45 vs 50

time2hunt

Active Member

Messages

413

• Jul 6, 2018

• #1

So my question is why so many states require you to shoot 45 cal. for deer and 50 cal for elk and larger game ? The bullet diameter between the two is no much different especially if shooting a sabot 50 cal.
All and any input appreciated
Thanks
Brian

 

Blank

Long Time Member

Messages

6,526

• Jul 7, 2018

• #2

The problem is people shoot RBs and 45s don't have sufficient weight or penetration for larger game. There is absolutely no doubt that a 410 gr .451 conical will hammer any animal it hits, so some states have that caveat that allows it.

 

E

elktaker

Active Member

Messages

281

• Jul 7, 2018

• #3

A bullet wieght limit would be better.

I shoot a custom 344 gr .452 bullet at 2350 FPS with a high BC out of my custom.

 

M

Mallards_Only

Active Member

Messages

613

• Jul 8, 2018

• #4

Don't try to make sense out of it. It's a stupid law implemented by stupid F&G people. There's absolutely no evidence or justification for limiting calibers for one type of game over another. Both kill equally well and one could make the argument that the .45 is actually more deadly as it carries more energy with the same powder charge as the .50. Diameters and bullet weights of both far surpass standard rifle calibers. The difference is in the speed that they are pushed and the terminal performance of the bullet.

 

H

hntbambi

Active Member

Messages

798

• Jul 9, 2018

• #5

Yep, you got it. I'd love to build a new modern inline that is smokeless capable in .40 caliber but since I can't use it to hunt, I will not waste the money. There are some very impressive new bullets out for the .40 caliber now.