I see on sierras website that they do not recommend hunting with a sierra match king bullets. Anyone out there use them and how was the performance.
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Hunting with sierra match kings
- Thread starter k80kid
- Start date
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
search in the hunting section, there are numerous threads on this.
search in the hunting section, there are numerous threads on this.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1133658#Post1133658
4-5 posts down from the top of the page Niles Coyote links about 12 threads about the SMK use in hunting.
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=1133658#Post1133658
4-5 posts down from the top of the page Niles Coyote links about 12 threads about the SMK use in hunting.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I used a 240gr. SMK on a doe @ 50 yds. with my .300 Whisper. There was a pencil sized hole in both sides with very little blood trail. She ran 75yds. before expiring from a double lung hit. She was just as dead as all the other deer I've killed, but I wasn't impressed with the results, so I think I'll stick with Sierra's recomendation on their most accurate bullet.
I used a 240gr. SMK on a doe @ 50 yds. with my .300 Whisper. There was a pencil sized hole in both sides with very little blood trail. She ran 75yds. before expiring from a double lung hit. She was just as dead as all the other deer I've killed, but I wasn't impressed with the results, so I think I'll stick with Sierra's recomendation on their most accurate bullet.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
not even close to the best for hunting. I have taken 4-5 deer with 168 gr mk's. all have dropped dead within 50 yds except one which took a long time to bleed out.
All my shots were near perfect hits and took place within 200 yds.
I am switching to 178 gr a-max, they seem to expand better...
not even close to the best for hunting. I have taken 4-5 deer with 168 gr mk's. all have dropped dead within 50 yds except one which took a long time to bleed out.
All my shots were near perfect hits and took place within 200 yds.
I am switching to 178 gr a-max, they seem to expand better...
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Unless you're going for head shots, the animal is going to run. In my experience the distances involved in most hunting situations just don't call for the enhanced accuracy you get from a match-grade round. Use hunting bullets and put them down humanely.
Unless you're going for head shots, the animal is going to run. In my experience the distances involved in most hunting situations just don't call for the enhanced accuracy you get from a match-grade round. Use hunting bullets and put them down humanely.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Domenic,
On one side of the coin you have the maker say "don't use this bullet of ours for hunting game".
On the other side of the coin you have the proven fact that just about any bullet used on a game animal that: Penetrates the brain, breaks the spine, breaks one or both shoulders, perforates both lungs, or smashes the heart, will also kill said game animal.
So if you use a SMK for hunting, even though the maker does not recommend it, and it kills well, then you did good. If it does not, you did bad.
On the other hand, if you shoot something with an SMK, and it does not kill it, and that something can bite you back, well then:
Farewell and Adieu
Have fun.....
Domenic,
On one side of the coin you have the maker say "don't use this bullet of ours for hunting game".
On the other side of the coin you have the proven fact that just about any bullet used on a game animal that: Penetrates the brain, breaks the spine, breaks one or both shoulders, perforates both lungs, or smashes the heart, will also kill said game animal.
So if you use a SMK for hunting, even though the maker does not recommend it, and it kills well, then you did good. If it does not, you did bad.
On the other hand, if you shoot something with an SMK, and it does not kill it, and that something can bite you back, well then:
Farewell and Adieu
Have fun.....
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
"I see on sierras website that they do not recommend hunting with a sierra match king bullets. Anyone out there use them and how was the performance."
Are you asking us if Sierra knows anything about the proper use of their bullets?
"I see on sierras website that they do not recommend hunting with a sierra match king bullets. Anyone out there use them and how was the performance."
Are you asking us if Sierra knows anything about the proper use of their bullets?
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I have killed several hogs with the 6mm 95 SMK with excellent results out to 200 yards, and a buddy has killed alot of deer and one aoudad with a 6.5 140. His uncle is a gunsmith and hunted Africa for years and killed everything up to Eland with a 6.5 140. Whether it is ethical is your own call. I have seen enough to know they work, at least at higer velocities about 3100 fps. My 243 with the 95 leaves a tiny entrance hole but all of the exits have been an inch or better,and yes I shot a big hog through both shoulders to see what they would do on bone. I think at lower velocities they may not work as well but for me they have worked.I also tried out a 105 Amax at about 3000 fps and they are way too explosive for me.My best results have come from a nosler bt (the one tey say is for hunting).
I have killed several hogs with the 6mm 95 SMK with excellent results out to 200 yards, and a buddy has killed alot of deer and one aoudad with a 6.5 140. His uncle is a gunsmith and hunted Africa for years and killed everything up to Eland with a 6.5 140. Whether it is ethical is your own call. I have seen enough to know they work, at least at higer velocities about 3100 fps. My 243 with the 95 leaves a tiny entrance hole but all of the exits have been an inch or better,and yes I shot a big hog through both shoulders to see what they would do on bone. I think at lower velocities they may not work as well but for me they have worked.I also tried out a 105 Amax at about 3000 fps and they are way too explosive for me.My best results have come from a nosler bt (the one tey say is for hunting).
