Long Range Pursuit | S4 E6 High Elevation Pronghorn

Published on February 19, 2018
Duration: 22:00

This video details a high-elevation pronghorn hunt, emphasizing long-range shooting techniques and the importance of proper firearm maintenance. It includes a step-by-step guide on disassembling and cleaning a rifle bolt, crucial for reliable function in harsh conditions. The hunt highlights challenges like wind and altitude, showcasing the application of rangefinders and ballistic calculations for successful shots.

Quick Summary

High-elevation pronghorn hunting involves challenges like thinner air and wind gradients. Proper rifle bolt maintenance is crucial; clean internal components with solvent and reassemble with precise lubrication to prevent malfunctions. Be aware of potential bullet failures where projectiles may not expand on impact.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to High Elevation Hunt
  2. 01:51Hunting at 9,500 Feet
  3. 03:28Pronghorn Sighting at 10,000 Feet
  4. 04:30Assessing Pronghorn Bucks
  5. 05:32Day Two Hunt Strategy
  6. 06:30Setting Up for a Long Shot
  7. 07:38Understanding Wind Gradients
  8. 09:21Successful 900-Yard Shot
  9. 10:32Retrieving the Trophy
  10. 11:41Rifle Bolt Disassembly and Cleaning
  11. 14:30Bolt Reassembly and Lubrication
  12. 16:31Second Pronghorn Hunt Attempt
  13. 18:05Spotting More Pronghorn
  14. 19:41Bullet Failure Incident
  15. 20:38Post-Hunt Analysis

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key challenges of hunting pronghorn at high elevations?

Hunting pronghorn at high elevations (9,500-10,000+ feet) presents challenges like thinner air, which affects ballistics and shooter performance, and significant wind variations. Animals may also migrate due to weather changes like snow, making them harder to locate.

How does wind gradient affect long-range shooting?

Wind gradient refers to the difference in wind speed at various heights. Wind is typically stronger at higher elevations due to fewer obstructions, while closer to the ground, obstacles like trees reduce wind speed. This difference must be accounted for when doping wind for accurate long-range shots.

What is the proper procedure for cleaning a rifle bolt?

Proper bolt cleaning involves disassembling the bolt, thoroughly cleaning internal components with solvent to remove debris and old lubricant, and then reassembling with a light application of oil and grease on specific contact points like lugs and threads.

What can cause a bullet to fail to expand on impact?

Bullet failure to expand can occur if the bullet's construction is not suited for the impact velocity or angle, or if there's a manufacturing defect. This can result in the bullet passing through the animal without causing sufficient tissue damage, even if placed correctly.

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