5 Best Binoculars for Hunting

For some hunters, the idea of carrying along with a pair of binoculars just seems like overkill. After all, when you’re already spending time and money for licenses and permits, weapons, ammo, and all the other things you absolutely must-have for the hunt, why complicate things by searching for the best binoculars for hunting?

Here’s the deal. If you enjoy staring at obscure objects for long periods of time in hopes that they might be game, rather than brush, there’s no need to bring along binoculars.

If you have no interest in determining the size and quality of a distant animal before it’s time to shoot, you shouldn’t need them either.

Also, if you get a thrill from searching endlessly for your downed prey and don’t like making things easy for yourself, then, by all means, forget to bring along binoculars.

Binoculars for hunting

If, on the other hand, you can see the benefit of magnifying your vision to prevent wasted energy and lost time, chances are you’ll eventually join the ranks of hunters who consider their binoculars to be almost as critical to their hunting enjoyment as their weapons are.

The 5 Best Binoculars For Hunting On The Market

Not All Binoculars Are Created Equal

If you’ve ever shopped for binoculars, you’ve likely discovered that it’s not just a matter of picking out a cool pair that isn’t too expensive.

Binocular strengths and functions vary every bit as much as weapon strengths and purposes, and you really need to know what you’re looking for before you ever start shopping.

In general, the most important factors that will determine which kind of binoculars you need are: what time of day you hunt and what your surroundings will be.

  • For daytime hunting, you’ll be fine using compact, lightweight binoculars.
  • For dim light hunting, you’ll need larger binoculars that offer greater lighting.
  • For hunting in flat or unwooded areas, you’ll appreciate high magnification.
  • For hunting in wooded or brushy areas, you’ll prefer a lower magnification.

How to Decipher All the Numbers

If you’re like many people, you may take a look at all the technical specs and feel totally overwhelmed. Which is better? 10×50? 7×35? Which number is more valuable, and will one cost me more than another?

Really, it isn’t as complicated as it seems. Here, allow us to help:

The first number you’ll see tells you how many times the view will be magnified. A 7x or 8x magnification is perfect for most woodland hunters, while a larger magnification like 10x will be better for hunters in open areas where trees won’t obstruct the view and prey isn’t as likely to be lost amid brush.

The second number deals with the size of the objective lens – that’s the big lens at the front of the binoculars. The larger this lens is, the more light will be allowed into the binoculars. While this really doesn’t affect the magnification of the view, it can make a huge difference in your ability to see in dim light.

Since larger objective lenses obviously require larger binoculars, if you plan to do much hunting early in the morning or late in the evening, you’ll want to steer clear of compact binoculars to ensure you’ll have enough light to see through the lenses.

Eye relief

Not to be mistaken for some kind of spiffy cure for sore eyes, “eye relief” deals with the physical proximity from the outermost curve of your eye to the eyepiece lens. While this is a feature that most often affects those who wear glasses, it’s important to at least be aware that binoculars are designed to be held at a certain distance from your eyes.

While most binoculars range from 14mm-20mm eye relief, most people don’t have the ability to measure exactly how far their pupil is from the eyepiece. Still, it’s very easy to tell if you’re holding the binoculars too close or too far—you simply won’t be getting a clear view that fills the lenses.

When you are too close to the eyepiece, the perfect circle of magnified vision will be obstructed at the edge by a shifting crescent of shadow as you look around. If you see this, simply pull back from the binoculars or adjust the eyecups so that they rest against your face comfortably without cutting out part of the view.

If you are too far from the eyepiece, you’ll see a fading, or vignetting, of the edge of the view. Where you should have a sharp circle of vision, you’ll see a fuzz that grows the further back you pull.

Most binoculars are equipped with soft eyecups to compensate for the eye relief distance. If you wear glasses, chances are you won’t need the eyecups at all, but you can just let the distance from your glasses to your eyes make up for the eye relief proximity.

Other Factors in Binocular Function

While magnification and lighting are by far the most important elements in choosing your binoculars, there are several other factors that can definitely impact the quality of your vision when you’re hunting using binoculars.

Stability of view

Although many people assume that higher magnification is always better, the truth is that higher magnifications come with some serious drawbacks. Not only do they restrict the field of view so that you can see a much smaller area, albeit at a farther distance; they also result in very unsteady vision.

Every twitch and tremor is magnified much greater with high magnification binoculars, so unless you have a very steady hand or a very handy tripod, you’ll want to limit the magnification you choose for your hunting binoculars – even if you have money to burn. Again, this is a case of quality over quantity. Sure, the idea of an insane magnification is cool, until you try and focus on something that is moving—or even something that is still while you’re swaying in the nice light breeze of your tree stand.

Center resolution

Depending on the quality of your binoculars, the center resolution or clarity of your view will vary dramatically. Of course, this is much less of a problem for binoculars than it is for cameras, where every detail matters.

For hunting purposes, it’s not such a big deal if your binoculars can’t get the perfect detail of that distant cardinal’s plumage; just so you can see that the buck up ahead really is a fourteen-pointer.

Field curvature

This is a quirk of certain binoculars that may or may not matter to you, but for some cheaper binoculars, lines and objects may appear curved and distorted at the edges of the picture. Higher-end optics tend to eliminate this problem, but depending on how much you have to spend and how picky you are, this distortion may not be worth worrying over.

Edge sharpness

Since the lenses of binoculars are curved, it’s important to understand that only the center of the view will be seen in clear focus. Still, the higher quality your binoculars, the more likely it will be that the sharp focus extends to more than just dead center. You get what you pay for, but there are extremes on both ends of that spectrum—trying to find the warm happy place in the middle is what we’re here to help you with.

Brightness and contrast

The higher-grade your lenses, the better brightness and contrast you can expect from your binoculars. This can make a difference in autumn when so many colors are similar, or for folks who are colorblind. Being able to clearly pick out nuances in the field of view can be a great advantage.

Chromatic aberration

Although it really has nothing to do with your ability to see your prey, you should know that lower-end optics can distort the values of your subjects and cast them in slightly untrue colors. Again, for many hunters this probably isn’t worth the much higher price tags that more reliable optics provide; still, it’s a good thing to be aware of before you make your selection—if nothing else you’re now a more informed buyer.

Color tone

For those who really want to get picky, it should be noted that some binoculars can cast a warm or cool tone to the picture. Really, though, this isn’t usually a big deal to most hunters, and unless you plan to use your binoculars for more than just hunting, it’s hardly worth noting.

Outdoorhill Recommendations for Hunting Binoculars

With so many differences in binocular strengths and qualities, deciding to buy a pair of binoculars is only the first step toward maximizing your hunting experience. Here are some helpful reviews to show you a few of the best binoculars for hunting on the market.

Bushnell Binoculars

  • Specification: 10×42
  • Cost: $200-$400
  • Color: Realtree Camo
  • Weight: 1.57 lb.

If you’re looking for a quality pair of binoculars perfect for wide-open spaces, chances are you’ll enjoy the many features of the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binoculars. With high magnification, they’re perfect for spotting that solitary mountain chamois or that herd of Arctic muskox on the wide Alaskan tundra.

Things We Liked

  • Adjustable dual focus if your eyes have a slightly different vision
  • Smoothly rotating center focus knob
  • Includes sturdy carrying case, easily disconnected neck strap, cleaning cloth, custom binocular harness, and microfiber storage bag
  • Excellent image quality
  • Waterproof/fogproof
  • Lightweight
  • Company guaranteed

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Objective lens covers are easy to lose
  • Carrying case is bulky

There’s plenty to love about the Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Roof Prism Binoculars. Of course, they wouldn’t be the best suited for Eastern whitetail hunting, especially when 10x magnification will afford you nothing but a closeup view of a single tree trunk. In a case like that, you’d be much better served with the next pair of high-end binoculars.


Nikon Binoculars

  • Specification: 8×42
  • Cost: $300-$350
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 1.34 lb.

For hunters who desire clarity and high-quality optics, the Nikon 7576 MONARCH5 Binoculars are a great choice. With its wide field of view and excellent lighting specifications, it’s a great choice for deer hunters who spend a lot of time in the woods, often in low-light situations.

Things We Liked

  • Lightweight design
  • Excellent field of view
  • Comfortable eye relief
  • Permanently attached lens covers
  • Sharp, brilliant image quality
  • Crisp focus adjustment
  • Waterproof/fogproof

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Eyepiece caps fall off easily
  • Soft case doesn’t protect binoculars from moisture or falls

For hunters who aren’t that concerned with pinching pennies, the Nikon 7576 MONARCH5 Binoculars offer top-of-the-line precision and image quality without completely breaking the bank. Of course, for hunters who prefer to pass on some of the high definition to keep their hunting habit within their budget, the next couple of binoculars may fit the bill even better.


Nikon Aculon A211 Binoculars

  • Specification: 10×50
  • Cost: $90-$120
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 2 lbs.

For hunters who are looking for affordable binoculars that get the job done, the Nikon Aculon A211 Binoculars are an outstanding choice. Although the image quality isn’t at the level of some of the higher-priced optics, many hunters will be perfectly satisfied by the completely acceptable image clarity of this affordable design.

Nikon Aculon A211 Binoculars

Things We Liked

  • Generous eye relief
  • Smooth adjustments
  • Wide range and impressive clarity
  • Multi-coated lens
  • Rubber coating offers good grip
  • Aspherical lensing provides a flat field of view

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Not fogproof or waterproof
  • Slight chromatic aberration
  • Some curvature of field when not in perfect focus

With its 10x magnification, it’s important to remember that the Nikon Aculon A211 Binoculars are better suited for wide-open spaces than for tree stands and turkey blinds. Also, the lighting for these binoculars won’t be as great as it would be with the next pair of binoculars.


Celestron Binoculars

  • Specification: 7×50
  • Cost: $35-$40
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 2 lbs.

Perfect for deer hunters or anyone else who needs a wide field of view and plenty of low-light visibility, the Celestron 71198 Cometron Binoculars offer adequate magnification at a great price. Not only are these great hunting binoculars, but they also work well for stargazing on the way back to the truck with your harvested deer.

Celestron Binoculars

Things We Liked

  • Crisp, clear images
  • Impressive, wide field of view
  • Strong light-gathering capabilities
  • Multi-coated optics offer excellent contrast and resolution for the money
  • Sturdy aluminum housing
  • Quite affordable
  • Minimal shakiness

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Less magnification
  • No tripod connection
  • Occasionally, double vision may occur if binoculars are not aligned properly

If you’re looking for affordable binoculars that work well with shaky hands, dim lighting, and obstructed views, the Celestron 71198 Cometron Binoculars are an excellent choice. If, on the other hand, you would do better using a smaller, more compact pair of binoculars, check out the next review.


Bushnell Compact Roof Prism Binoculars

  • Specification: 8×25
  • Cost: $40-$70
  • Color: Black
  • Weight: 0.75 lb.

Sometimes it makes sense to keep things simple. For hunters who prefer a pair of binoculars that can fit on their belt loops, the Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Compact Roof Prism Binoculars combine quality optics, convenient portability, and affordability in one lightweight package. They’d be great for turkey hunters or others who don’t need low-light capabilities; with the smaller objective lens size, these are much better suited to daytime use.

Bushnell Binoculars

Things We Liked

  • Extremely lightweight and compact
  • 100% waterproof
  • Exceptionally clear optics
  • Nitrogen purged to prevent fogging
  • Multi-coated optics
  • Non-slip rubber exterior
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Sturdy nylon case with belt loop

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Slight chromatic aberration
  • Small case requires you to fold them down while carrying them, requiring you to readjust focus each time
  • Less lighting capacity

For daytime hunters who appreciate the convenience, these Bushnell H2O Waterproof/Fogproof Compact Roof Prism Binoculars are a great buy.


Related Products:

Binocular HarnessHousing your binoculars using this Binocular Harness keeps them safe from the elements while trying to keep them close at hand is essential when you are in the field. The vortex glass pak binocular harness will do just that. It fits several full-size binoculars, yet keeps them snug and secure the mesh edge pockets hold calls, a lens pen, and other compact objects needing quick access.

 

Cell Phone Adapter MountGet Your mobile phone into a video camera and take images in distance. Discover the nature of the world easily through your mobile screen. Here comes Gosky Cell Phone Adapter Mount for optical devices.

 

Blocks Glare, Improves Visual AcuityBino Bandit will fit all binoculars. Blocks Glare, Improves Visual Acuity is made to be comfy, they are engineered to flex fit around the eye-cups, sealing out wind and normal light. To use the Bino Bandit, just stretch out the flexible neoprene around each eyepiece and tighten down for a excellent fit.

The Very Best Binoculars for Hunting of Them All

Although it’s clear that all binoculars are better suited for some purposes than they are for others, the best all-around binoculars, in our opinion, are the Celestron 71198 Cometron Binoculars. While it’s true that they don’t provide near the magnification that some of the others do, we think that the 7×50 specifications allow for the greatest flexibility.

  1. These binoculars offer great visibility whether it’s light or dark.
  2. The low magnification means that shakiness and loss of the intended subject is much less likely.
  3. These binoculars are an excellent deal.
  4. The field of view is superb, making it much easier to find your subject and keep it in view.
  5. They’re great for more than just hunting. Stargazers and birdwatchers in the family will also enjoy these binoculars whenever you’re willing to share.

We hope you’ve learned something new about how binoculars work, and on top of that, we hope you’ll be confident when decided which binoculars are right for you. Whatever optics you choose, we know you’ll remember to view the great outdoors with respect, awe, and gratitude. Happy hunting!

