I have an increasing problem with wild boar on my farm in Kent. Can you recommend a cartridge for shooting them?
Would you like to appear on our site? We offer sponsored articles and advertising to put you in front of our readers. Find out moreShooting wild boar
STEVE BOWERS
You do not tell me what calibre rifle you use and also I must point out that your firearms certificate must be amended to cover use against wild boar.
However, a specialised Continental calibre such as a 9.3x74R with a 270-grain bullet travelling at 2,300fps and delivering 3,172ft/lb energy can be effective, though a .30-06 with a 200-grain bullet would also work well.
If you only want a dedicated boar gun, a 9.3x62mm is excellent, shooting a 285-grain bullet at 2,200fps and giving 3,063ft/lb energy, or even a .35 Whelen, a necked-up .30-06 case to .35 calibre, is one that makes a good red deer cartridge.
The minimum calibre you can use with a bolt-action rifle is something such as a .270 Win, using heavier bullets with a strong construction, such as Partitions.
A rifle in .308 or .30-06 can be excellent for these animals but as with any other game you must place the bullet in the right place for a humane shot.
If you are using a high seat rather than driving, you can take a better, well-aimed shot and even a 6.5x 55mm with a 156-grain bullet will do the job.
If you have a .308 then this can double as a deer rifle.
The five-year phase-out of lead shot has failed, but the Government’s response to the HSE report is overdue and the transition is complex
Top of the wish list for the ideal outerwear is quiet fabric; you don’t want your stalking coat to alert the deer to your presence, says Chris Dalton
Get the latest news delivered direct to your door
Discover the ultimate companion for field sports enthusiasts with Shooting Times & Country Magazine, the UK’s leading weekly publication that has been at the forefront of shooting culture since 1882. Subscribers gain access to expert tips, comprehensive gear reviews, seasonal advice, and a vibrant community of like-minded shooters.
With weekly issues featuring in-depth articles on gundog training, exclusive member offers, and £2 million public liability insurance, a Shooting Times & Country subscription is more than a magazine – it’s your essential guide to the rich traditions and thrilling world of field sports. Don’t just read about the countryside; immerse yourself in its most authoritative and engaging publication.