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We have a calf moose season for a week or two in October - used to be cow or calf - now only calves. The regular bull hunt, without a limited-entry big bull draw tag, is for 2 point or spike (1 point) bulls (18 months) only. Since this type of restriction started in 1989, it effectively took the pressure off the bigger breeding bulls, thus the genetics have improved enough that now there are very few 2 points (or spikes) per side bulls left.

Most of the 18 month old bulls now have between 3 to 8 points per side - with small palms. Their bodies are LOT bigger as well, where they used to dress out at 275pounds, now are closer to 400pounds dressed out on the hooks and the odd on close to 500pounds.

Here are the hind quarters of a calf (5 months old) I shot 5 years ago, with my then-new 9.3x57, at 200meters. 270gr. Speer, 2,300fps MV. The impact speed was between 1,800fps and 1,900fps, approx.

Rib picture showing where the bullet entered the cavity after smashing out 2 1/2" of leg bone. Note the long bony structures above the spine- that is the moose's hump. Do not shoot there - he'll usually drop, then get up and run - and not stop. It is not a fatal shot unless there is enough shock to the spinal cord to sever it - that cord is well protected - don't do it. Shoot him in the 'lights'(lungs) to guarantee a kill.

Even though just a calf, he's still a good chunk of meat.

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Daryl

"a gun without hammers is like a Spaniel without ears" King George V

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