Arizona GMU 9 Late Season Rifle

[reckon]

I won the lottery this year and got drawn for a bull elk on my very first application (rifle). I have 1 javelina hunt and 1 bear hunt under my belt and that’s it. I’ll be bringing some experienced friends along, but none with any time in Unit 9 so I figured I’d jump on here and see if anyone in the infosphere has gotten any time in that unit that might have some useful insights. Any late season rifle tips are always welcome of course.
Lastly, if I find the time, I’d like to get a solid .308 load nailed down for my rifle, but as a backup, factory ammo suggestions would be nice to know too. For reference, my rifle has a very heavy varmint profile and is cut to 16” with another 4” added from my suppressor.

 

[Texasfedoff]

I too drew unit 9 late season but for archery! Definitely will be going over to AZ to scout atleast once before the season and then again a few days before the season. Be nice to have a few spots to use as a starting point.


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[Wapiti1]

I'm no help on unit 9, but I'll comment on your ammo choices.

Since you are running this out of a short barrel, I would suggest Nosler's Trophy Grade 150/165gr Accubond loading, or their 165gr Partition. The 150 will probably get you the best combo of velocity and bullet weight out of the short barrel. Handloading, you should be able to get a good 2600fps 165gr load worked up, and that would be my preference.

Your setup will put down an elk with good shot placement, but I think you are really limiting your effective range. I wouldn't shoot that combo at an elk over 300 yards. AZ bulls are big critters.

IMO, you should avoid a mono-metal bullet like a Barnes, or Trophy Copper from Federal. Cup and core will expand reliably at reduced velocities where the mono's will be at their bottom velocity threshold.

Just a few thoughts.

Jeremy

 

[RyanCmns]

My 308 has a 20" barrel 165,167 grain match black hills or nosler match and it's a tack driver!