Dangerous Game Sights

by
posted on April 6, 2010
20104612033-front-sight-m.jpg

Danger is a proximate condition. An enraged Mike Tyson in the ring with you is dangerous, but Mike Tyson in another state is as harmless as a kitten. He can’t reach you. By the same token, a wounded Cape buffalo at 10 yards is dangerous, but that same buffalo at 200 yards is merely a potential threat, not an immediate danger. Something that can’t hit you, can’t hurt you.

Consequently, when discussing dangerous game sights for rifles, distance is an important factor. A sight that’s quick to pick up, aligns itself naturally and let’s you shoot with a precise sight picture is what you'll need.

Hands down, the best dangerous game sight is a peep sight. If I were to design the ultimate DGS, it would be a fixed ghost ring rear sight (a large aperture is referred to as a ghost ring) and a fiber optic red front sight.

A close second is a classic English express sight with a V-notch rear and a gold bead front. While you still must align a sight picture with an express sight, if your rifle fits you, the gold bead falls into the V-notch naturally as you shoulder the rifle.

For an optical sight, the best one I’ve ever used is a Trijicon AccuPoint in a low-power variable (1-4x). The reticle is a large German post topped with a glowing red triangle that’s illuminated either by a fiber optic on top of the scope or via tritium in low light. I’ve used the AccuPoint on Cape buffalo and dwarf forest buffalo—it was superb.

The only drawback to an optical DGS is that the eye relief can be a problem, although it’s ample enough for a .458 Win. Mag., which I was using on both buffalo. This is why I’m very hesitant to recommend any other optic for a DGS, with one exception.

Leupold’s 1.5-5x variable has generous eye relief and will not give you a red crescent in your forehead. However, the duplex recticle is not optimum for close-range shooting, although it certainly is the most precise for longer shots.

However, long shots should be avoided with dangerous game. That’s why I use iron sights on everything except the cats. After all, the essence of hunting dangerous game is, as the name implies, danger. Out there at binocular distances, none of Africa’s game is dangerous. Stalk close and use your sights the way they were intended.

Latest

Hunter In Snow
Hunter In Snow

Know How: Walking-Up Winter Rabbits

Bryce Towsley offers his readers some tips and tricks on wintertime rabbit hunting.

Member's Hunt: "The Big Rifle," Winchester Model 1895

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Ken Eason of Bethany, Okla.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors’ Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest

Blocker Outdoors has introduced its Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest, to help hunters concisely and comfortably manage essential hunting tools.

Recipe: Hunter's Onion Soup

Follow along as Brad Fenson explains the ancient origins and his specific take on this hearty dish.

Henry Repeating Arms CEO Honors IHEA’s NY State Instructor of the Year

Henry Repeating Arms Founder and CEO Anthony Imperato recently honored Ralf Hartmann as the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) New York State Instructor of the Year, recognizing his contributions to hunter education and firearm safety.

Rebates Galore for Turkey Hunters

Remington Ammunition recently announced its Beards, Spurs, and Savings rebate, which offers consumers the chance to buy Remington Turkey shotshell ammunition and get up to $100 back. The promotion runs through May 31, 2025.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.