But Why?
The reason, I think, is momentum. “Energy” tends to go in all directions, while momentum goes in one direction. So the bullet uses some of the energy but maintains its direction while the rest of the energy goes all over, for lack of a better term. It’s why an animal can “absorb” 5,000 ft. lbs. of “energy” and shuffle off, while the same animal drops like a rock with a slow-moving heavy .45-70 bullet. A heavier bullet can use the same energy to penetrate further than a lightweight bullet can, using the same energy. Thank you, momentum. Try to stop a slow-moving bowling ball vs. a tennis ball, both launched with the same “energy,” and you get the point.
I’ve chased Jacks in the high desert, and when hit with 158-grain RNL .38s they almost always run off, jumping, unless you hit them just right. But, when hit with a 148-grain target wadcutter, I’d usually clearly hear that wet sounding “Thwap” sound, and they’d be DRT, or “Dead Right There,” as we used to say in the police department.
So, is it magic? Maybe not, but it’s pretty darn close. My “new/old” pocket revolver these days is that Charter loaded with .44 wadcutters. If you don’t have one of those, maybe a good .38 wadcutter load would work for you. You live, and you learn, or you don’t live long, eh?
For more info: USReloadingSupply.com
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