For all intents and purposes, the whole month of September is a holiday in the state of Texas. Of course, Labor Day is the first Monday in September – three day weekend, BBQs, etc… But what September signifies to Texans is the start of dove season. It is absolute hysteria. In Texas some hunt deer, some hunt hogs, others hunt ducks or exotics, but everybody hunts dove. For reasons we’ll discuss shortly, I wanted to review the Mossberg 930, but hold that thought.

For the 2019 season, I was particularly focused on the second weekend of September. The plan: leave Dallas/Fort Worth at 4 am on Thursday with my buddy Jon, drive to Albuquerque NM, get a hotel, wake up early Friday morning, shoot all ten stages of the USPSA 2019 High Desert Classic, after the match drive to the family ranch in the panhandle of Texas where we would meet JD and Mo, predator hunt all night, get two hours of sleep, wake up, dove hunt, and repeat until we leave Sunday afternoon. We were really maxing out the schedule, but that’s just what you do on a guys weekend.

Why the Mossberg 930?

I was most looking forward to dove hunting. The other activities are awesome, but I get to do those all year. Between my personal armory, SHWAT™, and connections through the Texas Gun Experience, I can pretty much shoot any shotgun I fancy. Beretta, Benelli, Browning, Remington, and others are all on the menu. This year I decided to choose something a little bit different and went with the Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowl. I have always respected Mossberg’s 590 Series so it made sense to check out their 930.

930 Looks Matter

First things first. The 930 Waterfowl edition looks slick. Covered in a Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo pattern, it reminds me that I grew up lusting for such things. I hunted with old beat-up single shots while friends camo covered auto-loaders seemed to taunt me. Yes, “it’s the Indian, not the arrow” remains true, but it helps to have nice arrows and if they look good you get bonus points. High Schoolers like to flex with the coolest new phone or gadget, and, like it or not, dove hunters like to flex with their shotty’s. When your hunting buddy says, “Sweet shotty, bro!” life is all good. Under the camo pattern, the Mossberg sports clean, traditional shotgun lines.

930 Looks Don’t Matter

Looks don’t matter if the gun doesn’t work. My ammo choice for the Mossberg 930 Waterfowl edition was shotgun shell soup, or shell soup for short. What is shell soup? Well, I have this ammo container containing red, blue, green, yellow, and black shells. Some of these are 6 shot, some 7, some 8, and others remain unknown. That’s why I call it shell soup. Got it? Well, Mikey liked it. I put around 100 rounds of shell soup through the Mossberg and it ate everything. Not a single hiccup. I know what you’re thinking… 100 rounds can’t come close to telling us much about the Mossberg 930’s abilities. Granted, but based on past experiences I expected at least a stovepipe or two.

The Mossberg Shotgun Safety

The Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowl features something very new to me, but not new to Mossberg: A top-mounted safety selector. The majority of shotgun designs I know I know place the safety somewhere on the trigger guard. I didn’t give this much thought as the first bird came in. Flying the tree line, right-to-left, about 70 yards out it then turns, heading straight for me.

Oh yeah baby, dove season is about to get started!

I wait until the timing is right, pull up the 930, look down the raised vent rib, acquire the fiber optic red bead, and line up the bird. I have it dead-to-rights and pull the trigger. Nothing happens.

Crap! The safety dummy!

So, I take my finger off the trigger and start fumbling for the safety. I can’t find it, everything feels flush, so it must be off, right?

I quickly realign my shot and try pulling the trigger again. Nothing! I take the gun off of my shoulder, rotate it 90 degrees, and look down at the top-mounted safety as the dove flies right over my head… Yep… What’s worse than that is a couple of minutes later I repeat the entire failure process again. JD, in particular, finds great pleasure in observing my angst. I, however, do not.

After those first few mishaps, everything is smooth as a perfectly polished barrel. Maybe I should have thought about the safety position a little more to begin with, but no doubt, I’m thinking about it now. Running the gun properly throughout the next two days I think over the pros and cons of Mossberg’s placement of the safety on the 930 and other shotguns. I conclude that the top mounted safety beats the trigger guard safety design. Why? It’s safer, especially when you are flipping the safety back on.

