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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 local gun range.
Is it any wonder, then, that hunters in droves are paying hush money for compound bows, air bows, silencers and now, new air rifles that deliver never-before-achieved lethality while greatly reducing noise? The trend of ditching ear plugs for weapons that don’t rock the forest (or your ear drums) is a theme that’s booming among America’s 15 million hunters—and nearly everyone seems happy about it.
One brand that is at the forefront of hunting’s quiet revolution is Umarex, purveyors of top-of-the-line air rifles. The company is helping change hunting’s trajectory with technological breakthroughs that have transformed an air rifle’s capabilities—dramatically. While Lewis and Clark used a primitive air gun to take more than 1,000 animals on their famed Voyage of Discovery, new Umarex models are light years from the early air guns—think the difference between the Wright Flyer and Apollo.
At the heart of this quantum leap is a patent-pending valve. The valve, along with a unique regulator, instantly pulses a jet of compressed air at 3,000 pounds per square inch behind either a 550- or 250-grain slug. The result is that the slugs travel at 760 feet per second or 1,000 feet per second respectively. Translated, that’s a wallop. The aptly named Umarex Hammer.50 caliber air rifles are now being used across the globe to hunt everything from deer in the Midwest to bears in Canada to 2,000-pound Cape buffalo in Africa. Indeed, these aren’t your granddad’s air guns.
In addition to significant noise reduction (hearing protection isn’t necessary when shooting Umarex air rifles) they do not kick like traditional centerfire rifles as their light recoil is more of a firm push rather than the sharp jolt common to other rifles. Moreover, air rifles are not subject to the same Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms regulations as centerfire and rimfire firearms and can be purchased direct from Umarex rather than through a Federal Firearms Licensed dealer.
The company has taken their technology to the archery market as well, offering CO2-propelled air bows that are marketed under the names AirJavelin and AirSaber. Their recent launches of the AirJavelin Pro PCP and the AirSaber Elite X2 double barrel arrow gun have been category redefining—to say nothing of looking like something out of Mad Max. The bows are powered by an onboard tank that will deliver up to 25 effective shots before needing recharge. With the air regulated to 1,500 pounds per square inch, arrows will launch at 370 feet per second, delivering plenty of energy to take deer and other game inside of 60 yards. With an over-abundance of deer in many suburban and semi-rural areas, Umarex’s air bows are finding a significant market where stealth is a requisite. The air rifles and air bows are a popular choice for vermin control anywhere you don’t want to alarm the neighbors.
As legions of hunters embrace modern air rifles, a growing list of states have created hunting seasons expressly for the guns. Moreover, Safari Club International, the global conservation and hunter advocacy leader, has recently created a new record book designation exclusively for air rifle hunters. “Giving airgunners their own category in the SCI Record Book is overdue,” said the organization in a recent press release.
And once most sportsmen and women realize they can enjoy a hunt in quiet solitude, there’s no going back.
https://www.forbes.com/sites/chrisdorsey/2022/05/12/air-rifles-continue-huntings-quiet-revolution
Browning 825 Pro Sport: A Detailed Review for the Discerning Shotgunner
The Browning 825 Pro Sport is a well-regarded over-under shotgun that occupies a sweet spot for both hunting and clay target shooting. It's designed to offer a blend of performance, reliability, and aesthetics that Browning is known for. Let's dive into the details.
Overview and Purpose
The 825 Pro Sport is built on the proven B525 action, a workhorse in the shotgun world. It's intended as a versatile gun, comfortable in the field for game birds and equally at home on the clay range. The "Pro Sport" designation indicates features geared toward competitive shooting, but without sacrificing its hunting pedigree.
Key Features and Specifications
Action: Reliable B525 Over-Under
Receiver: Steel, typically with tasteful engraving
Barrels: Back-bored, Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones
Chokes: Invector Plus flush or extended chokes (typically 5 included)
Stock: Grade 3 or higher walnut, adjustable comb options available
Trigger: Mechanical, adjustable for length of pull
Calibers: 12 gauge
Barrel Lengths: 30" or 32" (most common)
Rib: Ventilated, adjustable options available
Weight: Around 7.5-8 pounds (depending on configuration)
Modifications and Variants
While the core of the 825 Pro Sport remains consistent, here are some variations you might encounter:
Adjustable Comb: Models with adjustable combs are highly sought after for fine-tuning fit and ensuring proper eye alignment with the rib.
Adjustable Rib: Some versions feature adjustable ribs, allowing shooters to change the point of impact.
Engraving: The level of engraving can vary, from simple scrollwork to more elaborate scenes.
Wood Grade: Higher grades of walnut offer enhanced figure and aesthetics.
Design and Systems
Back-Bored Barrels and Vector Pro: These features are designed to reduce recoil and improve pattern consistency. The back-boring process increases the bore diameter slightly, while the Vector Pro lengthened forcing cones gradually transition the shot column into the barrel.
Invector Plus Chokes: Browning's Invector Plus choke system is widely respected for its versatility and consistent performance. The extended chokes provide a longer parallel section, potentially improving patterns.
Mechanical Trigger: A mechanical trigger ensures reliable operation, even with light target loads. The ability to adjust the length of pull allows for a customized fit.
