sorry bout round balls just do not complete in energy like a conical or sabot. I've never heard of anyone complaining about their round ball fragmenting on an animal LOL.

Balls just straight up kill by cutting what ever is in their path, plus bone fragments ( with any bullet actually)

If we went by ft lbs energy and whats needed, the eastern forests would still be full of elk from 2-300 years ago.

I know, "you" (not directed at anyone on the forum - just in general) lost animals with balls,You've lost 'em with powerbelts, you've lost'em with xtp's, or you just didn't get a blood trail.... Uh huh...

As for a young shooter and sidelock, You can't go wrong with a 50 or 54 and 60-70gr of powder behind that ball.