More About Zimbabwe Lion Hunting

Shot Placement while Lion Hunting in Zimbabwe

Lion hunting in Zimbabwe is completed using the bait method. This involves hanging bait in a tree at a height just high enough for a lion to reach it. A scent trail is created before the bait is hung by a vehicle dragging the carcass across the bush. A hide is built, and the wait starts for the lion to start feeding, during which time the hunter will target this deadly member of the Big 5 and Dangerous 7. Lion hunting safaris are an exciting, adrenalin-filled hunting adventure aimed at experienced game hunting enthusiasts looking for a new challenge. Shot placement options for a lion hunting safari will differ according to the conditions, the distance between the hunter and the kill zones, and the angles.

Shot placement options when hunting lion in Zimbabwe include: The Broadside Shot When taking this shot, the hunter is looking to hit the lion hard straight into the heart resulting in a quick and humane kill. When the lion stands broadside, the heart will sit behind the lion’s front leg, just above the elbow joint. The broadside shot is one that the PH will suggest is taken, if appropriate. The Frontal Shot Your PH would recommend this shot, if appropriate and the angle is correct from your position in the blind. A perfectly placed bullet in this position will hit the heart and lungs and will be humane and deadly. Quartering away from the Hunter While lion hunting in Zimbabwe the animal may be facing away from you as it reaches for the bait and shot placement for this scenario would be where the root of the tail joins the body. This is not a shot the PH will suggest you take due to a small target and the associated risk. Quartering towards the Hunter When this apex predator is quartering towards a hunter, the lion will be facing him at a slight angle. The perfect shot will be aimed at the base of the lion’s neck where it meets the shoulder. The bullet will target the lion’s heart and lungs and will be deadly. The Fleeing Shot This shot placement is not recommended as a first shot. If the lion has been wounded due to a poorly placed first shot and is facing away from you, this shot severs the spine and will cripple the lion.

What Caliber Rifle is Used for Hunting Lion in Zimbabwe?

For those hunters interested in targeting this member of Africa’s Big 5 and Dangerous 7 with a bow, this is legal if undertaken on tribal or private land. A permit is required to enjoy bow hunting in Zimbabwe. The minimum requirement for dangerous game hunting is a .375. Popular options for a lion hunting safari include a .458 or a .458 Lott, while other hunters prefer a .416 Rigby or a double rifle like a 470NE or 500NE. Whether you decide to use a bow or rifle while hunting lion in Zimbabwe, your shot placement should be exceptional to stop this apex predator in its tracks and ensure a quick and humane death.