Hornady SST Bullets, 25 CAL

[Jeffreii]

Has anyone had good results using the 25 Cal 117 gr SST on deer? I am wondering how good of penetration it offers - sounds more like an explosive type design rather than a penetrator, but lists it as a game bullet not a varmint round. I was wanting their 117 gr round nose but it was not available back when I was buying , so I have the SSTs. This bullet sure is big for its weight, at least compared to others. I'm wondering if there is an air pocket before the lead starts making it more of a 'super shock tip' or something.

The gun would be an Encore pistol with 15" barrel in 25-'06, target mule deer. I have lots of different (and far better) choices for mule deer, however, I am mostly picturing this where I am varmint shooting and happen to stumble upon some mulies - which is exactly what happened a while back. So besides all the 75 gr V-MAX's, I want to have a few rounds 'just in case' I run into deer again. I figure this 25-'06 should be a good combo varmint/deer and in a 15" handgun makes it all the more fun.

Ranges encountered would be <100 yds, probably more like 50 or so.

 

[41 Mag]

In my opinion and for your use, the SST or even the 115gr Nosler BT should work well. You have to consider that you will not be getting the same velocities, and that you impact velocity will be in the 1800 - 2000fps range. This will enable either of these bullets to open up but not be nearly as explosive as if they were impacting at 2600-2800fps. You will also have the highest BC bullets for weight and the sectional density will help you out with penetration.

Another option is the 110gr Accubond. You should be able to get the velocity up a bit on it and it will hold together well and drive deep. Not sure how well they would work on a mulie, but they drop whitetails out to 350yds easily enough.