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Opinions vary from one extreme to the other. I'm still of the belief that bullet placement trumps bullet construction. I've yet to have an animal get away after being hit with an SMK, but I usually run the 190 SMK's out of a 300WM. My 308's have not had any problems either. Most all shots were 300 yds or less and bullet placement in the vitals. I will continue to use them.
Opinions vary from one extreme to the other. I'm still of the belief that bullet placement trumps bullet construction. I've yet to have an animal get away after being hit with an SMK, but I usually run the 190 SMK's out of a 300WM. My 308's have not had any problems either. Most all shots were 300 yds or less and bullet placement in the vitals. I will continue to use them.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: gebhardt02</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Opinions vary from one extreme to the other. I'm still of the belief that bullet placement trumps bullet construction. I've yet to have an animal get away after being hit with an SMK, but I usually run the 190 SMK's out of a 300WM. My 308's have not had any problems either. Most all shots were 300 yds or less and bullet placement in the vitals. I will continue to use them. </div></div>
+1, I've killed Elk, deer and antelope with 190smk's, and 175smk's, some might have gone a little longer than hoped, while others dropped dead in their tracks. but I've seen animals run alot farther with "hunting bullets" when hit improperly. its all about the placement, ventilated organs bring no life.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: gebhardt02</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Opinions vary from one extreme to the other. I'm still of the belief that bullet placement trumps bullet construction. I've yet to have an animal get away after being hit with an SMK, but I usually run the 190 SMK's out of a 300WM. My 308's have not had any problems either. Most all shots were 300 yds or less and bullet placement in the vitals. I will continue to use them. </div></div>
+1, I've killed Elk, deer and antelope with 190smk's, and 175smk's, some might have gone a little longer than hoped, while others dropped dead in their tracks. but I've seen animals run alot farther with "hunting bullets" when hit improperly. its all about the placement, ventilated organs bring no life.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
why not just use Game Kings? sure you can use them and kill an animal, but use a good hunting bullet for best takedown and a clean humane kill. there is a reason they say not for hunting.
why not just use Game Kings? sure you can use them and kill an animal, but use a good hunting bullet for best takedown and a clean humane kill. there is a reason they say not for hunting.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I've used the GK bullets as well and have found them to be very accurate. I just prefer to use the same bullets that I shoot for everything else. Something to be said for familiarity of equipment. I also don't force myself into taking marginal to bad shots on game.
I've used the GK bullets as well and have found them to be very accurate. I just prefer to use the same bullets that I shoot for everything else. Something to be said for familiarity of equipment. I also don't force myself into taking marginal to bad shots on game.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I shot a small six point with a 175 SMK at about 250 yards. Only because he was in the field in front of my house. I grabbed my rifle and one bullet ( the wrong one). Dropped in his tracks with no exit. I got lucky. I wouldn't suggest SMKs for hunting though.
I shot a small six point with a 175 SMK at about 250 yards. Only because he was in the field in front of my house. I grabbed my rifle and one bullet ( the wrong one). Dropped in his tracks with no exit. I got lucky. I wouldn't suggest SMKs for hunting though.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I shoot the 155 grain Palma bullet in my 300 WSM for deer. The load is devastating. Very few deer take a single step after being shot. We also use the 168 grain bullet in our 300 WM's. This bullet and combination is also deadly as hell on deer.
I never could understand that when hunters shoot a bullet like this in a 300 magnum that they are unethical. And then a week later your read a post where lots of hunters think that a 223 is an adequate deer cartridge, just because they pay $40 for a box of ridiculously expensive bullets.
Did anybody ever think that Sierra might tell you to hunt with a different bullet so they could sell another box of bullets?? I would love to see someone prove that a 155 grain Palma would not kil a deer. We have shot hundreds with ours.
I will not question a hunter who chooses to shoot the best bullet he can when he hunts critters that hunt back. But how many people actually do that?? Not very many. The majority of us in the USA strictly shoot thin skinned game that eats grass. If you have the money to waste on expensive bullets then by all means do it, it is your money. But is it necessary---no way. Heck we elk hunt for fun with cast bullets that I cast in my garage that do not cost me a dime. My G_d how could a bullet like that kill anything?? Tom.
I shoot the 155 grain Palma bullet in my 300 WSM for deer. The load is devastating. Very few deer take a single step after being shot. We also use the 168 grain bullet in our 300 WM's. This bullet and combination is also deadly as hell on deer.
I never could understand that when hunters shoot a bullet like this in a 300 magnum that they are unethical. And then a week later your read a post where lots of hunters think that a 223 is an adequate deer cartridge, just because they pay $40 for a box of ridiculously expensive bullets.
