Best 308 Bullet For Elk (2024 Update)
If you’re looking for the best 308 bullet for taking down an elk, there are a few important factors to consider. The 308 Winchester cartridge is a popular choice for hunting big game due to its accuracy and power. But not all bullets are created equal when it comes to elk hunting.
First, it’s important to consider the weight and construction of the bullet. A heavier bullet with a bonded core is more likely to deliver the kind of penetration and energy transfer needed for an ethical kill. Look for bullets designed specifically for hunting big game, with features like polymer tips or expanding hollow points to ensure maximum impact.
Other factors to consider are the velocity and trajectory of the bullet, as well as any regulations in the area where you’ll be hunting. Some regions may require the use of specific bullet types or have restrictions on certain calibers.
So, if you’re planning to pursue an elk with a 308 Winchester, what should you look for in a bullet? Are there any particular brands or styles that are highly recommended for this kind of hunting? And what steps can you take to ensure you’re using the right equipment for the job? Keep reading to find out more.
10 Best 308 Bullet For Elk
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Ideal for displaying the skull plates of large antlered and horned species such as elk, caribou, buffalo, moose, and heavy-horned sheep.
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The product is ideal for improving precision and accuracy during rifle shooting by facilitating bore sighting.
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The product is ideal for mounting natural or reproduction elk skulls on the wall in an adjustable and universal design.
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The product is ideal for hunters looking to mimic the sounds of elk and turkey to attract game.
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The product is ideal for attracting elk during hunting season.
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The product is ideal for practicing shooting accuracy and easily seeing the impact of each shot.
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The product is ideal for precision shooting and hunting at varying ranges without having to adjust the position of the reticle.
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The product is ideal for hunters as it attracts dominant bull elk and eliminates human scent.
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The product is ideal for chopping wood or other similar tasks that require a sharp and durable edge.
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The product is ideal for measuring the distance between a firearm's bolt face and the chamber's shoulder.
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1. Xxl Steel Skull Bracket For Heavy-Horned Species
Introducing the Perfect XXL Bone Bracket, a versatile and customizable trophy mounting system designed to showcase your prized antlered and horned species in a professional and elegant manner. With complete adjustability, this product offers the perfect presentation of your trophy, guaranteed to make your memories stand out.
The XXL Bone Bracket boasts a stronger arm and plate, providing support for even the larger skull plates of antlered and horned species such as ELK, while maintaining full rotational and angle adjustment capabilities. This feature ensures that you can achieve the perfect angle for your trophy display without compromising its sturdiness or overall look.
Assembly of the XXL Bone Bracket is quick and easy, making it an ideal alternative to professional mounting. The wall plaque can be mounted on a wall stud with the included screws, and the skull plate adjuster can be attached to the arm. Simply drill two holes in the skull plate, install two screws to attach the skull cap to the skull plate adjuster, and insert the tapered arm pegs into the wall plaque canisters. Any final adjustments can be made to the trophy positioning for the perfect display. All necessary hardware is provided, including one wall plate, one arm, one skull plate adapter, and all necessary screws.
With the Perfect XXL Bone Bracket, you can proudly display your hard-earned trophy with confidence. This unique mounting system is perfect for those who want a professional-looking display without the hassle of professional mounting. If you are not completely satisfied with your purchase, the product comes with a 100% return policy, ensuring your complete satisfaction. Invest in the Perfect XXL Bone Bracket and showcase your memories in a way that you can be proud of for years to come.
2. Laser Bore Sight, 308 Bore Sight Laser With 6 Batteries（2 Set Batteries）
The Class IIIA laser with a power output of less than 5mW is designed to fit the 308 laser bore sight, making it the perfect tool for gun enthusiasts. With its user-friendly design, the laser bore sight allows for fast and accurate gun zeroing and sighting, making it an essential tool for those who demand precision.
Constructed from sturdy brass, the boresighter is of the highest quality and built to last. Its durable construction ensures that it can withstand even the toughest conditions and will continue to provide reliable performance over time.
