Large caliber - SAKO 85 300 / 338 / 7mm / 375

If you’re going after dangerous game you need to make sure you have the stopping power to bring it down the first time every time.  Knowledge of your quarry, the topography of your hunting area, and the capabilities of your firearm at various distances will help ensure that most of the controllable elements of your hunt are in place when that shot of a lifetime presents itself.

Choosing a high quality firearm that is precision machined with a smooth action and trigger mechanism is an absolute must.  I’m a firm believer that big game demands big power, whether hunting dangerous game in Africa, or confronted by dangerous game in Canada, a top quality bolt action rifle is the only way to go.  Smooth feeding and easy drop in loading for a follow up shot once the magazine is empty can sometimes be the difference between life and death in the field.

After buying a rifle that you intend to use for dangerous game make sure that you get supremely comfortable with the firearm so that lifting it to your cheek, pointing and firing become second nature.  Make sure the bolt is smooth as silk and that the ejection system is smooth and never ever hangs up.  Firing hundreds of rounds at the range is the only way you will gain the skill and confidence you need to hunt big and dangerous game.

Make sure you don’t buy more gun than you can handle. Many dealers will have demo rifles for you to test fire and taking advantage of this service will help ensure that you and your rifle are compatible before taking the plunge.  A last minute flinch in anticipation of a heavy recoil can mean the difference between putting meat in the freezer or just taking your rifle for a long walk…or worse.  

The 7mm , 300 Win Mag and 338 Win Mag all have great stopping power when it comes to 99% of Canadian big game.  When tangling with big bears on the ground I like the added comfort of a 375 H&H to take care of business.  I know this type of hunting is not for everyone and having complete confidence in your firearm is absolutely critical.  No hunter wants to see a wounded animal at any time, but when you’re hunting dangerous game a wounded animal is unpredictable and your hunt could quickly become a matter of survival.

A firearm should be considered as an investment in your hunting future so choose a quality firearm from a quality manufacturer, like the fine SAKO products that we use here at Canada in the Rough™ and you’ll never look back.