Which bullet for whitetails? 240 XTP or 300 Shockwave

[cherokee75]

I have a .50 Cal Omega and was just fishing for some input in regards to which bullet you would recommend between the T/C Express Mag Sabot with a 240 grain XTP (.452) and the 300 grain T/C Shockwave.  I am using (2) 50 grain Pyrodex pellets.  I recently sighted in the Omega using the 300 grain Shockwaves and shot a 2" group at 100 yards which is good for me and plenty good for hunting.  I suppose I would like to know the pros and cons of both bullets.  A shot out to 150 yards is a possibility from one of my stands (with a rest) but for the most part, I would estimate the rest of my shooting would be limited to 75 yards and under.  I know there will be plugs for other bullets but these are the two types I already have and I don't plan on purchasing any more for this hunting season.

[Two Bears]

.300 XTP Hornady works great with the Harvester sabot

[mangulator]

cherokee75, I would go with the 300 grain Shock-Wave or a 250 grain. I have taken deer with the 240 grain XTP but after switching to the Shock-Waves I have been impressed! I find the Shock-Waves to be a little more accurate at the longer ranges...

[simonkenton]

The XTP, being a hollow point, will give better expansion. The 300 Shockwave will penetrate better.
If you want a pass through shot, and two holes in the deer, use the Shockwave.
If you like the idea of very good expansion, dumping the energy into the deer, with the possibility of no exit wound, use the XTP.
I prefer the XTP.

[Biff Mayhem]

I prefer something a little different .... 300gr. XTP in .451/452. Your harvest success rate increases moving up from the 240gr. If you plan on shooting beyond 175 yards, then the higher B.C. Shockwave may add a little benefit. If not, then you really don't need it.

[cherokee75]

Thanks for the input.  I think I am going to use the Shockwaves this season and try some different bullets out in the off season.

[yellowtail3]

Decision made, sounds like, but I'll chime in anyhow.

For those under 100 shots, I'd opt for the XTP. It has flat/HP nose, which I think is more effective on critter. It makes a big hole. It costs less. Before I'd buy shockwaves, I'd got to a 300gr XTP, as somone mentioned.

I've killed several deer with the humble 240xtp on 95gr Pyrodex RX... deadly if I do my part. I've only recovered two bullets - both from high shoulder hits, where they broke bones and went through a lot of muscle - and both were perfectly expanded, no separation of core/jacket, just under the hide on the offside. Every one I've hit in the ribcage punched completely though. Impressed the heck out of me. And they're cheap! Looking at a ballistics chart... 300gr XTP would be better, but I've just not bought any. Maybe next year.