This hunt was top secret....

Published on December 7, 2025
Duration: 19:42

This video details the setup and strategy for a deer hunt in Illinois using a Thompson/Center Encore rifle chambered in 350 Legend with a carbon fiber barrel. It covers sighting in with Hornady American Whitetail Tipped ammunition, a specific ballistics strategy for optimal range estimation, and tactical considerations during the peak rut. The expert instruction highlights successful harvests and equipment performance.

Quick Summary

The Thompson/Center Encore in 350 Legend, when zeroed 1 inch high at 100 yards with a muzzle velocity of 2200 fps, provides a 'dead on' hold from 0 to 150 yards, requiring only a slight hold-over at 200 yards. Hornady American Whitetail Tipped ammunition is recommended for its effective performance on deer.

Chapters

  1. 00:20Gear Introduction: T/C Encore 350 Legend
  2. 00:49Sighting In: Hornady 350 Legend Ammo
  3. 01:14Ballistics Strategy: 0-200 Yard Holdover
  4. 02:21Opening Day Strategy: Peak Rut Hunting
  5. 05:28Field Success Reports: 350 Legend Performance
  6. 09:30Tactical Adjustment: Wind & Blind Relocation
  7. 12:04The Harvest: 9-Point Buck Takedown
  8. 17:12Recovery & Reflection: Successful Hunt

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective range strategy for a T/C Encore in 350 Legend zeroed for deer hunting?

With a 100-yard zero set 1 inch high, the T/C Encore in 350 Legend offers a 'dead on' hold for distances from 0 to 150 yards. For ranges around 200 yards, a slight hold-over will be necessary to compensate for the bullet's trajectory.

What ammunition is recommended for the 350 Legend in the T/C Encore for deer hunting?

The video recommends Hornady American Whitetail Tipped ammunition for the 350 Legend. This specific bullet type is highlighted for providing explosive performance and effective knockdown power on deer.

How does the Illinois deer season influence hunting strategy?

The Illinois gun season, particularly when coinciding with the peak rut, creates high anticipation. The strategy focuses on monitoring areas with high buck activity, where mature bucks are actively searching for the last remaining does.

What tactical adjustments were made during the hunt?

Due to shifting winds, a tactical move was made from an initial stand to a Grizzly blind near a cornfield. This adjustment aimed to position the hunter in the path of a specific target buck known to frequent the area.

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