What is the minimum caliber for conical bullets in muzzleloader hunting?

In muzzleloader hunting, the minimum caliber requirement for conical bullets is established to ensure ethical hunting practices and effective game harvesting. The .40 caliber is recognized as a suitable minimum because it provides an adequate balance between impact energy and projectile capabilities when hunting medium-sized game, such as deer. This ensures that hunters can effectively and humanely take down the target without excessive suffering and with a higher likelihood of a clean shot.

Conical bullets, specifically, require sufficient mass and diameter to penetrate effectively and deliver adequate knockdown power. A .40 caliber bullet offers the necessary characteristics to perform well in these aspects, making it a standard choice for hunters using muzzleloading firearms.

Other calibers, while potentially effective, may not meet legal or ethical guidelines set for hunting with conical bullets in many jurisdictions.