Bullets, Cartridges, Size, and Speed!

[@Sensorium19]

I can back to your videos long after I watch them for the first time because you always pack in so much good information and experience.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Endicott - that is the highest praise - thank you so much.

[@donaldchapman6161]

"If that doesn't solve it, I don't know what will" True words of wisdom right there. Thank you Sir. For the informative video. And the chuckle...

[@daddyOGattis]

Most excellent video unlike anything else on youtube. Very interesting i definitely agree. I hunt alot of big game animals and have experimented with alot of calibers and hand loads mass never fails you. Thank you

[@whitespacemarines4308]

The 50 BMG is an Excellent Anti-Material round. But there are some things only a 20mm Anti-Tank round or larger can fix. (Merica!,..lol). Thank you for all your wonderful videos. You are like the Mr. Rogers of the gun world. I hope you take that as the complement it was meant to be. God bless.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you! : ) I'm glad I'm not too boring and appreciate every kind word. All the best to you.

[@blackirish781]

I automatically like your videos before even watching them because you are always so well spoken and informative. To top it off, from my experiences with you, you are a genuinely good person too.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I am humbled by your kind words. I appreciate them and you.

[@zh3401]

Never fear being to rudimentary when explaining a topic, as is said "you do not know what you do not know. Excellent presentation, another one take wonder!

[@davewinter2688]

Hey it's me again Mike. Another fine video, now four years old, that I just discovered. It's amazing how many shooters don't understand the basic formula energy equals 1/2 mass times velocity squared. I'm kind of a "all things in moderation" guy. I have a lot of different center fir e rifles with bore diameters from 0.224 to 0.458. Only one is labeled a "magnum". Over the last 50 years or so I've taken more deer with my 270 Winchester than anything else, but like my medium bores (35 Remington, 358 Winchester, 35 Whelen) especially depending on where and in what kind of terrain I'm hunting in. I recently acquired a 9.3x62 Mauser from a gentleman who grew up hunting in Africa. He pointed out to me the merits of the 7x57 Mauser using the 175 grain bullet for the larger heavy framed antelope varieties. I was skeptical because I haven't used any heavier than a 140 grain bullet at around 2700 fps in my 7x57. When I looked at the latest Nosler reloading manual it showed that both their 175 grain Acccubond Long Range and Partition bullets can be driven at over 2500 fps. The Acccubond bullet shoots a little bit flatter, but when sighted dead on at 250 yards, neither one rises more than an average of about 3.75 inches above the line of sight at 150 yards before it starts to fall and is only down about 4.5 inches at 300 yards with an average of about 1800 ft lbs remaining energy. That's a pretty good combination of mass and velocity. Not too hot, not too cold! Just right. Should be good for anything up to Elk or Caribou sized game at reasonable, ethical shooting distances without excessive recoil in a rifle that's not too heavy to carry. Happy hunting boys and girls!😊

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Dave - the 7x57 is probably my favorite cartridge - does everything without a fuss. I guess that means the 7MM-08 and .280 and 7x64 must be great as well - and they are. Thanks for writing.

[@HaydenMMorrison]

I really appreciate you making this video! In the short time of watching this video, I definitely have grew a better understanding.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That's the greatest reward for me : ) Thank you for being here.

[@normanmallory2055]

Very good , well explained.. Sometimes after 56 years into this adventure of Handloading and hunting , Bullet making I get lost and have to look in one of 32 books I own.. This is well done , now here is an idea as I did that myself some years ago and some said with all the ctgs laying down they were hard to see , so I stood them up.. My experience with high velocity small Bore ctgs throughout the years , say my 22/250 or my Weatherby .224 on steel plates , they melt the steel and burn through .. Pretty amazing when I felt after I cut the bullets in half to look at Bullet jacket thickness which is like paper thickness , weights starting at 55 grains, 58 , and 60 grains.. My 30 Herrett ctg with bullets from 125 grain to 190 grain do quite well on steel, the one bullet with best results is the 150 Nosler Partition.. The Herrett ctg is the same case as the 7.62X 39 except it's rimmed.. It's a wildcat made from 30-30 brass...well done

[@zechnarwilliams8019]

Well said sir! 45-70 with hard cast lead is an answer for just about anything!

[@Tadders]

You did (in a roundabout way) a good job when describing the parameters and criteria for 'effective' loads in various situations. Thank you for the knowledge, man.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tadders - I try : ) Thankfully I have a patient audience. All the best to you.

[@corey8420]

I recently discovered your videos, I am hooked. Your videos are fantastic and my favorite gun channel by far. Thanks for all the videos.

[@plandsman5224]

Great video as always. Your channel deserves far more subscribers considering it's quality content.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you P Landsman.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thanks for this great presentation on the relationship between bullet mass and velocity.

[@betchalife]

Another great and informative video my friend! Even with the small scale testing I do with .22lr, the basic information I get from the ballistics can be applied to any caliber or cartridge. They have bullet weights from 60gr down to 29gr. I got a neat little 22lr reloading kit, and can play around with all types of bullets. Aguila makes a 60 grain .22lr cartridge they call the sniper subsonic. It's a very long bullet in a 22 short casing and is the same length as a standard .22lr. At 950fps advertised velocity, I get an average of 930 out of my 24" bbl test gun. I will tell you there is a world of difference when I shoot a squirrel with a 60gr lead solid round nose at 930fps versus a .22lr stinger 32 grain jacketed hollow point bullet at like 1500 fps. If you've made it this far my friend you should touch on this subject in a future video : The confusion around the acronym "BBL" which is used as an acronym for barrel. If you search it up the internet will tell you the acronym stems from the fact they used it for oil barrels and since it was commonly used for that it caught on in the firearms lingo. Which is not actually true. Any gunsmith worth his beans will tell you BBL stands for Bored Barrel Length. Which means the length of the barrel from the end of the muzzle to the start of the rifling grooves at the end of the chamber. Just thought it interesting! Cheers from Canada

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello! Thank you for your note. Somewhere in my channel is a video on Aguilla ammo - I love the 60 grain stuff - lifts varmints right off the ground! - as you likely know : ) Thanks for the BBL clarification idea!

