I’m late to the game, but this thread has all my favorites (long range shooting, hunting, and deer calibers) so here goes.
Saintnick, sounds like you made a solid choice. The Compass won’t win any fit and finish competitions, but they seem to be capable rifles. Additionally, don’t get too hung up on insane accuracy if it’s strictly a 300 yard hunting gun. Even a 2MOA rifle is only ~6” at 300 yards, so it will get the job done. Hookeye is right- learn to judge by body shape. At 300 yards, it can be tough to make out the antlers or characteristics that indicate age. Shape and size will be helpful.
Also, practicepracticepractice! You can’t shoot a deer at 300 unless you have first shot at that distance enough times, from enough positions, in enough conditions, to guarantee a hit. Practice shooting in the wind. On a perfectly calm day with great conditions, I would feel very comfortable taking a deer at 300+ yards. (See below link.) If the weather is poor, or my position isn’t so great, no way. Find someone knowledgeable and get them to teach you. (Ahem, Phylodog...)
Churchmouse, some of us certainly do take deer at those distances, albeit not often. It’s a nice ability to have if the opportunity presents, however!
Here’s my write up from last year of shooting a deer past 300.
https://www.indianagunowners.com/fo...22-bringing-all-together-bagging-my-buck.html
Saintnick, sounds like you made a solid choice. The Compass won’t win any fit and finish competitions, but they seem to be capable rifles. Additionally, don’t get too hung up on insane accuracy if it’s strictly a 300 yard hunting gun. Even a 2MOA rifle is only ~6” at 300 yards, so it will get the job done. Hookeye is right- learn to judge by body shape. At 300 yards, it can be tough to make out the antlers or characteristics that indicate age. Shape and size will be helpful.
Also, practicepracticepractice! You can’t shoot a deer at 300 unless you have first shot at that distance enough times, from enough positions, in enough conditions, to guarantee a hit. Practice shooting in the wind. On a perfectly calm day with great conditions, I would feel very comfortable taking a deer at 300+ yards. (See below link.) If the weather is poor, or my position isn’t so great, no way. Find someone knowledgeable and get them to teach you. (Ahem, Phylodog...)
Churchmouse, some of us certainly do take deer at those distances, albeit not often. It’s a nice ability to have if the opportunity presents, however!
Here’s my write up from last year of shooting a deer past 300. https://www.indianagunowners.com/fo...22-bringing-all-together-bagging-my-buck.html
