3 of 6 8x57 JRS factory loads carry 1,500 ft·lb and expansion velocity for elk; the best reach 300 yd (Lapua 180 gr Naturalis (N559)). Ranked, with the drop chart for each.
| Load | gr | Max ethical yd | MV fps | 500 yd ft·lb | Shoulder shot |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lapua 180 gr Naturalis (N559) | 180 | 300 | 2,641 | 936 | yes |
| Norma 160 gr Ecostrike | 160 | 200 | 2,625 | 822 | yes |
| Norma 196 gr Oryx | 196 | 200 | 2,395 | 754 | yes |
| Norma 180 gr Tipstrike | 180 | wrong bullet | 2,493 | 840 | behind the shoulder only |
| Norma 196 gr Vulkan | 196 | wrong bullet | 2,395 | 797 | behind the shoulder only |
| Norma 196 gr Whitetail SP | 196 | wrong bullet | 2,395 | 683 | 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.