[@jimb1947]

As always, your videos are outstanding.

[@22lrmarksman18]

That Ruger Hawkeye is one of my favorite firearms.

[@williamgoldston5803]

Very informative. I recently bought a bolt action 35 Whelen and I am very happy with it. Thanks.

[@valqueenofValhalla]

What a wealth of knowledge new favorite KZbin channel

[@kennethbailey2616]

When I was a kid I knew guys that used .222’s and .22 Hornets on deer. I never agreed with that philosophy but the guys I knew were excellent shots and did okay with them but certainly not the ideal deer round. Your videos ate excellent!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Kenneth - excellent comment - you bet : plenty of deer and bigger things have been killed with .22s - but why do that unless one has no other choice. Thanks for writing and your support.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thanks for the great overview of rifle cartridges. A friend was a fan of the Whelen and I didn't understand its advantages. I see that now. It's clear why our fighter aircraft use several 50 cal rounds.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point as usual Rich. 50 Cal. is a great equalizer : )

[@aaronbuckmaster7063]

Oh my goodness. I was a Deputy Sheriff for many years. You wouldn’t believe the difficulties I had teaching trainees components of ammunition and firearms when processing crime scenes and logging evidence properly. I used to want to pull my hair out. With 22’s I’ve had a lot of fun with the 223SSM. I have the light and heavy Winchester Mod 70 rifles. The light rifle has the smallest little control feed action you’ve ever seen. They’re twisted 1 in 10 so you can stabilize from 40gr to 70 gr bullets well. It performs just like a Swift, but with a faster twist. It is a very easy rifle to carry around all day. For hunting, I don’t think there’s a better design than a partition or the German A or H frame style bullets. They just work.

[@rupertmcnaughtdavis3649]

Enjoyed seeing those distinctive Kynoch boxes, reminds me of the game ranch I used to go to as a youngster,there were always boxes of 9x 57 Mauser and 404 made by Kynoch.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Those were the days my friend, we thought they'd never end...I like the Kynoch boxes too - something about them.

[@jamesgreen7656]

You sir..are a wealth of knowledge and common sense too. That's not too common these days. .I enjoy your videos. .thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I am humbled by your words J wish and I am grateful that you are here. Thank you!

[@andrewthacker1389]

about a year ago I was flipping through a field and stream magazine from the 1920's with an ad for the savage model 99 and the then-new 250-3000 savage. It had a picture of a charging grizzly bear with huge teeth and claws and the ad read something like "you are being run down by a deadly grizzly weighing half a ton. Normally this would be a dire situation but you have a a savage model 99 in 250-300 savage! Nothing will stop a grizzly in its tracks like a bullet going 3000 feet per second!" I can't remember the whole thing but basically it suggested that a 250 savage is better for bears than a larger, slower bullet. Those were 87 grain cup and core bullets by the way. I wonder how many people tried it on grizzlies and were never heard from again. I guess they wouldn't have received many negative testimonies. I would like to find that magazine again, it was a pdf version online

[@floydteter4323]

What a great educational video. Have shared with my sons and several friends. Outstanding explanation. Thank you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

It is my privilege Floyd. Have a great weekend and all the best to your sons and friends!

[@hermit1249]

Always been a believer in mass over velocity. Had a Brno 375 H&H with a Ziess scope for years, big, heavy rifle, it was a nail driver. It loved 250gr and 270gr bullets. The thing was I knew that rifle, I could always 'feel' when the shot was right. If it didn't feel right I didn't pull the trigger. Know your rifle, I'm sure there're a lot of people out there who understand what I'm talking about. One thing I could never figure out though... 3 of us packed out an Elk on our backs for 22 miles, horns and all, plus our camping gear, through real ugly, steep, forest country in southern BC... on the way out we got into heavy discussions about what we could use a 10lb rifle for after we pull the trigger and the work begins. 22 miles later we were unanimous ... it's good for nothing.. doesn't even make a good walking stick! God, I miss those days :)

[@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888]

I don't know exactly when it became popular to hunt deer with the .223, but I did begin to notice its popularity as a hunting cartridge shortly after the panic buying of AR's during President Obama's term in office. My hunch is that quite a few people bought those guns and became bored shooting paper or whatever targets their range allowed. They then decided to go hunting, perhaps for the first time in their life, and decided that that the .223 they had was good enough to kill deer with (that would also conveniently avoid dealing with the significant other regarding the purchase of another gun). And of course the market had no problem jumping on the .223 hunting bandwagon in order to make a buck. What people need to recognize is that just because a caliber can be used and is pushed by the gun industry and media does not mean that it should be used

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Words of wisdom Trapdoor - you should write the laws. A .223 is a varmint cartridge - even if it can do more. When the .243 came out, many doubted the 100 grain bullets - some people still do. Anyway, your last sentence is what everyone should go by.

[@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thank you for the kind words USOG. It is my experience that when a person selects the right equipment for the task at hand things tend to be easier.

[@tbjtbj4786]

@@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888 ,I don't understand it eather. It been a on going thing in FL. To use 22 cf to hunt with and in tx. To from my understanding. One of there wildcats is the 22 tx. Trophy taker 6 mm rem necked to 22. . Here there there seem to be a growing trend to use the smallest think possible. I have even heard people talking of using the 17 hornet and the 204 Ruger. it's crazy the 25 acp would actually be leagle here. The fwc had just changed a bunch of our deer hunting laws. I called and beged them not to Chang our black powder law. It was 20 ga shotgun or bigger and a 40 cal. Rifle or bigger. They just dropped it to 30 Cal for the rifle or pistol.

[@trapdoorspringfieldmodel1888]

To my mind there are just so many great rifle and caliber combinations to pick from that I just don't see the need to play games with calibers that are dubious at best when it comes to hunting big game.

