[M.T. Pockets]

Russ, I picked up a box of Core Lokt Ultra's and plan on trying them at my range this afternoon. The rifle is a Rem. 700 in .300 Win Mag. It shoots the regular Core Lokt's as good as it shoots any factory ammo. If the Ultra's shoot well in my rifle, I may take it elk hunting this fall. It's either this or Remington's 200 grain Swift A-Frame.

The Ultra is an upgraded Core Lokt where the lead is bonded to the jacket to prevent separation, I think the mid section of the jacket is heavier too. I avoid bullets that separate lead from the jacket like I avoid the IRS. From all I've heard & read, the Core Lokt Ultra is a good performer on large game.

The last elk I shot was with .30 cal. 180 grain Fail Safes. They killed him dead, and did what they said - comlete penetration from a tough angle, but they didn't seem to cause as much damage inside as other controlled expansion bullets. At the locker when we hung the quarters I found the entrance & exit holes (3 shots in the chest) and all were neat .30 cal holes on the way in and out. Kind of like a solid. I like an exit hole, but I also like some damage while it's in there (do I ask too much or what ???) Also, I mentioned 3 shots. The first shot killed him on his feet, but a dead elk can travel a long ways into some nasty stuff, or towards another hunter a half mile away with a tag in his pocket too, it's best to keep shooting til the animal is completely down.

You have many good choices, just try to eliminate bullets designed for deer & lighter game from the start and you'll be fine. I'd also stick with 180 grainers.

Out to 400 yards is as far as I'd be comfortable at shooting any unwounded animal, with ANY rifle, even the likes of an Ultra Mag. or one of the Weatherby's. And even then, only with a steady rest and a confirmed range from a rangefinder. Oh I know it can be done and is every year, but it's beyond my comfort range.



I talk too much, hope you find a load you and your rifle likes and you have an opportunity to try it on wapati this fall. Let us know.