Your Safety segment is spot on! There are a lot of unplanned things that happen on a safari. And I would never want an AD ( accidental discharge ) to be part of them. Especially if I was the one who had it. Edit; 3 years later this video is still timeless.
Your no-nonsense attitude, and deep respect for the African way, and that of our PH's, is noteworthy. Together with your knowledge of Rifles and ballistics, you have my following.
I hate to tell you that I took over 50 buffs with an old .303 Lee. From ww2. It was during the culling because of foot and mouth and that’s how most PHs my age learned. Because of the very inexpensive Polish ammunition I could get the click was fn scary! I gave that old rifle to a family member and he still takes at least 1 Bison a year and a bison is as hard to kill if not harder than a Buff. If the laws didn’t change I would still use that old .303 for all her negativity. I upgraded to 9.3x62 only because of law but found I loved her much more but that’s me. As for the .500NE?i would pick a 416 rem. For me it seems to hit harder than the 500 and is not as expensive as a 416 Rigby. I’m not a PH or PG but sum times a tracker and I would prefer some one using a rifle they are not afraid of. And yes in most Africa countries the 9.3 is the hidden legal round
I am a hunter from Texas and grew up with a gun in my hands for 48 years and have a large gun collection. Never had a caliber larger than a 300 win. Mag or a 45/70 and this was a really good video. Thanks
Bo, the knowledge/minute of your videos is two times higher than anyone else on youtube and four times better than any other gun/hunting videos. Thank you very much.
Great job. This video will definitely help me teach my sons good practices. My issue with teens is that they think they are invincible and know everything. Hearing from someone like you should help them learn better.
THIS is the third time I watch this video. Everytime I find something else to take care by practice and evaluation of my rifles and places I hunt. This video is more the usefull for other type of hunting even in my country.
Safety is paramount. I cant remember the gentleman's name but on a safari, he stepped in front of a 458 and was shot through the right shoulder. Pretty terrifying. I highly recommend your videos ,not just to safari hunters,but to anyone that hunts in groups. Best no nonsense advice I've seen so far 👍👍🎯🎯
The guide didn't step in front of the shot. It was Tim Herald that shot him and he was PH Stu Taylor. Tim basically disregarded all the safety measures told to him. Stu survived but took years before he could go back hunting again
I was a walking safari guide in South Africa, in big 5 country, though we were doing the opposite of hunting i still carried a rifle, by law,a .458 WinMag in my case,minimum calibre is .375 H&H. Your advice is brilliant, excellent video.
I agree on the definition of big bore being 45 and up....and whilst they’re great fun to shoot, you need to be able to shoot them well, and not all can. Ultimately, whilst you do need a minimum for DG, as long as your PH or hunting partner is backing you up, the gun you choose should be one you can shoot accurately, under pressure, and loaded with decent bullets that will penetrate on less than perfect angles. My 500Jeff is fun, but for most large game, I’d take my 375H&H, 416RM or 458Lott in preference.
Outstanding video. I have learned and re-remembered so many things I had forgotten after watching this video. I am planning my first safari for about a year from now. I will rewatch this video many times between now and then. Thank you!
Check out some of my other videos that cover shooting technique and Africa travel as well. Here is a good one: ruclips.net/video/5XXP09xp6x0/видео.htmlsi=VROxdp0nPDBX5kpN
@@desertdogoutdoors1113thank you Desert Dog. I was just re-watching this video again and have just now seen your message and I will watch your other video now. I have learned quite a lot from you and remembered so many other things I had forgotten by watching your videos. I have found your your channel as as one of the most helpful ones out there. Thank you so much for what you’re doing.
a very good and comprehensive video. i hope people who are interested go thru these recommendations before scheduling a trip for dangerous game and, as you say be VERY REASONABLY FIT. if shaky during practice, the extra adrenaline may make the hunt ill considered--get the medivac insurance and don't get a detached retina from all that recoil...
I love these videos, you are one of the few guys that goes into the weeds on some of these details. While i am not in a position for an africa trip rn (active duty got me too broke and busy),but i am trying to get my ducks in a row when i can go. Spent many years hunting deer and hogs with control round feed bolt guns and bigger calibers for those species bc ive read too many safari books and have a bit of a bug the entire idea of it. Recently got a 375 h&h and plan to bear hunt with it to get my feet wet with some more dangerous critters. This kind of content is great.
Another one of your videos that is absolutely outstanding . going on my first dangerous game hunt this summer for a buffalo and I learned so much from this video . keep up the good work and thank you
You are right about the load developpement at the range... Not very pleasant, with a .458 Lott... But the more you shoot, the more you are less likely to flinch... I personnaly don't use the lead sled, I use a shoulder pad... (about 1/4 inch thick) Very informative video! Thanks! Lot of work in this video...
What in Africa can you still use 9.3x62mm Mauser? You've mentioned it was grandfathered in when official caliber limit laws were passed for big game in Africa. Any experience with this caliber?