[@TeensierPython]

Pet peave is light calibers/gauge for inexperienced hunters. I understand shot placement is king, but the person is inexperienced and using a marginal round!

[@DMX-PAT]

You may want to stand the cartridges upright so you can see them better, also when talking about bullet and casings you may want to show what a bullet looks like after it makes contact with an object (ie mushroomed)... Great video, nice new intro. Keep it up!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good idea - will do - thanks.

[@jakeoutdoors9600]

Very informational and well thought out content as I have come to expect of your channel.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I appreciate your words Jake.

[@jefferywilliams7687]

Very well said. As velocity increases bullets have to get tougher. However, if bullet is to hard it goes clean thru with a small wound channel. Match bullet to rifle velocity, to game, to distance. good point about the Nosler Partition in a 22-250. When I teach Hunters Education Classes, I bring in different bullets that I have cross sectioned to show what you are talking about. Additionally, I killed my 1st deer in late 1960’s with a Remington Model 8, 35 Remington. It belonged to a friend of mine’s grandfather. I have recently acquired a Remington Model 81 in a 35 Remington and plan on taking a good Buck this year with it. This coming from someone who hunts with Weatherby Cartridges and 264 Winchester Magnum.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jeffery - Well....you and I may be the only two in a wide area. I'm thinking of taking my Rem 81 in 35 for deer as well. Over the years I noticed that all the long range cartridges and efficiencies certainly dropped game further away. As far as the meaning of it all; the hunt; the feelings in the forest - I'm fairly sure the early ways brought something that might, or might not be registered by the hunter - but they're there IMHO All the best to you.

[@jefferywilliams7687]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns when I was young, I could always be found at the gun counter vs. the toy aisle. I also bought a 444 Marlin. Great shape used rifle. It was just missing the front sight hood. I had an extra one in a part box. We are going to give it a try as well. I have a good spot to hunt in South Georgia and we have some very nice whitetail. I grew up ranching and hunting in West Colorado (Norwood area on top) SE New Mexico (Roswell to Ruidoso area) and West Texas. Killed my first whitetail stalking in a snow storm in West Texas (SW of Abilene) and killed him with the 35 Remington. Probably why I still care for hunting out of stand very much.

[@roadrunner7828]

That 30-06 round looks more like a 35 Whalen. Do you have a rifle that shoots the 500 nitro Express?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi - RR - I sold it. Stupid me. I had a double. And you're right - that loading has a different looking bullet for sure. I'll double check - maybe I got the boxes mixed up.

[@fifieldgerald4316]

I thought it looked more like a .35 caliber too.

[@denverwynn4]

I love your stuff keep it coming. Thank you. I did wonder about the 30-06 cartridge as well, the shoulder size was the giveaway for me. If in fact it is the case, no pun intended, we all make mistakes!!! And I’m no expert. Thanks again!

[@jamesgolby9699]

Good video, shot a lot here in the U.K with the Rem.17 interesting but needed constant cleaning. Rem.22-250 very good but because of our fire arms law winchester .243 is min for deer in England. I had the opportunity to shoot an H&H double in .360 and that was good for under 2"group at 50yds with 18"penetration in a pine log. I think one big difference is that here shooting a running animal would be frowned upon so exact bullet placement with a .22 center fire or 6mm is all thats needed and with less room to throw large caliber bullets about you cant snap shoot with a .350 and rely on the large caliber to get you out of trouble if you make a less than perfect shot. When I was young and edged on by my brother .410 Long shot shells were loaded with soft lead bullets and fired from a rusty folding .410. It was devastating on the fallow deer and good for 100yds. As an aside I load my .243 with some 48grns of 4831 s.c. and 80grn sieras. It belches flame from its 22" barrel and leaves a thunder clap that rattles window but the accuracy is so good, I no, I should be using H380 and give my powder to the 50 B.M.G guy . There seems to be little difference in accuracy between my hand loads and Federal premiums with 80grn S.P. It won't hit a dinner plate with Winchester. If your still awake,I enjoyed the videos.

[@aynjeleyes]

Yep always use the right rounds for your game but there is always that one you ask, what do you use to Hunt deer .300 WM Hunt buffalo .300 WM Hunt boar .300 WM Hunt rabbit .300 WM Their is always one.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahahaha - that's the spirit Cato! Good choice.

[@adrianlagrange4571]

Please! Don’t hunt buffalo with a 300wm 375 h&h and up only

[@paulsouth4794]

@@adrianlagrange4571 ... why not 300wm with a 220gr bullet ? No good ?

[@TjBruce817]

you may just get to dunk your piece of bread in the rabbit stain though...lol, won't be much left to eat.

[@grendelgrendelsson5493]

That was very informative, thank you. My brother was metal detecting on a beach near where he lives in Norfolk, eastern England, and turned up a large number of 50 cal rounds. We think these were there because the US 8th Air Force was based mainly in our area and when a damaged aircraft was on it's way home, the crews would throw out anything to reduce weight and keep the 'plane in the air and once the British coast was close enough, out would go ammo and guns.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

So interesting - all the secrets and ways of war; all held somewhere - sometimes by sand.

[@Greyzonecompliant]

I have read somewhere that the us army is going for 6.8mm next. I might be wrong. But it would prove your point. There is i sweetspot between 22(5.56) and 30(7.62). Weight vs velocity

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes Mr. - many believe the sweet spot is .270. Europe likes 7mm. I like the 6.8 spc - which is .270 but that round seems to be fading.

[@Greyzonecompliant]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns some hunters here in Sweden use the 270 win. But it never caught on with the 6.5x55s everywere. And the relative short distance hunting in the swedish woods. Does not let the 270 have its chance to shine. 30-06, 308 is the most used cartridges now on moose.

[@snowballcorners]

The 7 mill ballistic coefficent has always been superior to that of the 270, compare the 270 Winchester to the 280 Remington superior performance by the 280 due to better performance of the 7 mill round both rounds using a necked down 30-06 case.

[@pseudopetrus]

Sounds expensive!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Brilliant.

