Conversion from conventional lead-containing to lead-free rifle bullets in the Gesäuse National Park 2015/2016

This evaluation of the project NP Gesäuse concludes the conversion from lead-containing to lead-free rifle bullets for the fourth hunting season 2015/2016. In this hunting season we have two new bullet models in the evaluation. On the one hand, it is the Norma Kalahari in the Kal. .308 Win, which was used by Mr. Hintsteiner, on the other hand the bullet Federal Trophy Cooper, which was used by Mr. Zorn and Mr. Mayer. In principle, it is very remarkable that the implementation of the lead-free projectiles, even if new projectiles are used again, is carried out with appropriate routine by the professional hunters. This can be seen in the personal conversations and in the evaluation statistics, which reflect the corresponding breakdown of the bullet effect in one piece. A total of 139 shellfish were killed in the 2015/2016 season. Only those were included in the more accurate evaluation where more than 10 pieces per calibre were killed per hunter. Under 10 pieces / caliber, no nearly reliable conclusions can be drawn about the killing effect of the respective projectile. The lead-free bullets already used in practice again accurately showed the trend of killing effect already gained in the last evaluations. The two new projectile models used have proven their worth in use. This is shown by the evaluation and also the personal statements of the respective hunters. Therefore, I come to the conclusion that ultimately the rapid initial speed of the lead-free ensures a good killing effect, which is particularly noticeable at long shot distances. However, if we look at the Norma Kalahari with 9.7 g bullet weight, then it is also the bullet construction, which has a relatively low limit velocity and thus also seems well suited for slower calibers. This finding can only be seen by subdividing the data series with regard to the two parameters game weight up to and from 50 kg and shot distance up to and from 150 m. In summary, it can be said that with lead-free projectiles, not only can the projectile model be recommended as good or not good, but a reference to the caliber used must always be made.