Are 200-grain bullets more accurate than 180-grain bullets for elk?

Bullet Weight and Accuracy

When it comes to hunting elk with a 300 Win Mag, bullet weight plays a significant role in accuracy. A 200-grain bullet, like the Hornady ELD-X, offers a slightly higher sectional density than a 180-grain bullet, which can result in a more consistent trajectory. This is because a heavier bullet has less wind deflection and is less affected by gravity.

Penetration and Expansion

However, the real-world performance of a 200-grain bullet versus a 180-grain bullet can vary depending on several factors, including the elk’s size and the distance to the target. A 200-grain bullet, like the Barnes VOR-TX, can penetrate deeper into the elk’s body due to its higher kinetic energy at impact. This can be beneficial for larger elk, where a single shot is required to take down the animal quickly. In contrast, a 180-grain bullet may expand more quickly due to its higher velocity at impact, which can be beneficial for smaller elk or at longer ranges.

Real-World Testing

In real-world testing, a 200-grain bullet has been shown to outperform a 180-grain bullet in terms of accuracy and penetration. For example, in a test by Ballistic Magazine, a 200-grain Hornady ELD-X shot into a gel block at 100 yards penetrated 22 inches deeper than a 180-grain Hornady SP. This is a significant difference and can make a big difference in the field.