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Life of a Sockeye On July 22nd, 2021, news broke that Bristol Bay was having its biggest sockeye salmon return since recordkeeping began in 1893. More than 63 million sockeye had returned to the bay’s different watersheds and fish were still running. By the time the run was complete, almost 66 million sockeye had returned on their journey to complete the life of a sockeye salmon. A few days later, I left town to guide a natural history brown-bear film shoot in Southeast Alaska. One of the sequences we were trying to get was of a bear chasing salmon underwater. We had a camera in an underwater housing submerged near the base of a raging waterfall. It could be operated from 100 yards away with an iPad. On its screen, I watched dozens of pink salmon and small, darting, feasting Dolly Varden. In the middle of the frenzy was a salmon with a crimson body and green head—a male sockeye. It was swimming in place beneath the falls, waiting for the right moment to attempt climbing them so it cou

Post: 31 October 23:18

4 Ways to Manage Buck Fever “Buck fever” is a real thing, and for some hunters it becomes a terrible monster. Just last fall I watched as one of my hunting buddies unraveled at the seams while trying to shoot a mature Coues whitetail. Despite having a stable shooting position and plenty of time, the hunter simply couldn’t execute a precise shot. Adrenaline, doubt and emotion combined to make a steady hold and calm trigger squeeze as elusive as the legendary Loch Ness monster. Adrenaline, when it hits our system, gives us extra strength and energy to combat dangerous situations or attackers, or lift cars off babies, or run and swim faster than we’re usually capable of. It also makes our heart race, our limbs tremble and our vision blur. These conditions make good shooting extremely difficult. Once we’ve missed a shot these problems rapidly escalate, because fear that the buck or bull we’re shooting at will escape sends another big adrenaline dump. Frustration and anger jump into the me

Post: 17 October 10:47

8 Best Charge-Stopping Bear Cartridges 1. .45-70 Government First adopted by the U.S. military in 1873, the .45-70 Government has been one of the longest-standing big-game cartridges of all time. It’s also been incredibly popular among Alaskan hunters and guides, especially in lever-actions like Marlin’s 1895 Guide Gun, which is compact, fairly lightweight and highly maneuverable in close quarters. It’s also capable of sending a massive projectile, like Buffalo Bore’s 430-grain hard-cast bullet, at roughly 2000 fps and 3,600 ft.-lbs. from the muzzle. Talk about stopping power. 2. .454 Casull Developed by Dick Casull and Jack Fulmer in 1957, the .454 Casull is a dangerous game hunter’s dream come true. One of the more powerful handguns available today, the .454 is capable of pushing a 300-grain Buffalo Bore bullet at 1650 fps with 1,813 ft.-lbs. of energy at the muzzle. Nelson killed one of his charging grizzlies with a .454 Casull, which he says is one of his favorite choices for bear

Post: 23 September 00:21

Hunting Squirrels: Which .22 is for You? Lever-action, single-shot, bolt-action, semi-automatic and pump. When we picture a .22-caliber rifle in our mind, one of these traditional guns is sure to appear. However, a new style is emerging as a great sporting tool. Lately, .22-caliber rifles are being built on tactical rifle frames. These guns may look a lot different, but when it comes to putting a round in a squirrel’s ear they all work the same. With squirrel season in full swing in the Midwest, what better time to take a look at America’s favorite rifle caliber. Literally billions of rounds of .22-caliber rimfire ammunition are fired each year. Most of it is shot while plinking and hunting squirrels and rabbits, though small varmints like groundhogs are also heavily hunted with rimfire guns Today, almost all rimfire ammo in common use is of .22-caliber, with only a few limited exceptions (like the .17 HMR). This was not always the case, however. One of the most sought-after "Yankee"

Post: 20 September 10:19

Do Biologists Listen to Hunters? Reality is, wildlife managers listen more than many believe — but hunters have to listen in return, too Although such situations can be frustrating, officials say open dialogue is the key to bridging the gap between hunters and biologists. Butler believes that starts with giving hunters real-world numbers. “Here in Mississippi, we have great deal of data on what real hunters see and hear while in the field based on the observations they record as a part of our Spring Gobbler Hunting Survey,” he said. “Over the past 20 years, hunters in Mississippi hear between one and two gobblers per hunt, on average. Hunts in which more than four gobblers are heard only happen on about six to eight trips out of every 100. Most properties only harvest about one gobbler per 500 acres, on average. These numbers don’t sound eye-popping, but they’ve been pretty consistent through time and should help us all really appreciate those rare days when the woods are on fire and

Post: 19 September 18:45

Top 5 Hunting Towns in America Have You Ever Hunted in These Towns? Man, you hate to rank stuff sometimes. Case in point, college football. What makes one team better than another, anyway — TV time, a difficult schedule, wins and losses? Rankings and choices concerning numero uno lend themselves to loopholes, weak arguments and plenty of opinions. So what exactly qualifies a town as one of the BEST hunting towns in America? To find out, I polled hunters who find themselves in the woods for work and play … biologists, editors and industry folks, and here’s what they said: Every great hunting town needs a variety of game. It has to have cafés, hole-in-the wall restaurants, inexpensive hotels, meat processors, and a game and fish office nearby doesn’t hurt, either. Tons of public hunting land within an hour’s drive. Interesting stuff to see if you tag out early or just get tired of hunting. Albuquerque, New Mexico New Mexico’s scattered peaks are notorious for growing monster bulls. A r

