What To Look For When Choosing A Crossbow Under $500

You might think that when looking for a budget crossbow under $500 that you have to sacrifice certain features or preferences. That isn’t the case, though. You can still be picky. Here are some specific things to look at.

Brand Name

RELATED: Best Crossbow

It’s not always necessary to get a brand name, but in the case of crossbows, certain brands do give you the confidence that they’ll be well crafted. When looking for a budget crossbow, specifically, several name brands help assure you that the low price doesn’t necessarily mean lower quality. These include:

• Barnett
• PSE Archery
• TenPoint (who also make Wicked Ridge models)
• Bowtech/Excalibur
• Bear Archery
• Centerpoint
• Killer Instinct

RELATED: Best Hunting Gear

Compound, Recurve or Reverse Draw

Among the three main types of crossbows, compound models are by far the most common. They provide power and speed without being too bulky. Plus, they minimize draw weight without sacrificing power.

As opposed to compound crossbows, recurve models are much simpler. As a result, they rarely break down, require minimal maintenance and are easier to use. This makes them good for beginners. Their main downside is size, specifically ATA width. They also usually have a bit less power, but this can also be good for beginners.

Reverse-draw crossbows are a newer type of crossbow with a more innovative design that involves, well, drawing the crossbow the opposite way. The advantage is that you get a longer power stroke, which means the bowstring accelerates the bolt for more time, giving you more speed and power with a narrower ATA. They also tend to shoot more quietly.

Unfortunately, reverse-draw models are a bit more complicated to use and are usually more expensive. They’re a better choice for experienced archers looking for something new.

Speed

Crossbow bolt speed, measured in feet per second, or FPS, usually ranges between 300 and 500 FPS and is one of the most important features to look at. While just about any crossbow is fast enough to hunt medium-sized game like deer, you may want a more powerful model for big game like elk, moose or bear.

RELATED: Best Place To Shoot A Deer With A Crossbow

Additionally, while faster bolt speeds give you more range and improve accuracy, they can be hard to handle for beginners, and the effective range of the crossbow does not really change that much. We usually recommend you stay under 400 FPS for your first crossbow, but over 400 is fine if you have some experience.

Draw Weight

Draw weight is less of an issue for crossbows compared to vertical bows because pretty much any crossbow is going to be impossible for someone to cock without some kind of device. However, a lower draw weight may be easier to cock just using a foot stirrup rather than a cocking rope or crank. This is important for archers who don’t have a lot of upper body strength.

Cocking Method

Unless you’re a record-holding powerlifter, you’ll almost certainly need some kind of cocking device to cock your crossbow. The simplest way is with a foot stirrup. By putting your foot through the stirrup, you get leverage that allows you to pull up the bowstring.

However, other methods can make things a lot easier. For example, a cocking rope better distributes the draw weight so it takes less effort to pull up the bowstring.

The easiest way, though, is with a crank. By rotating the crank, you slowly draw back the bowstring with little effort at all. Some crossbow models come with a crank that’s integrated into the frame, a great feature to look for.

A crank also works to decock a crossbow, which makes them that much more valuable.

Safety

Crossbows are dangerous weapons, so safety should always be a priority, doubly so if you’re shopping for a youth or beginner crossbow shooter. Standard safety features include trigger safeties and anti-dry-fire mechanisms that keep the crossbow from releasing the bowstring if there isn’t a bolt loaded. Dry firing can damage a crossbow and even cause it to splinter and injure the shooter.

More advanced safety features include finger wings, trigger guards and even rail sensors. These do their best to prevent your fingers from crossing the plane of the crossbow bowstring which moves so fast that it could potentially cut off your finger.

Accessories

It’s always nice when a crossbow comes with accessories so you don’t have to buy them separately. Essential accessories you should look for so you can start hunting right off the bat include:

• Crossbow bolts
• Scope
• Some kind of cocking method (stirrup, cocking rope or crank)

Of course, some crossbows also come with other accessories that can increase your chances of hunting success. These add a lot of value to the package and include:

• Quiver
• Carrying case
• Sling
• Limb dampeners
• String silencers
• Rail lube

We also want to mention crossbow broadheads. You need hunting broadheads to go hunting, but these are rarely included in hunting packages, even if they come with bolts. If the package does, that’s a great feature.

Warranty

With proper maintenance and care, your crossbow should last for years, but it’s always worth checking the warranty a given crossbow comes with. For one thing, a long warranty lets you buy with the reassurance that you can return or repair it if there is some kind of defect. More importantly, long warranties signal that the manufacturer is confident in their product and has crafted it with care.

Final Thoughts

Even if you’re on a budget, you can still get a crossbow with the features and accessories you need. Our best overall crossbow under $500 is the Wicked Ridge Rampage 360, but the staff here at DeerHuntingGuide.net really love the PSE Archery Fang HD as well.

Make sure you’ve considered all the reviews and how each crossbow might fit your personal hunting needs and situation.

