I made it up to Ellis Brown's annual Elephant Hunt event in Northern Colorado last weekend. I had such a good time, I still don't feel entirely recovered yet today. Shot a number of doubles and one bolt gun, ate some wonderful foods, had some truly spectacular conversations, and after the range had been closed, had a few drinks.
First gun was an Isaac Hollis double in 500-465. This was my first ever "heavy". Recoil was notable, but not insurmountable.
Next was a hammer Tolley BPE double in 450-400. This gun was a pleasure to shoot. More push or shove than "kick". Neat old gun.
After that was my 1st bolt gun, a big Mauser action in .416 Rigby (the "real" .416). This one was a little punishing. After 3 rounds I was happy to relinquish it.
Finished-out with a 9x57 Sauer double. Lovely petite gun, moderate recoil. Pleasant to shoot.
If I had gotten started earlier in the day, I would have likely tried a few more but since this was my 1st time at this event I ended up talking much more than shooting. The drink really crept up on me this time, to the point that I had to park my car and arrange a ride home (lack of practice these days, I fear). In the past, all the food would have saved me, but not this time. Getting old really sucks.
But...good fun and good company! The weather has been fall-like here for the last few days and this event really got me in the autumnal frame of mind. Walking every morning now and back to floor exercises again. Got to get-over from the effects of this recent "desk job" of mine.
Last edited by Lloyd3; 08/14/23 12:30 PM.
