Zeroing for hinds on the hill

I hope to take up the offer of some hill stalking for red hinds after the Christmas holidays. My experience with my .243 rifle has so far been with muntjac and foxes. My host has told me that the shooting will be different and I am keen to get it right when I go. My rifle is currently zeroed to hit the target at 60m and most shots I get are less than this. Should I re-zero to 100m or do you recommend more than that?

Stalking red hinds on the hill or open moorland will be very different to the shooting you are used to. The general advice is that shots are in the 150m range though often they will be closer depending on the topography of the ground and the skill of the stalker. You will need to alter the zero on your rifle. Perhaps start by taking it out to 100m and familiarise yourself with taking shots at that range from a variety of positions and with a number of aids, such as a bipod or backpack. Once you are comfortable with that, it would be beneficial to get comfortable with shooting out to 150m with the zero adjusted accordingly.

Remember that it is important to be confident with your equipment and not to over-extend yourself when it comes to taking shots. Often if you are not used to shooting in the open, judging range can be challenging and you should make use of the expertise of your guide, as well as being aware of your own limitations. IW

SHOOTING TIMES & COUNTRY MAGAZINE • 49

Shooting on the hill is a very different experience so it is best to be prepared in every way you can