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| One of Us |
I have a super light Rifles, Inc in 300 Win Mag. I also have a Browning X-Bolt in 26 Nosler. Both have the latest greatest Swarovski scopes with the ballistic turret. Which would you take to Tajikistan for Marco Polo and why? | ||
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| One of Us |
Whichever one you shoot the best and have the most confidence in. I think either caliber is perfectly adequate for the task at hand. | |||
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| One of Us |
I'm in the same Boat now Larry after booking my hunt. I have a 300 win mag and my Blaser 7mm STW shooting 140gr TSX. I am going to work up a load for the 300win and see what shoots best for me at longer ranges. From what I here it is not uncommon to shoot 500 plus yards. I have a Sworo with a balistic turret for a scope and hope that helps things a bit. I'd pick what you shoot best at longer ranges | |||
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| One of Us |
The problem is that we are basically at sea level where I live. Plus it is awfully difficult to find a place to shoot further than 300 yards in central Florida. The other things that crosses my mind is ammo availability. What if my ammo gets lost/stolen? My guess is that there is not a chance in hell I can find a box of 26 Nosler ammo in Tajikistan. Is this something to be concerned about? I have several guns of the same model as the 26 Nosler just in different calibers. It is a slightly heavier gun. It definitely has further reach. I am thinking of taking it. | |||
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Both valid points to consider. I shoot a 300 win and have on all of my mountain hunts. As long as you know the proper "dope", you'll be fine with it. I like a heavier bullet for wind drift, but a long bullet out of your 26 (like a Berger) that should compensate for the wind a bit (in theory). In our camp there will be several guys shooting 300 win mag's, maybe one other hunter shooting a 26 Nosler though I think he's having a 30 Nosler built. Point being, if your 300 ammo doesn't show up, there should be plenty of extra rounds in camp for you to use. Not sure that'll be the case with the 26. Greg Greg Brownlee Neal and Brownlee, LLC Quality Worldwide Big Game Hunts Since 1975 918/299-3580 greg@NealAndBrownlee.com www.NealAndBrownlee.com Instagram: @NealAndBrownleeLLC Hunt reports: Botswana 2010 Alaska 2011 Bezoar Ibex, Turkey 2012 Mid Asian Ibex, Kyrgyzstan 2014 | |||
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Larry, Before I went in 2008, I had my whiz-bang 300 RUM all ready to rock with my Z-6 2-12 Swarovski on top but right before our departure I was told that foreigners would be prohibited from entering the Country with their own forearms. Weird. I was shocked to learn that we'd be using our guide's personal rifles! YIKES!!! It all worked out well enough as I used a Blaser with a Swarovski SFP on top in 300 Win Mag. (I've lived a sheltered life and had to be shown how to "lift" the bolt) One shot at the 100 Meter target to verify and, several days later, one shot at my ram at 150 yards and the hunt was in the books. The guide's 180 Barnes TTSX handloads worked to perfection. I'd take your 300 Win for the reasons you've stated. Zeke | |||
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| One of Us |
Larry, I will have my .300wm HSPrecision on this hunt. If your new dangled contraption does not work or show up, for special consideration I may let you shoot mine...... I will have it tested out to 500 yards and turreted. The Swarovski scope will treat you well..... Now, for that special consideration.... | |||
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Larry- I have a Rifles, Inc. Strata in 300 Win Mag that Lex built for my first bighorn hunt in Wyoming. I've been sold ever since. I killed my 59 1/2" MP and my 44" Ibex in Dec 2015 and was very pleased with the 300 using 180 grainers. The sheep was killed at 535 yds and the Ibex at 505. Nice to have that little bit of extra punch at distance.I have a Swarovski Z5 3X18 with the stadia lines as I've found it faster than cranking a turret if the target is checking out.I agree with the others-take what you shoot best and have a great time. | |||
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Which ever you can shoot confidently to the desired distance and under field conditions. You aren't exactly backpack hunting, so a heavier rifle that you can more confidently shoot at longer ranges is ok in my book. Brett DRSS Life Member SCI Life Member NRA Life Member WSF Rhyme of the Sheep Hunter May fordings never be too deep, And alders not too thick; May rock slides never be too steep And ridges not too slick. And may your bullets shoot as swell As Fred Bear's arrow's flew; And may your nose work just as well As Jack O'Connor's too. May winds be never at your tail When stalking down the steep; May bears be never on your trail When packing out your sheep. May the hundred pounds upon you Not make you break or trip; And may the plane in which you flew Await you at the strip. -Seth Peterson | |||
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| one of us |