The Important Factors That Will Affect Your Shooting

Shooting for hunting a whitetail is very easy if you know how to shoot. However, there are many factors that will affect your shooting. Sometimes, your long-time experience, skill, and accuracy can’t give you the proper way to shoot. In fact, the situation will also affect shooting, and this will always provide you a good or bad direction.

This is really important to understand, what extremes conditions like temperature, altitude, and humidity affect shooting? Today, we are here to discuss those extreme situations that affect your shooting. When you have an idea about those extremes, you can easily deal with the situation and take a decision accordingly.

Extreme Cold

This is very tough to deal with low temperatures, especially for the young and teenage hunters. This is really harmful and sometimes, crazy to hunt at below 10-degree temperature.

However, hunting in the cold season is a very good option if you are in North America, looking for elk or deer to hunt. In this case, you will need to degrease all the parts of your rifle and ammunition properly. Otherwise, you can’t get properly worked rifles for hunting. However, the crucial of the rifles and ammunition will depend on the cold temperature.

deer hunting cold

Most of the rifle becomes lack function when it towards zero. In this case, using bolt hunting rifles is the best way for hunting. Most of the time, the rifles are very easy to degrease and do not need lubricant to work properly. You will need to strip it down after you remove the bolt. If you can’t do it, you will need to degreasing solvent.

Soaking the AR rifles are very easy, but other rifles are very difficult to fix them. You will need to finish the soak the rifles in order to avoid any type of damage of the rifles.

You should put a strip of tape over the muzzle of the rifle in order to keep it good. Otherwise, snow could damage the muzzle for giving you accuracy. Moreover, the temperature will affect the rifle’s cartridge and its distance of shooing. For that reason, you will need to know the proper science, the more temperature, the more drop-down after shooing.

Effect of Heat

Heat temperature is the exact opposite result of the extreme cold effects. Therefore, you will always need to keep the situation in mind in order to get proper shooting power. The temperature will affect 0.5 to 1.0 MOA for every 20 degrees of warmer situation. As a result, the propellant powder will also become warmer and increase the effect of the point of impact.

You may not get enough chance to measure the temperature or check the rifle when you are going or in the hunting field. You will need a suitable place where you can fix your place for sitting and waiting for the animal.

When you are going hotter place from a colder atmosphere, you will not face rifle functioning problems. However, heat creates another problem for your rifles. Therefore, you will need to know the heat and its impact on your rifle. When you are in extreme heat conditions, you should not fully loaded rifle with you for hunting.

In fact, you should always keep it under-loaded in heat conditions. Overloaded will make the bullets warmer and this will cause serious problems. In this case, keep the ammunition under a shade in order to have good accuracy level. Make a shade in order to avoid the sunlight on your ammunition. Otherwise, the ammunition will become too hot to touch and reload your rifle.

Altitude

You must understand the effect of altitude on your shooting. The thin air will keep your bullet up and heavy air will down the bullet. For that reason, you will need to understand the concept properly before you are going for hunting.

There is no consistent accuracy level of altitude for shooing. The difference is measured for per 5,000 feet and you can expect from 0.5 to 1.00 MOA scale. For that reason, this is important to use a gadget that will provide you accurate information regarding this.

You should not compromise the altitude effect because an inch difference can make you a loser of the day. For that reason, check the altitude of the rifle in order to get more accuracy. Usually, there is no recommended data for the hunters, because this depends on the rifle, air density, and other factors. However, at sea level shooting, the bullet goes 2.5 inches high at 100 yards shooting distance for low altitude level.

Humidity

Many shooters are confused about the humidity and its effect concept. New shooters think that the density of the humidity air is more than dry air. However, this is not a true concept, because moisture in the air is less density than dry air. Therefore, your rifle point will go higher in this case,

Shooting at 100 yards distance with zero does not have any big impact for the shooters. But, 400 yards distance is really a problem for the hunters. Then, you will need to know the impacts of the humidity that may vary to 0.5 MOA.

Conclusion

There is no specific rule for shooting in different extreme weathers, humidity, and altitude conditions. You will need to practice a lot, take your rifle and ammunition to the distance for shooting. You should not avoid any type of tips and tricks, like don’t keep ammunition in the sunlight for extreme heat.

That’s enough for a hunter because you will not have enough time for measuring the temperature and other conditions when you will look at a target ahead of you. You will just take your rifle, aim at it and hunt it with your rifle. These are only basic requirements for going to extremes cold hot and other factors. Remember that practicing in different conditions with your rifle will teach you a lot, and then normal basics can. So, take your rifle and go for your destination so that you can get rid of the adverse conditions.

Top 5 Crossbows

The world of bowhunting has been rippling with the effects of crossbows entering the field in droves. In states with deer herds growing to numbers out of control, game management experts are able to use bows to quietly dispatch nuisance deer—while hunters in areas that permit crossbows to use during bow season are able to get out in the woods with a weapon that inherently works like a rifle.

While there does seem to be a proverbial line drawn in the sand between many bow hunting purists, and the use of the crossbow—you don’t need to be Darryl Dixon to see the practice use of the bolt-slinging weapon. (Couldn’t discuss the crossbow without mentioning D.D. could we?)

The Crossbows you need to consider when buying:

Like typical bows, the crossbow could deliver a lethal shot from a distance; however, unlike a standard bow, a crossbow can be fired without drawing and releasing by hand. This advantage is where most bow hunters draw the line (archery pun intended).

As hunters, we all know just how difficult a task it is to get the scope out a great hunting spot, get there early, and wait for that trophy animal to mosey into our sights. It’s a painstaking endeavor that is most often times rewarded with little more than cold hands and feet, coupled with the mantra maybe next time.

Here’s the deal: we are thrilled to get out into the field whenever we can. With all the respect due to the purists, we can see both sides of the coin—while you have states who will do just about anything to bring in revenue (read: sell more hunting licenses) there are also hunters who have a hard time squeezing the entirety of their hunting season into a few Saturday mornings.

For busy folks, or people who are looking to spend more time in the woods, having a crossbow might be a key factor in buying a hunting license.

Who Would Benefit From a Crossbow?

The popularity of crossbows has exploded lately—and not strictly because of the zombie-slaying motorcyclist mentioned above. Crossbows help hunters bag more games, easy as that.

First, for hunters who are more familiar with firearms than with bow hunting, the crossbow is an easy next step. Coupling your crossbow bolts with some quality broadheads, you could make your crossbow an extremely effective weapon for putting down deer…or zombies.

A crossbow fits neatly between a rifle and a standard bow. With its gun stock, safety, sighting system (usually a scope), and trigger, it’s a perfect transition into archery season for hunters who have never used a bow before. It’s also great for hunters who would like to bow hunt, but have medical conditions restricting their ability to pull back a heavy bowstring.

Part of the disdain for crossbows by bow hunters is due to the fact that crossbows require much less skill to shoot than traditional bows. There’s no denying this fact—but the flip side of that view is that the crossbow’s ease of use can make hunters more effective in the field.

Sitting around camp and telling war stories of stalking the perfect buck and dropping him with a perfectly placed arrow is a great fantasy for some, the reality for most hunters is more along the lines of wanting to see a deer—and harvest it for meat. When the goal is to simply fill the freezer, it’s wise to use the equipment that gives you every possible advantage.

There’s something about hearing the powerful twang of the bowstring, and whizz of the bolt, that appeals to any hunter who tries it. Combined with the simplicity of many crossbows and it’s easy to understand why crossbows are treasured by those who have put them to use in the field.

The Drawbacks of Using Crossbows

While certain crossbows can be as powerful as some standard bows, no bow offers the range of a firearm. Hunting with a crossbow means that you’ll have to find yourself within close range of your target, and that can take some maneuvering.

It can also be deadly if your target happens to be a bear or other large game, and your shot falls short of fatal. An angered animal at short range would not leave you time to reload your crossbow, so it’s important to understand the risks and prepare accordingly.

Another drawback to using a crossbow is the bias so many bowhunters have against them. Because the crossbow is essentially a middle ground between a gun and a bow, many bowhunters feel that using a crossbow is like cheating.

While it’s admittedly easier to become proficient using a crossbow than a regular bow, it’s also true that crossbows require the same mindset required for bow hunting. Careful attention to wind velocity, range, and shaft speed are all vital to both crossbow hunting and bowhunting.

Hunting with a crossbow is a quickly addicting sport. For compound bow hunters who have never tried it, it would be a good idea to take a few shots using a crossbow before condemning them. The truth is, the drawbacks of using crossbows are slim if you are a hunter who is looking to harvest game.


The Best Crossbow for the Money: Crossbow Reviews

When it comes to finding the best crossbow for you, there are several factors to consider before swiping your credit card to snag the first flashy crossbow the guy behind the counter hands you.

Factors to consider:

  • Cost. Depending on how much you’ve planned to spend, you can enjoy a simple yet effective crossbow that requires little expert maintenance or a powerful compound crossbow that any bowhunter would gaze at with longing.
  • Design. Crossbow designs vary enormously. Recurve crossbows feature a single bowstring, while compound crossbows offer the increased power of a compound bow. There are models made for target shooting, and those made for big game hunting.
  • Accessories. Enjoyment of your new crossbow will be affected by whether or not your weapon comes equipped with features like a cocking rope, a scope, a quiver, bolts, etc.
  • Power. This is one of the most important considerations since it greatly impacts which animals you can take, and under what conditions.
  • Firing velocity. Like power, the firing velocity of your crossbow will dictate what game its best suited for. How fast your bow, or crossbow shoots, can be the difference between a kill and a complete miss.
  • Cost: $140-$200
  • Design: Recurve crossbow
  • Accessories: 4×32 scope, 4-arrow quiver, shoulder sling, scope mount, and cocking device
  • Color: Camo
  • Weight: 4.85 Pounds

SA Sports Fever Crossbow

For hunters aiming to try their hand at a simple crossbow that isn’t overly ambitious, the SA Sports Fever Crossbow is a great starter crossbow.

Smaller than typical compound crossbows, this weapon is much easier to load – which can be an excellent advantage for smaller hunters.

SA Sports Fever Crossbow

Editor Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Great for target shooting or beginning deer hunting
  • Nice detachable quiver
  • Can be restrung in the field
  • Draw weight isn’t overwhelming

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Bolts are cheaply made
  • Scope is poor quality
  • Lacks the precision of higher-end crossbow

Keeping in mind, this crossbow isn’t meant to compete with crossbows that cost hundreds of dollars more, you should be quite pleased with the convenience and power of this SA Sports Fever Crossbow package. Make sure to view the accompanying video to learn exactly how to use it; failure to lubricate the string or maintain the crossbow properly can result in disappointing failure, which is common in less expensive crossbows. Also, always make sure to use the provided rope cocking device to prevent your crossbow’s accuracy from being affected.


Wicked Ridge by TenPoint

If you’re looking to upgrade a beginner crossbow, and get into a lightweight crossbow that shoots fast—you’ll appreciate the moderate price of the Wicked Ridge by TenPoint. Weighing in at just 6.6lbs, but still firing in excess of 330f fps, you’ll be increasing your crossbow potential without murdering your bank account.

  • Cost: $475-549
  • Design: Recurve crossbow
Wicked Ridge by TenPoint

Editor Rating:

  • Accessories: Red Dot scope
  • Color: Wood aluminum
  • Firing velocity: 165 feet per second

Things We Liked

  • Lightweight
  • DFI (Dry-Fire-Inhibitor)
  • Excellent 3.5 pound T2 trigger
  • 330 FPS
  • Great cocking system
  • Compact crossbow
  • Made with quality limbs and cables

Things We Didn’t Like

  • 165-pound draw may be slightly low for an extremely large game
  • Doesn’t come with a sling
  • Some hunters report it as being louder than they like

The Wicked Ridge is an excellent offering from TenPoint, and many hunters are touting it to be as good as crossbows in the $1000 range. If you’re looking for a great quality crossbow, and already have some accessories on hand, this is a great option to put a quality weapon into your hands for a reasonable price.


Barnett Crossbow

Probably the most respected name in crossbows, this Barnett BCX Buck Commander Extreme CRT Crossbow Package offers the Barnett excellence along with the elite Buck Commander endorsement.

A nice upscale crossbow, this compound design is sure to impress you with its power, speed, and accuracy.

  • Cost: $600-$750
  • Design: Compound crossbow
  • Accessories: 3-arrow quiver, rope cocking device, 3×32 scope
  • Power: 185 lbs. draw weight
  • Firing velocity: 365 feet per second

Editor Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Easy to maneuver
  • Powerful yet quiet – for a crossbow
  • Durable
  • Excellent accuracy
  • Illuminated scope
  • Compact profile makes it convenient in a tree stand
  • Very fast

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Like most crossbows, it isn’t as quiet as an upright bow
  • Failure to maintain crossbow correctly will result in damaged string or bow

Even though this Barnett BCX Buck Commander Extreme CRT Crossbow is more expensive than some of the others we’ve reviewed, we still feel it is an excellent value for the money. The compact design makes it a great choice for anyone who plans to hunt in tight blinds or tree stands, and the power should make a crossbow fan of gun owners and archers alike.

They say you get what you pay for, and with the Barnett BCX Buck Commander Extreme CRT Crossbow Package, you might even get a little more. If you are a serious crossbow hunter, chances are you won’t be disappointed with the power of this bow.


Barnett 78610 Recruit Compound Crossbow

For small-framed hunters, women, and young hunters who want to try their hands at crossbow hunting, the Barnett 78610 Recruit Compound Crossbow offers excellent power and quality without requiring excess muscle to load.

This miniature crossbow can pack quite a punch, and the intricate design is a great example of why the Barnett name is so highly regarded as the best for crossbows of all sizes.