Did anybody ever think that Sierra might tell you to hunt with a different bullet so they could sell another box of bullets?? I would love to see someone prove that a 155 grain Palma would not kil a deer. We have shot hundreds with ours.
I will not question a hunter who chooses to shoot the best bullet he can when he hunts critters that hunt back. But how many people actually do that?? Not very many. The majority of us in the USA strictly shoot thin skinned game that eats grass. If you have the money to waste on expensive bullets then by all means do it, it is your money. But is it necessary---no way. Heck we elk hunt for fun with cast bullets that I cast in my garage that do not cost me a dime. My G_d how could a bullet like that kill anything?? Tom.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
if i'm going to kill an animal i always use headshots. bullet type has never seemed to matter. if i can't get a clean headshot, i won't shoot til i can. 175 SMK's kill hogs dead in their tracks.
if i'm going to kill an animal i always use headshots. bullet type has never seemed to matter. if i can't get a clean headshot, i won't shoot til i can. 175 SMK's kill hogs dead in their tracks.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I tested some 65gn SGK the other day out of my AR and damn they were accurate and hard hitting!
Shot along side the SMK's and were just as accurate out to 250 yards.
I understand the familiarity with bullet idea but honestly out to several hundred yards your not going to notice the difference with the GK's.
250 yards my last 3 rounds I brought for testing. Dont have an actual measurement but I'd guess 2" or less.
I tested some 65gn SGK the other day out of my AR and damn they were accurate and hard hitting!
Shot along side the SMK's and were just as accurate out to 250 yards.
I understand the familiarity with bullet idea but honestly out to several hundred yards your not going to notice the difference with the GK's.
250 yards my last 3 rounds I brought for testing. Dont have an actual measurement but I'd guess 2" or less.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I never understand these threads on using SMK's on animals. There are always strong opinions on both sides and it gets people all fired up. Will a SMK kill a deer - sure it will with the right shot placement but I don’t do it because there are so many other bonded bullets out there that work so much better; Barnes TTSX, Nosler Accubond etc... if I do screw up and have a bad placed shot then using the TTSX's gives me a better chance at anchoring the animal. It is not always perfect in the woods and I always can't get a perfect shot so I use the best HUNTING BONDED bullets that I can find. Why take a chance.
I never understand these threads on using SMK's on animals. There are always strong opinions on both sides and it gets people all fired up. Will a SMK kill a deer - sure it will with the right shot placement but I don’t do it because there are so many other bonded bullets out there that work so much better; Barnes TTSX, Nosler Accubond etc... if I do screw up and have a bad placed shot then using the TTSX's gives me a better chance at anchoring the animal. It is not always perfect in the woods and I always can't get a perfect shot so I use the best HUNTING BONDED bullets that I can find. Why take a chance.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I used to use them for varmints in in 25-06AI until I shot a crow at 200 or so yards and the bird actually flew about 50 yards before it relaised it couldent breath and flopped to the ground. I dident know it before I shot but there was an old man sitting behind his house and witnessed the whole thing. He walked out to the bird and picked it up and examined it and then stood there looking around in every direction trying to figure out what the fuck just happend. I slipped away and he never saw me I bet he is still wondering.
I used to use them for varmints in in 25-06AI until I shot a crow at 200 or so yards and the bird actually flew about 50 yards before it relaised it couldent breath and flopped to the ground. I dident know it before I shot but there was an old man sitting behind his house and witnessed the whole thing. He walked out to the bird and picked it up and examined it and then stood there looking around in every direction trying to figure out what the fuck just happend. I slipped away and he never saw me I bet he is still wondering.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
For what its worth, I shot a doe with a 155 Scenar in the neck at about 150 yards. The doe had her head down and was facing me. The bullet ended up somewhere deep in her guts. She dropped right there but didn't die right away. Last week, I shot a fox at 200 yards with the same bullet/load combo and the bullet blew up and disembowled the fox.
I think the problem is the inconsistancy of expansion, or lack there of. I know, thank you very much Captain Obvious.
For what its worth, I shot a doe with a 155 Scenar in the neck at about 150 yards. The doe had her head down and was facing me. The bullet ended up somewhere deep in her guts. She dropped right there but didn't die right away. Last week, I shot a fox at 200 yards with the same bullet/load combo and the bullet blew up and disembowled the fox.
I think the problem is the inconsistancy of expansion, or lack there of. I know, thank you very much Captain Obvious.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Imagine that, a .338Caliber 300 Grain SMK @ 2720 FPS will kill a deer!!!!
I can imagine if you stood several in a row, you could kill them all with one shot. Is that what meant by shooting several???
Just curious,
Bob
Imagine that, a .338Caliber 300 Grain SMK @ 2720 FPS will kill a deer!!!!
I can imagine if you stood several in a row, you could kill them all with one shot. Is that what meant by shooting several???
