Thread: A question for the doubters

Originally Posted by Hermitage

Hunter Nick I'll answer your question directly:
I don't believe there is any objective measure that can prove to me that the .223 (even with heavy for calibre 73-88gr fast twist bullets) is a legitimate deer hunting cartridge when COMPARED to larger calibres.
This is due to basic physics...the larger calibres outperform the .223 ballistically, penetrating deeper and transferring more energy. They are just superior in range, power, and penetration.
As you implied caliber debate is never ending... they are always a bit silly, and people rarely prove one popular cartridge is better than another. Different rounds have different purposes, and there is plenty of room at the table for everyone to sit.

How many deer have you shot with a .223 with heavy bullets? How far did they penetrate?

Originally Posted by gimp

How many deer have you shot with a .223 with heavy bullets? How far did they penetrate?

Bullet construction, sectional density, kinetic energy and frontal surface area all play a role. In the case of .223, the frontal surface area is relatively low and the KE is disproportionately high.
So yes it's possible that a specific .223 cartridge will have more penetration than a specific .308...Sure, I could buy that.
If you told me that the 5.56 EPR (M855A1 Enhanced Performance Round) penetrated better than a 7.62 hollowpoint or even 7.62 ball, I’d believe you. I’d probably still look for the data but at face value that would sound very plausible.