Do Heavier Bullets Deliver? | Gun Talk Radio

Published on April 3, 2023
Duration: 12:23

This segment from Gun Talk Radio features John Barsness discussing the effectiveness of heavier, slower bullets in rifle cartridges like the 7x57mm Mauser and 7mm-08 Remington. He argues against the trend of prioritizing high velocity, demonstrating how heavier bullets retain more energy at longer ranges and perform better on game, even with older, less complex designs. The discussion highlights the historical success of cartridges like the 7x57mm for various big game animals.

Quick Summary

Heavier bullets, even at slower velocities, often outperform lighter, faster bullets for hunting due to superior energy retention and penetration at range. John Barsness highlights the effectiveness of cartridges like the 7x57mm Mauser with heavier projectiles for various big game, challenging the modern trend of prioritizing extreme speed.

Chapters

  1. 00:07Introduction to Gun Talk Radio Segment
  2. 00:18Guest Introduction: John Barsness
  3. 00:41Dakota Model 10 Rifle Discussion
  4. 01:07Appeal of Single Shot Rifles
  5. 01:34Ruger No. 1 Popularity
  6. 01:41Dakota Model 10 Design Comparison
  7. 02:057x57mm Mauser Cartridge
  8. 02:237mm-08 Remington Cartridge
  9. 02:36Handloading 7x57mm Mauser
  10. 03:02Hunting Success with 7x57mm Mauser
  11. 03:36Effectiveness on Large Game
  12. 03:48Going Against the Grain: Bullet Choice
  13. 04:03Trend of Light, Fast Bullets
  14. 04:16Advantages of Heavier, Longer Bullets
  15. 04:27Historical Effectiveness of 7x57mm
  16. 04:45Evolution of Bullet Technology
  17. 05:02Performance of 160-grain Sierra Game King
  18. 05:22John Barsness's Books
  19. 05:41Ballistics Comparison: 120gr vs. 162gr
  20. 06:04Energy Difference at 500 Yards
  21. 06:24Long-Range Effectiveness
  22. 06:49Bullet Expansion Challenges
  23. 07:23Plastic Tip Bullet Expansion
  24. 07:33Bullet Drop Comparison
  25. 07:41Modern Rangefinding and Scopes
  26. 08:18Rifle Collection and New Acquisitions
  27. 08:38Griffin & Howe 1903 Springfield Custom Rifle
  28. 09:02Springfield Armory History
  29. 09:13Ernest Hemingway's Rifle Connection
  30. 09:18Shooting Performance of Custom Springfield
  31. 10:01Overwatch Arms Rifle
  32. 10:15Tom McIntyre's Rifle Acquisition
  33. 10:266.5x284mm Cartridge
  34. 10:48Classic Centerfire Rifles
  35. 10:5150-70 Springfield Trapdoor
  36. 11:04Hunting Buffalo
  37. 11:20John Barsness's Website: Rifles and Recipes
  38. 11:41Rifle Looney News Magazine
  39. 11:53Closing Remarks

Frequently Asked Questions

Do heavier bullets perform better than lighter, faster bullets for hunting?

Yes, according to John Barsness, heavier bullets often perform better for hunting. They tend to retain more energy at longer ranges and penetrate more effectively, even if they start at a slower muzzle velocity. This contrasts with the trend of prioritizing high velocity with lighter bullets.

Is the 7x57mm Mauser cartridge still effective for hunting large game?

Absolutely. John Barsness has successfully hunted 17 species of big game with the 7x57mm Mauser, including bull elk and large moose. He argues that its moderate velocity with heavier bullets allows for excellent penetration and performance, debunking the idea that only magnums are suitable for tough game.

How do heavier bullets like the 162-grain Hornady ELDX compare to lighter bullets like the 120-grain Barnes?

While the 120-grain Barnes might have a higher muzzle velocity, the 162-grain Hornady ELDX, despite starting slower, has significantly more energy at 500 yards. This is attributed to its superior ballistic coefficient and weight retention, making it a more effective choice for longer-range hunting scenarios.

What is the advantage of using heavier bullets in cartridges like the 7mm-08 or 7x57mm?

Heavier bullets in these cartridges offer better momentum and ballistic performance at range. They are less susceptible to wind drift and retain more energy, ensuring better penetration and terminal ballistics on game animals. This approach prioritizes sustained effectiveness over sheer initial speed.

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