On Safari with their Custom’s

George Gibson, Chris Ramage, Jeff Smaistrla and Anthony Nicholes together with Lorraine Washburn joined us on safari during the fall just as we started to prepare for the onset of winter. All sporting precision shooting Custom Firearms the hunters came prepared for Africa and the unlimited long-range opportunities provided by the East Cape.

Our old friend, George Gibson, who played such an integral role with arrangements during a difficult year for travel must be commended for sticking with us and staying true to course. We were most grateful to not only George, but the entire group for making it out to Africa. At the time the world was very much still on the edge of its seat with the possibility of an entire collapse not ruled out for any stretch of the imagination. But while the world was in turmoil the hunting was always going to be special….

And those who came were rewarded. George for one most certainly made the most of his opportunities with his Gunwerks 7mm LRM and shared the following on his experience…

“My second hunt with John X Safaris did not disappoint. It was once again a great experience with a diverse offer of game and varied hunting experiences. It truly was an awesome hunt and a culinary venison adventure with my friends in Africa. Witnessing the breath-taking sunsets in the Great Karoo was a unique treat and one I’ll fondly remember. Until next time!” ~ George Gibson

As for Andy Nichols and Lorraine Washburn they were to join us for their first taste of Africa. Andy hunted his dream Kudu with his custom Horizon Firearms 6.5 PRC Kudu Series and Lorraine made the most of the world-class game viewing opportunities on offer in the East Cape. Of course there were many highlights along the way, but they best summed it up upon their return home…

“Our time with John X Safaris exceeded all expectations. This was our first trip to South Africa and it will not be our last. The whole experience was amazing from photo safari side trips, exceptional food to challenging hunts. I feel this was so much more than a hunting trip. It was truly the adventure of a lifetime.” ~ Andy Nichols

Chris Ramage and his trusty Horizon Firearms Model 700 Remington was a man we knew very little about prior to his arrival in Africa. He joined the group on a recommendation from a friend.

“My first African experience.  My first outfitter experience.  John X Safaris came highly recommended for their professionalism and the experience they offer… I can see why!  Dave, my professional hunter and Shooter, my tracker were fantastic, polite and very experienced.  Not only were they accomplished hunters, but very knowledgeable about the species we pursued.  I plan to return and bring family and friends.  Thank you for an experience of a lifetime.” ~ Chris Ramage

Upon settling up for his safari at the end of his hunt Chris paid us the greatest compliment of all by immediately rebooking to return again. It was a highlight in our season and a hunt we eagerly look forward to come April of 2023 when Chris will return with his Dad.

As for Jeff Smaistrla shooting a Custom Alamo Precision 300 Win Mag ~ Summed it up best…

“After years of planning with postponements due to a global pandemic and then scheduling and rescheduling of flights, we finally made it! When all was said and done, what an absolutely AMAZING and EPIC ADVENTURE!

Our trip far exceeded any expectations or preconceived notions. Carl, Stix, Trish and the entire team provided a seamless, first class experience throughout the planning and execution of our safari. The hunting areas in both the south and the north are second to none. Attention to detail was paramount to the entire operation and everyone strived to ensure we got the most out of every aspect of the journey. The diversity of picturesque terrain and countless number of species intermingled throughout the Eastern Cape is awe inspiring. What was once thought of as a “bucket list” hunt to be checked off, has now transitioned into the realization of only the first chapter in a hopefully lengthy novel of African expeditions yet to be written. I cannot wait to return with both my father and son for a 3-generation experience in the coming years.

A special shout out to my PH Martin. Your knowledge and work ethic are beyond your years. Your passion for making the most of every situation is clearly evident. You encouraged me out of my comfort zone and have made me a better hunter and marksman because of it. I will be forever grateful. And to Grant, my cameraman, thank you for your professionalism and artistic vision. You were able to capture the experience in a way I will always be able to look back and remember, relive and share every moment of the safari with family and friends for years to come. Cheers!”

We are happy to report that all went as planned with the group upon their return home to the US. The system proved to be hassle free and with a simple negative PCR Covid-19 test result taken within 72 hours prior to departure from the US/SA we are confident that you too will experience the same scenario on your safari to Africa during 2021.

Contact us today for more information on our hunts and feel free to mail Carl directly on johnxsafarishunts@gmail.com with your specific safari requests or quotes. We look forward to hearing from you and sharing a campfire in Africa.

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