Looking for input on ideas of the best Elk ammo for Ruger m77 Mark ii .280 bolt action. I usually use 150g Core-Lokt for whitetail and hogs but I am considering a different ammo so I lessen the effects of fragmenting bullets and damaging the meat but still want a good enough hit and capability to take down bigger game such as elk and mule deer.
Best Elk Ammo for Ruger m77 Mark ii .280
- Thread starter JHic
- Start date
JimP
Administrator
Look at the Barnes loadings along with the Federal Premium line of ammo with either Barnes or Nosler bullets.
I've used the Fed Prem 150 partition load Jim refers to. Works great for elk. They used to offer a 140 and 160 Nosler AB for 280, but don't anymore last I looked. Think they have a trophy bonded tip offering too, that would be good for elk. I often look here, usually they have a good selection. https://www.ableammo.com/catalog/discount-ammo-centerfire-rifle-ammunition-centerfire-pistol-ammunition-c-10480_14658.html
It will work fine for elk. Monolithic designs penetrate well and perform like a heavier regular lead core bullet, the key for them is adequate impact velocity. Used the 130 gr. TTSX out of a 270 for elk, the 140 in .284 has a little better SD, so will work as well or better.
HiMtnHnter
Active Member
badgerbob
Active Member
Slugz
Veteran member
Accubond, Partition and Barnes. Any will do just fine. The kids have knocked down plenty of elk with a 140g in these bullets at reasonable shot distances. I wouldn't worry about it. Just ensure you are not shooting further than the max shot distance for the bullet to perform as measured usually with FPS at impact.
Minimum for LR Accubond is 1300
Minimum for Partition /Accubond is 1800
Not sure Barnes we are a Nosler family
Minimum for LR Accubond is 1300
Minimum for Partition /Accubond is 1800
Not sure Barnes we are a Nosler family
shootbrownelk
Veteran member
The key with Barnes copper bullets is to go to a lighter bullet than you would a lead core bullet. Barnes and other copper/alloy bullets usually retain over 90% or more than their loaded weight. They don't come apart, so you can go with the 140 gr. with no problem. I use 150gr. Barnes TTSX bullets when I used to use 165 or 180's in my 30.06 and I plan on using their 130 gr. offering.
dan maule
Veteran member
I have used federal premium 150 portions very effectively on black bears. You won't be disappointed with the Barnes 140 either I would go with which ever one your gun shoots better.
I'd probably use the 140gr Accubond personally, I've used it in 264, 277, and 284 calibers with good results on several deer and an elk. The 150gr Swift Sirocco bullet is excellent too. I had a 22" 280 Ruger and couldn't get very good speeds out of the heavier bullets with accuracy. I'd stick to a 140 for that reason.
None of the suggestions you have got will steer you wrong, all good bullets.
None of the suggestions you have got will steer you wrong, all good bullets.