High buck hunters

[codybear]

Hello i am to the site and am really thinking about trying the high buck hunt this September. From what i understand, it is for the most part open country. I am curious as to about how far you veteran high buck hunters are shooting? How far of shots should i be comfortable with taking? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!

[JLS]

Cody,

Do a search on the high buck hunt and you'll come up with enough reading to occupy you for a couple of days.

I don't think shots need be any further than any other mule deer hunting.  How far are you comfortable shooting now?

[codybear]

Thanks for the reply JLS, i will do a search as you said. I am comfortable up to 400 yards, but no more. I have talked with people who have told me that longer shot your comfortable with, the better. I just do not know what to expect as this will be my first time. Also if opportunities for long shots are a regular thing for the high hunt, I would like to be well prepared.

[briancorneal]

You'll have to get your butt on the range to see what your comfortable shooting range is.  What's comfortable for one person isn't comfortable for another.  I'm sure a sniper is comfortable out to 1500 yards or so, but many aren't.  Shoot at 100 yards and if you hit within a kill radius of a muley, then push it out to 200 and so on.  I figured that i'm comfortable shooting 50 yards with my bow only because i spent a lot of time at the archery range. 

[bobcat]

I wouldn't worry much about being able to shoot long distances. Think more about being in shape, and being prepared with the right equipment for whatever weather conditions you may have to deal with. If you can shoot to 300 yards, you have the shooting part handled.

[boneaddict]

Generally about 30 yards.   

[JPhelps]

I was going to say Bone usually gets it done at 30 yards and under with out training wheels.

[JPhelps]

On a serious note as others have said I would worry about the shooting somewhere last on my list.  Scouting, gear and getting in shape are way more important.

[codybear]

Thanks all for the responses!

[hugheshunter]

i agree with everyone that has said to get ready with equipment, conditioning and scouting.  I harvested my a buck on the high hunt this year.  The shot was less than fifty yards and the hardest part was the pack out five miles with a starting point at 7200 feet.  Its hard but totally worth it.

[muleracks2]

Most successful shots are taken at less than 200 yards but be prepared to take a long shot if you have the equipment to do it.  Having an accurate range is absolutely critical for longer shots; knowing your ballistics is next then having a steady rest and good trigger finger.

It's always more fun to spot and stalk to within a bow range but modern rifles can reach out when in a good shooters hands.