EP 205: The Jim Bonnano Journey

Published on April 6, 2026
Duration: 39:52

This episode features Jim Banano's extensive big game hunting journey, focusing on his pursuit of the North American Grand Slam of Sheep. He shares detailed accounts of his hunts for Stone Sheep in British Columbia, Desert Bighorn Sheep in Mexico, and Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep in Alberta, highlighting the challenges, successes, and lessons learned. The discussion also touches upon long-range shooting techniques, rifle confidence, and the mental fortitude required for demanding hunts.

Quick Summary

Jim Banano's hunting journey includes achieving the North American Grand Slam of Sheep, utilizing a 7mm SAUM rifle with 162-grain Barnes bullets. He emphasizes that confidence, built through training like Gunwerks' LRU courses, is crucial for successful long-range shooting and ethical harvests.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Long Range Pursuit Podcast
  2. 00:19Jim Banano's Hunting Journey Begins
  3. 01:05First Elk Hunt Experience
  4. 02:09Attending Gunwerks Long Range School
  5. 03:41Reasons for Attending LRU
  6. 05:23Grand Slam Accomplishment: Dall Sheep Hunt
  7. 06:26Rifle and Ammunition Details
  8. 07:13First Day at Long Range University (LRU)
  9. 08:39Hit Probability and Confidence
  10. 09:21Stone Sheep Hunt in British Columbia
  11. 13:14Desert Bighorn Sheep Hunt in Mexico
  12. 15:03Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep Hunt in Alberta
  13. 18:47Future Hunts: Spring Bear Hunt with Son
  14. 19:52Discussion on Wind in Long Range Shooting
  15. 22:00Mental Hurdles in Long Range Shooting
  16. 24:19Applying Training in the Field: Confidence
  17. 27:04The Importance of Confidence in Shooting
  18. 29:52Dealing with Bad Shooting Days
  19. 31:16Baseline Rifle Accuracy Expectations
  20. 33:15Biggest Hurdles: Physical and Mental
  21. 36:33Closing Thoughts on LRU and Future Hunts
  22. 38:06Skills to Improve: Watching the Shot and Second Shots
  23. 38:47Appreciation and Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the North American Grand Slam of Sheep?

The North American Grand Slam of Sheep is an achievement for hunters who successfully harvest four distinct species of wild sheep: the Stone Sheep, Dall Sheep, Rocky Mountain Bighorn Sheep, and Desert Bighorn Sheep. It represents a significant challenge due to the varied and often remote habitats of these animals.

What rifle caliber and bullet did Jim Banano use for his sheep hunts?

Jim Banano primarily used a 7mm SAUM caliber rifle, loaded with a 162-grain Barnes bullet, for his successful sheep hunts. This combination proved effective for the distances and game encountered.

How important is confidence in long-range shooting?

Confidence is paramount in long-range shooting. It's developed through training and experience, enabling hunters to trust their equipment, their data, and their ability to make ethical shots, even when facing challenging conditions like wind.

What are the key takeaways from attending a long-range shooting school like Gunwerks LRU?

Attending a long-range shooting school provides essential knowledge on ballistics, wind compensation, rifle mechanics, and shot execution. It builds confidence, teaches hunters to understand their capabilities, and helps them overcome mental blocks associated with shooting at distance.

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