NitroX
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| (.700 member) |
| 13/09/16 03:41 PM |
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Re: Baikal as a base for a project rifle?
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Quote:
Down under where massive water buffalo can be had, and is to be hunted, I'd want something larger than the 9.3 x74R, but how often would one hunt the big stuff? Although I have no first hand experience with scrub Bulls, water buffalo and the like, I'd think the 9.3x74R with appropriate hard premium bullets and expert shot placement would work in a pinch, but again, this medium bore is NOT a stopping rifle. Limited funds being what they are, if one can cover off 99% of one's shooting needs with a reasonably priced medium bore, that is what I'd certainly gravitate towards with its lighter recoil and broader application envelope. A seven pound short handy rifle is much more pleasant to carry around as well, also a consideration given that a hunting rifle is carried a great deal more than it is actually shot.
I would quite happily use a 9.3x74R on any buffalo. Fourteen water buffalo to mine so far, but none were great big bulls. Like is often the case, takes more than one shot, unless a shot to the brain is used.
However if you do get say a wounded charge, there is far less "insurance" to back you up, especially if hunting alone. Watched a Simon Kyle-Little water buff hunting video last night and was surprised to hear him say, he gets a lot of charges from wounded buffalo. Maybe more common than I thought.
Many Aussies of course use deer sized calibres on water buffalo as well. How many buff escape wounded though overtime?
A great and IMO mild cartridge to use.
Also the price for a double usually increases once the .375 range and above is chambered. The 9.3 is considered a medium bore.