Practice Practice makes perfect

[Short Track]

Before my Elk hunt, I sat at the range for hours. Just the bench. Shooting from 100 - 400. Holding over for 250 and beyond. It really made me one with my rifle.

When my Elk came in at 180 yards, I didn't even zoom in. Just completely zoomed out, aimed and pulled the trigger. Cycled the bolt, pulled the trigger. (4 times).

Even though my heart was pounding out of my chest, it just came naturally after sitting at the bench so many hours.

I was glad to see all 4 shots went through the lungs. All that practice really paid off.

 

[PredatoronthePrairie]

Took 4 rounds at 180?

Didn't know they were cape buffalo strong.

 

[Short Track]

I shoot till they are down. I'm not chasing Elk at 9000'. But yes, copper TTSX does not expand well.... I have learned.

 

[Antares]

Was it hard work carrying the bench with you or did you drag it on a sled?

Kidding.

 

[Short Track]

Was it hard work carrying the bench with you or did you drag it on a sled?

Very easy actually. The blind had a rest. Nice 2x4 running across as the window sill. Perfect bench rest, with a nice chair inside the blind.

 

[Antares]

I didn’t see that one coming.

 

[Rocky723]

This is exactly what I highly encourage any of my friends to do before hunts learn how your rifle shoots at different distances with hold over instead of using your dials(if you have any on your scope). It helps you visualize where the bullet is going and has helped me so much in stressful and quick shooting situations. And if you want some really good practice go and smoke some coyotes in the offseason.

 

[Laelkhunter]

Very easy actually. The blind had a rest. Nice 2x4 running across as the window sill. Perfect bench rest, with a nice chair inside the blind.

What cartridge were you shooting?

 

[Laelkhunter]

Took 4 rounds at 180?

Didn't know they were cape buffalo strong.

I wonder if it was a .243 (his Avatar has me thinking). It would explain the multitude of rounds expended.

 

[doc holiday13]

A 243 should be able to put a 6mm bullet to 180 yards more than fast enough to make even Barnes TTSX to xpand

 

[eddielasvegas]

Good reminder and I need to get my be-hind to the range.


Eddie

 

[GSPHUNTER]

I have put down three Elk with one shot each. 120, 170, and 480 yards with 300 win. mag 180 gr. TTSX. I don't fault guys who shot until they drop. I just have never had that situation. double lung on all Elk, lights out Margret.

 

[Scoot]

Didn't know they were cape buffalo strong.

Not Black Death tough, but they can be damn reluctant to die. OP was wise to keep pumping rounds in him if he was still on his feet!

 

[Zeke6951]

I have always heard it, "Perfect practice makes perfect."

 

[Antares]

"Don't practice until you get it right. Practice until you can't get it wrong."

 

[trophyhill]

One with your weapon is a great feeling isn't it? That’s when confidence is at its peak and prey better beware.