Post: 18 August 20:22

Saskatchewan taking steps to control wild boars and feral pigs As wild boars continue to run rampant in Saskatchewan, the provincial government said it is taking steps to address the issue. The province said it will proactively enhance and broaden the regulation and control of wild boars and feral pigs. It will include adding the animals as regulated pests. The president of the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities has been calling on the province to shut down the wild boar farms. Ray Orb told Global News last month that the animals destroy cropland and get into grain crops. “But they also get into pastureland so they can get into native forage. They can do a lot of damage in a short period of time,” Orb said. “It’s just the nature of those animals that they can do that.” Wild boars are also known to harass livestock and wildlife. The province said it is developing regulations for the licensing of existing wild boar farms and imposing a moratorium on new farms. “In

Post: 28 July 18:30

How to Introduce Your Older Hunting Dog to a Puppy Some Tips for Young and Old Dogs Living Together You're likely pretty excited about bringing your new puppy home. Your older hunting dog might not share the same feelings. Ways to introduce your adult dog to the new pup in your life follow here. Short, Positive Interactions Your adult dog has learned plenty in your time together. It's the pup that needs some schooling. Dogs of course have instinctive ways of sorting out the pecking order. An older canine has earned territorial rights over your home, yard, truck and where you exercise (and hunt) this dog. Enter the puppy. S/he has no rules and is full of endless energy. The older dog is set in his or her ways. A hard-charging, wildly running pup changes this. Read their body language as they interact. The older dog will likely growl when the pup pushes things too far. Slowly, surely, the young dog should get the message, and show increasing respect for its elder. You've introduced this

Post: 26 July 11:01

Montana man convicted of poaching four bucks A Montana man recently lost his hunting privileges for the next 16 years after poaching four mule deer bucks last October. Brayden Reed was convicting of spotlighting and shooting two bucks on Oct. 2 and a third buck on private property on Oct. 8 before taking them to BLM’s Ah-Nei Recreation Area where he removed the antlers and backstraps, according to a press release. Reed did not have a valid hunting license at the time nor tags for any of the deer. All of the incidents occurred before the start of general deer season on Oct. 23. The bonus? During the investigation, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks game warden Connor Langel also discovered a fourth illegally killed mule deer. Reed pleaded guilty to four counts of unlawful possession of deer, two counts of wasting game, three counts of hunting during a closed season, two counts of unlawful use of equipment, two counts of hunting without a license and one count of killing more than a l

Post: 14 July 10:36

Early Season Hunting Conditions Depending on where you hunt and exactly when you’re in the field, early-season hunting can be brutal. For example, sitting in a ground blind near an antelope watering hole or putting the stalk on a Western muley can cause you to sweat like you were trying to earn a spot in the NFL combine. You’d think that sitting perched in a tree would offer some relief due to the wind, but that’s not always true either. Hot and humid conditions without any breeze can be just as tough 15 feet up. Traditional cotton shirts or blue jeans don’t work well in these situations because they don’t breathe well or wick your sweat away. As a result, your clothes just stay wet and eventually start to stink. Not ideal for hunting, especially if you’re on a multi-day trip out west. At the same time, some southern or western hunts may take you through some challenging terrain, where briars, thorns, and other vegetation tears at your hunting clothes. That means your lightweight hunt

Post: 30 June 16:09

Life on the Ledge: Judging Yardage Shooting at Alaska big game presents a unique set of problems for the bowhunter. They live in such diverse terrain; they are frequently hunted in extreme weather and they vary dramatically in size from hundred-pound deer to nearly a ton of bison. And, regardless of size, habitat or weather, one of the biggest challenges of bowhunting is judging distance to the target animal. Mis-guessing the distance to the target, by only a few yards, is perhaps the most common reason archers miss game when bowhunting. Even with high tech, modern bows, there is still plenty of arc in an arrow’s flight path. Without question, the best way to judge yardage is to make use of a modern laser range finder, preferably one with angle-compensation features. However, there are many hunting scenarios when laser ranging is not practical or too time consuming. So, nothing will ever take the place of being able to accurately gauge distance by eyeballing it quickly. Learning to

