Long Range Pursuit | S4 E18 400 Class Bull Elk with a Muzzleloader

Published on May 29, 2018
Duration: 20:07

This video details the critical importance of understanding muzzleloader bullet performance and determining ethical shooting ranges. Instructor Mike Davidson emphasizes that just because a muzzleloader can hit a target at extreme distances (like 850 yards) doesn't mean the bullet will perform effectively or ethically. He explains how to use manufacturer data and ballistics calculators to find a bullet's optimal velocity window for expansion, thereby establishing a practical maximum range for humane kills. The guide highlights a specific 325-grain muzzleloader bullet with an aluminum tip, noting its effective expansion down to 1300-1400 ft/s, which translates to a practical range limit of around 550 yards under certain conditions.

Quick Summary

Ethical long-range muzzleloader hunting requires understanding bullet performance. Just because you can hit a target at extreme distances doesn't mean the bullet will expand effectively. You must know the bullet's minimum expansion velocity and ensure it maintains that speed at your intended range for a humane kill. Use ballistics calculators to determine this effective range.

Chapters

  1. 00:16Setting the Scene: Arizona Muzzleloader Hunt
  2. 01:04The Thrill of the Hunt
  3. 05:07Extreme Range vs. Ethical Range
  4. 05:31Bullet Performance and Responsibility
  5. 06:03Understanding Bullet Design
  6. 06:37Bullet Velocity and Expansion
  7. 07:16Using Drop Charts for Range Calculation
  8. 08:08Comparing Muzzleloader and Rifle Ballistics
  9. 09:02Hunter's Guide to Bullet Research
  10. 10:08Continuing the Hunt: New Ridge
  11. 11:12Hunt Update: Challenges and Strategy
  12. 12:17Positioning for the Shot
  13. 13:46The Shot: 410 Yards
  14. 14:21Success! Bull Elk Down
  15. 14:59Field Dressing and Appreciation
  16. 15:30Examining the Bull
  17. 16:13Hunt Recap and Strategy
  18. 17:18Gratitude for Gear and Guides
  19. 18:51The Pack Out
  20. 19:14Sponsors and Apparel

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the key to ethical long-range muzzleloader hunting?

Ethical long-range muzzleloader hunting hinges on understanding your bullet's performance. Just because you can hit a target at extreme distances doesn't mean the bullet will expand effectively. You must know the bullet's minimum expansion velocity and ensure it maintains that speed at your intended range for a humane kill.

How can I determine the maximum effective range for my muzzleloader bullet?

To determine your muzzleloader bullet's maximum effective range, consult manufacturer data for its optimal velocity window. Use online ballistics calculators with your bullet's BC, muzzle velocity, and environmental data to generate a drop chart. This chart shows projectile speed at different yardages, helping you identify the range where the bullet still expands reliably.

What is the recommended range for a 325-grain muzzleloader bullet with an aluminum tip?

For the specific 325-grain muzzleloader bullet with an aluminum tip discussed, its effective expansion is noted down to 1300-1400 ft/s. Based on this, the practical maximum effective range is estimated to be around 550 yards under typical environmental conditions, ensuring humane performance.

Why is it important to know a bullet's velocity at range?

Knowing a bullet's velocity at range is crucial for ethical hunting because it dictates whether the bullet will expand upon impact. Most bullets require a minimum velocity to deform and create a lethal wound channel. Shooting beyond this velocity threshold can result in a non-lethal hit and a wounded animal.

Related News

All News →

More Hunting & Outdoors Videos You Might Like

More from Gunwerks

View all →