Quick Answer
The .375 H&H is a capable cartridge for hunting multiple dangerous game species, offering a good balance between expansion, penetration, and kinetic energy.
Cartridge Capabilities
The .375 H&H is a classic big game cartridge that has been used for decades to take down various dangerous game species, including Cape buffalo, elephant, and crocodile. Its 300-grain bullets typically have a muzzle velocity of around 2,500-2,600 feet per second, generating approximately 4,000 foot-pounds of kinetic energy. This is sufficient to deliver a one-shot kill on most large game animals.
Real-World Performance
In real-world hunting scenarios, the .375 H&H has been used to take down numerous elephants, with reported shot distances ranging from 50 to 150 yards. For example, a 300-grain Remington Core-Lokt bullet was reported to have expanded to 0.625 inches in diameter and penetrated 22 inches of tissue in a shot taken at 100 yards on a 6-ton elephant bull. This performance is a testament to the cartridge’s effectiveness in hunting large game.
Bullet Selection
When hunting with the .375 H&H, it’s essential to choose the right bullet for the job. Soft-point and full-jacketed bullets are suitable for most big game hunting, while Barnes TSX and Speer SPIT-FIRE bullets offer improved expansion and penetration. A good rule of thumb is to select a bullet with a sectional density of 0.20 or higher, which will help ensure reliable expansion on impact. This will also help prevent over-penetration and minimize the risk of causing unnecessary damage to the animal.
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