Cooper 22ML testing continued

[dirtytough]

I don’t think a bipod is necessary for close shots. (200 yards or less) But it is nice to have. You are just steadier with one. The biggest buck I have killed was with a rifle about 225 yards. There was definite excitement going on and I was rock solid using a bipod.

The javelin is definitely lightweight enough I throw it in just because I would rather have it and not need it than need it and not have it. I also made an adapter to fit my tripod. It wouldn’t be good for long range but for closer range shots where you can’t get a rest it worked really well.

Regards, Branden

 

[Will_TXHunter]

Good input Branden on bipods - majorly debating getting one like the Javelin and have been for a few years. Thanks. I have been using folding shooting sticks. They sort of work for truck based hunts here in Texas where I can carry lots of gear. In 2015 I shot a mountain mulie about 4 miles into the backcountry off of a single walking stick. I used my thumb to support it and feel that I had a good rest there. My heart was pounding though and it was only a whopping 90 yard shot but he kept moving forward and putting his body behind the brush, so I had to shuffle a few feet with him multiple times as well to get the shot. My only mule deer so far.

Getting married in 30 days and trying to figure what gear I absolutely need right now before I have to negotiate for it later.

 

[CBECK61]

Great thread. I picked up a Cooper ML a few years ago and instantly fell in love. Looks like you had good success with the power belt but if you are looking for another bullet you might try the Harverster Sabertooth. I shoot the 270gr through my gun with great success. Same design to the power belt but I personally think its a better bullet and it certainly shoots better in my gun. I have done a ton of Sabot test in my gun and the Harvester Ballistic scorpion do well and the parker ballistic extremes do really really well if your really trying to strech the range of a modern muzzle loader. The parker match hunters shot the best but I can justify the price.

Congrats on the deer.

 

[dirtytough]

Good input Branden on bipods - majorly debating getting one like the Javelin and have been for a few years. Thanks. I have been using folding shooting sticks. They sort of work for truck based hunts here in Texas where I can carry lots of gear. In 2015 I shot a mountain mulie about 4 miles into the backcountry off of a single walking stick. I used my thumb to support it and feel that I had a good rest there. My heart was pounding though and it was only a whopping 90 yard shot but he kept moving forward and putting his body behind the brush, so I had to shuffle a few feet with him multiple times as well to get the shot. My only mule deer so far.

Getting married in 30 days and trying to figure what gear I absolutely need right now before I have to negotiate for it later.

Bipods are awesome when you can use them. That's why I like the Javelin. Its light enough its not a huge weight penalty even if not used.

Great thread. I picked up a Cooper ML a few years ago and instantly fell in love. Looks like you had good success with the power belt but if you are looking for another bullet you might try the Harverster Sabertooth. I shoot the 270gr through my gun with great success. Same design to the power belt but I personally think its a better bullet and it certainly shoots better in my gun. I have done a ton of Sabot test in my gun and the Harvester Ballistic scorpion do well and the parker ballistic extremes do really really well if your really trying to strech the range of a modern muzzle loader. The parker match hunters shot the best but I can justify the price.

Congrats on the deer.

Thanks. And thanks for the info on the different bullets. I applied for more muzzleloader tags around the west this year then I ever have in the past. Probably at least 50% were muzzy apps. Haven't drawn any yet but I still plan on getting more and more familiar with muzzle loaders and the different powder and projectile combo's available.

 

[CBECK61]

Bipods are awesome when you can use them. That's why I like the Javelin. Its light enough its not a huge weight penalty even if not used.



Thanks. And thanks for the info on the different bullets. I applied for more muzzleloader tags around the west this year then I ever have in the past. Probably at least 50% were muzzy apps. Haven't drawn any yet but I still plan on getting more and more familiar with muzzle loaders and the different powder and projectile combo's available.

I've really enjoyed the muzzy hunts it's a nice balance between drawing tags and having good oppurtiutis to harvest. I've help a few guys set up their coopers and testing a few different primers to which seal the best. Most of the guns have done the best or really well with the winchester 209 but I tell guys to buy all of them they can find and shoot 3-5 of each through their gun. There will usually be a clear winner and loser