The Hunter's Journal

Hottest Deer hunting product of the season

2009-11-06T14:18:00.000-08:00

Well, Knight & Hale game calls has done it again! Just when I thought that the art of Rattling Bucks couldn't be improved upon, Knight & Hale introduced the Pack Rattling System Deer call and it rocks!

This new concept in Rattling antlers has quickly become a best seller at Bass Pro Shops, surpassing most other deer calls on the market in a matter of months!

The Pack Rattling System is compact, simple to use and makes realistic sound that attracts the biggest bucks!

If your ready to up your game on your next hunting adventure for Rutting Deer, give the Knight & Hale Pack Rattling system a try!

Ballistics software for the hunter

2009-09-27T16:42:00.001-07:00

Click Here!

This highly rated application for your personal computer will help make you a much more accomplish shooter, one that is best equipped for those tough shots on Western big game!

Calculates the necessary information to turn your gun/ammo combination into a sharp shooting outfit YOU will be confident using with every shot. You will easily understand how your favorite reload or factory ammo performs out to 200 or 1000 yards using Shoot! ballistics software. Knowledge of how your gun and ammunition performs is the key to consistent, accurate shooting.

Click Here!

Fall is here, are you ready?

2009-09-03T14:18:00.000-07:00

It's time to get ready for Deer season!

If you need to replace your worn camo, or are thinking about extending your hunting season with Bow or Muzzleloader be sure to check out Bass Pro Shops hunting classic!

Be ready for the hunt early and hunt hard for the Buck of your dreams!

Technology isn't all it's cracked up to be

2009-08-11T17:00:00.000-07:00

I read an interesting anecdote the other day. Even with all of the enhancements of technology - GPS, Range finders, improved optics, better more accurate Rifles and Archery tackle, scent elimination products and more, hunter success rates still hover at something around 25% or less across the western states!!

Let's think about those statistics for a moment. What this mean is that over the past 60 years, 75% of the hunters do not fill the tag every season!

So, what are the 25% who are successful doing that the rest aren't able or willing to do?

The keys to hunter success are: Willing to hunt harder, farther and able to get the job done at the moment of truth.

Successful hunters:
1) Practice with their rifles and/or bows - alot.
2) Practice excellent woodsman ship skills.
3) Are willing to travel further, and endure more discomfort - they don't quit hunting at the end of the road.
4) Scout and pre-plan their hunting trips. Preparation is a major key to success.

Now I admit that I'm a gadget guy, probably as bad as they come. But the trophies that I've been able to harvest have all required hard work, and I actually used fairly low tech equipment and technique to accomplish this. But I still carry an updated GPS and other high tech goodies!

So, just because your cousin bought the latest super-short magnum rifle, doesn't mean he is going to automatically fill his tag. Hunting is still hunting!

Now go get ready and don't whine about it!

The Best Place For Elk Hunting in Colorado

2009-07-29T16:25:00.000-07:00

According to the Colorado Division of Wildlife, elk hunting in Colorado during 2008 across all seasons and methods of take produced an elk hunter success rate of 20%. A total of 45,271 elk were harvested in Colorado in 2008. Traditionally success rates for elk hunting in Colorado have hovered around the 25% range, so 2008 was a somewhat less productive year compared to years past.

Data regarding the 2008 hunting seasons are available. A review of the data reveal a handful of gaming units that have enjoyed a higher than average hunter success rate. Unit 61, a unit on the Western slope encompassing portions of the Uncompahgre National Forest, harvested a total of 677 elk in 2008 producing a hunter success rate of 49%. Hunter success rates were 50% in units 40 and 851. Unit 40, where 920 elk were harvested in 2008, is also on the Western slope adjacent to the Utah boarder in Mesa County. Unit 851, where 286 elk were harvested, runs along Colorado's southern boarder and is southwest of Trinidad. The highest noteworthy elk hunting success rate was 67%, found in unit 682. Unit 682 is in the south central portion of the state slightly northwest of the Great Sand Dunes National Monument.

