09 April 2009, 06:40
MikeDAcceptable Accuracy Standards "Off the Sticks"
From you gentlemen who regularly go to Africa and shoot big game like cape buffalo, what is acceptable off the sticks accuracy with your big bores? Are you looking to acheive 4 inch groups at 25, 50, 75, or 100 yards? Are 6 inch or 8 inch groups at these ranges acceptable?
I'm just starting my practice regimen so any guidelines are appreciated. I can shoot my gun; now I'm looking to find out how accuratly I need to shoot my gun while on my feet over sticks.
Secondly, at what range do you regularly practice off the sticks; 50, 75, 100 yards?
Thanks.
Mike-- I practice off the sticks at 50, 100 and 200 yards. If I can always hit a paper plate at those yardages I feel very confident on game. I guess the paper plates I use are about 8".
09 April 2009, 06:59
mstarlingMike,
Am working the same issue. I don't have a close place to practice at 200, so I shoot the shorter ranges. Am looking for speed at 50 and groups half the size of a plate at 75 and 100.
The speed thing turned out to be very valuable on the last trip ... as we were coming up the back side of an ant hill, the PH said "Shoot THAT one!" I shouldered the rifle, popped the reticle on the beastie, and pulled the trigger at warp drive and hit him!
09 April 2009, 09:24
RobgunbuilderThe paper plate method is the one I use. The range at which I cant put all my shots, standing( sticks or no sticks), sitting and prone on a paper plate is my max hunting range with any given rifle. There are those where 250 yrds is no issue and those where 50 yrds is max. Be honest with yourself and stick to that range with that gun. Sticks help some but not that much.-Rob
09 April 2009, 10:15
BuliwyfMy regular practice distance is 100 yards. I conclude each workout at 200 yards. My sticks are Stoney Point Tripod and I shoot standing, kneeling, and sitting(very few real opportunities). My rifles are 12.5x70 Schuler and .416 Rigby. I expect 2" inch 3-shot groups at 100 yds.
09 April 2009, 10:17
BuliwyfP.S. I never take a shot in the field without my sticks unless absolutley required.