  • Cost: $265-$500
  • Design: Compound crossbow with an adjustable buttstock
  • Accessories: Quiver, three arrows, Red Dot scope and rope cocking device
  • Power: 130 lbs. draw weight
  • Firing velocity: 300 feet per second

Editor Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Extremely lightweight and easy to handle
  • Secure safety mechanism
  • Great balance and trajectory
  • Excellent for children as long as adult supervision is provided
  • Easy draw weight and powerful
  • Durable parts should last

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Included red-dot optic doesn’t have magnification
  • Not as powerful as more expensive models

If you’re in the market for a small, but lethal crossbow, the Barnett 78610 Recruit Compound Crossbow is an excellent choice. Its quality and precision make the higher price tag worth it, and it’s a much better value than larger crossbows. This crossbow is a great middle-of-the-road crossbow for the serious young or smaller hunters.


Carbon Express Intercept Axon Crossbow

For some hunters, only the best will do. In that case, the Carbon Express Intercept Axon Crossbow is hard to beat.

Despite its hefty price tag, this crossbow is a dream of precision, accuracy, power, and convenience.

The compact design sacrifices nothing in terms of strength, instead of affording the ability to deliver a lethal blow even in tight spots or long ranges.

Editor Rating:

  • Cost: $740-$1,000
  • Design: Compound crossbow
  • Accessories: Rope cocking device, 3-arrow quiver, 3 bolts, rail lubricant, 3 practice points, 4×32 lighted scope
  • Power: 175 lbs. draw weight
  • Firing Velocity: 360+ feet per second

Things We Liked

  • Adjustable everything makes this ideal for any adult hunter
  • Accuracy rivals that of rifles
  • Perfect for both rifle hunters and bow hunters
  • Eye-catching design
  • Compound bow offers amazing power and range

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Can be difficult to cock without a crank
  • Very loud for hunting
  • Hefty price tag

The Carbon Express Intercept Axon Crossbow is definitely not for the novice or casual hunters. It takes some muscle to load and shoot this crossbow. Still, if you are serious about crossbow hunting, this Carbon Express Intercept Axon Crossbow is very hard to beat. With an item like this in your hands, there is no limit to the game you will be able to take down.


So, what’s the best crossbow for the money?

Although each of these crossbows has its strengths, we really like to give our recommendation on a product that will be the most effective at getting you into the field without forcing you to sell the back forty in order to afford it.

The Wicked Ridge, by TenPoint, is our top pick for this year’s best crossbow package. While this crossbow was not the cheapest crossbow on the list, we believe the excellent power, compact design, and quality workmanship made it quite likely that this crossbow will far outlast its cheaper competitors.

As always, we hope these reviews have helped you make an informed decision regarding the best crossbows on the market this year. While there are certainly other great crossbows out there, we believe that you’ll have a hard time beating the performance of the models we’ve highlighted in this article.

As you head out into the field, or to the range, make sure to remember that as enjoyable as crossbow hunting is, it’s still a deadly weapon that must be handled with great caution. We joke about slaying zombies and mention our favorite character Darryl Dixon, but a crossbow is not a toy.

Treat it with care, never dry-fire it, and you can look forward to many years of happy hunting with your crossbow.

Top Gun Safes

Whether you’re a casual hunter who has a family or an avid shooter who spends as much time calculating and testing hand-loaded ammunition as you do on personal grooming; the security provided by a quality gun safe is the best way to protect your investment.

The holiday season is a great time to replace a safe you’ve outgrown or to bring another style of the safe into your growing arsenal.

Hunters who have collected an amassment of heirloom, or other ornate pieces may opt for a traditional cabinet style of weapon storage; folks looking to store more than just hunting rifles may seek out a fireproof option to protect documents and other items, and gun owners who have families may wish to even get a small option to stow an everyday carry (EDC) pistol in a convenient place that’s safely out of the kids’ reach.

Whatever your reasons for shopping for the best gun safe, make sure you buy the right safe for the right reasons.

The Gun Safes you need to consider when buying:

What to look for in a gun safe

There are so many options in the weapon storage market, it can make your head swim. Let’s start by breaking down some of the key features in a quality gun safe so you can easily decide which suits your needs (and your collection) best.

Cost

The most obvious, and usually the most important, factor in shopping for any item is simple: how much does it cost? A great gun safe will not only protect your weapons from theft or unintended handling, but it may also protect other valuables.

When making your decision on just how much to spend, try to keep in mind what other items you may be protected inside your safe. You may think that spending a few hundred bucks on a safe doesn’t sit quite right with you, but when you calculate the added protection for other precious items, you may feel better about increasing the ticket value.

Overall Quality

Here’s a riddle: when is a gun safe not a gun safe? When it’s not safe. Ok, I’ll stop being clever; my point is that a tiny lightweight gun case, or a glass-fronted gun cabinet, is not equal to a gun safe in terms of actual safety.

If your goal is safety—skip the thin-walled gun cases that can be easily breached or simply carried off. Quality construction and decent lock are mandatory.

Lock

With the availability of a handful of different locks, be sure you choose the right one for your application.

Your home defense weapons probably shouldn’t live behind a combination lock that you’re unlikely to be able to see in a low-light scenario, and that unfired Colt Gold Cup pistol your Grandfather left you in his will shouldn’t be stored in a cheap case that won’t protect it from the environment, let alone theft.

Capacity

If you’re like me, you’re not just a hunter, but also a collector. Great pieces that are family hand-me-downs take up space just as that hot new rifle you just had to buy three seasons ago, don’t get us started on that growing pistol collection…right?

Whether you’re expanding, upgrading, or buying your first gun safe, I always urge people to leave some room to grow—you’ll use it. Even if you think you won’t add to your collection, you may find that storing your ammunition or other valuables in the safe makes the extra space worth having.

Size and Weight

This may be as limiting a factor as cost. There’s a Zen-like line that a gun owner needs to walk; a line between having secure storage for their collection, and having to modify their home in order to fit a safe the size of a Volkswagen.

How much is too much? That may depend more on your home than your wallet, and woe is the man who buys a safe he can’t fit into his domicile.

Options and Accessories

Hey, nothing comes without a little room to upgrade right? There’s a host of killer upgrades, add-ons, and accessories in the gun safe market, and depending which new safe you get your hands one, you could go as far as setting up a secure network connection inside your safe to store your data.

Seriously. It sounds like overkill, but the amount of digital data we accumulate these days is so great that many manufacturers are starting to offer network jacks as factory options. Other options are much more practical, you know, things like lights. It’s nice to actually see your collection once it’s securely stored, isn’t it?


Top 5 Gun Safes Recommendations

Electronic Gun Security Cabinet

The Mesa Safe Company is a trusted name when it comes to protecting your valuables.

This rugged gun safe may not hold an entire armory, but weighing in over 500lbs, you’ll find this gun safe will be an extremely durable and secure option.

The safe is pre-drilled for adding a dehumidifier, and even has an internal power outlet.

If you’re looking for an exceptionally safe for your collection, but don’t want to dedicate a massive amount of space to storage, look no further, try this Rifle Safe,Electronic Gun Security Cabinet.

RPNB Rifle Safe

Editor Rating:

With a moderate price of just under $750 as of this article, the Mesa 14 rifle safe is certainly not the cheapest safe on the market; however, this safe will ship free for Amazon Prime members, and it offers features typically included in safes that cost an arm and a leg. The only limiting factor here would be the size of your gun collection.

Things We Liked

  • Fire protection: 1 hour at 1750 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Solid steel deadbolts and a drill resistant hard plate for added security
  • Pre-drilled with an internal power plug for a dehumidifier
  • Bolt-down kit for secure installation
  • Easy to use electronic lock
  • Re-locking system for added security

Things We Didn’t Like

  • 14 gun capacity may be small for collectors
  • Limited space for hanging an organizer on the door

Gunvault GV2000

Not every gun owner has a collection of rifles that needs to be stored in a massive hulking safe in their basement.

For folks who already have an excellent gun safe for their rifles, or for the people who wish to have a more readily available place to stow a few pistols, the Gunvault GV2000 is a great option.

The handprint design on the top of the Gunvault acts as the platform for the electronic lock, but what we really like is the available key lock.

GunVault gun safes

Editor Rating:

Relying on electronics can make life convenient—for as long as the electronics work. Being able to access your pistols quickly by key or an electronic lock makes for peace of mind. There is a shelf inside this safe, so you could store a pistol or two inside the safe as well as a flashlight, small medical kit, or really anything else that you’d like to keep secure.

For a secure pistol storage option that is under $200, we think this one of the best possible options. Keep in mind the dual power sources (battery and AC power) and the dual locking mechanisms (electronic and keyed). This is a great buy.

Things We Liked

  • Dual locking systems allow access in almost any scenario
  • Foam lining protects your items
  • Built-in timed lights illuminate the interior without draining batteries
  • Dual power sources (battery and AC)
  • Room enough for multiple pistols, or other valuables.

Things We Didn’t Like

  • If not bolted down, it’s susceptible to being carried away.
  • Not fire or waterproof
  • Limited capacity

Steelwater Gun Safes

Tipping the scales at 879 pounds, this massive 51 rifle capacity fireproof safe is certainly not for the weak of heart, or wallet.

At around $1500 this safe is clearly our most expensive recommendation, and also the largest, we have to admit this may not be the perfect safe for every gun owner out there; but don’t forget, this beauty offers not only excellent security but lots and lots of room to grow.

The proof is in the pudding, so to speak, and this safe comes packed with the size and features of safes that typically cost more than double this price.

Steelwater Gun Safes

Editor Rating:

Just think how great it would be to crack open your safe and be able to quickly inventory all of your rifles, pistols, and ammunition. No more opening one small cabinet, then going to the bedroom closet to fish out that gun you forgot to store after hunting season, then sorting through cans of ammo in various places in the basement.

The Second Amendment safe has room enough to keep all of your loot in one place. In terms of security, this safe is loaded with features ranging from a drill-resistant plate, to chromed steel deadbolts, right down to its 12GA steel construction and powder-coating, so it’s completely utilitarian, but stylish as well.

There are holes for bolting this down, just in case you think someone could actually lift this beast—and the interior is nicely decorated with a plush grey lining.

Things We Liked

  • High rifle capacity
  • Included door panels for added storage
  • Great security features
  • Fireproof to 1700 degrees
  • Excellent customer service

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Very large and heavy
  • On the expensive side

Barska Rifle Safe

If fireproofing is not a concern, you may be interested in the incredibly convenient biometric safe offered by Barska.

Fire protection aside, this safe is a good buy, coming in just under $230 as I write this—you could have your weapons conveniently stored with a foolproof locking system for an extremely low price.

With the ability to store up to 120 identities (which is to say 120 fingerprints) this safe is definitely handy.

The upper shelf can accommodate a full-sized pistol, or some ammunition of you choose—while the main storage area holds about four rifles depending on their size (more like two if you’re storing kitted out tactical weapons).

Barska Gun Safes

Editor Rating:

We think a safe like this may fit nicely into the home of someone who wants to keep some home defense weapons nearby, but doesn’t want to try and fiddle with a key in the dark—or type in an electronic code in a hurry.

There is a loud audible beep when using the electronic lock, which can be disabled, but is cool because it lets you know if someone is trying to access your safe—again great for home defense or keeping weapons out of unauthorized hands.

Things We Liked

  • 120 identity storage makes for easy access
  • Excellent for quickly accessing home-defense weapons
  • Holds rifles and potentially a pistol, or ammunition.
  • Mounts to a wall or floor
  • Easier installation than a cumbersome safe
  • Great price

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Small storage capacity
  • Lacks fireproofing

Stack-On Gun Safes

Stack-On is a well-known name in the safe industry, and for good reason.

With all of their experience in the market, they are able to offer safes like the TD14-22 which boasts a 22 rifle capacity, waterproofing, fireproofing, and comes with a door organizer as well.

An outlet is installed inside for adding a dehumidifier, and the shelving may be arranged to provide storage for other items aside from rifles.

Overall Stack-On TD14 Safe offers a lot of features for a modest price, just under $900, which is a reasonable price considering the features and size.

Stack-On Gun Safes

Editor Rating:

As with all gun safes, you’re paying for peace of mind as much as you are security, so having enough space to put your weapons and other valuables with the added water and fire protection really adds value.

Things We Liked

  • Waterproof (up to 2 feet)
  • Fireproof for 75 minutes up to 1400 degrees Fahrenheit
  • A lot of features for the price
  • Electric outlet for installing a dehumidifier
  • Included door organizer allows added storage

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Internal fit and finish leaves a little to be desired (carpet and shelving may need tweaking)
  • Some users wish for a higher quality electronic lock

Final thoughts

So you’ve seen our highly recommended safe options. As a collector myself, I understand just how hard it can be to find a perfect option that will provide the security you want, fit in your home, and also fit into your budget.

My absolute recommendation is to get the biggest and best safe you can afford, even if it requires you to save up for longer than you’d like. Saving a few hundred bucks upfront, just to end up needing a bigger (or better) safe a few years down the road really isn’t saving in the long run.

Of course, buying the best safe you can afford doesn’t mean you need to siphon funds from your annual vacation fund. Dropping a few thousand dollars on a safe that needs to be lowered into your home at the hands of a skilled crane operator is a cool daydream for some of us, but unless you’re a lottery winner that may not be feasible.

We chose the Blue Dot Second Amendment safe as our favorite here at Outdoorhill. The price tag is heavy, no doubt about that, but the 51 rifle capacity and excellent internal storage options will come in handy for almost any collector out there.

The door organizer can hold a small armory itself, and the excellent fireproof rating should offer peace of mind to anyone who wishes to protect their investment.

As an added bonus, if you’re an Amazon Prime member, this safe is available with free Prime shipping. Our last recommendation goes a bit beyond gun safety, and more into operational security. If you live in an area where trash and recycling is picked up at your curbside—you may wish to break down the packaging from your safe and dispose of it more discretely.

