Getting ready for New Mexico deer hunt.

[DANNY243]

I'm getting ready for a rifle deer hunt in unit 21 in New Mexico. I'm going scouting next weekend and am going to test out the trajectories that I got from the Vortex LRBC program out to about 600 yards. I worked up a subMOA load for 7mm08 using H4350 and a 145 gr speer hotcor, chronographed at about 2920 fps. I really hope this is the year that I finally get to drop a buck. I could use any tips or advice you guys might have.

 

[horsey300]

I've never hunted New Mexico, but I've always wanted to visit! Congratulations to you! Are you looking for deer tips or New Mexico tips? I'm sure there will be plenty of both here.

 

[Captcurt]

I'm getting ready for a rifle deer hunt in unit 21 in New Mexico. I'm going scouting next weekend and am going to test out the trajectories that I got from the Vortex LRBC program out to about 600 yards. I worked up a subMOA load for 7mm08 using H4350 and a 145 gr speer hotcor, chronographed at about 2920 fps. I really hope this is the year that I finally get to drop a buck. I could use any tips or advice you guys might have.

I have been playing with a Vortex 6X18 on a 6.5 Creedmore. With a mild load and 129gr Accubond LR the BDC was dead on out to 500 yards. Your gun might shoot a little flatter since you are cranking 150 fps more with your load. I was impressed. I don't have a good load worked up yet and was still able to ring 8" plates from 300 to 500 yards 9 out of 10 shots. Let the wind get me on one.

 

[sage5907]

I would say just relax and enjoy the hunt. I've taken many deer with a Speer HotCor and they are an excellent bullet. Dress in layers so you can add or take off clothing as the temperature changes. Make sure you have a good pair of 8 or 10 power binoculars and start glassing at first light in the morning and stay out hunting until dark in the evening. Spend a lot of time watching oak brush, sage brush and alfalfa fields if they are in the area. Carry a shooting stick and use it for walking, climbing and shooting. Always keep a case of bottled water and snack food in the vehicle. Carry a compass and GPS so you always know where your vehicle is located.

 

[sage5907]

Danny, there's a video on YouTube that shows a Unit 21 Deer Hunt hunt in case you haven't found it yet. It shows a lot of sage brush and Juniper/Pinion type trees.

 

[d2wing]

Besides the high quality Binoculars, bring a good rangefinder.
.

 

[DANNY243]

Thanks guys for the good advise. I've gone hunting in New Mexico many times with my uncle, however, this is only the second time that I have my own tag. I've learned the value of optics over the years and I'm bringing the best glass that I can afford; Leupold 1000i range finder, Steiner Merlin 10x42's, Vortex Viper 4-12x40AO and a Konus 20-60x80 spotting scope. Our unit is huge and covers all types of terrain. We're going to start off the hunt in open county bordering irrigated agriculture and surrounded by low country (5000 ft) mountains. It's going to be a full moon and I expect mild temperatures in the 60's and 70's during the day. We're going to be doing a lot of glassing. If its a bust we can move into some high country for the last couple of days.

 

[H&Hhunter]

Danny, you have the right equipment for your hunt. Great optics great caliber, have fun and best of luck to you sir!