30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I would like opinions on the bullet weights for my 30-06 for an elk load. I am looking at 180 and 165. I can not find much in the 180 grn locally. I have found a couple like the 165 failsafe. Thanks for any input!!

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

If the 165 failsafes will shoot good for you then by all means shoot them. They will penetrate better than any lead 180 grain bullet.

However, their design does not create as large a mushroom as a lead core bullet but on the flip side they will bust through bone and keep on going and bust the bone on the other side.

Another thing you can do is have a store order you a couple boxexs each of a few different bullet types.

Or you can go to this site and order 5 boxes and shipping is free. However you must be 21 years old to order ammo through the mail.
http://www.cpcartridge.com/index.htm

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I'm told that the .06 is rifled for best flight with a 165 grain. Suppose it may vary from rifle to rifle in real life. I've only used 165 grains and have killed several elk with it.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

165's will do the job your asking it to. Have fun.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I would go with a 180 gr. Barnes X, Nosler Partition, TBBC, Swift A-Frame, or Winchester Fail Safe. You can purchase them mail order. Good luck.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I like 180 grain bullets----my Remington seems to shoot tight groups with them. I've never had any luck with "Fail-safes" grouping-----BIG groups---plate size. IMO--the 30/06 does well with standard bullets. I like the Hornady "interlock" spire point in 180 grain for my handloads but have taken elk with plain jane "Core-lokts' & "Power-points"---in factory loads.

But if you feel the more confident in a premium bullet---I suggest the Federal 180 grain Nolser Partition.

I also feel that the standard loads for the 06 are just fine for elk. IMO the HE or Light Mag loads are nothing but marketing hype.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I shot a few Remington 180 core lokt yesterday and my gun likes them. I have a box of the Federal with the 180 barnes coming to try. If they don't shoot as good as the cheeper remingtons I will go with the Remingtons. I shot a six shot group one right after the other with no barrel coolong time into a nice 1 inch cluster.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

For long range: I like the 180 grain Federal High Energy Loads (can't use in Semi's)

For short range: I like 180 grain - any quality round (nosler partition, hornady interlocks or interbonds, etc).
Just remember, with elk, shoot them until their dead. They take a lot of killing! Last year's bull took 4 rounds before dropping. Year before took 2 rounds. Four years ago took 3 rounds. My first bull, a spike took 6 rounds. All of these were shot with 30-06 180 grain....and only one shot ruined any meat. I've heard of too many elk getting away wounded. I shoot them until they stay down.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

"my gun likes them" Good point! The 165's and the 180's will do the job. See which your gun likes.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I have a 30-06 and I shoot 180 & 220 core lokt's out of it and do well with both. Don't spend tons of money on noseler's etc. I just shot a moose with a 220 core lockt last week and it dropped right on spot. No need to waste money on fancy ammo when a box of $20 core-lokt will most definitely do the trick.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I think either weight will do fine, but I still think that premium bullets will help on the average.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I have two 30-06's and hunt elk every year and won't use anything but 180's. I shoot Hornady Light Mag's in my Remington and Core-Lokt's in my Savage because it won't shoot the hot ammo very well. Federal ammo shoots well but tends to frag out and I have seen too many lost animals and too muchruined meat from them.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

try hornady light magnum 165grain SST 2oo-fps faster velocities than most standard ammo. Definitely drop em!!

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I would consider the Federal High Energy 180 grain Nosler Partition. This load chronied out at 2831 FPS in a 22" barrel in a recent article.This is faster and flatter than most competative 165s "claimed" velocity from a 24" barrel.
If you prefer a 165 I would try the High Energy TBBC or the Hornady Light Mag with the Interbond. Both the Interbond and TBBC do an excellent job of retaining weight, but the Interbond carries energy better downrange. The Interbond is tougher version of the SST bullet Heeze Gut Shot recommended.
This stuff is expensive, $26.00 for 20 rounds.

RE: 30-06 bullet weight on elk
 

I am using federal premium with Nosler Partitions in 180 grain. They group well in my rifle. If the 165 grain bullets group well in yours, I would use those. My guide says he has killed many elk with 140 grain 6.5 swedes becasue he can shoot it well. IMHO, you are better off with a round that you have the most confidence in as you will be more likely to place the shot. And shot placement is the main thing.
okcmco