Most safeties are less than half an inch away from the trigger when mounted on the trigger guard. When you think about that in conjunction with factors such as weather, gloves, adrenaline, and inexperience, you can start to see a host of potential problems. For this reason alone, I have pretty much made up my mind that when it comes time for my kids’ first shotguns I will go with Mossbergs.

Mossberg 930 Build Quality

Mossberg didn’t spend much money or do anything crazy with the stock or forend, but it’s a shotgun designed to live in a duck blind. The 930 is a tool that is going to get wet and beat up. Babying the thing is not something I want to worry about. Mossberg did, however, spend some money where it counts by boron nitriding the bolt and using a stainless steel recoil spring. This thing stands up to the abuse water fowlers put it though, so it should be able to survive chasing doves in a sunflower field without a problem.

Natural Pointing

Okay, we know the Mossberg 930 looks good, chugs shells, and utilizes a top-mounted safety, but it is time to get down to business. Wing hunters pay attention. The gun points nicely. When I shoulder 930 the bead is right where it needs to be. In my case, I’m not too high or too low on the rib (though it comes with a shim kit if this isn’t the case for you). The 28-inch barrel is well balanced. With a gas operated loading system, the 930 weighs 7.75 lbs, less than a gallon of water. The soft honeycomb recoil pad soaks up recoil which allows for fast follow up shots. If you don’t believe me, just look up some videos of Jerry Miculek shooting a Mossberg 930. Here’s one for you:

Final Thoughts on the Mossberg 930

What do we have when it’s all said and done? In my opinion, a good looking, no frills, down to business autoloader that is reliable and will stand up to abuse. Not really much to see here, because that is what a waterfowl shotgun is supposed to do, right? Yes, but the Mossberg 930 Pro-Series Waterfowl comes to the market with an MSRP of $794. That’s about half the price of the majority of the competition. Well done, Mossberg.

The HAM Team has been testing a 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II for some time. Overall, this is quite similar to the original FX Wildcat in .22 caliber we tested two years ago. After all, it is a “Mark II” version of the same basic gun…

Background

The .22 cal Wildcat earned a HAM Gold Award with a 93% score, so it’s clear that the Wildcat is a great air rifle. This time we’re looking at the Mark II version.

This has longer (700 mm, that’s 28 Inches) barrel, combined with a higher capacity HPA reservoir. These are appropriate for the increased power output of the larger caliber.

Wildcat Mark II models also incorporate the FX SmoothTwist X interchangeable barrel liner system. This allows users the ability to exchange barrel liners for pellet or slug use, for example.

There’s a range of barrel liners in varying twist rates and bore specifications for compatibility with various airgun projectile weights and shapes.

We tested the regular, pellet liner in this 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II.

.30 Caliber Specifics

.30 caliber is rapidly increasing in popularity. However there is still not a huge range of pellets available for it. The HAM Team had some tins of 44.75 Grain JSB Exacts. We also had some .30 caliber Predator Polymags.

Given that the 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II is clearly a hunting gun, we had expected to use the Polymags for our main testing. Unfortunately – and surprisingly – the Polymags proved too long to fit into the Wildcat’s magazine.

So we undertook all the testing with JSBs…

Overall Impressions

As we know from the previous Wildcat test, this air rifle is a beautiful, fine-handling “traditional” bullpup air rifle. It’s traditional because it has a full, regular stock – either laminate, walnut or synthetic, to your choice.

If anything the 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II is slightly more comfortable to shoot than the original – in the HAM Team’s opinion. We preferred the somewhat greater muzzle-heaviness of the large caliber version.

The sidelever action remains a pleasure to use and the trigger pulls back with almost no pressure at all. The average pull weight was 1 Lb 2 Oz. That’s very close to that of the .22 caliber gun we tested before and an indication of very consistent manufacturing and assembly at the factory.