The .375 Ruger was designed to fired from a shorter barrel, allowing guides or hunters to cut down on weight. It's every bit as effective as the .375 H&H but you're right that the ammo is much harder to find, being a proprietary round. I only ever saw them for sale in Alaska.
Great educational video. Bought a 458 myself. Older ruger. I shot some poly flooring. Like hi fax on on snowmobile rail 1/4 inch thick. 23 sheets it went threw. Was a norma solid. Loooong bullet. Brass
I know this is a few years old, but just a great video. I love the emphasis on safety and fully agree that shooting skills are highly perishable. Good job
excellent common sense approach for your first safari. The section on ammunition is very good, except $10.00 to $15.00 per round is really not expensive when you consider how much time, and money it's taken you to get there. Norma is probably one of the best at any price.
This has been a very informative video about little discussed subjects that are ridiculously important once you are "boots on the ground" and stalking DG! My main takeaway is practice until you've ingrained the movements into your soul and being; have your ducks in a row before you board the plane. Great video, filled with useful tips!
A PH in Zimbabwe told me that a single round of .375 H&H was $60 on the black market. PH’s worry about clients being over gunned and not being proficient in handling their rifles or having sighted in their rifles. DD makes a number of good points including not burdening yourself with a stopping cartridge - that is the PH’s job.
I absolutely agree and myself use a led sled and past recoil shield sighting in and the past recoil attachment hunting. Makes a difference for the big thumper guns. I felt when it was introduced the .416 Remington cartridge would replace the .375 H&H as the one safari caliber. It hasn't yet but is far better than the .375 on dangerous game and with 350 grain bullets can be decent for plains game. The safety rules critical. Your right a nervous hunter is more dangerous than the cape buffalo you after. Always follow the instructions of the professional. I favor and recommend the American system of working the bolt and tell friends keen on hunting nasty critters to practice working the rifle so you don't short stroke that magazine rifle. If hunting here with a lever gun same thing practice working the action. Range work as well. Excellent presentation outstanding advice. Sent to some friends as it answers about all questions a hunter would have, new guy or experienced. I practice off hand and with sticks, you need to be competent with both.
I was one of them. Zeroing in my .300 Wby with 50 pds of weight on my new lead-sled. It literally sheared off one of my new high dollar Leupold scope mounts. Absolutely no movement in the system. Learned the hard way and 25 pds does everything I need to do, with movement in the system.
I have too agree on the Hornady, shot a Kudu cow with a 500gr DGX in 458 Lott and it disintegrated. The idea was to use DGX and DGS solid as follow up, same point of impact. Would not have ended well on Buffalo..... They work well on Impala though, bit expensive, but I'm not risking lives on things that can kill you. Couldn't get Barnes at the time, I'll try the SWIFT's, but getting them is almost as hard as finding reliable electricity in South Africa :) I'm sure others will disagree on the Hornady's, but once is enough for me.
Great video for basic instruction. Agree with pretty much everything, although I think not only this fella but many others under estimate the value and efficiency of a double rifle for dangerous game at DG shooting distances. After having and using one I can honestly say I personally believe they are easier to safely handle, easier to use and manage in the field loading and unloading, and allow much faster follow up shots. As another aside, after working in the firearms industry for 15 years,I wouldn't use any of the cheaper assembly line rifles for dangerous game unless it has been completely gone through by a very competent gunsmith. If you're going to put your life on the line, spend way more than you think you should on a good rifle.
Excellent practical advice which all prospective hunters to Africa should watch twice especially the calibre and rifle setup advice , as an African PH for 20 plus years all I could add to this is to NEVER take a shot you are not comfortable with, no respectable PH would take offence to a hunter asking for a clearer shot or more comfortable rifle rest .
Awesome video I have a 45-70 and a 44 magnum, I had a 500 magnum which I sold. Looking to get a 416 ruger this summer. Great video I love big bores thanks for this video. New subscriber.
Very good vid! I finished my second African plains game hunt 2 weeks ago and leveled everything with my 270, including a blue wildebeest. Now, I’m getting serious! I bought a 458 win mag tonight for Buffalo in 3 years. Prob overkill, but I might eventually do elephant at some point and I don’t wanna buy another gun.
I enjoyed this video. Pretty sound advice. I would say, learn to reload your big bore and practice a lot. You can always by factory ammo for the hunt to be safe. I like to test my reloads by leaving them sit in the hot summer sun and then shooting. Once the barrel is hot, I like to leave a round in the chamber for a while, then shoot it and see how it extracts. I like the 416. To me its just a slight step in recoil from the 375 and significantly less recoil than the 458s I stopped having fun after 3 rounds of 458 lott, but enjoyed longer shooting sessions with the 416s
I’ve owned and loaded for several big bore rifles. If you can’t shoot one well because of the recoil, don’t use it. A flinch will do nothing but wound an animal and something that will come at you, to kill you, you don’t want a bad shot on it. Use what you can shoot accurately. Practice practice and practice some more. A good shot with a .375 is a whole better than a gut shot with a .458 or a .460.
