“OVER GUNNED”

The setting of parameters apparently sometimes works insofar as getting people to think in terms of reality. There has been a fair amount of feedback regarding what is perceived by some readers to be a slant by this website to lean toward more powerful rifles than are absolutely necessary. Our response to them, in general, is for the specification of "absolutely necessary" in quantitative terms. So, we have been presenting scenarios that call for a reasonable answer on their part. One of them is, "Would you choose a 30-30 for sheep hunting in Alaska?" Visualizing shots that can extend beyond 300 yards, and are seldom less than 200, they are quick to point out that the 270 Winchester, or a 7mm or 30-caliber magnum, are better choices. Of course, we agree.

Then we move on to elk. Keep in mind, we're communicating with people who think we prefer to be "over-gunned". So, we listen to this story and that, as they attempt to justify, say, a 270 Winchester as an elk rifle. We listen, and only sometimes doubt their glowing claims of success. When they're done with their remarks, we add a parameter... "Suppose the elk was 150 yards from a zone in which pursuit and retrieval was forbidden. If it goes 150 yards in any direction after being hit a single time, you are not able to have it, and must give up your tag."

"Hey, that's not fair! I can't help it if the elk takes off. It's not unusual to have to track one." That's what they say. Almost everyone set on using too little a gun sticks to their belief. Occasionally, however, there will be a pause, followed by something along the lines of, "Yeah, I see your point. Never thought about it that way before." 

We encourage hunters to think about big game hunting in terms of humanity toward animals, and the quality of the game as table fare. The right choice of cartridge and bullet can make a huge difference in your score of success in the field, as well as your self esteem.

JDC