Bullet Performance Database

[dchum]

On a related note, I just used a 400 H&H shooting 400 gr North Fork bullets at 2400 fps on a Cape buffalo. The bull died very quickly. No bullets recovered as most went right through. One that was shot into the chest area was lost but it probably went into the rumen.

My take away is that this is too much power. Fortunately this was a lone bull, but there could have been issues if other buffalo were around. These are great bullets to load and shoot, so I need to back off the speed a little bit. I am going to try another powder that will hopefully have a sweet spot at a lower velocity.

There is a point that in some cases lowering the velo will actually cause the bullet to deform less and not “parachute” as much. So in turn seeing MORE penetration from less speeds. Can seem a bit backwards but thus is physics.

I know I have experienced it before. Just something to note.

But not sure how that plays out on 400gr 40 cal. as I have very limited big bore experience

 

[Pheroze]

Does anyone know the relative expansion difference between Swift A-frame and the equivalent North Fork? I ask because I believe the common wisdom is that the North Fork will penetrate further. So, I am wondering if the Swift frontal diameter is actually more