13 August 2008, 18:31
perryNilgai cow hunt
How much do these things weigh, how tough are they? I'm thinking of using my 7x57 with either 140 or 160 grain TSXs.
Perry
13 August 2008, 19:48
Bobby TomekYour 7x57 will do just fine. Choose whichever of the two bullets it shoots best, and you'll be set.
Old, mature bulls in good condition can push 600 pounds. I am not certain about the weight of the cows but would have to say 250-350 for a mature animal.
14 August 2008, 17:27
perryBobby
Do you know how the vitals sit. Like a whitetail or lower and farther forward like African game?
Perry
19 August 2008, 02:12
AtkinsonA Nilgai cow will weigh up to 400 lbs. max and they average about 325 lbs I am told...The Nilgai is one tough animal and can take a lot of lead..The trick is to put the first bullet close behind the shoulder about 1/3 up or 2/3s down..Lungs are the size of a washtub and they can take awhile to die, especially the bulls..I like to use a big rifle on them, it keeps my follow ups simple and blood trails ample..
I would use the 7x57 with 175 gr. Noslers but I much prefer my .338 with 300 gr. Woodleighs..I have hunted Nilgai more than a few times on the King ranch in So. Texas...
They eat real good, none better in the wild game dept..except perhaps Eland.