Zeke, Exact same thing happened to us in 2008. Our entire group (5 hunters) had their rifles held in Dushanbe and everyone had to use the camp rifles. Husband and I used their Remington 7mm magnum. Shot for his MP was about 300, my ibex about 375. One practice shot at 100 yards and off we went. Kathi kathi@wildtravel.net 708-425-3552 "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page." | |||
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Hello Larry I have used a 300 Win Mag on the heavier mountain game, most shots are over 250 yards and some are 400 yard shots. I like how the 300 Win Mag performs at these distances in open windy terrain. I use the Nosler AccuBond LR 190 gr bullets. But as everyone else has mentioned take the rifle you are comfortable shooting at those distances accurately.  | |||
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| one of us |
I also use a .300 WM with 180 grain Nosler AB. Light and shoots great. The most helpful tool was my G7 BR2 rangefinder. Necessary for adjustments at altitude. I practice at 4300 feet and shot my marco at just under 14,000 feet. Whole different ballistic profile! Get in shape. Take your pills. The altitude is a beast. Ski+3 | |||
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I am in shape. The problem is when you live at less than 50 feet elevation and it is flat. I bought a Hypoxico machine. My blood pressure went crazy. I am staying away from it. | |||
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Between two rifles that shoot with similar accuracy and precision, I tend to hunt with the heavier rifle as long as it's 8-10 pounds with scope. Light rifles are harder to shoot well especially in the mountains. If the choice is an 7 pound rifle, scope, and ammo package and a 10 pound rifle, scope, and ammo package, my advise is for you to drop 3 pounds of body fat and take the heavier rifle assuming similar accuracy and precision. Good hunting! | |||
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If only one actually made up for the other. Comparing rifle weight and body weight is like comparing apples and unicorns. A rifle is the most awkward weight you will ever carry. There are loads of very accurate lightweights out there. Plenty accurate for hunting. Take the rifle you shoot well although Tajik rams are stout and wind can be a real concern. In that case the 300 gets the nod. That said I killed mine with a 270. | |||
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| One of Us |
Larry, use the 300 Win Mag. If you enter the situastion that you need some ammo it is probably that 300 Win Mag or 7 mm Rem Mag some other hunter has left in camp from prevous hunts. I have used both calibers over there on MP and Ibexes. The lesser weight the better as long as you shoot as good with it. Normally you will have a steady rest on your backpack or a stone or something, so using a light weight rifle should not be the problem. Carrying it is something different. 300 yards exercising is good - learn the turret from there. However, sidewind is as crusual. Try to shoot on 300 yards with a good sidewind and try to learn where the bullet hits. You will probalay miss the target ! I once shot my first Ibex on 571 yards and hit him through both shoulders - howeever I did not have much sidewind. I would not have tried in strong sidewind. You have the sheep experience - but since distance can be further out than normal wind is difficult. Regarding medication; I experienced the same once starting taking the tablets ( DIamox ) in airport in Oslo before leaving for Moskow. When I got to Moskow I was very ill for several hours. THe hart rate was running like hell - I drinked a lot to repair. After this incident I got much more careful. I learned from climbers climbing Mount Everest that a mix of small portion Viagra and Diamox is good. I tried it - the advantage is that you do not have to pie all the time like just using Diamox. Not too much Viagra - it does not give the " normal " effect anyway in these circumstances :-) The best thing is to be there some days before hunting starts to adjust a little and drink lots of green tea. Drink way more than you normally do. Eat even though you do feel hungry. Travel into the area by car over 12-15 hours is also good. Flying in by helicopter and land - bang - your head is exploding !! Avoid that if possible ! Some people ( like me ) are having trouble to sleep in these areas. Use sleeping pills that helps you starting to sleep. Without the sleep you will be worn out in short time. All the best, Morten The more I know, the less I wonder ! | |||
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A friend took one. He was told to practice at 500 yards.He did and guess what? He shot one right at 500 yards with no wind. He used a 300 WSM with 180 Acubonds. The ram was 60 inchs+ but one tip was broke off. | |||
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I took diamox 20 years ago when we went to China on a sheep hunt. I took it again a few years back when we went to Ecuador for a wedding that was at high altitude. I had no issues either time that I recall. I have sleep problems all the time. I am sure the altitude won't help. Altitude definitely dehydrates much faster. Hydrating is a must. I really want to use the 26 Nosler. Unfortunately, I am afraid of taking it. If I can find a way to get ammo there before the hunt, I am taking it with certainty. I have another question. Do you all take day packs or backpacks? | |||
