18Oct06

DPX on deer and goats:

Today, Vicki and I were hunting at a preserve in the Midwest. We do it every year at this time, and every year I like to use a different weapon. I especially like to use military rifles, as we never seem to get enough expe rience with these weapons in actual use.

This year, I used my EOTech-equipped RA/XCR (223) with Cor-Bon 53gr DPX ammunition. Vicki used her M1 Carbine, also with DPX (100gr). Normally, o ur friends at this facility require that hunters use something heaver, but the y extended special dispensation to us, because they know us well, and I indic ated to them that DPX would do the job. I was right, in spades!

I shot a fallow stag (200 lbs), in full rut, quartering away, at seventy-five meters. My one shot entered at the rear ribs on the right sid e and penetrated through eighteen inches, exiting the shoulder on the left side. Internal damage was massive! He took several tentative steps and then dropped dead ten feet from where he was hit. Like all Barnes bullets, this one did not break up, but expanded fully and then held together. I was on the link immediately, trying to hit him again, but he fell before I was able to pres s off a second round.

Vicki shot a four-horned goat (175 lbs) at forty meters, broadside. Her first round hit at the point of the shoulder and, like mine, went through a nd through. The goat dropped immediately, not even taking a step. However, a fter kicking for several minutes, he struggled back to his feet. A second shot in the same spot settled the issue for good. Again, both bullets expanded,

held together, and plowed through.

My positive impression of DPX, in all configurations, continues to grow! DPX is a wonderful performer on living tissue. Up until now, I would not recommend any 223 round for deer hunting, but, after today's experi ence, I have no compunction.

The XCR is a ideal travel-gun. With it, I'm ready for anything. Equipped with an EOTech, it is hard to beat!

It was a great day! We do this every chance we get.

/John