Division of Wildlife data estimates the post 2008 elk hunting season statewide elk population to be approximately 283,210. DOW information relative to elk populations is examined with respect to herds that may traverse more than one gaming unit. With respect to the aforementioned hunting units, estimates from DOW suggest that approximately 21,430 elk are in or about unit 851. In addition, estimates show unit 61 with a herd of approximately 10,680 elk roaming through or about the area. Units 40 and 682 have markedly smaller herds, at 4400 and 300 elk respectively.

As any elk hunter will concede, if you show up in the middle of a herd of elk you will have a much easier time harvesting an elk. Inasmuch as this is true, it is also true that many other aspects of elk hunting preparation produce success. Knowing where elk are abundant and success rates are high may assist in future elk hunting success, but any astute elk hunter should be wary of the difference between the correlation of data, and its causation. There may be other circumstances inherent in some gaming units that produce higher success rates than others.

Darrel James

IronAim - Bringing Hunters and Landowners Together

Visit our original land-use site - http://www.ironaim.com

Visit our store for thousands of hunting, camping, and shooting related products - http://store.ironaim.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darrel_James

Gun cleaning 101

2009-06-18T17:14:00.000-07:00

I used to think that I did a fairly thorough job of cleaning my hunting rifles, you know after each trip to the range and then again before putting them away for the winter.

Then when Hoppes(R) came out with their Bore Snakes, I thought this is cool, I can clean three rifles in less time than it used to take me to clean just one.

Now on average I shoot about 20-25 rounds of centerfire deer caliber ammunition, 100-200 rounds of pistol ammunition and maybe another 100 rounds of rimfire each and every time I go out shooting.

Granted this isn't a lot of shooting, but over the course of a season it adds up. And after each trip to the range I faithfully clean my weapons.

Well, this year I invested in a Otis® Deluxe Millitary Elite® Cleaning System, and I have been amazed at how thorough a cleaning the Otis products provide. The tools that come with Otis system are top notch, the ability to scrub the throat and chamber as well as the bore is excellent.

The patches do require that you read the instructions and/or watch the videos that come with each kit. And it is important that you properly place the patch on the cleaning tip, in order to create the correctly sized cleaning surface for the caliber of firearm you're cleaning. Each patch provides up to six cleaning surfaces, and they do work!

Be sure and get yourself extra Otis® 100 Count All-Caliber Patches. You can also use square patches with the Otis system, you just have to follow the instructions on how to correct size them and use them. Plus you'll only get about two uses out of square cleaning patches, but it is an option that does work.

If you're looking for an excellent gun cleaning system, that is quick and fairly simple to use and that is in use by U.S. Armed Forces Worldwide check out the Otis family of gun products!

Hawken Rifle

2009-06-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

I got started in shooting muzzleloaders and then hunting with them, after a shoulder/biceps injury several years ago left me unable to shoot my Bows.

Talk about a lot of fun! Blackpowder is a bang!

I was originally interested in a Hawken style rifle so I would have a firearm that was completely legal during Oregon’s primitive seasons. Being a dedicate Elk hunter, it had to be a .50 caliber, just like Jeremiah Johnson!

I ended up trading a very fine Recurve Bow and tackle for a Hawken rifle, an inline muzzleloader and accessories.

I’ve hunted extensively with the inline during Oregon’s modern rifle hunts. And greatly enjoyed the one shot challenges.

I’ve done alot of shooting with Hawken, out to 100 yards. And this is one fine shooting rifle!

My initial trips to the range had me shooting the owners manual recommended starting loads. I found these loads of 60 grains of Pyrodex and conical bullets very mild to shoot!

Finding the rifle both accurate and pleasant to shoot – I settled on a load of 85 grains of Pyrodex behind a TC Maxi-ball. Easy to load, accurate and not bad on my sore shoulder.

I have yet to draw a muzzleloader controlled hunt tag and haven’t hunted with the Hawken yet!

