B Stopping power of rifle slugs

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The discussion centers on the effectiveness of rifle slugs, particularly in the context of hunting large game like tigers and Kodiak bears. A notable figure, Harry R. Caldwell, reportedly used smaller caliber rifles (.22 and .25) for big game, raising questions about the physics of stopping power and kinetic energy. Participants debate the importance of bullet mass versus velocity, noting that larger slugs maintain velocity better over distance and create more significant wound channels. The conversation also touches on the need for a clearer definition of "stopping power" and how it relates to shot placement and bullet characteristics. Overall, the thread highlights the complexity of ballistics in hunting scenarios and the anecdotal nature of Caldwell's hunting stories.
  • #31
Frabjous said:
There is a maximum velocity. Once the bullet exits the body with “sufficient” velocity, energy is being wasted.
Yes and no?

Higher velocity doesn't actually necessarily mean more penetration. Extremely high velocity can cause massive hydrostatic shock on impact, causing pressures that can break up the bullet or cause it to tumble and that can also cause it to dump energy much faster than a lower velocity round would. In some cases, a very high velocity small round can have *less* penetration than a large slow round with the same energy, while causing much more damage near the initial entry wound. For an example of this, look how fast a .22-250 dumps its energy in this test:



That having been said, even the highest velocity 22 caliber rounds (220 swift) would make me nervous with something like a grizzly or moose. In theory, it should have plenty of energy, but I'd still feel more comfortable with something a bit more powerful.
 

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