1 of 3 7x57R factory loads carry 1,200 ft·lb and expansion velocity for black bear; the best reach 250 yd (Norma 156 gr Oryx). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norma 156 gr Oryx | 156 | 250 | 2,608 | 727 | yes |
| Norma 160 gr Tipstrike | 160 | wrong bullet | 2,625 | 1,176 | behind the shoulder only |
| Norma 150 gr Jaktmatch FMJ | 150 | wrong bullet | 2,641 | 987 | 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.