This season I found a can of Triple-seven at my favorite sports shop and plan on trying this cleaner burning blackpowder substitute.

I can’t wait to take this fine Hawken Rifle to the range!

Traditions? Hawken Woodsman .50 Caliber Percussion Muzzleloader

Technorati Tags: hawken rifle,muzzloading,blackpowder hunting,elk hunting in oregon

Timney trigger works great!

2009-06-05T10:29:00.000-07:00

I was able to install the new trigger for my Savage 110 rifle, without a lot of fuss.

It installed easily, and was very easy for me to properly adjust by following the step-by-step instructions.

I have to admit that after my first outing at the range the other day, I believe the rifle is shooting better than ever!

Now if only I can hold steady enough to shoot the groups that I know this rifle is capable of!

This first groups was the initial 25 yard check shots.

This second group was from 125 yards, before I discovered that I was shooting a rifle with a broken stock! Now I’ll be replacing the stock and trying again to get sighted in for this fall!

Luckily my favorite retailer has Bell and Carlson Carbelite? Aramid/Fiberglass Rifle Stocks to fit most hunting rifles!

Technorati Tags: timney trigger,savage firearms,big game hunting oregon,home gun smithing projects,sighting in a hunting rifle

Father's Day, a sportsman's holiday!

2009-06-04T14:19:00.000-07:00

Father's Day is Sunday June 21st, in case you hadn't noticed yet.

Father's Day is a bitter sweet day for me, you see two years ago my own Father died of a heart attack on Father's Day!

He was preparing for a much anticipated three generation Colorado Elk hunt, that we had been putting off for almost five years. He was planning the trip for a Father, Son and Grandson outing. He routinely walked long distances, and swam daily. And in fact had taken up bike riding after having not done so for many years.

Unfortunately, he over exerted himself in early summer heat, and ignored warning signs that ultimately lead to his untimely death.

I owe my own loving of hunting, enjoying god's creation on the most intimate level, to my Father. It has been his one and only gift of a life time!

Father's Day is special for my son also, he was there with me, when we learned of Dad's death.

If your looking for gifts for dad this Father's Day, be sure and check out Bass Pro Shops, they have the gear for every Sportsman on your list!

Federal Firearms License

2009-05-12T17:42:00.000-07:00

I've thought about obtaining my FFL for years, but never really got around to it.

Now that I've done several of my own basic gunsmith projects - installing scopes, bore sighting scopes, glass bedding rifle stocks, installing after market triggers, installing composite stocks, reloading ammunition, patterning shotguns, and of course through gun cleaning for all of my friends and family it may be time to apply for my Federal Firearms License!

Trigger arrived, installation was simple!

2009-05-07T16:30:00.000-07:00

My Timney trigger arrived. And as advertised installation was so simple, even I could do it!

The actual install only took me about 15 minutes. I took my time, carefully following the instructions on properly adjusting the trigger, and to my delight it functions beautifully! Best of all no gunsmithing required!

I can't wait to get out to the range and sight-in and fine tune my load, scope combo!

I'll let you know how this goes too!

Custom rifles and parts upgrades

2009-05-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

I've been interested in purchasing a custom rifle for several years now, but still haven't made the leap, due to economic limiting factors! (AKA, funds lacking).

So, I decided to shop around and find that upgrade for my current hunting rifle that would 1) improve the rifles accuracy, 2) be cost effective, 3) and is something a DIY gunsmith could install without a lot of fuss.

Well over at GunBroker.com, I came across Timney triggers and after some reading, and checking into the product I decided that this would be the upgrade for my off-rack .270 rifle for this year.

I just received the trigger, and have been studying the install instructions. I'll get the rifle out of the safe tomorrow and see if it will be as simple of an install as the directions describe.

I'll keep you posted.

Great Outdoor gear at awesome savings

2009-04-22T14:15:00.001-07:00

If you’re looking for outdoor gear for this summer be sure to check out the new Altrec outlet store!

They’re a excellent company based out of Redmond Oregon. Top rated outdoor gear, fast, efficient delivery of products and A+ customer service make this company a real winner for the outdoorsman in your family!

