The Buffalo

KNOW YOUR SPECIES. KNOW YOUR GROUNDS. KNOW YOUR QUARRY.

KNOW YOUR SHOT

Please have a look at the shot placement indications Above. For most North American game species the vitals are not always situated at the place you are used to aiming at.

TUNDAVALA HUNTING SAFARIS

Know The Species

The African buffalo, also known as the Cape buffalo, is a formidable and fascinating animal native to sub-Saharan Africa. They are known for their massive size, with adult males weighing up to 1,500 pounds and standing up to six feet tall at the shoulder.

 African buffalo are herbivores and feed on grasses and other vegetation. They have a unique digestive system that allows them to extract nutrients from tough plant material, making them able to survive in areas with sparse vegetation. Interestingly, African buffalo are known for their unpredictable and sometimes aggressive behaviour, making them one of the “Big Five” animals most feared by hunters and safari-goers alike.

They are also known for their close social bonds and will often form large herds, with dominant males leading the group. Despite their intimidating reputation, African buffalo are an important part of the African ecosystem and play a vital role in maintaining grassland habitats.

How To Aim From Different Angles

ALWAYS KEEP THE MUZZLE POINTED IN A SAFE DIRECTION

THE BUFFALO
KNOW YOUR SHOT

If the Cape buffalo is not quartering away too much: bisect the angle formed by the front legs and place the shot one third of the distance between the bottom of the chest and the top of the back. A shot from the left of the buffalo will have a better effect – ask us why when you are here.

Only attempt this shot if you know where your projectile will end up at inside the buffalo.

Reserve this shot if you have no other options at taking a decent shot.

THE BUFFALO
KNOW YOUR SHOT

Aim for the inside of the closer shoulder to allow sufficient penetration to hit the vital organs. This is why you need a large caliber rifle with extremely good ammunition. The chest is deep and the brisket thick.

If you have no other shot possibility, then this is the shot to take.

However, we suggest you wait for a better shot opportunity.

THE BUFFALO
KNOW YOUR SHOT

In the event of a facing on shot, aim for the centre of the chest just above the brisket where the throat joins the chest.
Head shots should be avoided as far as possible due to the relatively small brain area. If the shot is too high the boss will absorb the energy of the projectile giving a miserable animal a bad head-ache.
Be aware Cape buffalo shake their heads from time-to-time. Make sure you do not hit it in the nose as you will be giving an aggravated animal a good reason to want to stomp you.

THE THE BUFFALO
KNOW YOUR SHOT

Sigh of relief if you are offered a broad side shot. Ask us why a shot from the left side of the animal will yield a better result.
Under ideal conditions place the shot directly on the shoulder in line with the front leg, eight inches from the bottom of the chest to the top of the back. This shot will lead to a high heart shot.
Note on the shot placement diagram below the size of the lung area. Depending on the distance you are from the buffalo, a lung shot will be equally effective.

Caliber For Buffalo Hunting

Caliber to hunt a Buffalo When it comes to hunting buffalo in South Africa, it is crucial to choose a caliber that offers sufficient power and penetration for this large and formidable game. The following calibers are widely recognized as effective choices for hunting buffalo:

  • 375 Holland & Holland Magnum (H&H): This caliber is often considered the minimum acceptable choice for hunting buffalo. It offers excellent stopping power and penetration, making it a popular selection among professional hunters.
  • 416 Rigby: Known for its exceptional performance on heavy-bodied game, the .416 Rigby delivers remarkable stopping power and deep penetration, making it a favoured caliber for buffalo hunting.
  • 458 Winchester Magnum: This caliber offers substantial energy and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting buffalo at close to medium ranges. It is renowned for its ability to deliver decisive shots.

Caliber For Buffalo Hunting

Caliber to hunt a Buffalo When it comes to hunting buffalo in South Africa, it is crucial to choose a caliber that offers sufficient power and penetration for this large and formidable game. The following calibers are widely recognized as effective choices for hunting buffalo:

  • 375 Holland & Holland Magnum (H&H): This caliber is often considered the minimum acceptable choice for hunting buffalo. It offers excellent stopping power and penetration, making it a popular selection among professional hunters.
  • 416 Rigby: Known for its exceptional performance on heavy-bodied game, the .416 Rigby delivers remarkable stopping power and deep penetration, making it a favoured caliber for buffalo hunting.
  • 458 Winchester Magnum: This caliber offers substantial energy and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting buffalo at close to medium ranges. It is renowned for its ability to deliver decisive shots.
 
  • 458 Winchester Magnum: This caliber offers substantial energy and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting buffalo at close to medium ranges. It is renowned for its ability to deliver decisive shots.
  • .470 Nitro Express: With a long history of big game hunting, the .470 Nitro Express is a classic choice for hunting buffalo. It provides ample power and penetration to ensure clean kills.
  • .500 Nitro Express: This caliber is considered one of the most potent choices for hunting buffalo. It delivers immense stopping power and is well-suited for hunting these large and dangerous animals.

Remember, buffalo hunting is challenging and requires both skill and precision. It is crucial to use quality ammunition and practice shot placement to ensure an ethical and successful hunt. Additionally, always comply with local hunting regulations and seek guidance from experienced professional hunters or outfitters when planning your buffalo hunt.

 
  • 458 Winchester Magnum: This caliber offers substantial energy and stopping power, making it suitable for hunting buffalo at close to medium ranges. It is renowned for its ability to deliver decisive shots.
  • .470 Nitro Express: With a long history of big game hunting, the .470 Nitro Express is a classic choice for hunting buffalo. It provides ample power and penetration to ensure clean kills.
  • .500 Nitro Express: This caliber is considered one of the most potent choices for hunting buffalo. It delivers immense stopping power and is well-suited for hunting these large and dangerous animals.

Remember, buffalo hunting is challenging and requires both skill and precision. It is crucial to use quality ammunition and practice shot placement to ensure an ethical and successful hunt. Additionally, always comply with local hunting regulations and seek guidance from experienced professional hunters or outfitters when planning your buffalo hunt.

GET THE RIGHT PERMITS

SAPS Ammunition and Import Permits **NB**with regard to SAPS ammunition and rifle import permits please complete the form carefully in order to avoid long delays at the airport. Obtain an export permit from your local authorities. Forward the necessary signed documentation to our address We will on your behalf obtain the local required paperwork.

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