1 of 8 .300 Norma Mag factory loads carry 1,500 ft·lb and expansion velocity for elk; the best reach 400 yd (Norma 200 gr Oryx). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norma 200 gr Oryx | 200 | 400 | 2,953 | 1,301 | yes |
| Berger 215 gr Hybrid Target | 215 | wrong bullet | 3,017 | 2,675 | behind the shoulder only |
| Berger 230 gr Hybrid OTM Tactical | 230 | wrong bullet | 2,934 | 2,744 | behind the shoulder only |
| Berger 245 gr Long Range Hybrid Target | 245 | wrong bullet | 2,770 | 2,777 | behind the shoulder only |
| Norma 230 gr Hybrid Target HPBT | 230 | wrong bullet | 2,986 | 2,864 | behind the shoulder only |
| SIG Sauer Elite Match Grade 215 gr OTM | 215 | wrong bullet | 3,000 | 2,642 | behind the shoulder only |
| SIG Sauer Elite Match Grade 215 gr OTM | 215 | wrong bullet | 3,000 | 2,642 | behind the shoulder only |
| Norma 220 gr Golden Target HPBT | 220 | wrong bullet | 2,986 | 2,371 | behind the shoulder only |
1,500 ft·lb is the number most repeated (Guns & Ammo, Backfire); Hawks says 1,200, Boddington floats 2,000. Avoid quick-opening and match bullets. Legal: SD: ≥ .243 and 1,700 ft·lb at muzzle · CO: 1,000 ft·lb at 100 yd, ≥ 85 gr. Floor used: 1,500 ft·lb at impact plus the bullet's published expansion velocity. Orange = a target or varmint bullet (construction, not energy); red = never carries the energy. Sources: www.gunsandammo.com, www.chuckhawks.com, www.petersenshunting.com, regulations.justia.com.