I use 170 gr. Silvertips meant for .30-30 both in my .300 Savage Rem 760 pump and in my .30-40 Hiwall. As you suspected, they do expand very well at a slightly higher velocity, as do Core-lokt Rems. Pushing them about 150-200 fps above factory .30-30 velocity isn't hard in the larger capacity cases, and is still a mild and accurate load. I never shoot at more than 150 yards and the flat point doesn't seem to affect drop noticeably at those ranges. I've killed blacktails, whitetails, and one 170# wild hog with them. Nice expansion in all cases, especially the Silvertips.
I just don't see the point of "premium" bullets on ordinary meat animals. If you're holding a once-in-a-lifetime elk tag somewhere or passing on all the "eaters" while waiting for a "bragger," that's a different kettle of fish.
