Designed by Hunters, for Hunters
If the hunter wants an exciting and challenging hunt to test his skills, then gemsbok hunting is a good safari option. Known for their incredible senses and alert behavior, this African plains game species is a testing African hunt, but well worth the reward of an iconic game hunting trophy! The gemsbok (Oryx gazella) is the largest antelope of the genus Oryx and is endemic to Zimbabwe, South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. Also known as the gemsbuck or South African oryx, this iconic African antelope is renowned for both its beauty and toughness. Gemsbok hunts in Zimbabwe occur on private ranches in the region and hunting safaris targeting gemsbok are best undertaken in the early mornings. Tipping the scale at 500 pounds for males and 420 for females, the first thing that strikes you about this antelope is its beautiful black, spear-like horns. Reaching up to 48 inches in females and 38 inches in males, these horns are not only striking accessories but are used to protect the antelope from predators or engage in fights with other gemsbok over territories. The gemsbok has a muscular, horse-like neck with a gray-brown coat and long, dark tail. There is a long black stripe running from the chin, through the neck and shoulder, along the flank of the antelope, and ending on the back of the leg, just above the white “socks” of the antelope. Each leg has a black patch on the front. The gemsbok has adapted well to arid regions and is more active in the early mornings or late afternoons when it is cooler, foraging for moisture-rich roots and plants.
Shot Placement on an Gemsbok Hunt
Gemsbok hunting tests the skills of the hunter, especially his stalking skills, as gemsbok are renowned for their exceptional senses, including sight, smell, and hearing. They are alert and wary, with herd members alerting each other to dangers or perceived threats. This makes stalking the antelope and approaching the herd even more challenging on this African hunt. Shot placement for this majestic antelope must be on target, not only to ensure a quick and humane death for the animal but also because wounded gemsboks are known to be extremely aggressive and dangerous. Combine that with a razor-sharp set of long horns, and you see the problem. Keeping in mind this picturesque game hunting trophy and its striking horns, stay away from high-risk neck and headshots. Instead, target the animal from the broadside, aiming for the vital organs of the heart and lungs. A well-placed shot, a third of the way up the front shoulder will target and penetrate the heart, resulting in a quick, humane death. Should the shot be a near miss, the lungs will still be hit, also ensuring a humane death. Remember to ignore the gemsbok’s hump when calculating the shot placement.
What Caliber Rifle is Used for Hunting Gemsbok?
As tough, vigilant, and hardy antelopes, a well-placed bullet from a .270 shooting 150-grain will suffice in bringing down the animal. Many hunters when hunting gemsbok prefer to use a larger caliber rifle, and any .30 caliber, such as a .308 or 30.06, loaded with 165-grain to 180-grain will work well. For longer shots, consider a 300-win mag. For hunters wanting a larger caliber when gemsbok hunting in Zimbabwe, a popular option is a .375 loaded with a 300-grain solid bullet.
Search from our range of Hunts across various popular destinations in Africa.
Book Your Hunt
