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Post by yoderjac on Nov 8, 2022 11:57:07 GMT -5
Ok, I was just starting to explore a Hankins SPML-45 build options on other threads. It now looks like I have to take a step back even further. A few years ago our state changed the minimum caliber for a muzzleloader from .50 to .45. I bought my first SML, a Hankins .45 cal Encore build.
For the heck of I just checked our regulations again. They have now reduced the minimum caliber to .35.
Thus the question:
I'm not a target shooter, just a hunter. I'd like to hear views on .40 vs .45 SMLs for hunting. Advantages and disadvantages of each.
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Post by Kyle on Nov 8, 2022 12:18:35 GMT -5
.40's are legal in fewer states than the .45's, .45's are legal in fewer states than the .50's.
A .40 caliber in my opinion can get the same job done essentially with a bullet that weighs 50 grains lighter, comparison of sectional density.
.45's are generally easier to work up loads for in my opinion, a particular powder might cover a broad selection of light to heavier bullets.
.40's with light bullets are typically mild on the shoulder.
.40's build pressure quicker than .45's, someone working up their own loads for a .40 needs to have an understanding of this concept.
Heavy bullets are available for .40's that have BC's right up there with many 7mm and .30 cal rifles.
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Post by hillbill on Nov 8, 2022 16:56:02 GMT -5
Go back in the .40 cal thread section to see discussion on the topic.
My advice for the shooter with limited experience is to go .45, for those that's been in the game for a while and want to stretch their legs the .40 is a good option to explore.
My longest kill was with a .40, my second was with the .45, both were stretching the limits.
.40s are very bullet weight/powder specific unlike the .45 so if you plan to shoot different weight bullets you will be using 2 different powders, even then you might be experimenting somewhat due to limited load data available.
lots of data out there for the .45, pretty much a plug and play.
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Post by yoderjac on Nov 8, 2022 19:34:31 GMT -5
Thanks, that is just the kind of info I was looking for. I'll look on the .40 section to see if I can find the thread you are referring to.
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Post by yoderjac on Nov 8, 2022 21:30:29 GMT -5
After doing some more reading, I don't think I'm advance enough for a .40. I haven't found any huge advantages for hunting in the reading and it seems like the .45 is generally more flexible and forgiving.
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