This 3.048″ 10-shot group was a remarkable accomplishment, breaking one of the longest standing 1000-yard World Records. Bill Shehane commented: “This tops the NBRSA, IBS, and Original Williamsport Clubs’ all-time 10-shot Heavy Gun group records. Took a long time to do it and I for one know Joel did not back into it — he has worked harder than most the last 10 years to break this record. And just like John Voneida of the Original Williamsport Club who held this most prestigious record for so long, Joel is a super nice guy and a great competitor.”

Pendergraft’s fellow 1K competitors were quick to praise his accomplishment. Dave Tooley observed: “I still remember the day I suggested flat-based bullets to Joel and the laugh I got. Well he was laughing today. Couldn’t have happened to a nicer guy. Glad I was there to see it.” Posting on Benchrest Central, “4Mesh” wrote: “Couldn’t happen to a nicer guy! That gun showed some serious promise last year at the World Open and anything that cranks off targets like the one you shot there, has what it takes.” Jim Hardy added: “The new record is great but no better than the fine man who shot it. Everyone who knows Joel will say the same thing — he is one of the finest men you will ever meet. He lives the life, and walks the walk and has paid his dues in the 1000-yard BR game to get the record.”

Pendergraft was modest after his notable achievement: “Some of the words spoken are too kind. What makes this so very special is to be able to celebrate the accomplishment with all of my shooting friends[.] A good friend once said that records are shot when preparation and opportunity meet. I feel blessed to have personally had the opportunity. The preparation we can individually work on and achieve but the opportunity only comes to a few. Those of you that compete in long range competition will know what I mean.”

This is mike first chance to shoot his new gun at 800 yards and so for looks like it is going to perform well

Here are some free targets to download that can be printed of your computer, 63 targets in all
You will need WinRAR to open it which you can download here………….
Targets

Here are some Sniper Data cards that most people try to charge you for that I think should be free so help your self.
Data Cards

Sgt G. Roberts

For over three hundred years man has endeavored to find his target with the first shot from his rifle, whether it be man or beast, in conflict or at peacetime. This skill in the art of marksmanship is one of the most pondered and talked about subjects in the Military & Law Enforcement communities today. There are facts, opinions and myths covering a wide range of elements in the gap between the point at which the firing pin strikes the cartridge primer, to when the projectile strikes its target.

There is no escaping the simple fact that this subject is scientifically founded. However, this mathematics and physics soaked area can be explained and broken down into understandable segments that allow the Sniper, Marksman and Precision Shooter to dramatically increase the probability of achieving the ‘First Shot Hit’ whether it be from 200 metres or 2,000 metres.

This paper examines the effect that temperature has on bullet placement from a rifle. More to the point, it examines the effect variations in barrel temperature has on the rifle itself, not the ambient air temperature/air density relationship, and not the ambient temperature/powder burning rate relationship, but purely the effect that barrel temperature may have on rifle-zero.

1. Introduction

The rifle used was an expensive, high-grade sniper rifle utilizing a match grade barrel and an inert pillar bedded or ‘bedding blocked’ stock. The trigger has near zero Lock Time and the telescopic sight is arguably the best that money can buy. The ammunition was either precision hand-loaded or marked match grade by a reputable company and line. The ammunition has been chronographed at specific velocities over a wide temperature range. The rifle was zeroed from the 100yd mound at the local rifle range and consistently prints tight groups. The average ambient temperature was 30°C (86°F).

At the rifle range three weeks later, when the same rifle/scope/ammo configuration was used at the same distance, using exactly the same shooting position, the first round struck the target low by about 36mm (1.42 inches). The second round printed roughly in the same place and the third a little higher. The barrel had not been cleaned between shots.

When this happens, it can be very easily written off by the shooter as the result of one or more causal factors, such as, the sights must have been knocked, it must have been a bad shot or my shooting position must have been off.

However, what if the scope wasn’t knocked, and it was a technically fine shot and the shooting position was exactly the same. After several years of this type of erratic shot placement, one would have to start questioning the weapon and ammunition rather than the shooter.

In this day and age of increasing technology, many urban myths are now able to be confirmed as either having significant underlying truth, or simply debunked as random opinion. People are now starting to ask questions such as, ‘I hear you telling us that your first shot from a cold, clean barrel prints low on the target, but what have you done to demonstrate that this is really the case?’