Post: 22 June 12:47

10 Amazing Facts About Velvet Antlers Did you know velvet is hot to the touch and has its own insect repellent? Over the next three months, buck racks will grow at a fast and furious pace, and the process is nothing short of amazing. Here’s a look at 10 interesting facts. 1. Growing antlers consist of a core of developing bone and cartilage covered with velvet. The antlers grow out and up from the tips, as cartilage is replaced by bone. 2. According to scientists at the Mississippi State Deer Lab, velvet antlers grow rapidly in late spring and summer, as much as 3/4 inch a week for yearling bucks and 1 1/2 inches per week for adults. 3. Did you know that velvet antlers, which grow via a complex system of blood vessels, are hot to the touch? Top whitetail scientist Dr. Grant Woods says, “There is so much blood carrying protein and minerals to a buck’s antlers this time of year that even small racks are easily detected by thermal imaging devices. Antlers glow like neon signs when [you’

Post: 10 June 09:38

Hunting regulations Czech Republic For hunting in the Czech Republic you need a Czech hunting license (please bring your own valid hunting license from your country too) and a hunting liability insurance from the Czech Insurance Office. Both are organized by our partner for you. Export of trophies The trophies for game caught in the Czech Republic may be imported into EU without any problems. Traceability can be required by the EU authorities at any time, e.g. the hunter must be able to prove where the game was killed. This is the hunting protocol which is created at the end of the hunt. Small game hunting Our partner has been dedicated to small game hunting for years and organizes hunts for pheasants, royal pheasants, wild turkeys and red chickens. All the hunts take place in the hunting area Kakov. Our hunting area with a size of 600ha is located on the edge of the Planice ridge, about 40 km from the city of Pilsen, near the small town Nepomuk between the villages Polanka and Pohor

Post: 8 June 14:16

Fishing in Latvia Fishing for food has been a topical activity since the beginning of humankind. However, even today it has not lost its influence and significance. It is a great way to be alone with nature or to spend time with family or like-minded people. The diversity of nature offers the opportunity for a chilled family holiday by the sea, river or lake, and allows a passionate fisherman's dream of a big catch to be fulfilled. There are many different fish species in Latvian waters, and none of them are poisonous or dangerous to health. The most popular of these are pike, pike-perch, trout, carp, tench, perch, vimba, roach, bream, flounder and smelt, but the biggest pride of a fisherman is catching salmon or sea trout. Several fish species spend most of their lives at sea, only arriving in rivers during spawning, but some of these fish live and spawn in Latvia's rivers and lakes. Ezers un laivas Fishing in lakes Latvia is rich in a variety of beautiful lakes, which are home t

Post: 22 May 23:35

5 SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT ELK ANTLERS 1. ELK ANTLER RETENTION IS TESTOSTERONE-DRIVEN Elk antlers begin to form immediately after the last set is shed. Because elk antler grows faster than any other tissue in its body, a healthy bull can grow nearly one inch of antler every single day, leaving them with a fully formed set of antlers within the next few months. In many cases, disputes with predators or other bulls will cause these antlers to break off, but they’ll actually shed on their own if left undamaged. Why? Because an elk’s ability to retain its antlers is driven by its testosterone levels. After mating season ends, the level of doe pheromones in the air decreases, causing bull testosterone to drop as well. Once a bull loses enough testosterone, its body will pick up on the change and begin to shed its antlers in response. 2. DIFFERENT ELK POPULATIONS HAVE UNIQUE ANTLERS There are many subspecies of elk, and at least six variants live in North America. Over time and multiple gene

Post: 21 May 17:25

Type of hunts in Poland Individual red stag hunting European Red Deer – In Poland we can find couple of local variety of red deers like carpatian red deer or masurien. With a great food base and natural conditions for red deers, their population in Poland increasing . That is why we are able to increase our shooting plans as well. Moreover Polish Hunting Association launched a special program with rules of selection which aims to improve the quality of trophies – and it is certainly do.red stag hunts in poland Ultimate Hunting clients have to their disposal hunting areas where there is a possibility to shoot a record trophies . Top selected areas are located nearly all the way through west part of Poland . Gold medal trophies reach 12-13kg. Hunting season start at the end of August, the middle of September with rut time and ends in February. Individual roe buck hunting Individual roe buck hunting – One of the most popular types of hunts in Poland is individual Hunting for roe bucks.

Post: 17 May 12:16

Air Rifles Continue Hunting’s Quiet Revolution I’ll never forget my first morning deer hunting on public land near my childhood home in southern Wisconsin, a state with more than 600,000 deer hunters. For nine days a year, the state could field the world’s seventh largest army. Since hunters are required to wear blaze orange during the gun deer season, come November the Wisconsin woods and fields take on the look of a never-ending pumpkin patch—a loud one at that. As I sat in a makeshift stand consisting of a board wedged between two branches about 15 feet off the ground, dawn brought a nearly steady barrage of rifle reports on the order of an Antietam reenactment. Until that time, I had no idea whitetail deer could run that fast. A blast from a .30-30, .270, or .30-06 (all common calibers used for deer hunting) will carry for miles, like gunpowder-induced thunder. The notion of a quiet morning communing with nature in the deer woods was, instead, something more akin to a day at the

