My Moose Hunting Rifle

Published on September 7, 2025
Duration: 10:40

This guide details building and zeroing a Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter rifle for moose hunting, chambered in 300 Win Mag. It covers selecting appropriate optics and ammunition, with a focus on achieving accuracy through proper zeroing procedures and testing various loads. The instructor emphasizes understanding bullet drop and aiming points for large game like moose.

Quick Summary

For moose hunting, a Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter in 300 Win Mag is recommended, paired with a Leupold VX6 HD 2-12x scope and secure Talley Backcountry rings. Ammunition options like Hornady Outfitter CX (180gr) or Precision Hunter (200gr) are suitable. Zero the rifle at 100 yards, confirm at 200, and always aim below the moose's center line.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Moose Hunting Rifle Build
  2. 00:37Rifle Platform: T/C Encore Pro Hunter
  3. 00:43Caliber: 300 Win Mag
  4. 00:47Barrel Features: 5R Rifling
  5. 01:00Optics: Leupold VX6 HD Scope
  6. 01:14Scope Rings: Talley Backcountry
  7. 01:41Scope Magnification: 2-12x
  8. 02:18Turret Considerations: No Custom CDS
  9. 02:30Reticle: Lighted for Low Light
  10. 02:56Ammunition Options for Moose
  11. 03:18Ammunition 1: Hornady Outfitter CX (180gr)
  12. 03:53Ammunition 2: Hornady Precision Hunter (200gr)
  13. 04:36Ammunition 3: Hornady Superformance CX (165gr)
  14. 05:35Zeroing Procedure: 100 Yards
  15. 05:57Initial Zeroing with Superformance
  16. 06:28Switching to Precision Hunter Ammo
  17. 07:38Testing Outfitter Ammunition
  18. 08:05Outfitter Ammo Performance
  19. 08:46Cold Bore Shot Confirmation
  20. 09:07Final Sight Adjustment
  21. 09:12Aiming Point for Moose
  22. 09:47Confirming Zero at 200 Yards
  23. 10:01Rifle Ready for Hunt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended rifle platform and caliber for moose hunting?

The recommended rifle platform is a Thompson/Center Encore Pro Hunter, chambered in 300 Win Mag. This caliber is considered ideal for large game like moose, elk, and caribou, offering sufficient power and readily available ammunition.

What type of scope and rings are best for a moose hunting rifle?

A Leupold VX6 HD scope with a 2-12x magnification and a lighted reticle is advised for its optical quality and adaptability to low-light conditions. Talley Backcountry rings are recommended for their secure mounting system.

Which ammunition types are suitable for moose hunting with a 300 Win Mag?

Recommended ammunition includes Hornady Outfitter CX (180gr) for its monolithic design and 100% weight retention, Hornady Precision Hunter ELD-X (200gr) for heavier bullet weight, and Hornady Superformance CX (165gr) for potential accuracy benefits based on barrel twist rate.

How should a rifle be zeroed for moose hunting?

Zero the rifle at 100 yards, ensuring accuracy with chosen ammunition. Allow the barrel to cool between shots to simulate cold bore conditions. Confirm the zero at 200 yards and understand that for moose, aiming below center line or in the lower 1/3 of the body is crucial.

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