Call it security by obscurity if you’d like, but keeping your gun collection to yourself is the goal of a gun safe—and we think the idea of leaving a large box that says “gun safe” on the side of the road by your home may be a form of advertising that could have some negative impacts, to say the least.

Top Rifle Scopes for Long Range

Having a long-range rifle is one of the dreams of many hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Nonetheless, while the rifle itself can be an excellent investment, it is never enough.

You also need to invest in a long-range riflescope. The latter will provide you with high-quality optics that can help increase shooting precision. Regardless of the shooting environment, you will be able to see your target clearly, and hence, you will be able to shoot accurately.

Are you looking for the best long-range riflescopes? For sure, your search is not going to be easy, given the fact that the options can be overwhelming.

From the quality of the optics to the durability of the materials that are used, there are many things that should be taken into account.

To help you out in making the right decision, keep on reading and we will provide you with insights on how to choose the right one, and more importantly, we will recommend some of the best brands and models that are available in the market depending on your budget.
Our Pick: Top Best Long Range Rifle Scope From $500 To $1,000

Most Important Features to Look for in Long Range Riflescopes

Having a hard time evaluating the options that you can find in the marketplace? In this part, we will tackle some of the most important features that deserve your attention.

Lenses

This is the most important feature of the long-range riflescope. The lenses will be indicative of the visual quality and clarity of the subject.
It should be made from a material that can provide you with a good perspective of your subject, regardless of the external environment.
Meaning, even if it is dark or foggy, it is important that the lenses will be able to give you an impressive view of the target.
You should select a model with clear and sharp glass, even if it means that the price is going to be more expensive.

Zoom Power

The zoom power of the riflescope will be indicative of its magnification capability.

It is recommended that you choose a scope with the more powerful zooming feature, which means that you can easily see your subject even from a distance.
However, caution must be observed. As the object is zoomed in, the image quality also decreases.
With this, choose a high-quality riflescope, which means that the subject must remain clear regardless of how much you zoom.

Reticle

In a long range riflescope, reticle simply refers to the aiming point of the scope.
There should be dots that are spaced out evenly. This is critical in long range shooting, especially in terms of being able to have a clear aim on your subject.
A high quality reticle will make it easy to stay focused on your target.
Even if you are from afar, it will make it effortless to make sure that your target is shot where you intended to have it hit.

Objective Lens Size

It is important to keep in mind that the larger the lens size, the better is the transmission of light.
However, this does not necessarily mean that you will be choosing the largest lens size that is available.
As experts recommend, most users will do well with 50mm objective lens.
Anything that is larger than such will be able to demonstrate the same level of light transmission.
To add, those that are larger can be a drawback because it means that larger mounts will be required.
This could add up to the weight of your rifle.

Focal Plane

Basically speaking, there will be two choices for focal plane.
In the first focal plane, it means that there will be changes in the size of the reticle based on the changes in magnification.

In the case of the second focal plane, on the other hand, the size of the reticle will remain the same regardless of the changes in magnification. The first focal plane is preferred by many.


Best Rifle Scope Under $500

For those who are looking for an affordable long-range riflescope, this is one option that should not be missed.

While Vortex Optics Crossfire II comes at an affordable price, it does not run short in terms of innovative features, such as impressive glass quality and magnification, making it easy to see your target clearly.

The adjustable BDC reticle is also worth noting, which makes it excellent. It can be accurate for a distance of 50 to 200 yards.

It is also weather-resistant. This is one of the riflescopes built for the outdoors. Even if it is raining, you can expect the product to deliver unrivaled functionality.

A lot of users were also happy with the quick target acquisition that can be enjoyed from this product It is user-friendly and the adjustments can be made in a snap.

Our Pick For Adjustment:

Things We Liked

  • Affordable price
  • Easy to adjust

Things We Didn’t Like

  • A bit awkward to handle
  • Quite large

Even with the cheap price of this long-range riflescope, it is filled with impressive technical features, making it comparable to higher-end models.

For instance, it has 6 to 24x magnification, 50mm objective diameter, and excellent lighting transmission.

The durability of this riflescope has been given words of praise by many people.

Monstrum G2 First Scope is built with the use of high-quality components, which can withstand even tough and prolonged use. To add, it is also worth noting that it is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof.

The scope is made from aluminum and comes with a stylish black finish that gives it a standout appeal.

Handling Of Recoil

The multicoated optics of the scope is also a good reason to have it chosen among others. This type of coating will maximize the transmission of light, providing the user with unmatched visual clarity to help increase shooting accuracy.

Things We Liked

  • Affordable price
  • Excellent handling of recoil

Things We Didn’t Like

  • No instructions
  • Mount is not universal

With 4 to 12x magnification power, coupled with a fully-coated optical system, this is one of the best options within the product category, guaranteeing more precise and accurate shooting.

With its excellent optical quality, it is sure to perform well even when used in low-light conditions.

The quick-focus eyepiece is also an excellent feature of this scope. This results into being able to acquire your target faster.

Monstrum G2 First Focal Plane also has 3.7-inch eye relief, which means that it could not lead to eye strain, even for people who are using eyeglasses.

Lastly, it comes with a patented DC reticle. The latter has been exclusively developed by Nikon, one of the most trusted brands within the product category.

Lightweight Long Range Rifle

The reticle can prove to be beneficial when it comes to being able to easily and accurately aim at your target.

Things We Liked

  • Lightweight and compact
  • Lifetime warranty

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Not best for older styles of rifles
  • A bit difficult to control

Best Rifle Scope from $500 to $1,000

Durability is one of the best things about this long-range rifle scope.

One of the reasons for the latter is the fact that it is made from aircraft-grade aluminum, which increases its structural integrity. To add, it is also waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof.

It is teeming in terms of innovative features, including those that cannot be found in other brands.

For instance, Vortex Optics Viper has Customizable Rotational Stop, which prevents losing your zero. It also has MagView Bar, which means that it has fiber optics in its glass.

A lot were also happy with its extra-low dispersion glass, which provides crisp and clear images.

Our Pick For Focusing:

The XR lens coating, on the other hand, is a proprietary technology, which improves light transmission for optimal brightness, regardless of the external condition of the shooting environment.

Things We Liked

  • Durable
  • Easy focusing

Things We Didn’t Like

  • The quality of glass could be better
  • Poor zooming capabilities

SIII Long Range Scope

One of the most impressive features of this model is the side focus. This will make it easy for you to customize the magnification while being glued to your target.

This is one of the reasons why SIII Long Range Scope 10-50x 60 Reticle Type: Target Dot is enjoyed by beginners who are looking for a user-friendly scope.

The 50x magnification of this model is also impressive. This means that you can have the subject magnified by as much as 50 times.

Even if you are shooting from afar, you will be able to see your subject clearly. There are some users, however, who complained that the image quality is reduced when you zoom.

The ZACT-7 Rev Coat multi-coating is another feature that gives it a distinction from its competitors.

Our Pick For Magnification

With the latter, it is equipped with 7 layers of high-quality coating to increase light transmission, and hence, allowing you to see your subject even in shooting conditions that are dark.

Things We Liked

  • Side focus
  • Excellent magnification

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Stiff adjustments for the reticle
  • Poor quality lens cap

Leupold Rifle Scope

By taking a look at the overall construction of this Leupold Riflescope VX-5HD , it will be easy to understand why it is ranked by many as amongst the best.

It has 24k gold plated ring and medallion. More so, it has an aluminum housing, which can withstand wear and tear, providing you with the guarantee that it can be functional for an extended period. It is also fog-proof and waterproof.

It comes with 90 MOA windage and elevation adjustment. This means that you will have the freedom to have it controlled.

You can adjust it left and right, up and down, depending on where your subject is.

Lastly, it has motion sensor technology, which is one feature that is not common in other products within this price range.

Our Pick For Accurate

It will automatically deactivate the illumination of your reticle when it is not used, allowing the battery life to be extended.

Things We Liked

  • Accurate
  • Built to last

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Poor customer service
  • Issues with light transmission

Best Rifle Scope from $1,000 to $2,000

You get what you pay for. This is applicable in this long-range rifle scope. While it has an expensive price, it can be an excellent investment for anyone who is serious in shooting. Its quality is hard to rival.

One of its most impressive features of this Thor LT Thermal Rifle Scope is Multicoat 4, a coating technology that has been exclusively developed by the manufacturer to give their products an edge above others.

With the latter, the amount of light that reaches your eye will be increased, allowing it to offer image clarity that is topnotch.

The DiamondCoat2 external lens coating is another technology that improves its optics.

The Extended Twilight Lens System is another feature that deserves to be highlighted.

Our Pick For Construction:

Thor LT Thermal Rifle ScopeThe latter is excellent not only for light transmission but also for magnification, making it possible to acquire your target quickly.

Things We Liked

  • Clear optics
  • Excellent construction

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Pricey
  • It May not be beginner-friendly

SIII Long Range Scope

Among other things, the lifetime warranty that is being offered by the manufacturer can be one of the best reasons to have it considered above all others.

SIII Long Range Scope At any given time, if problems are experienced and if defects showed up, you can have it returned to the manufacturer and they will have it repaired for free.

Quick and accurate – these are two of the things that are often used by its users to describe this product. It will take only a few seconds before the target can be spotted.

With its quick target acquisition, you can be confident that SIII Long Range Scope is one of the most reliable options you will ever find.

Our Pick For Optics:

The ergonomic design of this rifle scope should also be mentioned. Handling the scope will not be tasking. You can have easy access to the adjustments.

Things We Liked

  • Superior quality optics
  • Tough construction

Things We Didn’t Like

  • A bit heavy
  • Hard to find

ATN X Rifle Scope

One of the first things that should be highlighted about this product is the Fully Multi-Coated Optics.

ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Edition Smart Hunting Rifle Scope provides the brightest images with the highest contrast, allowing you to see your subject with optimal clarity.

The Bulletproof Money-back Guarantee that is being offered by the manufacturer is one more thing that makes it impressive.

If you are unhappy with the product, return it to the manufacturer and they will provide you with a refund.

It also comes with RainGuard HD, a patented technology. This provides the scope with a special water-repellent coating to keep moisture away and to allow it to deliver optimal functionality in various shooting environments.

It is also Argon Purged, which makes it waterproof.

Our Pick For Sun Shades:

ATN X-Sight-4k Pro Edition Smart Hunting Rifle Scope

Things We Liked

  • Excellent optics
  • Has a sunshade

Things We Didn’t Like

  • A bit heavy
  • May not be good for beginners

Best Rifle Scopes from $2,000 Above

For people who do not care about how much they send as long as they are able to purchase a long-range rifle scope with exceptional quality, this is one option that should not be missed.

It is made by a high-end brand that does not skimp in terms of features that will provide it with an edge above others within the competition.

It features Xtended Twilight Lens System, which uses wavelength-specific lens coating for optimal light transmission.

Regardless of the shooting environment where you are. The lens will receive a sufficient amount of light to make your subject visible.

Our Pick For Compact:

LEUPOLD VX-6HD 2-12X42MM RIFLE SCOPEIt is also worth noting that the brand uses lead-free lenses, which is contributory to making it exceptionally clear and bright.

The legendary ruggedness of this scope also makes Leupold Vx-6hd 2-12x42mm Rifle Scope appealing. Even through the years and with frequent use, it will remain highly functional.

Things We Liked

  • Compact
  • Fits perfectly in mount

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Can be complicated for beginners
  • Pricey

This is an elite riflescope that is perfect for advanced users. A lot of beginners may be intimated with this scope, especially because of its price.

Are you looking for a scope that can provide unmatched clarity? This scope has been integrated with various proprietary technologies to deliver a clear vision of your subject.

Some examples of its innovative features include Xtended Twilight Lens System and DiamondCoat2.

The latter are integrated into the optics of the scope, allowing it to optimize the transmission of light, and hence, resulting in being able to see your target clearly regardless of the condition of the external environment.

It should be also mentioned that it is equipped with a front focal plane.

Our Pick For Optics:

Leupold Vx-6hd 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope W Firedot Duplex

This means that the reticle will adjust based on the magnification of the image. You will be able to have a better estimation of your range across all magnification settings of this Leupold Vx-6hd 3-18x44mm Rifle Scope W/ Firedot Duplex.
Things We Liked

  • Premium optics
  • Excellent warranty

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Limited magnification
  • Unattractive looks

It is surprising how a lightweight and compact long-range riflescope can be high-performing.

With a weight of 23.6 ounces and a length of 12 inches, it might be small, but it is big in terms of features that give it a distinctive appeal above its competitors.

The 6:1 zoom ratio is one of the most impressive features that you can find in this model. This means that regardless of the magnification, you will be able to see your target clearly.

Image quality will not be negatively affected regardless of how much you zoom.

The Twin Bias Spring Erector System also makes this model an exceptional pick. With the latter, it can withstand recoil and long-term use, making it an excellent investment.

Our Pick For Magnification:Trijicon Vcog 1-6x24mm Green Segmented RifflescopeLastly, it is waterproof and fog-proof. Regardless of the external conditions in the place where you are shooting, you can expect Trijicon Vcog 1-6x24mm Green Segmented Rifflescope to deliver exceptional performance.

Things We Liked

  • Exceptional warranty
  • Impressive magnification

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Not beginner-friendly
  • Controls can be confusing

Conclusion

Now you have full information regarding the best long-range rifle scopes that you can purchase for enhancing your shooting capability at a long-range. Remember that without having the best scope in your rifle, you will never be able to shoot at long range.

