Big game hunters refer to the most dangerous and most difficult animals to hunt as “the big five.” These animals include the rhino, lion, leopard, African elephant, and cape buffalo. Each of the big five are more than capable of wounding or killing even the most experienced big game hunters.

Rhino

Weighing in at anywhere from one to four tons and capable of running at a top speed of 30 miles per hour, you do not want to be caught in a rhino’s path when it charges. Rhinos, however, are critically endangered and, according to safariBwana.com, only a few rhinos are allowed to be hunted each year, so prices are extremely high.

Lion

Lions are described as fearless and intelligent. They are also possess great speed and agility. These traits make the “King of the Beasts” a very dangerous animal to hunt. Like rhinos, the rights to hunt a lion will cost you a hefty sum as well.

Leopard

The fact that leopards are nocturnal makes them extremely difficult to hunt. It is also illegal to hunt them at night with the use of artificial lights. Like lions, leopards are intelligent, fast, and agile. They have also been known to stalk humans as prey. Because they are endangered as well, leopard hunting licenses are the most difficult to get.

African Elephant

Compared to Indian or Chinese elephants, African elephants are larger and more temperamental. They have been known to charge and go on killing rampages if provoked. Besides their obvious incredible size, elephants are very intelligent and can also run up to 15 miles per hour. This combination makes them one of the most dangerous animals to hunt.

Cape Buffalo

An angry Cape Buffalo will circle and stalk a human, waiting for the opportunity to tear their prey apart with their large, sharp horns. Cape Buffalo are not endangered, making them the most commonly hunted of the big five. They are also responsible for more hunter deaths than any of the big five and have rightly earned the nickname, “Black Death.

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It can be very useful to have a little bit of knowledge before you head out on a African Safari. Here are 5 essential tips to optimize your Safari experience.

1. Timing is Everything- The best times to go on a drive is either very early in the morning or late at night. The early morning or late night is a good time to drive because animals or more active due to the lower temperatures. Also, you will increase your chances of seeing nocturnal animals like lions when it is still dark outside.

It is also better to go during the dry season because there is less vegetation and animals are forced to congregate near areas where water is still readily available.

2. You Get What You See- A good pair of binoculars is absolutely essential to spotting wildlife on the plains. Some safari companies provide binoculars but there will probably be of worse quality than if you were to purchase your own set. You will also probably have to share your binoculars if you do not bring your own, which can be extremely frustrating.

3. Stock up on Film- You will also needs lots and lots of film. You should expect to run through at least two rolls of film each day on your safari. You should bring spare batteries as well because your camera will die at the worst possible time. Always remember Murphy’s law so you do not miss out on a photo of a lifetime. You should be able to charge your batteries in most rest stop areas. Electricity in Africa is 220 – 240V AC50HZ.

4. Bring Insect repellent, and Lots of it- Africa has a lot of bugs. You should leave as little skin exposed by where long-sleeved shirts and long pants and socks to cover your feet and ankles. You also do not want to be holding the light if you go out on a night-time safari.

5. An Experienced Safari Operator- This is by far the single most important aspect of your safari trip. An experienced Safari operator will have a host of medications on hand; from motion sickness meds and anti-diarrhea medicine to mosquito repellent and sunscreen. You might want to bring your own anyways, just in case.

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Cape Buffalo are some of the most sought after trophy animals in Africa. Safaris are a dangerous game but are truly and exhilarating experience that is to be relished. Here are 3 tips to keep in mind before you embark on an African Cape Buffalo Safari hunt.

                                               Ken Collins- Cape Buffalo

1. Choose Your Gun- A 375 or larger caliber is the minimum to take down Africa’s dangerous game, especially such a large beast like a Cape Buffalo. Buffalo can weigh close to a metric ton, so you need to make sure that you are packing a susbational amount of fire power. If you are comfortable, using a 400 caliber is the preferred weapon that will cleaning and effectively kill your target.

2. Hunting the Buffalo- The most traditional way to hunt a Cape Buffalo is the “walk and stalk” method. This is difficult when approaching large herds, for obvious reasons. Solitary bulls can also be very aggressive so it is important to keep you wits about you. There are also “bachelor herds” which can be equally difficult to kill.

3. Safety First- Remember that safety trumps all else when going on a hunt. If you take a poor shot then your professional hunter guide may need to back you up with a follo up shot. In the event that a shot is not fatal, it is not uncommon for a buffalo to charge at the shooter. In this case your guide must take action to protect you and the others around you.

Coppersmith – Dallas is on the Move!
Our DFW branch will be relocating to a larger facility effective August 27, 2012!

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Grapevine, Texas  76051
Tel:  817-421-8989
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We were featured on TNT Outdoor Explosion Tech Tip – How to ship your hunting trophies home safely with the proper documentation. Check out this great video!