[@paulfixdivcars5614]

The 222/223 became popular in Scandinavia in the 70-80’s for driven shooting, in particular roe deer....nothing bigger!! Later we started to shoot, fallow/red dear and boar on the same day/shoot....the 223 was left in the gun cupboard and everyone went back to 6,5x55 , 7mm rem mag, 308win and the most popular 30-06 . For elk shoots we use 30-06 , 300 win mag, 9,3x62/74 and 8x57js ....these are the most common.

[@dimitarhadjov3748]

I just love videos about the fundamentals!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Glad to hear it Dimitar!

[@paulsimmons5726]

In my experience, whitetails and similar sized animals all react the same to 270Win and 30-06 rounds, period. 40lb and less targets will fall to the fast 22's but I'm more confident in the standard calibers. Having said that, I like the 7x57 and 257 Roberts for the lower recoil, I'm not hunting gigantic beast, just deer! Perfect closing, 50BMG - If that doesn't solve the problem, nothing will! My quote for the day!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Paul - I agree - one could own a .270 or 30-06 or .308 (where allowed) and never want for much or anything else. Your 40lbs and less idea sounds about perfect to me. With so many excellent and proven cartridges of adequate power in really nice rifles I can't make sense of the increasing numbers of people that seem to be using .22 cal. for deer.

[@paulsimmons5726]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns - Yeah, just because you "can" do something doesn't always make it a great idea. Take care!

[@jaydee1532]

30-06 is versatile ...great choice of bullet mass (grain)

[@nicholassteel5529]

Well done. Watched it right to the end. Thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Nicholas! Not many do. I can be pretty boring ; )

[@DMX-PAT]

Really enjoyed the ping pong ball/ golf ball analogy. I was thinking along those exact lines recently and I like to thing a 308 is similar to a baseball, where as a 223 is more like a golf ball. It's very simple to hit a golf ball very far with a golf club due to it's mass and size. Yet a baseball is significantly heavier and harder to through farther, hence the bat and amount of energy required to send it farther...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect. I like the golf ball : ) - or baseball is even better.

[@nicolemcgaw4858]

You consistently make great videos. Thank you

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Nicole!

[@kennethbailey2616]

The Russian 7.62 is a .311 whereas our 7.62 is a .308. Learned that the hard way when I bought a bunch of cheap .308 bullets to load for an SKS. I ended up giving those bullets away because I had no use for them since I use much better bullets for my M1A. :) Love your videos.

[@JPsaysno]

Great content! Well put together presentation. Thx JP

[@chrischiampo7647]

Thank You Great Information Great Examples Excellent Channel By Far One Of My Favorites Keep Up The Great Work My Friend😀😊🇺🇸

[@aus71383]

Impact velocity and the different terminal effects that it causes is worth considering too. 2300 fps and higher causes significantly more damage - there is a cavitation effect as the tissue and fluids are compressed and decompressed at a rate fast enough to burst cellular membranes. Fluids can briefly become gasses due to the decompression - this combined with a tumbling bullet is a major factor in wounding. For hunting, through and through penetration is desirable to facilitate tracking. If the goal is just to kill or wound, complete penetration is less necessary. Conversely, if the goal is to conserve as much meat as possible, having an impact velocity below 2300 fps will help with that. I shot a black bear at

[@Sensorium19]

That is fascinating. Thank you for taking the time to explain your experience.

[@aus71383]

@@Sensorium19 My pleasure.

[@rickbattle5706]

Great video. The idea is to make a clean kill for hunting. Normally, most experts will suggest a round that can produce 1200 foot pounds @ 1800 FPS for deer as an example. Take the weight of the animal into consideration. So you study the distance and bullet ballistics to get the right one. Obviously, a longer distances you need more mass to carry the distance at the proper velocity. Well done with the ping pong ball and gold ball. Great examples.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Rick - You describe a solid way to go. I had some messages from Europe and particularly Germany with specific minimum power levels and maximum range shots. Maybe we'll have more details soon. Best, Mike

[@russellmiller212]

Excellent video. So, the golfball would have retained velocity at greater distance due to greater mass characteristics (sectional density)...I always used the example of a baseball compared to a plastic woofle ball, but I like your analogy better, and wish I used that example more often in explaining this to folks. Although, I'd like to clarify this other topic with you sir: The .308 Winchester cartridge was actually adopted by the military, not created. It was produced as a slightly smaller base cartridge with the military designation: 7.62X51mm NATO. Originally, the .300 Savage was under consideration, but due to the unacceptably short case neck, not selected. That is when the. 308 Winchester became the legendary crew served weapon and special purpose anti-personnel cartridge known by the short name: 7.62 NATO. The 5.56X45mm NATO was created specifically for the military and later offered commercially under the caliber designation: .223 Remington. Although, the cartridges are identical in all aspects except the amount and/or type of propellant used in the hotter 5.56 NATO. Most military ammunition will show evidence of annealing at the shoulder. The other unique characteristic are primer pockets that require reaming if the brass is reloaded and used commercially. Finally, I should mention that the magnificent 50BMG cartridge is in fact a scaled up 30-06 Springfield.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Russell! I had no idea. Very informative post. All the best to you.

