Solids vs. Soft-Points

by
posted on March 28, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **

Q: Is a solid bullet just as effective on heavy-boned animals as a soft-point, all other things being equal?

A: Driving a solid bullet through both shoulders or the spine of a large game animal can have as much, or more, terminal effect as a soft-point through tissue. The solid will typically produce a smaller (in diameter) wound channel than an expanded soft-point bullet, but will more likely produce a longer wound channel as it will often penetrate more deeply. The result is less peripheral damage but a possibly deeper wound channel. On large, dangerous game like elephant and buffalo, a solid may also break bones that a soft-point will not.

Latest

Ledefederal Upland Steel
Ledefederal Upland Steel

New for 2026: Updated Federal Upland Steel

Federal Ammunition has two new 12-gauge loads in its Upland Steel shotshell lineup. Built for consistent patterns and hard-hitting performance with non-lead shot, these new offerings are being delivered to retailers nationwide and expand the versatility of the Upland Steel product line.

New for 2026: ATN TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On

ATN Corp. has announced it's TICO 6 Thermal Clip-On, a next-generation thermal clip-on designed for hunters looking for a thermal upgrade to their favorite daytime scope.

Tips & Tactics: Hone Your Tiny-Tract Turkey Skills

Different is good despite what peers and friends may say about your contradictory ways. Staying the course as different could be your key strategy when hunting a small property for turkeys this spring. Curveball tactics, unexpected pop-ins and tossing time-honored tactics all could flow in your favor while hunting a tiny tract for turkeys.

First Look: Bond Arms 250th Anniversary Hand Cannon

Bond Arms has introduced its America 250th Special Edition Hand Cannon, a limited-edition heirloom created to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of American Independence.

#SundayGunday: Big Horn Armory Model 89 Take Down

There’s no denying lever-action rifles have a hold on American shooters. They have a storied history with modern application, and simply put, they are just cool. On this episode of American Hunter’s Sunday Gunday, we’re taking a closer look at a lever action rifle that adds to that appeal a big-bore 500 Smith and Wesson chambering, and the ability to be taken down into two parts for easy transport: The Model 89 500 S&W Take Down from Big Horn Armory.

Time to Apply for Pennsylvania Elk

This year, the window to apply for Pennsylvania's elk season starts on May 1 and goes to July 12.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.