I will have 33 points going into the draw next year. Although that is two points off max, I don't count the remaining 10-12 with max points (35) as they are only applying for the top units. I believe there are still some 200 above me with 34 points, plus at least 275+ with the same points as...
I have been reloading for more than 30 years. I have reloading books going back to the 1980's. As a general rule, what I have seen over the years is that max recommended loads have been declining. Some say that we now have better ways of measuring pressure. While that is a possibility, I...
Reloading the 6.5 PRC will give you better bullet selection with powder combinations. If you plan on shooting longer distances, then go with the 156 gr. Berger. If shots never go more than 400 yds., then I would choose the Barnes 127 gr. TTSX.
For my 6.5 PRC barrel, the best over-all accuracy was found with the Matrix 160 gr. VLD. They are rare as hens teeth now adays, but you can still find some listed for sale now and then.
PVA did my 22 CM. Great barrel and shoots lights out.
You don't mention whether the spiral flutes are a weight-saving measure or just a great look. If the intent is weight savings, then another option would be a carbon fiber, shoulder pre-fit barrel from Oregon Mountain Rifles. The can make...
You owe it to yourself to at least look through the Sightron SIII scope. Their lower end scopes are not worth your time, but the SIII series have great glass - at least as good as the better Leupold scopes, and their turrets are superior to most in the same price range. They have great...
I got skunked again this year. 33 points and counting towards a resident tag. Next year's draw should move me into the 5%-7% chance of getting drawn for what I consider to be second-tier units. By the time I get above 50% draw odds, I will probably be too old to get up the mountain after them.
Coues are very skittish - more so than your typical whitetail. They are nervous all the time as they tend to be hunted by many different predators out here in AZ. Shots tend to be taken at longer distances, so practice your dialing for distance and wind.
Bring the best optics you can. Mount...
The deer are few and really spread out. You can go days without seeing a mature buck, but there are some big ones in there - or at least moving through the transition zone once snow hits the plateau.