Thank you very much for the thorough reply. I use 223 for coyotes just because it’s easier with a semi especially this time of year when 2-3 come out at once, but I trust my 6GT out a loonngggg way. I have shot it in simulated hunting conditions over clear cuts at my club this spring and gotten consistent hits in varying weather conditions out past 550y. Obviously animals move, flight time, etc but having a flat shooting rifle to cover these clear cuts is going to be pretty exciting. I just didn’t trust OTMs for the reasons you mentioned.
I have used ELDX in 6.5 and it’s unusual. I’ve killed everything I’ve ever shot with it, usually dropped it in its tracks from coyotes to deer to 250lb boars. But I’ve never had a pass through. It’s like they just detonate inside the animal. I don’t know if I’d use one on a heavier animal like Moose but despite the lack of pass throughs ive been very impressed with how they immediately drop everything.
I think 6mm ELDX would be fine for my purposes. I’ll load some up and give them a try. Do you happen to have a pet load for those bullets with 4350 or RL16?