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Ammo Size Does Matter!
Choose the Proper Weapon!
It goes without saying that hunting products can make or break the hunt. The rifle is the most common type weapon used for hunting; it gives you the long range that’s normally desired. Optional weapons include shotguns, handguns and bows; but, still, the weapon of choice is a long gun (rifle). However, it is super critical that the choice of weapon you use has the capability of killing the game you’re hunting.
Gun sizes are measured in caliber, which is expressed either in inches or millimeters and indicates the diameter of the bullet. The bigger the gun/ammo; the more power it carries, but the length of the barrel will determine its range. As an example
- Small Game – .22 caliber (long rifle (5.56 mm)), used for small animals such as rabbits or birds.
- Multipurpose – .30 caliber, such as a 30-06 (7.62mm), used to hunt everything from a varmint to bigger game (deer, elk)
- Medium to Large Game – The .35, .357, or .38 caliber rounds are more commonly found in hand guns. There are a few long guns in this size; most common is a .35 caliber. It fires a round equivalent to a 9mm.
- Very Large Game – These large Ammunition rounds include .44, .45 caliber and up. They’re commonly found in handguns but also some long guns and are used to bring down bear, wildcats or moose.
Outdoor Protection!
Even with "Camo"!
Gun Cases are important to all gun owners. A good quality case will allow you to transport your guns without fretting their safety. There are a number of different type gun cases made from a variety of materials including plastic, leather, aluminum and others that in-part combine these materials as-well-as other components.
However, the main aim for most gun cases is to be rugged and provide maximum protection for its content. Your consideration should include:
- Get a case that fits your gun. It should not be too loose but considered a firm fit.
- If you travel with your guns, you might give thought to cases that disguise their content.
- I would recommend a hard gun case with locks for gun owners who are also parents of young children.
A Look At The Past!
Muzzle Loading Rifle!
One of my proudest possessions is a T/C Hawken, .50 Caliber Flint Lock Rifle. It was given to me while I was in the US Armed Services as a going-away present. This nostalgic firearm is every bit as fine as the one my great, great granddad carried when being a part of the Mormon settlement movement to the badlands of southeastern Utah.
Today, this famous replica captures the romance of the original, while still being manufactured to standards of a quality control that was unheard-of in the 1800’s. This weapon, like other Thompson Center muzzle-loading rifles, gives new meaning to the label of being “Made in America”. It does maintain an expected authenticity while quietly assuring us of the quality that we have grown to expect.
Get The Most From It!
Fun Time!
We can all take lessons on how to get the “Most” from your Outdoor Recreation Equipment. There is not a lot of science involved, just a whole lot of common sense. As your parents used to say “never put yourself in a corner” or “close that door”, but stay on your feet and remain in control of your mental well-being.
- Bye Quality Gear – Don’t confuse(quality) with purchase price. Ask friends/experts and research the product through appropriate consumer advocates. Look for the best quality considering what’s available and the price you can pay.
- Get What You Need – There’s a fine line between need and want. However, it is better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it! Put some thought into it; in most places, you’ll always want your rain gear with you but might not need it.
- Take Care of It – One of the most important considerations. If you don’t religiously take care of it , it might fail when most needed. Depending on the circumstances, this could be the difference between a good/bad experience or worse yet – life/death. Folks, it’s not a game, so don’t play around with it.
- Storage – Organize and if possible get it up off the floor. Pre-storage should include a serviceability check. Get rid of those things that can’t be fixed and/or don’t work properly.
Being able to go on a camping trip/outdoor activity knowing that you have the recreation gear needed, and that it’s in good working order will set the tone for the entire trip. It will not only give participants peace of mind, but a care-free confidence that everything is going to be fine and fun filled.
Shopping On-line!
Convenient!
We have a tendency to shy-away from things that are unknown or we don’t understand. I for one went into the electronic age dragging my feet and screaming/hollering all the way. But, the more I got into it, the more I realized its true merits. This includes researching and shopping for things on the Internet. If your intent is to purchase a quality item at the lowest price, you should do your research on the Internet.
There are many Internet search engines (Google, Bing, etc.) that will help to simplify the buying process. They will assist in developing the data needed to determine product quality, as-well-as the information required for cost analysis. It has been my experience that prices on-line are normally a little cheaper than like items bought at the corner retail store. If it is a high dollar item you‘re purchasing, the tax savings alone could save you a bundle.
