marlin 375 for moose hunting

[summitx]

I have a chance to do a cow moose hunt and was wondering if my Marlin 375 would be enough for a cow moose. I would be using factory loads 200 grain factory loads since I'm not set up for reloading, is there any place out there were a person could buy a heavy load with more punch to it. Also about what range 150-175 yards. Thanks Steve

[Cabin4]

I would use it. 375 is a very good game killer and moose is not outside its capability. Your range may be pushing it a bit, but it should do the job if placement is correct.

[Dr. A]

Having seen my brother put down a medium sized doe with his 375 last year, I would guess you're going to need to be a little lucky with the factory loads.  They are anemic, and the bullet expanded very little.  He shot from 55 yards and  was fairly dissapointed in performance.  She went down, but not very authoritatively.  We were and have been much more impressed with the little 35 Rem.  On the other hand, a hot loaded 220gr. Hornady handload might be just the ticket.  Surely someone could reload some for you.  I'm not sure if any of the premium ammo manufacturers have taken on this caliber yet.  Good luck whatever you do.

[Dr. A]

I have heard that on occasion some will fire the 38-55 ammo in a 375 win. I know the opposite is not true.   Buffalo bore makes a fine higher powered load for this cartridge.  Buffalo bore says the 38-55 in two different loadings are appropriate for your rifle. http://www.buffalobore.com/ammunition/default.htm

[Dand]

I suggest you talk to the guys at Great Northern Guns, or Wild West Guns there in Anchorage.  I bet they could put you onto a custom loader there in Anchorage.  You'll get all sorts of opinions about the suitability of the caliber - but I think if you limit your shooting to about 100-125 yds it should work.  I took a moose with a 30-30 once - lucked out and hit the back bone.  I think the 3 75 win would be a better choice.  I think sveral shops around Anchorage carry Buffalo Bore ammo - check around.  Good luck.

[RIFLERANGER]

It is definitely time for you to take up hand loading.
You are correct with regards to the factory 375 being anemic, and worst is, there was never a good reason for them to be like that.
The few firearms that were chambered for it were more than capable of much higher pressures and therefore velocities.
A properly loaded 375, from what I remember from Enforcers data, will put you in the 2000 fps range with a 220gr bullet, which will without a doubt put down even a bull moose at 150 - 175 yards.
A well placed shot will do the trick even with factory, but with a moose, I would definitely want to be 100 yards or under to be safe, even though it technically is capable of a bit more, but loading your own is still the best option.
If you want to send me some brass and bullets, I would be happy to load some moose pills for you at no charge but the return postage, primers and powder are on me.
Of course, you will have to send me a moose roast !!  
Ranger