[@russellmiller212]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns An important detail, which was not included in the initial reply for the purpose of remaining on topic, is the chamber designation for 5.56X45mm vs. 223 Remington. There is a significant differance which should be considered when deciding whether or not to use NATO mil-spec ammunition. Most commercial firearms used with 223 Remington ammunition are actually chambered and marked for the 5.56NATO cartridge in addition to or in place of .223. This means there is 'freebore' or a lengthening of the chamber between the ogive of the bullet and the rifling lands for the purpose of safely tolerating chamber pressures of military ammunition. There are rifles specifically chambered for 223 that may or may not be able to safely tolerate the pressures of military grade ammunition. That would be the reason why it is advisable not to use NATO spec ammo in such rifles. One high quality DPMS (Colt HBAR clone / match rifle) I was using last summer comes to mind. That firearm seemed to have performed best with 5.56 NATO, although it was specifically chambered for 223 Remington. The rifle indicated no functional issues and there wasn't evidence of unsafe pressure on any of the expended casings. Although, premature headspace wear and/or damage within the chamber can only be detected by gauge, laser and/or microscope. Perhaps it would be capable of shooting competitive scores across the course up to or exceeding 3,000 rounds; barrel quality is obviously a significant consideration, and the total number of rounds did not exceed 120, 60 of which were NATO, 45-50 fired continously in one session. (clarification on National Match course of fire: 2 categories, match and service rifle; service rifles are mil-spec externally but built to provide match grade accuracy, durability and longevity. NRA // Inter-Service Nat'l Match 200 - 600 yard course of fire)

[@409rommel]

Super video, good information. I have to take one exception though...... No .220 Swift on the table??? The greatest varmint / predator cartridge ever developed😉. I was pleased to see the 22.250👍. And yes, they are not deer cartridges... A great rivalry in varmint cartridges is the 22.250 and the Swift. Both are great but the Swift got alot of bad press in the early days because of deer hunters using it.. That would be a good video, the saga of the Swift and the .22 Varminter...

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Oh my goodness - great idea! I used to take both to the range and see what's what. I always liked the Swift better; partly because of all the fuss over barrel erosion and the early glamour. I didn't notice much wear - certainly no ghastly coughing up of lands and grooves as some reported. I'll make that video - thanks again.

[@409rommel]

USOG Super! Yea, I like em both. The 22.250 was the first I shot, but the Swift soon followed. Have both now. Took the Swift out last time I went calling.. Also the .225 Winchester..😂😂. Short lived, especially when Remington standardized the 22.250. It was over for the .225 Winchester after that...Great videos “Tucker”

[@frankwebster2876]

Now that was an amazing video,some stuff that I didn't know.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Frank - glad you're here.

[@stevenkennedy4130]

The Browning will solve any problem...love this!!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Steven - you bet - the Browning is the problem solver.

[@MFitz717]

I just picked up an old school varmint/target gun with an unertl and I love it, is there any other comparable brands I'd like to set a 30-06 up with one. Also is there a way to date the scope? Thank you and keep up your awesome work on the videos

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Please send me the model and magnification of the Unertl - there were some magnificent Lymans that might like - and Bausch & Lomb as well. I'll know more from the details on your Unertl.

[@MFitz717]

USOG it's a 1 1/2" target, 10x. I looked it up through a unertl catalog I have that I believe is from the 60s-70s. It does not say anywhere on it, just J Unertl opt. Co. And 36430. It shoots very nice and the glass is very clear. I had a 2" group of 13 rounds at 100 yards but I think I can get it closer. I believe it's not new than 1962 as it's mounted on a Remington 722

[@stoneyisland2611]

Great overview and thanks ...Subscribed 👍

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

Have you seen/heard of a Ithaca M66? I came across one that was a 20 gauge slug gun variant. Kinda reminded me of a DeerSlayer barrel in a single shot version. Has a lever to break open like a lever action. 1st time I have seen one. Not sure how good they are and if it would be a good one to snag. Not on my wishlist or anything, but thought was interesting, and I like the old m37 DeerSlayers. If its there long enough, never know, might try to get it.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey - great shotgun alert! Those Ithaca 66s are something. I only fired one a few times. I like the lever action single shot idea a lot. Hard to find these days and in slug gun - well - I didn't know that model existed.

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Not sure but receiver appeared to be aluminum maybe, and had some finish wore off but looked not too bad other than that. The lever might be aluminum too, had some black finish wore off. Yeah it had a orange front sight like a deerslayer.

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns 765-573-5877 [e-mail] This is where that M66 slug gun is if you are interested. It was still there yesterday. Was $199

[@jameskent4453]

Not stupid at all much more intelligent than most of us, thank you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks James - I try. : )

[@georgelaliberte1053]

Great video 👌

[@Oneofthetwelve]

Good evening to all the viewers and to USOG. Thank you for the video. Recently I fired 120 rounds of Winchester brand 3030, brand new cartridges, from my Marlin 336 of North Haven origin. Yesterday I was reloading when I found two cases that partially split at the case-neck. I was quite surprised by that. I have other cases that I have reloaded at least 5 times with not a single reject due to stretching or other issue. I wish I could post pictures for all of you to look at them. Should I be disappointed? Also I inspected the chamber and barrel again. All seems in perfect condition. Have a great day. Charles.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Oneofthetwelve - sometimes there is a batch of brittle brass. I've had that happen to me many times in different cals. - mostly .308 though - the military stuff sometimes is so old or there might have been changes in chemistry. If the chamber neck in the Marlin was oversize than more ought to have split. I guess it could be slightly oversize though - which would be evident on the cases that didn't split. Main thing is safety and it sounds like everything is as it should be. As far as disappointment goes - I'm not sure - I guess it depends on one's threshold for disappointment. I'm probably a poor benchmark as even when everything goes wrong and cartridges fail and guns don't work - I'm still not disappointed - I find everything interesting; I must be missing that gene : ) Funny life. I hope you have no further neck splits though - that isn't supposed to happen. Sorry I can't be of more help.

[@jimf1964]

I agree completely about small vs big, especially for hunting. Small fast bullets cause a lot of damage to the meat, where small fast bullets make a nice big hole, with little meat damage. Weight may drop more, but holds velocity better, and better terminal power/penetration. I think people are going for faster, smaller, because they shoot flatter, and they don't want to bother to learn how to shoot. What do you think of the 9.3x57?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jim - I like the 9.3x57 a lot. It has a nice balance of bullet mass and velocity sufficient for moose etc... and recoil is not too bad. People seem to buy these and re-chamber to 9.3x62 - which can be quite impressive - recoil wise also.

