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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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
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: ua-cam.com/video/5XXP09xp6x0/v-deo.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.
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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...
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
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
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.
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!
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.
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 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 .
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.
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 !
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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! :-)
Dont ever worry about spending $150 dollars on a box of good rounds. They could be the difference between getting your animals you paid 1000s of dollars for or losing them!
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Just a little warning for any *CZ550* Safari Magnum owners, *they RUST easily!!!* After just one hunt with my .416 Rigby, I had to have it Cerokoted. The Remington and the Winchester in camp didn't rust under the same conditions. Don't get me wrong, CZ makes a solid rifle; however the bluing is just not up to snuff.
404 Jeffrey is actually a little bit more recoil than the 375 more of a push from both the 375 ruger is actually more of a sharp recoil than the H&H have to get a rifle with a bit heft to it it helps
The commonly-heard advice regarding bullet sequence - expanding followed by solid - is based on animal behavior - both human and game animal. A hunter will often wait for a broadside shot, as that is the way animal anatomy and aim points are taught, as well as the optimal kill angle for all animals save those for whom a brain shot is the primary choice. A broadside shot is through internal vital organs, which present weak resistance to penetration, so overpenetration is avoidable best with an expanding bullet. The first bullet choice should thus be an expanding bullet, given the typical first shot. Once an animal has been hit, if it doesn't drop immediately, it will turn away from the sound of the shot in order to escape. That means that second and subsequent shots will be quartering shots - diagonally through the animal from the rear, in most cases, requiring a bullet with the ability to penetrate heavy and contracted (on the move) lean muscle on its way to the chest cavity - a distance of 3 feet or more in some cases. An expanding bullet would stop short, so a solid is preferable. For animals that are aggressive after being hit, and charge the source of the shot, a solid also offers the best chance of penetrating chest plate or thick, hard, skull bone on the way to the brain or neck. The advice of a PH is not to be ignored; it's where they live. I have also heard glowing reports on the Swift A-frame, and have been surprised, frankly, by the number of negative anecdotes on Hornady bullets - going back a long time, hearing of changes that "solved the problem," and then continuing to hear negatives. Excellent, well-organized and informative video; UA-cam at its best.
This is very dependent on where you hunt. If you hunt on a South African game farm or a place like Coastal Mozambique; you will probably get a broadside shot. If you hunt Dagga Boys in the bush, you will almot never get a broadside shot (almost always a frontal or quatering-to shot). With the invention of reliable expanding mono-metal and bonded bullets, the need to stack solids under a soft was largely eliminated. Today, most PHs want all A-Frames or TSX's in the magazine. The "solid" is mostly considered an elephant bullet these days.
If worried about ammo resupply locally in Africa, among .416, it seems to me that .416 Rigby may be a better choice. .416 Rigby has been an African standard for over a century. I am guessing that you would more likely be able to find .416 Rigby than .416 Remington, .416 Weather Etc. Key is to find what is available there and build equivalent handloads to practice with at home since factory ammo tends to be pricey for practice and familiarization in field position practice. Heck it would be overpowered for deer, but the purpose of this exercise is field experience. Since .416 bullets are already "pre-expanded" when compared, say, to .30 bullets, you can use solids and with proper shot placement, destroy less edible meat than with softs.
Your assumption is incorrect. I've been to gun/ammo stores in several African countries, and have hunted with many PHs. The 416RM is WAYYY more common than the Rigby. Matter of fact, I was hunting Buffalo in Zimbabwe a few months ago and the PH loaner rifles were 416rm.
I don't even live in the same tax bracket as people that would schedule a trip to Africa for a buffalo hunt before owning a rife for dangerous game, but this is a super informative video.
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
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.
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 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.
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.
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!!!
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
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: ua-cam.com/video/5XXP09xp6x0/v-deo.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.
That Model 70 with the Leupold compact is just plain sexy.
These really are some of the best, educational, and well planned videos on youtube. Great job👍
Great job done.i learnt lot .
Srinivas .G
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...
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.
Like your down to earth no bs videos , plus you are a fan of the great M70 Winchester!
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.
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...
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.
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.
Excellent organization of well thought out material. Thank you for the tremendous devotion of time to share your learning. Perry Pappous
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.
Norma Solid and Norma Swift A-Frame in .416 Rigby fit good together.
I am humbled every time I watch your videos, we forget so much detail because of age and experience
That was even better the second time around. Thank you.
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...
Very well done. Thank you for sharing! I may never get to Africa, but my mind has been on many safaris. ;-)
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 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 am learning so much great information thank you as no one on you tube comes close to your info ....
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.
Another excellent video. You covered almost all the important practical aspects of selecting and using a big bore rifle. Thank you.
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
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!
The best educational video I have ever seen. Great job sir.
Agree, great advice. Is the best I,ve watched as well.
Good job….repetition , safe gun handling , mental and physical preparation are keys to success. Keep up the good work !!! Thanks
Thank you! Although not a real outdoor activity, watching your video was time well spent!
:-)
No better advice has ever been given in every aspect.
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.
Great video. Well thought out.
Excellent job DesertDog, as always very informative.👍
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.
