Muzzleloader for Elk?

22 October 2001, 07:27

Been thinking about the advantages of doing the muzzleloader elk season next year, instead of the rifle season--fewer hunters, much easier to get a tag, etc.

Anybody got any comments on how the two hunts compare, and, while we're at it, comments on the best value in a muzzleloader?

23 October 2001, 03:06

<Paleohunter>

If you use a ol-smokepole you will really have too Hunt at least within 100yds if not closer if you are using iorn sights.

23 October 2001, 03:52

Rich Anderson

I just came back from my first but not the last muzzeloader elk hunt. I applied for a private land hunt in Colorado and drew the tag on my first attempt. Opening day (9/8) there was 10inches of snow. It dissappeared quickly however. On the third day I got a nice 6x6. I used A Rem 700ML with 295gr powerbelt and 100r of ffg. Colorado allows no scopes,sabots or Pyrodex pellets. Check the regulations of the state you want to go as to the use of In Lines and the scopes etc. I saw plenty of elk even though the rut hadn't started yet and was able to sneak up on half dozen bulls before I took a shot.

[This message has been edited by Rich Anderson (edited 10-22-2001).]

23 October 2001, 06:10

Atkinson

We have a high success rate on our trophy elk black powder hunts...

the only thing I insist on is to shoot BEHIND the shoulder, not on the shoulder, thats where all our failures come from, even with the big heavy bullets...

MOst of our hunters use the White muzzle loaders and big bullets (not balls) and low power scopes...You can make a killing shot at 200 yds with ease...

I use a 54 Cal. Hawkin with a peep sight. Mostly I just hand it to the hunter for his second shot. most of our shots on trophy elk (350 B&C plus) are within 50 to 100 yds.

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Ray Atkinson

ray@atkinsonhunting.com
atkinsonhunting.com

23 October 2001, 09:08

Canuck

quote:
Originally posted by Atkinson:
the only thing I insist on is to shoot BEHIND the shoulder, not on the shoulder, thats where all our failures come from, even with the big heavy bullets...

Right on, Mr. A., I agree FWIW. My Dad and I used to chase moose around with his .54 Hawken many moons ago. We subscribe to the same theory.

I have a .54 cal TC Thunderhawk now. Haven't used it hunting yet but playing at the range I believe the same theory still holds true. Hits with 430gr TC maxi-balls (semi-wadcutter shape) result in a lot of damage, but straight line penetration ain't the greatest.

I have just started playing around with the 325 gr Barnes X sabots. I haven't done a penetration test with them yet, but they whistle through 14" stumps at 50 yards. I think they could be a little better on game than the standard maxi-ball. They are definately more accurate.

Good idea packin your own smokepole to give the hunter a quick follow up!

Canuck

23 October 2001, 15:28

358Mark

I use a homeade 50cal. double with black powder and patched round balls for hunting whitetail,mule deer and black bears. I find it a lot more fun than a centerfire. I haven't tried it on elk but may next fall.
I started using the muzzleloader because the seasons are earlier so it sort of extends the season.Mark

24 October 2001, 15:08

<migra>

Knight and TC both make some very good muzzleloaders. Get something with shotgun primer ignition, they go boom under some pretty bad conditions. Barnes makes a great muzzleloader elk bullet. My dad kiled an elk with that bullet last year. We recovered the bullet and I'm very impressed. 100% weight retention and it expanded to double it's original diameter.

25 October 2001, 05:28

<BigBores>

I use a T/C Hawkins in .54 cal. Standard sights, for elk I've used the Buffalo Bullet 460 grain, 135 grains of FFg, and a wonder wad over the powder to take a huge bull in NM. Was able to shoot from a log and pick my shot as he came accross rt to left at a paced 125 yds. Placed the bead on the top of his back. Literally knocked him off his feet. Took him just behind the shoulder and he never got up. Had 7 points on one side and 8 on the other. Huge bodied animal, bullet was wadded up on the far side broken ribs. Gotta love it.

Side note: They are discussing banning inlines in AZ for use in the primative ML hunts. If they do, you'll have to hunt your inlines in the general hunt with all the Ultra mag boys. Just something to think about if you're planning on buying a ML soon.

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"You seem to be suffering from delusions of adequecy."