Rifles & Calibers
Recommended Calibers for Plains Game
Plains game species vary in size and toughness, so selecting a caliber with adequate power and accuracy is essential for an ethical, clean hunt.
Common and Recommended Calibres:
.270 Winchester
.308 Winchester
.30-06 Springfield
.300 Winchester Magnum
7mm Remington Magnum
These calibres are ideal for antelope species such as springbok, impala, gemsbok, kudu, wildebeest, and eland. A well-placed shot with these calibers provides excellent knock-down power without excessive recoil.
Recommended Calibers for Dangerous Game
When pursuing Africa’s Big Five (buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard, rhino) or other dangerous species, minimum legal requirements and common-sense safety dictate larger, heavy-caliber rifles.
Common and Recommended Calibres:
.375 H&H Magnum (Legal minimum in most African countries for dangerous game)
..416 Rigby
.458 Lott
.470 Nitro Express
The .375 H&H Magnum is considered the entry point for dangerous game and offers versatility for both large and smaller species. Larger bore rifles provide additional stopping power when hunting thick-skinned game like buffalo and elephant.
General Guidelines
Rifles must be properly sighted in before your safari.
Quality bullets are critical: bonded soft points or premium expanding bullets for plains game; solid non-expanding bullets for dangerous game.
Bring a caliber you’re comfortable and confident shooting. Shot placement is more important than sheer size.
We can advise you further based on your specific package and species.
Bringing your own rifle
Firearm permits are required for South Africa and Zimbabwe.
Temporary import permits can be arranged with our assistance.
Ensure your rifle is cased properly for air travel and complies with airline regulations.
Ammunition limits typically apply (usually 100–200 rounds per caliber).