How to Choose the Right Rifle Cartridge for Your Hunting Needs - AERO PRECISION
At least once a week, someone is in my DM’s asking, “What’s the best caliber for hunting x animal?” Choosing the perfect rifle cartridge can seem like a complex task. With a plethora of options available, it’s essential to understand the factors that should influence your decision. This article aims to guide you through the process, helping you select the right rifle cartridge based on your specific needs and preferences. It is important to note that there is no perfect cartridge despite what the forums tell you; each one has pros and cons.
*Note: There are many projectile types, but in this article, I am discussing modern hunting bullets with high ballistic coefficients.
Understanding the Basics of Rifle Cartridges
Let’s take a moment to learn the basic terminology before we begin the selection process.
Caliber: This term refers to the diameter of the projectile (bullet). It’s commonly measured in inches or millimeters. For example, a 308 caliber bullet is .308”. It is also important to note that different cartridges can have the same projectile diameter. The 30-06, 300 Win Mag, and 30-30 all have the same .308” bullet diameter. What makes these calibers different from one another is bullet weight and the amount of powder used.
Casing: The casing is the brass container that holds the powder charge behind the projectile. Its shape and length vary depending on the specific cartridge desired.
Cartridge: The cartridge is the complete package – a bullet of a specific caliber housed in a casing. For example, a 300 Winchester Magnum is a .30 caliber bullet inside of a .375 H&H Magnum casing that has been modified to accept a .30 caliber projectile.
