driftrider

I am curious about the terminal performance differences between the .452 caliber 240 grain XTP-Mag vs. the 250 grain XTP when fired at .454 Casull velocities (1700-1900fps at the muzzle) when used on whitetail deer(the bigger northern kind).

I've loaded and fired a batch of 300 grain XTP-Mags, and while the accuracy was good I just don't need that much bullet for deer and worry that the 300 grain XTP-Mag is just too tough to expand in a deer sized animal, even at 1500-1600fps.

I bought a box of the 250gr. XTP's because none of my local stores stock the 240gr XTP-Mag, but it occurs to me that these bullets are designed for .45 Colt velocities which even in the hottest loads rarily get much over 1300fps, but the .454 Casull loaded with 2400 powder will easily launch these at 1500fps with starting loads. The much higher velocities possible with the Casull make me wonder if the normal XTP's would overexpand and fail to penetrate enough, but at the same time these bullets are often used in muzzleloaders where velocities in the 1900fps range aren't uncommon.

Call me a bit paranoid, but I don't want to unnecessarly wound a deer because I shot it with what amounts to a .452 caliber varmint bullet.

Thanks,

Mike

handloader1

According to the Hornady Reloading Manual the XTP-Mag is the bullet you should use. I would contact Hornady at 1-800-338-3220. Good luck.