The distance started at about 40 yards and ended around 70. I heard two distinct “slaps” (1st and 3rd shot. The 3rd shot did slow him down noticeably). Shot 2 must have been in the ear, because the last one, the one I think immobilized him, was a graze on the back of the neck between the shoulders and the base of the skull. The whole engagement lasted 5 to 7 seconds. I should have taken pictures showing the wounds.
I should mention that had another encounter hog the following morning. At about 225 yards, it was a very long shot for my setup (4x scope). I didn't think I had hit him, but after some looking I found the little turd (about a 30 LB piglet) stumbling around. I had gut shot him. I was surprised, and disappointed, that he wasn't incapacitated. A shot behind the shoulders at 20 yards worked as expected though.
Again, I think I am expecting too much given my poor shot placement. Given the right circumstance, I would be able to place shots properly and surely receive better results. Unfortunately, 90% of my opportunities take place quick and in a hurry with no chance to find a nice rest, exhale and squeeze. My thought is that with more energy, these engagements would end with better results, even with suboptimal shot placement.
I think I will give the 6x45mm a try. The vendor at the fun show was willing to part with a new barrel for $100. It seems worth the risk. That is, if I can find reloading equipment and some ballistics data to confirm my thoughts.
On a related note, I ran accross this thread on the 7.62x40 cartridge. looks interesting...
http://www.ar15.com/forums/topic.html?b=3&f=121&t=382761
thanks