techy. Craig Simms shoots a very interest- ing load through his .50 calibre guns – a turned .458 copper bullet in a plastic sabot with a ‘power band’ at its base (see pic). This is extremely efficient and accounts for the accuracy and killing power of his guns. The muzzle velocity is 1,800 fps with 120 grains of black powder substitute.
O.K. back to the chase. Starting early, we glassed up a herd of Impala through the clouds at Lake Eland. It was a wonderful place, and the romance of the day was made by this magnificent start. Craig prepped the gun, only leaving me to place the cap on the nipple when I was in position. Because I am a pessimist, I also took my .300 Win Mag Tikka along. It all went like clockwork, though. We worked the wind to our advantage. I got into a comfortable shooting position set my sticks up. The beasts came over the hill to my front on cue. I was, meantime, drinking in the beauty of my surroundings as a decent Impala buck was quietly breakfasting by a tree 100 yards or so in front. I looked through the Schmidt and went for his shoul- der (my preferred shot in Africa). I squeezed the trigger and he fell over in a most satisfying manner amidst a small cloud of smoke. I favour the shoulder shot for Af- rica because it pins things to the spot. One wants to avoid wandering around the bush searching for beasts if possible.
The beast knocked cleanly down, I handed the handsome and effective custom Mkonto back to Craig, and went into it with my Tikka .300. One must never take any African animal for granted, even if you are sure it’s dead. My SOP is to ap- proach all game from behind, coming downhill if possible, I proud the eye with the muzzles. I do it everytime – make good practice a habit and you will not get caught out. Dangerous game often gets up once shot and seemingly expired (because of this, one always puts in a final shot when it is downed), but plains game - not to
I Shoot and Fish E-Zine March 2012
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