Minimum bullet weight for ML ?

[nclonghunter]

What would be the lightest or minimum bullet weight you would use on a 50 caliber muzzle loader for elk hunting?
I used a 370 grain maxi ball this season and it performed well. I am considering the 320 grain but do not want to go to light.

 

[rkkmeyers]

I have seen many elk drop to a 245gr powerbelt.

 

[GoatT]

I used some 300 grain Hornady's years ago on my muzzy elk hunt and they performed flawlessly.  First shot was at 160 yards (broken shoulder), second shot 105 yards (lungshot, partial heart). 

 

[nclonghunter]

Thanks, it sounds like the 320 grain would be plenty of bullet for elk.

 

[Backpack Hunter]

I'm sure the 320gr would be fine. I use a 338gr with good results quite frequently.

 

[eric bailey]

I'm sure the 320gr would be fine. I use a 338gr with good results quite frequently.

Are you using the Powerbelt Platinum?  What do you think of it?

I just bought my first muzzleloader and am going to use it hunting elk in Colorado this fall.  I am trying to decide between a Thor 300 grain, a Hornady FPB at 350 grains, or the Powerbelt Platinum at 338 grains.  Not sure how much time I'll have to shoot all these, so I was going to just pick one and try to get a good load worked up for it and the gun sighted in. 

Leaning toward Thor 300 grain pushed by as much BH 209 as will burn in my 24" barrel (110 grains?).

 

[hank4elk]

I responded to your other post about the Thors and I see that you will be hunting in CO. Makes a difference what state on the reg.'s  ,sabots or not.
I'm shooting TC Omega Z50 w/250 Barnes and have for some time now. They will drop an elk or a deer.
100 grns of BH209. I use a Nikon scope on mine,just better for early and late hrs.
A buddy who hunts up in CO and here at home in NM uses the Thors in 300 w 110grns BH209. I think he switches to a different powder in CO. Open sites on his Omega Z50.