One of the nice things about shopping on-line is that the items are normally sent to your front door. Shopping for things like camping gear can be both fun and educational. If you are a show-me person, many times there will be video tapes/subject experts showing and further explaining the product.
Know Your Deer!
A Beautiful Muley!
In North America, there are essentially two native species of deer. These are the Mule and Whitetail species. The Mule deer is bigger than the Whitetail, a grayish color but readily distinguishable by large mule type ears. The Whitetail deer is reddish brown in color but with the named sake “white tail” when up and exposed.
There are many folk who will say that there are more than two species: like the Black-tail deer found in the Pacific coastal area, the Sitka deer in Alaska, the Coues deer of the American southwest, and the Florida Key deer. But, Scientist’s claim that these deer are not separate species but rather off-shoots derived from the inter-breeding of the Mule and Whitetail species.
Whitetail deer are most abundant in the eastern U.S. but can be found in all contiguous 48 states. The Mule deer is a creature of the American West. It enjoys a range that extends from Alaska , down into Mexico and from the Pacific Coast eastward to a north/south line angling from Hudson Bay (Canada) down through the middle of Texas.
Whether it’s a Muley or a Whitetail, deer are deer. All have very keen senses of smell, hearing, and vision. To get a trophy, you must have the proper hunting gear, a “true” hunting spirit, and dedication of purpose – Good Luck!
Camping Gear Replacement Items!
Perfect!
I’m in the process of doing my end-of-season camping gear inventory. Inventory reflects that there are several items that need to be replaced. This includes a tent (4-5 person), a couple battery operated lanterns, and possibly a new 4-burner stove (propane). Total cost of these items will be several hundred dollars. However, being a prudent shopper, I want both quality and savings.
As Granddad used to say, there has got to be “method too this madness. You don’t go food shopping when you’re hungry”. The same principle applies when buying camping gear. You need to first determine exactly what you want as compared with the maximum price you can afford. This preliminary research can be done by going to a local sporting-goods store or referring to the respective Manufacturer’s website.
Experience has shown that bargains in camping gear can be obtained but you need to do some leg work. Once you have determined the item wanted (can afford) by Nomenclature (name), Manufacturer, and Model Number – you can go-out with confidence and buy the item needed. Whether it be a seasonal sale at the local sporting goods store or a reputable on-line shopping site, you are prepared to make item price comparisons. Make sure the prices compared include taxes/shipping and handling.
Ammo Organization!
Keep Ammo Organized, Clean, and Dry!
Much has been said about the storage of ammunition. This last fall, I went to my hunting buddy’s house to coordinate an upcoming hunt. He took me out to his utility shed where he kept his weapons, ammo, and hunting paraphernalia. It was actually pretty neat – lights, running water, and a big work area. However, I did notice that he had ammo scattered all over the place. Some were in boxes, some in #10 cans, and some even loose. I couldn’t help but comment; so, the subsequent result was a discussion on the virtues of proper ammunition storage.
We determined that the service life of ammunition could be for a very long time if properly stored, inspected periodically, and maintained. Every 6-10 months, ammo should be inspected for cleanliness/corrosion. If corroded, clean with a small amount of steel or copper wool and oil lightly. If ammo is pitted, dispose of it.
As implied, the biggest problem with ammo storage is moisture. Water-proof ammo boxes are ideal. Try and keep cartridges in the original packing. If stored in wooden boxes, or a metal ammo can – throw-in a couple dehumidifiers for good measure. The keys to proper storage are:
- Inspect periodically;
- Provide needed maintenance;
- Keep Dry !!
Muzzleloaders Provide a Link to the Past!
Link to the Past!
The muzzle-loader – at least in a hunting context – is sometimes thought of as an archaic weapon. Even if this is the case, the front-loading process is part of the gun’s unique charm. These weapons are loaded in much the same manner as a cannon in that the gun powder is poured loosely, followed by the ammunition and then a form of wadding, which is sometimes lubricated.
Muzzleloading rifles are especially coveted by collectors and hobbyists who utilize the guns for target shooting, hunting and even historical reenactments. The precise time-frame of muzzle-loader season differs from state to state, but it generally comes before traditional rifle season. Whether used for sport or simply appreciated as antiques, these guns remain relevant in an ever changing world.
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