Ideal shooting distance for 6x47 Lapua when hunting prairie dogs?

Choosing the Right Ammunition

When hunting prairie dogs at ranges of 300-400 yards, it’s essential to choose the right ammunition. The 6x47 Lapua is known for its exceptional accuracy and flat trajectory. For hunting prairie dogs, a bullet weight of 75-90 grains is ideal, as it offers a balance between range and terminal performance. The Lapua Varmint Load, for example, features a 87-grain bullet with a muzzle velocity of 2,900 fps, making it an excellent choice for prairie dog hunting at long ranges.

Shooting Techniques for Long Ranges

At 300-400 yards, shooting techniques become crucial for accurate placement. It’s essential to use a high-quality scope with a magnification of at least 10x, and a reticle that provides precise aiming points. To compensate for bullet drop, aim slightly high, taking into account the bullet’s trajectory at the chosen range. For example, at 350 yards, the 87-grain Lapua Varmint Load drops approximately 14.5 inches, so aiming 2-3 inches high should result in a perfect shot. Practice shooting at longer ranges to develop muscle memory and improve your accuracy.

Spotting and Scoring

When hunting prairie dogs, it’s essential to have a good spotting scope to identify and track your targets. A 20-60x spotting scope is ideal for spotting and scoring, allowing you to accurately place your shots. When spotting, look for the animal’s head and shoulders, aiming for the head to ensure a quick kill. After scoring a hit, be prepared to quickly follow up with another shot to ensure a clean kill.