K95 Cartridge Choice

[Gamsjagd]

If I lived in the UK, I would do a 6.5x55 or 6.5 Creedmoor.

I don't think the 6mm XC is legal for big deer in most of the UK. So I would pick the 6.5 Swede because it is faster than the 6.5 CM with good loads, and is common in the UK.

Creedmoor would be fine.

The rest are ok. Is this a wood gun or a plastic thumbhole?

I assume it will have a moderator on it?

[Chamois71]

I’ve had Merkel and K95 both in 7x57R and loved them both. I was advised against the caliber when I bought my first one in 2010, but even here in the US I was able to find a sufficient amount of ammo, brass, etc. I am not familiar with what limits exist for you in the UK, but that’s my vote for the Kipplauf and shots out to 300 meters.
Best
Scott

[stokesrj]

7x57r is hard to beat in a K95 and everyone needs a Hornet. Actually I sold all my K95s and barrels except my 22 Hornet which I will never sell. It is just plane fun and I have killed many animals thought to be above the weight class for the caliber. I’m not advocating it’s use on big game there are much more appropriate calibers but for game under 50 pounds and ranges under 200 yards it is just a joy.

[don_stefano]

My kipplauf Merkel K3 is in .243win. I would give it a thought since you are considering also a 6mm caliber. Factory ammo is widely available and plenty of bullet choice if you reload.
I think with good placement shots and stout copper bullet as 80-85gr it will do the job as well. I have two red deers with lungshots without any problem. I am not saying it is the best for big game animals but occasionally used will do the job if the hunter does his. Our red deers in Bulgaria are quite big. Males can reach 270kg before the rut. The ones I took were 150 and 170kg.
Best case scenarioi is two barrels - 7x57r and .222
Whatever you choose enjoy it!

[Left hunter]

What bullet are you using in your 22 hornet for big game?

[stokesrj]

I have used several different bullets. The ones pictured were mostly Barnes 45 grail XLC. But some were with the Sierra 45 grain Hornet and 45 grain Spitzer.

[SPEEDY]

I always wanted to try the 45gn barnes in the hornet, I was just never sure the 2:16" would stabilise it.
I guess it will, I've git some other 45gn sintered metal bullets that wouldn't stabilise, so it's handy to know what will.
I'd love a good pig with the hornet.

[Vaughan2]

I always wanted to try the 45gn barnes in the hornet, I was just never sure the 2:16" would stabilise it.
I guess it will, I've git some other 45gn sintered metal bullets that wouldn't stabilise, so it's handy to know what will.
I'd love a good pig with the hornet.

Shot a bunch of pigs with my old Savage 22 hornet when I was a kid. Wouldn't do it now but when you're young you use what you have. I reloaded it with, I think, 45gr hollow points and odds are they were Sierra bullets. It's near 50 years ago now, so take that for what it's worth.....

[SPEEDY]

I always wanted to try the 45gn barnes in the hornet, I was just never sure the 2:16" would stabilise it.
I guess it will, I've git some other 45gn sintered metal bullets that wouldn't stabilise, so it's handy to know what will.
I'd love a good pig with the hornet.

Shot a bunch of pigs with my old Savage 22 hornet when I was a kid. Wouldn't do it now but when you're young you use what you have. I reloaded it with, I think, 45gr hollow points and odds are they were Sierra bullets. It's near 50 years ago now, so take that for what it's worth.....

My experience with the 223 says you have to choose your shots wisely, but my experience with the hornet says one in head always works.