Rookie Needs Some Help

[bilmcc]

Hello all, new member here. I am a pretty active member on other hunting and shooting forums. But I am heading on my first Africa hunt this year and figured I needed to join a forum with some experts in this realm. I am a super detailed person who extra plans everything. So I wanted to literally lay out my entire plan and hunt for you guys. And please chime in on any of various topics. I don't want to learn the hard way on any of these issues. Sorry for the long post.... here goes nothing.

I am heading to Huntershill Safari this August. My list is:
- Kudu
- Eland
- Zebra
- Gembok
- Blue Wildebeest
- (maybe) Sable

Being I am from Canada I am flying with Air Canada to London. Then London to Johan and Johan to East London on South African Air. Now from what I know London is no issue at all when travelling with partner airlines correct? Air Canada and South African air are both Star Alliance as is British airways. From what I know I check the gun in Toronto and don't see it until East London. Is there any forms I need to complete prior to arrival in London? What is the easiest way to get the gun permit when landing in Johan? My flight home is Johan to Munich. But again the same is true with Star Alliance airlines. Anyone have issues with either Munich or London?

As mentioned I am bringing my rifle. Rifle is a 300win mag Fierce Edge bolt action control fed rifle. I roll my own ammo and have currently built up a load using 212 grain Hornady ELD-X bullets, which is flying 2850fps (870m/s). Does anyone have any poor experience on the above species with ELD - X ? They work wonders for me on Canadian black bears, moose and deer. I just hear so much about the hide on African animals, I wanted to be sure.

I understand August is winter, although I am seeing average temps in the 20C range. I mean that is hardly winter. I am used to hunting more in the -20C range. I understand it is not a ton of rain this time of year either. So should I simply pack long pants, long sleeve hunting gear. And just in case pack a medium weight jacket for cooler mornings? I will obviously have my holy trinity with me Gun, Binoculars and knife. Any other gear that I would not naturally assume to bring that would be helpful?

Ok so now the after party. I have taken my hit list..... now what?????? This is the part that is making me spin with difference of opinions. I live down the road from one of the worlds top Taxidermists. These guys do work for TV stars like Jim Shockey, Tim Wells, Beasley brothers etc. They are incredible and I truly can't imagine trusting anyone else as they have done all my North American Species. They have been super helpful and giving me the advice on how this whole process will go. Now I want to ask all of you. Dip and Pack, anything I need to know? The guide has given me the pricing. Nothing crazy it was roughly $100 per animal, some a little more. What have most of you paid for shipping? since its not tanned you need air ship correct? Any other help on this topic would make me feel a lot better.

I miss anything?

If that gun is the one you shoot the best, you are well set. I would back off on bullet speed, but that is just me.
Are you taking the knife as a gift? Can't think of any other use you might have for one. I brought the pocket knife I always carry at home and never took it out of my pocket. A needle works better for digging out thorns. If you are thinking in terms of last ditch defense, bring a big boar knife. Save the weight.

 

[Art Lambart II]

One more piece of advice, you have the larger PG on your list don't discount the impala and Blesbok as great hunts. I would recommend you start with one of them to get rid of the "African Fever". Zebra was on the top of my list and it was the first animal I hunted on my safari. The excitement and adrenaline rush of your first hunt in Africa is a very real thing. I made a poor first shot on the zebra in my avatar and he lead us on a marry chase before I could close the deal. On my next safari I'll start with something small to cure me of the "African Fever", I recommend you do the same.