Why are the objectives so narrow (24mm) on lower powered dangerous game scopes? Doesn’t that limit light? Would a 2-7 x with a more normal objective be acceptable on a .375 ? At what time might a rifle, if at all, have all the rounds in the mag and nothing in the chamber? Love your videos so much, I often re-watch and keep in favs…
Do you have any videos on how to properly shoot a big bore rifle, or would consider making one?. For example: stance, shoulder mounting, cheek weld, etc. thank you for your videos.
9:05 I am a novice, so I might be misinformed, but I was under the impression that .416 Rigby ammunition was more readily available than you indicate. Is it possible that things have changed since you last went to Africa and that .416 Rigby has become more popular, perhaps even surpassing .416 Remington Magnum? Thanks.
On my last visit, I went to gun stores in Lusaka and Pretoria. Ironically, the gun store in Lusaka had just about everything but Rigby and Ruger cartridges; they even had a large selection of double rifle cartridges. I was also surprised to see a large selection of 6.5 Creed in Pretoria. At my 2 local gun stores in my town and the biggest store in Los Angeles, there is no Rigby ammo; only 416 Rem and 458 Win. At the 2 closest Bass Pro Shops/ Cabelas, they only stock 416 Rem and 458 Win. What I am noticing in Africa, is that the 458 Lott is really increasing in popularity; especially among PH's. But I wouldn't call 416 Rigby an uncommon cartridge (it's certainly way more popular than 416 Weatherby or Ruger) and seems to be gaining more popularity every year. But with the CZ550 now out of the game, you are going to spend BIG MONEY on a Rigby-chambered rifle, but can still go to any gun store and get a M70 off the shelf chambered in 416RM. Many European hunters that love the Blaser system also shoot the 416RM.
Double rifles are not intended to mount an optic of any kind. For a dangerous game bolt action, I would only use the "Mauser type" action, with a large claw type extractor. I would stay away from the Remington type with the thin stamped sheet metal extractor, they fail, I've had it happen on a rifle less than 5 years old using only factory ammunition.
What are you thoughts on red dot optics like Aimpoint etc., vs a conventional scopes like your Leupold above for dangerous game? My sense is the red dot are improving and becoming more popular, but I appreciate and respect your opinion on these matters. Also, what do you prefer for type of scope covers in the field? Another great video. On the model 70, when on the hunt, do you have your safety in full locked bolt safe or the middle safe position?
Red dot sights are better for shots 50-yards and in, and for shots on running targets (Euro driven hunts). I also prefer red-dots on cartridges with power at 458 Lott levels and above; To eliminate scope bite or scope damage from the recoil. Other than those scenarios, a magnified optic is superior. I don't use scope covers in the field, unless my scope is attached to my pack while hiking. You should always hunt with your gun on full-safe; The middle position is for loading/unloading and chamber-checks.
Great info again, Desert Dog. Excellent and informative info. I will be taking my CZ550 458 LOTT (upgraded by Matrix Gunsmithing) to Mozambique next year for a buffalo hunt. Believe it or not, I actually enjoy shooting it! It's all about shooting technique and practice (on and off sticks) that you so well encourage in your video. I also remember your adage that "its time to man up" when it comes to many of us regarding recoil! :-)
Excellent explanations! Glad you included .375 H & H...very popular up here in Alaska. Great idea to use only 25 lbs with the lead sled. For smaller bore, I shoot of a lead sled with no weight, since the sled alone adds enough pounds for my 300 H &H What are your thoughts on wood versus synthetic stocks? I like your safety focus...
A good synthetic stock (not a cheap injection molded one) will be more durable than a (non-laminated) wood stock. If I was a guide in coastal Alaska, or lived in an environment where I carried my rifle all year - I would definitely prefer a synthetic stock and stainless action. But I will also admit that nothing feels better than a good piece of hand-checkered wood, and for a rifle that goes on a couple hunts a year at most, wood is great. My bear rifle for Alaska is a stainless Model 70 in 375H&H with a laminate stock.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Thanks. I just ordered an HS Precision synthetic stock with aluminum bedding block for my 1976 Remington 700 in .270 Win. My 300 H & H has a mcmillan synthetic stock. All my hunting partners up here in Alaska have synthetic stocks on their big game rifles.
Great video I’m planing my first African safari right now I’m going for the buffalo and taking two rifles a Brno 602 375h&h and a Brno 602 458Lott thanks for all of your tips
That was a really good video I've not been to Africa yet but I hunt bear, lion, and hogs on the ground here in north America and most of the shots are measured in feet not yards so the fundamentals of what your saying I feel without the ability for personal comparisons are very much the same though Africa has always been in my heart to go hunt I'm not sure I'll ever make it there but if I do I'll keep your advise in mind for sure thanks for it
I have heard that the Partition is softer in the nose so that it expands on smaller stuff like CXP2 thin skinned game compared to an A-Frame. I never shot anything with a Partition, hunted with em but never has come together. I did take a whitetail this past November with a Woodleigh 180 gr PP SN out of a Tikka .30-06 and it did not seem to expand well. I cannot confirm for sure but it was a perfect heart shot and the bullet had 100% penetration obviously. The tree behind the deer had 3 spots where it appeared chunks of bullet hit it. Do you have any thoughts on the Scirocco II from Swift? I have a few hundred 150 gr to try in my 7mm Rem Mag.
