The wide distribution and increasing population of feral hogs, not to mention a lengthy, if not continuous, season and liberal limits (in most states), has contributed to a growth in hunters pursuing the plentiful pigs both as a food source and for nuisance control. Winchester Ammunition was among the first companies to note this trend and offer specialty loads with bullets congruent with the animal’s unique anatomy.
Already available in .223 Rem., .270 Win., .308 Win., .30-’06 Sprg., and 7.62x39 mm, the company recently added a .44 Rem. Mag. to the Razorback XT line. As with the previous options, that for the .44 Rem. Mag. features a homogeneous, lead-free, hollow-point bullet with a “beveled” profile; in addition to adding an aesthetic twist, the flats purposefully slow expansion, which is desirable on hogs because their tough hide and much-touted “shield” must be defeated to reach the vital organs. The company suggests that the flats also strengthen the expanded segments.
Furthermore, absent a jacket, the 225-gr. bullet retains 100 percent of its pre-expansion weight for deep penetration, and the upset projectile exhibits six sharp petals, which aid tissue damage and penetration. Factory numbers maintain the load’s velocity as 1250 f.p.s., which results in 780 ft.-lbs. of energy at the muzzle; however, expect an exponential increase in both if employed in a .44 Rem. Mag.-chambered carbine, such as the CVA Scout or Hunter or Ruger 77/44.
Lastly, the Razorback XT load features nickel-plated brass cases for corrosion protection, which is no small consideration for hunting in the humid areas where the majority of feral hogs reside, as well as low-flash propellants to maintain visual acuity in compromised lighting-when most pursuits take place. MidwayUSA sells 20-count boxes of .44 Rem. Mag. Winchester Razorback XT ammunition for $31.
