Hog hunting is as much about strategy as it is about firepower. Choosing the right cartridge can mean the difference between a clean, humane kill and a frustrating chase. Whether you’re tackling a lone boar or a sounder of feral hogs, these five cartridges offer versatility, power, and reliability. Let’s dive into why these options are favorites among seasoned hunters.
1. 6.5 Grendel: The Precision Powerhouse

Compact yet powerful, the 6.5 Grendel has gained a reputation as one of the most efficient hog-hunting cartridges. Its 123-grain bullets pack a punch, delivering impressive energy at moderate recoil levels. With a ballistic coefficient that ensures flat trajectories, this cartridge excels in long-range engagements while maintaining deadly accuracy. It’s particularly well-suited for young or small-framed hunters, offering manageable recoil without sacrificing performance.
Hunters have praised the Grendel’s versatility in various rifles, from bolt-action models to modular builds. Whether you’re tracking in thick brush or taking longer shots in open fields, the 6.5 Grendel is a reliable choice.
2. .308 Winchester: The Heavy Hitter

If you’re after sheer stopping power, the .308 Winchester is hard to beat. This classic cartridge can handle hogs of all sizes with ease, delivering deep penetration and rapid takedowns. Shooting a 150-grain bullet at around 2,850 feet per second, the .308 is perfect for those who want to ensure a one-shot kill.
Its versatility shines in various rifle platforms, from bolt-action to pump-action and even single-shot models. While its recoil is heavier compared to other cartridges on this list, it’s manageable for most experienced hunters. For those who want a cartridge that can handle hogs, deer, and even larger game, the .308 Winchester is a no-brainer.
3. .243 Winchester: Speed and Precision

The .243 Winchester offers a balanced blend of speed, accuracy, and energy. With 100-grain bullets traveling at nearly 3,000 feet per second, this cartridge is ideal for medium-sized hogs. It’s a favorite among hunters who need versatility, as it can transition seamlessly between hog hunting, deer hunting, and even predator control.
The .243 is particularly effective for hunters who prefer bolt-action rifles. Its flat trajectory ensures accuracy over long distances, while its manageable recoil makes it accessible for hunters of all experience levels.
4. .223 Remington: Lightweight Versatility

The .223 Remington is one of the most accessible cartridges for hog hunting, especially for those already using this caliber for other types of game. While it’s considered the minimum caliber for hogs, proper bullet selection can make it highly effective. Heavy bullets in the 60-75 grain range, especially those with soft points or bonded designs, perform well for precise cranial or lung shots.
The .223 is excellent for younger hunters or those dealing with smaller hogs. Its low recoil and wide availability make it a practical choice, though hunters should be mindful of its limitations when facing larger hogs or challenging shots.
5. .22 Nosler: The Speed Demon

Built for high velocity and flat trajectories, the .22 Nosler takes the strengths of the .223 Remington and amplifies them. By using a slightly larger case, this cartridge delivers higher speeds and energy without requiring a larger rifle platform. The .22 Nosler excels with heavier bullets, like 70 or 75 grains, ensuring reliable penetration and expansion for effective kills.
This cartridge is particularly effective for hunters using lightweight rifles or engaging hogs at longer distances. Its minimal recoil and impressive ballistics make it an excellent choice for precision shots and follow-ups.
Understanding Ballistics: Why Cartridge Choice Matters

Choosing the right cartridge isn’t just about personal preference – it’s about understanding the demands of hog hunting. Hogs are tough animals, with thick hides, dense bones, and strong survival instincts. A well-chosen cartridge ensures ethical kills by delivering sufficient energy and accuracy to vital areas.
Lighter cartridges, like the .223 Remington or .22 Nosler, excel in scenarios where speed and precision are crucial. Heavier options, such as the .308 Winchester, bring the power needed to take down larger hogs at close or medium ranges.
Bullet Selection: The Unsung Hero

A cartridge is only as effective as the bullet it fires. For hog hunting, bonded bullets, soft points, or all-copper designs are ideal. These bullets maximize energy transfer and prevent fragmentation, ensuring deep penetration into vital organs. Heavy-for-caliber bullets are particularly useful for maintaining accuracy and lethality, especially on larger hogs.
Rifle Versatility: From Bolt Action to Modular Builds

The adaptability of these cartridges across different rifle platforms is another reason for their popularity. Whether you prefer the precision of a bolt-action rifle, the rapid follow-up shots of a modular design, or the simplicity of a single-shot, there’s a cartridge and rifle combination to suit your needs.
Practice Makes Perfect

No matter how powerful or accurate your chosen cartridge is, success ultimately comes down to shot placement. Regular practice at the range, combined with an understanding of hog anatomy, is essential for humane and effective hunting. For hunters using new cartridges like the 6.5 Grendel or .22 Nosler, range time also helps build familiarity with their unique ballistics.
A Final Word on Responsibility

Hog hunting serves a critical role in controlling feral hog populations, which cause extensive agricultural and ecological damage. By choosing the right cartridge and practicing ethical hunting techniques, you can contribute to this effort while ensuring clean and humane kills.
Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just starting out, these five cartridges represent the best options for success in the field. Take the time to understand their strengths and choose the one that fits your rifle, hunting style, and target environment. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to take on any hog that crosses your path.

A former park ranger and wildlife conservationist, Lisa’s passion for survival started with her deep connection to nature. Raised on a small farm in northern Wisconsin, she learned how to grow her own food, raise livestock, and live off the land. Lisa writes about homesteading, natural remedies, and survival strategies. Whether it’s canning vegetables or setting up a rainwater harvesting system, Lisa’s goal is to help others live more sustainably and prepare for the unexpected.