Thanks, fellas!
This was my first bull, and it made an impression on me after spending 5 hours and as many disposable skinning blades quartering and hanging the meat. Much bigger task and animal than my previous cows.
The fact that the bullet didn’t exit with a broadside shot between ribs was underwhelming to say the least. After seeing the size of his shoulder bones, I doubt I would’ve recovered him with a quartering toward shot.
As soon as I got off the mountain, I went to the same Walmart I bought my tag at and purchased the same rifle in 450 Bushmaster. I look forward to carrying it with Buffalo Bore 275gr Barnes on board going forward.
I’ll hang onto the 300 BLK for my son to learn with on deer and cow elk.
Tracks, I want to compliment you on how you've handled yourself on this thread given some fairly stout criticism from a few here. You remained respectful. I also want to thank you for your honest reporting after the hunt. Again, congrats and best of luck on future hunts.
I echo Brad's compliments here. I would have told the whole group to fuuck off or eat crow after posting pics.
I didn't think your choice was a bad one for close-range shots, but I saw an increased likelihood for a rodeo. It didn't happen. Good job on getting a good bull with your chosen tool. It really is the Indian, far more than the arrow, regardless of the opinions of grumpy old men.
Now, handload that Bushmaster to REAL pressures, and show off your next bull!
I should add that among the animals I've hunted, that is likely a 3.5 yo bull.