The laser sight is designed to sit perfectly in the bore, reducing the number of cartridges and shells wasted during the zeroing and sighting process. This not only saves time and money but also helps to protect the environment by reducing the amount of ammunition waste.
To ensure that you have everything you need to get started, we provide two sets of batteries (six in total) for the 308 laser bore sight. The battery type is LR41, which is widely available and easy to replace when needed.
3. Adjustable Elk Skull Wall Mount By Mountain Mike's
If you're looking for a way to display your hunting trophies without breaking the bank, look no further than this skull mounting kit. With a simple and easy-to-use design, you can mount your elk skull of choice with ease.
This kit is compatible with both original skulls and Mountain Mike's reproduction skull mounting kits, so you can choose the option that works best for you. Once you've chosen your skull, simply select your desired angle and tighten the side screws to secure it in place.
The kit includes everything you need for mounting, including an additional screw for real skulls. With this kit, you can proudly display your hunting spoils without the need for professional mounting services.
In addition to being cost-effective, this mounting kit is also incredibly user-friendly. Whether you're an experienced hunter or a newcomer to the sport, you can easily mount your elk skull with this kit.
4. Game Changer Elk/turkey Mini Bugle Tube
Looking for an effective tool to enhance your hunting experience? Look no further than this high-quality Elk and Turkey bugle tube! Made in the USA with top-of-the-line materials, this compact bugle tube is the perfect solution for calling Elk and Turkeys with ease. With its advanced design, this bugle tube is able to amplify Elk and Turkey sounds to help you attract your prey and make the most of your hunting trips.
Crafted with precision and care, this bugle tube is built to last and deliver reliable performance every time. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this bugle tube is an essential tool that will help you achieve success in the field. So why wait? Order yours today and experience the difference for yourself!
5. Wildlife Research Golden Estrus Elk Scent (470-4)
Introducing the fresh and extra premium cow elk estrus type scent, designed to enhance your hunting experience. This scent is highly effective during the rut and when bugling, making it an essential addition to your hunting gear.
Crafted from premium-quality cow elk estrus, this scent is guaranteed to drive bulls wild. Its alluring aroma mimics the natural scent of a cow elk in heat, making it irresistible to bulls during the mating season.
Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just starting out, this scent is easy to use and will help attract more bulls to your hunting area. Simply apply it to a scent wick or drag and strategically place it in your hunting spot.
Not only is this scent effective, but it is also long-lasting, ensuring that it will continue to attract bulls for hours on end.
Invest in this high-quality cow elk estrus type scent and take your hunting game to the next level.
6. See Your Shots Clearly With Splatterburst Targets!
This target is the perfect solution for anyone who wants to easily see their shots from a distance. With this target, there's no need to walk downrange to check your shots, as you'll be able to see them clearly from where you're standing.
Crafted from heavy-duty non-adhesive tag board, this target is built to withstand shot after shot. It's the ultimate target for all firearms, making it a must-have for any shooting enthusiast.
This target is available in both 25 and 50 packs, so you can choose the quantity that best suits your needs. And best of all, it's made right here in the USA, so you can trust that you're getting a quality product.
Whether you're a seasoned shooter or just starting out, this target is sure to help you improve your aim and accuracy. So why wait? Order your pack today and start hitting your targets with ease!
7. Vortex Optics Viper Parallax Adjustment Second Focal Plane Riflescopes
The Viper 6.5-20×44 is a highly durable hunting riflescope that is built to withstand rugged outdoor conditions. It features a 30mm main tube with a hard anodized finish, which gives it a tough exterior. The Mil-Dot reticle is a useful tool that was originally designed for the US Marine Corps. It can help to estimate range, windage, and bullet holdover, making it ideal for long-range shooting.
The Viper 6.5-20×44 riflescope incorporates premium, fully multi-coated, extra-low dispersion lenses that provide excellent resolution and color fidelity. The XR coatings on the lenses enhance light gathering capability, while the Armortek coating protects them from scratches and damage.
The riflescope has capped reset turrets, which allow for quick re-indexing of the turret to zero after sighting in. The side knob parallax adjust is quick and easy to use, and the range numbers are visible while in the shooting position. The fast-focus eyepiece allows for quick and easy reticle focusing, while the MAG-Bar enables rapid, easy changes in magnification.
The Viper 6.5-20×44 riflescope is ideal for a variety of applications, including long-range shooting, predator/varmint hunting, and target shooting. It is O-ring sealed and argon purged, which means it is both fogproof and waterproof. This makes it an ideal choice for hunters and shooters who need a riflescope that can perform in any weather condition.
8. Elk Estrus Dominant Attractant Spray
Introducing the Outdoor Hunting Lab Bull Elk Urine, a powerful attractant for dominant bull elk during the rutting season. This product is not just limited to hunters, but also useful for trappers and photographers who want to get closer to the herd unnoticed. The bull elk scent will bring out the aggressive territorial breeding behavior of the elk, making it perfect for late season bull hunting.
The Outdoor Hunting Lab Bull Elk Urine is collected from big adult bulls and comes in a tightly sealed spray bottle that keeps the elk pee pure and fresh. It is a highly effective lure that can even attract the challenger bull elk. Its strong scent can be compared to a stinky perfume that you do not want to get on your hands.
The company takes pride in providing the best elk scents in the market. In case you are not satisfied with your purchase, the 100% money-back guarantee ensures that you can contact them for a refund.
Using Outdoor Hunting Lab Bull Elk Urine as a cover scent can help hunters get closer to the herd without being detected. This product is also perfect for trappers and photographers who need to blend in with the surroundings and avoid being noticed by the elk.
9. Axe – Custom Handmade Stainless Steel Viking Axe, Gorgeous – Solid Wood Handle – Ax (2099)
This Hand Forged Stainless Steel Axe Hatchet Viking Throwing Ax with Unique Design is a must-have for outdoor enthusiasts and professional woodcutters. It boasts an overall length of 18 inches, with a blade cutting length of 4.3 inches and a tang length of 6.4 inches. The aggressive cutting angles design ensures better and efficient contact, making it ideal for felling trees and chopping medium to large-sized logs.
The handle is made of rosewood, which is not only beautiful but also adds to the overall durability of the axe. The amazing art etched onto the axe using a method of etching metal in salt water is sure to catch the eye of anyone who sees it. Plus, it is designed to last for years, so you can enjoy the beauty of the axe for a long time.
To protect the axe and keep it in top-notch condition, a handmade durable leather sheath is included. This ensures that the axe stays sharp and ready for use whenever you need it. Overall, this Hand Forged Stainless Steel Axe Hatchet Viking Throwing Ax with Unique Design is a solid and reliable tool that you can depend on for years to come.
10. Forster Products Sammi Dimensioned Headspace Gage, Rimless, Hardened Steel, Precision Ground
The NO-GO gauge is an essential tool for gunsmiths who are chambering new bolt-action rifles. It is important to note that the NO-GO measurement is not a SAAMI-maximum, but rather the maximum headspace recommended by the manufacturer. If a rifle closes on a NO-GO gauge, it may still be within SAAMI specifications, or it may have excessive headspace.
To determine if there is excessive headspace, the chamber should be checked with a FIELD gauge. It is recommended that gunsmiths use both the NO-GO and FIELD gauges to ensure that the rifle they are working on is within the correct specifications.
It is important to note that using the NO-GO gauge alone is not sufficient to determine if a rifle has excessive headspace. The FIELD gauge should always be used in conjunction with the NO-GO gauge to ensure accuracy.
Gunsmiths who want to ensure that their work is of the highest quality should invest in both the NO-GO and FIELD gauges to ensure that they are meeting the correct specifications for the rifles they are working on. With these tools in hand, they can confidently and accurately chamber new bolt-action rifles.
Best 308 Bullet For Elk FAQs
Are there any specific elk hunting regulations or restrictions related to using a 308 bullet?