Keeping your knife sharp, a woodsmans necessary skill

2009-04-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

I have to admit when I first started hunting I could not keep an edge on any of my hunting knives. I even ruined a knife or two trying to get them sharp enough for the hunt chores.

Eventually I found that a good quality knife and a
Lansky Sharpening System - Diamond Kit
really helped me to overcome my inability to sharpen a blade.

Ben Anton wrote an excellent article on the how to of knife sharpening, and I thought that it's worth sharing here.

Knife Sharpening How-To
By Ben Anton

Being prepared is the keystone to any successful hunting trip. That means having the right gear ready when you need it. It also means having that gear in working order for the tasks at hand. You can own the most expensive hunting knife on the market but if it is not properly sharpened, it will be useless. Knife sharpening is one of the most commonly overlooked aspects of hunting trip preparedness. With just some basic sharpening knowledge and a couple of simple tools, however, any hunter can be sure to have their knife ready.

Testing Your Blade

A number of simple tests exist to test the sharpness of your hunting knife. Some outdoorsmen test a knife's sharpness by shaving a small patch of hair on their arms or hands. This test is quick and effective but, let's be honest, a little dangerous for a novice. For those not confident that they can tell their blade is dull, there are blade edge testing kits available at through outdoor equipment retailers. These kits can be expensive.

Experienced hunters can often tell if a blade is dull just by looking at it. To visually look for dullness, hold the blade with the edge in line with a strong light source and move it back and forth a bit. If you see a reflection or glint then you have a dull blade. If all else fails, walk into your outdoor goods store and ask a professional to help you assess knife sharpness.

The Right Tools

Once you have concluded that your knife needs sharpening, you will need to get your hands on the right sharpening equipment. Sharpening stones are effective, commonly used, and come in a variety of styles and sizes. When purchasing a stone, look for one made from compounds with a relative hardness of 9 or higher. Stones made from bonded aluminum oxide or silicon carbide work very well, as does silicon carbide sandpaper glued to a wooden block or something similar.

A sharpening guide is a clamp-like tool that attaches to the blade of the knife and aids in controlling the angle of the blade. This may be helpful for notice knife sharpeners because they are the only way to guarantee an accurate sharpening angle. More advanced hunters may find them unnecessary.

Sharpening The Blade

There are two basic steps to correctly sharpening a blade. The first is to develop a burr, or, a rough, ragged edge on the surface of the blade. Once that is created, the blade then needs to be polished until the edge is smooth.

To develop a burr, first set the angle of the blade correctly and then grind one side until you have removed the old edge. Continue grinding until you can feel the burr with your thumb; it should feel jagged and serrated. Once you have a nice burr on one side, flip the blade over and raise a burr on the other. Keep in mind that some knives (ceramic and very hard steel primarily) will not raise a burr. If you've tried raising a burr on your blade without any success, you may have one of these kinds. Consult a professional for information on sharpening these blades.

Once you've raised a burr on your blade take the time to put some finishing touches on your knife by polishing the blade. There are three basic polishing strokes you can use to finish the sharpening process - on-stroke, off-stroke, or circular strokes. The off-stroke is the easiest technique for beginners. Begin to grind away the burr made by the first stone you used. The burr should gradually begin to fade. Once it is almost undetectable, switch to the circular stroke and finish grinding off the old scratch pattern. Finish up by using light strokes to get rid of the remaining burr. At this point your blade should be extremely sharp, with no burr and only micro-serrations.

Don't be afraid to ask professionals for help. Woodworkers and butchers are usually more qualified in the art of sharpening than knife makers or collectors. Ask one in your area if they can assist you or provide you with some simple techniques.

It is important for all your hunting tools to be in prime condition before you go on a trip, and your knife is no exception. With these tools and proper techniques you can effectively sharpen your knife before or during your trip and not have to worry about the problems a dull blade can cause.

