Best Caliber for Elk Hunting | Full Guide

Published on June 2, 2023
Duration: 18:10

This guide from American Outlaw provides expert advice on selecting the best rifle caliber for elk hunting, emphasizing the need for powerful cartridges capable of ethical takedowns at extended ranges. The instructor, with decades of experience, recommends magnum calibers like the 300 PRC and 28 Nosler, explaining their effectiveness in various hunting scenarios and their ability to handle challenging shots and potential human error. The video also touches on practical hunting tips, such as rangefinding and shot placement, and advises on managing recoil for consistent accuracy.

Quick Summary

For elk hunting, magnum calibers like the 300 PRC and 28 Nosler are highly recommended due to their superior power, energy, and ballistic performance. These cartridges offer greater forgiveness on challenging shots and ensure ethical takedowns of large game, especially when compared to smaller calibers like the 6.5 Creedmoor which have less margin for error.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Elk Hunting Season
  2. 00:36Instructor's Extensive Elk Hunting Experience
  3. 01:43Evolution of Hunting Methods: Bows to Muzzleloaders to Rifles
  4. 02:11What Caliber to Use for Elk Hunting
  5. 03:01Recommendation: Magnum Calibers for Elk
  6. 03:24Reasons for Choosing Magnum Cartridges
  7. 04:04Importance of Rangefinding in Mountainous Terrain
  8. 04:40Hunting Tip: Utilizing Water Holes
  9. 05:01Pre-Ranging Hunting Areas
  10. 05:30Understanding Shot Angles and Bullet Performance
  11. 06:26Big Magnums and Bullet Performance on Bad Hits
  12. 07:04Ethics of Shot Placement vs. Bullet Power
  13. 08:16Ensuring Rifle and Optic Accuracy
  14. 08:26Field Conditions and Shooting Challenges
  15. 09:04Variability of Hunting Conditions
  16. 09:15Unexpected Encounters and Quick Shots
  17. 09:48Gun Setup for Follow-Up Shots
  18. 10:03Tip #2: The Importance of Follow-Up Shots
  19. 10:32Example of a Follow-Up Shot on an Elk
  20. 11:15Elk's Toughness and Ability to Absorb Shots
  21. 11:326.5 Creedmoor Limitations for Elk
  22. 12:05Instructor's Top Recommendations for Elk Calibers
  23. 12:17Avoiding Overkill: When You Don't Need Extreme Magnums
  24. 12:38Recoil Management for Hunters
  25. 13:58Recommended Calibers: 7 PRC and 300 PRC
  26. 14:26Success with 300 PRC and Hornady ELDX
  27. 15:29Another Great Option: The 28 Nosler
  28. 16:0628 Nosler's Ballistic Capabilities
  29. 16:51Summary of Top Caliber Choices
  30. 17:46Final Advice and Link to Caliber Guide

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best calibers for elk hunting?

For elk hunting, magnum calibers are highly recommended. Top choices include the 300 PRC and the 28 Nosler, known for their power, ballistic performance, and ability to ethically harvest large game at extended ranges. While smaller calibers can work, they offer less margin for error on challenging shots.

Why are magnum calibers preferred for elk hunting over smaller cartridges like 6.5 Creedmoor?

Magnum calibers provide greater energy and penetration, which is crucial for ethical elk hunting. They offer more forgiveness on shots that aren't perfectly broadside, can handle longer distances with more retained energy, and are better suited for breaking down large, tough animals like elk, especially if a follow-up shot is needed.

What are some practical tips for elk hunting?

Key tips include constantly using rangefinding binoculars to accurately assess distances, as terrain can be deceiving. Elk frequently visit water sources at dusk, making them prime hunting spots. Always be prepared for follow-up shots, as elk are tough and can absorb significant damage before falling.

How should hunters manage recoil when using powerful magnum rifles?

It's recommended to practice throughout the year with rifles chambered in more manageable calibers like 6.5 Creedmoor or .308. This builds shooting proficiency without developing a flinch. The magnum hunting rifle should be reserved for actual hunts, where adrenaline can help mitigate perceived recoil.

What specific rifle calibers does the instructor recommend for elk?

The instructor strongly recommends the 300 PRC, particularly with Hornady's 212gr ELDX ammunition, and the 28 Nosler, suggesting a 175gr bullet. These calibers offer excellent ballistic coefficients, high velocities, and the necessary terminal performance for ethical elk harvests.

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