Choosing the Right Rifle for Elk Hunting
Choosing an elk hunting rifle is as personal as choosing a good pair of boots or a good coat. The “fit” is important, how it fits to your body, its optimum shooting range, caliber and other factors. This isn’t like going out back with your trusty 22 and shooting a couple of rabbits. This is a whole different ball game and you need a good rifle. Elk may be rather large targets, but that doesn’t mean you will necessarily get near one. You should count on long range shooting instead of banking on the off chance you are going to get up close and personal with one.
You should also keep in mind that elk are large animals with a strong survival instinct. Bull elk are known for traveling pretty good distances even after taking a lethal shot. Because of this, you really want a rifle that you can get two quick shots out. Ideally, you want to take a lung shot first and a quick follow up (even if it is just a meat shot, better to lose a little meat than have your bull disappear after the first shot). You need a rifle that can handle that quick action. So, as you shop, keep these things in mind.
Caliber – When it comes to what is best for elk hunting, everyone has their own opinion. It really comes down to personal preference. The 30.06 is probably the most popular because hunters have more choices when it comes to ammunition and, well, it has proven itself in the field. Other calibers that are good choices include the .338, 7 or 8 mm as well as the 340 Weatherby Mag and 338 Remington Ultra Mags.
Stock Length – Stock length is another important factor to consider. The stock length is particular crucial for larger men or women. If a stock is too short, on recoil the person could wind up getting smacked in the face with the stock or hit with the scope.
Check the “drop” which is the distance between your cheek and the stock. You want your shooting eye to fall in line with the sites when your cheek is against the stock. If the drop is too great you won’t be able to get your cheek where it is supposed to be and not only will your shooting be compromised, you could get hurt.
Weight – Most rifles that are used for hunting weigh in at somewhere between six and nine pounds. While the guns that fall to the lighter side may be easier to carry, a heavier gun is going to be easier to hold steady, they tend to be more accurate for long range shooting and have less recoil.
Barrel – If you are using a shotgun (some areas do not allow rifle hunting), choose one with a rifled barrel as opposed to a smoothbore shotgun. They are more accurate. A rifled barrel causes the slug to spin, stabilizing it so that you can get more accurate shots as far as 100 yards.
Sights – For elk hunting, choose a good scope or special sights designed specifically for deer and elk hunting. Your sights will help you lock in that kill shot and the follow up. Sight it in at about 200 yards.
Construction – Construction is very important when it comes to your rifle. Elk hunting and tracking animals, is tough not just on you. Your rifle also takes a beating. It gets banged around on your horse or four-wheeler; it is exposed to the weather and even strapped to your back. While the wood stocks and blue metal are still popular among hunters, synthetic and stainless steel are hardier and stand up better to the abuse that elk hunting puts them through. They may not be pretty, but they do a heck of a job.