Small game 223 load

[Yooper25]

Anybody load slow, maybe even subsonic 223 specifically for small game? My thought is it would be sweet to be able to shoot a grouse or ptarmigan while bear hunting without blowing it up too bad.

 

[coyotekilla]

Have you tried an fmj?

Edit* you said while bear hunting. Better off
A.) Not hunting bear with 223.
B.) Not carrying a non killing bear load while looking for said bear

 

[Q_Sertorius]

Anybody load slow, maybe even subsonic 223 specifically for small game? My thought is it would be sweet to be able to shoot a grouse or ptarmigan while bear hunting without blowing it up too bad.

I’ve thought about it before, but I always come back to “just aim for the head or neck.”

I had a good discussion with my dad about the supposed virtues of a .22 Hornet and 16 gauge combination gun for bird hunting. He eventually talked me out of it.

 

[waspocrew]

I’d just carry a 22 lr pistol with a can. Crazy quiet.