Quick Answer
A 7mm Remington Magnum or a .300 Winchester Magnum is suitable for hunting elk in densely forested areas due to their flat trajectory and ability to penetrate dense cover.
Choosing the Right Caliber
When hunting elk in densely forested areas, it’s essential to choose a caliber that can deliver a fatal shot through thick trees and brush. The 7mm Remington Magnum is an excellent choice, with its flat trajectory and ability to penetrate up to 12 inches of pine at 500 yards. This caliber offers a broad range of options for bullet weight and type, making it suitable for various hunting conditions.
Bullet Selection
When selecting bullets for your elk hunt, look for those with a high BC (ballistic coefficient) to ensure they maintain their velocity and accuracy over long distances. A BC of .6 or higher is recommended for hunting elk in dense cover. For example, the 139-grain Nosler Partition has a BC of .536, making it an excellent choice for elk hunting in forested areas.
Hunting Techniques
To increase your chances of success when hunting elk in densely forested areas, focus on hunting during the early morning or late evening when elk are most active. Use a high-powered spotting scope to identify elk at long distances, and then use a tree stand or blind to get close to your target. When shooting from a tree stand, make sure to aim for the elk’s heart or lungs, as these areas are critical for a quick and humane kill.
Find more answers
Browse the full Q&A library by topic, or jump back to the topic this question belongs to.