Now it’s time to go buy your favorite crossbow on the list, take it out in your yard and get it sighted in, just in time for the hunting season!

For many years the .380 ACP wasn’t a hugely popular cartridge for concealed carry or home defense, but times are a-changing.

Looking to buy your first .380?

Have one and need to know what to feed it? Let’s take a look at some of my favorite ammunition choices and break down the important facts of ammo selection.

The problem with this is that with so many types of .380 ACP ammo on the market, how do you know which is the best defensive ammunition for you?

We’ve got you covered!

Here’s the current in-stock options:

THE QUICK LIST

Why Should You Trust Us

Travis Pike is an NRA-certified instructor and concealed carry trainer. Drawing on his experience as a Marine infantryman, he uses his knowledge to test and review guns, gear, and ammo for Pew Pew Tactical.

With countless hours behind pistols of all sizes, he knows what ammo works best and which ones are best for concealed carry, plinking, and training.

How to Choose Defensive Ammo

Here are the most important factors to consider when choosing .380 defensive ammunition.

Penetration

Penetration refers to the ability of a projectile to travel through the body, determined by its composition, weight, velocity, and projectile type.

A lead projectile will often bend, break and deform before penetrating deep enough to cause serious harm. The same goes for a round that is too light and too slow.

Ideally, you want a round that can penetrate 12- to 18-inches of 10% ballistic gel.

Expansion

The expansion of projectiles is critical for blood loss and even pain compliance.

The larger a round can expand, the more damage it will do.

When researching expansion for a certain load, know that bigger is always better, but expansion comes second to penetration.

If possible, find how the round expands through ballistic gel after being shot through denim. Denim can cause some rounds to fail at proper expansion.

Reliability

Reliability refers to the round’s ability to expand and penetrate…reliably.

During research, if you see tests where only three out of five rounds penetrate at least 12-inches or fail to expand…that brand might be so reliable.

The reliability factor also applies to the round’s ability to consistently ignite and fire.

Most defensive ammo is high quality, and you’re unlikely to find an established company producing ammo that doesn’t go boom. But stuff happens.

Projectile Type

One of the biggest factors that determine how a round will penetrate and expand is the type of projectile.

The classic bonded jacketed hollow point ammunition has long been a solid performer in both penetration and expansion.

Stay away from FMJ rounds since they do penetrate, but often penetrate way too much. I also advise staying away from gimmick projectiles that look cool but function poorly.

Weight Retention

A projectile’s ability to retain weight after expansion and penetration is a good measure of the round’s ability to deal damage to a vital part of the body.

The more weight retention, the better.

Bullets are measured in grains, so when researching ammunition, look at what the projectile weighs before and after the test.

Barrel Length, Velocity, and Weight

Most .380 ACP handguns are what we call pocket pistols — very small with short barrels. Commonly, these pocket pistols will have a barrel under 3 inches.

This affects the velocity of a projectile, as does the projectile’s weight.

When searching for the best .380 defensive ammo, you need to find a compromise between barrel length, projectile weight, and the round’s velocity. For a pocket pistol, a 90-grain projectile seems to be the heaviest round that penetrates deep enough to strike something critical. These rounds also meet a high enough velocity to expand.

Lighter 77-grain and even 50-grain rounds are fast but often fail to penetrate.

Heavier 102-grain rounds are better suited for handguns with barrels longer than 3.5-inches like the Beretta Cheetah and CZ 83.

Best .380 Ammo for Self Defense

While I won’t name one brand to rule them all, I can make some suggestions based on my personal research into an effective round for my Sig Sauer P238.

For reference, this weapon sports a 2.7-inch barrel.

1. Hornady American Gunner Ammunition 90 Grain .380 ACP

The Hornady American Gunner .380 ACP features the XTP projectile and penetrates very well.

This projectile is really the key to this ammunition’s success.

It offers controlled expansion to allow the round to expand gradually as it travels through the body. This ammo isn’t too expensive and is pretty common.

What’s your take on Hornady’s defensive .380 round? Rate it below!

2. Remington 88 Grain HTP

I’m not going to lie…the biggest reason I was attracted to the HTP loads was the price.

These High Terminal Performance loads come in boxes of 50 and are priced pretty competitively.

The round is a solid performer that penetrates and even expands to an impressive degree.

3. Sig Sauer 90 Grain .380 V-Crown JHP

Testing done by Chris Baker at Lucky Gunner has shown this round to be incredibly effective in both penetration and expansion.

The round has no issue reaching that 12-inch mark and also expands up to half an inch in size.

Sig’s V-Crown ammunition is well-built and surprisingly affordable.

4. Liberty Defense 50 Grain

If you are recoil sensitive, then the Liberty Defense 50-grain rounds are a good choice.

So, if you struggle with the recoil from a traditional round, these bad boys are better than nothing.