In spite of the very light trigger pull weight, the second stage is very easily detected. It’s no problem at all to hold the trigger just at breaking point. Sear release is crisp and predictable.

As usual, the HAM team tested the Wildcat’s trigger as received “out of the box”. We saw no need to make any adjustments.

The gun we received was supplied with a separate Donny FL silencer, although we didn’t find the need to install it for our testing as the factory moderator muted the report sufficiently for us.

The overall shooting weight of the test gun was 9 Lb 2 Oz – including the mounted Holland’s scope. Length was 35 1/4 Inches. Both these figures would, of course, be slightly higher with a silencer added.

HAM Tester Doug Wall is a left-hander. However he found the Wildcat pleasant to shoot as the magazine protrudes very little from the receiver and because the cocking lever is mounted amidships.

The magazine is very easy to load. However there’s no “blank shot” prevention. The Wildcat does not warn you if there’s no pellets remaining in the magazine. So you do have to keep count of the number of shots fired.

Scopes

We tried the 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II with two scopes. First was the MTC Cobra F1 4-16 x 50. This scope balanced well with the Wildcat and the First Focal Plane configuration clearly offered benefits for a dedicated hunting air rifle.

Then we swapped the MTC scope with a Holland’s Game-Getter 2.5 – 15 x 50 model. This dedicated hunting scope was also mounted using Leapers UTG PRO rings.

Although designed primarily as a hunting scope for firearm use, the Game-Getter displayed some interesting benefits, including the oversize elevation and windage turrets. We’ll be talking more about this scope in a future post in HAM.

Using the UTG PRO high rings, we had no problems achieving a good sight picture with either scope.

As with the first version, the 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II has a fixed buttpad. It worked just fine like that for both shooters. But we felt that an adjustable buttpad would not be too much to ask on a $1,700 (plus scope) air rifle – just in case.

Speed And Accuracy

The 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II tested by HAM was a powerful and accurate air rifle.

Shooting the 44.75 Grain JSBs, we recorded a 10-shot average Muzzle Velocity of 825.4 FPS. This translated to a solid 67.41 Ft/Lbs of Muzzle Energy.

As the graph below shows, the 30 caliber Wildcat achieved 28 consistent shots from a fill of HPA before “falling off” of the regulator. While there was still plenty of power available after shot 28, it would definitely make sense to re-fill with HPA to ensure vertical accuracy.

Of course, 28 consistent shots is plenty for almost any airgun hunter. Combined with the 8-shot magazine, that represents a very practical, usable combination of power and shot count.

As for accuracy, this “one hole” group of 5 shots at 25 Yards was deemed very acceptable by the HAM Testers. This combination of Wildcat, Game-Getter scope and JSB pellets certainly shoots!

At 50 Yards, the 5-shot group had opened out a little, possibly due to some gusts in the crosswind. However, this was still very satisfactory hunting accuracy.

We left the scope windage and elevation unchanged for the 50 Yard shots. The drop from 25 Yards (the sight-in range) was 1 5/8 Inches.

Conclusions

The 30 Caliber FX Wildcat Mark II tested by HAM proved to be powerful, consistent and accurate. It’s clearly a very capable bullpup air rifle that would be a pleasure to own.

We’ll finish this review by repeating the conclusions from the review of the original Wildcat. “The FX Wildcat air rifle is beautifully-designed and manufactured bullpup that’s a joy to shoot. It has the power and accuracy to be an outstanding hunting air rifle.”

BUY FROM AIRGUN DEPOT FX Wildcat MkII Laminate

10 Best Places To Hunt in Texas

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

Texas is a state in the South Central region of the United States. It’s the second-largest state based on both area and population and is often called “The Lone Star State”.

When it comes to hunting, it’s not hard to find accounts of award-winning large-antlered whitetail deer and record-setting wild pigs in the Lone Star State. The phrase “everything’s bigger in Texas” seems to hold true even to their game animals.

Other huntable game species include alligators, javelinas, mule deer, pronghorn, squirrels, turkeys, waterfowl, and upland birds, especially quail. You can also find hunting opportunities for more exotic game species being offered in some of the state’s fine hunting ranches.

