3 of 3 .325 WSM factory loads carry 1,000 ft·lb and expansion velocity for whitetail deer; the best reach 650 yd (Winchester 220 gr Power-Point). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winchester 220 gr Power-Point | 220 | 650 | 2,840 | 1,519 | behind the shoulder only |
| 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 |
The 1,000 ft·lb deer figure traces to Townsend Whelen and is the one everyone repeats; Hawks puts the floor nearer 800. An 8–10″ heart/lung zone. Legal: CO: 1,000 ft·lb at 100 yd · SD: 1,000 ft·lb at muzzle. Floor used: 1,000 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.outdoorlife.com, www.petersenshunting.com, chuckhawks.com.