Quick Answer
Bonded bullets can be suitable for hunting in densely wooded areas due to their ability to retain mass and penetration, but their performance may be affected by the dense foliage.
Performance in Dense Foliage
Densely wooded areas can be challenging for bullet performance due to the dense foliage that can cause deflection and tumbling. Bonded bullets, however, are designed to maintain their integrity even after penetration, which can help minimize the impact of deflection. A bonded bullet’s jacket is specifically designed to adhere to the lead core, ensuring that the bullet stays intact and maintains its weight, even after passing through obstacles.
Penetration and Expansion
When hunting in dense woods, penetration is crucial to ensure that the bullet can reach vital organs and cause a quick kill. Bonded bullets are designed to penetrate deeper and expand more consistently than non-bonded bullets, which can be crucial in wooded areas where shots may be more challenging. A good starting point for penetration is to look for bullets with a minimum of 90 grains and a ballistic coefficient (BC) of 0.45 or higher.
Choosing the Right Bullet
When selecting a bonded bullet for hunting in dense woods, it’s essential to consider the type of game you’re after and the terrain you’ll be hunting in. For example, when hunting elk in dense woods, a 150-grain bonded bullet with a BC of 0.45 or higher and a muzzle velocity of 2,800 feet per second or higher can provide the necessary penetration and expansion. Look for bullets with a jacket that’s specifically designed for hunting, such as a copper jacket or a gilding metal jacket, and a lead core that’s designed to provide consistent expansion.
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