The Best Hunting Ammo: Choosing the Right Caliber and Bullet for Every Hunt

When it comes to hunting your ammunition is just as important as your firearm. The right round ensures a clean, ethical harvest and maximizes your effectiveness in the field. At our store, we’re focused on helping hunters choose ammo that balances accuracy, reliability, and stopping power, so every hunt is as successful as it is memorable.

Why Hunting Ammo Choice Matters

Every hunt is different and so is every cartridge. Small game requires light, fast rounds, while big game demands heavier bullets designed for controlled expansion. Choosing the wrong round risks missed opportunities and inhumane outcomes. That’s why successful hunters take care to match caliber and bullet type to the specific animal and terrain.

Popular Hunting Calibers and Their Uses

Hunting Caliber Comparison Chart

.22 LR

A favorite for small game like rabbits and squirrels. The .22 LR is inexpensive, accurate, and low recoil, making it ideal for beginners, However, it lacks the energy for medium or large game.

.223 Rem / 5.56 NATO

A versatile predator round, perfect for varmints, coyotes, and small hogs. With proper bullets, .223 Rem can legally be used on deer in some states, but shot placement is critical due to its lighter energy.

.243 Winchester

Excellent for youth hunters and medium game like deer and antelope. The .243 Win balances mild recoil with strong terminal performance, making it a trusted starter hunting caliber.

.270 Winchester

Known for flat trajectories and dependable knockdown power, the .270 Win shines on deer and elk-sized game. It has been a top North American hunting round for decades.

.308 Winchester

One of the most versatile hunting cartridges. The .308 Win works for everything from deer to hogs and even elk, while still maintaining manageable recoil and widespread ammo availability.

.30-06 Springfield

A legendary all-around cartridge, the .30-06 offers power and flexibility. With bullet weights ranging from 150 to 220 grains, it’s effective for nearly all North American game—from whitetail to moose.

6.5 Creedmoor

Modern hunters love the 6.5 Creedmoor for its exceptional accuracy, long-range performance, and mild recoil. It’s a go-to for deer, antelope, and elk, and continues to grow in popularity thanks to its efficiency and effectiveness at extended ranges.

Hunting Bullet Types Explained

Soft Point (SP)

The classic hunting bullet. Soft points expand on impact, penetrate deeply, and provide reliable terminal performance on most game animals.

Polymer-Tipped (Ballistic Tip)

Combines a streamlined profile for accuracy with rapid expansion. Best for deer-sized game at longer distances, though expansion may be too fast for very large animals.

Bonded Bullets

The bullet’s core and jacket are bonded to stay together on impact, allowing for deep penetration and high weight retention. Perfect for elk, moose, and other heavy game.

Hollow Point (HP)

Designed for rapid expansion, rifle hollow points are best used for varmints and small predators where explosive impact is preferred.

How to Store Hunting Ammo

Store hunting ammunition in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Airtight containers and desiccants help prevent corrosion and extend shelf life. Before each hunt, inspect your rounds for any signs of damage or moisture exposure.

Why Quality Hunting Ammo Matters

Hunters owe it to their quarry to use ammunition that performs consistently. High-quality hunting ammo ensures clean kills, ethical harvests, and reliable accuracy in any environment. That’s why we carry trusted brands across the most popular calibers, from .22 LR for varmints to 6.5 Creedmoor and .30-06 for big game.

When you shop with us, you’re not just buying ammo, you’re investing in hunts that are more successful, more ethical, and more enjoyable.