Yes, there are specific regulations and restrictions related to using a .308 bullet for elk hunting. In most states, the minimum caliber requirement for elk hunting is .270 or .30 caliber, which includes the .308 bullet. Additionally, there may be certain restrictions on the type of bullet that can be used, such as a requirement for expanding or non-toxic bullets.
It is important for hunters to thoroughly research and understand the regulations and restrictions in their specific hunting area before heading out to hunt elk. This includes checking with state wildlife agencies and reviewing hunting regulations and guidelines.
Aside from regulatory considerations, hunters should also carefully consider their own skill level and the capabilities of their firearm when selecting ammunition for elk hunting. The .308 bullet can be effective for hunting elk if used properly, but it is important to ensure that the bullet is capable of delivering enough energy to take down the animal humanely.
How much energy does a 308 bullet need to effectively take down an elk?
The amount of energy required to effectively take down an elk with a 308 bullet depends on various factors such as the distance, bullet weight, bullet design, velocity, shot placement, and the individual elk's size and health. Generally, elk are large, tough animals, and require a bullet with sufficient energy to penetrate deep enough to reach vital organs and cause significant damage.
Most experts recommend a minimum of 1,500 foot-pounds of energy for elk hunting, and a 308 bullet is capable of delivering that amount of energy at shorter ranges. However, at longer ranges, the energy may drop below this threshold, making it less effective. In such cases, hunters may need to consider using heavier bullets or switching to a more powerful cartridge.
Ultimately, it is important to choose the right bullet and cartridge for the intended range and hunting conditions, and to practice good shot placement to ensure a humane and successful kill. It is also essential to comply with local hunting regulations and ethical hunting practices.
Is a bonded bullet or a non-bonded bullet better for elk with a 308?
Both bonded and non-bonded bullets can be effective for hunting elk with a .308 rifle, but there are some differences to consider.
Bonded bullets are designed to maintain their shape and weight upon impact, even when passing through tough hide, bone, or muscle. This can help ensure deep penetration and reliable expansion, which are important factors for taking down large game like elk. Bonded bullets can also reduce the risk of bullet fragmentation, which can create multiple, shallow wounds instead of one lethal shot.
Non-bonded bullets, on the other hand, may offer faster velocities and flatter trajectories, which can be beneficial for longer shots. However, they may be more prone to fragmentation or deformation upon impact, which can decrease their effectiveness.
Ultimately, the choice between bonded and non-bonded bullets will depend on personal preference, hunting conditions, and the specific elk being hunted. It's important to choose a bullet that is appropriate for the intended range and velocity of the rifle, and to practice proper shot placement and firearm safety at all times.
Should I choose a soft point or a hollow point bullet for elk with a 308?
When it comes to choosing the right bullet for elk hunting with a 308 rifle, the decision between a soft point or a hollow point bullet has been a long-standing debate among hunters. Soft point bullets are designed to expand on impact and penetrate deep into the animal's body, while hollow point bullets are designed to expand rapidly on impact and create a larger wound channel.
In the case of elk hunting, it is recommended to use a soft point bullet as it offers better penetration and weight retention, which is crucial for taking down such a large animal. While hollow point bullets may expand more rapidly, they tend to lose weight and may not penetrate as deeply as desired.
Additionally, it is important to choose a bullet with a weight of at least 150 grains for elk hunting with a 308 rifle, as this will provide the necessary energy and momentum to take down the animal effectively. Ultimately, the key to successful elk hunting is accuracy and shot placement, so be sure to choose a bullet that you are comfortable and confident shooting with.
What brand of 308 bullet is known for its performance on elk?
When it comes to hunting elk with a .308 bullet, there are several brands and types of bullets that are known for their performance. One of the most popular brands is the Nosler Partition bullet. This bullet is designed to expand upon impact while also retaining enough weight to penetrate deeply into the animal, creating a large wound channel and ensuring a quick, humane kill. Another popular choice is the Barnes TSX bullet, which is made entirely of copper and is known for its high weight retention and consistent performance. Other popular brands for elk hunting with a .308 bullet include the Hornady Interlock and the Sierra GameKing. Ultimately, the best brand of bullet for elk hunting with a .308 will depend on your personal preferences and the specific conditions of your hunting trip, but any of these top brands should provide excellent performance and reliable results.
