2 of 2 .450 NE factory loads carry 1,200 ft·lb and expansion velocity for black bear; the best reach 500 yd (Hornady Dangerous Game Series 480 gr DGS). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hornady Dangerous Game Series 480 gr DGS | 480 | 500 | 2,150 | 1,275 | yes |
| Hornady Dangerous Game Series 480 gr DGX Bonded | 480 | 500 | 2,150 | 1,275 | yes |
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.