The most common answer is ‘Every time I come out to the range, the first shot I fire is at 100 yards from a clean/cold barrel and it shoots somewhere here. The second shot goes closer to the bull, and the rest of them go straight through the bull from then on’. Does this sound familiar? This person probably hasn’t recorded, to the millimeter, every cold shot for the previous 50 shots, recorded the ambient temperature each and every time that shot was made, nor chronographed the same batch of ammunition at various temperatures to be able to interpolate a powder burning rate.

2. Temperature and Trajectory

A change in temperature can affect the trajectory or ‘flight path’ of the bullet in two well-known ways:

So long as altitude, barometric pressure and humidity remain constant, an increase in air temperature will cause a flatter trajectory due to a lower air density (less collisions with ‘air particles’ per unit length of flight path).

The same increase in temperature also causes the nitro cellulose based powder inside the cartridge to burn at a higher rate, producing approximately four times the Point of Impact (POI) shift than just air temperature alone.

Just how much does an increase in temperature affect the powder burning-rate? Some powders are more susceptible to temperature effects than others and will burn faster than others. Some powders will experience a burning-rate

increase of 3.5 feet per second (fps) for every 1°C (1.8°F) increase. Others will be more resistant to heat and may only have an increase of 1.5 fps/1°C.

The .308 Win. Federal Premium cartridge with a 175 grain (gn) Sierra Matchking (Gold Medal Match) fired from a Blaser R93 Tactical 2 Sniper Rifle will show a muzzle velocity increase of approximately 2.5 fps for every 1°C

increase in cartridge temperature. If there is a 10°C (18°F) temperature increase, this will equate to a muzzle velocity increase of 25 fps. This increase in velocity will change the POI at 100 yds by approx 3 – 4mm (1/6 inch), not counting the lower air density.

Notwithstanding these observations, there are also other factors that cause a much greater change in the POI at this range with changes in ambient temperature.

3. Factors

Two of these possible factors were eliminated from the equation by means of field trials involving three different rifles (chambered in .308 Win.) held in May 2007 at the WA Police Forensic Ballistics Section, Midland Western Australia.

The first factor to be addressed was the belief in some quarters that ambient temperature variations caused changes in the internal diameter of the bore of the weapon and therefore caused changes in in-bore friction, back-pressure and burning-rate, all of which impact upon muzzle velocity.

The second factor concerned possible velocity changes between a clean bore and a fouled bore.

An Accuracy International AWP, Blaser R93 Tactical 2 and a Remington 700, all chambered in .308 Win. were subjected to a series of tests.

4. Measuring Equipment

Equipment used in these trials for determination of muzzle velocity as well as the temperature of air, weapons and ammunition were as follows:

4.1 Kestrel 4000

The US made Nielsen-Kellerman Kestral 4000 weather station (S/N 499206) was used for measuring the ambient air temperature and also the temperature of the environment that the test items were placed in.

4.2 LiMiT T90 Infrared Thermometer

The Scandinavian made LiMiT T90 infrared thermometer (S/N 7058160) was also used for measuring the weapon systems and ammunition. This device was used in a

manner whereby several readings were taken from a weapon system to avoid incorrect readings from shiny surfaces.

The Kestral 4000 and the LiMiT T90 can be seen in Fig. 1 below. The Kestral has an accuracy of +/- 1°C and the T90 has an accuracy of +/- 2°C.

4.3 Oehler 35P Chronograph

The Oehler 35P was used in a 50m indoor test tunnel and was placed 8m in front of the muzzle of each weapon when tested. Muzzle velocities were calculated to the muzzle using Sierra Factory Ballistic Coefficients and JBM Small Arms Calculation tables from the web. (http://www.eskimo.com/~jbm/ballistics/traj/traj.html).

The Oehler 35P can be seen in Fig. 2 below.

5. Hot/Cold Test

All three test rifles were heated in a calibrated Forensic oven for 45 minutes to reach a temperature of 50°C (122°F). Three rounds of the same ammunition type were

fired through each weapon and their velocities recorded by the Oehler 35P Chronograph.

This test was then repeated with all three weapons at room

temperature (21°C/70°F) and again at -20°C/-4°F. The lower temperatures were achieved by using ‘dry ice’ and these temperatures ranged +/- 5°C.

