Elk hunting calibers and cartridges don’t have to be difficult to figure out. Randy Newberg breaks down his choices here.
Elk hunting cartridges play a vital role in the pursuit of one of North America’s most majestic big game animals, the elk. When selecting a cartridge for elk hunting, several factors come into play, such as bullet weight, velocity, energy, and accuracy.
Popular cartridges for elk hunting include the .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Winchester Magnum. These cartridges offer a balance between manageable recoil, long-range performance, and sufficient energy to take down an elk cleanly.
Bullet selection is crucial, with many hunters opting for controlled expansion bullets designed to penetrate deeply and deliver maximum energy transfer to the animal. Common bullet weights range from 150 to 200 grains, depending on the cartridge.
Accuracy is paramount, as elk hunting often involves shooting at extended distances. Opting for a cartridge that can maintain accuracy and trajectory over long ranges is essential.
Ultimately, the choice of elk hunting cartridge should be based on personal preference, shooting ability, and the specific hunting conditions. Consulting with experienced hunters and considering ballistics data can help in selecting the ideal cartridge for a successful elk hunt, which is why Randy Newberg breaks down his favorites in this video.
Run time: 5 min.
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Choosing Elk Hunting Calibers and Cartridges with Randy Newberg
