Taking the Shot Proper Shot Placement

Is it safe to take a shot?

Clearly identify your target: This is critically important. Some shooters get so excited at the sight of game—or what they think is game—that they pull the trigger. If you’re mistaken, that’s a shot you can never take back.   

Always be absolutely certain of your target, and if there’s any question at all, don’t shoot. Know what’s beyond the target: This is a simple piece of advice that you’ll hear time and again, but it’s a critical element to a safe hunt.

Do I have an opportunity for a good shot?

To reach the vitals, your bullet needs a clear path that won’t be obstructed by bone, and this usually means a broadside shot is best. If the animal is angling toward you or away from you, the shot angle changes, and in many cases you won’t get a clear path to the intended target—the heart and lungs.

Do I have a good shot angle?

The broadside chest is the best target area for optimum bullet placement. 

If I shoot, can I recover the animal?

Know your limits: There’s a lot of talk about long-range shooting, but there are very few instances where a really long shot is ethical and very few hunters who have the capability and equipment to make those shots. Don’t let the excitement of seeing an animal entice you into taking a long or risky shot, and avoid shooting at moving animals. 

Never shoot at sky-lined animals or animals out of range.

Once you can guarantee the answer is yes to all these questions concentrate on fixing a precise point, on the heart / lung area. Make sure the animal is still and broadside, this means the animal is horizontal facing either left or right, and not looking directly at you or facing away from you. You may also take an effective shot when the animal is positioned quartering towards or quartering away from you.

Safe zone of fire when firing?

Always be cautious of your zone of fire when shooting at running or fast-moving game. Do not shoot unless you are confident that you can make an effective shot within your zone of fire. Shoot from a reasonable distance. Never exaggerate your ability and know your limit. If your firearm has a range of 200 meters, do not insist on shooting at 400 meters. Do not let your excitement of seeing the animal affect your shot. Take your time! Shoot in the vital zone!

If the animal is at an angle, it is still possible to take a shot at the heart / lung area, however your chances for a well-placed shot are less because the area will be smaller and this makes it easier to hit a bone.

To Shoot or Not To Shoot?

It is not recommended to shoot these particular body parts on Big Game:

• The head due to the thickness of the skull.
• The neck because hitting the artery can be difficult.
• Directly from behind because there is no access to vital organs or directly in front because you only have partial access to vital organs if you do not hit a bone. Therefore, you risk losing it and inflicting a slow death to the animal.

Always handle your firearm safely. Sometimes excitement can lead us to forgetting the basic rules for handling our weapon.