I have no point of view here - just the basic question - but I wonder if the visible reaction isn't more related to the bullet type than the caliber.
Jaywalker
Caliber (and to an lesser extent velocity) being the same--I entirely agree. I have seen too many varying responses by the same species with essentially the same calibers at the same velocity to think that caliber makes a big difference within a specific "range" of calibers and velocity. On those particular species with those calibers, plain 'ol bullet performance is the biggest factor.........
Casey