It looks like u r a pretty big hefty guy for big bore guns but I met guys half ur size with .500x500 and never flinch once above .416 cal I need a butt pad on stock or shoulder pad due to shoulder injury on right side since my army time I like ur videos blessings to you thxs for posting great stuff
Buzz Charlton is probably the most successful current PH when it comes to elephant, and he is probably the shortest/smallest PH in Africa. He shoots his 500NE like a champ. Technique is much more important than size/weight.
MY HUBBY bought a Mauser Bauer bolt action rifle in 375 H&H for $400 back in the 1980's. Sold it years later for $600. NOW, he kicks himself evert time he sees the current prices - $1,000 and UP !
Sage advice on a lot of different aspects to hunting/shooting. Especially the part about safe gun handling when around several other people. Re the Lead Sled, I finally sold mine to someone who could use it more than I did. I never had problems with stocks cracking but I learned early on that POI was/could be vastly different than shooting from field positions. I just ordered some .376" lead bullets to team with Trail Boss powder for inexpensive, low-recoil practice ammo for my new M70 .375 H&H. Years ago Winchester (or Ruger?) made a big-bore pattern rifle but chambered in .223 Rem. Kind of wish I would have bought one. Great video, DD.
Thank you for posting. I noticed a couple of things when you were going through those practice drills. You don't simply snap the safety forward with your thumb before taking the first shot. Is that to prevent an audible "click" before that first shot? Also, when you're topping off the rifle in the heat of the action, you don't pause to remove the loaded cartridge by hand when opening the bolt. Is that to minimize down time during that critical phase of the hunt? More polite term: "consolidate your fecal matter." ISYN. Keep on rockin' in the free world.
Really..you did real hard work in explaining the African hunting process quite precisely. But I'd like to point out one thing you've missed...like I'm a newbie to hunting with lots of friends like me around. So my quest for information is that how do I carry a rifle purchased and owned in America to Africa? What is the process including the legal formalities on both the sides..American as well as African, the transportation of my ownership rifle,with me when I board the airplane from an American airport, etc. Kindly do a separate video if need be. I think everyone like me, along with me would highly appreciate it sir. Thank you.🙂
For the exception of the form 4457 requirement, This is different for every country and every airline. You need to do your own research for the individual country and airline you will be using.
My favourite line out of this video is "A 416 is all you need to really rock a buffalo's world!" 😅 Too true!
Your Safety segment is spot on! There are a lot of unplanned things that happen on a safari. And I would never want an AD ( accidental discharge ) to be part of them. Especially if I was the one who had it.
Edit; 3 years later this video is still timeless.
That Model 70 with the Leupold compact is just plain sexy.
Your no-nonsense attitude, and deep respect for the African way, and that of our PH's, is noteworthy. Together with your knowledge of Rifles and ballistics, you have my following.
I hate to tell you that I took over 50 buffs with an old .303 Lee. From ww2. It was during the culling because of foot and mouth and that’s how most PHs my age learned. Because of the very inexpensive Polish ammunition I could get the click was fn scary! I gave that old rifle to a family member and he still takes at least 1 Bison a year and a bison is as hard to kill if not harder than a Buff. If the laws didn’t change I would still use that old .303 for all her negativity. I upgraded to 9.3x62 only because of law but found I loved her much more but that’s me. As for the .500NE?i would pick a 416 rem. For me it seems to hit harder than the 500 and is not as expensive as a 416 Rigby. I’m not a PH or PG but sum times a tracker and I would prefer some one using a rifle they are not afraid of. And yes in most Africa countries the 9.3 is the hidden legal round
I am a hunter from Texas and grew up with a gun in my hands for 48 years and have a large gun collection. Never had a caliber larger than a 300 win. Mag or a 45/70 and this was a really good video. Thanks
These really are some of the best, educational, and well planned videos on youtube. Great job👍
Great job done.i learnt lot .
Srinivas .G
Bo, the knowledge/minute of your videos is two times higher than anyone else on youtube and four times better than any other gun/hunting videos. Thank you very much.
That was the most well constructed and comprehensive lesson I have ever heard on this subject! You are to be commended Sir!!!
Great job. This video will definitely help me teach my sons good practices. My issue with teens is that they think they are invincible and know everything. Hearing from someone like you should help them learn better.
THIS is the third time I watch this video. Everytime I find something else to take care by practice and evaluation of my rifles and places I hunt. This video is more the usefull for other type of hunting even in my country.
