Africa, Cape Buffalo

BIGOLMULEY · Apr 27, 2007

So I am leaning towards Mozambique in 09' for Cape Buffalo. I have shot a 72# bow as my peak, but need 80# plus for dangerous game, (Buffalo) I actually shoot 63#'s now. My question is, what bow for this higher poundage? I am sure I will be shooting in the 80 to 85# range. I have heard Bowtech a bunch on a few sites, and Mathews makes a safari bow. Anyone shoot one? Also, anyone with experience over there with these heavier bows and arrrows. 900 plus grains minimum. Need the kinetic energy of course. I would guess over 80.

Thanks,

Jason "The Big Ol' Muley"

I have 2 years to build up the strength. I am not a big guy, but have been trying to get bigger. I want to be able to shoot this bow with no problems. I want a smooth draw if a Buffalo is staring me down.

Wyogstew1 · Apr 27, 2007

dude youre crazy! ive been to south africa and had a buffalo charge the van i was in. that being said, i wouldnt hunt them with anything less than a high powered rifle, but if thats your game, go for it.

Happy Hunting

canhunter · Apr 27, 2007

Find the smoothest drawing light bow for you then get custom limbs if needed. Most will have an option from the factory to upgrade the limbs to more pounds. I would find the bow I like then go to the poundage needed. Two years is more then enough time to get up to 80+. I was amazed at the hide on a cape I saw at Cabelas. The hair and hide was absolutely amazing to look at. The blue Wildebeast (sp) was freaking amazing and way cool also. Plus you a man with some serious boys bow alone with no rifle back up...yes I am jelous of not being able to hunt Africa period...not your boys.

NickJ1980 · Apr 27, 2007

If you are able, come to Grand Junction, CO and find Red Rock Archery. These guys really know their way around a bow and they have set up quite a few guys for dangerous game. Gabe (the owner) has incredible connections for getting specialized gear.

If I'm not mistaken, Magnus Broadheads was making a head just for them to use for these set ups, something like a 200 grain 2 blade I think. There's an arrow in the shop with one of these heads that was a complete pass through on a giraffe.

I also heard of a guy with a 35 inch draw length that they set up with a 105 pound draw Mathews for an elephant hunt.

If nothing else, give him a call and Gabe will send you in the right direction. Red Rock Archery (970) 241-2697

elknut1 · Apr 28, 2007

http:www.elknut.com

I kmow nothing about the bow part, but your choice of head should be the best head on earth for that job. The Silver Flame in 210grn.
Check it out! http://herbsarchery.com/herbssilverflame.html

It was made originally for African game!

ElkNut1

slider · Apr 28, 2007

Why cant you use a 60 lb with a Poison arrow!!!lol

BIGOLMULEY · Apr 29, 2007

So I guess I will have to order some custom limbs then. It does make me a bit nervous I will not lie. I have no death wish, my PH will have his .458 backing me up. I wish to not die. Last year they had 6 bowhunters and 4 killed buffalo. The other two gut shot there's and told him not to shoot. If I make a bad shot I will have him shoot. If I make any kind of shot that he charges us, I will have him shoot.
One of the guys was shooting a 70# longbow, killed his, but I want more than that.
As far as the heads go, I have heard the silver Flame is amazing, 2 blades are where it is at in the 200grain range.
Thanks for all the help and if there is any more info i would appreciate it.

Jason
"The Big Ol' Muley"

recurvehunter · May 2, 2007

KE and poundage are not the best guidelines for ensuring maximum penetration. Do your self a favor and check out Dr. Ed Ashby study on arrow penetration. You can get this 5 part study on the Tradgang website. Good luck.

Recurve

BIGOLMULEY · May 2, 2007

Thanks, I will check it out.

Jason "The Big Ol' Muley"

elkaddiction · May 7, 2007

I second the recommendation on silver flames. They are amazing. Bows have improved dramatically in recent years. 60lb Alleigances for example shoot as fast as high end 70lb bows of a few years ago. I believe with ample arrow weight, you could get by with one of these high tech wonders in a 70lb model. It would easily out pace the long bows that are still commonly used. From what I understand, you will want a very heavy arrow--the momentum created by these logs is what penetrates through hide and ribs. You might go surfing over on archery talk. This subject comes up quite often.

graze · May 10, 2007

Mathews also makes the Black Max 2, which I own and love. It is 80# shoots fast, and hits hard. I also recommend the silver flames

BIGOLMULEY · May 10, 2007

Been looking at the silver flames, expensive, but for the price of this hunt I will go with the best and they are. Looks like I have a few options. Most companies will build you limbs for their bows. I just have to decide I guess. It is 2 1/2 years away and I can hardly stand it.

Jason "The Big Ol' Muley"

elknut1 · May 11, 2007

http:www.elknut.com

Jason, have you seen this thread on a guy who's going on the same hunt as yourself? Check out his use of bow & findings with 2 different heads & arrows. He's pushing over 100# of KE, very impressive!
http://www.archerytalk.com/vb/showthread.php?t=490357

ElkNut1