2 of 3 .325 WSM factory loads carry 1,500 ft·lb and expansion velocity for elk; the best reach 550 yd (Nosler Trophy Grade 200 gr AccuBond). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nosler Trophy Grade 200 gr AccuBond | 200 | 550 | 2,900 | 1,674 | yes |
| Nosler Expansion Tip 180 gr E-Tip | 180 | 500 | 3,050 | 1,620 | yes |
| Winchester 220 gr Power-Point | 220 | wrong bullet | 2,840 | 1,519 | 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.