LAST EDITED ON Apr-26-16 AT 10:21AM (MST)[p]Personally, I think you are being lied to regarding the ibex trophy size. 46-47" ibex are very big. If that's the average, well, that area would have to be spectacular, with the bigger ones going over 50". What did he tell you the average MP ram was in length?
Have you asked Mirbala who you will be hunting with in Kyrgyzstan? The areas are all run by locals so he won't be the actual owner of the hunting lease, a Kyrg national will be. There are some very shady operators in that country.
Mirbala has a very good reputation, especially for Tur in Azerbaijan, so hopefully he will deliver.
Nothing short of moving to Leadville, CO for 6 months will train you sufficiently for the altitude. Just get in as much hiking at atltitude as you can. Hiking from 10,000 ft to 13,000 ft is very different from hiking from 7000 ft to 10,000 ft. I would be surprised if you actually get up to 15,000 ft on a mid October Marco Polo hunt but maybe. Do the best you can and be mentally prepared to deal with the suck, as many times will suck during your trip. A sheep guide from Alaska told me he believes it's 80% mental, if you can deal with the pain and just keep going you will accomplish your goal. I now believe him. It's just one foot in front of the other.
Mid October is a little early for the rut which usually occurs in November. The weather will be better though.
I would spend a lot time looking at MP pictures with stated lengths so you can get some experience as to what you are looking for. Don't be surprised if your guides ask you if you want to shoot at every ram you see, regardless of size. At the end of the day, you are pulling the trigger and you are paying the bill.
I strongly recommend you bring an extra set of binoculars. Your guide will not have any and will constantly ask to use yours. Just a cheap pair of Nikons or Leupolds will work. The native guide's eye sight is usually very good and they are very adept at spotting game at long distances.
Other good items: electrolyte mix for the water, ibuprofen, maybe some prescription strength pain killers from your doc, Diamox prescription, high quality inflatable sleeping pad (dont' skimp here), day time snack food (the lunch food is bad), body wipes, eye bleach to try and wash away the image of the crappers and a HUGE, HEAPING bucket of patience.
I would also recommend getting in some saddle time. If your butt, back and legs are not used to riding it can make for some sore days/nights.
I hope you have a great adventure.
