Choosing the Right Hunting Caliber

Choosing the Right Hunting Caliber

In the world of hunting, using the right tool for the job is essential. Much like using a screwdriver for screws and a hammer for nails, selecting the correct hunting caliber and bullet is crucial for a successful and ethical hunt. In this article, we'll explore some aspects of caliber selection, with a focus on modern cartridges, bullet performance, and the importance of responsible shot placement.

How About Modern Cartridges?

Let's do the math on one of the most popular calibers, the infamous 6.5x55 SE. Introduced in 1894 for Scandinavian militaries, it became popular for hunting and target shooting due to its low recoil, universal use and excellent accuracy. In contrast, the 6.5 Creedmoor, introduced in 2007, was designed primarily for long-range shooting but quickly gained popularity among hunters because of its flat trajectory, high ballistic coefficient bullets, and reduced recoil. Both cartridges share the same caliber, but the 6.5 Creedmoor outperforms the 6.5x55 SE in various aspects.

Comparing the two, the 6.5 Creedmoor benefits from a modern cartridge design with long neck and steep shoulder, optimized for higher pressure loads and long-range precision. With a higher muzzle velocity of 820 m/s compared to the 6.5x55 SE's 800 m/s using the same 140-grain bullet, the 6.5 Creedmoor provides a flatter trajectory at 100 m and 300 m, resulting in less bullet drop. Additionally, the 6.5 Creedmoor has slightly less recoil energy due to its efficient case design, making it more comfortable to shoot in lightweight rifles. Its short-length action also provides additional user benefits.

While the 6.5x55 SE remains a trusted legacy cartridge with a proven track record and consistent performance, the 6.5 Creedmoor offers better precision and is supported by an extensive range of factory loads, including high BC precision hunting bullets like the NORMA Bondstrike. The science of ballistics has advanced rapidly in the past 20 years, with innovative components not only improving existing calibers but also bringing entirely new ones to the table. Be open-minded when choosing the right tool for you—think as if you're already in the 21st century.

The Importance of Bullet Selection

While a caliber delivers energy at particular distance, the bullet itself plays the vital role in ensuring a quick and humane kill. It's essential to choose the right bullet type based on the game you're pursuing.

Soft and Expanding Bullets vs. Deep Penetrating Bullets

• Soft and Expanding Bullets: Ideal for deer-sized game, these bullets expand rapidly upon impact, causing significant internal damage and ensuring a quick kill. They are best for hunters prioritizing immediate energy transfer. The most expanding, such as NORMA Tipstrike, are tailored for the instant stop and will be a perfect companion on driven hunts or at dense vegetation areas.
• Deep Penetrating Bullets: These bullets are designed to maintain their shape upon impact and penetrate deeply, making them suitable for larger game like elk or moose. You also benefit of less wasted meat at cost the game may walk some additional meters after being shot. From the NORMA portfolio the right one for you will be Ecostrike which is also lead-free.

Recoil Management and Personal Consideration

Selecting the right caliber isn't just about the size of the game but also about personal constitution and experience. Managing recoil is crucial for maintaining concentration, the ability to see bullet impact, and ensuring accurate follow-up shots. Low-recoil calibers like the 6.5 Creedmoor or .243 Winchester can be ideal not only for newer hunters or those sensitive to recoil but also in situations where they are simply sufficient for the job. There's no shame in using light-recoiling calibers, as they reduce the hassle of shot anticipation and shooter error. Think carefully before committing to a large game caliber like the 9.3x62. I personally own this caliber and find it awesome and versatile, but while shooting three rounds of 9.3x62, I can shoot five rounds of .308 Win in the same amount of time with greater precision and control.

Where legal, suppressors can significantly reduce recoil and muzzle blast, enhancing concentration and minimizing the inconvenience of loud shots. NORMA's Silencer ammunition is specifically designed for suppressed rifles, providing consistent, accurate performance especially in shorter barrels.

The Importance of Shot Placement

Even with all the advancements in ballistics, the final difference comes down to the hunter. The best bullet will only work if it hits the right spot. Ethical hunters must practice their shooting skills to make sure they can place their shots responsibly. Taking time to train, understand how your rifle behaves, and learn your target's anatomy will lead to a successful and ethical hunt.

Hunters should practice regularly to understand how their rifles perform in different conditions and improve shot placement. Learning how wind, elevation, and distance affect a bullet's path helps hunters adjust their aim accurately. It's also important to know where the vital organs of the target are so every shot results in a quick and humane kill, minimizing suffering. In the difficult situations remember “the shot you did not take is the second best you could do”.

Conclusion

Choosing the right hunting bullet and caliber requires careful consideration of game type, personal ability, and the hunting environment. Modern cartridges supersede the „old classics“, offer superb performance with manageable recoil, while well-chosen bullets ensure a quick and ethical kill.

Martin Brozek

Norma Ambassador, Czech Republic