[@jimf1964]

USOG yes, I've seen a lot of those 9.3x62's. Sounds like something for grizzlies, or to dare your friends to shoot. They have them at a store I shop at that gets lots of older European guns, and the 9.3x57's are pretty cheap too. I want one for bear, though since I have an 8mm mauser I don't really need one, and I also figure I can get a pretty decent gun for cheap, since they aren't too popular, and I think you have to pretty much be a reloaded, or pay a fortune for bullets. Thanks for your input. My mauser, btw, is a beaten, ole, pitted , sad looking thing, with the ugliest stock you've ever seen, but at my indoor range I put 4 bullets through a hole smaller than the tip of my thumb at 50m.

[@oldgoat1890]

@@jimf1964 Big, heavy bullets cause a lot of meat loss too if you are off a little and hit something solid. I shot at a deer running away from me with a 8x57 220 grain bullet. It dropped so fast I thought I had hit it in the neck. You had to brush the hair away to see the little blue hole behind the shoulder. When I rolled it over there was a hole through the middle of the chest you could have put a coke can through. Imagine a broadside shoulder shot. I shot a running deer(They don't want to stand still for me)through the shoulders with a .308 Win. Power Point. Went through both shoulders, bone chips everywhere. What a mess. Bullet construction is probably more critical than size.

[@jimf1964]

Old Goat I totally agree that bullet construction/quality and the appropriate choice of bullet is essential. Generally speaking, a large, slower moving bullet will tend to cause less meat loss than a super fast one though. The high speed causes a lot of hydrostatic shock. That's how a small bullet manages to still be effective. But a large, slower moving bullet, tends to just punch a big fat hole, with much less shock. The large hole means it'll bleed out really fas, without the need for lots of damaged internal tissue.....generally speaking. I'm sure you already know this, just trying to make sure my point is clear. I love my old 8x57 Mauser too, but it is a lot of power for deer. Especially if you load it hot. That's why I'm thinking of getting a 9.3x57, and one day I'd like to do muzzle loaders. For now it's shotguns or my Mauser. Good luck hunting, and don't hit any more shoulders! 🙂

[@oldgoat1890]

@@jimf1964 How about a 7x57? It is my favorite and probably most accurate deer rifle. I really lightened it up and it slaps you pretty hard. With an 18" barrel it really cracks, but it has done me well over the years.

[@brianlee6849]

The boxing analogy is perfect! Boxing has weight limits for a reason middleweights or much faster but they could never compete with a heavyweight. I think a really good cartridge for speed and energy is the 375 H & H Magnum it has the trajectory of a 30-06 with much more energy behind it. And it also happens to be the minimum 4 dangerous game in Africa but it can still be used for medium game here in America. Thanks great discussion.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree Brian - the .375 is a universal cartridge - it does everything well - save for varmints.

[@brianlee6849]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Thanks for your reply. I am very interested in purchasing 375 H & H Magnum my dilemma is which rifle? Pre 64 model 70 current model 70 CZ 550 , Mountain rifle , Weatherby Mark V ? I love that the trajectory and velocity it still carries enough velocity and energy to ethically kill at 500 yards pretty much anything from a white tail to an African safari. Would you consider doing a comparison video with your thoughts on the 375 H & H Magnum being such a versatile cartridge? What would your choice be old vs new? My budget is about 3, 000 including scope. Maybe a little more if it was a sub-moa 375 which from my research is very difficult. Most of the reviews I've read even the best 375s are 1 to 2 MOA range. Thanks I really appreciate your knowledge.

[@obbyjep7597]

Its neat a 22 250 and a hot 44mag out of a rifle have about the same fpe, differnt way of getting it and from my playing around way differnt effect. Yhanks again for a informitive vid

[@normanmallory2055]

In 1972 I started using 22/250 and my Weatherby.224 for deer and elk also black bear each year with great success.. Varmint ctgs they are and I do not recommend in any way anyone should hunt big game with either one.. With perfect shot placement angle I would take the shot, if not I let it pass.. The damage was nothing like-nothing I ever seen done.. You may ask why? Well I followed the famous gunsmith P. O. Ackley's theory of extreme high velocity and small Bore and his hunting adventures using 17, 20 and 22 caliber .. I had to find out and every season I went into the hunting field to hunt.. I will say that my two largest blacktail deer I ever killed in my hunting life was done using the 22/250. From 1976 with my 5 point to 2019 I have not taken a larger rack.. I should get a lot of replies over this but I just wanted to put this out there.. It can be done if shot angle is perfect along with perfect bullet placement. Thanks..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

All sound reasoning and experience Norman - a pin will stop a heart if you can get it there.

[@normanmallory2055]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Yes it will , i have seen videos of hunters using blowguns that use steel darts to take black bear .. very interesting, myself i would never go that far or every do that .... Of course i don't want your readers thing i would hunting Africa or Alaska with my 22/250 or Weatherby .224 as i would not even try to do that with any bullet in that caliber .. I will say for the Pacific Northwest i have had great success .. It was a journey that i started on every season , it did make a few jaws drop when my hunting partners watched , i was not trying to convert any 300 win mag user or 30-06 user that the two cartridges i used were big game cartridges because they are not .. I just wasn't one to follow our forefathers all the way as they took moose, elk, deer, bear with their 30-06 rifles for season after season it was proven no question there , i wanted to do it different ..

[@erichuntter2437]

Learnt a lot on that video . I use 222 and found it lacking the knock down power so I end up going for 243 not had any problems 👍

[@adamkadir3803]

I wouldn't know where to begin with my experience with 308s, and regardless of how much fun I've had with larger cartridges (one day, I will own a 408 ctc), my favourite cartridge is *still* the 7.92x57is/8mm Mauser. There's nothing that a hot 196gr won't drop, modern 8mm bullets with decent B.Cs go far and go well...and it's just great. Such an imposing cartridge.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Adam - I know what you mean. You won't find a better cartridge. I like it very much. Sometimes the availability of ammo seems to influence which cartridges we own and like - even if that isn't the best reason.

[@tuomaspaunonen8353]

I like - so clear imformation

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Tuomas!