Just curious,
Bob
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
THOUSANDS of 150-250lb mammals have been killed quickly and cleanly with 168-175 SMK.
Your saying its fine to take out a "tango" but unethical to shoot a deer with??
YES there are better bullet designs out there! But if you put a 168 smk traveling at 2700fps where its SUPPOSED to go it will kill.
SORRY FOR THE RANT!
THOUSANDS of 150-250lb mammals have been killed quickly and cleanly with 168-175 SMK.
Your saying its fine to take out a "tango" but unethical to shoot a deer with??
YES there are better bullet designs out there! But if you put a 168 smk traveling at 2700fps where its SUPPOSED to go it will kill.
SORRY FOR THE RANT!
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Never tried to line em up! You got to believe it would work though. The final word is accuracy!!! That is why the load is as slow as it is. Some guys really try to shoot the heavy stuff too fast.
Never tried to line em up! You got to believe it would work though. The final word is accuracy!!! That is why the load is as slow as it is. Some guys really try to shoot the heavy stuff too fast.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
If you use them put it in the shoulder so they dont run far. The Gamekings are better.
If you use them put it in the shoulder so they dont run far. The Gamekings are better.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
The game kings lack the BC of the SMK's but the accuracy of them is very fine.
I selected the accubond due to the touted match accuracy with the bonded bullets. I was having all sorts of trouble getting accubonds to shoot consistently accurate in my new .260 and switched to the game king. Sub moa with the the SGK's. Much better than the 4moa accuracy of the accubond.
I sent an email to Nosler asking if they had any QC issues on the lot I had and on how to achieve better accuracy and got no suggestions, just a free box of bullets that they said to try and wished me luck.
I always heard the SGK was near SMK in accuracy. It is, at least out to 300-400 yards which is all I'm looking.
The game kings lack the BC of the SMK's but the accuracy of them is very fine.
I selected the accubond due to the touted match accuracy with the bonded bullets. I was having all sorts of trouble getting accubonds to shoot consistently accurate in my new .260 and switched to the game king. Sub moa with the the SGK's. Much better than the 4moa accuracy of the accubond.
I sent an email to Nosler asking if they had any QC issues on the lot I had and on how to achieve better accuracy and got no suggestions, just a free box of bullets that they said to try and wished me luck.
I always heard the SGK was near SMK in accuracy. It is, at least out to 300-400 yards which is all I'm looking.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I know that severl say that the SMK's are not suitable for hunting or even that it's unethical to hunt with them. I can only go on my experiences. For the last 5 or so years I have only hunted with 168 SMK's and 155 Lapua Scenars. I have shot numerous deer with both of these bullets and have had excellent results. Every deer that I have shot with them died just as fast and as ethical as deer that I have shot with bullets that were designed for hunting. Many of them dropped DRT! I always like to post these 2 pics when this argument comes up. This is what's left of the deer's heart and the exit wound from a 168 SMK!
I know that severl say that the SMK's are not suitable for hunting or even that it's unethical to hunt with them. I can only go on my experiences. For the last 5 or so years I have only hunted with 168 SMK's and 155 Lapua Scenars. I have shot numerous deer with both of these bullets and have had excellent results. Every deer that I have shot with them died just as fast and as ethical as deer that I have shot with bullets that were designed for hunting. Many of them dropped DRT! I always like to post these 2 pics when this argument comes up. This is what's left of the deer's heart and the exit wound from a 168 SMK!
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
In .30 cal 168 and 175's work on double lung or shoulder hits. Every time, in my expirence. I would have more concerns about the guys taking head shots. A lot can and will go wrong with that, if you do it enough. If you have only shot about 15 deer in your life, you may have a perfect record with head shots. Shoot a bunch and some will survive with broken jaws. I see one like that every once in a while.
I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have.
In .30 cal 168 and 175's work on double lung or shoulder hits. Every time, in my expirence. I would have more concerns about the guys taking head shots. A lot can and will go wrong with that, if you do it enough. If you have only shot about 15 deer in your life, you may have a perfect record with head shots. Shoot a bunch and some will survive with broken jaws. I see one like that every once in a while.
I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
The last week of the rifle season this year I shot a doe with my 338 EDGE with 300 SMK. The deer was 428 yds and quartering away. My shot hit a little further back than I wanted. It was very late in the evening and by the time I gathered all my stuff and headed in her direction it was dark. I was expecting to find her on the spot.....but...she had managed to make it about 40 yards into the woods. She was not bleeding much when I loaded her on my ATV. Got her back to the shop and noticed that the bullet did not exit. (Some will call BS but that is what it was) I hung her up and skinned her. Upon opening her up it looked like you took everything inside her out, put it in a blender and poured it back in. I didn't gut her I drained her
I didn't recover the bullet....as I was by myself and it was COLD! Wish I had recovered the bullet to see what it looked like.
