WOW!!!! I see my thread got derailed yesterday while I was away.
I may be new to elk hunting, but I'm not new to shooting past 100 yards. I can assure you I'm not sighting my rifle in 6" high at 100. If I have time to use my range finder, I have time to dial or better yet, pick a hash mark. Out to 400 or a little more, I can simply use hold-over. It's not that hard to estimate 18 or 20 inches when you know the approx. size of your target. I've done it on deer many times and an elk is twice as big. I'm not gonna shoot at an animal past 300ish that I haven't ranged or otherwise know the distance. I have too much respect for the game to just shoot at anything I see and hope my rifle trajectory is "flat enough" to make a hit. I can only assume that the reason for using that method is based on not ranging and not knowing the distance.
Originally Posted by country_20boy
Which load would you use, assuming I may have to reach out to 400 or beyond?
Since everyone was making assumptions about the intent of this statement, I'll clear it up. I was asking about the 7mm-08 performance, retained energy and velocity at 400 and beyond for the 2 bullets I was considering. It had nothing to do with how to make a shot at that range. I assume if my bullet will perform at 400, it will be fine for closer range. And for the record, I hope I get a 40 yard shot, but I know I need to be prepared for 400.
You sound like you have it under control and know what you are talking about. You'll do just fine with that 7mm08. I have faith, whether it is 40 or 400 yards, you'll make sound judgment. Sounds like you already know this, but most elk are shot well within 100 yards and I'm thinking you are smart enough to NOT shoot at moving elk in the trees at 400 yards. I wish you good luck on your hunt and hope you get a good one with that 7mm08...
Originally Posted by raybass
I try to stick with the basics, they do so well. Nothing fancy mind you, just plain jane will get it done with style.
Originally Posted by Pharmseller
You want to see an animal drop right now? Shoot him in the ear hole.
