Potential New State-Record Elk Killed in Nebraska

by
posted on October 6, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
nebraska_new_record_elk_maybe_f.jpg

Photo Courtesy of Big Game Conservation Association/Facebook

14-year-old Hannah Helmer may be joining the record books. Last month, Helmer killed an elk that could soon be named the all-time Nebraska state record.

Sporting a green score of 428-1/8, Helmer's elk could breeze past the previous state record of 409-7/8. Official scores won't be entered until the end of the 60-day drying period.

According to the Omaha World-Herald, Hannah and her father, Joel Helmer—who happens to be an official Boone and Crockett scorer—had scouted the area prior to the hunt, and actually saw another smaller bull that morning where they were hunting, but didn’t take the shot. About a half hour later, the larger bull appeared and, with one shot from her 7mm-08 Remington at 214 yards, Hannah potentially secured her place in the record books.

When asked about the shot, Hannah told the World-Herald, "I tried not to think of how big he was, and just getting those crosshairs right where I was supposed to. Mid-bugle, I shot him. He just walked a little way and laid down. I was happy he died a quick death."

Boone & Crockett will have to confirm the score after the drying period passes, but things are looking good for the Helmer clan.

The “down” side? The main beams alone measure more than 50ʺ, and with a rack that size, the family is concerned it won’t fit through the front door of their home. That's a problem for another day, though.

Latest

Cva Xp Muzzleloaders
Cva Xp Muzzleloaders

CVA Expands Optima and Scout Lines for 2026

CVA is rolling out its new XP and XP‑SB Series, bringing updated ergonomics and enhanced adjustability to both its muzzleloader and single‑shot centerfire platforms.

Dead Air Silencers Unveils the Nomad Ti Over-the-Barrel Suppressor

This new .30-caliber suppressor from Dead Air goes over the barrel, to only add 4.6 inches to the end of your rifle.

Hot From SHOT: The Best New Hunting Shotguns of 2026

If you're back with us, fresh off of yesterday's SHOT show coverage, welcome back. If you're just checking in with us for the first time, be sure to go back and check out our roundups of the best rifles, optics and bowhunting gear to come out of the show so far this year. Today, however, read on to see the best shotguns of SHOT 2026, compiled by longtime contributor and diehard hunter, Brad Fitzpatrick. 

Nosler Whitetail Country Line Extensions

For 2026, Nosler has seen fit to extend its Whitetail Country line, and Phil Massaro likes their choices. Read on for more.

Knight & Hale Expands Mouth Call Lineup

Knight & Hale Game Calls has announced several new mouth calls to its lineup, tested in the field by championship level callers. Check them out here.

New for 2026: Savage 110 Trail Blazer

Leading off Savage's line of next-generation Model 110s comes the 110 Trail Blazer, a perfect showcase for the company's new AccuFit 2 stock. Learn more about it in this exclusive video with American Hunter Editor in Chief Scott Olmsted.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.