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Taylor Knockout Formula Comparison Chart

Energy in foot-pounds is a true measure or comparison of bullet 'power', but energy alone leaves a lot to be desired. It does not compare bullet effect on animals. As a result of this, many shooters have switched over to using the Taylor Knockout formula (TKO) as a much more realistic method of comparing bullet effect on game.

The Taylor K O Formula is an empirical measurement and is calculated as follows...

Bullet Weight (in grains) multiplied by Calibre (in inches) multiplied by Velocity (in fps) divided by 7000 = TKO rating.

This figure is basically the momentum of the projectile modified by a factor proportionate to the calibre.

The chart that follows is arranged in calibre order and includes a few small calibres and a few rifle calibres for comparison purposes.

Calibre
.000"
DescriptionBullet
Wt. Grains
Muzzle
Velocity
fps
Muzzle
Energy
ft lb
TKONotes
.22 Long Rifle4010851051.5Rimfire
.303 British173244018Mk 7
.357 Magnum158150012
.375 Supermag300155029
.44 Special250120018
.44 Magnum240140021
.445 Supermag300155029
.45 Colt25590015
.45 Colt260120020
.45 Colt300170029
.45-70 Government405132535
.454 Casull260180030
.454 Casull300170033
.454 Casull340180040
.475 Linebaugh400140038
.475 Maximum410155043
.475 Maximum430145042
.500 Linebaugh440125040
.500 Maximum440155050
.50 Action Express385160044
.50-70 Government525143555
12G Shotshell4651095Giroslug -.700" dia

Some of the figures in the chart have been called into question, all I can say is they are reported as they were relayed to me, I am not responsible for their accuracy.

 Revised... 14 September 2001, New Domain... 13 February 2004, Upgraded... 27 January 2007, Code Altered... 18 May 2008,
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