The last week of the rifle season this year I shot a doe with my 338 EDGE with 300 SMK. The deer was 428 yds and quartering away. My shot hit a little further back than I wanted. It was very late in the evening and by the time I gathered all my stuff and headed in her direction it was dark. I was expecting to find her on the spot.....but...she had managed to make it about 40 yards into the woods. She was not bleeding much when I loaded her on my ATV. Got her back to the shop and noticed that the bullet did not exit. (Some will call BS but that is what it was) I hung her up and skinned her. Upon opening her up it looked like you took everything inside her out, put it in a blender and poured it back in. I didn't gut her I drained her
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: GoldenRod</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The last week of the rifle season this year I shot a doe with my 338 EDGE with 300 SMK. The deer was 428 yds and quartering away. My shot hit a little further back than I wanted. It was very late in the evening and by the time I gathered all my stuff and headed in her direction it was dark. I was expecting to find her on the spot.....but...she had managed to make it about 40 yards into the woods. She was not bleeding much when I loaded her on my ATV. Got her back to the shop and noticed that the bullet did not exit. (Some will call BS but that is what it was) I hung her up and skinned her. Upon opening her up it looked like you took everything inside her out, put it in a blender and poured it back in. I didn't gut her I drained her
I didn't recover the bullet....as I was by myself and it was COLD! Wish I had recovered the bullet to see what it looked like. </div></div>
I suspect it is merely luck that determines if the MK's thin jacket will hold up or not. If it does, then you get good penetration, not much expansion. If it doesn't the bullets explodes and messes up their guts pretty good.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: GoldenRod</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The last week of the rifle season this year I shot a doe with my 338 EDGE with 300 SMK. The deer was 428 yds and quartering away. My shot hit a little further back than I wanted. It was very late in the evening and by the time I gathered all my stuff and headed in her direction it was dark. I was expecting to find her on the spot.....but...she had managed to make it about 40 yards into the woods. She was not bleeding much when I loaded her on my ATV. Got her back to the shop and noticed that the bullet did not exit. (Some will call BS but that is what it was) I hung her up and skinned her. Upon opening her up it looked like you took everything inside her out, put it in a blender and poured it back in. I didn't gut her I drained her
I suspect it is merely luck that determines if the MK's thin jacket will hold up or not. If it does, then you get good penetration, not much expansion. If it doesn't the bullets explodes and messes up their guts pretty good.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rth1800</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have. </div></div>
I'm sorry, but this is just funny. You've obviously never seen the damage a broadhead inflicts.
It is just like hunting with a rifle in that you have to put it in the right spot.
dntfxr
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rth1800</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have. </div></div>
I'm sorry, but this is just funny. You've obviously never seen the damage a broadhead inflicts.
It is just like hunting with a rifle in that you have to put it in the right spot.
dntfxr
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
SMK are for head shot's only on any game animal. If you can't hit them in the head don't shot or use them!
SMK are for head shot's only on any game animal. If you can't hit them in the head don't shot or use them!
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I have shot dozens of deer on my uncles farm in Michigan. We used alot of .308 SMK's and 7mm rem mag's with 168 smk. We killed alot of deer with head shots, lung shots and front profile shots. Majority of shots are 200-300 yds, most body shots had a major hydrostatic blow out of lungs/hearts. Some shots are 500-600 yds, entry holes are small, exit holes are about 1 inch. Internals are usually blown up with evidence of jacket shredding. My opinion is that if your not breaking both front shoulders, you dont need a deep penetrating bullet on whitetail sized animals. Your not using all the bullets energy if it is leaving the animal and traveling another 200-500 yds.
I have shot dozens of deer on my uncles farm in Michigan. We used alot of .308 SMK's and 7mm rem mag's with 168 smk. We killed alot of deer with head shots, lung shots and front profile shots. Majority of shots are 200-300 yds, most body shots had a major hydrostatic blow out of lungs/hearts. Some shots are 500-600 yds, entry holes are small, exit holes are about 1 inch. Internals are usually blown up with evidence of jacket shredding. My opinion is that if your not breaking both front shoulders, you dont need a deep penetrating bullet on whitetail sized animals. Your not using all the bullets energy if it is leaving the animal and traveling another 200-500 yds.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rth1800</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have. </div></div>
I rarely participate in these "SMK hunting" threads... and there are a lot of them... but as an avid bowhunter for the last 18 years of my life... that is one of the most ill informed statements I have ever read in my entire life.
I could tongue lash you for about 2 pages on how idiotic that statement is, but it would be like talking to a wall... so I'll save my breath.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rth1800</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would also say that any good bullet in the right place is much better than an arrow. I am suprised bow hunting is even legal. Would be outlawed except for the huge lobby they have. </div></div>
I rarely participate in these "SMK hunting" threads... and there are a lot of them... but as an avid bowhunter for the last 18 years of my life... that is one of the most ill informed statements I have ever read in my entire life.
