Hornady Eld-m's...what is the minimum terminal velocity threshold?

[peaceful_ruler]

I know the ELD-M wasn't designed to be a hunting bullet but for those of you who have experience taking game specifically with the .284 180's what has been your experience on the low velocity threshold for these to reliably expand on big game?

 

[jonnyviceroy]

1800 fps is the commonly referred to threshold I hear and see people post. I’ve personally used the 147 eldm with great results down to 1925 fps on an elk.

 

[WoolyBugger]

I’ve always heard the same 1800 fps figure. Haven't gone under 2000 fps but have had the 6.5 140gr down to 2100 with zero problems with penetration depth or wound channel.

 

[packgoatguy]

I haven't used a .284 cal in long while, but I use the 80eldx, 108eldm, 109eldm, 140eldm, and 147eldm regularly. My personal rule is a minimum of 2000fps... no real reason why... it just makes me feel better than an 1800fps minimum. I build my rifles and loads with this minimum velocity in mind. Longest shot to date was my son's bull this fall... 640 yards with my 18" 6.5prc, 140eld, 2875fps MV and 2158fps at impact. Broke front shoulder and the bull dropped and slid DRT.

 

[ID-Muley]

I haven't used a .284 cal in long while, but I use the 80eldx, 108eldm, 109eldm, 140eldm, and 147eldm regularly. My personal rule is a minimum of 2000fps... no real reason why... it just makes me feel better than an 1800fps minimum. I build my rifles and loads with this minimum velocity in mind. Longest shot to date was my son's bull this fall... 640 yards with my 18" 6.5prc, 140eld, 2875fps MV and 2158fps at impact. Broke front shoulder and the bull dropped and slid DRT.

What powder? In a short action?

 

[packgoatguy]

What powder? In a short action?

N565, tikka action, bartlein barrel

 

[il_cop]

We always talk about minimums...is there a maximum?

 

[CHGray]

We always talk about minimums...is there a maximum?

I’ve wondered this myself. Two members of our club have 6.5 PRCs. At typical ranges for whitetail in south central AL they’ve had several rounds pencil thru. They don’t seem like they open, do little damage, and result in poor blood trails and tough tracking. Not the DRT I often read about on here.

 

[River Reaper]

The .284 180 ELDM likely hits 1800fps at over 1000 yards out of most cartridges it was designed for. Going to be hard pressed to find someone who has taken them below 2000fps, let alone 1800fps.

For hunting distances, expansion threshold is a non-issue for that bullet out of most cartridges.