Post: 15 May 23:23

When is the right time to restrict your aging hunting dog from the field? With shaking hands and nervous anticipation, I slipped the GPS collar around Winchester’s neck and felt the subtle trembling always present prior to launch. For a moment, I considered leaving the collar in the truck, knowing my big running partner wouldn’t be running strong enough for me to fear him going over the edge of nowhere, one of the defining characteristics of our 12-year relationship. He sat quietly, except for the gentle thumping of his tail on the seat, while I assembled the Winchester 101, 12-gauge, I had also considered leaving in the truck. But, Winchester knew that the gun and the collar meant a hunt, and their absence meant the outing was only a walk. The March morning had dawned clear and cold, suggesting the snow cover in the mountains would present a crust that would support Winchester’s weight. Opportunities for the perfect conditions that once were a luxury had become a necessity for Winc

Post: 18 April 12:51

Top 5 Upland Bird Hunting Shotguns from Pheasant Fest 2022 With a few new shotguns for 2022 and other time-tested favorites, here are our top scattergun selections. Weatherby – Orion 20-Gauge Built upon the legacy and success of the Orion 12-gauge platform, this crowd favorite is now available in three 20-gauge models, including two field-oriented versions. The Orion I is a 28-inch with stylish gloss finish and the Orion Matte Blue is a 26-inch with a sleek matte finish. There is also a sporting clays version with 30-inch ported barrels, extended chokes, and a four-way adjustable comb. The shorter and slimmer side-locking lug action makes this stackbarrel feel right at home with a perfect balance point and lighter form factor for those notable, all-day forays. The Orion I and Matte Blue come equipped with a 3-inch chamber, chrome-lined bores, ejectors, vented ribs, single bead front sight, and a trio of interchangeable choke tubes. Benelli – Super Black Eagle 3 28-Gauge With over te

Post: 22 March 10:11

Hunting dog survives 50-foot fall into well, rescued by Texas game wardens Maria, a bird dog, was chasing an injured quail when she went missing. Texas game wardens had to get a bit creative while rescuing a hunting dog name Maria who found herself lost at the bottom of a well in South Texas during a recent hunting trip. According to the game wardens blotter, during the course of the quail hunt on a property in Jim Hogg County, Maria had chased an injured bird through a thicket and didn't return, which worried her owners. They began an immediate search and eventually found her trapped about 50 feet down at the bottom of a well on the property. Game wardens in Jim Hogg County, typically tasked with enforcing the state's hunting and wildlife laws, were quick to arrive and used a makeshift pulley system to lower a kennel to the bottom. Inside the kennel, they placed hunted quail to entice Maria inside, wardens said. After some time, the pup eventually moved into the crate. Maria wa

Post: 22 March 09:57

Hunting in the Middle Ages In the modern US, hunting is not considered an elite activity. One tends to think of country folk and good old boys going hunting, often because they could use the food. The last time hunting was considered something for the wealthy and powerful was back when it was considered appropriate to go to Africa or Alaska to shoot elephants or lions or polar bears in Africa or Alaska. In the Middle Ages, in contrast, hunting was very much an activity for elites. Nobles loved to hunt, to the the point that giving up hunting was a sign of serious penance. Several saints started life as rich lords but were converted to the religious life when, on a hunting trip, they saw an animal carrying a cross. Fantastic stories often involved hunting, such as capturing a white (albino) hart or trapping a unicorn, as seen in this late medieval tapestry. Probably the main source of meat on a noble table was from hunting, rather then livestock raising. Nobles hunted various k

Post: 23 December 14:18

WISCONSIN BOWHUNTER ATTACKED BY BLACK BEAR When you’re hunting from a treestand, the last thing you expect is for a bear to climb up to attack you. Unfortunately, that’s what happened to Wisconsin bowhunter Dalton Roach. The 300-lb black bear, curious as to what Roach was doing up in the tree, climbed up and bit him in the back, KARE reports. “It’s definitely not totally uncommon for a bear to go into a tree with a hunter,” said Roach. “But the fact that he actually started gnawing on me and stuff, like that was a little abnormal.” He initially spotted the bear from his treestand and started recording it; however, “[b]y the time he was under my tree and then up behind me, [it] was 15 total seconds,” said Roach. Fortunately, he realized the situation he was in and didn’t panic despite the fresh puncture wounds and proximity to the bear. “I kind of pulled myself out and then stood around, and turned kinda in one motion to then face the bear and then just started yelling and holle

Post: 8 November 19:20

Your November Rut Playbook In the northern and central states and Canada, the whitetail rut is about to explode in a frenzy that anyone with their eyes open will notice as bucks heedlessly cross farm fields, suburban yards and roads in their furious search for does in estrus. But the rut isn’t just a time of frenzy. The seeking, chasing and breeding phases of the rut that occur in November across much of the whitetail’s range often require different strategies. Here’s a week-by-week guide to staying in step with the rut this month to up your odds of tagging the buck you want. November 1-7 Halloween is just gone but some of the trees are still pumpkin orange. The fallen leaves have a fresh, damp, musky smell in the early morning. Saplings have been rubbed raw along field edges and all over the woods, and scrapes seem to be everywhere. The young bucks are harassing does now like exuberant teenagers, but the older bucks, though they are scraping and rubbing, aren’t yet moving hard in sea