[@marcoceccarelli6415]

Absolutely excellent.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Marco

[@pseudopetrus]

50 cal, if that doesn't solve problems! Great video, I have watched it many times!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks my friend - glad it's a good one.

[@MTwoodsrunner]

Very good points...i believe for hunters, ethics should be top among priorities when considering and choosing Calibers, as Ruark states clearly in his book title "Use Enough Gun"...sadly i see ammo manufactures now touting the .223 as an acceptable Deer cartridge...well maybe, if your Annie Oakley...i place this type of reckless mindset into the same category as those so called hunters taking six hundred yard shots on Deer...atvb

[@TheFedster18]

An excellent video, but I was under the impression the jacket of FMJ bullets is copper, and in some cases the core is steel? have I misunderstood?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Federico - you are correct; I use steel incorrectly - I meant FMJ. I am full of flaws but had the same idea in mind - no expansion or very little.

[@Gungeek]

lots of 7.62x54r surplus has steel jacketed bullets :)

[@crkerriklein]

The Russians use a lot of rounds that are steel jacketed. But they are a copper washed steel jacketed lead core bullet. 7.62 x 39, 5.45 x 39, 223 Rem, or 7.62 x 54r.

[@Chriskelly19067]

Great explanation!

[@andor8635]

Great video learned a lot thank you.

[@brianlee6849]

Excellent! I couldn't agree more. I love the 7.62x39 excellent combination of energy Mass and not too much recoil. I also love the classic 30-30 for medium game. If I'm going after elk or anything bigger all use a 308. I under 300 Weatherby Magnum it's an incredible gun but I have to be honest I was never accurate with it because I was always flinching. LOL is more gun than I wanted. Enjoyed your video thank you.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Brian - I've seen so many misses with magnums; I think most people are better off with a 30-06 or .270 or something like that - and if things don't go according to plan - just pass on the super long shots and try to get closer or wait for another set up. I also had a .300 Weatherby - and I had the same experince as you. There is no shame in not liking recoil. As my friend said "It is like getting punched in the head. I don't like that." It was very funny at the time - but still true.

[@brianlee6849]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Yes definitely. I do have a H&R 30-06 and I am very accurate with it. I only have a 4 power scope on it I have been thinking about upgrading it what do you think? Also what is your opinion on the 7. 62 x39? I've been thinking about buying the mini 30? Thanks for your reply you have great information. I'm going to subscribe to your Channel. Thank you

[@worddunlap]

I been a bit ill and missed some of your videos. Great presentation. I use similar nomenclature . Powder is propellant, the bullet is the projectile. The primer I also use the term primer for but it is also the initiator. I only do this to keep it all strait (to me) and when explaining it to others. I'm not anal about it like the 'clip vs mag or gun vs rifle' nazis but it is just a preference.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I like that : initiator - sounds more advanced somehow. I'll try it on. Thanks!

[@davidissitt7718]

A good lesson many thanks My parker hale uses federal .270 130 grain hell of a round but seems to be going out of fashion ! Not sure why 6.5 seems to be new boy on the block Regards David in Somerset

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi David - I still view the .270 with the 130 grain bullet as the closest thing to a "perfect" hunting cartridge. The 6.5 is great and comes and goes - but the .270 is legend and near the top of sales since it was introduced. People just don't talk about it - like milk. Best to you. Mike

[@WILDBOYZ]

What is your favorite bullet weight for a 308 with a 20 inch barrel for deer hunting? Also what type of bullet would be the best? Thanks!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Andrew - I usually choose the 150 grain Winchester Ballistic Silver Tip for all barrel lengths. If handloading I use many different bullets - Noslers for hunting.

[@WILDBOYZ]

USOG I’ve used 180 grains for 18 years and have had good luck with them but wasn’t sure if I should go lighter weight for more speed like everyone keeps telling me I should. My deer rarely drop in their tracks so I was just curious your thoughts if more speed would put them down faster? Thanks!

[@WILDBOYZ]

USOG My deer usually run 50 yards before they topple over.

[@rg3412]

Great video but you should use a lapel mic to improve sound quality

[@prevost8686]

The 6.5 Grendel would make an excellent military rifle round. Guys are achieving amazing accuracy in AR based rifles.

[@22lrmarksman18]

I love that intro!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you !

[@DJbishop666]

What cartridge would you feel is the most balanced for dangerous large predators such as a brown bear? I would feel undergunned unless I had a .500 or above caliber rifle of some sort

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello - Many people use the .375 H&H; others the .338 Winchester Magnum. In .50 Cal the selection is limited and trajectories suffer in that cal. unless you use something really powerful such as the .50 BMG. A friend of mine who passed away not long ago hunted grizzlies for years with a .358 Norma Magnum - he had nothing but good to say about that cartridge. Getting back to your question - if I wanted absolute certainty the .375 H&H is proven, has world of power and the physical size of the cartridge in hand inspires confidence. Please write again.

[@cc-fn3mc]

Thriwing a ping pong ball and golf ball are perfect analogy!

[@littlewoody5539]

You talked me out of 243 win for deer lol 308 win barrel coming for my encore rifle .

[@rustyshackleford17]

End of the day, I tend to side on more mass when given the chance. They tend to have better terminal ballistics. Of course, there is a point of diminishing returns and then you have to up the powder charge.

[@sartainja]

Rusty Shackleford Is Nancy still have migraines and being treated by John Redcorn?

[@jimb7710]

Great video, thank you

[@MegaBoilermaker]

You should know that Lawyers and Journalists are experts on everything !

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

: ) hahaha - yes indeed.

[@abcertweld]

Yet what you have forgotten and many do is the use of hollow point and polymer tip bullets. Where you can have a smaller bullet of mass with higher velocities and still have the same if not more kinetic energy of a larger round, because the energy is dumped in the animal rather than in the tree behind the animal. Just one man's practical perspective. That being said like I always say "use the right tool for the job".

