1 in 48????

[OldMtnMan]

I've hunted for elk since 1952, but with a muzzleloader since 1980. I told you what I use.

[Lead ball 54]

Sorry I missed that

[D. Taylor Sapergia]

Just my personal opinion:  .54 cal is minimum for elk and moose...using round ball.  Shot placement trumps velocity and ball weight, in all cases.

[Mike Brooks]

Just my personal opinion:  .54 cal is minimum for elk and moose...using round ball.  Shot placement trumps velocity and ball weight, in all cases.

I agree. Although If I were making a dedicated elk/moose gun I'd probably go with a .58.

[OldMtnMan]

Just my personal opinion:  .54 cal is minimum for elk and moose...using round ball.  Shot placement trumps velocity and ball weight, in all cases.

Minimum must be enough. I've never lost one. Before getting into muzzleloaders I used  a Win 94 in 30-30. I was told that wasn't enough gun. Never lost one with that either.

If you can't take an accurate humane shot you shouldn't be pulling the trigger. Double lung shots never fail for me.

[Daryl]

.54 is a good choice for the bigger, large game, yes.  I have seen .50's with round balls kill moose, and even a .45 with 128gr. ball on a 50yard shot on a nice young bull.