Post: 3 November 19:14

Five Top Tips to Improve Low Light Hunting Illuminated Reticles One of the most popular simple solutions to low light hunting is to buy a riflescope with an illuminated reticle, whereby a light source is directed onto the aim points of the reticle, highlighting the reticle in red, green or blue. The illumination is variable and this allows the shooter to increase the brightness of the reticle to suit the shooting conditions. Hawke Optics have several illuminated riflescopes with illumination control and options of red, green or blue to suit the shooters preference. Illuminated reticles are most useful at dawn or dusk, after this time it is better to illuminate the target with an external light source. View the entire collection of Hawke Reticles. Laser Sights For those countries that allow hunting with a laser one of the tried and tested methods for seeing the point of aim in low light conditions is to fit a laser pointer to a rifle. The most common method of using a laser is to

Post: 26 October 22:53

At 78 years of age, cancer has pretty much taken away my ability to climb mountains in search of elk. Don’t feel sorry for me, I have killed plenty of elk, mostly cows for the good eating. The good Lord has allowed me more than a charmed life. I have a wonderful family with great kids, grandkids and great grandkids and I have fly fished (my main sport) all over the world, sometimes in places I never dreamed I would go. My youngest son, Stefan, and I decided to do something we had never done before. We planned to go on a guided elk hunt. I work for the International Sportsmen’s Expositions telling fly-fishing tales and doing fly tying demonstrations. In my spare time I began to canvas the floor, down in Denver, looking for a suitable elk-hunting outfit. QRS Outfitters out of Meeker, Colo., was particularly attractive, and they thought an early season muzzleloader hunt would fit the bill for what we were looking for, so we booked our hunt. Neither of us has owned a muzzleloader, nor ha

Post: 13 October 23:12

HOW TO STAY WARM WHILE HUNTING Cold weather means whitetails are going to be on their feet more than normal. So, you have choices to make. Stay at home and watch hunting shows on TV, go to the field and be miserable or embrace the cold and learn how to make the most of it. I have lived in North Dakota for 26 years. In that time, I have hunted some very harsh conditions. It’s never an easy hunt but the rewards can make it well worth the effort. There are many factors involved in comfortably hunting cold weather including proper preparation, quality clothing, individual tolerances and plain ole determination. Here are some of my tips for not just surviving a cold weather hunt but actually enjoying it. HOW TO DRESS FOR COLD WEATHER Feet - Most people have trouble keeping their feet warm. I have tried just about everything out there and have finally figured out what works for me. The first rule is that your boots need to fit loosely. Tight boots restrict your circulation and red

Post: 21 September 15:10

Hunting Perch with Waterfowl Calls From mid-winter through ice-out, Devils Lake guide Jason Feldner “hunts” perch with a system he says can’t be beat. Relying on highly detailed GPS mapping and electronics, signs from Mother Nature and a ‘three call’ system, Feldner quickly locates and ices big perch, day-in-day-out. “When it comes to finding fish, you’ve gotta key in on slight 1-foot depth contours—especially for perch. In mid- and late winter, a good place to start is that 8- to 15-foot range,” says Feldner. Like birds following a migration path, perch slowly travel specific depth contours from mid-winter through late ice to reach their spring spawning areas. “If you can’t get right on those one-foot contours and follow the perch, you’re gonna have a tough time staying on the action,” says Feldner. But to get the contour right, sink an Aqua-Vu camera, and you’ll spy a stockyard of yellow, green and black bars moving amidst swarms of shrimp. “That’s what I try to put my clients on

Post: 17 September 18:23

Wines to Pair with Fowl Turkey, goose, pheasant? A free-range chicken, or even a capon? The time of the season seems to indicate fowl. We kind of like the idea, since it is out of the ordinary to roast a big bird for a festive feast, the kind of bird that can feed a dozen. With that comes wine challenges, though to say “challenge” is stretching the truth. That truth is almost any wine can match nicely with a big bird roast, plenty of vegetables, maybe a grilled romaine salad with parmesan and homemade croutons. Some choices: Evolve Cellars pinot blanc ($15), almost Alsatian in style with its crispness, but it is distinctively Okanagan as well, with its viscosity and herbal notes, surrounded by delightful stone fruit elements. A sensationally good sparkling wine, the Cipes Blanc de Franc ($45) from Summerhill Pyramid Winery, is a sparkling cabernet franc, which will turn heads, and have people coming back for more, so you may need to have two bottles. It is a delightful, fruit-driven wi

