Energy table disciples should think a little deeper as to their assertions. At-the-muzzle energy figures are not what reaches the animal anyway. To follow their logic a rifle will fall below killing power after the energy drops to 1000 foot pounds or below. As if a .458 Winchester magnum bullet is futile after traveling more than 50 yards. That circling cycle of premise is stuck on a failure of musing. Terminal ballistics is what count. And placement is paramount in exercising terminal ballistics. Max Prasac mingled out in his response the reference to 7 feet of penetration with his revolver and the Professional Hunter quoted as saying the buffalo was dropped in a very short distance. Edifying while responding is a wise approach.
Placement of a lethal bullet design where the animal lives is WHAT BRINGS DOWN GAME EFFECTIVELY. Whether delivered by a rifle or a handgun, the bullet is the only contact that reaches the animal. Make the shot count as it is only accurate shots that are satisfying. If the animal moves just as you pull the trigger and the bullet hits too far back, then all bets are off and the lead must fly or the meat won't fry. The men and women of action know what is at stake. Keep shooting and reloading until the animal falls. And if the animal stops then place the shot accurately and keep hitting it till the animal falls. A true hunter respects the animal they hunt. And they strive, in turn, to drop it humanely. Hunters do not delight in the kill. Hunters savor the hunt and want only to bring the animal down as fast as possible with a lethal shot. Whether a neophyte or a seasoned hunter the goal is the same. Practice and practice and practice some more. No regret is more keenly and deeply felt than to miss your target and in turn, wound your quarry. Prevent regret by practicing until you are at ease in lining up the sights and squeezing the trigger consistently until the hammer falls. God Bless the Doers and God Forgive the Ones Who Give Only Lip Service to Action!!! Amen