What is the Best Rifle For Elk Hunting?
I’m often asked, what is the best rifle for elk hunting? You could get as many answers to this question as people that you asked. The question could deal with type of rifle, semi-automatic, single shot, or bolt action or what caliber is best for elk.
I want to talk mainly about the different types. There are some larger caliber rifles that are made in semi-automatics but not that many. Semi- automatic rifles have advantages and disadvantages. Semi-autos generally have less recoil when fired because of the blow back action that cycles the new cartridge after the shot.
A second follow up shot can be quicker with the semi auto because the new round is chambered automatically. This insurance of fast follow up shots can make a hunter less careful with the first shot though. Another disadvantage can be that the auto can malfunction due to debris getting into the working mechanism. Snow, dirt and twigs can all cause problems with a semi-automatic so it might not be the best rifle for elk hunting.
Single shot rifles are a more traditional type of rifle and can be extremely accurate. The disadvantage of the single shot is that it takes so long to unload and load for a second or third shot if needed. People who use this type of rifle will keep extra cartridges in a holder on the butt stock and some hold follow up rounds between their fingers.
The best rifle for elk hunting is the bolt action rifle. The bolt action rifle is a tried and true work horse that is very reliable in most hunting conditions. It is very tolerant of extreme weather conditions and is very forgiving of debris. Most bolt actions are very accurate and can be easily customized and improved on. They are easy to carry all day and come in the greatest choice of elk suitable calibers.
The best elk rifle is a bolt action in a caliber of 30-06 or larger, balanced and easy to carry and one you enjoy practicing with and can shoot well.