How to Deer Hunt With a 25-06

The Remington .25-06 is a quality rifle load for deer hunting. The cartridge provides ample power for shooting deer at several hundred yards and is especially useful for close range whitetail hunting. Hunters who utilize blinds and stands with 100 yards or less on their average shot find the .25-06 works well. Hunting deer with a .25-06 cartridge is similar to hunting deer with other cartridges, but range is limited when compared to the custom long-distance loads intended for shots over 500 yards.

Things You'll Need

  • Bullets
  • Scope
  • Rangefinder
  • Binoculars
  • Blind
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Instructions

    • 1

      Select a .25-06 round with a bullet weight of at least 100 grains. The 100 grain bullet is an effective round for deer at close range, but a cartridge with a 120 grain bullet is ideal for shots over 100 yards. Purchase at least 20 rounds in the same size for sighting in the rifle and hunting.

    • 2

      Take the rifle to a gun range and sight in the scope and rifle combination. Sighting in the rifle is necessary for accuracy, and increases the chances of a clean kill shot. Shoot three rounds at a 100 yard target and gather the results. Adjust the level of the scope up or down based on the initial results and shoot a second grouping. Continue making adjustments until you hit the intended target with consistent accuracy.

    • 3

      Carry a rangefinder on the hunt. Position a blind near a feeding area or stalk, and scan the area with binoculars to locate deer.

    • 4

      Use the rangefinder to determine the distance between you and the deer you are prepared to shoot. Continue gauging the distance while you creep within 100 yards of the deer. Stop and assume a comfortable shooting position.

    • 5

      Place the scope sights on the deer and align the sights immediately behind the front shoulder. This area contains the vital organs and leads to a quick kill. Raise the aim slightly for shots over 100 yards and lower slightly for shots under 100 yards.

    • 6

      Squeeze the trigger and kill the deer. Pull the bolt on the rifle to eject the spent cartridge and load a live cartridge. Approach the deer with the loaded weapon and poke it in the eye with the rifle barrel. This ensures the deer is dead and prevents the wounded deer from causing injury.