On the other hand, you can try some rifles that come with a built-in long-range scope but you may not have the best technology to have an accurate calculation of data before shooting. Don’t forget to compare the battery life and the weight of the scopes because they are really significant to use.

Get back to the long-range rifle’s scope store and compare the features. The above comparison chart will give you maximum help so that you can have a brief idea about the scopes at a glance.

For that reason, keep up to date with the technology and include any of the scopes into your rifle to have a long-range shooting capability in the next hunting season or shooting competition. Having any of the rifle scopes will give you an advantage against other hunters and shooters in any competition you are going to take part.

​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BMiqSEriM70

Top Tactical Flashlights for Hunting

An infectious trend has settled into the gear market lately. It seems you can’t buy a new piece of gear that isn’t labeled tactical. If you read our budget gear review covering Tactical Knives, you know that we classify products as either tactical or tacticool. Basically, there are items that look great, and there are items that perform great. Do you want an item that not only looks sharp but outperforms the competition? No worries, we’re gear freaks too, and we’re here to help.

Black designs, modular attachment systems, and morale patches won’t help you see in the dark. They’re cool, and we love them, but in this article, the focus will be a more practical subject: flashlights. From changing a tire on a rainy evening, to responding to a 911 call, to kicking in doors in hostile territory—darkness is a common enemy.

A flashlight (aka a torch) is not only a practical item, it’s most likely one of the most heavily utilized pieces of your kit. Distinguishing between a utilitarian flashlight and a tactical flashlight can be done by comparing their design, features, and intended use.

A hand-crank flashlight made of bright blue plastic might be a great piece of kit to have in your vehicle or home for emergencies—and in those circumstances, it’s a practical item—but would you want to take that same flashlight out to hunt coyotes in the dark? How about using that same flashlight in a home-defense scenario? Probably not.

The tactical flashlights you need to consider when buying:

More than likely you would be wishing for a rugged flashlight with a high-lumen output, maybe even one that would mount easily to a weapon—or better yet—a flashlight that could actually double as a weapon if you absolutely needed it to. Now we’re talking practical and tactical. Lock and load, let’s do this.

What to look for in a tactical flashlight?

Cost

Finding a tactical flashlight won’t be hard, but finding one that suits your budget could be. There are a lot of buzzwords in the tactical market—so it’s important as a buyer to know what makes a light worth buying. Due to a lack of standardization in the torch market, it’s not always easy to find an apples-to-apples comparison between products. Choose the products that has the right features for you.

Overall Quality

With a little design work, some rugged edges, and a coat of black paint, nearly any flashlight can be made to look badass. When searching for the right flashlight for you, make sure to check for overall build quality—things such as anodized aluminum, replaceable switches, and quality lighting components will matter far more than the model name of a flashlight or the fact that it’s got a built-in laser pointer.

Brightness

Look for the lumens. The easiest way to determine how much precious light your new torch will burn with is to look at: output in lumens, range, and beam style. Some flashlights have adjustable beams so you can focus the output. The range of the beam will matter most to folks who plan to use their light for long-distance work. The biggest output factor, and the one you’ll usually find plainly advertised on quality torches, is the output in lumens.

Weight

Whether you plan to slap a new tactical light on your weapon, stow it on a plate carrier, or add it to your duty belt, the weight of the new item is something work researching. Don’t pick an item that will slow you down, or add unnecessary risk to your tasks.

Size

There is a balance to be found between the size and power of a tactical flashlight. Too small, and the light may not pack enough punch through the dark—too large and the sight may weigh you down and make for a cumbersome piece of gear. Knowing exactly how much lighting power you need, and what size best suits your task will be of serious benefit to you as a buyer.

Power Options

Your new light will need a power source of some type. The lack of standards in the flashlight market can make this somewhat convoluted; however, if you keep in mind what is the most practical to your personal environment, it may help. If you find yourself around constant power sources, a rechargeable light that uses Lithium-Ion batteries could be an excellent option for you. For users who spend extended amounts of time in the field, a tactical flashlight that can get a lot of mileage from a pair of CR123A batteries may be more practical. Lights that use more traditional AA or even AAA batteries are also options to consider.


Top 5 Tactical Flashlight Recommendations

Safariland Tactical Flashlight

Safariland is a name known throughout the police and military world for making quality gear, especially holsters. It makes perfect sense that their offering in the tactical flashlight market would include with it a mounting system to be used with a weapon.

With an overall output of 190 lumens, Safariland Rls-1-2-PIC1 Rapid Light System Mount & Light is best suited as a weapon light; however, it does offer a very clean and ergonomic grip that lends easily to pocket carry. The RLS mount would even work with most other tactical flashlights out there. The compact RLS is powered by three AAA batteries, which keeps the profile of the flashlight small enough to use with a pistol—or to tuck the flashlight into your pocket.

Editor Rating:

Things We Liked

  • ​Excellent RLS mounting system for pistol or Picatinny rail attaching
  • Removable clip for pocket carry
  • Useful as a flashlight or a weapon light
  • Rugged compact design
  • Extremely versatile

Things We Didn’t Like

  • 190 lumen max may be insufficient for some users
  • Flashlight may roll on flat surfaces if clip is removed

Olight Tactical Flashlight

If it’s the power you’re looking for, the Olight M22 Warrior brings it in droves. A highly efficient CREE XM-L2 LED blasts 950 lumens of white light at your target. A light this bright could easily be used for outdoor applications, long-range spotting, or even as a self-defense tool.

The M22 Warrior does have three output levels, so you’re not blinded if trying to use it to read something up close, and this torch even includes a strobe function. Knurled edges prevent the light from rolling when it’s placed on a flat surface, and the textured aircraft aluminum body provides plenty of grip.

Olight M22 Warrior

Editor Rating:

The hearty design of Olight M22 Warrior makes it a devilishly tough device that could be used as a striking tool if necessary.

Things We Liked

  • 950-lumen output
  • Knurled edges prevent rolling
  • Three brightness modes for different scenarios
  • Strobe function
  • Multi-function tail switch
  • A thick bezel may be used for self-defense

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Design may feel a bit cumbersome to some users
  • Only three output modes

G2X Pro tactical flashlight

SureFire is another name that’s well known by police agencies worldwide. Their G2X Pro tactical flashlight is a powerful option packed into a Nitrolon body to maintain strength while remaining lightweight and corrosion-proof.

Users looking for a light that would fit well into duty gear, and could pull shifts as a flashlight or weaponlight, will certainly appreciate this light.

Editor Rating:

With two output modes (320 lumens on high and 15 lumens on low) you could use this to root around in your vehicle without blinding yourself—then seamless transition to illuminating your surroundings effortlessly.

SureFire uses a 123A battery to power this light, and according to their web site the batteries are included, after initial purchase you can find bulk packages of the 3v batteries easily on Amazon.

Things We Liked

  • Nitrolon construction won’t corrode
  • Virtually indestructible LED emitter
  • Dual output modes
  • Tail switch
  • Made in the USA
  • Beam shaped by a micro-textured reflector

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Not waterproof
  • Doesn’t include a pocket clip

The Fenix Tactical Flashlight

When it comes to having a practice piece of gear, you want something that can be used in as many different scenarios as possible. Of course, with flashlights, the worst-case scenario is when you click that switch and your light emits such a dull glow that you’d be better off carrying a candle to light the way.

The Fenix UC35 helps you not only kiss those days goodbye, but you could even turn around and give those days the middle finger as you stoke a 960-lumen fire with one hand. The UC35 gives you something many other flashlights cannot: options.

The Fenix UC35

Editor Rating:

Powered by a single 18650 Li-ion battery, or a pair of 3v CR123A batteries, you can even charge the Fenix UC35 via USB when using the included 18650 Li-ion battery. With the option to power up with so many portable options ranging from stored power to USB in your vehicle, to solar-powered battery packs, the UC35 can be as ready as you are.

Things We Liked

  • USB chargeable
  • 960 lumen output
  • Can use CR123A or 18650 Li-ion batteries
  • Reverse polarity protection for batteries
  • Anodized and textured aluminum body
  • Pocket clip and holster included
  • Five output intensities & strobe

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Slightly bulky for pocket carry
  • Turbo mode generates heat

Streamlight Handheld Flashlight

When you think of a tactical light, you think of something compact but powerful—something that can go to hell and back while still getting the job done. Streamlight’s ProTAC series is built to be a powerful, yet versatile tactical flashlight that rolls with the punches—but doesn’t roll when you set it down. Sorry, couldn’t resist the pun.

The C4 LED offers 600 lumens of lighting power, while the solid-state power regulation provides the maximum output throughout the life of your batteries. As we joked, this light has an anti-roll face cap to keep it from running away from you when set down on a flat surface.

88040 Streamlight ProTac Professional Handheld Flashlight

Editor Rating:

It’s also waterproof, so using it in tough wet conditions shouldn’t be a bother. Powered by a pair of included CR123A batteries, this compact light is a workhorse just like 88040 Streamlight ProTac Professional Handheld Flashlight.

Things We Liked

  • Compact design
  • Two output modes (600 or 33 lumens)
  • Up to 18 hours battery life on low
  • Waterproof
  • Great as a flashlight or weaponlight
  • Included batteries, holster, and pocket clip

Things We Didn’t Like

  • No filters available from the manufacturer
  • No place to attach a lanyard

Final thoughts

When it comes to tactical flashlights or any gear for that matter, it can be a little tricky to figure out the best item for the best price; however, we want to offer up our most recommended item at the end of each Budget Gear Review so you can make the best purchase for your needs.

Our top recommended tactical flashlight is the Fenix UC35 for a whole host of reasons. First thing’s first, when you’re buying a tactical flashlight, you need power. With 960 lumens of blinding light, the UC35 delivers. You can scale it back by tapping the mode switch, so there is no need to click the light on and off a bunch of times just to land on different light output. Having five-light output modes ranging from 15 lumens all the way to 960, users can really extend their battery life by using an output that best suits each task.

Having a functional design and a ton of power are both excellent qualities in a flashlight, but the UC35 goes a step further and allows users to run their choice of an included 18650 Li-ion battery or CR123A’s in their Fenix torch. The included Li-ion battery is rechargeable and may be charged over USB with the included cable. With the abundance of USB charging ports available these days, it’s a no-brainer: get a flashlight that you can recharge anytime, anywhere, and you’ll be prepared for any situation that might need to be illuminated.

Top Tactical Knives for Hunting

In a market flooded with options, it can be intimidating for buyers to pluck a knife from a display and say “this is the one for me”. The use of five dollar words as well as endorsements from celebrities and police or military units can make certain knives appear to be a better option than others—when in reality—the best knife isn’t always the one that the military claims to use, it’s the knife that best suits your needs and budget.

Let’s begin by addressing the term: tactical knife. Today’s market of knives, firearms, clothing, and other gear is inundated with more of the five dollar words that make things sound cool. Poking fun of the abuse and overuse of the term has bred the nickname: tacticool. Carrying an item labeled as tactical for no reason other than “it’s cool” will probably earn you a few nicknames as well, none of which being said to your face, and none of which being particularly kind.

Don’t be that guy. Buying the knife that best suits your needs is what will make it tactical because it’s a tool designed and purchased to assist you in the specific task you carry it for. A knife doesn’t need to be oversized, cerakoted black, or covered in paracord to be tactical.

Ernest Emerson, a custom knifemaker—who has designed knives for more government, military, and police agencies than we previously thought existed—wrote an article that may help to sort some of the details on what makes a knife a tactical knife. Check out his article here if you’d like to read up on what makes a knife a tactical knife. You may find information that helps you find the right knife for you.

What Qualities Can Be Found in the Best Tactical Knives?

Hopefully, by now we’ve sorted the differences “tactical” equipment, and “tacticool” equipment. To us, carrying a piece of tactical equipment simply means it will cover the host tasks we intend to use it for. These tasks may be as specific as needing the entire knife to be black to minimize reflections, or as broad as needing carbon steel for striking a ferrocerium rod. A knife is just a knife, but a tactical knife is a tool. Many knife enthusiasts appreciate tactical knives with the following characteristics:

Non-folding/fixed blade

Although technically, any multi-purpose knife like the classic Swiss Army Knife can be considered a tactical knife, many outdoorsmen prefer a fixed blade, non-folding knife when it counts the most.

In a survival situation, bushcraft outing, or even a camping trip, chances are your knife is going to be your most-used tool. A knife can be used as a weapon, to process game, or to create many life-saving devices, and it’s vital that your knife can cut the mustard (pun shamelessly intended).​

With even the best folding knives, there is an inherent weakness at the joint between the handle and the blade. While this usually is never a problem under normal circumstances, a survival scenario of any type will put your knife to the test. The last thing you need is to be at the mercy of a razor-sharp knife with no handle. The bottom line with folding knives is simply the fact that they are designed to fold—if you dislike the idea of your knife relying on a fold or a lock, be sure to focus on fixed blades.​

Full tang

Along the same lines as fixed vs. folding design, it’s almost just as important that your knife has a full tang, or a blade that extends from the edge of the blade all the way to the tip of the handle. Just like a folding knife can break under extreme use, a partial tang knife has some weakness that could result in a broken knife.

Whether a knife has a full tang or not is not always evident from the outside, so don’t assume it’s a weaker knife simply because the handle doesn’t show metal underneath.

Non-slip handle

One of the most basic yet critical components of a knife is its handle. You want a knife that you can hold comfortably, but keeping in mind it’s intended use, you may want to go a step further and find a knife that is made of a specific material.

Even if you think a knife’s smooth handle would never slip out of your firm grasp, imagine how hard it might be to keep a solid grip in the cold of winter when you’re trying to start a fire—or coated in slick blood while processing game. It’s easy to forget how important the little things are, but you’ll be thinking of little else when it matters most.