Best .380 Ammo for Target Practice & Plinking

5. Prvi Partizan 94 Grain FMJ

Prvi Partizan makes a huge range of ammo, and much of it is odd calibers or calibers that just aren’t in production anymore.

That is how I first started using them with their .303 Brit ammo. Since then, I’ve come to know and respect many of their calibers, and they have become one of my go-to picks for range ammo.

6. Fiocchi 95 Grain FMJ

I’ve never had a problem with Fiocchi; every round has gone bang as it should. However, it’s some of the dirtiest ammo I’ve used.

After 200 rounds of their 9mm, my slide starts to stick. After 300, I need to clean it if I want to keep things running smoothly.

It is still one of the main brands I use for range ammo.

7. PMC Bronze 90 Grain FMJ

If you are looking for reliable ammo that runs relatively clean, PMC Bronze is a great option.

In the current market, PMC ammo has been fairly available while remaining competitively priced.

This is great for those who are looking to plink with solid ammo at a solid price.

8. Sellier & Bellot

Another favorite of the PPT team for range use is Sellier & Bellot.

It’s not built for self-defense purposes, obviously, since it’s FMJ…

But it works well when you want to get some training done at the range.

The Goal of Defensive Ammo

Defensive ammunition is purpose-built. As a civilian concealed carrier or home defender, your goal in any defensive situation is to end the threat.

So, your ammunition should match that goal.

Bullets stop threats in a number of ways.

The first and most unreliable is fear. It relies on criminals thinking, “he has a gun, and he can shoot me.” It doesn’t matter what kind of bullet it is since the very thought of the bullet is enough to end the threat.

Next, we have pain compliance. Pain is subjective to the person being shot. Pain tolerance, the location of the gunshot wound, and the presence of drugs and alcohol in the body all factor into this compliance.

Blood loss can also be an effective means to stop an attacker, depending on where the bullet is placed and the size of the projectile.

Now, when I say the projectile size, I don’t mean the size of the actual bullet before it’s fired. The difference between a .380 ACP and .40 S&W is literally a millimeter in projectile size.

In this case, the projectile size that matters is the size of the round after it expands in the body. Blood loss can take several seconds to several minutes, so it’s not the quickest means to end a threat.

Lastly, trauma to the central nervous system will typically result in the death of an attacker, as well as near-instant incapacitation. This kind of trauma requires a shot to or near the spine, brain, and/or brain stem.

Remember that just because this is the most effective means of stopping an attacker does not mean it is always appropriate or legal to use this level of force.

Make sure you know your state’s laws regarding self-defense.

The round you choose must be able to accomplish these tasks to incapacitate an attacker. A .380 ACP is a lower-powered round, so ammunition selection is even more critical.

Legends and Myths

There are a lot of myths and legends regarding pistol ammunition.

People who believe these myths will often use them to discourage the use of .380 ACP and even 9mm.

To help you sort through the mess, let’s go over the biggest two myths.

Stopping or Knockdown Power

The stopping power myth is so widespread that it has seeped into gun culture. I cringe when I hear someone bring up stopping power because there’s simply no such thing.

The ability of a round to stop an opponent hinges on the shooter’s ability to strike a vital portion of the body and for the round to penetrate deep enough to hit something to incapacitate.

Shot placement and penetration are the keys to stopping an attacker.

A miss with a .45 is still a miss. The heart, lungs, and brain do not know the difference between a .45 and a .380.

Hydrostatic Shock

Hydrostatic shock is a thing, but it’s not something that really occurs with handguns. To achieve hydrostatic shock damage, a projectile has to move at over 2,000 feet per second.

Very few handguns can achieve this speed, and .380 ACP rounds certainly can’t.

Final Thoughts

The .380 round is one some choose for self-defense or just for some fun on the range. Regardless of what you use it for, the right ammo will only help you reach your goals.

We’ve listed out some of our favorite .380 ammo brands to get you started and hopefully set you down the right path.

What’s your favorite .380 ammo brand? Tell us in the comments below. Don’t have one yet? Check out our article on the Best .380 Pistols: Pocket Rockets for some recommendations.

Ever wondered how big is a moose compared to a human? Adult Moose usually measure up to 9 feet (2.8 meters) in terms of body length. Compared to a human, the average moose has a much bigger body overall, while also having a total body mass that is in the range of ten times that of a person at the same height.

A common sight in the colder regions of North America, moose are generally friendly creatures that pose little of a threat when approached. They’re known for their distinctive calls, deer-like antlers, and their bulbous noses that make them easy to tell apart from deer or elk.

But how big can a moose get, compared to a human?

Moose are the biggest representatives of the deer family, and a single look at one will tell you why. Larger than any horse, deer, or other hoofed animals, the moose towers above most mammals including us humans. If you want to know more fascinating facts about moose and their impressive bodies, feel free to take a look at our quick fact sheet below!

Related Reading: Do Moose Come Out in the Rain?

How Tall is a Moose?