Post: 17 September 18:10

Dunker Hunting Dog: A Rugged Norwegian Tracker for Hare and More 🐾 The Dunker hunting dog, also known as the Norwegian Hound, is one of the most underrated yet highly capable scent hounds in the world. Developed in the 19th century by Captain Wilhelm Dunker, this breed was specifically designed to hunt Eurasian mountain hare in the harsh terrain and freezing winters of Norway. Today, the Dunker remains a rare but treasured companion among hunters who value endurance, honesty in tracking, and a strong voice in the field. --- 🎯 What Game Can the Dunker Hunt? The Dunker is primarily bred for hare hunting, but its versatility allows it to pursue a variety of small and medium-sized game: • 🐇 Eurasian mountain hare — the breed’s specialty; Dunkers are known for their ability to track hare scent over long distances and through snow. • 🦊 Red fox — with proper training, Dunkers can be used to track and bay foxes. • 🐈 Lynx — in rare cases, experienced Dunkers have been used to locate l

Post: 2 August 21:34

Top 10 Rifles for Deer Hunting in 2025: Expert Picks 🦌 When it comes to deer hunting, your rifle is more than just a tool - it’s your partner in the field. Whether you’re glassing whitetails from a tree stand or stalking mule deer across open country, the right rifle can make all the difference. In 2025, hunters are spoiled for choice with reliable, accurate, and field-tested options. Here are my top 10 picks, based on real-world performance, build quality, and value. 1. Ruger American Rifle • Why it stands out: Affordable, lightweight, and surprisingly accurate. • Best for: New hunters or those needing a reliable backup. • Calibers: .308 Win, .30-06, 6.5 Creedmoor, and more. • Field note: Adjustable trigger and smooth bolt make it a pleasure to shoot A. 2. Tikka T3x Lite • Why it stands out: Finnish precision with a buttery-smooth bolt. • Best for: Long hikes and mountain hunts. • Calibers: Wide range including .270 Win and 6.5 PRC. • Field note: Factory trigger is crisp; sub-MO

Post: 28 June 21:07

Vector Optics Continental X6 5-30x56 Review I've spent the last few months putting the Vector Optics Continental X6 5-30x56 MBR FFP through its paces, mounted on my trusty rifle with the included one-piece Picatinny mount. I'm not going to sugarcoat anything, just giving you the straight dope from a hunter who actually uses his gear. Vector Optics Continental X6 5-30x56 - The Good: Crystal Clear Glass: Seriously, the glass is impressive for the price. Edge-to-edge clarity is excellent, and I was able to pick out details in low light situations better than I expected. This is a huge plus when you're trying to identify game at dawn or dusk. First Focal Plane (FFP) Reticle: This is a must-have for me. The MBR reticle is well-designed, not too cluttered, and allows for accurate holdovers at any magnification. I really appreciate how the reticle subtensions stay consistent, making long-range shots much more predictable. Solid Build Quality: The scope feels robust and well-made. The tu

Post: 23 March 17:44

The Sussex Spaniel: A Low-Riding Hunting Partner for the Thinking Hunter The Sussex Spaniel. Not a breed you see every day afield, and that's a damn shame. This sturdy, low-slung spaniel from the south of England is a serious hunting dog with a unique style and plenty to offer the right hunter. If you value methodical work, a close-working dog, and a partner that doesn't quit, read on. What Will a Sussex Spaniel Hunt? These dogs were bred for thick cover, and they excel at flushing game close. Think rabbits, pheasants, quail, and other ground-nesting birds. Their deliberate pace and loud voice when they're on a scent makes them ideal for hunting in dense brush where you might not see the game until it's practically underfoot. They're not built for long retrieves in water, but they can handle light waterfowl work in moderation. Where to Find Them While they originated in Sussex, England, these dogs are relatively rare worldwide. You'll find pockets of dedicated breeders and hunters

Post: 1 March 23:13

Sako 85 Carbon Wolf: A Hunter's Honest Take on This High-Tech Stalker The Sako 85 Carbon Wolf. Just the name conjures images of stealthy stalks through rugged terrain. It's a rifle that screams "premium" from the moment you lay eyes on it, and commands a price tag to match. But does it live up to the hype? As a hunter who values performance over flash, I've dug into the details to give you the straight goods. A Brief History: Sako's Legacy of Accuracy Sako has a long and storied history, dating back to the early 20th century in Finland. Originally focused on military arms, they quickly gained a reputation for exceptional accuracy and reliability. The Sako 85 series is the modern evolution of that heritage, building upon decades of experience to create rifles that are renowned for their consistent performance. Key Features and Technologies: What Sets it Apart? The Carbon Fiber Stock: The most obvious feature. This isn't just for looks. The hand-laid carbon fiber stock is i

Post: 25 February 20:20

Beretta AL391 Urika 2 (12 Gauge) - A Hunter's review I've owned and hunted with a Beretta AL391 Urika 2 for a good number of years now. It was my go-to semi-auto for everything from waterfowl to upland birds, and even the occasional sporting clays outing. I've put it through its paces in all sorts of conditions – rain, snow, heat, dust – and have a pretty solid understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The Good Stuff Beretta AL391 Urika 2 12-gauge: Shooting Comfort: This is where the Urika 2 truly shines. The gas-operated system does a fantastic job of soaking up recoil. Even with heavier magnum loads, it's surprisingly manageable, which translates to less fatigue during long days in the field and faster follow-up shots. Compared to inertia-driven guns, it's noticeably softer on the shoulder. Reliability (Mostly): When clean and properly maintained, the Urika 2 is generally reliable. It'll cycle a wide range of loads, from light target rounds to heavier hunting loads, without

