Sierra MatchKings for hunting - like TMK?

[RCB]

It's a common opinion here that TMK bullets perform well on game. I realize the use of match bullets on game is an on-going debate, but, among those who subscribe to that practice, I'm wondering what y'all think of using the non-tipped Sierra MatchKing. I only ask because I can easily get ammo with that bullet and I already know my rifle shoots it well in 308.

Feel free to link to me to an existing thread. I just wasn't able to find it.

(And, as a side note, am I the only person who thinks that using a plastic tip "to initiate expansion" makes no sense?)

 

[Formidilosus]

I know it's a common opinion here that TMK bullets perform well on game. I realize the use of match bullets on game is an on-going debate, but, among those who subscribe to that practice, I'm wondering what y'all think of using the non-tipped Sierra MatchKing. I only ask because I can easily get ammo with that bullet and I already know my rifle tends to shoot it well in 308.

Feel free to link to me to an existing thread. I just wasn't able to find it.

SMK’s are variable in tissue unless you open the tips up.

(And, as a side note, am I the only person who thinks that using a plastic tip "to initiate expansion" makes no sense?)

Tips do not initiate expansion. What they do squeeze out and offer a large opening under the tip that initiates expansion.

 

[wind gypsy]

Lots of info on here. Cliff notes in general is that they are inconsistent terminally with occasionally slow or failure to disrupt.

In regards to tips initiating expansion - pull the tip out and what do you have? You have a much wider meplat than a SMK with a hollow point in the middle. My understanding is that the fact that the jacketed portion of the bullet never gets to as small a diameter as typical OTM/BTHP match bullets is a big factor in terminal behavior.

 

[RCB]

Thanks guys. I'll trust y'all on this and use a different bullet.

And regarding plastic points - I think that makes sense. If I understand correctly, the point is to have a large opening that will expand easily, but aerodynamics would be poor if there was just a big opening up front. Hence, make a big opening and fill it with plastic, which will basically become irrelevant on impact.

 

[Formidilosus]

Thanks guys. I'll trust y'all on this and use a different bullet.

And regarding plastic points - I think that makes sense. If I understand correctly, the point is to have a large opening that will expand easily, but aerodynamics would be poor if there was just a big opening up front. Hence, make a big opening and fill it with plastic, which will basically become irrelevant on impact.

That’s the gist.

 

[North of 60]

Easy to do with a drill bit and from what i've seen opening the HP on a Sierra MK works well in a limited sample size.