As a hunter, knowing the nuances of your equipment is essential. One often overlooked component in shotgun hunting is the choke. While understanding the function of a shotgun choke is relatively straightforward, knowing when to use one and how to match it to your type of hunting…
A shotgun may explode due to a catastrophic, high-pressure failure, most commonly caused by a barrel obstruction (mud, snow, or a stuck "squib" wad/shot), using incorrect ammunition (e.g., 12-gauge in a 20-gauge gun), or overloaded/improperly reloaded shells. These issues cause pressure to exceed the barrel's strength. Understanding the potential dangers…
I can appreciate the confusion hunters face when selecting the correct ammunition. When I first started hunting upland birds, considering the different types of ammunition I could use was overwhelming. Which gauge? What shot size for what bird? What shell length? What material should the…
Advances in cartridge design, rifle build quality, and precision optics have given the modern hunter access to unparalleled precision. Today’s long range shooting rifle is a tool that enables a hunter to harvest animals at distances that were once considered unthinkable and unethical. However, to…
The bolt action rifle is a time-tested firearm that hunters have relied on for accuracy, reliability, and simplicity in pursuing big game. Understanding how this classic action design works and why it remains popular among hunters more than a century after its invention can help you determine…
