308 Win For Elk...Again:)?

Question

I have found a handload using 46gr of Varget powder that yields 2820fps. Many have said that this is a 200 yard max cartridge. It seems that it may have longer effective range than that considering the factory loads list the '06 165s at 2800fps. I know good handloads can get them near 3000, but that is not my point. What do you think about max range with this load and a Hornady Interbond bullet or something similiar? Thank you.

I mean max effective range.

I already said that above.

Answer 1

Maximum effective range depends largely on your ability to read the wind, judge range, and pull the trigger at the right time.

For me, I'd not willingly take a shot on game beyond 200 yards if there was any chance of getting closer, and if the range is beyond 300 yards,with no chance of getting closer, I'd let it go. I know my visual limitations and I know the range I can count on making a good shot, and I know the range my sight and shooting becomes iffy. You have to determine your own maximum effective range, then practice shooting, a lot.

Doc

Answer 2

The problem with trying to pin down a specific effective range, be it 200, 237, 284 or 309 yards, is the one set of variables beyond your control: the elk itself. Is it a 500-pounder or an 800? Broadside or butt? In a clearing or partially obscured by brush? Mellow or adrenaline-crazed? Has the elk seen his therapist lately? Ok, you get the idea.

If you can plop the bullet right in his wheelhouse without having to drive it thru bone or a couple feet of fatty tissue and assorted organs, then your pet handload will certainly kill him at or even beyond 300 yards, then again so will a 165gr. factory load. It's not as if the bullet will bounce off his hide at this distance. If you can put that bullet in exactly the right spot, your .308 will look like the world's best elk rifle. Jack O'Connor was such a good shot with his .270 that he sold nearly everyone on the idea that the calibre itself was some kind of magic. There have always been a minority who think they can compensate for lousy shooting by using bigger guns, so perhaps a dose of good old-fashioned marksmanship with your .308 is to be applauded. Good luck, old chap!

Answer 3

Dude,
are you gonna ask the same question for every caliber ever made ?
Now your comparing tweaked handloads for a more modern cartridge, to factory loads for 100 year old rifles. In a modern rifle a 3006 will outperform 308. It has a bigger case.
Go find an optimum game weight chart or program. that will give you suggested bullet weights and velocities required for various game. You can then use factory balistic data and crunch numbers till your hearts content. Any modern Bottle neck bullet .270 and above capable of throwing 160gr bullet at 2800 or faster is gonna adequetly arm you for elk. Bigger guns will give you more margin of era. As far as the Elk is concerned there is basically no difference in the range or effectiveness of 270's 280's 308's, 3006's or any of the 270, 7mm or 30 short mags,,,,

Answer 4

Limit the .308 to 150 yards with 180 grain Nosler Partition bullets. Otherwise, consider a new .338 Winchester for ranges out to 350 yards with adequate practice. Good luck getting within 150 yards too; Elk are spooked easily and usually all you will see wil be the tracks and crashing brush out ahead of you.

Answer 5

The vast majority of big game is harvested within 100 yards or less.* Naturally bullet placement is a key factor.* Attempt to get within 100 yards or less.*

Answer 6

Roger W must be some type of an idiot. His answer was so bad I had to comment on it. What do you think Roger? My guess is effective range, knucklehead! But sorry, I have no answer for you regarding this question. I just couldn't keep from comenting on ones lack of understanding.

Answer 7

A 308 is a little light for elk.

Answer 8

do you want to maximum range or maximum effective range ?

2 entirely different things