35 Whelen in Africa

Tom Lorenzen · 01-29-2007, 12:24 PM

Does anyone have EXPERIENCED-BASED information on either the 35 Whelen or 338-06 for Africa? I plan to take one or the other as my "light" rifle for use on plains game this year. Shooting conditions will be 100 yards and in, through thick mopane bush. Bullets will likely travel through bush before impact.I plan on 225 grain Barnes Triple Shock, as both are very accurate in my rifles.Game will include eland, kudu, and zebra.
Thanks. Tom L. Durango, Co.

Buckshot · 01-29-2007, 01:53 PM

Quote:

Bullets will likely travel through bush before impact

I have stupid ? but why would you shoot if you dont have a clear shot at the vitals? seems to me if you have to shoot thru brush to hit the animal, you dont shoot.

EKM · 01-29-2007, 03:40 PM

Tom,

Nice light rifle, curious what you are taking for the heavy.
As to your question, IMHO you are at the wrong web site for African questions, go to:

www.accuratereloading.com [African Big Game Hunting]

There you will find those who can speak from experience, as per your request.

James B · 01-30-2007, 08:21 PM

Both of those rifles work fine. I prefer the 338-06 if ranges are a bit on the long side.

tmeservey · 01-31-2007, 12:02 PM

The 35 whalen is a nice caliber but not flat enough for my taste. I would prefer a 338, 325 WSM or even a 375 HH for big plains game and alittle longer shots. Brushy shots are a no-no in Africa.

My second rifle would be a Rem 416, I would love to fire a 505 gibbs on the big stuff. Just don't have one.