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I'd take a backpack if for nothing else to carry your clothing. Lots of layers are required on these hunts and the bulk adds up quickly. | |||
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That is what I was thinking. Thanks. | |||
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I carry a day pack. A back pack will be too big when climbing the hills/mountain sides in my experience ! Morten The more I know, the less I wonder ! | |||
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one of us |
Go ahead and take your 26 Nosler if that's what you want to shoot. It's what that cartridge was designed for! In all my travels, I've never been separated from my ammo. If something is going to get lost/delayed, it's going to be your gun case. I've been in camp with plenty of ammo but no rifle a few times. If the worst happens, there will be a rifle for you to use. | |||
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| One of Us |
I would take the one that is the most accurate. | |||
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| one of us |
I use a Mystery Ranch pack. Has a super large main cabin for horse, person, or vehicle delivery to camp. Then a smaller pack clips on the frame for day use. Plus, it all fits in a suitcase for air travel. Having the frame on a daypack saves your back and shoulders. Make sure you have a good personal stove, know how to use it and have gas containers. Ski+3 | |||
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If you are used to LR hunting, 500 yards is really no big deal at all. It's just a "medium range" affair. Long Range hunting is all about ballistics. Get a rangefinder, or better yet, use a tactical scope and learn how to mil a target to find the range. Many times, the laser will simply refuse to get a reading. Get a Kestrel weatherstation, a good ballistics software and print out DA charts (density alt). Beyond the usual practicing with your rifle/load make sure the scope has a mil-type reticle. Technology has come a long way, and today's long rangers are able to connect with game at almost any range. Shots at and beyond 1000/1500 yards are quite common. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ ColdBore 1.0 - the ballistics/reloading software solution http://www.patagoniaballistics.com | |||
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[QUOTE]Originally posted by larryshores: I am in shape. Famous last words! It's a different ball-game at 16000"...and I'm sure you already know that, Larry, but I just wanted to showcase how brilliant I am. LMAO Zeke | |||
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I know. I also said that I only live 50 feet above seas level after I said I was in shape. I am definitely concerned about the altitude. The last time I did a hunt at this elevation was 1997. I am sure those 20 years haven't impacted me at all!  | |||
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It kicked my butt in 2008 so 9 years later wouldn't help me much either. You'll do just fine! Zeke | |||
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| one of us |
Based on other personal friend's tales, I would do all I could to arrive at final camp/altitude as far ahead of hunting days as possible. Good luck! Hunt was nearly 20 years ago, but he used a .264 WMwith good results. xxxxxxxxxx When considering US based operations of guides/outfitters, check and see if they are NRA members. If not, why support someone who doesn't support us? Consider spending your money elsewhere. NEVER, EVER book a hunt with BLAIR WORLDWIDE HUNTING or JEFF BLAIR. I have come to understand that in hunting, the goal is not the goal but the process. | |||
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| One of Us |
What I understand is that they want us to spend an entire day in camp acclimating. I have to assume there is also an element of adjusting to the altitude on the drive in to the camp. | |||
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Yes. I have a friend who is a mountain climbing guide. He's certainly ranks as one of the worlds elite mountain climbers. He's said more than once how some people will charter a helicopter to base camp (already at very high altitude) because they could afford it. Most have to hike to get there. It's not uncommon for the flyin's to suffer altitude sickness as soon as they arrive which can end the trip or in extreme cases lead to death if not promptly treated. The moral to the story is its better to slowly work your way to higher altitudes than be suddenly dropped there. I guess in this case it's also better to be a little less affluent too.  Roger ___________________________ I'm a trophy hunter - until something better comes along. *we band of 45-70ers* | |||
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Interesting. I saw a documentary about a helicopter pilot who did some high altitude rescue flights on Mt Everest. IIRC, he told someone without oxygen, he would be dead in 3 minutes having just flown up there. | |||
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| one of us |
