Preparing for Aoudad Hunt

[LanceK]

I have decided that I want to go on an aoudad hunt in the next few years. The next couple seasons I will put in for Texas draw hunts, after my wife gets out of college, I'll probably go ahead and spend the money on a guide service.

While I wait I will be getting myself into better shape and getting the gear I need. I'm thinking boots first and good binoculars second.

Any suggestions on how else I can prepare? My shooting options are limited right now, but I will be participating in NRL22 matches, so at least I will be getting some trigger time other than shooting from a bench.

 

[wyosteve]

I should be able to give you some ideas at the end of Feb. I'm heading down to Van Horn in mid-Feb. for my first time chasing aoudad. To this point, I've approached it just like hunting sheep or elk in the mountains. Lots of leg work and shooting out to 400 yds.

 

[kmarsh1966]

I took one high fence at 434 this past November. Trying to set up one in the FT Stockton area now. I shoot PRS so right there with you on the practice. From what I understand wind can be an issue.

On my prior hunt I used 6.5 PRC with Berger 156 EOL at 3044. I shot a Sika at 230 with the same bullet (same trip) perfect shot broadside right up the front leg 1/3 the way up. The first shot didnt phase him. I fired second shot same. the guide tells me that shot was low. I aim at top of back, and see splash over the top of him, he finally reacts to that. He steps to the right quartering to me. So I put one more in him in his chest. Now he starts running and is wobbly slows with the opposite side, and i put one more in him..... He is finally down. I'm mortified, I CAN SHOOT. The only visible entrance is shot #4. In necropsy every round hit. #1 perfect shot. #2 1" either left or right of shot #1. #3 tore the hair off the mane and left a 1-2" strip of skin without any penetration. #4 front right chest. #5 was Right broadside 1/2 way up the animal up the right leg.

Every Shot but #3 were Fatal. I intentionally pushed the berger EOL to 3040 thinking that was going to be "the hammer". Impact velocity was 2700 FPS on the Sika.

Auodad - same bullet different story. Impact velocity 2500 fps. Broadside, typical berger BANG - FLOP one shot.

 

[LanceK]

Thanks for the replies so far. I haven't decided on a gun yet, it will be 270 or larger, just haven't found the right gun yet.

 

[Bucklowery]

Looks fun. It is definitely on the list. A lot of guys are talking about this hunt in the group hunt thread. Hopefully some of us members will be able to hunt together soon


Thanks

Buck

 

[James DeTorre]

headed west next month for first Auodad. Think 280ai. with factory 168 Bergers/ Federal. Got bigger and smaller guns. Thoughts from experienced Auodad hunters?

 

[Aoudad shooter1975]

Walk a lot...shoot angles when you can...practice 300-500 yards...get a good pack with a water bladder, remember when you pull the trigger shoot him farther forward than you think. Use a good constructed bullet or step up one caliber than you think--I use a 338 a lot (RCM, Norma) --(your 270 is great with a good bullet). When you leave the truck--fill your water up and take an extra bottle, brake your boots in before you go-also get some that are just stiffer than a trail boot...Get a good light wool shirt I like the KUIU, or Merino first lite--wicks sweat good....did I mention take plenty of water... . Enjoy when you go!!

 

[LanceK]

I currently average 4 miles of walking a day and 20 flights of stairs a day, so I at least have a start on the walking bit. I live just outside Palo Duro Canyon, so I'm going to start training there when I can. I'll look into the wool shirt. Thanks!

 

[Elkeater]

Like others have said. Be in mountain shape because it's a mountain hunt. Running, ruck hikes, body weight resistance type workouts. Be proficient with a rifle out to 500-600 yards. Though your shots might be closer. When I went last year we killed three sheep. Furthest shot was 440 yards shortest 225 yards. I would suggest at least a .270 with a mono bullet or at least a bonded bullet. They are very tough and vitals are further forward than on a deer. Take a good pack and plenty of water. Good binos on a tripod and a spotting scope are a must have item for me. Good knife and game bags as well. Do not leave the meat behind it is pretty good eating if cooked and handled correctly.

 

[Aoudad 101]

Average shot is 400 . I have taken 6 with a 243 win 105 bergers and all bang flops. High sholder shots

 

[Mcranch]

What rifle/ bino optics are y'all using?

 

[Aoudad 101]

Remington 40x 243 Meopta R1 4x16x44

 

[snox801]

I just got back from Texas did some culling of audad. Like said be prepared to shoot 300-500. I got all but a few under 150 but it sure is great when you can only get to 400 to be sure of your shot. Took a bunch with my 6.5 creed and 3 with my grendel. Key is tough bullet. Hit the front shoulder and break them down. They are tough and can cover ground fast. Mine were all shot with 99gr hammers in the Grendel and 124 hammers in the creed even at 408 they break both shoulders and come out the back side.
Make sure you ya e good bios. I have Leica but you can get better bang for buck. Also range finder in bios are important. You only have a small amount of time in most cases so range dial and shot.

 

[LanceK]

Thanks for all the replies. I've got a lot of work to do to get ready! 300-500 yards sure seems like a long ways. I'll have to practice a lot!