All ammunition used in this range of tests was kept at room temperature, which ranged from 19 – 21°C. The ammunition was fired within a 3 second period after being chambered to avoid heat transfer between rifle and powder charge.

The results showed virtually no change in muzzle velocity with the same room temperature conditioned ammunition fired through these weapons, at three very different temperatures. The velocity changes were +/- 6 fps, sometimes in the opposite direction. This change could only be absorbed by the error allowed in the Oehler 35P Chronograph and the variance within the same batch of ammunition.

6. Clean Bore/Fouled Bore

Due to time constraints, only the Remington 700 in .308 Win. was used in this test. This rifle had been fitted with a custom Stainless Steel Heavy profile Diamond Lapped barrel from a reputable Australia company.

This rifle was first cleaned thoroughly using Hoppes Number 9 Solvent before the test. Ten rounds were then fired through the weapon in order to foul the barrel.

Ten more rounds were then fired through the Oehler Chronograph and logged. This rifle was then cleaned for approximately 25 minutes in order to remove all powder and copper residues from the throat, grooves and lands.

A further five rounds from the same batch of ammunition were then fired through this weapon at the same temperature, utilizing a bore scrub and two solvent patches between each shot.

The results show a difference of 6 fps on average. This would equate to a 1mm change in POI at most at 100 yds.

The results from these two tests indicate that there is no appreciable change in muzzle velocity when the weapon has either been cleaned, or subjected to a massive change in temperature.

From this we can now deduce that a change in weapon temperature itself does not affect the velocity of a projectile enough to warrant a significant change in the POI at 100yds. Neither does the clean barrel versus a fouled barrel.

Figure 3 Results recorded from the Oehler 35P Chronograph at a distance of 8m from the weapon muzzle.

7. Final Test

7.1 Temperature Conditioning

On May 17, 2007 in Perth Western Australia a series of tests were done in order to find out the reason for unexpected changes in the POI shift from zero with temperature changes.

To facilitate this test on a day measuring 18°C (64°F), a mobile freezer truck was hired. On this particular day, all test ammunition was held at ambient air temperature (17 ­19°C). The same Kestral 4000 weather station as mentioned above was used for measuring the air temperature, as was the same LiMiT T90 Infrared Thermometer for weapon temperature. A motor vehicle with the heater set on the ‘recycle’ mode was used to heat weapons to 45°C (113°F).

All weapons, when either heated or cooled, remained in the controlled environment for 30 – 40- minutes to ensure thermal equilibrium.

The three weapons used in this test were the Accuracy International AWP and AWF Series in .308 Win. and the Blaser R93 Tactical 2 Rifle in .338 Lapua Magnum (LM).

All three rifles were fired at -5°C, 7°C, 21°C and 45°C respectively.

Each time the rifles were removed from the vehicle’s freezer, one round was fired from a steady rest (no bipod) within 3 seconds of the round being chambered. This was to avoid heat transfer issues between the chamber and the propellant charge.

7.2 Accuracy International AWF Sniper Rifle 7.3 Accuracy International AWP Sniper Rifle Manufactured: 2003 Manufactured: 1997

This illustrated a significant change in the POI at 100 yards using ammunition of the same batch at the same temperature. The circle used in the target above is 50mm (2 inches) in diameter. The vertical stringing effect is not caused by a change in velocity, but by another factor as shown.

Total POI change of 2.75 Minute of Angle (MOA) or

0.77 Milliradians (USMC) at 100 yds.

This illustrated that the AWP Sniper Rifle also has a significant change in the POI at 100 yards using ammunition of the same batch at the same temperature. The magnitude of the distance between the groups was slightly less, although still very significant. To accurately display this, Figure 7 was constructed as shown below.

Total POI change of 2.40 Minute of Angle (MOA) or

0.67 Milliradians (USMC) at 100 yds.

7.4 SIGARMS Blaser R93 Tactical 2 Sniper Rifle Manufactured: 2006

This also shows the .338 LM Blaser Tactical 2 also has a noticeable change in the POI at 100 yards when using ammunition of the same batch, at the same temperature. The distance between the groups was significantly less than that observed for the AI series rifles. However, the POI

zones from hot to cold weapon was completely reversed. Rounds fired from a hot weapon printed low whilst those fired from a cold weapon printed high.

