I agree 100%, I think Berger is more vigilant about there tips now.. I have shot 6 Aoudad all with Berger.. 180 grain Hybrid, 215 Hybrid, 140 Hybrid, 250 Elite hunter.. Never had a sheep not go down.. I wouldn't hesitate for a minute to shoot the 168.. Just make a good shot.. "Placement." Any bullet can fail with bad placement..We shot this ram with a 280 AI with 165 game changer at 377 yards. Both bullets did not exit. At first shot the ram didn't hardly react. I have killed a ton of Aoudad with a Berger from as small as a 95 grain 6mm. We short a big ram with a 243 WSSM and he walked off...we found him about 50 yards from where we shot him. I use a 338 RCM/338 Norma. I shoot a 250 berger in my Norma--and I make sure all tips are open after I tumble them. Your 280 AI should work well, just make sure the tips are open and you place your bullet right .
Like everyone says:I have decided that I want to go on an aoudad hunt in the next few years. The next couple seasons I will put in for Texas draw hunts, after my wife gets out of college, I'll probably go ahead and spend the money on a guide service.
While I wait I will be getting myself into better shape and getting the gear I need. I'm thinking boots first and good binoculars second.
Any suggestions on how else I can prepare? My shooting options are limited right now, but I will be participating in NRL22 matches, so at least I will be getting some trigger time other than shooting from a bench.