AB Sheep Calibers and areas

[jhyatt01]

I am going to attempt sheep hunting this fall, was thinking about trying Central AB, west of Rocky Mountain House or even south of there, would anyone be willing to let me know if there are many sheep there or am I wasting my time?

Also, I was looking into what rounds would be optimal for hunting sheep, likely a round that would be good as far as long range and wouldnt be affected by winds as much.

 

[leadchucker]

Yep there is sheep out there, as far as calibers i've used from 25's to 300 rums, they all work fine just know your firearm. good luck out there, maybe see ya on the mountain sometime.

 

[jhyatt01]

Thanks Leadchucker, this has been a dream of mine for a long time. I'm starting to get very excited about it. The more and more I read the more I know its a process. We don't really expect to get a ram any time soon, but any advice you could give would be great.

 

[WildRose]

Thanks Leadchucker, this has been a dream of mine for a long time. I'm starting to get very excited about it. The more and more I read the more I know its a process. We don't really expect to get a ram any time soon, but any advice you could give would be great.

How are your long range shooting skills Ie 600-,000yds?

What calibers do you own currently in a platform you can shoot sub MOA with consistently?

What platforms and weights of the rigs?

Sheep country tends to be steep country with long climbs so gear weight is a consideration.

That country also tends to favor the long range shooter because of the terrain.

 

[leadchucker]

Sorry haven't been on in awhile, but as said above packing light and smart is essential. Best advice i can give from my expierience is get some miles on your boots now and scout,scout, and scout some more lol. Get to know the area you will be hunting inside and out and you will find the sheep. As far as the long range thing i agree know you firearm inside and out as well, trajectory tables etc, shooting at extreme angles etc. But i can also say that both my rams were killed under 100yds lol. Good luck this fall! Almost forgot last few seasons i have invested in bear spray, been seeing lots lately for what it's worth

 

[angus-5024]

If your actually going out and buying a sheep rifle, post a price range so that we can go from there. I would personally go for a 7mm of some sort. Browning has a few 7 WSMs and so does Winchester.

I lived in Drayton Valley (north of Rocky 1hr) for a year and went through there alot. I also meet alot of guys that hunted sheep there. Never meet anybody that shot one. The sheep are there, but most guys arent willing, or in good enough shape, to go after them in the high country. Scouting is the key to getting your sheep, before season opens. Its also a trick area becuase I think its Trophy only.

Good Luck and keep us posted.

 

[jhyatt01]

Thanks for all the tips guys, I don't know if I will be able to get up into the mountains this year, just got engaged and its looking like my sheep gear budget is getting rerouted, atleast for this year. I didn't have the time to get out and get scouting. My long range shooting ability is that I trust myself out to about 300 yards currently. Though I am going to get out alot next year to get used to it. I've been reading alot and studying alot the type of gear I need and the light weight. I've spent the last year getting myself (and starting to get my hunting partner) into shape, spend 3 days a week at the gym, plus two nights playing soccer, (equivalent of intervals) and have started doing stair steppers and will start hiking in the mountains with weights in the spring.

As far as rigs, I bought a Remington 700 SPS with Stainless steel barrel and a Vortex viper 3-9x40. I bought some factory rounds just to sight it in, but will likely be trying some hand loads this year, as the father in law does alot of handloading and wants to load up some different rounds for the rifle

 

[angus-5024]

does your scope have repeatable turrets? IF not load em at a lower-mid range wieght and fast!

 

[jhyatt01]

No it doesn't was thinking 165 grains

 

[leadchucker]

here's a couple. right at the opener.

 

[leadchucker]

The top pic is probably the best wildlife pic i have ever taken. Thanks big guy, i will see you in 2 days! Can't wait, gone for 5 days, hiking in 22km to the honey hole!!

 

[leadchucker]

Another one to feed the addiction!

 

[jhyatt01]

Leadchucker, you are making this year really really hard for me. Just got engaged so I have no money to spend on gear this year. Hoping for some for christmas and enough from wedding presents to get what I need for next year. If you need a partner for that hike next year I'd be more then willing

 

[leadchucker]

Well just made it back, sore and tired lol. Rain, snow, hail, wind and a grizz that wanted to make camp home, man i love sheep hunting. No legal rams spotted but got to see some nice new country! pics to follow.