Safety is paramount. I cant remember the gentleman's name but on a safari, he stepped in front of a 458 and was shot through the right shoulder. Pretty terrifying. I highly recommend your videos ,not just to safari hunters,but to anyone that hunts in groups. Best no nonsense advice I've seen so far 👍👍🎯🎯
His name was lott the same guy who invented the 458 lott
A spaniard lost one arm in Mozambique because a client got scared in a buff hunt and shot his ph instado in the arm
I seen that video also, made me sick to my stomach.
The guide didn't step in front of the shot. It was Tim Herald that shot him and he was PH Stu Taylor. Tim basically disregarded all the safety measures told to him. Stu survived but took years before he could go back hunting again
@@Almate3006That was Miguel de Cervantes...in Lepanto...
Like your down to earth no bs videos , plus you are a fan of the great M70 Winchester!
I was a walking safari guide in South Africa, in big 5 country, though we were doing the opposite of hunting i still carried a rifle, by law,a .458 WinMag in my case,minimum calibre is .375 H&H. Your advice is brilliant, excellent video.
I agree on the definition of big bore being 45 and up....and whilst they’re great fun to shoot, you need to be able to shoot them well, and not all can. Ultimately, whilst you do need a minimum for DG, as long as your PH or hunting partner is backing you up, the gun you choose should be one you can shoot accurately, under pressure, and loaded with decent bullets that will penetrate on less than perfect angles. My 500Jeff is fun, but for most large game, I’d take my 375H&H, 416RM or 458Lott in preference.
Excellent organization of well thought out material. Thank you for the tremendous devotion of time to share your learning. Perry Pappous
Very well done. Thank you for sharing! I may never get to Africa, but my mind has been on many safaris. ;-)
You make very good videos. Quite practical. I find myself watching more and more of your videos. Glad I discovered your channel.
Thanks.
Thank you for the kind words.
Outstanding video. I have learned and re-remembered so many things I had forgotten after watching this video.
I am planning my first safari for about a year from now. I will rewatch this video many times between now and then. Thank you!
Check out some of my other videos that cover shooting technique and Africa travel as well. Here is a good one: ruclips.net/video/5XXP09xp6x0/видео.htmlsi=VROxdp0nPDBX5kpN
@@desertdogoutdoors1113thank you Desert Dog. I was just re-watching this video again and have just now seen your message and I will watch your other video now.
I have learned quite a lot from you and remembered so many other things I had forgotten by watching your videos.
I have found your your channel as as one of the most helpful ones out there.
Thank you so much for what you’re doing.
a very good and comprehensive video. i hope people who are interested go thru these recommendations before scheduling a trip for dangerous game and, as you say be VERY REASONABLY FIT. if shaky during practice, the extra adrenaline may make the hunt ill considered--get the medivac insurance and don't get a detached retina from all that recoil...
That was even better the second time around. Thank you.
I love these videos, you are one of the few guys that goes into the weeds on some of these details. While i am not in a position for an africa trip rn (active duty got me too broke and busy),but i am trying to get my ducks in a row when i can go.
Spent many years hunting deer and hogs with control round feed bolt guns and bigger calibers for those species bc ive read too many safari books and have a bit of a bug the entire idea of it.
Recently got a 375 h&h and plan to bear hunt with it to get my feet wet with some more dangerous critters. This kind of content is great.
I am humbled every time I watch your videos, we forget so much detail because of age and experience
Norma Solid and Norma Swift A-Frame in .416 Rigby fit good together.
Another one of your videos that is absolutely outstanding . going on my first dangerous game hunt this summer for a buffalo and I learned so much from this video . keep up the good work and thank you
You are right about the load developpement at the range... Not very pleasant, with a .458 Lott... But the more you shoot, the more you are less likely to flinch... I personnaly don't use the lead sled, I use a shoulder pad... (about 1/4 inch thick) Very informative video! Thanks! Lot of work in this video...
What in Africa can you still use 9.3x62mm Mauser?
You've mentioned it was grandfathered in when official caliber limit laws were passed for big game in Africa. Any experience with this caliber?
The .375 Ruger was designed to fired from a shorter barrel, allowing guides or hunters to cut down on weight. It's every bit as effective as the .375 H&H but you're right that the ammo is much harder to find, being a proprietary round. I only ever saw them for sale in Alaska.
Excellent video, the best big game one I,ve seen with practical advice. you covered everything. From a model 70 fan, just bought a 458!
Great educational video. Bought a 458 myself. Older ruger. I shot some poly flooring. Like hi fax on on snowmobile rail 1/4 inch thick. 23 sheets it went threw. Was a norma solid. Loooong bullet. Brass
I know this is a few years old, but just a great video. I love the emphasis on safety and fully agree that shooting skills are highly perishable. Good job
I am learning so much great information thank you as no one on you tube comes close to your info ....
excellent common sense approach for your first safari. The section on ammunition is very good, except $10.00 to $15.00 per round is really not expensive when you consider how much time, and money it's taken you to get there. Norma is probably one of the best at any price.