That is correct. Same as diving. Your body adjusts to the pressure and air. Don't worry. The drive to camp will give you plenty of time to adjust. The MOST IMPORTANT shooting item is to make sure your scope is adjusted for altitude. I had a new set of turrets built by Leupold for the estimated altitude. The Gunwerks BR2 rangefinder will also calculate drop based on altitude. You rifle will have a completely different drop at 400 yard when looking a sea level and 14,000 feet. Learning all the little stuff is what makes mountain hunts the best.  Ski+3 | |||
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Saw that too I believe. I think he's also the one who landed his helicopter on the summit of Everest. I know he's Nepalese but I would think he would wear an oxygen mask while flying at those altitudes? Roger ___________________________ I'm a trophy hunter - until something better comes along. *we band of 45-70ers* | |||
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Yup. Colonel Madan KC if I recall correctly. He did use oxygen. | |||
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Larry, I don't believe that a day of acclimating would be enough to matter much. We found that we just had to take the Diamox. It really helped. I felt no ill effects with the altitude, but decided to stop taking the Diamox, and regretted it within one day. Dizziness and headache resulted. Went right back on it and all was well. Either of your rifles should be plenty, especially with the Swarovski optics. I'd just take the one I shot the best. Mike Wilderness is my cathedral, and hunting is my prayer. | |||
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| One of Us |
Diamox is a must. It will be taken. We have a days drive in. Prior to that, we have some time at altitude. I am told they insist on a full day at camp. I think I have arranged to get some 26 Nosler ammo there ahead of time. If there is ever a place to shoot such a rifle, it is there. It is likely what I will take. | |||
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| One of Us |
Larry, I think I'm falling in love with the 26 Nosler. I may have to put one together. I have some nice wood and a Mauser Modelo Argentino 1909 action that I could put to that purpose. As they used to say about really fast things, it's faster than greased lightning!  Best of luck on your trip. Mike Wilderness is my cathedral, and hunting is my prayer. | |||
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| One of Us |
Speaking of the Nosler cartridges. Has anyone had any experience with the Nosler rifles. Good luck on the hunt | |||
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| new member |
Larry, I was in the Pamir in Tajikistan hunting marco polo argali and Siberian ibex in mid January of this year 2017. Some thoughts that could be of interest (I have enjoyed and I have benefited so much reading your posts in AR that I sincerely hope that they can be of some help to you): I carried my K-gun Hubertus single shot in 7x65R, that is the gun I use for my mountain hunts in Europe. I prepared it carefully at my home town (Madrid, at 2,050 feet) for long range shooting with its Swaro 2.5x15 BT scope but... the gun arrived at Dushanbe just the day before I returned back there from the mountains for travelling back home. So I had to use a Blaser R93 in 7 Rem Mag topped with a Meopta 2x12 scope (with no BT nor mil dot) that they lent to me. Good gun and scope but very different to what I had planned. Additionally, it had very few hunting ammunition, so I had to hunt the ibex using Norma FMJ practice cartridges. Now my thoughts: (i) Do not worry too much about preparing perfectly in advance your rifle for shooting at 15,000 feet altitude. Provided you have ammunition enough you will have plenty of time (during first day at camp acclimating yourself to altitude) for fine tuning the rifle. On the other side, in the vicinity of the camp there will be some area for shooting at 300 or even 500 yards should you need it to feel confident (or to get used to a completely different rifle and scope). (ii) Except if you fully refuse that someone carries your rifle, do not worry too much about the rifle's weight (within some limits, I mean). More important for me is to be as fit as possible when the time to shoot comes and to devote your remaining strength to carry a good reflex camera with a quality powerful zoom. (iii) I love the 300 Win Mag but I see no reason for the 26 Nosler to be inappropriate. To the contrary, it seems to have been created for hunts like this. But be sure to have ammunition enough as I said before. (iv) Be mentally ready to hunt with a loaned gun. (i) Diamox and a one day long trip by car are good things for getting used to altitude. Nevertheless, I only was able to sleep well since the fourth day. Three bad first nights. Something to sleep well may be a good idea. (ii) Cold was terrible in January in the Pamir (-31 F) and I am 57. But I enjoyed every minute of the hunt. Even when sometimes I thought that I could not make one step more. To climb slowly but with full determination to reach the top of the hill and ambush the magnificent argali gave me the stamina I needed. I mean I am sure your shape is more than appropriate for a fantastic and succesful hunt. Knowing how you prepare your hunts, do not worry too much about that, your mind shall govern the adventure (and shall govern the locals, who must learn your limits and adapt the entire hunt to them). Thank you and regards. | |||
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