From Squirrel to Moose: Matching Ten Cartridges to the Animal

A small-game round is not a moose round. Here is where each of these cartridges fits, and where it does not.

Pick the cartridge for the animal, then the bullet for the cartridge. Game rules differ by state, so check the minimum caliber and bullet requirements first.

The 22 Hornet is the gentle choice for small game and pests at modest range, with a mild report, and its loads are at 22 hornet ammunition.

The 22-250 is for longer shots at coyotes, woodchucks and other varmints. Its 55-grain loads are at 22-250 55 grain ammo.

The 25-06 is a flat-shooting favorite for deer and pronghorn, and polymer-tip loads like those at 25-06 polymer tip ammo are built for that work.

The 7.62x39 can take deer at short range where it is legal, though its trajectory drops quickly past about 150 yards. Its loads are at 7.62x39 ammo for sale.

Hunters in areas that require non-lead bullets will find FK BRNO's all-copper 7.5 FK loads at 7.5 fk copper ammo.

For elk-sized and larger game, heavier bullets matter. The 8mm Mauser's 180-grain loads, at 8mm mauser 180 grain ammo, have been used on big game for generations.

The 7.62x54R has also long been used on game in Russia and Eastern Europe, and its loads are at 7.62x54r ammo. The Hungarian 8x56R's soft points, at 8x56r soft point ammo, are the less familiar cousin.

The 9.3x72R, a rimmed European cartridge for break-action rifles, is a moderate-velocity big-bore round, and its loads are at 9.3x72r ammo for sale.

The 8.6 Blackout fires heavy .338-caliber bullets from an AR-style rifle, and its hunting loads, at 8.6 blackout hunting ammo, are meant for short-range work.

Match the bullet to the animal. A bullet that opens too fast on a large animal may not penetrate, and a bullet that is too tough may pass through a small one without expanding. Read the manufacturer's description of each load.

Then be honest about distance. Practice at the range you expect to shoot, and pass on shots beyond the one you can make cleanly and ethically.

Game regulations differ by state and species. Confirm the minimum caliber, bullet and energy rules that apply to your hunt, and confirm current stock and state shipping restrictions before ordering.