The Proper Use of a Crosman Blaze XT Pellet Gun for Hunting Groundhogs and Raccoons
When considering a Crosman Blaze XT pellet gun that fires a .177 pellet at 1200 FPS for hunting small game such as groundhogs and raccoons, it's important to weigh several factors, including the gun's velocity and the type of ammunition.
Velocity and Shot Placement
I have had experience with taking several raccoons and an opossum using a .22 caliber pellet rifle with a maximum velocity of around 800 FPS. All shots were extremely close to the head, utilizing heavier pellets for maximum penetration. While using the crossman Blaze XT, the key factor is proper projectile selection and shot placement. The heavy pellets utilized in my experiences have been essential, especially for head shots.
For shots over 50 feet, I would not recommend it due to the quick drop-off of velocity, making accurate hits on the target less likely. It's important to maintain a safe distance and use protective gear. This is crucial to avoid any injuries from potential ricochets or pellets.
Understanding FPS Claims
When manufacturers claim a gun has a high FPS, such as 1200 FPS, it's often based on specific conditions. According to Daniel, the claims of 1200 FPS are misleading. Typically, the advertised velocities are achieved with special lightweight pellets, and the actual velocities for standard usage are around 1000 FPS. For optimal performance, it's recommended to use 15 grain HN sniper magnum pellets, which are more accurate and maintain their energy out to 35 yards reliably.
The extra velocity, often claimed to be 1400 FPS or higher, is usually due to the use of lightweight pellets. Lower weight pellets sacrifice penetration and sectional density, which are crucial for effective hunting. Therefore, it's advised to use a standard 1000 FPS gun with appropriate payload to ensure reliable results.
Target Species and Proper Technique
From my experience and advice from Daniel, the Crosman Blaze XT is best suited for smaller game. For rabbits and similar size targets, a .177 pellet is the absolute minimum. However, for groundhogs and raccoons, which are larger and have more substantial body mass, a more powerful option is recommended, such as a .22 rimfire round.
For effective hunting of groundhogs and raccoons, a .22 rimfire round is more appropriate due to its greater range and power. Using the Crosman Blaze XT for distances greater than 30-50 feet is inadvisable as the pellet's energy drops off significantly. This results in a less humane and less effective hunting method. For these animals, a well-placed shot to the body, such as the lungs, is more effective. A single shot to the head or body can be fatal if placed correctly.
Conclusion
The Crosman Blaze XT is a powerful pellet gun, especially when using the right ammunition. For hunting smaller game, it can be effective, but for groundhogs and raccoons, a more powerful weapon is recommended. The appropriate use of the Crosman Blaze XT, combined with careful shot placement and ammunition selection, can make it a reliable companion in your hunting arsenal. Always prioritize safety, especially when dealing with larger and more elusive creatures.
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