Discussion Forums

Joshua Mayfield

Ricardo,
I've played some with the 168 gr and 178 gr Amax bullets in 30-06 and am currently testing the 195 Gr. TMK. If my parameters and goals were what you've stated above for range and game weight I would be very comfortable with the 168 gr bullet. 2850 fps is right about where I found my best accuracy with it and that velocity was not difficult to attain.

I know BC numbers vary slightly from the Amax to the ELD-M but all I've read leads me to believe terminal performance will be the same. The 178 gr. bullet was also easy to find solid accuracy with in my rifle. I've taken whitetail deer with both bullets and I have no complaints.

I have not yet hunted with the TMK. Last time out I was getting sub-MOA accuracy at about 2700 fps and had one group at less than half MOA. I'm eager to try it out in the field.

If I had an unexpected opportunity to hunt tomorrow with a max range of 500 yards and game weights between 50 and 150 kg and had to pick which bullet to load this evening..... I might be most comfortable with the 178 gr. Amax but I'd feel alright with any of these three bullets. If I think about it again in an hour I might change my pick. I just don't think you can go wrong in terms of terminal performance. Hopefully, your rifle will make the ideal choice obvious. If a short magazine is a factor then the 168 gr Hornady makes sense.

I hope you'll share what you learn along the way. I'm always interested to hear what other guys learn with their 30-06. Good luck.