Quick Answer
For 6.5 Gibbs elk hunting, set your rangefinder to a low-reflectance mode and adjust the unit to a 5-10x magnification setting to account for long distances and varying terrain.
Rangefinder Settings and Modes
When hunting elk with a 6.5 Gibbs, it’s crucial to set your rangefinder to low-reflectance mode to minimize the impact of reflective surfaces such as leaves and snow. This mode will give you a more accurate reading by filtering out unwanted reflections. Set the unit to 5-10x magnification for a balance between magnification and field of view. This will allow you to accurately judge distances at longer ranges, but still maintain a wide enough field of view to quickly spot and track elk.
Accounting for Terrain and Distance
When taking into account the varying terrain of elk hunting, it’s essential to factor in the ballistic drop of your 6.5 Gibbs rifle. For a typical elk hunt, you’ll likely be shooting at distances between 200-400 yards. The 6.5 Gibbs cartridge has a relatively flat trajectory, but it’s still important to account for the drop. Use your rangefinder to measure the distance to the elk, and then consult your ballistic charts to determine the point of impact. A good rule of thumb is to add 1-2 MOA of elevation for every 100 yards of distance.
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