0.45 Milliradians (USMC) at 100 yds.

Total POI change of 1.75 Minute of Angle (MOA) or

8. Discussion

8.1 Weapon Differences

Before any deductions can be drawn from this testing, some facts should be revealed about the differences between each weapon.

8.2 Accuracy International AWP

The AI AWP Sniper Rifle used in this test was manufactured in the South of England in 1997 and this particular weapon exhibited the following characteristics;

Stock: AI issued Polymer Barrel: 24” Stainless heavy profile Cut-Rifled Receiver: Standard AI alloy Scope: Nightforce NXS 3.5-15 x 50 Mounts: Leupold Mk4 Ultra

8.3 Accuracy International AWF

The AI AWF Sniper Rifle used in this test was manufactured in the South of England in 2003 and this particular weapon exhibited the following characteristics;

Stock: AI issued Polymer – Folding Butt Barrel: 26” Stainless medium profile Cut-Rifled Receiver: Standard AI alloy Scope: Nightforce NXS 3.5-15 x 50 Mounts: Leupold Mk4 Ultra

8.4 .338 LM Blaser Tactical 2

The Blaser R93 Tactical 2 Sniper Rifle used in this test was manufactured in the Germany in 2006 and this particular weapon exhibited the following characteristics;

Stock: Injection moulded Polyamide Barrel: 23½” Fluted Chrome Molybdenum

Hammer forged Receiver: Barrel extension acts as the receiver Scope: Schmidt & Bender PMII LP 4-16 x 42 Mounts: Custom XTEK Ltd one-piece bridge.

8.5 Telescopic Sights

To discount the theory that telescopic sights may have played a part in the shift in rifle zero, a further testing was conducted on this day.

Each of the test rifles was used to fire a three shot group at 100 yds when initially cooled to -5°C. These rifles were then fired to the side of the target using 10 rounds of ammunition as quick as the firer could load the weapon. This was done to heat the barrel and receiver up to in excess of 50°C.

A three shot group was then fired from each weapon. The resulting groups printed in their respective ‘hot weapon’ areas, however, the scopes on each of these weapons were still cold from the freezer truck.

9. Temperature Change Prediction

The resulting data collected from the three rifles tested, was mapped on a temperature scale. To complete these scales, POI shifts were interpolated between the recorded temperatures according to the trends of each weapon.

Zero change for the AI series of rifles was not constant between the hottest and coldest recorded temperatures. In fact, between 26°C and 45°C, the POI change was approximately ¼ MOA for every 6°C (11°F) increment. Once temperatures dropped below 26°C, the POI dropped

off quicker. Below the 15 – 20°C mark, there was a ¼ MOA shift for every 3°C change.

However, zero change for the .338LM Blaser Tactical 2 rifle appeared to be constant. Although the other way around, the interpolated data showed a 1/3 MOA shift (ca. 10mm) for every 10°C (18°F) temperature changes. This equated to 1cm click for every 10°C.

Temperature/Rifle Zero prediction charts were drawn up for threes three weapon systems based on the observed data.

Blaser Tactical 2 with S&B Scope (1cm/Click)

10. Confirmation

On February 29, 2008, nine further rifles were tested for temperature zero variation at the Holsworthy 300m classification range, Sydney Australia, using the same methodology outline above.

The rifles consisted of two Accuracy International AWP models, six Blaser Tactical 2 models and 1 custom Remington action with a fluted stainless barrel fitted to an

AI stock. All rifles were chambered in either .308 Win. or

7.62 NATO.

The AI rifles displayed exactly the same results as shown in the May 2007 testing and so did the Blaser Tactical 2 Rifles, even though they were chambered in .308 Win. rather than .338 LM.

The custom Remington Rifle displayed similar results to the AI’s (Hot high and Cold low), however not as much spread was recorded.

11. Conclusions

The primary aim of the tests conducted between 2007 and 2008 on the effects of temperature on rifle zero was not so much focused on why this effect happens, but whether an effect exists in the first place.

There could be any number of reasons as to why temperature variations on the rifle body would change the POI on the target, however, a further time consuming series of tests would be required for the actual mechanism(s) to be elucidated. Taking into account the small variation in trajectory with ammunition temperature variation (powder burning-rate), there is a larger and more noticeable POI variation that affects the precision shooter in today’s Military and Law Enforcement Sniper community. The fact is that temperature variations do cause POI variations, and that to some degree, these variations can be interpolated and mapped.