What bullet design is best for elk hunting with a 308?
When it comes to elk hunting with a 308, the best bullet design to use would be a heavy-for-caliber bullet with a high sectional density. This is because elk are large animals and require a bullet that can penetrate deeply and deliver enough energy to take them down. A bullet with a weight of around 180 grains would be ideal for this purpose.
In terms of bullet types, bonded or monolithic bullets are popular choices for hunting elk as they tend to retain their weight and penetrate deeply, even when encountering heavy bone and muscle mass. Other bullet designs that could work well include soft point or polymer-tipped bullets, which can deliver good expansion and energy transfer upon impact.
Ultimately, the key to success in elk hunting with a 308 is to choose a bullet that is well-suited for the task, and to practice good shot placement and stalking skills to ensure a clean, ethical harvest.
What is the maximum effective range for a 308 bullet on elk?
The maximum effective range for a .308 bullet on elk largely depends on various factors such as bullet weight, bullet design, velocity, and accuracy of the shooter. However, the general rule of thumb for ethical hunting of elk is to shoot at a maximum range of 300 yards or less. This is because beyond this range, the energy and velocity of the bullet decrease significantly, which can result in wounding rather than a clean and humane kill.
It's important to note that while the .308 is a popular cartridge for hunting elk, it's vital to use the appropriate bullet and shot placement to ensure a quick and humane kill. Therefore, hunters should always practice shooting at different distances to determine their effective range and choose a bullet that can deliver the required energy at that range. Additionally, hunters should consider other factors such as the elk's behavior, weather conditions, and shot angle when determining the maximum effective range.
What is the most effective 308 bullet for elk hunting?
When it comes to elk hunting with a .308 rifle, the most effective bullet would depend on various factors such as the distance of the shot, the type of terrain, and the size of the elk. Generally, hunters prefer bullets that offer deep penetration and expansion for clean and ethical kills.
One popular option is the Barnes TTSX bullet, which is known for its accuracy and ability to expand quickly upon impact, creating a large wound channel for faster kills. Another popular choice is the Nosler Partition bullet, which is designed to penetrate deeply and retain its weight for maximum stopping power.
Ultimately, the best bullet for elk hunting with a .308 rifle would be one that you are comfortable and accurate with, and that provides reliable performance in various hunting conditions. It is also important to choose the appropriate bullet weight and to practice shooting at various distances to ensure a clean and ethical kill.
What kind of accuracy can I expect from a 308 bullet when hunting elk?
The accuracy of a bullet is dependent on various factors such as the skill level of the shooter, distance, bullet weight, and the rifle. A .308 bullet is commonly used for hunting elk and is a popular choice among hunters. With proper shot placement and a well-constructed bullet, a .308 can be effective in taking down an elk. However, it is important to note that shot placement is crucial and the bullet needs to be placed in the vitals of the animal to ensure a clean and ethical kill. It is recommended to practice shooting at different distances and under various conditions to become proficient with your rifle and to increase your accuracy. Additionally, selecting the right bullet weight and construction is important for ensuring that the bullet retains its weight and penetrates deeply enough to reach vital organs. Overall, with proper preparation, a .308 can be an accurate and effective choice for hunting elk.
What weight bullet is recommended for elk with a 308?
When it comes to hunting elk with a .308 rifle, the recommended bullet weight is between 165 and 180 grains. While both lighter and heavier bullets can be used, they may not provide the optimal combination of accuracy and stopping power needed for a clean kill.
Choosing the right bullet weight is crucial in ensuring that the animal is taken down humanely and that the meat is not damaged. A heavier bullet will typically have more kinetic energy and penetrate deeper, while a lighter bullet may travel faster but not have as much stopping power.
Ultimately, it is essential to test different bullet weights and brands to determine which one performs best in your rifle and delivers the accuracy and power needed to take down an elk effectively. It is also important to follow all local regulations and ethical hunting practices.