Good job….repetition , safe gun handling , mental and physical preparation are keys to success. Keep up the good work !!! Thanks
I always learn something which I like and yet I see something I grew up learning which makes me appreciate this channel so much more
Thank you! Although not a real outdoor activity, watching your video was time well spent!
:-)
This was a great video, thanks very much, from South Africa.
The best educational video I have ever seen. Great job sir.
Agree, great advice. Is the best I,ve watched as well.
This has been a very informative video about little discussed subjects that are ridiculously important once you are "boots on the ground" and stalking DG!
My main takeaway is practice until you've ingrained the movements into your soul and being; have your ducks in a row before you board the plane.
Great video, filled with useful tips!
A PH in Zimbabwe told me that a single round of .375 H&H was $60 on the black market. PH’s worry about clients being over gunned and not being proficient in handling their rifles or having sighted in their rifles. DD makes a number of good points including not burdening yourself with a stopping cartridge - that is the PH’s job.
Good tips that cover lots of ground!
I absolutely agree and myself use a led sled and past recoil shield sighting in and the past recoil attachment hunting. Makes a difference for the big thumper guns. I felt when it was introduced the .416 Remington cartridge would replace the .375 H&H as the one safari caliber. It hasn't yet but is far better than the .375 on dangerous game and with 350 grain bullets can be decent for plains game. The safety rules critical. Your right a nervous hunter is more dangerous than the cape buffalo you after. Always follow the instructions of the professional. I favor and recommend the American system of working the bolt and tell friends keen on hunting nasty critters to practice working the rifle so you don't short stroke that magazine rifle. If hunting here with a lever gun same thing practice working the action. Range work as well. Excellent presentation outstanding advice. Sent to some friends as it answers about all questions a hunter would have, new guy or experienced. I practice off hand and with sticks, you need to be competent with both.
No better advice has ever been given in every aspect.
Another excellent video. You covered almost all the important practical aspects of selecting and using a big bore rifle. Thank you.
Fantastic Video = thank you! Cape Town , RSA
I was one of them. Zeroing in my .300 Wby with 50 pds of weight on my new lead-sled. It literally sheared off one of my new high dollar Leupold scope mounts. Absolutely no movement in the system. Learned the hard way and 25 pds does everything I need to do, with movement in the system.
Excellent job DesertDog, as always very informative.👍
This is extremely good information; thank you.
You're very welcome!
Great video! I learned much today. Good job.
Great job and super valuable information.
Great video. Well thought out.
I have too agree on the Hornady, shot a Kudu cow with a 500gr DGX in 458 Lott and it disintegrated. The idea was to use DGX and DGS solid as follow up, same point of impact. Would not have ended well on Buffalo..... They work well on Impala though, bit expensive, but I'm not risking lives on things that can kill you.
Couldn't get Barnes at the time, I'll try the SWIFT's, but getting them is almost as hard as finding reliable electricity in South Africa :)
I'm sure others will disagree on the Hornady's, but once is enough for me.
Terrific! Great information! Keep up the good work, Sir!
Great video for basic instruction. Agree with pretty much everything, although I think not only this fella but many others under estimate the value and efficiency of a double rifle for dangerous game at DG shooting distances. After having and using one I can honestly say I personally believe they are easier to safely handle, easier to use and manage in the field loading and unloading, and allow much faster follow up shots. As another aside, after working in the firearms industry for 15 years,I wouldn't use any of the cheaper assembly line rifles for dangerous game unless it has been completely gone through by a very competent gunsmith. If you're going to put your life on the line, spend way more than you think you should on a good rifle.
Excellent practical advice which all prospective hunters to Africa should watch twice especially the calibre and rifle setup advice , as an African PH for 20 plus years all I could add to this is to NEVER take a shot you are not comfortable with, no respectable PH would take offence to a hunter asking for a clearer shot or more comfortable rifle rest .
Awesome video I have a 45-70 and a 44 magnum, I had a 500 magnum which I sold. Looking to get a 416 ruger this summer. Great video I love big bores thanks for this video. New subscriber.
Thank you for a terrific video. Very interesting and informative. I hope to some day to put all this info to good use.
The 416 RM and the 458 Lott are real hammers I can't imagine you would need more than that.
Always like your straight to the point no fancy bull jive. Thanks
Very good vid! I finished my second African plains game hunt 2 weeks ago and leveled everything with my 270, including a blue wildebeest. Now, I’m getting serious! I bought a 458 win mag tonight for Buffalo in 3 years. Prob overkill, but I might eventually do elephant at some point and I don’t wanna buy another gun.
I enjoyed this video. Pretty sound advice. I would say, learn to reload your big bore and practice a lot. You can always by factory ammo for the hunt to be safe. I like to test my reloads by leaving them sit in the hot summer sun and then shooting. Once the barrel is hot, I like to leave a round in the chamber for a while, then shoot it and see how it extracts.
