The Perfect Shot

Book excerpt: Africa boasts more varieties of game than any other continent. Many of these animals have different “kill zones,” so knowing where to place a killing shot (the most important criterion in hunting) can be bewildering, even to experienced African hunters. Kevin “Doctari” Robertson, a Zimbabwe licensed PH and veterinarian, has created the most comprehensive work ever undertaken to show the anatomical features for all classes of African game—from the big, dangerous species (elephant, buffalo, rhino, and hippo) to the large cats (lion and leopard) and from the largest antelopes (eland and bongo) to the smallest (duiker, grysbok, and klipspringer). Even Africa's more unusual species (giraffe, crocodile, zebra, and hyena) are covered in detail. Each animal is shown in at least one color field picture as well as a color "ghost view" that illustrates the shoulder bones, heart, lungs, brain, and spinal column. These views allow you to see precisely where to place your shot in relation to how the animal may be orientated. The popular species have multiple illustrations from different angles for easier understanding of the different shot-placement options. The invaluable natural history section on each animal contains trophy assessment hints as well as how to determine the sex of an animal. Other chapters include caliber and bullet selection, rifle selection, trophy handling, basic animal anatomy, and, most importantly, field tips on how to make that "perfect shot." This great reference work is a must-have for your next safari.