Ben Anton lives in Portland, OR.
Find the best hunting equipment, including hunting Coast knives and other blades on the Coast website for camping and hunting knife information.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ben_Anton

Colorado Limited License application deadline is approaching

2009-03-29T16:06:00.000-07:00

Just a friendly reminder that if you are interested in hunting Colorado's Limited Big Game hunts that the deadline to apply is April 7th this year!

Contact the Colorado Division of Wildlife at www.wildlife.state.co.us for the latest hunting regulations and be sure to check out the updated hunt planner. There is a lot of really useful information that'll help you get the most out of your hunting trip.

The NDIS Mapit! utility looks to be an excellent tool, for helping in your scouting and locating a place to hunt that will meet your individual goals!

Tips for booking an Outfitter

2009-03-16T16:48:00.000-07:00

One of the top questions we are asked by friends and acquaintance's is “how do I find a top quality hunting guide for my next hunting trip.

This is actually a question with an easy answer but difficult to guarantee a successful outcome. One can find any number of capable hunting guides featured in the where to go section of most major outdoor magazines. You can also attend one of the large outdoor shows or banquets and get the opportunity to talk with a number of outfitters.

Keep in mind that most Outfitters only guarantee their clients the opportunity for a shot. Any Outfitter than guarantees 100% success on game harvested needs to be avoid at all cost!

The first thing you absolutely have to do is sit down and access your goals. “What do I expect from the hunting guide I will be booking my next trip with?”. Are you interested in a top quality trip, in country with trophy quality animals? Do you expect to be treated well, without having to exert undue amounts of physical stress? Would you be satisfied with a meat bull or smaller buck? Or does your trophy have to make the book for you to declare your adventure a success!

By accessing your goals and being honest with yourself you can go about finding a top quality hunting guide and booking the trip of your life with him or her.

Be sure to discuss your goals, requirements and any physical limitations with your hunting outfitter when interviewing them for a prospective booking. Also, be upfront and open if you don't want to or cannot hike for miles in search of game, let them know so that they can give you an honest assessment for you chances to succeed in their hunt area.

The fish and game and state hunter organizations should be able to direct to a list of reputable guides and outfitters for the state you intend to hunt. Check for an association membership for any hunting outfitter you're interested in booking. This won't be a guarantee, but is an excellent place to start your search.

Finally the newest method of finding a hunting guide and outfitter is enlist the aid of a booking agent. These professionals will play match maker finding you the ideal outfitter, based upon your goals and desires. They may be the best way to go for most of us!

One of the best booking agents I've found is Steve West with Steve's Outdoor Adventures. They're located in Pendelton, OR and really know their stuff!

If you're looking for an application service to assist you with everything from where to apply for tags, which units and maybe even providing the Outfitting & Guiding be sure to consider United States Outfitters, they were one of the first to offer a Professional Licensing Program and have the experience to help you find the trophy of your lifetime!

With the Spring deadlines approaching for most of the Western states controlled hunt draws now is the time to make decisions on which state, what area and which Outfitter you want to use for this falls hunt!

Be safe and go prepared to enjoy the outdoors!

Top Ten Tips for Turkey hunters

2009-03-08T17:53:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for the Spring Turkey seasons to kickoff! This is great news, since it means winter is just about over!

Hunter for Turkey is a great break from the Winter down time and if you're like me watching reruns of hunting shows on the Outdoorchannel gets old pretty quick.

Make no mistake about it, Turkey hunting is a real challenge and you have to be a dedicated Turkey hunter to be consistently successful!

1) Find Birds to hunt. To hunt Turkey you have to hunt an area where there are birds. Check with your state's Fish and Game department, hunter's associations and local sports shops for tips on where to start.

2) Scouting is a must for success on Turkey. You'll have to locate where the birds roost, feed and strut. Start by checking for suitable habitat using your topographic maps of the area(s) you've preselected, then get out for some boots on the ground scouting.

3) Learn about Turkey. Study their habits and habitat, you'll gain invaluable knowledge on how and where to find these birds.