While it is easy to see that moose are incredibly massive animals, and their bodies can easily dwarf those of us human beings, there is the question of how tall moose really are, not just how big overall. Being four-hoofed animals that never walk upright, the total body dimensions of a moose are a bit misleading when it comes to visualizing just how large a moose looks when put next to a human.

Adult moose measure about 6 to 7 feet (1.8 to 2.2 meters) in height when measured at the shoulder. However, when the head and antlers are taken into account and the moose stands tall, this figure can eclipse 10 feet (3 meters).

As you can tell, the measurement of a moose’s height paints a different picture than the sole body length numbers alone – however, it should still be quite clear to see that moose are gigantic animals, and even smaller specimens will have us, humans, walking in their shadows due to their sheer mass and size.

How Big Can a Moose Get?

Over the course of a moose’s life cycle, their bodies change and develop quite radically, just like ours. Therefore, how big a moose can get depends on a few factors.We’ve laid everything out in the quick overview below. It should give you everything you need to know about the dimensions of a moose.

• First note that moose exhibit sexual dimorphism, i.e. females are of different size and appearance than males. A female moose will not grow antlers, and is on average about 60-70% the body mass of a comparable male
• There are a few recognized subspecies of moose, the largest of which is the Alaskan moose. The so-called Taiga moose, which is common across Central Europe, Russia, and parts of Kazakhstan, is noticeably smaller
• As moose age, their bodies grow larger and stronger. Male moose start growing antlers after about a year of age, and they renew them after every mating season. At their peak, the antlers alone can be over 6 feet (1.8 meters) long, somewhat shorter in the case of Eurasian moose
• Moose calves are about the same size as horse calves, but they grow very quickly and reach adult size after a year
• The biggest moose ever confirmed was a male Alaskan moose shot in 1897 – it measured 7.6 feet (230 centimeters) tall at the shoulders and weighed 1,800 pounds (816 kilograms)

Why Are Moose So Big?

While it is obvious that moose are some of the largest herbivores found in North America and Eurasia, the less obvious fact is the answer to the question of why their bodies are as massive as they are.

The truth is that moose need to be so large in order to properly survive in their natural habitat. The cold temperatures and harsh seasons that moose often experience in Alaska and Siberia have effected great evolutionary pressure on these animals – and it shows.

Moose have many tricks up their sleeves in order to cope with their home climate. For example, their many hairs are hollow on the inside, which helps them insulate for added warmth.

The incredible weight that moose pack on is also no coincidence – large volumes of fat storage provides another way to weather the freezing temperatures outside, so moose like to keep themselves well-fed.

And in turn, this excessive body weight needs to be supported by strong limbs and muscles – which is why the body of a moose needs to reach its uniquely humongous dimensions in order for these animals to thrive.

In fact, when moose are introduced to warmer climates (as is unfortunately the case more and more often these days as areas historically populated by moose undergo climate change), their bodies suffer greatly. They lose weight, experience chronic stress, and female moose will also develop fertility issues.

All in all, the short answer for why moose are so big is that they have evolved more so than almost any other four-hoofed herbivore to survive exceptionally well in the cold.

No wonder, then, that there is only one animal that shares the moose’s habitat and can rival it in size – the bison, another mammal whose gigantic body is mostly the result of evolutionary pressures intended to make it easier to survive freezing winters.

Related Reading: Can You Ride a Moose? Has It Ever Been Done?

How Big Are Moose Antlers?

The antlers are easily the most recognizable aspect of the moose’s appearance. However, just like deer, moose “renew” their antlers every season, and with each passing year the antlers grow longer, taller, and more intricate. It should also be noted that female moose (cows) never grow antlers.

The antlers of an adult male moose are typically up to 6 feet (1.8 meters) long end-to-end. The moose with the longest antlers are by far the Alaskan variety, while Eurasian moose tend to display slightly shorter specimens.

The antlers of a moose can add significantly to the animal’s overall size, though most formal measurements of moose are based on the height measured at the shoulders.

Why Are Moose Antlers So Big?

Though they add a lot of distinctiveness to the visual appearance of a moose, it is a question worth asking why moose grow their antlers to such an impressive size to begin with.

The antlers of the moose are used for display purposes, indicating a male’s sexual prowess and overall health and strength. If multiple males compete over a single female, they will actually use their antlers to fight. The victor is then generally taken to have the stronger antlers, and by extension the stronger, healthier body with the superior genes. Therefore, natural selection has led to most moose growing impressively large, intricately-shaped antlers.

The moose’s antlers might not be as significant to the animal’s daily lifestyle as most other parts of their bodies – however, when mating season strikes, their antlers are their number one tool of choice in order to attract the perfect mate. And in cases of rivalry between male moose, they can serve as potent weapons and displays of strength!

Are Moose Dangerous?

