.44 Magnum Rifle Ballistics

[tcpip95]

I have a question regarding the minimum terminal ballistics for the .44 magnum for large game such as elk or moose. For example, shooting a Buffalo Bore Dangerous Game mono bullet (265gr) from a lever gun with a 20" barrel. Assuming good shot placement, what would be the minimum terminal velocity to ensure a clean kill? Per the manufacturer, here are the ballistics for this round:

100 yards: 1,356 fps
150 yards: 1,220 fps
175 yards: 1,163 fps
200 yards: 1,114 fps
225 yards: 1,072 fps
250 yards: 1,037 fps
275 yards: 1,006 fps

 

[Rich M]

The website lists a roughly 1700 fps muzzle velocity for 18 inch barrel with that bullet.

When i was growing up lotsa guys used 44 mag carbines (semis) and would shoot critters out to 150 yards.

Most guys say you need 1,000#+ of energy to kill a deer, might be 1,200 for elk and moose.

Anyway, using the data for buffalo bore, you are at 100-125 with 1700 fps and 125-150 with 1800 fps. The writeup says they use fast burning powder w this load to maximize handgun use.

They offer a 340 gr cast +p bullet that would be better if your gun can handle it. Thats a 200 yd bullet using 1000# of energy. Its the weight that makes it better.

The thing about these mono and cast bullets is that they punch a hole thru without as much damage as an expanding bullet. Expect a longer track.

Good luck!

 

[Jim1187]

Expansion won't be happening with that particular load. A well placed shot won't do anything good for the health of a moose or elk but expect it to kill slow.
I have been personally involved in a couple .44 magnum carbine moose kills and with a quality expanding bullet, I believe the 265 interlock was used, it behaved a lot like the .444 just with 100 yards of velocity loss. 125ish yards would be my comfort limit but closer would be much better. Of currently available bullets I'd probably pick an A-frame.

 

[tcpip95]

Expansion won't be happening with that particular load. A well placed shot won't do anything good for the health of a moose or elk but expect it to kill slow.
I have been personally involved in a couple .44 magnum carbine moose kills and with a quality expanding bullet, I believe the 265 interlock was used, it behaved a lot like the .444 just with 100 yards of velocity loss. 125ish yards would be my comfort limit but closer would be much better. Of currently available bullets I'd probably pick an A-frame.

Jim, thanks for that insight.