New to Rapidly Exspanding Bullets

[savage300]

Hello All:

I am new to these forums as far as partisipating goes, but have really enjoyed the fine reading. Their seems to be a vast amount of knowledge here. I shoot a Savage 300 ultra mag that has been customized. It shots just under 1/2" @ 100 yds. with several loads. I am interested in some info on the 208 gr. amax for shots past 400 yds. on elk sized animals. I was also wondering how they compare to the 210gr. berger. Are they both vld designs. I have hunted for over 30 years but mainly with controlled exspanding bullets. I am now looking for a reliable bullet for long range impacts on game. Their is nothing more enjoyable than a rifle that hits what you aim at and nothing more frustrating than one that does not. Thanks to every one in advance for any help you can give.

 

[405win]

Hi Savage300 and welcome.
I have not shot the A-max but I do know that hornady does not recommend them for big game hunting. I have shot and hunted with the berger VLD's but in 25 cal. When loaded right, they shoot awesome. It took me awhile to develop a really accurate load but when I found it, boy, it was worth the time.
1/4 moa at 200 yards is pretty normal.
For close range they are gernades. I think they are best at 300 yards and beyond but thats jmo.
I took and elk at 468 yards this year with a 115gr berger and it performed very well with good penetration and tissue damage. I recovered the bullet under the hide on the off side and weighted 79.8 grains.
I hope this helps.

 

[savage300]

Thanks 405 It sure is a different world in long range hunting. I just was'nt sure if some of the premium bullets would open at ranges out to 1000 yds. If nothing else the amaxs will give me some good practise. Thanks again.

 

[savage300]

Do I need to change the seating stem in my RCBS dies to load VLD'S or AMAX'S. Please help. Thanks.

 

[RockyMtnMT]

Do I need to change the seating stem in my RCBS dies to load VLD'S or AMAX'S. Please help. Thanks.

It would vary with every different bullet.

I would personally stick with a controlled expansion bullet, or a good mono metal.

Steve

 

[405win]

Hi Sav300, most bullet makers will list the minimum velocity that their bullets will reliable expand at. Its usually in the 1800-1900 fps range. Bullet seating depth with very from bullet to bullet as RockyMTNMT stated but also from gun to gun. My OAL most likely won't work for you even it we had save make and model rifles.
There are some challenges to overcome in long range shooting and there are much more knowledgeable people than I here, that might help you further. Just post a question under a different forum topic. Good luck and have fun.