Quote:
Originally Posted by Porker
JE, now ya scaring me!  ....seriously .... have been thinking about the danger element with pig, and yes, pig/hog is hunted with various calibers from small to large. We hear many a time of hunters on the net, taking pig with almost anything. What we don't always hear is the circumstances under which they where taken. You could have a hunter who has mastered the art of taking massive hogs through his kitchen window with a small caliber for years. For the paying client it's a whole different ball game.
Are we talking big hog's in Australia?, or is it only in US/Europe that you find the big hog's that pose a danger on the ground? This rifle is extra insurance on pig's in OZ (Queensland), which is where I am heading next year.
Of the 2 rifles required, I have the varmint/meduim pig thing sorted in 6.5x55. This is a step-up from my 22 hornet. Bottom line.... I want sufficient (not minimal) caliber for the other rifle, should a monster hog pose a threat, therefore my final question would be: would any of the 338 cal's be sufficient or do I go up to 35 cal on worst case scenario with the biggest hog's? Not looking for "leverguns/bush caliber only" types, want a solid bolt action ...You have the experience ... how was the performance of these 2 cal's on a adrinalin stoked pig? |
It's good to be wary of hogs because this is a matter of size "Doesn't" matter. a 200 pound pig
can be just as dangerous as a 600 pound pig and it is not just the bores that have to be respected.
Like most animals the mother instinct is very strong and protection of there young is on the top of there list.
As to the caliber- again it depends on your distance,protection and shot placement. The old term that hot rodders use "There is no substitution for cubic inches" applies to bullet weight and caliber when it comes to hogs and bears. Enough is not the question.How fast is the important thing. Perfect shot
placement is not always possible especally when a pig charges you so be prepaired for the worst
and the results should be the best.
My favorite long range rifle for hogs is a 7 STW, my favorite elevated stand rifle is a 7/08, the favorite for still hunting (Sneaking) would be the 338 RCM, if I an tracking a wounded pig a
12 gauge 3 1/2'' or my 450 bushmaster is the weapon of choice.
I think you can see where i'm going with this, not only do you wan't killing power but also stopping
power when it comes to pissed of pigs.
Your 6.5 x 55 will do a great job if the shot is placed good and he should not run far.
Bow hunting pigs can be a total blast but you have to realize that even though he is dead when shot
properly he has time and vengeance on his side.
I do not fear hogs but I do respect them very much and know what they can do if given the chance.
If you respect a hog/pig even though they are smaller,like you would a cape buffalo you will do fine.
I have killed hogs with a bow, 17 HMR, 22 LR, 22WRM, 22 hornet, 708, 7 STW, 308, 30/06, 338,
350 RM , 375 H&H , 416 RM, 45/70, 45/120, 450 bushmaster and many pistols and shotguns and
the results were allways linear.(The bigger the caliber the better the all round results were).
I hope this helps you decide.
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