.264/6.5 bullet for varmint hunting?

[freddyfour]

What do you guys use for a varmint bullet that isn't to hard on the pelts? I was thinking of just using AMax thinking I wouldn't have to big of an exit hole and because I have a bunch already loaded. But I wouldn't mind using something lighter that won't explode on impact.

 

[Baribal]

I personally use target holllow-pointed bullets of 140 grains. Most tend to make a "see-through" hole with minimal expansion or "explosive effect", unless you hit a big bone. I have a lot of A-Max bullets, but did not try it on Varmint yet.

 

[sorth]

I have been shooting coyotes with 115 VLD's out of my 6-284 this year, only indication of the out hole is a little bit of blood in the fur. In a 6.5 I would go with 130's or 140's, something that isn't going real fast.

 

[freddyfour]

Why not to fast?

 

[bcsteve]

Why not to fast?

Faster = more expansion = bigger hole

 

[freddyfour]

Do something like the VLD's expand much in such a small animal. Only ever shot paper with VLD's.

 

[Sask_Hunter]

Do something like the VLD's expand much in such a small animal. Only ever shot paper with VLD's.

I've had big holes withr the Berger .257 115 target VLD of of a 257AI and have had good results with the Berger 95gr hunting VLD of of my 243AI. I think any 120-140 out of a 6.5 won't do much damage to pelts. You might get the odd blow up but that can happen with any.

 

[madluk18]

I use 95 gr vmax, accurate enough to shoot gophers at 100 yards
Havent shot a coyote with them

 

[freddyfour]

OK thanks guys

 

[tylerjwitty]

95 vmax is my go to deer bullet

 

[freddyfour]

I want to stay away from the vmax, they are pretty rough on little furry creatures.

 

[Pathfinder]

I shot a wolf with a 140gr. Nosler Partition (was hunting moose at the time) it was pretty good on the fur.

 

[freddyfour]

I shot a wolf with a 140gr. Nosler Partition (was hunting moose at the time) it was pretty good on the fur.

Good to know, I have a few of them loaded up already as well.