I've never shot any animal in the backside either. A buddy killed a spike one year using a 30-06 and 180grs. The bull was only 60 yards away or so, but I probably wouldn't have taken the shot.
Acutally, every elk I've killed has been within 30 or 40 yards (maybe 50 yards one time). And all of the ones I've let go (some not-to-shabby 6ptrs), have been within 50 yards or so.
Other than antelope and a couple of mule deer, I don't think I've every killed any big game at over 200 yards.
Still, I want to be ready if some of them bulls, I've been letting go for the past 4 or 5 years have made to 7 or 8.
Friday I will take the rifle out and shoot it at 100, 200, and 300 yards (maybe 400 if I remember to bring a portable target holder) and see if the load will work with my rifle.
smokepole:
I know what you mean about asking a straight forward question and people going off on different tangents. These threads seem to take a life of their own sometimes, but it always makes for some interesting reading.
Good Hunting to All:
