Shooting .450 Bushmaster 500 Yards ACCURATELY

Published on July 20, 2022
Duration: 19:59

This video demonstrates the process of extending the effective range of a .450 Bushmaster rifle to 500 yards. The instructor emphasizes the importance of checking zero at 100 yards before attempting longer shots and details the iterative process of adjusting scope turrets and compensating for wind. While acknowledging the .450 Bushmaster is not ideal for extreme long-range hunting, the video showcases its potential accuracy with proper technique and adjustments.

Quick Summary

Achieving accuracy with a .450 Bushmaster at 500 yards requires careful scope adjustment and wind compensation. After confirming a 100-yard zero, estimate significant holdover (up to 10-12 feet low) and adjust turrets. Even a 5 mph wind can cause substantial deviation, so focus on consistent vertical impacts and aim off-center for windage.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: 450 Bushmaster at 500 Yards
  2. 00:51Scope Reticle and Initial Holdover Estimates
  3. 01:56Ammunition Used: Hornady 250gr FTX
  4. 02:32First Shots and Initial Low Impacts
  5. 03:48Adjusting Aim Point: Getting Closer
  6. 04:11Compensating for Crosswind
  7. 05:14Troubleshooting: Scope Movement Concerns
  8. 06:35Checking Zero at 100 Yards
  9. 08:10Analyzing 100 Yard Group and Zero Confirmation
  10. 09:13Scope Zero Misunderstanding: 50 vs 100 Yards
  11. 09:56Making Major Scope Elevation Adjustment (100 Clicks)
  12. 10:38Post-Adjustment Impacts: Slightly High and Right
  13. 11:04Fine-Tuning Elevation (10 Clicks Down)
  14. 11:10Impact of Wind on 450 Bushmaster at 500 Yards
  15. 12:05Aiming for Consistent Hits with Wind
  16. 13:55Consistent Hits Achieved
  17. 14:08Explaining Shot Placement and Wind Variance
  18. 15:56Assessing Accuracy: Sub-MOA Potential
  19. 17:36Conclusion: Accuracy Achieved with Proper Aiming
  20. 17:49Re-Adjusting Scope for Hunting Zero
  21. 18:09Future Plans: 1000 Yard Shooting
  22. 18:59Energy and Hunting Viability at 500 Yards

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective range of a .450 Bushmaster rifle for hunting?

While the .450 Bushmaster retains significant energy (around 800 ft-lbs) at 500 yards, it's generally considered more ideal for hunting at closer ranges, typically 250 yards or less, due to bullet drop and wind susceptibility.

How do you adjust a scope for long-range shooting with a .450 Bushmaster?

To adjust for long-range shooting, first confirm your 100-yard zero. Then, estimate the required elevation adjustment for your target distance (e.g., 10-12 feet low for 500 yards) and make turret adjustments. Fine-tune based on impact and compensate for windage.

What factors affect accuracy when shooting a .450 Bushmaster at 500 yards?

Key factors include bullet drop, wind (even a 5 mph breeze significantly impacts the bullet), and the shooter's ability to accurately estimate holdover or adjust the scope. The aerodynamic profile of the .450 Bushmaster bullet also plays a role.

Is the .450 Bushmaster suitable for 500-yard hunting?

While technically possible due to retained energy, it's not ideal. The significant bullet drop and susceptibility to wind make consistent, ethical shots challenging. It's more practical for hunting ranges up to 250 yards, but with careful calculation, 500 yards is achievable for practice.

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