To the best of the author’s knowledge, there is currently no portable ballistics calculation system that takes this factor into account. At the moment, it is entirely up to the shooter to compensate for these variations. It is precisely because of this type of variation that the ‘cold barrel zero’ is practiced by some of the most elite elements.

For the seasonal shooter, or the special operations sniper operating in extreme environments, this can not only eliminate a section of doubt in himself or his weapon, but can also improve his chances of achieving that all important ‘First Shot Hit’.

Acknowledgments

Would like to thank Sgt G. Roberts Western Australia Police TRG Sniper Cell Maylands WA 6051(Author), Senior Constable Clive Roberts of the Western Australia Police Forensic Ballistics Section, members of the Western Australia Police Tactical Response Group Sniper Cell and finally Dr Alexander Krstic MD, Spectre Ballistic Solutions Pty Ltd, Adelaide, South Australia.

 
When getting involved in long range shooting, rifle selection can be difficult. There are so many different manufactures, cartridges, and configurations available. Many would like a custom built rifle, but wonder if it’s worth the extra time and cost. The answer depends mostly on your priorities, and needs. There are advantages for each. Here’s a quick overview.

Factory Rifles

Factory rifles can be anything from the awesome Sako TRG to the cheap Savage Stevens. Factory rifles can be purchased in many different cartridges and calibers. The accuracy ranges from excellent to unacceptable (for long range). If you have the ability to do a little research, you can avoid any that have a high probability of poor accuracy. You can also find some where good accuracy is the rule rather than the exception. Factory rifles come ready to fire. You can get them from a local shop in minuets or have one shipped in days. You’ll have little down time especially if you have optics ready to go. There are custom rifles that will take over a year to get once you order!

A reasonably priced factory rifle can have good accuracy even for long range. I’ve owned a factory rifle that shot with accuracy above the level of many customs. This is the exception and not the rule, but it’s a joy to find and shoot such a rifle. Some factory rifles come with accuracy guarantees, but most do not. If you purchase a rifle that shoots poorly there are modifications (at relatively little cost) that you can make to increase accuracy. It is possible to get one that cannot be made to shoot with acceptable accuracy. The worst case scenario, would have you ordering a new barrel and action work from your gun smith. This extreme would be very rare, and one should not be worried. I’ve heard of plenty who get the factory to fix rifles that shot poorly even when no guarantee of accuracy was made.

There are many options available for factory rifles. They will often have different magazine configurations (or lack thereof). Different barrel contours and lengths… heavy barrels for varmint and tactical models, helping dissipate heat and maintain accuracy for extended strings of shooting. Light barrels are most popular for hunting models, keeping weight to a minimum. They can be made from different materials including chromoly, stainless, even titanium. Some will have synthetic stocks, some wood. Even factory rifles designed for accuracy will often have aluminum pillars or bedding blocks. Some will have stocks that are adjustable, but most will not. The choices you will have to make for selecting a factory rifle are generally very straight forward.

Factory rifles are generally less expensive than customs. Good shooting rifles will sell for as little as $400. The used market can be great way to save even more. Make sure you know what a rifle goes for new. Just because it’s at a pawn shop doesn’t mean it’s a good deal. If you order a rifle off the internet keep in mind you’ll have to pay a local FFL for transfer. This usually runs about $40 in my area. A budget minded shooter will often purchase a factory rifle and slowly make modifications over time. Doing this can be enjoyable especially if you see better accuracy as a result of your own work. When a barrel is shot out on a factory rifle, a custom can be built from it.

Custom Rifles

Custom rifles can be had in every configuration imaginable. Any cartridge can be used from a standard 308 to a custom wild cat. You can build a single shot or repeater. Left hand, Right hand, left port, right port. It can be built from a factory action you are familiar with, or a custom action of extremely close tolerances. It can take a great deal of time and research to decide what suits you.

The accuracy of custom rifles is generally much better than factory. Accuracy guarantees are not uncommon. Not all custom rifles are created equally. If you’re going to spend the money, make sure you know what you’re getting. Find out what experiences others are having with customs from the same smith or company. Amazingly there are custom rifle makers who consider MOA accuracy to be excellent.