Another consideration should be the shape of the handle. Is it conducive to long periods of cutting into resistant materials? Would it tire your hands?

Finger grooves on a knife can promote grip in a certain position, but going back to the question of what will it be used for, not all handles are created equal. Do the nicely sculpted finger grooves help hold that knife firmly in your clutches? They sure do—until you try to flip the knife around. With the blade pointing down (reverse grip) do those same finger grooves help anymore? Keep the design and construction of the handle in mind when buying, it could certainly make a difference.

The Steel

Are you a metallurgist? If you don’t know the difference between varying types of steel, hardness ratings, and coatings applied to them—don’t let them be the driving factor behind your purchase.

Good quality steel is what you need, and so long as you’re not buying an incredibly inexpensive knife made in a country with questionable manufacturing standards, you’re probably in the clear. The United States makes plenty of reputable steel, and it probably wouldn’t hurt to look around for some quality American-made products, but that’s another story altogether.

Although the type of steel doesn’t need to be your number one focus, there are a couple of things to consider. Carbon steel does have the disadvantage that it can rust; however, it has some strengths that more than compensate for this inconvenience.

Carbon steel can strike a spark off of flint or a ferrocerium rod with ease. If you’re stuck in the wilderness in the dead of winter with no matches, this can be a lifesaver. Combine a carbon steel blade with a flat spine along the back of the knife, and you’ll have a knife that makes an excellent fire-starting tool when coupled with a ferro rod.

Stainless steel blades are best protected from rust and make for a quality blade as well. There are dozens of arguments on which steel holds the best edge, and you could probably even go as far as to definitively prove which steel is the best choice for maintaining an edge, but the fact remains: a knife requires sharpening and maintenance. Even the best knives will need sharpening. Keep this in mind when deciding which type of steel you choose to carry, because the type of sharpening system you’ll need may vary.

Blade design

Drop point, tanto, partially serrated. There are enough options in blade design to make your head spin. To further complicate things, most manufacturers will offer the same model knife with a myriad of different blade designs. Don’t let this hold you back, and don’t pick the one you think looks the coolest—stick to the plan of buying the knife that suits your purpose.

Here is an image link that will describe a whole mess of different blade styles for you. The only thing I want to note is that the knives bearing serrations (clip point, tanto point, spear point, and needlepoint) are not necessarily the rule for that category.

A majority of knives are offered with a partially serrated blade, which can be an excellent feature, but buying a clip-point knife may not automatically mean it will be partially serrated.​

Easily sharpened, holds an edge well

It’s also important that your knife holds its sharp edge well and that it sharpens easily. Although you might not know which will do that from studying the knives in the stores, the following tactical knife product roundup should give you some idea.

Of course, we can’t decide which knife suits your exact needs—so what we’ve done is select five of our favorite knives which fall into the tactical category. We’ll give you an overview of each one, this should open the door for you to decide which products best suit your needs.

Top 5 Best Tactical Knives on the Market

SOG Force Fixed Blade

  • Type of blade: Carbon steel blade
  • Blade length: 4.1 inch
  • Blade thickness: .08 inch
  • Weight with sheath: 3.9 oz.
  • Type of grip: High-friction patterned grip
  • Type of tang: 3/4 tang

Made in Sweden, the world-renowned Morakniv brand of knives are a favorite for many outdoorsmen. Simple, strong, and so affordable you may feel guilty—it’s easy to see what makes theCompanion knife so heavily preferred for bushcraft and outdoor use.

Since this product roundup is catered to a budget-minded buyer, we felt like finding a knife that offered a ton of value was necessary. Morakniv is a no frills knife maker, and although this knife is unusually inexpensive, it’s an unmistakably well-made piece of kit.

It may not be wrapped in paracord, be coated black, or come with a web-gear sheath, but the Companion is a quality knife that has a textured grip and flat spine along the back of the steel which makes for an excellent fire-starting knife.​ You may also try SOG Force Fixed Blade as a hunting knife.

SOG Force Fixed Blade

Things We Liked

  • Very affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Sharpens easily and stays sharp
  • Great for cutting wood, carving, and shaving tinder
  • Comfortable, safe grip
  • Sheath holds knife securely
  • Sheath has drain hole to keep knife dry and prevent corrosion
  • High hardness blade
  • Performs well in wet and cold conditions without slipping
  • The spine can strike sparks with flint if it’s filed with square

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Requires conditioning to keep blade from rusting
  • Not full tang
  • Spine is rounded and will not spark well without filing down square

This particular knife comes with a matching durable plastic sheath. The handle of the knife is military green and black, and it fits comfortably in your grip without fear of slipping. The simple lines of this knife don’t bring to mind images of exotic warriors wielding curved scimitars, or black ops agents fast-roping into a building with suppressed weapons. That’s really not a bad thing, though; for outdoorsmen and women who are more interested in a carrying tool that sharpens easily and gets real work done, than a high-design low-function knife that makes them feel like they crawled off the cover of a Tom Clancy novel, this knife is perfect.


ESEE Knives

  • Type of blade: 1095 High Carbon Steel
  • Blade length: 6.5 inches
  • Blade thickness: .188” inches
  • Weight: 12oz (without sheath)
  • Type of grip: Micarta scales
  • Type of tang: Full extended tang

When it comes to quality knives for extreme uses, ESEE is a name that comes up frequently.

ESEE Knives 6P

Their top-quality materials, paired with quality design place their products in the upper echelon of knife makers.

The ESEE Knives 6P Fixed Blade Knife comes into the market with a price tag that places at the top of our budget-minded gear section, but the quality is so great that we feel it is worth mentioning. As of this article the 6P-B will demand $136 of your dollars, although we feel like this is a knife you could realistically use for at least ten years. It evens out in the long run.

Things We Liked

  • Full tang makes it extremely durable
  • Molded sheath is a great fit
  • Color options are available
  • No questions asked lifetime warranty on all 1095 carbon steel knives
  • Warranty transfers so the knife is literally covered for life
  • Lanyard loop in pommel
  • Jimping along sping provides texture for thumb grip

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Slightly heavy
  • Will rust on the edge and a long laser engraving if not properly maintained
  • Moderately high price

While not everyone is looking for a knife that is an investment, we strongly feel that the ESEE 6P-B is an excellent offering in the tactical or survival knife market. This knife should be on your radar if your needs include camping, hiking, hunting, or plain survival.


Becker Fixed Blade

  • Type of blade: 1095 Cro-van steel
  • Blade length: 5.5 inches
  • Blade thickness: 1/4 inch
  • Weight with sheath: 1.5 lbs.
  • Type of grip: Grivory
  • Type of tang: Full, extended tang

Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade is a powerhouse of a knife that’s been loved by outdoor enthusiasts and military service members alike. A quality knife that could be used for both self-defense, and survival in the wilderness.

KA-BAR Becker BK2

 

Things We Liked

  • Razor-sharp
  • Heavy duty
  • Excellent sheath that won’t retain moisture
  • Versatile
  • Great for prying, digging, skinning, or defense
  • Ergonomic
  • Thick blade is highly durable
  • Tough Grivory handle holds survival items
  • Extended tang can be used as a chisel

Things We Didn’t Like

  • More expensive
  • Not lightweight
  • Shorter blade isn’t suited for batoning larger wood

Although the Ka-Bar Becker BK2 Campanion Fixed Blade Knife holds a moderate price tag, it’s backed by years of expertise in defensive knife making. Ka-Bar is widely known for making military fighting knives, and a lof of that tough durability has carried over into their other models, like the BK2. We consider this Ka-Bar to be a great bridge between the budget knives and the exclusive brands that can cost well into the hundreds of dollars.


SOG Force Knife

  • Type of blade: AUS-8
  • Blade length: 6 inches
  • Blade thickness: .24 inches
  • Weight without sheath: 10.5 oz.
  • Type of grip: Textured glass-reinforced nylon grip with glass-breaking point
  • Type of tang: Full tang

If you are looking to get a knife that is just plain tough, the Sog Force may be as far as you need to look. Opening the presentation box you’ll be met with a black TiNi coating. In our opinion, if you’re looking for a knife that screams “tactical” this may be exactly what you’ve been after.

Things We Liked

  • Protective TiNi coating
  • Sheath is ready for MOLLE attachment
  • Minimal grind
  • High hardness rating
  • Grip works well in winter and wet conditions
  • Limited lifetime warranty
  • Durable but remains lightweight
  • Nonreflective surfaces
  • Excellent reputation in military applications
  • Cryogenic heat treatment

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Extreme design and hardness may make for more difficult sharpening
  • Dark design may be harder to find in low light applications
  • Thicker blade may make intricate jobs tricky
  • Price is very close to the $100 mark

The SOG SE38-N Force knife is a perfect example of a tactical knife from the perspective of a military operator. A soldier, police officer, or perhaps civilian contractor might very well set out to find an extremely durable knife that can last through an extended trip into the field without requiring much in the way of maintenance.

The rugged design, special hardening process, and stealthy look definitely lend themselves easily to special operations. The extended tang is formed into a glass-breaker, and there is also a lanyard hole.

If you’re in the market for a tactical knife that will see heavy use in the field—not just starting fires or chopping wood—the SOG Force is the one for you.


Ontario Knife 8870

  • Type of blade: AUS-8
  • Blade length: 3.5 inches
  • Overall length: 8.5 inches
  • Type of grip: G10

Sometimes having a quality knife can be cumbersome. The option to neatly fold your knife and pack it up, or stow it in a pocket could be a benefit to a hiker who is looking for a low-drag setup to make movement easier. Enter the Ontario Knife 8870 folder.

Ontario Knife 8870

Things We Liked

  • Good price for a high-end folder
  • The ergonomic handle has finger grooves for comfort and stability
  • Great for Everyday Carry (EDC)
  • Satin finish blade
  • Tactical Assist Opening (T.A.O.)
  • The pocket clip can be configured four ways
  • G10 handle provides grip

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Folding design adds weight
  • A smaller blade isn’t suited for large tasks
  • Locking blade may be a hassle

Ontario Knife Company is a brand known for making exceptional products, albeit some folks would say they are a bit plain in design. We’re ok with that, we want a knife to perform well—how it looks just isn’t a factor when choosing a blade—we save our style expertise for selecting our sweater to wear to your next Christmas party.

A smaller package than a fixed blade knife, the RAT-1A makes for a good piece of kit for a handful of applications. The assisted opening is lightning quick and gets your steel into the game in a hurry. For EDC, and even self-defense, this is a great option that doesn’t break the bank​


The Best Tactical Knife of Them All

Each of these tactical knives are stellar option for a host of scenarios and applications. It’s up to the end-user to decide which knife is the absolute best choice for them. In the task of bringing our readers an excellent tactical knife for a good price, we’ve really had our work cut out for us. Seeing as each person has a different reason for carrying a knife, we’ve opted to recommend the knife that does the most.

Our favorite of them all is the SOG SE38-N Force Knife. Here’s our reasoning:​

  1. It is priced below $100 which makes it attainable for many buyers.
  2. The razor-sharp edge stays sharp thanks to the special hardening process.
  3. The extended tang has a glass-breaking point on it, which can be used to break your way into—or out of—a lot of scenarios. We’re not saying you should be breaking into anything, but you never know when you need to get into a burning building to rescue a family or their cat.
  4. The matching sheath is durable and secures your gear very well.
  5. SOG’s reputation in the military and special operations community carries this product directly into the higher tier of knives—especially for someone looking to get their hands on quality tactical equipment.

Understand, this knife does have drawbacks. Being a bit on the pricey side, it may take a bit of saving for this knife to fall into your budget. On top of the price, the hurdle is the size. A larger knife can be a bit trickier to use for more intricate tasks—but all in all this knife offers so many features and covers so many potential scenarios, it’s no wonder SOG’s knives find their way into the kits of so many military, police, and government operators.

Regardless of which type of knife you should choose, remember that it’s always best to understand what danger may potentially lurk in your particular area, and prepare yourself for it. Any one of these knives should afford you the ability to survive or defend yourself, in some of the most difficult circumstances. Not only that; you’ll likely find that putting your new steel to good use is just plain fun as you head out into the field, equipped for whatever may come your way.​

Top Boots for Hunting

Whether it’s your first time to go hunting with grandpa or it’s your first time taking your grandson to your favorite hunting spot, all hunters – novice and expert alike – agree quickly that one of the most important pieces of gear you’ll need is a pair of quality hunting boots. No one is perfect, and even the best hunters sometimes show up with the wrong gear. Having inadequate, or otherwise inappropriate boots can be the beginning of a story that ends in icy toes—or even a trip to the hospital.

Quality Hunting Boots: More Than Just an Afterthought

Whether you’re the type to spend your hunting hours high in a tree stand waiting for that trophy buck, or sloshing through all manner of undergrowth with your dogs who are pursuing that coon, the last thing you need to be concerned with is the quality, comfort, or dependability of your hunting boots.

Have you ever worn your slippers outside to get the mail, or chase your beloved family dog across the yard for digging in the garden for the seventh time that week? Maybe you’ve got a pair of sandals you love to wear, but you’ve been caught out in the rain a few times and had to rush to your car to crank the heater on your feet. Having the wrong footwear for the occasion is never a comfortable experience, and you don’t want to experience this out in the woods.

Every bit as important as which weapon you choose to carry, a properly chosen pair of hunting boots can prevent your dream from turning into a nightmare. Unfortunately, since there are so many different potential hunting situations, it’s impossible to pick a hunting boot that meets the demands of every conceivable hunting scenario. Instead, it’s important you understand which type of boot is the most desirable for your unique circumstances. Here are four of the most important things you should consider as you shop for your ideal hunting boots.