I could tongue lash you for about 2 pages on how idiotic that statement is, but it would be like talking to a wall... so I'll save my breath.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dj70</div><div class="ubbcode-body">SMK are for head shot's only on any game animal. If you can't hit them in the head don't shot or use them! </div></div>
Uh, did ya see the pics I posted above??
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dj70</div><div class="ubbcode-body">SMK are for head shot's only on any game animal. If you can't hit them in the head don't shot or use them! </div></div>
Uh, did ya see the pics I posted above??
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
The question is how long after did the animals live and or run after being shot with a FMJ? So you got lucky with a couple that might have hit bone and shattered the bullet, but why take the chance. Used a hunting round and kill them quickly don't let them suffer. My orignal statement stands, if you can't shoot them in the head or don't shoot them! Unless you eat the brain, then use a hunting round and shoot them behind the shoulder.
The question is how long after did the animals live and or run after being shot with a FMJ? So you got lucky with a couple that might have hit bone and shattered the bullet, but why take the chance. Used a hunting round and kill them quickly don't let them suffer. My orignal statement stands, if you can't shoot them in the head or don't shoot them! Unless you eat the brain, then use a hunting round and shoot them behind the shoulder.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Megahoser</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Unless you're going for head shots, the animal is going to run.
<span style="color: #FF0000">WRONG... Take out the CNS and they drop... Grave yard dead...</span>
In my experience the distances involved in most hunting situations just don't call for the enhanced accuracy you get from a match-grade round.
<span style="color: #FF0000">WRONG! Accuracy is paramount for hunting, if you mean to put them down humanely and quickly.</span>
Use hunting bullets and put them down humanely.
<span style="color: #FF0000">Shot placement will most always trump bullet selection. Place your shot in the correct spot (CNS), and they don't/CAN'T run.</span>
</div></div>
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Megahoser</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Unless you're going for head shots, the animal is going to run.
<span style="color: #FF0000">WRONG... Take out the CNS and they drop... Grave yard dead...</span>
In my experience the distances involved in most hunting situations just don't call for the enhanced accuracy you get from a match-grade round.
<span style="color: #FF0000">WRONG! Accuracy is paramount for hunting, if you mean to put them down humanely and quickly.</span>
Use hunting bullets and put them down humanely.
<span style="color: #FF0000">Shot placement will most always trump bullet selection. Place your shot in the correct spot (CNS), and they don't/CAN'T run.</span>
</div></div>
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Seems like this is a once a week discussion..
If you've never tried Sierra GAME Kings - give em a shot - in my opinion they are AS ACCURATE as a Match King - I've shot a 2" group at 500 with them - they are a great deer killing bullet..
Seems like this is a once a week discussion..
If you've never tried Sierra GAME Kings - give em a shot - in my opinion they are AS ACCURATE as a Match King - I've shot a 2" group at 500 with them - they are a great deer killing bullet..
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Folks! Just shoot what you can hit your target with. If the animal you shoot at is hit in the correct place it will go down. SMK are a good hunting bullet. SGK are a great hunting bullet as well as many more on the market. You must hit what you are shooting at in the kill zone spot to dispatch it quickly and humanely. You can't lean on bullet performance to make up for bad shot placement. I know, now we are going to hear about how partition type bullets will go completely through a grizzly bear and that is fine. But that never takes the place of precisely placed bullet. I would rather hit a griz in the eye than shoot him clean through in a non vital area. So if SMK's shoot accurate for you use them and be a safe and ethical hunter.
Guther
Folks! Just shoot what you can hit your target with. If the animal you shoot at is hit in the correct place it will go down. SMK are a good hunting bullet. SGK are a great hunting bullet as well as many more on the market. You must hit what you are shooting at in the kill zone spot to dispatch it quickly and humanely. You can't lean on bullet performance to make up for bad shot placement. I know, now we are going to hear about how partition type bullets will go completely through a grizzly bear and that is fine. But that never takes the place of precisely placed bullet. I would rather hit a griz in the eye than shoot him clean through in a non vital area. So if SMK's shoot accurate for you use them and be a safe and ethical hunter.
Guther
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BULLET SPONGE</div><div class="ubbcode-body">THOUSANDS of 150-250lb mammals have been killed quickly and cleanly with 168-175 SMK.
Your saying its fine to take out a "tango" but unethical to shoot a deer with??</div></div>
Really? You see no difference between hunting game for sport and hunting humans for work? A bad hit on a T is still a good thing. On an animal, not so much. Hunting game involves ethics, hunting humans involves ROE. I hope you are not behind the scope in an LEO/Mil application if you don't know the difference
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BULLET SPONGE</div><div class="ubbcode-body">THOUSANDS of 150-250lb mammals have been killed quickly and cleanly with 168-175 SMK.