[@johnkendall6962]

In a perfect world yes but the world is not perfect . On paper the 22-250 can have as much energy as the 45-70 but if i'm charged by a bear I would feel much safer trying to stop it with the 45-70. On thin skinned broadside shots small very fast bullets can be spectacular , until you hit the shoulder bone at a slight angle and just get a surface wound.

[@abcertweld]

john kendall Well that goes back to what I always say "use the right tool for the job" LOL That being said a .223 62grHP will destroy a shoulder and the lungs. I have witnessed the damage myself, also realize the.5.56/.223 was designed to kill 200lbs. men, and for some reason people don't think it can handle a whitetail deer. That being said I typically use a .243, 6.5 Creedmoor, or my deer slayer 12ga. during rifle season.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Excellent reminder - and so long as that equation works and the bullet opens up in the animal and the energy is deposited there : presto - they can be dead standing. If anything goes wrong though - the results can be quite different. I like the Brenneke TIG and TUG bullets - they seem to expand , deposit energy and drive on through. I have never had a failure. Thanks for writing and the valid points.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes John - well put - I like the 35 Whelan and cartridges that have the horsepower to get the job done. A bigger bullet does not have to be perfect to do almost everything. Smaller bullets have to be near perfect, distances near perfect and placement is critical. Example - I shot at a broadside deer that turned as I fired - the bullet entered the left rear haunch and traversed the entire body - and I found the bullet under the skin of the right shoulder and low. A lighter bullet would likely have just stopped in the haunch.

[@abcertweld]

USOG SMH sorry but exactly how slow and how far was the deer to hit them in the butt. I've been deer hunting since I was 16 and I am now 45 and there is no way a deer can turn that fast within a couple hundred yards especially when a bullet is at 2000fps or fast. It is mathematically impossible. That being said as long as you hit a deer in the chest cavity it will die even with a smaller bullet given it is a hollow point. Example A 243 80gr. copper BTHP drops a deer were it stands, because of the amount of energy produced from the HP and velocity. I speak from experience I have with just that combo only dropped 32 bucks ranging from 3yr. old 6pt. to 7yr.old 14pts. I've been hunting in WV a long time and everyone in my family are great shots. Like I've said before use the right tool for the job, but also accuracy and shot placement are equally important. Most people need to get up from the bench and practice off hand shooting from what I see nowadays. Off hand shooting is becoming less and less with tree stands which I don't hunt from. I stalk my deer, but one day I'll get to old and have to sit and wait, but until then I'll be stalking the mountains for deer and dragging them back. I did like the video I just disagree with some things and that's OK, because that's what makes the world great, if everyone agreed it would be boring. LOL

[@kennethbailey2616]

My fellow Montanan, Elmer Keith always said slow and heavy was better than fast and light. I think one reason he felt this way was because in his time the bullets weren’t nearly as well-made as what we have these days.

[@mohammadmehdi8711]

Nice video and really great info as always just wanted to know what you think of the 300 H&H ? Thanks and best regards Romeo

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Romeo - my favorite .300 magnum. I had several .308 Normas, countless .300 Winchester Mags, and .300 Weatherbys and some wildcats - I like the H&H best. Best to you.

[@zacharyroach1990]

my first rifle that I bought was a yugo m48, 150 grain bullet going 3000 fps. how is that for flat trajectory and good bullet weight.

[@Wild_Bill_RC]

Great vid! I also agree that mass wins over, but it’s also going to way you down in battle. That’s where the 556 shines.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great point Wylde Bill - the weight of ammo; the weight of war - burdens to bear for sure.

[@asimseth1927]

I have read it was in The Hague Convention of 1899 that expanding bullets were prohibited for use my military globally

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Asim - I couldn't remember - Geneva or The Hague; I was hoping someone would correct me. All the best.

[@USAACbrat]

good job with a tough subject

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Tim - I hope by the end people can see what's what.

[@ghunt09]

35 Whelen is the most under rated, under valued caliber in the US.

[@KKKKKKK-sr1fz]

If I look at the numbers ... the .338 Lapua Magnum is one of the best from big to small ... it’s precise stable and heavy punch and quite fast for its size

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi KK - Impressive cartridge for sure.

[@Lou.B]

Great exploration of the dynamics involved from pin to target (and I'll watch it again)! Thank You!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Lou - I try

[@petestehouwer4662]

Love your vids thank you

[@normanmallory2055]

In my hunting lifetime I would like to list ctgs I have used for big game for 56 years now.. 30-30, .308 win, 6mm Remington, 22/250, .224 Weatherby, 30 Herrett, 6mm TCU, .44 magnum and the .357 magnum for over 50 years now.. I have never owned a 30-06,.270 or .243 win. Which are hugely popular where I live.. But the passed 10 years big game animals have become tougher they tell me as I see a number of .338 LaPua being now used.. Thanks..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hahaha Norman - I know what you mean - those body armor deer.

[@CaptainSwoop]

That was most informative and very helpful. Thanks. L & S'd

[@joelmorris60]

I've gone back to my trusted 25-06 and .270 for hunting in my state of North Carolina.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great cartridges Joel - nothing but praise for the 25-06 from me. One of the best in my experience.

[@hamm6035]

Thank you, a very good post! I have only 1 thing, you use the term bullet. Projectile is more accurate and is less confusing to those that grew up calling a cartridge a "bullet".

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good point - I struggled to keep that presentation together and fumbled more than may show...still - the producer said "go with it" - so it is up. I should have said more - I just couldn't hold my thoughts as well as I usually can. Thanks for watching and the valid point : )

[@Anon.Emouse]

Technically, a projectile can be anything. Eg. A stone from a slingshot. A bullet is a specific type of projectile.

[@pseudopetrus]

We all like a flat shooting round, and speed helps in that regard, but you need a bit of weight for bigger game. Often hunting cartridges strike a good balance, particularly the tried and true cartridges.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

100% - I tried to show that if there is a shift to really small projectiles - it probably isn't a good idea. You know : )

[@pseudopetrus]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Our little secret!