Cold Weather Hunting: It’s All About the Insulation

Whether you’re blessed to live in the temperate beauty of Tennessee or you’re a hardy Northerner roughing it in the cold stretches bordering Canada, there’s no getting around the fact that leaving your feet unprotected in the dead of winter is asking for trouble. No matter how great a hunter you may be, you’re bound to be tempted to give up hunting after a bout of frostbite threatens your ability to walk.

Although uninsulated boots can be retrofitted with some snug innersoles, for serious hunters who plan to spend a great deal of the winter months outdoors, it’s hard to beat the careful design of some of the best-insulated hunting boots.

Before purchasing any pair of boots, especially insulated boots, it’s important to remember that boots must be purchased with plenty of room for heavy hunting socks. If you go shopping for boots wearing thin casual or sports socks and forget that you’ll be wearing much thicker socks on your hunt, chances are your boots will fit tighter than you remember once you’re bundled up to head out into the field.

Warm Weather Hunting: It’s All About the Comfort

It’s amazing how quickly we can forget about the wintertime necessity for warm, thickly insulated boots when we wear those same heavy boots in the heat of the summer. When the threat of heatstroke is a very real concern and you still have miles of terrain to cover, the last thing you need to be considering is whether or not you should take off your weighty boots and just go barefoot.

Depending on the terrain, an uninsulated boot can double as everyday footgear in many cases. If you do most of your hunting in the warm months and only rarely go out in the winter, you might be able to get by with just a pair of uninsulated boots and some quality insoles for the wintertime.

In the safety department, hunters who find themselves out and about in snake country may be concerned with preventing lethal attacks from reptiles. It’s important to calculate what risks you may encounter in the woods so you can choose your gear accordingly.

Rocky Terrain Hunting: It’s All About the Support

If you plan to do much hunting in the mountains or over rocky terrain, it’s crucial you get appropriate footwear. When much of your time will be spent traversing the rough country with sharp stones cutting into the front of your boots, you’ll be thankful you took the time to search for a boot that’s as tough as you are, and is designed to withstand this hellish environment.

Mountain boots are specially designed with inflexible soles that will support your entire weight, even when all you have is a toehold. Many designs offer sharp edges that can help bite into soft dirt, giving you support that you’d never achieve with boots with rounded soles. Mountain boots also may provide a strong rubber front that keeps rocks from chewing through the tops of the leather boots.

When selecting mountain boots, not only is it important to remember that you’ll need to leave room for socks; you’ll also need to remember to leave plenty of space for your toes. As you climb up rocks and then go down again, the last thing you’ll want is blisters caused by too-snug boots.

Swampland Hunting: It’s All About the Waterproofing

For hunters who know that part of their valuable outdoor time will be spent sloshing through streams and swamps, a good pair of muck boots can make all the difference in the world. If you fit into this category, you’ll greatly benefit from the waterproof protection of these tall boots that you can tuck your pants into and not have to worry about weighing yourself down by taking on water.

Many of these waterproof boots reach higher than your knees, and hip waders are also a great option for hunters who never know exactly how deep the water may be where they find themselves. Take my friend, the one who found himself blindly chasing his coon hounds into a manure lagoon – he was thanking God for hip waders, and his wife was too when he got home to tell her the story.

Another different spin on swampland hunting is the Vietnam War-style jungle boots. Although these boots will allow your feet to get wet, they also dry quickly and offer excellent support and slip resistance. Other marshland hunters appreciate the protection of snake boots, which are durable enough to protect your feet from snakebites.

5 Best Hunting Boots on the Market

Kamik Men’s Boot

For hunters who are looking for well-insulated waterproof boots that don’t succumb to the cold of winter, Kamik Men’s Nationplus Boot can offer exceptional protection.

Cost: Affordable

Editor’s Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Easy on, easy off fit
  • Can be paired with ultra-heavy socks for even the coldest conditions
  • The wider top allows you to tuck in the pants leg
  • Moisture-wicking lining keeps feet warm and dry
  • The rust-proof speed-lacing system keeps laces in good condition
  • Rubber sole prevents slippage
  • Quality leather construction
  • 200B Thinsulate keeps boots toasty without weighing them down
  • Leather-and-Rubber upper feature prevents boots from taking in moisture; also protects leather
  • 10″ shaft keeps leg warm even in deep snow

Things We Didn’t Like

  • As the lining compresses, the sizing of the boots may be affected
  • Sole is quite thin; an additional liner may be needed to add to the comfort and increase the warmth
  • Sizes tend to run on the small side, especially when you add heavy socks

For most hunters, the Kamik Nationplus Boot offers excellent cold protection at a moderate price. Since these boots aren’t strictly hunting boots, they can double as everyday wear for those living in the far northern climates.


Danner Pronghorn Hunting Boot

Hunters who are looking for lightweight, breathable, comfortable hunting boots that offer excellent support, and dependable traction, may find Danner Pronghorn Hunting Boot a rugged choice that offers all-around versatility.

Cost: Moderate to Expensive

Editor’s Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Full-grain CamoHide leather construction allows these to function attractively anywhere, not just in the woods
  • Nylon shank keeps feet cool
  • Three-density Ortholite footbed offers comfort for the long haul
  • Gore-Tex membrane offers waterproof breathability
  • Pronghorn outsole provides excellent traction
  • Wide toe allows for foot swelling after hours of hiking
  • Paired with heavy socks and/or insulated innersoles, these can make fine winter boots
  • Loop in the back makes them easy to pull on
  • Sole is sewn tightly into the leather, making for a strong seal

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Imported
  • Toe and sole can be stiff and unyielding
  • Can be a bit difficult to break-in

The Danner Pronghorn Hunting Boots are a great choice for hunters who understand the need for lightweight comfort. While these boots may take some time to break in for some people, the durable nature of these boots offers confidence for hunters planning to traverse rather a difficult terrain. For those planning to cover long distances on foot, the Danner Pronghorn was designed to make footwear a nonissue.


Kenetrek Hunting Boots

If you plan to spend much time hunting on rocky slopes, Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Hunting Boots offers excellent support and stability. Unlike other types of hunting, mountain hunts often require you to carry heavy loads over craggy terrain, and it’s vital that your footgear is up to the challenge. These boots are designed to provide heavy-duty endurance, and although they may be a bit too heavy duty to wear to work every day, they’re perfect for dominating dangerous climbs.

Cost: A bit on the pricey side​

Editor’s Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Leather, with reinforced rubber sole and rubber upper to protect the leather from abrasions
  • 7 mm nylon midsoles offer crucial support, reinforced by steel shanks
  • Waterproof boots don’t sacrifice breathability; Wind-tex flexible membrane keeps things comfortable
  • Minimal front stitching keeps boots strong even after heavy climbing and rough abrasions
  • 2.8 mm full grain leather uppers provide one-piece waterproof protection

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Arch can seem a bit high at first
  • The boots are not insulated, so keep that in mind in cold climates
  • The heels can rub if your foot fits a bit snug
  • Like most mountain boots, the soles are very inflexible

Although the Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Hunting Boots are probably not suited for everyday wear, they are hard to beat for mountain deer hunting. With their tough, rugged design that’s ready for the roughest hike, these boots offer excellent support and strength.


Assuming you’re going to be spending more time tromping through the waterways than sitting in a tree stand, these Bog Classic Break Up Boots offer excellent waterproof protection, even if they aren’t the warmest boots on the market. For hunters who live in warmer climates, the fact that these boots are uninsulated is a big plus.

Cost: Affordable​

Editor’s Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Rubber boots
  • Realtree, Mossy Oak, or Mossy Oak New Breakup camouflage
  • Knee-high design keep your legs high and dry, even in deeper water
  • Four-way stretch inner bootie helps keep your foot secure
  • 16″ boot opening
  • 1” Heel with excellent tread design

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Imported
  • Not designed for upland or tree stand use
  • Uninsulated; without extremely heavy socks, won’t be good in freezing temperatures

For hunters who never know where the hunt will take them, it’s always a good idea to have a pair of waterproof rubber boots in the truck – just in case. The waterproof protection of these Bogs Classic High Boots can make all the difference in the world between coming home exhausted with muddy pants, shriveled toes, and soaked socks—and coming home exhilarated, thinking only of the excitement of the hunt.


If you hunt in an area where snakes are thick, you’ll have a hard time finding a better boot than the LaCrosse Adder Scent 18 HD Snake Boot. Saving your life isn’t usually what boot manufacturers are considering, but these snake boots are designed to do just that by withstanding the lethal bite from most snakes.

Not only are these boots great for preventing these snake bites; they are also excellent as all-around boots. Their height helps keep you comfortable and dry, and the Mossy Oak camo pattern, scent protection, and easy-on fit make these boots desirable for any hunter.

Cost: Moderate

LaCrosse Adder Scent 18 HD Snake Boot

Editor’s Rating:

Things We Liked

  • Leather and fabric construction
  • Easy to pull on using handles
  • Knee-high boots
  • The adjustable top strap keeps boots snug
  • Close, comfortable fit
  • Break-in easily
  • Handsome Mossy Oak Infinity camo pattern
  • Advanced scent technology keeps your feet fresh for hours

Things We Didn’t Like

  • Imported
  • Can be hard to take off
  • Pull-on handle openings can allow the brush to fall into boots

As long as you don’t mind wearing a knee-high boot, it’s very likely that these LaCrosse Adder Scent Snake Boots may just fit the bill for you even if you rarely ever encounter snakes.


Our Favorite Hunting Boot of Them All

As you’ve already seen, it’s very difficult to pick one hunting boot for every occasion since there are so many variables involved in each different hunt. Still, if you were seeking a single hunting boot that could perform best in the widest range of conditions, you’d have a hard time beating the LaCrosse Adder Scent Snake Boots. Why? Here’s our rationale for naming these the best-hunting boots of them all:

  1. The excellent fit and quick break-in period is exactly what every boot owner desires. Of course, each person is different, but generally speaking, the snug design of these boots offers exceptional comfort – even if they can be a bit tricky to remove.
  2. The advanced scent technology is a great bonus for these boots. As most hunters know, hunting for hours and even days at a time in the same boots can make for some foul-smelling feet. Anything that can keep hunters’ feet feeling and smelling decent deserves attention.
  3. Obviously, the tough, anti-snake feature is huge. Although like most snake boots, these boots are on the stiff side, the benefit of foot safety is well worth it.
  4. Although they aren’t advertised as such, many hunters appreciate the waterproof nature of these boots.
  5. While these boots aren’t cold weather boots per se, it’s easy to purchase them a bit large and add plenty of layers underneath to keep warm even in winter. Especially if you’re moving, these boots should be plenty warm enough for many hunters who don’t live in the extreme north.

Of course, each of these boots has its place. By understanding the requirements of each potential hunting scenario in which you may find yourself, you can have a much easier time deciding exactly which boot is right for you.

We hope you’ve enjoyed these hunting boots reviews. Whether you spend your hunting hours trudging knee-deep through snow or plunging into stagnant swamp water, it’s very wise to understand the differences in boot types before you decide which to buy. Always remember: For hunters, wisdom is more important than weapons or boots. Happy hunting!

For more information discussing which type of boot best fits which hunting scenario, check out this helpful video.

How To Make Every Shot Count For Deer Hunting

Is there a best place to shoot a deer?

When you shoot at a deer, the aim is to mortally wound. Once you’ve locked your scope upon the downrange deer, is there a best place to aim? The question of where to shoot a deer while hunting comes up frequently. Are you potentially wasting ammunition, as well as risking the deer running off, by aiming for a small target like the head when the chest could be just as effective? Are deer constantly running off after an errant body shot?

As someone who cares very deeply about deer hunting as well as all the deer that call the forest home, I feel it is imperative to make hunting easier both for us as the hunters and the deer as the prey. A grazed deer that runs off into the woods to die a week later does nothing for you. With that in mind, here are some tips to making every shot count

Are there better places than others to shoot a deer?

Absolutely. A shot to the head is going to be much more effective at bringing down the deer than a shot to the leg. When looking at a deer lengthwise in front of you, the front half is nearly always a better option than the back half.

Is there a definitive “best” place?

When it comes to this question, the answer starts to get more complicated, eventually coming down to personal preference and ability. The two main answers to the question are the brain and just above the heart, known in some circles as the epicenter.

Why the brain?

The brain is the center of all life in a deer. A well-placed shot to the brain will immediately incapacitate the animal, resulting in death in less than a minute. If you’re unable to get a direct shot through the front of the head, a side shot or shot from the rear at the top of the spinal column will yield similar results.

Why not the brain?

The biggest negative when it comes to aiming for the brain is the small target that it provides. An inch or two too high left or right, and the bullet could miss the deer completely. All you’ll have to show for your work is the sound of hooves disappearing into the thicket.

Why above the heart?

The area directly above the heart of a deer in the center of the circulatory system. The heart, lungs, and several major blood vessels can be found in the vicinity of that area. A well-placed shot will have the deer down in a few moments. Contrary to shooting at the brain, there is room for several inches of when aiming above the heart. Hitting above the heart is also the most humane option for killing a deer.

Why not above the heart?

When faced head-on with a deer, taking aim at the heart may not be your best option. The ribs, shoulders, and sternum are quite thick, protecting the heart and the lungs. If your bullet fails to pierce this area, your prized deer will go scampering off.

You can find a plethora of evidence supporting either side.

When it comes to improving your shot regardless of whether you’ve chosen to focus on the brain or focus on the heart is a target practice. Head to Amazon; You’ll find a wide array of potential target options.

The Practical Guide To Elk Hunting

The Practical Guide To Elk Hunting is published for anyone who is serious about bettering their elk hunting techniques.

It is influenced by lessons learned from hunting elk over a forty-year period. This book is so helpful to those just starting up as well as more skillful hunters, gun hunters and bow hunters alike.