Now that you know all the basic facts about the size of the average moose you might encounter in the wild, you might be a bit worried that these large animals with their weapon-like antlers could pose a threat to your or your loved ones. But is it true that moose are dangerous animals?

While moose are certainly massive and strong enough to cause serious damage to people and their property, they are not very aggressive animals. Generally speaking, it is hard to provoke them, and incidents where moose attack humans have been incredibly rare throughout history.

The moose is not an animal that will charge or attack a random bystander for no good reason. As long as you keep your distance and do not make any moves that could be considered threatening, you should be perfectly safe.

If a moose does charge you, it is also a good idea to flee and not try to do anything to calm it or go any closer – moose can run at 35 mph (56 kph), and they generally only let go once they realize that their aggressor has given up.

Continue Reading: How Long Is Moose Meat Good in the Freezer? [ANSWERED]

Crocodiles and great white sharks are magnificent marine creatures that intrigue one and all. Let us draw a comparative analysis between them.

Crocodiles are reptiles who live on land and water, whereas great white sharks prefer residing in deep waters and will not survive on land. Both crocodiles and great white sharks are dangerous, aggressive creatures who prey on smaller animals of the ocean. However, they frequently attack each other too.

There are several questions that people might have regarding crocodiles and great whites, especially when it comes to the critical differences between them. Today, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions.

Image Credits: “Madagascar, crocodiles” by luc legay is marked with CC BY-SA 2.0.

Image Credits: “Great White Shark” by Elias Levy is marked with CC BY 2.0.

How are crocodiles different from great white sharks?

Crocodiles and great white sharks are two different species with several distinguishing characteristics. Let us learn more in this regard.

Crocodiles belong to the family of reptiles, whereas great white sharks are essentially a cartilaginous shark species. In addition, crocodiles can move on both land and water, whereas sharks cannot survive outside water and swim at a depth of 1200 meters or more. Besides, crocodiles are generally considered stronger than great white sharks.

Of course, there are several similarities between the two animals. For one, they are both fierce predators who prey on numerous marine creatures.

Will great white sharks win in a fight against crocodiles?

Image Credits: “Great White Shark” by Elias Levy is marked with CC BY 2.0.

Great white sharks and crocodiles are both predators and fighters. But, who will win in a fight against the other? Let us find out.

Great white sharks will win in a fight against crocodiles in deep waters but lose to them in shallow waters. Crocodiles are powerful creatures who can bite and tear apart their prey, and any smaller shark species cannot hold their own against them. However, great white sharks are powerful enough to prey on crocodiles.

We must mention here that great whites are also better swimmers comparatively and can see better in deep waters, which gives them an added advantage over crocodiles.

Crocodile vs. great white shark bite force

Crocodiles and great white sharks have varying bite forces. Allow us to tell you more in this regard.

The crocodiles have greater bite force, not just in comparison to great whites but also most marine animals. For example, crocodiles have a bite force of 3,700 psi, and their jaws are quite powerful as well, whereas great white sharks have a biting force that extends up to 4,000 psi, depending on the size of the shark.

We must mention here that in the case of great white sharks, the larger their size, the more powerful will be their biting force.

Nile crocodile vs. great white shark

Image credits: “Nile Crocodile basking” by Steve Slater (used to be Wildlife Encounters) is marked with CC BY 2.0.

Nile crocodiles and great white sharks are two popular oceanic species. Let us draw a comparative analysis between them.

Nile crocodiles attack anything and everything that comes their way, whereas great white sharks are more selective. As some of you might already know, great white sharks prefer eating seagulls and other shark species. They attack humans out of confusion but never deliberately, whereas there is recorded evidence of Nile crocodiles actively preying on humans.

Nile crocodiles are also known for attacking other crocodiles, small hippos, and birds.

Sea crocodile vs. great white shark

Image Credits: “Saltwater Crocodile” by thinboyfatter is marked with CC BY 2.0.

Image credits: “Great White Shark” by Elias Levy is marked with CC BY 2.0.

Sea crocodiles and great white sharks are intriguing creatures. Allow us to chalk out a comparative analysis between them.

Great white sharks are slightly bigger than sea crocodiles and can overpower them in combat, although not easily. Great white sharks are better swimmers and can maneuver through the ocean, especially deep waters, with ease, whereas sea crocodiles may not have the same swiftness.

Moreover, we must mention here that crocodiles cannot see as well as great whites in the water, which gives the sharks an added advantage.

Tiger shark vs. crocodile

Image Credits: “Tiger Shark at Sea World, Gold Coast” by kevgibbo is marked with CC BY 2.0.

Tiger sharks and crocodiles are dangerous, ferocious creatures. Let us together explore their differences.

Tiger sharks definitely have the upper hand over crocodiles. This is because they can move around better in water, have greater agility, and have sharp, powerful teeth with a strong biting force. Therefore, they can easily cut through turtle shells and attack crocodiles as well. There have been instances of tiger sharks preying on and eating crocodiles.

