Two factors are at work: 1) A heavier bullet will usually create more recoil and hence more muzzle lift overall. 2) A heavier bullet will usually be moving slower, meaning that the recoil has more time to move the barrel before the bullet exits. The result is that it is normal for a heavier bullet to have a more arched trajectory, which results in higher bullet placement at closer ranges and lower placement at longer ranges.

Thanks. Yes. At the time I thought it was odd (counter-intuitive) when I switched to the 180s, and they were coming high at 50, but I dismissed it. But then (yesterday) I recalled my handgun days - shooting the 44 (`Dirty Harry' gun), with somewhat similar effect going from light to mag loads. Thanks for your reply - you sorted it out well and concisely. The whole thing reinforces the fact that all the tables, ballistics, etc. - are no subtitute for going out and actually rattling rounds thru your gun.

Heavier bullets usually have a higher Point of Impact because they're moving slower and in the barrel LONGER as it naturally rises with recoil. Faster bullets generally shoot lower and slower projectiles tend to shoot higher due to muzzle rise.

Thanks gang ... our early elk season starts in ... 21 days! Yummmm.