Hunters evolve as sportsmen and marksmen. Not all hunters are created equally. The thing most hunters enjoy is how fast the sport can humble you. There is always something new to learn. As we age, we need to make modifications in our hunting and shooting. Walking long distances may become a challenge. Eyesight changes as we age. Technology and other modifications may need to be added to our hunting skillsets.
I have always enjoyed hunting with a Single Shot. Whether it is with an arrow or a bullet/slug, single shot hunting requires that you become the best hunter and expert shooter that you can be.
Back in the Mountain Man days, if you took more than one shot, every Indian in the area would know where you were. This could become your death. Even snipers take a single shot then move positions. It just makes sense to make one accurate shot than to unload the full clip.
Making that single perfect shot is the result of many practice shots. Trigger time is the only way to tune your shooting skills. You need to be comfortable and confident with your weapon.
Timing the single shot is vital. When you pull the trigger will decide the outcome. You need to wait for the critter to turn sideways, stop, move away from cover, and present a perfect target. Shooting at a moving or running critter often means a miss or wounding the critter.
My Single Shot rifle is a Ruger 31 in 30-06 caliber. I have an excellent scope mounted onto the rifle and hoist it with a Montana Sling. This style sling allows me to wrap into the sling so I can be stabilized and secure when I shoot.
I usually carry 3 rounds when I Single Shot hunt. If it takes me more shots than that, shame on me. If you focus on one perfect shot, you will not need the extra two rounds. 2 of the rounds are under my elastic watch band on my left wrist. I have dummy rounds that I use for reloading practice. The Ruger #1 requires that I lower a lever to open the falling block, insert a second round, close the action, and get back onto the scope. A lot can happen in those few reloading moments. It’s best that you make the first shot count.
My longest single rifle shot is 450 yards at a bull elk. My 50-cal. Hawken black powder shots best were 275 yards. Using a shotgun slug, I tagged a buck at 175 yards. 18 yards is my longest archery shot. Each shot was one shot, one kill.
Getting close is important. This is where great hunting skills come into play. Stalking, scouting, and developing a plan will help the hunter make a closer and more reliable shot.
Use a rest, shooting stick, or sling supported hold. You want to minimize your movement and breathing. Lean on your pack, against a tree, use a walking stick, a bipod, and shoot from a secure rest.
Become the Terminator! Focus on the one perfect shot. Find that space between breathes and squeeze the trigger smoothly. This requires great patience and control, especially when things are so exciting. Clear your mind of everything except the One Perfect Shot. Once the critter is down, you do your Happy Dance!
You hunt and shoot differently when you know that you have just one shot. Waiting for just the right moment and target requires patience and self-control. These qualities make you a better and safer sharpshooter.
Aim small, miss small!
Montana Grant
