African Lion Shot Placement: A Guide for Hunters

Hunting is an exciting activity that requires proper preparation and knowledge of the target animal. One of the most sought-after Dangerous Game animals to hunt in Africa is the lion. But as exhilarating as the hunt may be, it’s essential to understand where to shoot an African lion to ensure a humane and ethical kill. In this article, we’ll discuss African lion shot placement, covering everything from the anatomy of the lion to the recommended caliber and bullet type. Shot placement for lions is extremely important. Hit them right…if not, you’ll experience why they consider them dangerous game animals.

The Anatomy of African Lions

Understanding the anatomy of an African lion is crucial in determining the best shot placement. Lions have a muscular and robust body, with the male lion weighing up to 420 pounds and the female lion weighing up to 280 pounds. Here are the critical parts of a lion’s anatomy to consider:

The Heart and Lungs

The heart and lungs are the most vital organs to hit when hunting an African lion. The heart is located just behind the lion’s front leg and above the elbow. The lungs are located in the chest cavity and extend to the back of the ribcage. A bullet that hits both the heart and lungs will quickly cause the lion to expire.

The Brain

A well-placed shot to the brain is also a humane way to kill an African lion. The brain is located in the skull, just behind the lion’s eyes. A shot to the brain will cause instant death, but it’s a small target that requires precision.

The Spine

The spinal cord is another target area that can result in a quick kill. A shot to the spine will immobilize the lion, preventing it from moving or attacking.

African Lion Shot Placement

The best shot placement for an African lion depends on the angle and distance of the shot. Here are the recommended shot placements for different angles:

Broadside Shot

A broadside shot is when the lion is facing perpendicular to the hunter. The ideal shot placement for a broadside shot is directly behind the lion’s front leg, just above the elbow. A shot to this area will hit the heart and lungs, resulting in a quick and humane kill.

Quartering Away Shot

A quartering away shot is when the lion is facing away from the hunter at an angle. The ideal shot placement for a quartering away shot is at the back of the ribcage, just behind the shoulder. This shot will hit the lungs, liver, and diaphragm, causing the lion to expire quickly.

Quartering Towards Shot

A quartering towards shot is when the lion is facing the hunter at an angle. The ideal shot placement for a quartering towards shot is at the base of the lion’s neck, where it meets the shoulder. This shot will hit the lungs and heart, causing the lion to expire quickly.

Head-on Shot

A head-on shot is when the lion is facing directly towards the hunter. The ideal shot placement for a head-on shot is just below the lion’s chin, where the neck meets the chest. This shot will hit the lion’s heart, causing it to expire quickly.

Recommended Caliber and Bullet Type for African Lion Hunting

They are extremely dangerous when wounded so make sure your first shot count! Most countries require a .375 minimum for all dangerous game; the bigger the better, as long as accuracy is not sacrificed. The caliber and bullet type are also essential factors to consider when hunting an African lion. Here are the recommended caliber and bullet type for lion hunting:

Caliber

The minimum caliber for lion hunting is .375 H&H Magnum. However, many experienced hunters recommend using a .416 or .458 caliber rifle for added stopping power.

Bullet Type

The recommended bullet type for lion hunting is a controlled-expansion bullet that retains its weight and penetrates deeply into the animal’s body. A good quality soft (Swift A-Frame or Barnes) in a .30 caliber will readily kill a lion. They are not thick skinned, and sometimes expire immediately with a well-placed bullet. Examples of good bullet types include Nosler Partition, Swift A-Frame, Barnes Triple-Shock X, and Woodleigh Weldcore.

FAQs

Is it legal to hunt African lions?

Hunting African lions is legal in some countries, but it’s important to research the hunting regulations and laws in your location before planning a hunt.

What is the minimum caliber for lion hunting?

The minimum caliber for lion hunting is .375 H&H Magnum, but many experienced hunters recommend using a .416 or .458 caliber rifle for added stopping power.

What is the ideal shot placement for a broadside shot?

The ideal shot placement for a broadside shot is directly behind the lion’s front leg, just above the elbow. This shot will hit the heart and lungs, resulting in a quick and humane kill.

What is the recommended bullet type for lion hunting?

The recommended bullet type for lion hunting is a controlled-expansion bullet that retains its weight and penetrates deeply into the animal’s body. Examples of good bullet types include Nosler Partition, Swift A-Frame, Barnes Triple-Shock X, and Woodleigh Weldcore.

What is the most important thing to consider when hunting an African lion?

The most important thing to consider when hunting an African lion is to ensure that the animal is taken down humanely and ethically. This includes understanding the lion’s anatomy and shot placement, using the recommended caliber and bullet type, and following hunting regulations and laws.