I like the 416. To me its just a slight step in recoil from the 375 and significantly less recoil than the 458s I stopped having fun after 3 rounds of 458 lott, but enjoyed longer shooting sessions with the 416s
I’ve owned and loaded for several big bore rifles. If you can’t shoot one well because of the recoil, don’t use it. A flinch will do nothing but wound an animal and something that will come at you, to kill you, you don’t want a bad shot on it. Use what you can shoot accurately. Practice practice and practice some more. A good shot with a .375 is a whole better than a gut shot with a .458 or a .460.
great vid this guy knows his stuff i enjoy his views and opinions keep it happening thanks mate.
This vid is probably more useful and important viewing than anything I've ever seen.
Really enjoyed the video a lot of really useful information thank you
Why are the objectives so narrow (24mm) on lower powered dangerous game scopes? Doesn’t that limit light? Would a 2-7 x with a more normal objective be acceptable on a .375 ? At what time might a rifle, if at all, have all the rounds in the mag and nothing in the chamber?
Love your videos so much, I often re-watch and keep in favs…
Do you have a recommendation on sticks? I see yours has a squeeze/quick release. Great video by the way. Thanks.
I love the Primos gen 3 trigger stick tripod.
Always wondered about that lead sled. Thankyou.
Do you have any videos on how to properly shoot a big bore rifle, or would consider making one?. For example: stance, shoulder mounting, cheek weld, etc. thank you for your videos.
9:05 I am a novice, so I might be misinformed, but I was under the impression that .416 Rigby ammunition was more readily available than you indicate. Is it possible that things have changed since you last went to Africa and that .416 Rigby has become more popular, perhaps even surpassing .416 Remington Magnum? Thanks.
It is pretty easy to find, at least here In the U.S. Brass too for reloading.
On my last visit, I went to gun stores in Lusaka and Pretoria. Ironically, the gun store in Lusaka had just about everything but Rigby and Ruger cartridges; they even had a large selection of double rifle cartridges. I was also surprised to see a large selection of 6.5 Creed in Pretoria. At my 2 local gun stores in my town and the biggest store in Los Angeles, there is no Rigby ammo; only 416 Rem and 458 Win. At the 2 closest Bass Pro Shops/ Cabelas, they only stock 416 Rem and 458 Win. What I am noticing in Africa, is that the 458 Lott is really increasing in popularity; especially among PH's. But I wouldn't call 416 Rigby an uncommon cartridge (it's certainly way more popular than 416 Weatherby or Ruger) and seems to be gaining more popularity every year. But with the CZ550 now out of the game, you are going to spend BIG MONEY on a Rigby-chambered rifle, but can still go to any gun store and get a M70 off the shelf chambered in 416RM. Many European hunters that love the Blaser system also shoot the 416RM.
Also if you are a southpaw running the bolt African style is the best way. I haven't seen too many left handed bolt action CFR Safari rifles.
Great video. Thanks for sharing!
Double rifles are not intended to mount an optic of any kind. For a dangerous game bolt action, I would only use the "Mauser type" action, with a large claw type extractor. I would stay away from the Remington type with the thin stamped sheet metal extractor, they fail, I've had it happen on a rifle less than 5 years old using only factory ammunition.
What are you thoughts on red dot optics like Aimpoint etc., vs a conventional scopes like your Leupold above for dangerous game? My sense is the red dot are improving and becoming more popular, but I appreciate and respect your opinion on these matters. Also, what do you prefer for type of scope covers in the field? Another great video. On the model 70, when on the hunt, do you have your safety in full locked bolt safe or the middle safe position?
Red dot sights are better for shots 50-yards and in, and for shots on running targets (Euro driven hunts). I also prefer red-dots on cartridges with power at 458 Lott levels and above; To eliminate scope bite or scope damage from the recoil. Other than those scenarios, a magnified optic is superior. I don't use scope covers in the field, unless my scope is attached to my pack while hiking. You should always hunt with your gun on full-safe; The middle position is for loading/unloading and chamber-checks.
Good job, all very sensible.
Great info again, Desert Dog. Excellent and informative info. I will be taking my CZ550 458 LOTT (upgraded by Matrix Gunsmithing) to Mozambique next year for a buffalo hunt. Believe it or not, I actually enjoy shooting it! It's all about shooting technique and practice (on and off sticks) that you so well encourage in your video. I also remember your adage that "its time to man up" when it comes to many of us regarding recoil! :-)
How is the work that Matrix does? I haven't seen one of their worked-over CZs since Wayne at AHR passed the torch to Matrix.
Thanks for the info! Very helpful thank you.
Excellent explanations! Glad you included .375 H & H...very popular up here in Alaska. Great idea to use only 25 lbs with the lead sled.
For smaller bore, I shoot of a lead sled with no weight, since the sled alone adds enough pounds for my 300 H &H
What are your thoughts on wood versus synthetic stocks? I like your safety focus...
A good synthetic stock (not a cheap injection molded one) will be more durable than a (non-laminated) wood stock. If I was a guide in coastal Alaska, or lived in an environment where I carried my rifle all year - I would definitely prefer a synthetic stock and stainless action. But I will also admit that nothing feels better than a good piece of hand-checkered wood, and for a rifle that goes on a couple hunts a year at most, wood is great. My bear rifle for Alaska is a stainless Model 70 in 375H&H with a laminate stock.
