Hunting bullets - 223 REM

[Ranger]

I’ve just recently received a Howa 223Rem 1:8 twist and bought 60gr VMax bullets for myself to use for general pest control. I want my kids to use it as well for hunting small to medium game. What bullets are recommended? I have not yet tried the Vmax as a Hunting bullet but I’m concerned that it’s going to cause too much meat damage or animal losses at the closer distances my kids would shoot at.

I generally prefer heavier bullets in all hunting rifles and would, if possible, like to continue that trend with the 223.

[HunterB]

Hornady 60gr SP

[tripodmvr]

Barnes 62gr

[NoahJames]

I’ve just recently received a Howa 223Rem 1:8 twist and bought 60gr VMax bullets for myself to use for general pest control. I want my kids to use it as well for hunting small to medium game. What bullets are recommended? I have not yet tried the Vmax as a Hunting bullet but I’m concerned that it’s going to cause too much meat damage or animal losses at the closer distances my kids would shoot at.

I generally prefer heavier bullets in all hunting rifles and would, if possible, like to continue that trend with the 223.

Yes, that’s a fair concern with V-Max for hunting. For your use, go for heavier .223 hunting bullets like 62–77gr soft points or bonded bullets. They give better penetration and less meat damage, especially at close range.