Just starting!

[Will65]

Hi all

I'm new to this, so go easy on me!

After many years of shooting rabbits with my .17HMR and FAC air rifle, I decided to finally take up stalking (been thinking about it for a good few years). I've recently completed my DSC1 as part of an introduction to stalking course and currently awaiting the certificate. I have permission to shoot fallow and muntjac on some land in Hertfordshire, but I feel that I need to build a bit more confidence/experience first and think I would benefit from a few more guided stalks. Can anyone recommend where I could get this in the south east/east of England?

I'm also considering which caliber rifle to go for on my FAC variation. I am thinking .243 or 6.5 x 55 Swede.....Any advice would be gratefully received.

Cheers

Will

 

[bryn]

Welcome to the site. 243 is a good all round caliber as 308, 6.5 Creedmoor or Swede. I like 243 as it is capable on all spices of deer and foxes as well and the ammunition is very accessible in varying weights.. Some say its too light for reds but I did my DSC2 with the deer manager a Chatsworth and thats all he used.
Best of luck
bryn

 

[JAYB]

Welcome to the site,

John

 

[bullet chucker]

Welcome to the site.

BC.

 

[Selous]

Welcome on board, sounds like you have most things in hand and are being sensible about how to progress. Personally I would choose 6.5 over a 243 and a 308 over a 6.5 as they hit noticeably harder. The 308 Win is the definitive all rounder from munties to red stag and wild boar. All I’m saying is don’t rule it out as it’s a great calibre with widely available rifles and ammunition.

 

[rem mag mark]

Welcome . I would say 243 as it’s a good all rounder , use lighter bullets for foxing and heavier bullets for deer . Picking the right calibre can be a mind field with so many to choose from.

 

[ChrisJB]

Hi Will - sounds a lot like the route I took only still haven’t managed to find a permission yet for deer ! Sikamalc is good for guided stalking he runs land just outside of Horsham.

 

[Hornet]

Welcome mate, and well done for going about things properly, on the subject of calibre, may I say .25-06 perfect for everything foxes with a 90gn bullet, to any UK deer species with a 120 GN bullet, give it serious consideration.

 

[Scotty99]

Welcome to the site. You seem to have things well in hand and are heading in the right direction.

As for calibre also consider .308 it's suitable for all species of deer, wild boar and plains game if you ever get the chance.

If you get into home loading you can work up a variety of loads for differing bullet weights to give you even more flexibility.

 

[arron]

Welcome mate, and well done for going about things properly, on the subject of calibre, may I say .25-06 perfect for everything foxes with a 90gn bullet, to any UK deer species with a 120 GN bullet, give it serious consideration.

Got to agree with everything said here ,,,very good advise on the calibre I must say ,,,, come to think of it I have a sako 75 for sale in said calibre,,, what ever you decide it sounds like your in for a good journey in the stalking world , atb Arron

 

[Will65]

Great welcome and advice guys...Thanks you all very much . I've added .308 and .25-06 to my potential wish list.