4) Practice calling about a month before the season opens. Don't educate the birds on opening day. Be smart and always setup prior to calling to the Turkey.

5) Imitate a hen when your calling. You want to attract the Tom's! Carry and use more than one or two calls and types of calls, this will give you variety and the ability to hopefully pull in a hung up Tom into range.

6) You have to be able to identify the Male Turkeys. Proper game identification is critical. Tom's weigh up to 25 pounds, sporting beards and spurs. There heads will sport bright colors of Red, White and Blue. Don't forget Tom's will strut and gobble.

7) Choose the right shotgun and shells for the job. Turkeys are tough to bring down. Used a tight choked 12 gauge shotgun with 4 to 6 shot size. Be sure to pattern your shotgun before heading out for the hunt.

8) Be safe. Turkey hunting can be dangerous; hunters are totally camoflauged and calling to attract birds. Where hunter Orange when moving between stands and carefully follow all the rules for a safe hunt.

9) Wild Turkey is great table fare. They taste better than domestic birds and don't have any gamy taste. Aim for the head, so you'll avoid pellets in the meat of your trophy. After you tag your bird it's important to cool them quickly and completely to ensure the best flavor. Roasting your bird at 350 until the meat is 165 degrees fahrenheit is the most recommended method of cooking Wild Turkey.

10) Consider joining the National Wild Turkey Federation. They are a private non-profit organization supporting Turkey and Turkey habitat in your state!

Oregon Turkey Hunting, ODFW, Turkey hunter tips

Countering the winter time blues!

2009-03-02T17:09:00.001-08:00

If you are a passionate hunter like me and don't have the time to get out and hunter predators, or shoot competition, what can we do to keep busy until the next hunt?

Over the years I've realized that Mule Deer and Elk hunting are my passion. I just seem to be too busy to squeeze in more hunting or even fly fishing! Running a small business, raising a family, trying to stay fit for my next foray into the mountains. It all takes time!

So, this winter I've been enjoying the Outdoor Channel, hunting DVD's, the sportsman shows, reading hunting magazines, all of the usual stuff.

I've also been busy doing some very specific hunting prep, that is best accomplished during the off season.

You see, every year I start a list of the stuff to do for hunting season. I check out the new hunting regulations, pick out my top controlled hunt choices and begin thinking about the fall hunts.

I also go through my hunting pack, and make sure everything is clean, stocked up and if I need to buy any new gear it gets on my spring shopping list.

I'll swap out batteries, energy bars and the like prior to my initial scouting trips, but I try and make sure the pack is ready well before the first trip afield.

I also take my GPS and Compass out when walking the dog or biking. I'll make sure they are working correctly and that I remember how to use them! I'll clean my optics. Make sure that I have several boxes of ammo for the fall hunts. And then I'll take my favorite hunting rifle out of the rack and give it a very through cleaning.

I've found that winter, after football season, on a Saturday afternoon is a great time to give a hunting rifle a through cleaning. Of course it was cleaned after season. I'm talking about completely removing the powder and copper residue build up from inside the bore. You now that whole soak it and scrub it out til the blue color is gone from the patches!

Well, it actually isn't a bad job with the right equipment and a little patience. You'll need a quality cleaning rod or two. Jags, patches, a cleaning station, silicon gun cloth and rags in addition to a place to work. Make sure the patches and jags are for your caliber of firearm.

I've found that the Hoppes Elite line of cleaning products work most excellent and really are easy to work with.

I won't bore you with the whole process - be sure to follow the manufacturers instructions for your solvents and copper remover and take your time. That is the beauty of doing this now, there is no rush, the WEC won't be on TV until Sunday nite, so you can really concentrate on giving your rifle the once over it probably really needs!

Remember shoot straight!

Boone & Crockett Club confirms Utah's Spyder Bull as New World Record

2009-01-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

When Denny Austad harvested the amazing Spyder Bull on September 30th I'm sure he did not realize what an amazing feat he accomplished and controversy he created.

