I have seen allot of discussion on good elk cartridges, but less discussion on energy. What is the minimum energy required to reliably kill elk? Does sectional density have an impact on this energy value?
These seem like good guidelines. I agree about minimum velocity for proper expansion which only the bullet manufacturer can supply. I understand that there is a complicated issue with many factors. Expansion is important, but a larger diameter bullet has to expand far less than a smaller one. For example, a 6mm bullet has to expand 40% to reach a .338 diameter.I agree with JE Custom about the 1000-1500 numbers. 1000 for deer and 1500 for elk. Another thing important is the bullets fps number for proper expansion to produce enough energy. I shoot Berger bullets and they recommend 1800fps minimum...
I agree with JE Custom about the 1000-1500 numbers. 1000 for deer and 1500 for elk. Another thing important is the bullets fps number for proper expansion to produce enough energy. I shoot Berger bullets and they recommend 1800fps minimum. Once I work up a load and prove the velocity I look at the ballistic numbers in QuickLoad and see where the load poops out either the 1500 ft lbs or the 1800 fps and that becomes the max for that load.
The real answer to how much energy is probably unknown as each animal is different as is each shot but in my thinking the bullets minimum velocity and 1000-1500 ft lbs of energy is a good minimum to follow.
How much energy to kill an elk? Hmmmmmmm
I'm thinkin it takes about all the energy a fella can muster. I've taken some long hikes in some very steep places. I've also strolled leisurely along some ancient logging roads. I've also snuggled on the ground for long, long periods of time, for days even.
However, somewhere along the line each hunt took all the energy I could muster.
Never did worry about the capability of the rifle or bullet. ...
My cousin just called me, he is hunting elk up in nw NM. He hit one at 219 yards with 180gr .30-06 right at dark yesterday, the bull fell down, then got back up and walked away, they searched today for 8 hours and could not find a blood trail. He is on the way home broken hearted.
My cousin just called me, he is hunting elk up in nw NM. He hit one at 219 yards with 180gr .30-06 right at dark yesterday, the bull fell down, then got back up and walked away, they searched today for 8 hours and could not find a blood trail. He is on the way home broken hearted.
Some people take for granted how hardy animals are. I personally would prefer more energy downrange than less for elk, but that being said... A well placed shot with a bullet for the job doesn't require a tremendous amount of energy to get the job done. I think the rule of thumb that 1500 is a good number to shoot for, but even then, sometimes the gods are not smiling down on you. I saw a buck hit hard in the vitals jump 6 feet off the ground and run over 100 yards into cover. When we opened him up, the bullet pieced his heart and one lung was almost non existent. We were both literally stunned. That deer shouldn't have been able to go 10 yards let alone 100.
You just never know. Sorry for your cousin. Happened just once to me... And I still remember it like it was yesterday. A good hunt should wash the bad taste of this one away somewhat... but I bet he doesn't forget it.