Post: 16 February 20:53

Review of the Merkel SR1 in .30-06 As an avid hunter and firearms enthusiast, I recently had the pleasure of testing the Merkel SR1 in .30-06, a caliber renowned for its versatility and effectiveness in the field. Merkel is a brand known for its quality craftsmanship, and the SR1 is no exception. Here’s my detailed take on the rifle, including its strengths and weaknesses. Pros: Build Quality: The Merkel SR1 is solidly constructed, offering a high level of durability. The materials used feel premium, and you can tell this is a rifle built to last. The attention to detail in the craftsmanship is evident when you hold it; everything feels tight and well-fitted. Adjustable Optics and Sights: One of the standout features of the SR1 is its scope mount system, which is incredibly user-friendly. Ergonomics: The rifle fits nicely in hand and balances well, which is critical when you’re making those long treks in the wilderness. The stock design is comfortable for various shooting position

Post: 4 February 22:44

Review of the Orsis 120 .308 Win Rifle As a passionate hunter, I always look for firearms that provide reliability and precision in the field. I've had the opportunity to use the Orsis 120 .308 Win rifle for a while now, and I want to share my thoughts on it both the pros and the cons based on my experiences. Pros: Accuracy: Right off the bat, the Orsis 120 impressed me with its accuracy. The .308 caliber combined with the rifle's design allows for tight groupings at distances up to 300 yards. Whether I was at the range or out in the field, I felt confident in taking shots. Build Quality: The craftsmanship of the Orsis 120 is noteworthy. The materials used feel robust, and the rifle has a solid, well-balanced feel in hand. The stock's ergonomic design makes it comfortable to shoulder, which is especially important during long hours in the field. Customizability: This rifle offers a variety of mounting options. I appreciate being able to customize it according to my preferences, w

Post: 31 January 09:17

Review of the Franchi Horizont .30-06 with Dual Brake Muzzle Device As an avid hunter with years of experience in various hunting conditions, I recently had the opportunity to test the Franchi Horizont chambered in .30-06, equipped with the Dual Brake Muzzle Device (DTK). My experience using this rifle has provided me with valuable insights, and I’d like to share both the pros and the cons. Pros: Precision and Accuracy: The Franchi Horizont impresses with its accuracy. Even at longer ranges, I found it easy to achieve tight groups. This is crucial during hunting trips where a precise shot can make the difference between success and failure. Build Quality: The construction of the Franchi Horizont .30-06 is commendable. The materials used feel robust and well-crafted. The wood and metal finish give it a classic look, and the ergonomic design fits comfortably in hand, making it great for those long hours in the field. Recoil Management: The addition of the Dual Brake Muzzle Device is

Post: 29 January 21:48

Honest Review of the ATN HD MARS 4.5-18 Thermal Scope from a Hunter's Perspective As an avid hunter who has used the ATN HD MARS 4.5-18 thermal scope on multiple hunts, including deer, I can confidently say that this optic is a game-changer in many ways, but it’s not without its flaws. Here’s my detailed take on this thermal scope, based on real-world experience in the field. Pros: Exceptional Image Quality: The HD MARS 4.5-18 delivers crisp, clear thermal imaging, even in complete darkness or dense fog. The 1280x720 resolution is a standout feature, allowing me to spot deer and other game at impressive distances. The 4.5-18x magnification range is versatile, making it suitable for both close-range and long-range hunting. Durability and Build Quality: This scope is built like a tank. It’s waterproof, shockproof, and has handled rough terrain, rain, and freezing temperatures without a hitch. I’ve taken it on hunts in harsh conditions, and it’s never let me down. Smart Fea

Post: 16 January 23:56

Behemoth ( hippopotamus ) has been studied quite a bit. It's not easy to watch this cautious giant, constantly sitting up to his ears in his favorite swamp. What we know for sure from the Hippos is t that you can't lose weight by eating grass, salads and walking in the fresh air ))) An adult male hippopotamus is 4 meters long and 4 tons of live weight. That is, the mass of two cars, this is not a sheep sneezed! By its size, the hippopotamus, overtaking the buffalo, shares with the rhinoceros an honorable second place (after the elephant) among land animals. The name in Hebrew is בההוו (behemoth) - "terrible beasts". The second, more learned name is ἱπποπόταμος (hippopotamos), which literally means "river horse" in Greek. The hippopotamus is considered one of the most dangerous animals in Africa. An embittered animal can kill a person in a matter of minutes, trampling him with its feet or inflicting fatal wounds with its fangs. The behemoth is also strong in the water: it is capa

