Africa · Shot placement

Jackal shot placement

Black-backed jackal shot placement is a small vital area in the chest, just behind the front leg and low in a slim, dog-like torso. The thick coat and bushy tail make the body look bigger, so hold tighter and lower than the outline suggests.

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51 species, fully offline. Formerly Hunter's Field Guide.

Single-angle preview. The Jackal diagram is in the app.
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Single-angle preview. The Jackal diagram is in the app.

Broadside

Hold on the back line of the near front leg, just below halfway up the body. The chest is narrow, roughly fist-sized. For fur, aim slightly back from the shoulder to limit damage to the pelt.

Quartering and other angles

Quartering, aim through the chest toward the opposite shoulder. Jackals often stop to look back after running; that stop is usually the best shot you will get.

Do not

Do not shoot at a running jackal across open ground unless you are sure of the backstop. Whistle or call to stop it first.

Where they live and the typical miss

Found across Southern and East Africa on farmland, veld and savanna. The typical miss is high over a small target at night or at long range.

Calling at night

Jackals respond well to distress and territorial calls, often at night under a light. Set up with the wind in your favour and let the jackal come close enough for a sure shot.

Related species

The full diagram is in the app

51 species, fully offline. Formerly Hunter's Field Guide.

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