That being said, crocodiles are ferocious hunters too and often prey on smaller shark species, including young tiger sharks.

Shark vs. crocodile bite force

Sharks and crocodiles have different bite forces in general. Allow us to tell you more in this regard.

Crocodiles are the most powerful biters among all terrestrial species. They have a bite force that extends up to 3,700 PSI and has around 66 teeth that are four inches long each. On the other hand, sharks have teeth that extend up to two inches and have a bite force of 4,000 PSI.

However, shark teeth are serrated and therefore make it easier for them to cut into and tear apart the flesh.

Saltwater crocodile vs. great white shark size

Saltwater crocodiles and great white sharks vary in terms of height and weight. Let us tell you more about their size.

Great white sharks happen to be bigger than saltwater crocodiles and weigh around 6,500 to 7500 lbs, whereas most saltwater crocodiles grow up to 800-1600 lbs only. Besides, great white sharks and crocodiles have similar heights, with sharks growing up to a maximum length of 21 feet, whereas saltwater crocodiles grow up to 22 feet.

Crocodiles, in general, have a tougher hide which makes them more resilient to attacks, and they can hold their own against great whites.

Conclusion

Great white sharks and crocodiles are among the two most intriguing oceanic creatures. They are both highly dangerous and can get quite aggressive towards humans. While crocodiles attack quite indiscriminately, great white sharks prefer preying on sea lions, seals, and smaller shark species. Both these animals are threatened by overfishing and commercial exploitation, due to which it becomes essential for government bodies to take adequate measures to ensure their conservation.

After spending enough time in the field, aiming at and leading a duck may become second nature. You pull up, know where to shoot, and make a clean shot. This comes with many trial and errors and empty shotgun hulls without much to show for them. In this article, I’ll talk about the science behind how far to lead a duck, and how much margin for error there is.

A shooter needs to lead a duck by .24-5.16 feet to make a clean shot. The two distinct variables that determine how far each duck should be led by are: How far away the duck is, and how fast the duck is flying.

How to aim at a duck

Flight speed and lead distance

How far to lead a duck at 20 yards

How far to lead a duck at 30 yards

How far to lead a duck at 40 yards

Is is hard to shoot a duck?

*Note: as you’ll see later in the article, choke tube selection does not determine the distance a duck should be led by, but instead impacts the margin of error that a hunter can miss by.

How to aim at and lead a duck

To correctly aim at a duck, a hunter must shoot far enough in front of it to allow for the time delay between when the pellets leave the barrel of the gun, and when they arrive at the duck. The distance of how far to lead a duck by is determined by how far away from the hunter the duck is, and how fast the duck is flying.

I was interested in the math and science behind how far to lead a duck (I know, you can say it, I can get a little nerdy sometimes), so I started digging into the numbers. I learned a lot in the process and thought it was interesting enough to publish my findings. Scroll to the bottom of this article to see the calculations and equations I used to create these tables and charts.

Charts showing how far to lead a duck by

The tables below show the midpoint for leading a duck depending upon its flight speed. This represents how far you would need to aim ahead of the duck so it ends up in the exact middle of your pellet pattern. You don’t have to shoot spot on this midpoint to make a clean kill shot, meaning there is some margin of error which is discussed later in this article.

A duck that’s getting ready to land (flying 5 mph)

A duck that’s making an approach (flying 15 mph)

A duck flying by (flying 25 mph)

A duck making a fast pass (flying 40 mph)

Is it hard to shoot a duck?

Shotguns that shoot several pellets at the same time are used to hunt ducks, so there’s a margin of error both ahead of, and behind the midpoint, that would still allow for a clean kill shot. This margin of error is primarily determined by the choke tube used.

In some situations, like when the duck is getting ready to land, it can be easy to shoot a duck. On the other hand, if the bird is further away (30 yards or more), and flying fast (faster than 25 mph), it can be very challenging.

Chart showing inches you could shoot either ahead of or behind a duck and still make a clean kill shot using various choke tubes:

Calculations used in the experiment

There are numerous small variables in every hunting situation. They can’t all be accounted for, so I used the following assumptions for a control baseline in my calculations:

Check out our article about best shot sizes for ducks

• #2 Steele shot traveling 1365 fps
• 12 gauge 30 inch barrel
• Shotgun is patterned correctly
• Light/no wind
• No rain
• Average size duck

Equations used in article

Equation used for midpoint: (B/C) * A = X

A= speed (fps) the duck is traveling at: fps converted from mph

B= distance (ft) from duck (ft): Yards converted to ft

C= pellet speed (fps)

D= time (seconds) for pellets to reach target: (B/C)

X = Distance to lead duck by

Margin for error (inches) equation =

(Size of pellet spread that contains 65-70% of pellets at specified distance in ft) / (2)

Considerations that might impact my results:

• Using a smaller shot size would mean it would take more than 65% to 70% of the shell’s pellets to bring a duck down
• The longer the gun barrel, the tighter the pellet pattern. This can reduce the margin of error while increasing the effective distance
• Shotgun shells with slower/faster pellet speeds would increase/decrease how far a duck would need to be let by
• Larger ducks usually take more/larger pellets to bring down
• Using a 20 gauge would decrease the effective rage

Find the Ducks!

