SARG: Thanks for the picture!! Looks like a great rifle. I can imagine that it lets you know when it goes off! What does it weigh?

Hoppdoc:

The reference to "1/2 as deep" penetration in the cybertorpedo site is, as I read it, due to bullet fragmentation/failure. Adding additional velocity would cause more fragmentation and less penetration, not less fragmentation and more penetration. In the case of a weak bullet, increased velocity causes fragmentation and poor penetration.

Incidently, I've used a similar test by placing an elk femur in front of my jugs. A heavy elk bone really taxes a bullet and I can imagine their tests work well indeed.

I have read of legitimate .458 WM failures but the cases I've read about in all likelihood did not involve 500 grain FMJ's at 1900 or so fps, but rather much lower and/or unknown velocities caused by squib loads which in turn were caused by clumping ball powder used in early loads. I am not saying that the penetration of a good solid at 1900 fps is the same as one at 2300 fps since if the bullet will stand it, the added velocity should increase penetration.

Again, I am not saying that a 540 grain cast bullet shot at 1550 fps is the world's standard in elephant stoppers, but I would not be surprised to hear that when presented with a broadside bull buffalo it would shoot clean through it.

You've got me really curious, though!