Originally Posted By: 9322mag Will the 40gr reach the vitals from any angle ? I've considered them but am seeing shots that are facing or going away, Or hard angles. I always try to prepare for worst case scenario. No, it won't. That's a pretty unrealistic expectation for light/fast small caliber bullets. 17Rem won't do it either. Nor the 204. That's just part of the deal, light bullets require better shot placement.
If you want a varmint caliber bullet that will "reach the vitals from any angle" then you either need to use heavy for caliber bullets and/or non-fragmenting bullets. In .224 caliber, you will be pleased with a 45gr Barnes TSX because it's fast, it expands, it retains 99% weight, and it penetrates well. That's as close as you're going to get. TSX work great but cost 4x as much per bullet compared to lead. The 45's are also sometimes hard to find, so the 50gr TTSX may be a better choice for that reason.
PS- a facing shot is a money shot with 40gr Vmax. Aim for the lower neck kapow instant death.