Tom Gresham's Gun Talk - 11.24.13 Part B

Published on November 27, 2013
Duration: 44:45

This episode of Gun Talk features a discussion on appropriate calibers and ethical considerations for hunting, particularly for larger game like elk. Host Tom Gresham emphasizes the importance of understanding a firearm's ballistic limitations and the hunter's own skill level when attempting long-range shots. He advocates for hunters to be proficient at closer ranges and to prioritize humane kills, suggesting a practical test of hitting a 9-10 inch target consistently at the intended hunting distance. The conversation also touches on the misuse of firearms in statistics and the importance of responsible gun ownership.

Quick Summary

For hunting elk at distances of 400 yards or more, calibers such as the .270, .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, 7mm Remington Magnum, or .300 Winchester Magnum are recommended. These cartridges offer the necessary velocity, energy, and flatter trajectory for ethical long-range shots, unlike the .44-40 Winchester which is best suited for ranges around 100 yards.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Sponsor Spotlights
  2. 00:35Gun Talk Website & Call-in Information
  3. 01:20Doctor's Questions About Gun Ownership
  4. 02:36Caller: .44-40 Winchester for Elk Hunting
  5. 04:47Pet Peeve: Long-Range Hunting Ethics
  6. 06:24Importance of Laser Rangefinders
  7. 08:13Mossberg MVP Rifles
  8. 08:45Ammo To Go Advertisement
  9. 09:15GunTalkTV.com Training Resources
  10. 10:26Smith & Wesson Bodyguard Pistols
  11. 11:18Bore-Tips Gun Cleaning Swabs
  12. 11:54Gun Talk Poll
  13. 12:11Twitter Discussion on Doctor Visits
  14. 12:44Caller: Model 88 Winchester Discussion
  15. 15:16Caller: Clarence in Beaver, Utah (No Response)
  16. 15:32Caller: Bow Hunting vs. Rifle Hunting Experience
  17. 19:54Caller: .45-70 Government for Deer Hunting
  18. 22:00Upcoming Guest: Lt. Col. Robert K. Brown
  19. 22:59Gun Talk Continues
  20. 23:21Interview: Lt. Col. Robert K. Brown (Soldier of Fortune)
  21. 32:04Ruger SR45 Pistol
  22. 32:39Liberty Safe Alert System
  23. 33:37Nosler Defense Ammunition
  24. 34:09Fighting with the 1911 DVD
  25. 35:09GalleryOfGuns.com
  26. 35:39Crimson Trace Holiday Sale
  27. 36:20Call-in & Email Information
  28. 36:32Lt. Col. Brown Discusses Travels & Soldier of Fortune
  29. 37:45Colorado Recall Efforts Update
  30. 41:45Caller: .30 Caliber Carbine for Deer Hunting
  31. 44:00Upcoming: Hunting Ammunition & Bullets

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the effective range of a .44-40 Winchester Model 92 for hunting?

The .44-40 Winchester cartridge, especially in a Model 92 rifle, is generally considered a 100-yard firearm. It is not recommended for hunting larger game like elk at distances beyond this range due to its limited velocity and ballistic performance.

What calibers are recommended for hunting elk at longer distances?

For hunting elk at distances of 400 yards or more, calibers such as the .270, .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, 7mm Remington Magnum, or .300 Winchester Magnum are recommended. These cartridges offer the necessary velocity, energy, and flatter trajectory for ethical long-range shots.

How can a hunter determine their ethical shooting range?

A practical method is to consistently hit a 9-10 inch target at the intended hunting distance. If you cannot reliably place all your shots within this circle, that distance is beyond your effective range for ethical hunting.

Why are laser rangefinders important for hunters?

Laser rangefinders are crucial because human judgment of distance can be inaccurate, even for experienced hunters. They provide precise distance measurements, helping hunters make informed decisions about whether a shot is ethical and achievable, preventing wounded game.

Are .45-70 Government cartridges suitable for deer hunting?

Yes, the .45-70 Government is suitable for deer hunting, especially with modern ammunition like Hornady's 'LeverEvolution' which features pointed bullets for a flatter trajectory. It's effective out to approximately 200 yards for whitetail deer.

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