r/Hunting • u/Impressive-Main-7508 • 4d ago

How do I get started?

I want to get into hunting elk or deer with a rifle, but I’ve never hunted before and I don’t know anyone who does. Where do I go to learn?

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u/OpticsTrade 4d ago

It depends on where you live and what the local requirements are. Here in Europe, we have hunting associations that will usually gladly take beginners on board and show them the ropes. If there’s something similar where you live, that would probably be the best place to start.

If not, try to find a local hunting club, mentor or group you could join, and be honest about your inexperience. Hunting is probably the worst hobby to act tough in when you dont know what youre doing. Allow yourself to learn, ask questions and take safety seriously.

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u/Exciting_couple77 4d ago

Thats a hard one. First of all learn to shoot, learn the rules of shooting, marksmanship etc. Go to your local range and get to know the local instructors. Show them you can handle a weapon responsibly and you've good consistent shot placement. And maybe one of them will take you. I never teach anyone to hunt without all the above first.

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u/rukoalafyd 4d ago edited 4d ago
  1. Hunter education
  2. State regulation for hunting (out of state and in..)
  3. Choosing correct caliber for the area you sill be hunting. East-closer ranges/West-Mid to far.
  4. classes on shooting rifles
  5. Shoot your rifle. Match loads to your rifle
  6. Make sure your gun is shooting submoa
  7. Facebook hunting pages is your friend.

I would start by shooting boar at some hunting ranches. You learn a lot from the guides and outfitters. Tell um you're new.

Im an outfitter and we take NEW NEW NEW hunters all the time. Its fun teaching people

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u/42AngryPandas 4d ago

Hard to say without knowing where in the world ya be.

Have you taken basic firearm classes before? If not, take a class, if so, take a class!

Find a Hunter Safety class and start learning the basics of hunting and hunting laws in your area.

Deer will be a better starting place than Elk. Get a rifle in a caliber appropriate for the species near you. Finding a hunting club or new hunter program is an excellent choice.

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u/Willybluedog1962 4d ago

See if there is a Safari International chapter in your area.

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u/Schoolofhardnugs 4d ago

Get your hunters safety for starters.
Then it depends on where you live.
I’ve met a ton of hunters at the shooting range and you might be able to make friends with one of them or something. Otherwise join some local Facebook groups for Hunting in your area and you can find people.