Best Practice for Taking a Quartering Away Shot on Antelope?

Establishing a Stable Shooting Position

For a quartering away shot on antelope, it’s essential to establish a stable shooting position. This typically involves getting down into a prone or shooting stick position, where you can effectively manage your rifle’s recoil. When shooting from a prone position, aim to get as low as possible, with your cheek resting on the rifle’s stock and your eyes aligned with the scope’s reticle. From this position, make any necessary adjustments to your aim, taking into account the wind, bullet drop, and the animal’s movement.

Aiming and Trigger Control

When aiming for the shoulder or chest area, use the animal’s body position to guide your aim. Look for the area where the shoulder meets the chest, as this is a vital spot that will likely drop the animal quickly. Take your time to ensure you have a clear shot, and then focus on trigger control. Squeeze the trigger smoothly, avoiding jerky movements that can throw off your aim. For a quartering away shot, it’s often best to aim slightly above the animal’s heart, as this will ensure a clean kill.

Accounting for Distance and Wind

When shooting at distances between 200-400 yards, it’s crucial to account for bullet drop and wind deflection. Use your rangefinder or ballistic calculator to determine the exact trajectory of your bullet, taking into account the rifle’s zero and the type of ammo being used. For a quartering away shot, it’s also essential to consider the wind direction and speed, as this can significantly impact the bullet’s trajectory. Make any necessary adjustments to your aim accordingly, and then take the shot when you’re confident in your setup.