Best Cartridge for Each Big Game Animal: My picks

Published on January 13, 2022
Duration: 13:54

This expert guide from Backfire channel's Joseph von Benedict provides specific cartridge recommendations for various big game animals, emphasizing long-range performance and practical ballistics. It details optimal choices for Aoudad, Antelope, Springbuck, Black Bear, Caribou, Deer, and Elk, often favoring modern cartridges like the 6.5 PRC and 6.8 Western for their superior wind drift and energy characteristics. The advice is grounded in extensive hunting experience across diverse terrains.

Quick Summary

Joseph von Benedict, an experienced firearms instructor, recommends specific cartridges for various big game animals. For Aoudad, the 6.8 Western excels in open terrain. For Antelope, the 6.5 PRC offers superior wind drift performance. For Elk, the .300 WSM is favored for its compatibility with short-action rifles and suppressors.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Aoudad Cartridge Selection
  2. 01:23Antelope and Springbuck
  3. 03:09Black Bear Hunting
  4. 05:09Caribou Cartridges
  5. 06:58Coyote and Varmint
  6. 07:24Deer Hunting Scenarios
  7. 09:35Elk: The Dream Team
  8. 11:44Rapid Fire Picks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cartridge for Aoudad hunting?

For Aoudad, the 6.8 Western is the top recommendation due to its superior energy and heavier bullet weight with manageable recoil, making it ideal for long-range performance in open terrain like Wyoming and Texas.

Which cartridge offers the best wind drift performance for Antelope?

The 6.5 PRC is preferred for Antelope and Springbuck hunting because of its superior wind drift performance, with only 8.6 inches of deflection at 300 yards in a 20 mph wind, which is crucial for accuracy in open plains.

Why is the .300 WSM recommended for Elk?

The .300 WSM is the expert's choice for Elk because it enables the use of a short-action rifle with a shorter barrel, which is highly advantageous for mountain hunting, especially when using a suppressor, while still delivering sufficient stopping power.

What are the best cartridges for hunting in Africa?

For African game like Kudu and Zebra, the 7mm Remington Magnum is recommended. For Wildebeest, the .300 Win Mag is suggested for Blue Wildebeest, and the .30-06 Springfield is a viable option for Black Wildebeest.

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