Hog Load for .223

utahpredator_7

utahpredator_7

New member
I'm going to be taking a trip with my cousin in the next month or so to go shoot some hogs. I'm going to shoot my 16" 1-9" twist AR in 223/5.56. Right now I have a ton of 50 gr. NBTs loaded. I would like to use these if I can, but am I going to be limited to CNS shots with these bullets? These hogs aren't particularly big or tough, but all the same I want to kill them outright. If this bullet isn't enough, where should I look next if I don't want to spend the $$ on TSX?
 
From my experiences shooting pigs in Texas ...........

Believe it or not, a 60 grain VMax will do the job. IF put in the proper place. Ear shots are quick kills. As are neck shots. But trying to put a VMax into the vitals (lungs, heart, etc) is a losing proposition. Just not enough penetration.

We found 60 grain Nosler Partitions to be probably the best "overall" bullet from the 223. They didn't kill as quickly as the VMax on ear-hole shots (not as violent expansion, perhaps?), but had the penetration required to get into the lungs and heart areas.

If this is your first time shooting hogs, I have 2 suggestions for you:

(1)Learn where their heart is. It rides WAY lower in their sternum than you might initially think. (2)Have an escape route (tree to climb), or a RELIABLE back-up partner with a gun. I've had 2 boars turn and charge, both from about 100 yards, and one of them took several rounds to the head before I got him stopped. (that's why I no longer use a .223 on them)

Have FUN!
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I don't think I would completely trust the vmax and would stick with head or neck shots, but I haven't hunted hogs before. The tsx, partition or game king seem like alot better choice and would take any question out of the bullet.
 
I would use at least a 60 grain or heavier but as always shot placement is your key to a quick kill. Good luck and take pics!
 
Originally Posted By: 1badsheeI don't think I would completely trust the vmax and would stick with head or neck shots, but I haven't hunted hogs before. The tsx, partition or game king seem like alot better choice and would take any question out of the bullet.

1badshee ... they're interesting animals to hunt. The VMax knocks them dead if put into the ear or high enough on the neck to break or damage the spine. It is surprising how much damage the VMax does. But, that really limits your options.

We went to the .450 Bushmaster on them last year, with MUCH better results.
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I have been shooting pigs for yrs and we use 223s and use the TSXs you can use the 45,50,55s what ever you pick will do just fine. I would spend the money for the TSXs every time they will penetrate and if by some strange chance you get a charger the tsx will stop him if you can shoot him!!!!. HAPPY HUNTING
 
55 grain sierra bthp been my go to for years on hogs and deer in a .223 and 22-250. I am going to try the TXSs though, probably in the next month or so.
 
55gr sp through the lungs will take them out, but they may go 50 yards or so before dropping. Head and neck shots are DRT. A small entrance and exit wound may plug with fat and result in no blood trail. That I learned through personal experience.
But they are fun to hunt. Did I mention FUN??

Shayne
 
Lots of hogs in my part of the world. When it comes to shooting them, size doesn't "so" much matter, it's all about shot placement. Put one in the ear and they're going down. I've killed several with a 22lr. But usually use a .223 with 55gr vmax.
 
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