You may think they’re just birdbrains, but wild turkeys actually see three to four times better than human beings. What’s more, they can see color as well. Their eyes not only detect a human’s slightest movement, but they see it in a vivid, three-dimensional perspective just like we do.

So, while camouflage is always crucial in hunting, for spring turkey hunting, it’s extra important to don the right type.

One camo deemed perfect for a certain environment or hunting style could be totally useless in another. The best camo pattern is going to depend on your surroundings.

Determining the Best Turkey Hunting Camo

Good turkey camouflage needs to be right for the environmental and weather condition. First, you need to know whether there’s budding green colors among the spring changes where you’re headed. As green emerges, is your camo choice reflecting that?

Then, consider what kind of layers you’ll need—base layers, warm jackets, or spring light longsleeves?

Other considerations for turkey season include a turkey vest, camo facemask decoys, and a good call. But for continued success in the field, the best turkey camouflage pattern for your needs will ensure you’re seeing success each and every turkey hunting season.

And when you’re wearing the right camo, it can all come together for an unforgettable hunting season. There are so many good camo companies to choose from, but here we’re focusing on two of the leading brands, Mossy Oak and Realtree, which have stood the test of time—not to mention a wild turkey’s eyesight.

Mossy Oak Bottomland

Perhaps Mossy Oak’s best representation comes from the turkey hunting community in the southeastern U.S., where Bottomland is still worn and revered consistently, year after year. This is where it all started for the Mossy Oak brand, with its natural bark elements and color tones that blend in seamlessly.

However, Bottomland has quickly become a staple across the camouflage market, worn as frequently with casual wear as it is in the woods. Outdoorsmen of all kinds seem to really appreciate the aesthetic this pattern has to offer, and hunters find it to be a strong cross-purpose option for when they need one pattern to get the job done in a variety of environments.

Mossy Oak Greenleaf

Greenleaf is a classic pattern that is ready made for spring turkey hunting with just the right amount of green and brown to cover you up. Honestly, Mossy Oak’s Break-Up, Break-Up Country, and Infinity patterns conceal incredibly well, but are just a bit lacking in the green department for spring gobbler hunting.

This pattern, however, does a fine job of incorporating each of those concepts and giving it just enough spring pop for when those gobblers begin strutting.

Realtree Hardwoods Green HD Camo

This super-realistic camouflage pattern is effective and versatile wherever green is visible, and that certainly means the spring turkey season in the woods. Hunters seem to be hit or miss on the high-definition camo concepts, but there’s a reason this particular pattern has made such an impact on the industry.

Additionally, if there would ever be a time you’d want your camo pattern to be as realistic as possible, it would be when you’re chasing after those keen-eyed gobblers.

Realtree Xtra Green Camo

For the serious bowhunter who doesn’t put away the archery gear just because it’s turkey hunting time, this excellent pattern will keep you out of the turkey’s eyesight long enough to raise up, pull back, and lose an arrow.

As you can see from the photo above, this particular pattern does great when a hunter is up against a tree, which is great news for all of those bowhunters who enjoy hunting from the ground.

Realtree Original Camo

For many hunters, this is where it all began in the spring. We knew our spot, scouted our bird, and were wearing this vaunted pattern when we took a bird.

Other good patterns include Realtree APG, Advantage Timber, and Advantage Classic since they have a lot of the green and brown mixes that bowhunters know and love.

READ MORE: 5 BEST TURKEY HUNTING STATES OVER THE NEXT 5 YEARS

ModelDraw WeightStrokeVelocitySuggested Arrow LengthCrossbow Length / Weight Parker StingRay Check price on Amazon.com 100-125 lbs.11″135-150 FPS Crossbow Academy: ballistics, sighting, tuning20″34.25″ / 7.5 lbs.

What Comes in the Box?

Welcome to our review of the Parker StingRay bowfishing crossbow. Each package delivered by Parker includes the following items:

• The Parker Stingray crossbow
• Open sight
• Assembly hardware and tools
• AMS Retriever Pro Bowfishing Reel
• 200 feet of Hi-Vis Braided Dacron Line
• 2 AMS Safety Slide kits
• 1 Bowfishing Arrow
• Muzzy Gator Getter 1600-gr broadhead
• Owner’s manual
• Warranty card

Crossbow Assembly

Putting the StingRay together is amazingly simple for such a complex hunting package. The riser, or what Parker calls the front-end assembly, attaches to the stock once you’ve installed the cable slide. If your Stingray comes with a scope, it will be premounted for you, so there is no work to be done to get the scope onto the crossbow. Once you’ve attached the riser to the stock, you attach the AMS Retriever Pro Bowfishing Reel, which includes an integrated arrow quiver for storing your bowfishing arrow.