The Idaho hunter has been credited with the New Non-Typical World's Record Yellowstone Elk. By definition this bull was taken via fair chase. But the Elk is not an every hunter's dream trophy.

It seems that this particular bull was taken by literally the highest bidder and a hunter willing to pay for the services of Mossback Guides and Outfitters to spot and track the monster bull.

The tag was a coveted Utah Governors tag that sold for $170,000.00 at auction. Austad was able to legally hunt any season, with any legal weapon for the prized bull.

Austad booked his hunt with Mossback Guides and Outfitters after they showed him video of the amazing 500 inch Bull Elk! Mr. Ausatd paid over $40,000.00 for his hunt and by all rights he definitely got his money worth!

The controversy is the fact that a do-it-yourself hunter, hunting on public land with an attainable tag has almost not chance of harvesting an elk of this quality.

It has been said that this is the best Bull money can buy! With a net B&C score of 478 5/8 it is indeed a modern marvel!

Western Big Game drawing Deadlines

2009-01-06T17:15:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that with the new year everyone interested in hunting out West needs to be sure and get their controlled hunt apps in before the deadlines.

Each Western state has a different date for applying for the draw. Be sure you check the latest hunting regs and website info for the states(s) you're interested in applying.

Wyoming has one of the earliest dates; Elk applications have to be submitted by Jan. 31st!

Colorado has a deadline of April 7th for Deer & Elk.

Oregon's deadline is May 15th for Big Game applications.

Montana has a deadline of June 2nd for Deer, Elk and Antelope.

Idaho has tags available over the counter in some units, but these are on a first come, first serve basis.

The bottom line is you need to be sure an plan your hunting season early enough in the year that you don't miss the drawing deadlines!

Primitive weapons do indeed work well!

2008-12-13T22:49:00.000-08:00

OutdoorLife - Muzzleloading Dangerous Game

As we can clearly see Jim Shockey has harvested several nice trophies of the dangerous game variety!

Several hunters from this Outdoor life collection have bagged their game with sidelock muzzzleloaders adding even more to their challenge!

For more hunting opportunity many hunters are trying and truly enjoying hunting with blackpowder guns!

Some of the absolute best hunting for Elk in the Rut can be experienced while hunting during a muzzleloader season. Be sure and check the regulations for the state you are interested in hunting and give shooting a front stuffer a try!

Gift Ideas for the Sportsman on your list!

2008-12-01T13:03:00.000-08:00

If you're looking for ideas for the Sportsman on your shopping list, check out these Cyber Monday deals for the ultimate in savings now!

Do Deer see in color, or is it a scam to get your hard earned money?

2008-11-14T16:29:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading an interesting article on how Deer can actually see color. I think every hunter has know that Deer see much better than we've been lead to believe.

I have strongly believed that using UV Killer to wash my hunting clothes is not only cheap insurance against being spotted by the Buck of a lifetime, it just makes great sense as part of my personal hunting equipment prep work.

I personally believe that a lot of the scent killing, clothing systems and odor elimination products are a bunch crap for the average hunter to waste his money on. After all hunters of years past were very successful wearing wool clothes and playing the wind.

What's changed? Today's hunter has become too reliant on technology. The hunter has to remember that it is the hunt that is important not the how.

Woodsman ship, skill and the ability to hunt is what makes hunting fun and worthwhile. The more time and money that is wasted on non-essential crap takes away the primal reason of the hunt from Man!

Remember be a predator and hunt your way, not some marketing geeks who wants to sell you the non-essentials!

Record Book Bull comes from unlikely place!

2008-09-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

Vancouver Washington hunter Dan Agnew got lucky twice; The first time was winning the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation sponsored Washington State Governor's Elk Tag. The second time this year was when he harvested what should be the new Washington State Record Book Non-Typical Bull Elk!

The Rocky Mountain 9x10 Bull Elk green scores 449 Boone & Crockett Points and was taken with a .30-378 Weatherby Magnum in WMU 162 near Dayton, Washington. The 250 yard shot anchored the Big Bull quickly.

