First Dall Sheep Hunt (8/25) - 30.06 or _____? Thanks!

[PoconoBrowns]

Gents & Ladies of the Field,

Going on first ever sheep hunt this August, NWT.

Curious as to thoughts on Dall Sheep gun caliber and scope?

Especially on the scope game - should I upgrade to a more technically-wired scope for long distance, or do any of you find that your average scope for deer hunting, can fit the bill?

Thanks for thoughts!


Best,
J Wright

 

[waspocrew]

I'll be heading up there in 2026 for my first sheep hunt and can't wait. When I spoke to my outfitter and several references, I was told not shots are 300 and in (often pretty close). Your 30-06 should be plenty. No need for a fancy scope for long distance shots - your guide will get you as close as possible. If you wound a sheep and don't recover, your hunt is done.

 

[waspocrew]

PS -who will you be hunting with? I'm heading out with South Nahanni.

 

[Elkfitness]

Congrats. I would use your most accurate rifle and use a scope you have tested at all your distances.

 

[PoconoBrowns]

PS -who will you be hunting with? I'm heading out with South Nahanni.

South Nahanni August 2-10. You?

 

[PoconoBrowns]

I'll be heading up there in 2026 for my first sheep hunt and can't wait. When I spoke to my outfitter and several references, I was told not shots are 300 and in (often pretty close). Your 30-06 should be plenty. No need for a fancy scope for long distance shots - your guide will get you as close as possible. If you wound a sheep and don't recover, your hunt is done.

I appreciate that. Will take my best friend rifle - most comfortable!

 

[clwg97]

Find a rifle you know inside and out. I always try and make sure on a far out trip like that it is a common cartridge. Don't go for a 280 AI or something wild like that. 30-06 will be perfect!

 

[waspocrew]

South Nahanni August 2-10. You?

I basically have the same dates with S Nahanni, but in 2026. Looking forward to hearing about your hunt!

 

[The Oregonian]

I think a 6.5 PRC is about the perfect sheep caliber. Flat shooting and packs a punch with minimal recoil, and enough energy for as far as I care to shoot at a sheep.

 

[nwmnbowhunter]

Super solid rings too

 

[quandary]

I would say a sheep hunt deserves a new light weight rifle to haul around the mountains. 6.5PRC, 6/6.5PRC, 6.5CM, 25-06 etc!

 

[HARPERC]

.30-06 is always an easy button answer. Especially with modern components.

 

[PoconoBrowns]

I basically have the same dates with S Nahanni, but in 2026. Looking forward to hearing about your hunt!

Absolutely. Am and will be an open book!