.44 for Elk?

[Randy M]

I know similar questions have probably been asked a gazillion times, but I have a specific load in mind.  My current set up for whitetails and hogs under 200 lbs is a 240 grain Sierra JSP, pushed by 17 grains of 2400.  According to the books, it should be right at 1200 - 1250 fps.  I know it's a light load but this combination has been stellar on the two deer I've killed this year.  But...I lay awake at night and think about chasing the wiley wapiti down the road.  I would like one load for all my needs (understanding dangerous game are a different story), and was wondering if this bullet weight is enough for Elk out to say 75 yards?  Do I need to go up in bullet weight?  If so, what combination in terms of bullet weight and speed should I shoot (pun totally intended) for?

Thanks for any help.  Handgun hunting is the worst kind of drug I've ever been on.  I'm sick with it.  I need help...

best,
Randy

[Larry Gibson]

I know for a fact that the Hornady XTP over 24.5 gr of H110 kills Rocky Mtn elk.  That load runs 1425-1500 fps out of 6.5 - 7.5" barreled revolvers.  It runs 1540 fps with 31,200 psi(M43) out of my Contender 8.4" barrel.  Accuracy is sub 1" at 50 yards with the Contender and I shot a couple 3 shot groups of 1.5-2" at 100 yards. It wears a 1.5X scope.  The 1425 fps comes from my 6.5" barreled Ruger 50th anniversary BHFT.  Penetration and expansion are all you'll need on elk. I've shot a couple deer with this load out of 4 and 6" revolvers and the shots were all through and through. I don't do Texas heart shots so can't speak to that.  My impression is that the XTP at that velocity kills quicker than a heavier hard cast bullet, even those with very wide meplats.  Those hard cast kill well also so I'm not argueing against their use. Just telling what I've observed from several animals, including elk, killed with the .44 Magnum.

Larry Gibson

[Randy M]

Larry, thanks for your help!  Good luck this season.

Randy

[LaOtto222]

Larry - Those Rocky Mountain Elk must be stupid. Don't they know you can't kill them with a 44 Mag?