This area in Eastern Washington is know to hold large racked Bull Elk, with another 8x8 Bull reportedly hang in the same basin that'll score better than the Agnew bull.

The only downside to this hunt was the tag cost Mr. Agnew $65,000!

Where to Hunt on Federal Land - Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado

2008-09-11T12:46:00.000-07:00

Hunting is a favorite hobby of many enthusiasts. If you are like many other hunters, you are looking for new, unique, and exciting places to hunt. In this article, we will discuss different federal land areas that allow hunting. However, it is important to remember that each state has their own sets of rules and regulations when it comes to hunting on their land. This land is typically designated as a wildlife refuge therefore; there are many laws that protect certain species of animals.

Here in this article, we will cover the areas of Montana, Wyoming, and Colorado.

Montana

Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge encompasses nineteen square miles of land or 12,383 acres. Located in the Great Plains, in Great Falls, Montana it is situated between Great Falls and the Rocky Mountains. The refuge, opened in 1961, provides a stopping ground for at least 199 different species of birds and other animals. Different weather seasons bring different types of birds. For example, in the winter it is not uncommon to see snowy owls, hawks, and chickadees.

The Benton Lake National Wildlife Refuge does allow hunting for upland birds and waterfowls. Specific areas are hunting areas and hunters are only allowed in these designated areas. Hunting is only allowed for species such as sharp-tailed grouse, ring-necked pheasants, gray partridge, tundra swans, mergansers, coots, geese, and ducks. You may not hunt for any other species of wildlife such as skunk, raccoon, fox, coyote, or rabbits. To hunt, you must only use non-toxic shots and respect all boundaries of the refuge.

Wyoming

In Wyoming, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is the federal land designated for protecting and providing habitat for several different species of animals. With 26,400 acres of land, it is accessible to the Green River. Established in 1965, the Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is not only home to many fabulous wildlife species, but also a very popular tourist attraction with more than 10,000 visitors each year. Early pioneers, fur trappers, and Indian tribes used this area long ago, which leaves a rich cultural and historic history.

The Seedskadee National Wildlife Refuge is home to at least 220 different bird species, as well as many mammals. Some species that can be seen at the refuge include ducks, sage grouse, bald eagles, trumpeter swans, moose, bobcat, mule deer, pronghorn, porcupine, and coyote. Hunting is allowed for waterfowl, sage grouse, mule deer, and antelope.
Colorado

The Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge is located in Alamosa, Colorado. Located in the San Luis Valley, this refuge is wetlands that covers more than 11,000 acres of land. There are many different species of bird and wildlife available for viewing at the refuge. As with many other wildlife refuges, the birds and animals you see at any given time, depends on the time of year. Many species of birds visit at various times of the year, usually defined by the seasons, summer, spring, winter, and fall.

To hunt at the Alamosa National Wildlife Refuge you are required to have a hunting permit, this is issued by the state at various different locations. Aside from the permit, you will also have to have any licenses that are required at the state and federal level. If any stamps and validations are required, you should be sure to have those as well. You should make note that the Colorado law prohibits the use of any handguns or rifles. You may only use non-toxic shots to hunt and lead shots are illegal to possess or use during hunting.

Hunting in every state is different and each state has their own specific rules and regulations. It is important to learn about these before you go hunting so you can be sure to abide and follow all rules and regulations. The internet can be a great sources for determining what is allowed and what is not in each area. Consult with the specific federal parks if you have any questions about their hours of operation, season opening, rules on weaponry, and ammunition.

Most of all, enjoy your time hunting and enjoy the wildlife at the same time. While hunting may be your biggest love, you should take a moment to view all that nature has to offer while at any of these refuges as well. Each one has become a landmark for many different species of wildlife, some endangered and some threatened.

Scott peters is an avid outdoorsman, hunter, and Leupold scope dealer. To learn more about Leupold Mk 4 MR/T rifle scopes please go to Leupold Mk 4 MR/T.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Scott_Peters