4 of 4 .404 Jeffery factory loads carry 1,500 ft·lb and expansion velocity for elk; the best reach 500 yd (Norma African PH (Woodleigh Soft Nose) 450 gr). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norma African PH (Woodleigh Soft Nose) 450 gr | 450 | 500 | 2,150 | 1,519 | yes |
| Hornady Dangerous Game Series 400 gr DGS | 400 | 450 | 2,300 | 1,383 | yes |
| Hornady Dangerous Game Series 400 gr DGX Bonded | 400 | 450 | 2,300 | 1,383 | yes |
| Norma African PH Solids 400 gr Norma Solid | 400 | 350 | 2,325 | 1,028 | yes |
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.