Post: 14 January 11:37

How can a young lady protect you in case of a polar bear attack? The photos shows KLM flight attendant Joanna Van Duffelen, with a Fairchild Armalite AR–10 combat rifle, dressed in Arctic clothing. Photo 1959. The work of flight attendants and stewards begins long before the departure of the aircraft and does not end immediately after landing. The main thing in this job is not food and drinks, but the safety of passengers in any critical situation. In 1958, KLM launched transarctic flights from Amsterdam to Tokyo with refueling in Anchorage. It was the era of motor aircraft at the dawn of mass passenger aviation. The company paid special attention to the risk of an emergency landing in the Arctic. Each plane carried a set of survival equipment. As you can see, KLM Dutch Airlines flight attendant Joanna is ready for the rigors of life in the Arctic. Ms. Van Duffelen is wearing Arctic survival gear aboard every KLM plane flying the polar route from Amsterdam to Tokyo. The set cons

Post: 11 January 20:27

Review of the Pard NV 008 S Day-Night Digital Rifle Scope I recently had the opportunity to try out the Pard NV 008 S digital rifle scope, and I must say, it has left quite an impression on me. In this review, I’ll cover both the positives and the few drawbacks I've encountered while using this versatile scope. Pros: Day and Night Functionality: One of the standout features of the Pard NV 008 S is its ability to function effectively both during the day and at night. The colored image during daylight hours is sharp and clear, while the black-and-white night vision allows for excellent visibility in low-light conditions. Lightweight and Compact Design: Weighing in at just under 1 kilogram, this scope is remarkably lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods without fatigue. Its compact size means it doesn't add excessive bulk to my rifle, which is a significant advantage during long hunting sessions. Video Recording Capabilities: The built-in video recording fea

Post: 24 December 09:54

iRay Saim NV SCD 35 Digital Scope Review I recently had the chance to test out the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 digital scope, and I’d like to share my experience - both what I loved and what I think could be improved. As someone who enjoys night hunting and wildlife observation, I have had the opportunity to use various scopes, and this one has certainly made an impression. iRay Pros: High-Quality Imaging: One of the standout features of the iRay Saim NV SCD 35 is its impressive image quality. The resolution is excellent, even in low-light conditions, allowing for clear and detailed visuals. This is especially valuable during night hunts. User-Friendly Interface: I found the scope very easy to operate. The menu system is intuitive, and it didn’t take long to get familiar with all the settings. Adjusting brightness and contrast on the fly enhances the experience significantly. Robust Build: The build quality is commendable. The scope feels solid and durable, which is reassuring when you’r

Post: 18 December 23:14

“Ever since I was a kid, an Alaskan moose hunt has been at the top of my list. And, this season, it was finally here. We were dropped deep into in the Brooks Range and quickly found ourselves chasing rutting bulls through the tundra swamps, tussocks, and ridge lines. After about a week and a handful of incredible encounters, we were hit with a days-long September snow storm. The sudden weather shift also called for a change in our tactics; we began to hunt bull moose more like a Midwest whitetail. Setting up along an obvious trail—that move proved to be the best decision we made on the entire trip. As we waited to fly the meat out, we glassed up a large grizzly—a bonus opportunity after an already successful hunt. We put a plan for a stalk in place and with luck still on our side, it all came together. There are no words to describe a hunt like this other than, once-in-a-lifetime.” - Mathews own’ Jeff Ozanne #MathewsLIFTX #mathews

Post: 16 December 09:21

Eye E3 Plus V2 Monocular Thermal Imager Review I recently purchased the Eye E3 Plus V2 monocular thermal imager, and I must say it's a game changer for anyone involved in outdoor activities, wildlife observation, or hunting. First and foremost, the thermal sensitivity is impressive. The imaging is clear and accurate, allowing me to spot heat signatures easily even in complete darkness. The 640x480 Eye E3 Plus V2 Monocular resolution provides detailed views, and the adjustable focus helps to refine the images, making it easier to identify objects at varying distances. One of the standout features Eye E3 Plus V2 is its ergonomic design. The monocular is lightweight and easy to hold for extended periods, which is a big plus during long nights spent in the field. The user interface is intuitive, making it accessible even for those who may not be tech-savvy. On the downside, the battery life could be better. While it lasts for several hours on a full charge, extensive use can drain it

Post: 28 November 22:47

Vortex Razor Gen II 4.5-27 Scope Review I recently purchased the Vortex Razor Gen II 4.5-27 scope, and after extensive use, I am more than pleased with its performance. First and foremost, the optics are exceptional. The clarity and brightness of the image are outstanding, even in low light conditions. The multi-coated lenses ensure a crisp view, and I have no complaints about distortion or color fidelity, which is crucial for identifying targets at varying distances. One of the standout features of Vortex Razor Gen II scope is its impressive magnification range. The ability to zoom from 4.5x to 27x allows for versatility in different shooting scenarios, whether you're in close quarters or taking long-range shots. The reticle is also well-designed and easy to use, allowing for quick adjustments and precise aiming. The build quality of the Razor Gen II is top-notch. It's durable and rugged, with a robust construction that can withstand harsh conditions. I’ve taken it out in a vari

Post: 26 November 23:07

Related to request “Long time ago”