Caliber and Performance
The 825 Pro Sport is primarily chambered in 12 gauge, the most popular and versatile shotgun caliber. It's capable of handling a wide range of loads, from light target loads to heavier hunting loads.
Effective Range: With appropriate chokes and loads, the 825 Pro Sport can effectively engage targets out to 40-50 yards for hunting and sporting clays.
Target Compatibility: Ideal for all clay target sports.
Hunting Applications
The 825 Pro Sport can be used for a variety of hunting applications:
Upland Birds: Excellent for quail, pheasant, grouse, and other upland species. The gun's balance and responsiveness make it suitable for quick shots in dense cover.
Waterfowl: With appropriate steel shot loads and choke selection, it can be used for ducks and geese over decoys.
Small Game: Can be used for rabbit and squirrel hunting with appropriate loads and chokes.
Performance in Different Conditions
Weather Resistance: Browning shotguns are generally well-built and can withstand typical hunting conditions. However, it's important to clean and maintain the gun regularly to prevent rust, especially in wet or humid environments.
Recoil: The back-bored barrels and Vector Pro cones help to mitigate recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods. The gun's weight also contributes to recoil reduction.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Reliable and durable B525 action
Versatile for both hunting and clay shooting
Adjustable features for a customized fit
Excellent balance and handling
High-quality construction and materials
Cons:
Can be relatively expensive compared to some other shotguns
Some shooters may find the weight to be a bit heavy for all-day hunting
Factory chokes may not be optimal for all applications
User Reviews and Common Feedback
Positive: Many owners praise the 825 Pro Sport for its smooth swing, consistent patterns, and comfortable shooting experience. The adjustable features are also highly valued.
Negative: Some users have reported minor issues with trigger creep or occasional failures to eject, but these seem to be relatively rare.
Why Choose the Browning 825 Pro Sport?
The Browning 825 Pro Sport is an excellent choice for shooters who want a versatile, high-quality over-under shotgun that can excel in both hunting and clay target sports. Its adjustable features, reliable action, and comfortable handling make it a joy to shoot. If you're looking for a gun that can do it all, the 825 Pro Sport is definitely worth considering.
Is it Right for You?
Consider it if: You want a gun that can seamlessly transition between hunting and clay shooting, value adjustability, and appreciate the quality of a Browning shotgun.
Maybe not if: You're on a tight budget or primarily need a dedicated lightweight hunting gun.
Alternatives
Beretta 686/687: A classic over-under known for its reliability and handling.
Caesar Guerini Tempio Light: A higher-end option with exceptional fit and finish.
Benelli 828U: A modern, lightweight over-under with unique features.
Final Thoughts
The Browning 825 Pro Sport strikes a good balance between a field and target gun. Its feature set makes it good for both clay target sports and hunting. #browning825
Mauser K. 8x57IS Review
As a long-time firearms enthusiast and collector, I have had the opportunity to own and shoot several rifles, and the Mauser K. 8x57IS certainly stands out among them. Here’s my honest and detailed review, including its strengths and weaknesses.
Mauser Pros:
Historical Significance: The Mauser K. 8x57IS is steeped in history. Originally designed for military use, this rifle has proven itself in various conflicts and has a respected place in firearms history. Owning one feels like possessing a piece of that legacy.
Accuracy: The K. 8x57IS is known for its remarkable accuracy. Its bolt action provides a reliable and smooth cycling experience, allowing for precise shots, even at longer distances. This makes it an excellent choice for both hunting and target shooting.
Durability: The construction of the K. 8x57IS is robust and reliable. Made with high-quality materials, it can withstand harsh conditions, making it a suitable firearm for various environments.
Caliber Performance: The 8x57IS cartridge itself offers great versatility, with a wide range of bullet weights available. Whether you’re hunting large game or enjoying a day at the range, this caliber has you covered.
Aesthetics: The design of the Mauser is iconic and aesthetically pleasing. The classic lines of the rifle and the quality wood furniture make it not only a functional tool but also a beautiful piece to display.
Mauser Cons:
Weight: One of the notable downsides of the Mauser K. 8x57IS is its weight. It can feel cumbersome, especially during long hunts or extended shooting days. Carrying it over long distances can be tiring.
Recoil: The 8x57IS cartridge, while powerful, does have noticeable recoil. This may be uncomfortable for less experienced shooters or those who prefer lighter firearms.
Cost of Ammunition: While the performance of the 8x57IS is commendable, the cost of ammunition can be higher than more common calibers. This may be a consideration for those who plan to shoot extensively or are on a budget.
Availability of Parts: Depending on where you live, finding spare parts and accessories can sometimes be a challenge since the rifle is not as common as other modern firearms.
Learning Curve: For those new to bolt-action rifles, there may be a slight learning curve in mastering the operation. It requires a different handling technique compared to semi-automatic rifles.
Conclusion:
Overall, the Mauser K. 8x57IS is a classic rifle that offers a unique combination of history, reliability, and performance. It’s an excellent choice for hunters and collectors alike, but potential buyers should be aware of its weight and recoil. If you appreciate historical firearms and value accuracy, I highly recommend giving this rifle a try.
#Mauser #8x57IS #BoltActionRifle #FirearmReview #Hunting #GunCollector #HistoricalFirearm #RifleAccuracy #ShootingSports