Custom rifles will require some decision making not necessary with factory rifles. Perhaps you will be selecting each component individually and paying a smith you know is good to assemble a rifle you’ve designed. If you allow your smith to decide what’s best, make sure you know what you’re getting. If you have any concerns let them know before your rifle is built. If you have questions….ask, this is part of what you’re paying for. With the advise of your smith, it’s probably best that you make most of the decisions. You’ll have to decide what cartridge, action, barrel, stock, trigger, etc. It’s best to keep in mind the purposes of this rifle.

When you decide what cartridge and caliber best suit your purposes it would also be good to decide what bullets you would be using. Find out what twist rate is required to stabilize the bullets you plan to use and order your barrel accordingly. If your rifle will be a repeater make sure the reamer is throated so you can seat the bullets into the lands without exceeding the  mag length. By the same token if you have room in the mag, a reamer that allows you to seat the bullets near maximum mag length will give maximum capacity for powder. This can net a little more muzzle velocity which is generally a good thing!

Length of barrel is another consideration. For large magnums shooting heavy bullets long barrels will allow best velocities with slow burning powders. Some cartridges suffer little loss of velocity when used with short barrels, particularly those using relatively fast burning powders. Of course, if you will be dragging this rifle through the hills a long barrel may be out of the question. How about your trigger? Even a good rifle’s accuracy can be spoiled by a poor trigger. The trigger on a custom rifle should be tuned for a crisp brake and minimal over-travel. The weight of the trigger is up to the shooter. If the cross-hairs routinely move when you pull the trigger it may be to heavy (or poor shooting technique).Only you can decide whats best for you… that’s why you’re building a custom in first place.

Make sure the components come together in a rifle that will be comfortable for you. You’ll likely be spending more money than most “off the shelf” rifles require and you want to get your money’s worth. If at all possible handle the stock you want to use before you purchase. If the stock does not fit you correctly (and cannot be adjusted), shooting your rifle could be frustrating. Don’t leave anything out. With careful research and consideration you can build a custom rifle that will meet your needs and expectations. Such a rifle is always a pleasure to shoot.

There are a lot of powder out there to choose from. But one thing you can use to help get you on the right track is the burning rate. There is a rule of thumb for most rifles that you can use to help you decide. Slower burning powders work good for bigger magnums and faster burning powders work good for some of your smaller rifles. Here is a list from Hodgdons on there powder burning rate from fastest to slowest.