Your saying its fine to take out a "tango" but unethical to shoot a deer with??</div></div>
Really? You see no difference between hunting game for sport and hunting humans for work? A bad hit on a T is still a good thing. On an animal, not so much. Hunting game involves ethics, hunting humans involves ROE. I hope you are not behind the scope in an LEO/Mil application if you don't know the difference
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I haven't been involved in these discussion because I don't really care that much about hunting discussions. I haven't read any of the other threads on this issue. However, I don't understand why so many guys would get wrapped around the axle on this subject when it is a very simple design issue. Sierra designed the Match King for external ballistic performance, not terminal ballistic effect. They are focused on getting the bullet to the target in the most efficient manner. This question is like asking, "Can I use a .223 to take game at 1000 yards?" It is possible to get it done, but only a fool would intentionally use that caliber for that application because it's not designed to operate in that capacity. Short answer..."Yes, SMK's will take down game." Shorter answer..."Why?"
I haven't been involved in these discussion because I don't really care that much about hunting discussions. I haven't read any of the other threads on this issue. However, I don't understand why so many guys would get wrapped around the axle on this subject when it is a very simple design issue. Sierra designed the Match King for external ballistic performance, not terminal ballistic effect. They are focused on getting the bullet to the target in the most efficient manner. This question is like asking, "Can I use a .223 to take game at 1000 yards?" It is possible to get it done, but only a fool would intentionally use that caliber for that application because it's not designed to operate in that capacity. Short answer..."Yes, SMK's will take down game." Shorter answer..."Why?"
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I have shot one deer using 168SMK in my 7mm mag...think I'll stick with the 162SST.
However, I have shot several deer out to 600yards and a decent bull elk at 838yards with my .338Edge and 300SMK's. The only rifle I've seen produce that much damage on an animal was a .444Marlin loaded with 240gr hollow points.
I have shot one deer using 168SMK in my 7mm mag...think I'll stick with the 162SST.
However, I have shot several deer out to 600yards and a decent bull elk at 838yards with my .338Edge and 300SMK's. The only rifle I've seen produce that much damage on an animal was a .444Marlin loaded with 240gr hollow points.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JSTARSZ</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I never understand these threads on using SMK's on animals. There are always strong opinions on both sides and it gets people all fired up. Will a SMK kill a deer - sure it will with the right shot placement but I don’t do it because there are so many other bonded bullets out there that work so much better; Barnes TTSX, Nosler Accubond etc... if I do screw up and have a bad placed shot then using the TTSX's gives me a better chance at anchoring the animal. It is not always perfect in the woods and I always can't get a perfect shot so I use the best HUNTING BONDED bullets that I can find. Why take a chance. </div></div>
see what happens when this SMK issue comes up - people get all worked up and have the thread keep going, going, and going... Shoot what ever kills and makes you happy. I have shot deer with bonded bullets and they ran and dropped and then I have had them drop in thier tracks. Who knows but what I do know is they die and I harverst and that is the goal. I am done now.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JSTARSZ</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I never understand these threads on using SMK's on animals. There are always strong opinions on both sides and it gets people all fired up. Will a SMK kill a deer - sure it will with the right shot placement but I don’t do it because there are so many other bonded bullets out there that work so much better; Barnes TTSX, Nosler Accubond etc... if I do screw up and have a bad placed shot then using the TTSX's gives me a better chance at anchoring the animal. It is not always perfect in the woods and I always can't get a perfect shot so I use the best HUNTING BONDED bullets that I can find. Why take a chance. </div></div>
see what happens when this SMK issue comes up - people get all worked up and have the thread keep going, going, and going... Shoot what ever kills and makes you happy. I have shot deer with bonded bullets and they ran and dropped and then I have had them drop in thier tracks. Who knows but what I do know is they die and I harverst and that is the goal. I am done now.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
yup, and even in most of the old threads I never see anything about obeying the law. I know for a fact that in the Commonwealth of Pennsyltucky, you CANNOT use SMK's or any other FMJ bullet while hunting deer. You MUST use a "bullet designed to expand on impact" and I do not take this to mean SMK HPBT's...
Also when the discussion about using FMJ on 120-180 lb mammals (insinuating humans in combat) and how effective they are - riddle me this batman -
US Military switched from .45 to 9mm why? One theory is that the 9mm is more user friendly. the other is that the 9mm is more likely to wound vs. kill, thus removing more combatants from the battlefield with every "hit" since the wounded would then require further assets to carry them away. also, doesn't the geneva convention have some rule about using FMJ? I don't know squat about the GC, so i'm really asking here...
