Tips for a new hunter?

The Rem. 700 is a very good rifle. I've owned several and all were good shooters, some excellent. If you go for a Mauser, I would try and find one of the Yugoslavians that have been imported recently. They're like new and the one I had shot well with iron sights. The problem with military guns is that they are heavy, and scope mounting will be more of a chore. One cheaper rifle you might consider would be a Savage. They are inexpensive and shoot very well. Whatever rifle you choose, zero it, then practice from field positions (good to do with the .22 as well if you want to save some $ on ammo). Also, I don't know how sensitive you are to recoil, but you don't want to start a flinch problem. If you think this might be a problem, a .260 or 7mm-08 may be a better choice.

Learning to hunt from someone is a good idea, it's how I learned, but it does depend on the teacher. Considering some hunters I have met, self teaching does have some merit. Like the others who replied, I recommend a hunter safety course. Also, you will meet a fair number of anti-hunters in your life. If they are willing to listen, you can try and explain why you hunt; if they rant and rave, do not lower yourself to their level, just walk away.

Be safe, and good luck!
 
Yans said some VERY good advice.I might add lisen to the guys who hunt the land you do.I own some farm land and hunt my wifes cousens farm 4,ooo acres:D .Ok I hunt a small part of it,but after 15 years I know the land,the deer and where they run,hide,eat and sleep.Yet every year I'll tell guys to go here,sit there,stand here on this drive etc.And every year they'll think over there looks better,this isn't a good spot etc.and they watch the deer run by where they weretold to go.

I'm thinking of telling them to stand at the wrong spot so they'll move to where they really should be.;)
 
im2smrt4u - take a Hunter's Safety course in California, where you live. I used to be an instructor, and there's a lot of useful material conveyed pretty efficiently.

The suggestions to purchase a decent used rifle are quite good if you are on a budget. I'd be a bit careful going the military-surplus route unless you have an eye for guns - there's a lot of junk out there. On the other hand, it's a great way to save money if you find a good one.

I myself am a fan of the .270 for Western hunting.
 
Originally posted by bae
im2smrt4u - take a Hunter's Safety course in California, where you live. I used to be an instructor, and there's a lot of useful material conveyed pretty efficiently.

I myself am a fan of the .270 for Western hunting.
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Where can I find out more info about those courses?

Also, why would you suggest the .270? You think the 30.06 is too big?
 
Originally posted by im2smrt4u
Where can I find out more info about those courses?
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Try <a href="http://www.dfg.ca.gov/huntered/">here</a> - your local range, or rod&gun club probably offers one at a convenient time.

Also, why would you suggest the .270? You think the 30.06 is too big?
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The .270 is nice and flat-shooting, has good long-range punch, and is enough gun for North American game. It also works great with light bullets, making it better than the 30-06 for small game.

If you're planning on concentrating on elk, moose, and grizzly, you might want to give the 30-06 the nod. Otherwise, I think the .270 is a better all-around cartridge.
 
I would suggest one of the "medium powered" .30 caliber rifles. Whatever that means.

It won't have so much kick and muzzle report that you will shoot badly, but will still be very effective on animals.

Do go with an experienced guy/group the first time. They can help you out and help you get your foot in the door. With experience, you will figure out for yourself the best mode for doing things.

Don't put any stock in that anti-hunting blather. Lot of squeamish bunk. You can be morally straight, a gentleman AND a hunter. It all meshes well.

Cheers
 
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