So after a few weeks of no luck sheep hunting our elk draw season finally approaches. I'm wondering if anybody has by chance seen some clarification on the caliber restrictions for the on base hunt this year? I know it's a long shot but getting frustrated trying the "proper" route of seeking info. I know of several hunters trying to figure out what "All calibers .338 Lapua or higher are strictly prohibited" means and a google search just brings up the same question on other boards. So would this mean other .338 calibers like .338 federal and 338 WM are also not allowed? We have tried the phone contacts provided since last Friday with no response. Has anyone got through? Seen this addressed anywhere? Greatly appreciate any leads guys. Figured gunnutz would be the most likely place somebody may have asked this sort of question. If I hear back officially myself I will post but I'm getting doubtful. Good hunting everyone!
Alberta Suffield Base Caliber Restriction
- Thread starter TikkaWSM
- Start date
Thanks tokguy, I hadn't tried that yet but I did finally talk to a representative from another base (who was forwarded my info). It looks like it is probably okay to use the .338's with less energy than the .338 lapua (after much discussion/ the kind gentleman sorted through some kind of a caliber rating list for me which didn't seem to list other 338 caliber rifles at all). They reserved the right to call me back today if other information comes forward. It is apparently a new restriction for this year based on how far a bullet can go/ retain energy. I have a name to reference/ clearance for at least tomorrow at this point so will see what they say in the morni (unless I hear otherwise this afternoon). I'm really thankful for our military personnel and the effort going into this hunt so will make the best of it! I was there last year so prepared for some competition/ watching our surroundings for less responsible shooters. Hopefully have something good to report back. I figured a 338 Win Mag or 338 Federal were well known/ popular calibers but apparently not so much ha ha.
- Location
- WMU248 near Edmonton
oh good lord....
I have the big list (semi oficial, approved) 717 different caliber/cartridge, it has not been updated for about 5 years.
Range control is obviously doing something silly, this year.
their understandign of balistics and all the different cartridges available is woefully lacking.
If you find yourself getting told you cant use something because its not on their list send me a PM with all the particulars, I have contacts.
I have the big list (semi oficial, approved) 717 different caliber/cartridge, it has not been updated for about 5 years.
Range control is obviously doing something silly, this year.
their understandign of balistics and all the different cartridges available is woefully lacking.
If you find yourself getting told you cant use something because its not on their list send me a PM with all the particulars, I have contacts.
Glock4ever
CGN Ultra frequent flyer
- Location
- Edmonton, AB
SIRC is not the the "big dog" for civilians on the base range and training area. Their job is to monitor oil-gas workers operating within the RTA. The Base Suffield Range Control is the overseer of hunting access to the range. You need to hit the main RC building on the East side of the base before you can go into the RTA. Beyond the RTA briefing that everyone requires before you enter the RTA, they can also confirm what calibers are restricted/licensed within the RTA.
So, the only caliber they are worried about was 338 lapua, things went fine with the 338wm. The 225 gr TSX worked perfectly and we came home with our tags filled. Hearing lots of guys had bad experiences but we went to a remote part of the base and saw very few other people. Made a good stalk and filled our tags, the military guys were phenomenal as per usual. Did dispatch one cow that had been a flock shoot victim earlier in the week but didn't mind puting her out of her misery with the extra license. Thankful for the opportunity to put some lovely elk in the freezer.
Thanks for the clarification, friend. I've '0' desire to venture out on the base, despite the Elk present. I suppose I could accompany my GF or one of her boy's to assist getting a Elk out there ( treaty folk, I think that there is a Fish & Wildlife deal with Native's to help thin the numbers...but not sure. Other's may know more. ) as I've a purpose built recovery truck. But I've little love for being out there. Nasty place IMO