The 416 RM and the 458 Lott are real hammers I can't imagine you would need more than that.
Good tips that cover lots of ground!
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 .
Terrific! Great information! Keep up the good work, Sir!
I know I'm loading Swift A Frames. They have been knocking down large dangerous animals for decades
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.
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 !
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 video! I learned much today. Good job.
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.
Always like your straight to the point no fancy bull jive. Thanks
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.
This was a great video, thanks very much, from South Africa.
great vid this guy knows his stuff i enjoy his views and opinions keep it happening thanks mate.
Great job and super valuable information.
This vid is probably more useful and important viewing than anything I've ever seen.
This is extremely good information; thank you.
You're very welcome!
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
Always wondered about that lead sled. Thankyou.
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.
You make very nice video man!
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.
Dont ever worry about spending $150 dollars on a box of good rounds. They could be the difference between getting your animals you paid 1000s of dollars for or losing them!
GREAT stuff! Thanks!
Great video, 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
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.
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.
Fantastic Video = thank you! Cape Town , RSA
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.
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.
Thank you Desert Dog for your excellent video. Your attention to field safety and gun discipline were particularly poignant.
Great video! Congratulations!
Really enjoyed the video a lot of really useful information thank you
Great video. Thanks for sharing!
Outstanding advice...thank you.
Awesome upload.
This is a GREAT video
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.
Good job, all very sensible.
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.
Just a little warning for any *CZ550* Safari Magnum owners, *they RUST easily!!!*
After just one hunt with my .416 Rigby, I had to have it Cerokoted. The Remington and the Winchester in camp didn't rust under the same conditions.
Don't get me wrong, CZ makes a solid rifle; however the bluing is just not up to snuff.
Cheers Mate! That was Awesome.
Good job sir
Idk how you don’t have more subscribers! Awesome videos please keep them coming. Maybe a better microphone 🎤
Great video Good information Thanks
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 great video. Thanks.
Very informative video, thanks !
404 Jeffrey is actually a little bit more recoil than the 375 more of a push from both the 375 ruger is actually more of a sharp recoil than the H&H have to get a rifle with a bit heft to it it helps
The commonly-heard advice regarding bullet sequence - expanding followed by solid - is based on animal behavior - both human and game animal. A hunter will often wait for a broadside shot, as that is the way animal anatomy and aim points are taught, as well as the optimal kill angle for all animals save those for whom a brain shot is the primary choice. A broadside shot is through internal vital organs, which present weak resistance to penetration, so overpenetration is avoidable best with an expanding bullet. The first bullet choice should thus be an expanding bullet, given the typical first shot.
Once an animal has been hit, if it doesn't drop immediately, it will turn away from the sound of the shot in order to escape. That means that second and subsequent shots will be quartering shots - diagonally through the animal from the rear, in most cases, requiring a bullet with the ability to penetrate heavy and contracted (on the move) lean muscle on its way to the chest cavity - a distance of 3 feet or more in some cases. An expanding bullet would stop short, so a solid is preferable. For animals that are aggressive after being hit, and charge the source of the shot, a solid also offers the best chance of penetrating chest plate or thick, hard, skull bone on the way to the brain or neck.
The advice of a PH is not to be ignored; it's where they live. I have also heard glowing reports on the Swift A-frame, and have been surprised, frankly, by the number of negative anecdotes on Hornady bullets - going back a long time, hearing of changes that "solved the problem," and then continuing to hear negatives.
Excellent, well-organized and informative video; UA-cam at its best.
This is very dependent on where you hunt. If you hunt on a South African game farm or a place like Coastal Mozambique; you will probably get a broadside shot. If you hunt Dagga Boys in the bush, you will almot never get a broadside shot (almost always a frontal or quatering-to shot). With the invention of reliable expanding mono-metal and bonded bullets, the need to stack solids under a soft was largely eliminated. Today, most PHs want all A-Frames or TSX's in the magazine. The "solid" is mostly considered an elephant bullet these days.
The 338 win mag is also a very good big boar rifel
Thanks for the info! Very helpful thank you.
If worried about ammo resupply locally in Africa, among .416, it seems to me that .416 Rigby may be a better choice. .416 Rigby has been an African standard for over a century. I am guessing that you would more likely be able to find .416 Rigby than .416 Remington, .416 Weather Etc. Key is to find what is available there and build equivalent handloads to practice with at home since factory ammo tends to be pricey for practice and familiarization in field position practice. Heck it would be overpowered for deer, but the purpose of this exercise is field experience. Since .416 bullets are already "pre-expanded" when compared, say, to .30 bullets, you can use solids and with proper shot placement, destroy less edible meat than with softs.
Your assumption is incorrect. I've been to gun/ammo stores in several African countries, and have hunted with many PHs. The 416RM is WAYYY more common than the Rigby. Matter of fact, I was hunting Buffalo in Zimbabwe a few months ago and the PH loaner rifles were 416rm.
Good video as most of your stuff is. Run the bolt like you mean it.
Great video!
I don't even live in the same tax bracket as people that would schedule a trip to Africa for a buffalo hunt before owning a rife for dangerous game, but this is a super informative video.
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