After putting your bow together, you should set the draw weight to whatever you want it to be, between 100# and 125#. The beauty of this design is that you don’t need any special tools or a bow press to set the draw weight. Once the assembly and tuning is complete, you’re ready to move on to sighting in your crossbow.

Accuracy And Power

Whether you have the open sight or the 1X scope with your x-bow, you’ll want to sight in your bow before you hit the water. I was able to have my open sights fine-tuned within a couple of shots, and then I tested the accuracy of the Stingray. The Stingray delivers arrows between 135fps and 150fps, depending on the draw weight you have set. Mine is set to the maximum 125 pounds, so the 1600-gr bowfishing arrow was hitting the target at 150 fps with almost 80 ft. lbs. of kinetic energy.

From 25 yards, I was able to maintain a 1/2″ grouping with this crossbow, and held the same grouping from 35 yards. From 50 yards, I could hold a pattern just 1-1/2” in diameter, which is more than accurate enough for serious bowfishing. With the Stingray sighted in and tested, I was ready to hit the water.

Will Hunters Enjoy the Parker Stingray?

This x-bow is designed for bowfishing, so you won’t take this up against a deer. With that said, it has the stopping power for a deer, but the speed of the arrows is probably too slow to account for the tendency of deer to string jump. I didn’t even try this bow land hunting, using it instead for what it was designed for—bowfishing.

For fishing purposes, this is an excellent crossbow. You can easily penetrate and nab the largest fish, whether you’re in fresh water or salt water. The reel works flawlessly, and the included 200 feet of high visibility line makes it easy to see where your arrow has gone. An illuminated nock will also help tremendously.

What was really exciting about this crossbow was the inclusion of the Muzzy Gator Getter arrow point. I had the good fortune of getting in on an alligator hunt, and chose the Stingray as my tool of choice for hunting gator. During my gator hunt, I was able to fill my limit of gator easily, with the Stingray performing exactly as I expected it to on this once-in-a-lifetime hunting opportunity.

Cocking The Stingray

The Stingray has an adjustable draw weight of 100 lbs. to 125 lbs., and the adjustment can be made without any special tools or a bow press. For some, this light draw weight might mean hand-cocking the crossbow, but I definitely would not recommend this. While it’s easy enough to draw by hand, using a rope cocking device makes your draw much more even and consistent, helping your accuracy considerably. Unfortunately, Parker does not include a rope cocking device with the Stingray, so I would recommend picking one up at your local archery shop when you get your Stingray.

The Crossbow Scope

Parker delivers this crossbow with either an open sight or a 1X scope. I chose the open sight, but I’ve also used the 1X scope in the past. This scope is very good quality, with coated optics for fog-resistance, and excellent light gathering capabilities for use in dark swampy areas. It sights in easily and quickly, and holds true almost indefinitely.

Bolts

Your purchase of the Parker Stingray will net you one bowfishing arrow, which many will say is all that you need. That’s probably true, because the hassle of switching your retrieval line from one arrow to another is more trouble than just pulling your arrow back in and reusing it, but you may want to invest in additional arrows in case yours becomes damaged. Parker recommends 1600-grain arrows for use with the Stingray, and attempting to use a lighter arrow than that could result in some serious problems and injuries for you and your crossbow.

Safety and Design

The Stingray is designed with boat fishing in mind, so it is small and compact. It is also lightweight, and almost perfectly balanced. It features a G2 Bull-Pup trigger with an auto-engaging ambidextrous safety and auto-engaging anti-dry fire mechanism, both of which operate reliably for each and every shot. The vented forearm’s safety finger flange is perfectly sized and positioned to keep you safe when firing your x-bow.

The AMS Retriever Pro bowfishing reel that comes with the Stingray is set up with a right-side crank, so if you are left-handed you may struggle with the retriever reel. It works perfectly, though, and serves wonderfully for reeling in that big catch when you nail it.

Warranty

All Parker crossbows are covered by a 5-year limited warranty, and Parker’s customer service representatives are easy to work with, friendly, and knowledgeable. Make sure to register your warranty within 15 days of your purchase, though, or your warranty may not be valid.

What Crossbow Case Fits the Parker StingRay?

If you use a smaller scope, the Carbon Express Deluxe Case is a nice soft carrycase for $66. If your StingRay is equipped with a bigger scope, opt for the Allen Company case. It is a $30, soft carrycase which offers more space.

Crossbow Review – Summary

Thanks for reading my review of the Parker Stingray. This is an exciting crossbow with excellent potential for hunting alligators and use in bowfishing. If you want to get involved in bowfishing, but would rather use a crossbow than a bow, the Stingray is the crossbow for you. Take a look at today’s amazon.com price on this crossbow and check out our top 10 crossbows rankings for more.