Frequently Asked Questions

Firearms

• Should I take a rangefinder on an African Hunting safari?

  Yes, it is a good idea to take a rangefinder with a fresh set of batteries along on your African Hunting Safari. Although some PH’s will have a rangefinder, not all do and knowing the exact range on an expensive trophy gives confidence when taking long shots at game.

• Should I practice shooting with shooting sticks before going on an African hunting safari?

  Yes, you should practice shooting off of shooting sticks both in a standing and sitting position if possible.  Many shots will occur on the sticks when stalking plains game and familiarity with this method of shooting will give you confidence when it is time to take that shot on a desired trophy animal. Most shooting sticks in Africa are of a tripod variety, so your practice should be from three-legged sticks if possible. 

• Should I take shooting sticks on my African Hunting Safari?

  Most outfitters professional hunters will have a set of shooting sticks that you will use on your hunting safari. If you have a set of take-down sticks that you are particularly fond of, there is no reason why you shouldn’t pack them in your gun case and take them along. 

• How far are the shots on an African Hunting Safari?

  The shots can vary from extremely close range up to 400 yards.  Dangerous game shots are normally 100 yards or less.  Plains game shots range from 50 yds—400 yards, depending on the density of cover and topography. 

• Is a .375 caliber enough gun for hunting elephant?

  A 375-caliber rifle is legal for hunting elephant in most African countries and thousands of elephants have fallen to this caliber of rifle.  That being said, a larger caliber rifle that can be comfortably shot is recommended and when an elephant is charging at short range, the largest calibers seem to pack the most stopping power. 

• What is the best rifle for hunting plains game in Africa? What is the best rifle for hunting plains game in Africa?

  The best rifle for hunting plains game in Africa is a rifle that you can shoot comfortably and accurately. The best all-around calibers are the 7mm, 30.06 and 300 Winchester Magnums. 

• What rifle should I use for hunting dangerous game in Africa?

  By law, a 375-caliber rifle is the minimum allowed for hunting dangerous game in most of Africa. For thick-skinned animals like Cape buffalo, hippo and rhino, a larger caliber rifle is recommended with a 416 being a good choice that most people can shoot comfortably.  For elephant, a 458 Lott up to a 500-caliber rifle is a good choice. 

• What rifle should I use for hunting plains game in Africa?

  For most African plains game hunting safaris, a rifle in the range of a 7 mm. 30.06 or a caliber such as the 300 Win Mag will suffice.  If shooting bigger game such as an eland, a 300-caliber rifle should be the minimum and stepping up to a .375 is not unreasonable.  Calibers such as the 270 should be reserved for shooting smaller plans game animals and bringing a rifle in the caliber range mentioned above is prudent practice. 

• Where can I get a SAPS 520 for taking my rifle to South Africa?

  You can download the SAPS Form 520 at the following link:  SAPS Form 520 Download Link 

• What is a CBC Form 4457 and where can I get one?

  CBC Form 4457 is a Certificate of Registration for Personal Effects Taken Abroad.  It is required by most African countries to be able to import your firearm on an African Hunting Safari.  It is also needed to bring your firearm back into the US with you.  You can download this form at the following link:  Form 4457 Download Link.  

  You will need to take this form to a US Customs and Border Patrol office and get the form signed by an officer.  Be sure the Manufacturer, caliber and serial number are listed on the form and are correct. 

• Should I use a firearms pre-permitting service when taking my firearm to South Africa?

  You will still need to obtain a CBC Form 4457 and fill out a SAPS Form 520, but by using a firearms pre-permitting service your inspection process will go much quicker and smoother at the airport and you will likely be walked to the head of the line by the pre-permitting company. Many hunters feel that this service is worth it, although you can decide to do it yourself if you want to save a little money and are patient. 

• What is required to take my rifle to South Africa on a hunting safari?

  To temporarily import your personal firearm(s) into South Africa you will need some type of paperwork proving that you own the firearm.  If you are a US citizen, it will be a CBC Form 4457.  In addition to that form, you will need to fill out a SAPS Form 520, which is an application to the South Africa Police Force for a temporary firearm permit to be able to bring your firearm into the country. 

• Should I rent a rifle when hunting in Africa?

  Whether you should rent a rifle or not when going on an African Hunting Safari depends on the length of time you will be hunting, the country you will be hunting in, the quality of the outfitter’s rental rifles and how attached you are to your own rifles. If you do not have the correct caliber for dangerous game, then by all means you should use the outfitter’s rifle. 

  Some countries have expensive import fees or onerous paperwork requirements.  Many hunters hunting in or transiting through South Africa are choosing to use the outfitter’s rifles and avoid the paperwork hassles. 

  Other countries such as Namibia, make it relatively easy to bring your own firearms.  In the end it boils down to how attached you are to your personal firearms.