@@desertdogoutdoors1113 Thanks. I just ordered an HS Precision synthetic stock with aluminum bedding block for my 1976 Remington 700 in .270 Win. My 300 H & H has a mcmillan synthetic stock. All my hunting partners up here in Alaska have synthetic stocks on their big game rifles.
Outstanding advice...thank you.
Great video! Congratulations!
Very informative video, thanks !
Great video, thanks
You make very nice video man!
GREAT stuff! Thanks!
Great video I’m planing my first African safari right now I’m going for the buffalo and taking two rifles a Brno 602 375h&h and a Brno 602 458Lott thanks for all of your tips
Hopefully, the Covid19 scare ends and you get a good trip together. I just had to cancel my trip to Zambia and Zimbabwe.
That’s a shame. Yeah I hope so to but I’m going next year or the year after so hopefully the world has calmed down
What are your thoughts on big bore revolvers for dangerous game such as .454 casull, .460 and .500 Ruger?
I don't believe it's ethical.
Really enjoying your videos - thanks!
May I ask what the sling is that’s attached to the .375H&H circa 19 minutes into the film?
It's a "Super Sling 2+".
What do you think about the a Winchester Model 70 .416 Rem Mag Safari Classic Rifle built 2001-2006?
That was a really good video I've not been to Africa yet but I hunt bear, lion, and hogs on the ground here in north America and most of the shots are measured in feet not yards so the fundamentals of what your saying I feel without the ability for personal comparisons are very much the same though Africa has always been in my heart to go hunt I'm not sure I'll ever make it there but if I do I'll keep your advise in mind for sure thanks for it
This is a GREAT video
I have heard that the Partition is softer in the nose so that it expands on smaller stuff like CXP2 thin skinned game compared to an A-Frame. I never shot anything with a Partition, hunted with em but never has come together. I did take a whitetail this past November with a Woodleigh 180 gr PP SN out of a Tikka .30-06 and it did not seem to expand well. I cannot confirm for sure but it was a perfect heart shot and the bullet had 100% penetration obviously. The tree behind the deer had 3 spots where it appeared chunks of bullet hit it. Do you have any thoughts on the Scirocco II from Swift? I have a few hundred 150 gr to try in my 7mm Rem Mag.
Sir love your videos very helpful
It looks like u r a pretty big hefty guy for big bore guns but I met guys half ur size with .500x500 and never flinch once above .416 cal I need a butt pad on stock or shoulder pad due to shoulder injury on right side since my army time I like ur videos blessings to you thxs for posting great stuff
Buzz Charlton is probably the most successful current PH when it comes to elephant, and he is probably the shortest/smallest PH in Africa. He shoots his 500NE like a champ. Technique is much more important than size/weight.
Can you please do a video on the detail of using that leather montana sling? I'm torn between that style or a Viking tactical sling. Thanks!
Stay subscribed to my channel. Working on a hunting sling video right now!
Great video Good information Thanks
MY HUBBY bought a Mauser Bauer bolt action rifle in 375 H&H for $400 back in the 1980's. Sold it years later for $600.
NOW, he kicks himself evert time he sees the current prices - $1,000 and UP !
Sage advice on a lot of different aspects to hunting/shooting. Especially the part about safe gun handling when around several other people. Re the Lead Sled, I finally sold mine to someone who could use it more than I did. I never had problems with stocks cracking but I learned early on that POI was/could be vastly different than shooting from field positions. I just ordered some .376" lead bullets to team with Trail Boss powder for inexpensive, low-recoil practice ammo for my new M70 .375 H&H. Years ago Winchester (or Ruger?) made a big-bore pattern rifle but chambered in .223 Rem. Kind of wish I would have bought one. Great video, DD.
Thank you for posting. I noticed a couple of things when you were going through those practice drills. You don't simply snap the safety forward with your thumb before taking the first shot. Is that to prevent an audible "click" before that first shot? Also, when you're topping off the rifle in the heat of the action, you don't pause to remove the loaded cartridge by hand when opening the bolt. Is that to minimize down time during that critical phase of the hunt?
More polite term: "consolidate your fecal matter." ISYN. Keep on rockin' in the free world.
This is an amazing video.
Really..you did real hard work in explaining the African hunting process quite precisely. But I'd like to point out one thing you've missed...like I'm a newbie to hunting with lots of friends like me around. So my quest for information is that how do I carry a rifle purchased and owned in America to Africa? What is the process including the legal formalities on both the sides..American as well as African, the transportation of my ownership rifle,with me when I board the airplane from an American airport, etc. Kindly do a separate video if need be. I think everyone like me, along with me would highly appreciate it sir. Thank you.🙂
For the exception of the form 4457 requirement, This is different for every country and every airline. You need to do your own research for the individual country and airline you will be using.
Cheers Mate! That was Awesome.