win mags and I can guaruntee you about half were not the classic broadside shot you always hope for, however they've still always got the job done.

I wouldn't and dont recomend taking a raking or ass shot on elk. Thats just asking for trouble IMO. I dont care what gun or bullet your using. If you insist, use a bullet that holds 90%+ weight retention, the PT doesn't come close to giving you 90% so I would still say NO on the PT for ass shots.

 

[C.Smith]

I do not like the idea of taking a rump shot either. As fast as elk come in Washington I will have to take what I can get and I just want to make sure I use a good bullet. But I'm also not afraid to pass on a less than good shot, like I did last year.

Corey

 

[Greg Nolan]

I guess the question is , how will the 180s shoot. If you have to pull bullets and start over with the 180 you might try the 165 A/Bs with a slightly longer or shorter OAL and see if the group tightens up. It won't cost anything but time. That being said a 180 gr BT, A/B or PT would be a better elk bullet than a 165. I wouldn't be afraid of the 165 A/B since you already have them but would be cautions of the BT for a shoulder shot. I'm sure you'll work it out to your satisfaction. Best of luck
Greg