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When it comes to the proper caliber
of gun to bring, the general rule of thumb is no less than a .270 using
a 130 gr. bullet. There is really no limit as to the maximum caliber,
but let's bear in mind that we are hunting elk in country which tends
to be wide open. Calibers such as a 458 Magnum and 45-70 are more than
enough to kill an elk but probably don't shoot flat enough for our area.
A hunter must also take into consideration how they, as an individual,
react to the recoil of a particular gun. Recoil is not usually an issue
when you have a bull elk in your sights. However, you shouldn't be ashamed
to admit if a gun has too much recoil for you; it is much better to
hunt with a gun you can shoot well rather than strive to be in the "Big
Bore Club".
If you are the type of person who believes in waiting for the perfect
broadside shot at close range, say… no more than 200- 250 yards,
then a .270 or 30-06 will accommodate you just fine. If you are capable
of taking a longer shot and/or would consider taking a less than clear
shot at the vitals, you will have to come up with the gun-bullet combination
to serve that shot without causing a "wounded bull situation".
While we suggest that our hunters take no more than a 350 yd. shot,
a magnum caliber rifle will better enable a shooter to shoot comfortably
out to this range.
Probably the most important factor is that you shoot your gun often
before coming on your hunt. It consistently amazes me that many hunters
will spend large amounts of money to book a hunt, but not spend enough
time at the range. Spend some time shooting your gun before you go hunting;
not only will you be ready and relaxed when the time comes, you will
also have the confidence needed to connect on what could be your only
shot at a nice trophy.
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