The same rifle you’d use for mule deer will work fine on wild sheep. Popular choices include the .270 Winchester with 130 - grain bullet, .30 - 06 Springfield with 150 - grain bullet, 7mm Remington Mag. with 160 - grain bullet, and .300 Weatherby Mag. with 180 - grain bullet. Scopes in the 4X to 6X magnification ranges are ideal.
Contrary to popular belief, most rams are shot inside 150 yards with rifles. Terrain and your own physical limitations might require longer shooting. Since sheep prefer open or semi - open habitat, very long shots are commonly possible if you aren’t inclined or able to stalk closer.
The average archery shot on sheep is 40 yards. These animals are not as hard - hunted or “wired” as some other species, making them ideal to bowhunt if you are in top physical shape.
Good - fitting mountain boots, top - notch 8X or 10X binoculars and a compact spotting scope are any sheep hunter’s primary friends. For gun hunting, boots should have Vibram type lug soles for the best possible traction. For bowhunting, softer Neoprene or plantation crepe rubber allows quieter sneaking inside 50 yards.
Many hunts also require serious backpack equipment for day hikes or extended treks after trophies.
Weather can vary wildly on northern sheep hunts; even during summer months. Be prepared to dress in layers to accommodate heat, cold and wind.
Since most modern sheep hunts legally require a guide, ask your outfitter about specific hunting and shooting gear that works in his area. And don’t be afraid to improvise. If you are in great physical shape, ask about places most guided hunters cannot or will not walk. If you are in poor health or don’t feel physically fit, most top professionals can still recommend strategies that yield shots at rams. For example, horseback hunting is commonplace for Dall sheep in Alaska, the Yukon and the Northwest Territories of Canada, with nearly 100 - percent success on full - curl rams. I once saw an 88 - year - old man ride within 125 yards of a 38 - inch Dall sheep. He climbed off the horse and knocked the sheep flat with one well - placed shot.
If you want to hunt sheep, age or physical condition are not necessarily obstacles.