I've been loading the 85gr Sierra since 1985 in my .243 with amazing results. I've taken countless deer from all different angles and EVERY ONE has been a 1 shot kill. The only one that didn't drop in it's tracks was one that dressed out at 205 lbs, and it didn't go 10 yards. That particular deer was shot at 130-140yards straight on. This is a very effective bullet, bone or no bone, period.