Stopping power of rifle slugs

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effectiveness of rifle slugs, particularly the .22 and .25 caliber, in hunting large game such as tigers and Kodiak bears. Participants analyze the physics of stopping power, emphasizing kinetic energy (KE) and momentum as critical factors. The conversation highlights the importance of bullet mass and velocity, with references to drag forces and wound ballistics. Ultimately, the consensus is that while high velocity can be effective, the choice of caliber must be appropriate for the game being hunted.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of kinetic energy and momentum in physics
  • Familiarity with wound ballistics and bullet characteristics
  • Knowledge of rifle calibers and their applications in hunting
  • Basic grasp of drag forces and their impact on projectile motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research "wound ballistics" and its measurement techniques
  • Explore the physics of "stopping power" in hunting contexts
  • Study the effects of drag coefficients on bullet performance
  • Learn about different rifle calibers and their effectiveness on large game
USEFUL FOR

Hunters, firearms enthusiasts, ballistics researchers, and anyone interested in the physics of projectile motion and its implications for hunting effectiveness.

  • #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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