Modern advancements in rifle and ammunition technology have made hunting more accessible and comfortable than ever. However, when venturing into the African bush, one must remain aware of the unpredictable nature of wildlife, which can negate these advantages.

At Kuche Safaris, we prioritize ethical hunting practices and do not condone shooting wounded animals. The hunt is yours, and while we will assist in tracking your game, it is your responsibility to make the final shot unless you request our help. In the case of the Big Five and dangerous game, the circumstances may differ, but you will always have the first opportunity to take your shot. While we may not be ballistic experts, we have extensive field experience that informs our understanding of what works effectively in various situations.

We have witnessed instances where medium calibers successfully took down Cape Eland, while wounded Impala and Warthog were lost despite being shot with a .375. This serves as a reminder that shot placement is paramount when hunting African game, often outweighing caliber and bullet weight considerations.

To assist you in your hunting endeavors in Africa, we offer this straightforward guide. By following it, you can enhance your experience and increase your chances of securing your desired trophy, provided your shot placement is accurate.

We would suggest that you use Barnes TSX bullets if available or any premium bullet with the same quality. Remember, to pay a Dollar or two more on quality ammunition is really worth it when you hunt and shoot at expensive animals.

The majority of your hunting experience will involve spotting and then stalking your target. We will take into account your age and physical capabilities, maintaining constant communication with you throughout the process. Your hunting experience will be tailored to suit your individual skills. We recommend practicing shooting from sticks, which we will provide. Ensure your rifle is sighted in at 100 yards, starting your adjustments at 25 yards. Familiarize yourself with shooting at a magnification of 5x or 6x, as higher settings can complicate shots in dense bush, making it challenging to locate your game. Additionally, it’s advisable not to delay your shot, as wild animals are unpredictable and won’t remain stationary for long. During practice, develop the habit of shooting quickly. Wait for your Professional Hunter (PH) to indicate which animal to target and when to take the shot. Prior to your hunt, clarify the signal for shooting, which will typically be the word “shoot” or another agreed-upon term.

Shot Placement

A highly recommended resource for understanding shot placement on African game is Dr. Kevin Robinson’s book and DVD titled “The Perfect Shot.” This material is readily available online and is a worthwhile investment. It is advisable to purchase the DVD, CD, or book and review it during your flight to South Africa. This preparation can make the journey feel shorter and enhance your enthusiasm for the adventure ahead.

Understanding shot placement is crucial when hunting African game, as these animals are resilient, tend to bleed minimally, and possess a strong instinct for survival. From the small Steenbuck to the formidable Cape Buffalo, all are tough creatures. A poor shot can lead to a frustrating experience. Unlike in North America and Europe, where vital organs are located higher, African game has vital organs situated lower between the shoulders, necessitating a different approach to shot placement. For instance, a shot that would be effective on a whitetail deer could result in a gut shot on African game.

Short guide: On a full broadside shot, take your scopes crosshair and line the vertical crosshair on the back of the front leg. Place the horizontal crosshair in the lower third of the animals body on the shoulder. On frontal shots (Try to avoid ) use the centre of the shoulder line normally about one third. This should take out the heart, lungs and from the side, break the shoulders as well.

Remember, without front wheels a car can go nowhere.

For small game such as the Steenbuck, it is advisable to aim for the shoulder as previously discussed; otherwise, your trophy may sustain damage, resulting in an unsatisfactory mount. If you opt for a larger caliber with solid bullets, you can confidently shoot at the shoulder without encountering issues. When hunting dangerous game or the Big Five, it is essential to use a rifle with a minimum caliber of .375. With the variety of heavier bullet weights available, selecting high-quality bullets is advantageous. For the .375 caliber, we suggest using bullets heavier than 300 grains, although we have successfully hunted numerous trophies with 300-grain bullets. However, since heavier bullets are accessible, it is beneficial to utilize them, as they increase foot-pounds of energy, which is crucial. The same fundamental principles of shot placement apply, and your professional hunter will provide guidance throughout the process.