Hunting Rifles and Bullets; Open Carry Activists: Gun Talk Radio| 11.10.19 C

Published on November 12, 2019
Duration: 43:58

This discussion between Tom Gresham and Ron Spomer delves into the nuances of rifle cartridges and bullet selection for hunting. They emphasize how modern bullet technology, particularly controlled-expansion and all-copper designs, has made previously marginal calibers more effective. The conversation highlights the importance of ballistic coefficient (BC) for wind drift, the role of faster twist rates in stabilizing high-BC bullets, and the trade-offs between recoil and cartridge performance. Spomer, a seasoned gun writer, shares insights from decades of hunting experience, explaining how advancements in bullet construction have influenced effective caliber recommendations.

Quick Summary

Modern bullet technology, particularly controlled-expansion and all-copper designs, has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of various rifle calibers for hunting. These advanced bullets retain more weight and penetrate deeper, allowing for more reliable tissue destruction and improved accuracy, especially when paired with modern cartridges featuring faster twist rates for better stabilization of high-BC projectiles.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Crimson Trace
  2. 00:17Gun Geekery: Reloading & Ballistics
  3. 01:31Guest Introduction: Ron Spomer
  4. 02:39Ron Spomer's Writing & Publications
  5. 03:18Rifles & Cartridges for 300 Yards
  6. 04:30The Impact of Wind Drift
  7. 05:23Comparing Old vs. New Cartridges
  8. 06:03Perspective on New Cartridges
  9. 06:47Barrel Burnout in Competition
  10. 08:00Break: Bullet Selection Discussion
  11. 10:38Controlled Expansion Bullets
  12. 11:43Barnes All-Copper Bullets
  13. 13:00257 Weatherby Magnum & Bullet Choice
  14. 14:39Maximizing Tissue Destruction
  15. 15:15Wyoming Antelope Hunt Experience
  16. 16:18Caliber Reduction Due to Bullet Tech
  17. 17:50Future of Cartridges & Bullets
  18. 19:38257 Roberts vs. 25-06
  19. 20:15Re-barreling for Faster Twist Rates
  20. 21:02Optics Improvement Over Time
  21. 22:09Open Carry Activists Discussion
  22. 24:45Caller: Ruger American Predator 6.5 Creedmoor
  23. 27:11Caller: P.O. Ackley & 6.5mm Cartridges
  24. 30:30Break & P.O. Ackley Book
  25. 35:06Caller: Open Carry in Texas
  26. 37:35Caller: 22 WMR for Personal Defense
  27. 39:17Gunfight Avoidance Skills
  28. 40:07Caller: Virginia Gun Control Laws
  29. 43:38Closing Thoughts & Second Amendment Activism

Frequently Asked Questions

How does bullet ballistic coefficient (BC) affect hunting accuracy?

A higher ballistic coefficient (BC) means a bullet is more aerodynamic, retaining velocity better and resisting wind drift. While less critical for short-range hunting (under 300 yards), high BC bullets offer significant advantages in accuracy at longer ranges (500+ yards) and in windy conditions, reducing the impact of crosswinds on the shot.

What is the role of twist rate in rifle barrels for modern cartridges?

Modern cartridges designed for high ballistic coefficient (BC) bullets often require faster twist rates in their barrels (e.g., 1:8 or 1:7.5). This faster spin stabilizes longer, heavier bullets with aerodynamic noses, ensuring they fly true and maintain accuracy at extended distances.

How have controlled-expansion bullets changed hunting caliber effectiveness?

Advanced controlled-expansion bullets, like bonded or all-copper designs, retain more weight and penetrate deeper than traditional cup-and-core bullets. This improved performance allows smaller, lower-recoil calibers to be effective on larger game by ensuring vital organ destruction and adequate penetration.

Are older rifle cartridges still relevant with modern bullet technology?

Yes, older cartridges can be highly effective when paired with modern bullet designs. However, their ability to stabilize the longest, highest-BC bullets may be limited by slower twist rates in their original barrel designs. Re-barreling can address this limitation.

What is the advantage of all-copper bullets in hunting?

All-copper bullets, such as Barnes TTSX, retain nearly 100% of their weight upon impact, leading to superior penetration. This allows hunters to use lighter bullet weights for increased velocity and flatter trajectories while still achieving sufficient depth to reach vital organs.

More Hunting & Outdoors Videos You Might Like

More from Gun Talk Media

View all →