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

333 Jeffery
333 Jeffery

Behind the Bullet: The .333 Jeffery

Delve into the history of one of the most fascinating cartridges from the golden era of hunting—the .333 Jeffery.

First Look: ALPS Mountaineering Reservoir 3.0

ALPS Mountaineering has introduced the Reservoir 3.0 hydration bladder. The Reservoir 3.0 features an anti-microbial IonPure treatment that helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and mold, keeping the hydration system fresher between uses.

Cape Buffalo Hunt: The Measure of Memories

It takes too much time, effort and money to hunt Cape buffalo to rush a shot.

New for 2026: Sightmark Strikon VMP 1-4x22mm

Sightmark has released the Strikon VMP 1-4x22mm SFP Fiber V2 Prismatic Riflescope, an updated version of its original variable magnification prismatic sight developed in direct response to shooter feedback.

10 Most Versatile Long-Range Hunting Cartridges

Here’s a look at 10 of the most flexible long-range hunting cartridges.

First Look: Auto-Ordnance "Land of the Free" 250th Anniversary 1911

Auto-Ordnance, in collaboration with the artisans at Koted Arms, has announced the release of the "Land of the Free" 1911, a striking custom stainless pistol honoring the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.