Common hunting rifles in India include centerfire and manually operated rifles (bolt-action). The law for gun in India is very strict for operating firearms, including for the use of hunting rifles.
Rifles are typically classified depending on their barrel types. Some are fixed barrels with permanently attached barrels. There are rifles have interchangeable barrels so that you can swap the barrels to insert different calibers. Hunting rifles in India can also include quick-change barrels used in machine guns during continuous firing for quick barrel replacement. Then there are rifles with spare barrels used for managing big firearms.
Define a Rifle
A rifle contains a barrel with a bended core to form spiral grooves inside the barrel. This is teh prime feature that provides teh spinning motion for the projected bullet. The rifle caliber is a typical measurement in inches signifying the barrel bore diameter.
Multiple Barrel Rifles Categories:
- Single Barrel – Such rifles contain just one projectile for firing
- Double Barrel – They consist of two barrels that can be fired one after another and are conveniently designed for rifles as well as shotgun rounds.
- Combination Firearms – These consist of multiple barrels of varied types like rifled barrels and smoothbore barrels, to provide different firing projectiles.
Hunting rifles in India are generally used for finding big game or small game, again classified as centerfire and rimfire. People may use bolt action rifles for their precise accuracy and reliability. Semi-automatic rifles are not very popular but still used for their fast speed during follow-up shots for hunting game. Lever-action rifles are rarely found in India when compared to other rifle counterparts, bolt-action and semi-automatic ones.
Choosing a right hunting rifle in India can be tricky for many factors such as type of ammunition, type of action (bolt, semi-automatic, or lever). We need to consider the cartridge, the model, and optical preferences and other accessories (sling, mount, and muzzle brake). You need to choose a rifle as per Indian law and legal regulations meant for your hunting activities.
Follow Responsible Hunting Practices
- You have to know your hunting limits and understand the working of your rifle.
- Your shooting prowess must be assessed so that there are no misfiring or casualties.
- It is best to follow ethical hunting practices, respect the wildlife around you and take just what you require.
- Find hunting grounds in accordance with the regulatory compliances of that particular area.
- As a responsible Indian citizen, you should take your gun ownership quite seriously and keep the firearms in a very safe and protected place, especially when not in use.
- Treat your firearms with caution and do not use them for trivial purposes.
- Handling the firearms safely should come naturally to you, this can be achieved by training under an expert hunter or wildlife official.
- It is better to be acutely aware of your surroundings during your hunting episodes so that you hold and point in the right direction.
Rifles Used When Hunting for Big Game
Big game hunting is popularly known as shikar in India, it was widespread and prevalent during the British rule in India. People are known to use centerfire hunting rifles in India that have bolt-action or lever-action working systems. Popular rifle models such as Winchester Classic, Ruger American, Uramex Hammer, and Browning X-bolt are favourites among the seasoned hunters. Superior quality rifles from the best top brands can give you the most productive outcome.
Speaking about robust and precision rifles, you cannot miss out on Corbett 22. Designed to match the modern-day technical excellence, Geam Guns has introduced the hunting rifles in India, a perfect firearm for your big game shooting trips. You can also purchase rifle scope and other primary accessories for your hunting trip at select outlets in India.
Rifles Used When Hunting for Small Game
Corbett .22 LR is considered best for Indian terrain and small game like birds and rabbits. It offers the most accurate short range shots at low recoil and affordable ammunition options. Small game hunters can also choose air rifles with low-powered spirng action. Calibers such as HMR or .17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire can also be effetcive for small game hunting.
Rifles with side-fire bullets or ammunition is a must for novice shooters due to their smooth recoil and affordable ammunition options. New hunters have to learn and practice well before indulging in shooting expeditions. As a beginner, you can take a lot of time to practice and perfect your shooting abilities alongwith mastering your breath control without emptying all your money at the range.
It is always advisable to evaluate the kind of hunt you have in mind, whether it is a stalk with a bait at 200 yards or a hazardous mountain hunt in unfavourable shooting conditions. You may consider a cache hunt with a direct and clear field of vision. So, alongwith the weapon in your hand, the shooting range also matters a great deal when you are hunting small or large game.
Second Best Firearms Options for Hunting
- Air Rifles – These rifles can be availed from top-class brands in India to rival actual firearms.
- Calibers – Big game hunters prefer calibers that include .30 – .06 Springfield, .300 and .308 Winchester Magnum.
- Shotguns – These flexible hunting tools are lethal and used for small & big hunting like deer, bear, and buffaloes.
Hunting trips are not totally dependent on rifles, you need to look at other hunting accessories and gain experience. With repeated hunting sprees to upgrade the quality of your hunting adventures.
The firearm that you select for hunting rifles may not do all the exhaustive work, but, nevertheless, it is the most essential tool that you need. A good quality rifle will offer safety, accuracy, and comfort while handling. Shopping for firearms can feel like a duanting task but if you cover your basics and understand the mechanics of a rifle, it will help you get the best rifle for a competitive price.