2 of 3 .325 WSM factory loads carry 1,200 ft·lb and expansion velocity for black bear; the best reach 600 yd (Nosler Expansion Tip 180 gr E-Tip). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nosler Expansion Tip 180 gr E-Tip | 180 | 600 | 3,050 | 1,620 | yes |
| Nosler Trophy Grade 200 gr AccuBond | 200 | 550 | 2,900 | 1,674 | yes |
| Winchester 220 gr Power-Point | 220 | wrong bullet | 2,840 | 1,519 | behind the shoulder only |
Fat and hair hide the vitals: aim 4–5″ behind the shoulder and a touch high. Partition / bonded / monolithic. Floor used: 1,200 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.themeateater.com, www.oneoutdoors.org.