All:

I've got a very basic question for the good folk with some experience hunting Cape buffalo: the question is related to the power of .500 nitro express velocities suitable to slay one of these tough beasts... I have shot some .570 grain factory Hornady DGX loads through a chronograph at 20 feet from the muzzle and have achieved a velocity reading of 2050fps. My hand loads of .570 grain Barnes TSX FB register at 1850 fps across the chronograph. The issue is that my hand loads will do a composite group of 2" by 1.5" at 100 yards, 1" to the left of the bullseye so my hand load accuracy is fantastic. The factory loads don't give a composite group worth a damn in my double rifle so I'm inclined to shoot what is accurate.

Herein lies my dilemma: given the factory loads have loads of power but not so good on the accuracy front, I would prefer to hunt with the accurate Barnes hand loads. Am I producing enough power with my hand loads assuming up to 100 yard shots to comfortably hunt Cape buffalo, or for that matter, hippo (with Barnes solids @ the same velocity and POI) with my hand loads?

All opinions welcome.

Many thanks,

Steve aka "The Postman"