Best Cartridges For Each Big Game Animal: The Pros Debate

Published on February 1, 2025
Duration: 16:45

This panel of hunting experts discusses optimal cartridges for various big game animals, emphasizing practical field experience over pure ballistics. They recommend specific calibers like 7 PRC and .300 Win Mag for elk and larger game, while suggesting lighter options like 6.5 Creedmoor for whitetail and hogs. The discussion highlights the importance of matching cartridge performance to the specific animal and hunting scenario, considering factors like range, recoil, and desired terminal effect.

Quick Summary

Experts recommend .300 Win Mag, .300 PRC, and 7 PRC for Elk. For short-range Whitetail, .450 Bushmaster, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .30-30 are suggested. Dangerous game like Grizzly Bears require heavy hitters such as .338 Win Mag or .300 PRC.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Expert Panel
  2. 00:30Best Cartridges for Elk
  3. 01:06Whitetail Deer (Short Range) Calibers
  4. 01:47Western Mule Deer Cartridge Choices
  5. 02:35Varmints and Coyotes: Top Picks
  6. 03:24Black Bear Hunting Calibers
  7. 05:15Hog Hunting Ammunition
  8. 06:05Caribou and Antelope Cartridges
  9. 08:10Aoudad & Africa Plains Game
  10. 09:47Grizzly Bear & Moose Calibers
  11. 12:10Bison & 'One Gun' Choice

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best cartridges for hunting Elk?

Experts recommend cartridges like the .300 Win Mag, .300 PRC, and 7 PRC for Elk. Even the 6.5 PRC has proven effective for achieving quick, humane kills on this large game.

Which rifle calibers are suitable for Whitetail Deer at close range?

For Whitetail deer within 150 yards, fun and versatile options include the .450 Bushmaster, 6.5 Creedmoor, and the classic .30-30 Lever action rifle.

What cartridges do experts suggest for dangerous game like Grizzly Bears and Moose?

For formidable game such as Grizzly Bears and Moose, heavy-hitting cartridges are essential. Recommended calibers include the .338 Win Mag, .405 Winchester, and .300 PRC for their significant bone-breaking power.

If you could only choose one rifle cartridge for all big game, what would it be?

If limited to a single cartridge for diverse big game hunting, the panel suggests the versatile .30-06 Springfield, the powerful 7mm Rem Mag, or the reliable .300 Win Mag.

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