The Truth about Big-Game Bullet Failure

Published on April 30, 2023
Duration: 7:20

This video debunks the common notion of 'bullet failure' in big game hunting, explaining that modern ammunition is highly reliable. It emphasizes that perceived failures are often due to factors like insufficient velocity at range, poor shot placement, or hitting bone, rather than inherent bullet defects. The content advises hunters to understand their ammunition's performance envelope and focus on shot discipline and rifle zeroing.

Quick Summary

Modern big game bullets rarely fail. Perceived failures are often due to insufficient velocity at range, poor shot placement, or hitting bone, not inherent bullet defects. Manufacturers have improved designs since 1995 for better deformation and penetration, making bullet reliability high.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Bullet Failure
  2. 00:33Historical Context of Bullet Failure
  3. 01:37The Impact of Time on Bullet Reliability
  4. 01:54Modern Bullet Design and Testing
  5. 02:13Common Causes of Bullet Failure
  6. 02:26How Bullets Perform Today
  7. 02:45Jacket and Core Separation Explained
  8. 03:07Factors Increasing Bullet Separation
  9. 03:33Examples of Bullet Performance
  10. 03:50Modern Bullets Do Their Job
  11. 04:11Blown Hunt vs. Bullet Failure
  12. 04:16What a Bullet Needs for Success
  13. 04:30Real Causes of a Blown Hunt
  14. 04:50The Role of Range and Velocity
  15. 05:15Why It's Not Always Bullet Failure
  16. 05:37Avoiding Deformation Threshold Issues
  17. 05:54Ammunition Testing and Reliability
  18. 06:03When Bullets Don't Behave as Expected
  19. 06:14Staying with Proven Ammunition
  20. 06:21Human Error in Hunting
  21. 06:42Improving Your Hunting Process
  22. 06:46Training and Rifle Sighting
  23. 06:52Learning Shot Placement
  24. 06:58Bullet Velocity Parameters
  25. 07:06Don't Blame the Bullet
  26. 07:13Skill and Preparedness

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main reasons for perceived bullet failure in big game hunting?

Perceived bullet failures are rarely due to the bullet itself. Common causes include the bullet impacting below its necessary velocity threshold for deformation (often due to long range), poor shot placement, or hitting bone, rather than the bullet failing to perform its intended function.

How has bullet technology improved to reduce failures?

Since 1995, bullet manufacturers have significantly improved designs and testing. Modern bullets are engineered to deform widely for increased tissue damage while retaining weight for deep penetration, making them much more reliable for big game hunting.

What is the most common type of bullet 'failure' observed?

The most common observed 'failure' is jacket and core separation in non-bonded bullets. However, this typically happens late in the bullet's path, after it has already performed its critical work of tissue damage and penetration.

What should hunters focus on instead of blaming bullet failure?

Hunters should focus on understanding their ammunition's performance envelope, particularly its velocity requirements for deformation at various ranges. Proper rifle sighting, practicing shot placement on vital zones, and accurate range estimation are crucial for success.

More Hunting & Outdoors Videos You Might Like

More from BIG MAN with GUN

View all →