Hunting elk can be fun, challenging, and rewarding, with the prize being a popular meat that even those unfamiliar with the taste of game enjoy. Using a bow and arrow or a rifle, you can bring down one of these massive animals even as a novice. What is important is that you use the best weapon and learn the habits of elk so your hunting experience will be successful. As a hunter new to elk hunting, how do you prepare yourself?
Choosing the Best Weapon
In selecting the right elk hunting rifle, you should ask for advice from an experienced hunter or from a pro shop. You will quickly learn that there are many opinions about the best choice, so ultimately you have to evaluate the evidence and hold a few rifles in your hand to help decide what you want to buy. You should also consider the strategy and the hunting conditions for your trip. If you anticipate shooting an elk, first decide on your equipment.
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- Bolt action or semi automatic. Bolt action rifles are safe and accurate, yet can be loaded fast enough to keep up with the target. Semi-automatic rifles offer the ability to take multiple shots without reloading. Especially when using high-caliber bullets, the recoil action on semi automatic weapons may be a detriment, based on your health, age, and experience.
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- Choosing the right scope. Since bull elk are such large animals, the quality of the optics on your scope is more important than magnification. Many hunters choose a 2-7 x 2.5-8 index scope that will cover most circumstances.
- In person or online purchase. You should always know the feel of any gun you buy, so you should only shop for a rifle online once you have felt the model in your hand. You must have the gun shipped to a licensed FFL (Federal Firearms License) dealer who will transfer it to you for a small fee. Before you accept a gun, make sure that it is what you ordered and without defects. If you accept the transfer, the gun is consider used and you will have to deal with the manufacturer’s warranty. For the best combination of price, warranty, and customer service you should consider shopping with a company that has a retail site.
Once you have your gun, you should practice shooting from a variety of positions. Make sure to wear your hunting boots and gloves to get an idea of your mobility while you are hunting.
Learn Elk 101
Aside from purchasing your weapon of choice, it is important to study up about the daily habits of bull elk, the area you will be hunting, and the best strategies for harvesting one. You’ll read how they eat in the morning, take a nap, walk around and repeat this cycle throughout the day. They also move in response to calls by other elk, especially females. Since elk habits don’t always follow this textbook pattern, you’ll have to scout the specific https://ammoshopinc.com/product/hornady-american-whitetail-30-06-springfield-150-grain-interlock-sp-500-rounds/ elk you’re aiming for once you get at the hunting site or hire a hunting guide experienced in hunting game in the area.
Elk hunting involves a lot of hiking, crouching in camouflage areas, waiting until a male elk gets in a good position to aim at him, and repositioning yourself to shoot. Hunters in good physical shape have a better chance of success, so in the months before your trip, work on building your strength and endurance.
Consider a Hunting Outfitter
For many hunters, especially those searching for a trophy animal, one of the best ways to enjoy your elk hunt is to book a trip through a hunting outfitter. A quality hunting company will make all arrangements for lodging, meals, field dressing, and guide your hunt.
Since elk live in several Western states, you can find companies that offer the service in the state where you want to go by simply doing an Internet search of the state name and the keywords “elk hunting outfitter.” When selecting a professional to work with, make sure to get references and information about the number and quality of the elk that people have harvested in past seasons.
Even if you are an experienced hunter, there are guided hunts that can still be a good match for you and your skill level. Whether you want a rustic experience or one that offers amenities when you’re not hunting, there is a perfect hunt for you.
Jill Smith is a writer and researcher. She is the Director of Digital Content Marketing for Be Locally SEO where she enjoys helping clients expand and improve their businesses through articles, blogs, website content and more.