1 NORMA R1
2 Winchester WAALite
3 Vihtavouri N310
4 Alliant e3
5 Hodgdon TITEWAD
6 Alliant Red Dot
7 Hodgdon CLAYS
8 IMR, Co Hi-Skor 700-X
9 Alliant Bullseye
10 Hodgdon TITEGROUP
11 Alliant American Select
12 Accurate Arms Solo 1000
13 Alliant Green Dot
14 IMR, Co Trial Boss
15 Winchester Super Handicap
16 Hodgdon INTERNATIONAL
17 IMR, Co PB
18 Vihtavouri N320
19 Winchester WST
20 Accurate Arms No. 2
21 IMR, Co SR 7625
22 Hodgdon HP-38
23 Winchester 231
24 Alliant 20/28
25 Alliant Unique
26 Hodgdon UNIVERSAL
27 Alliant Power Pistol
28 Vihtavouri N330
29 Alliant Herco
30 Winchester WSF
31 Vihtavouri N340
32 IMR, Co Hi-Skor 800-X
33 IMR, Co SR4756
34 Accurate Arms No. 5
35 Hodgdon HS-6
36 Vihtavouri 3N37
37 Vihtavouri N350
38 Hodgdon HS-7
39 Vihtavouri 3N38
40 Alliant Blue Dot
41 Accurate Arms No. 7
42 Hodgdon LONGSHOT
43 Alliant 410
44 Alliant 2400
45 Accurate Arms No. 9
46 NORMA R123
47 Vihtavouri N110
48 Hodgdon LIL’ GUN
49 Hodgdon H110
50 Winchester 296
51 IMR, Co IMR 4227
52 Hodgdon H4227
53 IMR, Co SR4759
54 Accurate Arms 1680
55 NORMA 200
56 Alliant Reloder 7
57 IMR, Co IMR4198
58 Hodgdon H4198
59 Vihtavouri N120
60 Hodgdon H322
61 Accurate Arms 2015BR
62 Vihtavouri N130
63 IMR, Co IMR3
64 Vihtavouri N133
65 Hodgdon BENCHMARK
66 Hodgdon H335
67 Accurate Arms 2230
68 Accurate Arms 2460
69 Hodgdon H4895
70 Vihtavouri N530
71 IMR, Co IMR4895
72 Vihtavouri N135
73 Alliant Reloder 12
74 IMR, Co IMR4320
75 Accurate Arms 2495BR
76 IMR, Co IMR4064
77 NORMA 202
78 Accurate Arms 2520
79 Alliant Reloder 15
80 Vihtavouri N140
81 Hodgdon VARGET
82 Winchester 748
83 Hodgdon BL-C(2)
84 Hodgdon H380
85 IMR, Co IMR4007SSC
86 Vihtavouri N540
87 Winchester 760
88 Hodgdon H414
89 Vihtavouri N150
90 Accurate Arms 2700
91 IMR, Co IMR4350
92 Hodgdon H4350
93 Accurate Arms 4350
94 NORMA 204
95 Hodgdon HYBRID 100V
96 Vihtavouri N550
97 Alliant Reloder 19
98 IMR, Co IMR4831
99 Accurate Arms 3100
100 Vihtavouri N160
101 Hodgdon H4831 & H4831SC
102 Winchester Supreme 780
103 NORMA MRP
104 Alliant Reloder 22
105 Vihtavouri N560
106 Vihtavouri N165
107 IMR, Co IMR7828
108 Vihtavouri N17
109 Hodgdon H1000
110 Hodgdon RETUMBO
111 Vihtavouri N570
112 Accurate Arms 8700
113 Hodgdon H87
114 Vihtavouri 24N41
115 Hodgdon H50BMG
116 Hodgdon US869
117 Vihtavouri 20N29

Rumors have been flying this fall about a new world record elk shot down in Utah, and now, the world’s record keeper, the Boone and Crockett Club, has confirmed it.

On September 30, Denny Austad of Ammon, Idaho, downed the monster bull while hunting on public land in the Fishlake National Forest in south-central Utah.

According to a press release from the Club, Austad hunted for 13 days before getting a shot at the trophy, which has been dubbed the “spider bull” for its unique antler configuration.

A special judges panel convened by the Club determined a final score of 478-5/8 B&C non-typical points, an incredible 93-plus inches above the minimum score of 385 for non-typical American elk, and more than 13 inches larger than the previous world record.

It is the only elk on record with a gross score approaching the 500-inch mark, at 499-3/8. Official data dates back to 1830.

The giant bull has 9 points on the left antler and 14 points on the right. The larger antler has a base circumference topping 9 inches.

The Boone and Crockett scoring system, long used to measure the success of wildlife conservation and management programs across North America, rewards antler size and symmetry, but also recognizes nature’s imperfections with non-typical categories for most antlered game. The bull’s final score of 478-5/8 inches includes an amazing 140 inches of abnormal points.

“Along with measurements that honor the quality of the animal, Boone and Crockett Club records also honor fair-chase hunting,” said Eldon Buckner, chairman of the Club’s Records of North American Big Game committee, in the release. “Through our entry process, signed affidavits and follow-up interviews with the hunter, his guides, and state and federal officials, we were satisfied that this bull was indeed a wild, free-ranging trophy and that the tenets of fair chase were used in the harvest.”

The previous world record for non-typical American elk was 465-2/8 B&C points. That bull was found dead, frozen in Upper Arrow Lake, B.C., in 1994, and was entered into Boone and Crockett Club records by the provincial Ministry of Environment on behalf of the citizens of British Columbia.

For hunter-taken non-typical American elk, the previous top bull scored 450-6/8 B&C points, taken in 1998 in Apache County, Ariz., by Alan Hamberlin.

Founded by Theodore Roosevelt in 1887, the Missoula-based Boone and Crockett Club promotes guardianship and visionary management of big game and associated wildlife in North America. The Club maintains the highest standards of fair-chase sportsmanship and habitat stewardship, and is the universally recognized keeper of the records of native North American big game.