Rx for Deer Hunting Success

This Rx for Deer Hunting Success book gives a collection of in-depth coverage on all tactics used to hunt whitetail deer consistently and successfully.

The author’s real-world hunting plans will benefit both the newbie and the experienced deer hunter. Just about every chapter is specifically constructed to give readers with improved abilities as a result of revolutionary tips, and ideas to help get their deer hunting success to the next level.

Hunting Big Mule Deer

Whether you’re considering your first Western hunting adventure or you’ve already been bitten by the trophy mule deer bug, you will get from this book, a great system of successful tips and techniques, along with a renewed vitality to seek lonesome mountain tops in pursuit of the buck of a lifetime. Hunting Big Mule Deer is really a must-read book for hunting enthusiasts.

Hunting Big Mule DeerDepending on whether you prefer rifles, bows or throwing knives, you can find copious amounts of information on youtube. The majority of videos found on youtube are compilations of deer kills, providing a wide range of examples on what results from hitting different areas of a deer. These are useful for inspiration.

When looking across the deluge of information available on the subject, the two best options in the eyes of the experts are the brain and just above the heart. I would recommend aiming above the heart. Given the margin of error allowed by such a shot, as well as the longer-lasting and better-tasting venison that results from a quick bleed out, it is the superior choice.

Related Products:

SOG Specialty Knives & Tools

SOG Specialty Knives & Tools is a water-resistant backpack perfect for day-to-day traveling, and hiking; modular style and design with a big main compartment, front zippered pocket, and a lot more.

SOG Specialty Knives ToolsCarries perfectly on your shoulders with yoke-style adjustable, cushioned straps and changeable sternum slider; contoured foam back with several air routes. Tactical elements include MOLLE webbing for connecting a variety of optional gear; tubing port for accessing the hydration bladder pocket.

Carhartt Rugged Flex

Carhartt Men’s Rugged Flex Rigby Camo Dungaree Pant is a robust stretch product for ease of mobility both on and off the job site. This fabric technology provides standards for stretch and recovery so your gear is constantly in shape.

Right-leg attached mobile phone pocket, keeps you hands-free and phone close and protected. Tougher sewn-on-seam belt loops add protection from depreciation.

220Pcs Emergency Survival Kit

This 220Pcs Emergency Survival Kit is an exceptionally handy and practical professional emergency tactical kit, equipped with several kinds of life-saving gear, which can meet your unforeseen scenarios and healthcare needs.

220Pcs Emergency SurvivalGet this specialized survival kit for yourself, friends or family, and enjoy the travel and adventure.

I welcome any comments or questions that you may have after reading this. More fruitful hunting will result just follow these steps:
• Buy some targets
• Practice, practice, practice
• Aim for the heart
• Enjoy better-tasting venison and less chasing down a runaway deer

Top Caliber for Deer Hunting

When it comes to deer hunting rifles, you can’t just point to one of them and say this one is the best. It takes more than that to fully understand the rifle. Besides that everyone has their own preferences about what they exactly want from a rifle.

Some people like to have a good grip, others like big caliber rifles, and there are people who need a scope on their gun for better aiming. In this article, we will concentrate on the caliber.

What is a caliber (if you don’t know it by now)?

Caliber is the measurement of the barrel’s diameter. They can be in the range of .17 to .458. The ones that are used the most among the deer hunters are around .30 caliber.

Never-ending question

When you pose the question: “What is the best caliber for deer hunting?” the answers are widely different.

As Ace Luciano, the expert in ammunition said :

“The best answer to the question is the caliber that you have available; in a gun that you have access to that you shoot well so that you can place a bullet exactly where it will perform the best.“

You have deer hunters who are assuring you that the large, heavier caliber is the one to have, and they won’t ever go the other way. Other ones would trust their life to lighter, smaller caliber, and faster bullets.

The matter of preferences

It is rather a personal preference, but of course, there is a large room left for debate. When on a hunting trip, starting a talk about the best caliber will turn into a heated argument that will last all night. And of course, there will be some wild points about some research that was conducted somewhere. But we will try to stick to the facts.

deer hunting calibre

Caliber is the main thing you look for when buying a rifle for deer hunting. Deer is an animal with thin skin and has light bones. That means that you don’t need big heavy ammo to hunt deer as long as you can place your shots cleanly.

 

The following are the best calibers, that can be found in deer hunter’s barrels.

.45-70 Government

This old dog from 1873 has still a lot to offer. This bad boy is a match for any Big Game in North America, under the condition you stay within its range limitations.

But frankly, you can use it to hunt almost anything, from birds to elephants, and that is why people like it even today. Also, it will not destroy edible meat on a deer due to the bullet’s low velocity.

The 45/70 can also be a long-range caliber, but in that case you need to poses knowledge about windage & elevation.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

300 (Trapdoor) Lead PB

1,597 ft/s (487 m/s)

1,699 ft·lbf (2,304 J)

405 (Trapdoor) Lead FN

1,394 ft/s (425 m/s)

1,748 ft·lbf (2,370 J)

300 (Standard) JHP

2,069 ft/s (631 m/s)

2,852 ft·lbf (3,867 J)

300 (Strong) JHP

2,275 ft/s (693 m/s)

3,449 ft·lbf (4,676 J)

7mm-08 Remington

This one is a .308 Winchester case necked down to accept 7 mm bullets with a small increase in case length. Of cartridges based upon the .308, it is the third most popular behind only the .243 Winchester, the .308 is more popular than both. We will talk about these later.

Most hunter praises it’s very efficient case design and a bullet weight range that makes him a fine choice for your all-around hunting. If you have (or want) a lightweight, short-action rifle, 7mm – 08 Remington will be a perfect partner in crime for her.

 

The true core of this caliber is given by Howard Brant of Shooting Industry magazine who wrote:

“The 7mm-08 is a real sleeper as far as the hunting field is concerned. It is a grand caliber that packs more than sufficient wallop to efficiently down all medium-sized big-game animals found in North America and elsewhere. “

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

140 gr (9 g) Nosler Partition

2,800 ft/s (850 m/s)

2,437 ft·lbf (3,304 J)

150 gr (10 g) Speer Hot-Cor SP

2,650 ft/s (810 m/s)

2,339 ft·lbf (3,171 J)

.243 Winchester (also known as the 6.14x51mm)

A reliable cartridge that was first introduced in 1955 for the Winchester Model 70 bolt-action rifle, and since then it quickly gained popularity among sportsmen worldwide. Just about every major manufacturer offers rifles chambered in .243. And that says a lot about it.

At that time it was a ground-breaking development of the day, with a combination of useful lightweight (70 to 85 grain bullets) optimized for long-range performance and 90 to 105 grain bullets suitable for game up to the size of deer.

It is powerful enough for any deer that you can encounter and produces small recoil and has a nice flat trajectory.

If you are interested in ballistic performances, here they are.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

55 gr (4 g) BT

4,058 ft/s (1,237 m/s)

1,699 ft·lbf (2,304 J)

65 gr (4 g) BT

3,746 ft/s (1,142 m/s)

1,748 ft·lbf (2,370 J)

75 gr (5 g) HP

3,447 ft/s (1,051 m/s)

2,852 ft·lbf (3,867 J)

90 gr (6 g) SP

3,203 ft/s (976 m/s)

3,449 ft·lbf (4,676 J)

105 gr (7 g) BT

2,986 ft/s (910 m/s)

2,080 ft·lbf (2,820 J)

Also there is an improved version of this cartridge called the .243 Winchester Improved that gives you 10% more powder capacity, and improvement in velocity, which is again not that big.

.30-06 Springfield or 30 Gov’t 06

The “.30” refers to the caliber of the bullet, and the “06” refers to the year the cartridge was adopted—1906. Although old caliber it is still among the top choices for deer hunters. This is a truly versatile cartridge that does its work with little fuss.

Like .243 Winchester, the most fabric rifles are chambered for .30-06. Maybe it isn’t so fancy like other calibers, but it hits pretty hard. Due to heavy bullets, you have a big amount of recoil, so it isn’t the top choice for beginners, but when you get used to it, you can be on the top of your game.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

150 gr (10 g) Nosler Ballistic Tip

2,910 ft/s (890 m/s)

2,820 ft·lbf (3,820 J)

165 gr (11 g) BTSP

2,800 ft/s (850 m/s)

2,872 ft·lbf (3,894 J)

180 gr (12 g) Core-Lokt Soft Point

2,700 ft/s (820 m/s)

2,913 ft·lbf (3,949 J)

200 gr (13 g) Partition

2,569 ft/s (783 m/s)

2,932 ft·lbf (3,975 J)

220 gr (14 g) RN

2,500 ft/s (760 m/s)

2,981 ft·lbf (4,042 J)

.308 Winchester

.308 Winchester trough the years, has become the most popular big game hunting caliber in the world. It is also used for civilian target shooting, military sniping.

Also, its short case makes the .308 Winchester extremely adapted for short-action rifles. Sure it is not the trendiest caliber on the market, but it is very practical in a reality-based world.

The .308 Winchester has slightly more drop at long range than the .30-06 Springfield that we talked about earlier, owing that to lower muzzle velocity with most bullet weights. It is accurate, very pleasant to shoot, and it will get the job done if you don’t go above the 400 yards.

You can, but then you have to be on the top of your game. Easy to find, relatively cheap, and every deer hunter will recommend you this one.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

150 gr (10 g) Nosler tip

2,820 ft/s (860 m/s)

2,648 ft·lbf (3,590 J)

165 gr (11 g) BTSP

2,700 ft/s (820 m/s)

2,671 ft·lbf (3,621 J)

168 gr (11 g) BTHP

2,700 ft/s (820 m/s)

2,630 ft·lbf (3,570 J)

175 gr (11 g) BTHP

2,645 ft/s (806 m/s)

2,720 ft·lbf (3,690 J)

185 gr (12 g) Lapua Mega JSP

2,510 ft/s (770 m/s)

2,588 ft·lbf (3,509 J)

.270 Winchester

One of the reasons that gets many deer hunters to use exactly this one is that gun writer Jack O’Connor, who was using the caliber for 40 years, had only the top words about it in his book Outdoor Life.

Although it was not an immediate success upon its release, over the succeeding decades the .270 Winchester attained great popularity among gun owners and especially hunters, ranking it among the most popular and widely used calibers in the world.

Of course it’s not the fame that made this caliber popular. .270 Winchester is an accurate caliber, you can find it almost anywhere, very easy to load, has a rarely seen remarkable velocity and although you would expect a big recoil, it is smooth. Shooting is flat, and you can easily go beyond 600 yards with it.

The bullet will hit where you are aiming even on the running deer. The increased velocity also has a shocking impact on deer when they are hit, he won’t go away too far. For open country hunting, every experienced hunter will tell you: “Use .270 Winchester, there is no mistake here, or blank shots”.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

90 gr (6 g) HP

3,603 ft/s (1,098 m/s)

2,595 ft·lbf (3,518 J)

130 gr (8 g) SP

3,060 ft/s (930 m/s)

2,702 ft·lbf (3,663 J)

140 gr (9 g) SP

2,916 ft/s (889 m/s)

2,644 ft·lbf (3,585 J)

150 gr (10 g) SP

2,850 ft/s (870 m/s)

2,706 ft·lbf (3,669 J)

130 gr (8 g) SST

3,200 ft/s (980 m/s)

2,955 ft·lbf (4,006 J)

30-30 Winchester

This classic baby boy from 1895 has taken out more deer than any available caliber out there. Being around for more than 100 years, this can be nothing but a hard proven fact.

American deer hunter enthusiasts would bet that it still kills more deer than any other caliber. And there lays its appeal. As one great gun writer wrote: The .30-30 is the great North American deer cartridge and for good reason. It is a virtually ideal compromise between power and recoil. A 7.5 pound .30-30 rifle shooting the standard 150-grain factory load generates about 11.7 ft. lbs. of recoil energy.

For comparison, a .30-06 rifle of the same weight shooting a 150-grain factory load generates about 21.7 ft. lbs. of recoil energy. Most hunters can shoot the .30-30 well, as its recoil is below the 20 ft. lb. upper limit for sustained use and the 15 ft. lb. maximum that most hunters can shoot comfortably. And you can’t go beyond that.

It is an excellent, medium range caliber that can take out nearly all medium to big game your typical shooting range. This caliber is used by almost all types of deer hunters.

Due its small recoil, women and inexperienced hunter adore the 30-30 Winchester. And it is cheaper than most today’s calibers. So you have everything combined to make this caliber the top choice for all the deer hunters there.

Ballistic performance

Bullet weight/type

Velocity

Energy

110 gr (7 g) FP

2,684 ft/s (818 m/s)

1,760 ft·lbf (2,390 J)

130 gr (8 g) FP

2,496 ft/s (761 m/s)

1,799 ft·lbf (2,439 J)

150 gr (10 g) FN

2,390 ft/s (730 m/s)

1,903 ft·lbf (2,580 J)

160 gr (10 g) cast LFN

1,616 ft/s (493 m/s)

928 ft·lbf (1,258 J)

170 gr (11 g) FP

2,227 ft/s (679 m/s)

1,873 ft·lbf (2,539 J)

Conclusion

It has been a long trip, but we are finally at the end of our journey through the best deer hunting calibers that are on the market. You can continue to argue about them, but at least now you know the hard solid facts about every one of them, that you can use in your favorite game besides the hunting itself.

Like we said on the very start, pointing out to one caliber and saying that one is the best, is not a thing to do. Like most things in life, it is a matter of perception and personal preference.

So figure out what suits you, what exactly you want from your caliber, and then you will have the answer to the question:” Which caliber will I use ?