Oh, and please remind me NOT to hunt anywhere near anyone using FMJ's...Having had rounds whiz past me just this year I do not want to think about what could happen if everyone was using FMJ instead of the "super expander 3000" bullets.
yup, and even in most of the old threads I never see anything about obeying the law. I know for a fact that in the Commonwealth of Pennsyltucky, you CANNOT use SMK's or any other FMJ bullet while hunting deer. You MUST use a "bullet designed to expand on impact" and I do not take this to mean SMK HPBT's...
Also when the discussion about using FMJ on 120-180 lb mammals (insinuating humans in combat) and how effective they are - riddle me this batman -
US Military switched from .45 to 9mm why? One theory is that the 9mm is more user friendly. the other is that the 9mm is more likely to wound vs. kill, thus removing more combatants from the battlefield with every "hit" since the wounded would then require further assets to carry them away. also, doesn't the geneva convention have some rule about using FMJ? I don't know squat about the GC, so i'm really asking here...
Oh, and please remind me NOT to hunt anywhere near anyone using FMJ's...Having had rounds whiz past me just this year I do not want to think about what could happen if everyone was using FMJ instead of the "super expander 3000" bullets.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I've shot 3 deer this year and 4 coyote they all dropped dead within 50 yards. I used 69smks out of my ar-15 at 2600fps.
I've shot 3 deer this year and 4 coyote they all dropped dead within 50 yards. I used 69smks out of my ar-15 at 2600fps.
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
I'm not a ballistics engineer or a zoologist, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. I also killed 3 deer with 2 different rifles/bullets this past season. I hand loaded rounds for both rifles.
Two deer killed with an AR loaded with 77gr. SMK's. About 70yds. One deer went down after going about 20 yards, the other dropped about 50 yards away. Shot them from a tree stand out of a group of 5 that were out in a corn field. Both hit hard in the vitals.
A couple days later, 300 WinMag 150gr. Nosler ballistic tip partition bullets. 180yd. shot knocked her down and she got up and ran about 50yds. before expiring. Hit in the vitals.
Lessons learned... I recovered one 77gr smk during cleaning. Projectile appeared to have hit a bone sideways, as it was flattened length wise. I was not impressed with the exit wound on the other animal. Even though they appeared to be humane kills, I've decided to not use smk's in a .223 again for deer. I've started working up a load of 75gr. A-Max's.
As for the 300winmag.... What can I say? Wound channel and exit wound was devastating. I honestly don't understand how she even got back up after the initial hit. I killed a buck the year before with a similar load and hit. He didn't take a step after the shot. Go figure.
So, what am I trying to say? You can kill with just about anything. Hell, if you're good enough you can hit 'em in the head with a freakin' rock and kill 'em. As long as you are trying your best to place a shot that will dispatch the animal as humanely as possible, use whatever you like (that is within the laws of your locality). If you're in the woods simply to inflict pain and suffering on the game animal you're hunting, get the hell OUT of the woods. That's just not what we do.
Just sayin',
Ty
I'm not a ballistics engineer or a zoologist, but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night. I also killed 3 deer with 2 different rifles/bullets this past season. I hand loaded rounds for both rifles.
Two deer killed with an AR loaded with 77gr. SMK's. About 70yds. One deer went down after going about 20 yards, the other dropped about 50 yards away. Shot them from a tree stand out of a group of 5 that were out in a corn field. Both hit hard in the vitals.
A couple days later, 300 WinMag 150gr. Nosler ballistic tip partition bullets. 180yd. shot knocked her down and she got up and ran about 50yds. before expiring. Hit in the vitals.
Lessons learned... I recovered one 77gr smk during cleaning. Projectile appeared to have hit a bone sideways, as it was flattened length wise. I was not impressed with the exit wound on the other animal. Even though they appeared to be humane kills, I've decided to not use smk's in a .223 again for deer. I've started working up a load of 75gr. A-Max's.
As for the 300winmag.... What can I say? Wound channel and exit wound was devastating. I honestly don't understand how she even got back up after the initial hit. I killed a buck the year before with a similar load and hit. He didn't take a step after the shot. Go figure.
So, what am I trying to say? You can kill with just about anything. Hell, if you're good enough you can hit 'em in the head with a freakin' rock and kill 'em. As long as you are trying your best to place a shot that will dispatch the animal as humanely as possible, use whatever you like (that is within the laws of your locality). If you're in the woods simply to inflict pain and suffering on the game animal you're hunting, get the hell OUT of the woods. That's just not what we do.
Just sayin',
Ty
Re: Hunting with sierra match kings
Geneva convention doesn't allow hollow points, maybe that is what you were thinking. FMJs are actually suggested.
As for the Military Issued M9 9mm, I don't know of any of us that like it over the 45. Another example of politics taking the place of common sense in war.
Geneva convention doesn't allow hollow points, maybe that is what you were thinking. FMJs are actually suggested.
As for the Military Issued M9 9mm, I don't know of any of us that like it over the 45. Another example of politics taking the place of common sense in war.