Big Hunts in the Lone Star State

With so many fine hunting opportunities abound, finding quality hunting opportunities in Texas can be difficult. Read through this article to find our suggestions for the best places to hunt in Texas, what game you can expect, and who you can contact for guides hunts and hunting opportunities.

1. San Angelo: Whitetail Deer

The City of San Angelo is the county seat for Tom Green County, Texas. The city, and its territory, cover an area of about 59 square miles and is located in the Concho Valley with an elevation of 1,844 feet.

When it comes to the city’s climate, San Angelo has hot and cold seasons. Its hot season lasts from May to September and can see average temperatures of up to 95 °F in July. Its cold season lasts from November to February when cooler temperatures go down to an average of 36 °F in January.

Whitetail deer is the main big game animal around San Angelo. To score some choice animals, you can contact Bar None Hunts. This company offers accommodations and guided hunts on over 50,000 acres of West Texas whitetail habitat.

2. Menard: Deer, Hog, Turkey, and More

Menard County is located on the Edwards Plateau in Texas. Covering a total area of 902 square miles, the county’s highest point sits at 2,432 feet of elevation.

The county gets just 26 inches of rain (compared to the US average of 36 inches) and only 1 inch of snow (compared to the US average of 28 inches) per year. Temperatures can go up to 93 °F in July and dip down to 31 °F in January.

Menard County has a variety of huntable game species including hog, turkey, and deer. Real Outfitters offers hunting opportunities for the above-mentioned animals plus a chance to hunt more exotic game like Blackbuck Antelope.

3. Coleman: Dove, Quail, Deer, and More

Coleman is another county located in the state of Texas. It covers a total area of 1,281 square miles, with its highest point standing at 1,702 feet of elevation. The county was named after Robert M. Coleman, a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and soldier at the Battle of San Jacinto.

Summer is hot and humid in Coleman county while winters are windy, short, and cold. Temperatures usually fall between 35 °F to 97 °F and are rarely below 23 °F or above 103 °F.

Coleman is known for its big game like whitetail deer and hog but you can also find smaller game like dove, quail, duck, and spring turkey. First Shot Hunts offers lodging and opportunities to hunt the above-mentioned animals. The company operates on over 600,000 acres of prime hunting land throughout Central Texas.

4. Lubbock: Goose, Crane, Deer, Hog, and More

Lubbock is a city in the Estacado region of northwestern Texas. The city is ecologically part of the southern end of the High Plains subregion and sits at an elevation of about 3,200 feet.

The city and the areas surrounding it have a cool semi-arid climate. The area receives around 18 inches of rain and around 7 inches of snow per year.

Crooked Wing Outfitters offers some of the finest hunting in all of West Texas. This company offers lodging as well as hunting opportunities for several game species including hog, deer, turkey, waterfowl, pheasant, quail, dove, duck, crane, and goose.

5. Ingram: Deer, Sheep, Antelope, and A Whole Lot More

The city of Ingram lies in Kerr County, Texas. Nestled in the geographic region known as Texas Hill Country, the city sits at an elevation of about 1,700 feet.

Ingram receives about 31 inches of rain and just 1 inch of snow per year. The hottest days are in July with temperatures going up to 92 °F while winter temperatures can dip down to 33 °F in January.

The city of Ingram is where you can find Texas Hunt Lodge. This award-winning company offers accommodations and hunts for over 80 game species year-round. Feel free to check out their site for more information.

6. Quanah: Deer, Turkey, Quail, and Hog

The city of Quanah is the county seat of Hardeman County, Texas. It covers an area of just 3.48 square miles and sits at an elevation of about 1,500 feet.

Quanah summers are mostly clear, hot, and humid while its winters are partly cloudy, windy, dry, and cold. Temperatures usually fall between 31 °F to 98 °F and are rarely below 20 °F or above 105 °F.

For opportunities to hunt deer, hog, turkey, and quail in Quanah, you can contact Red River Valley Outfitters. This company specializes in hunting the above-mentioned animals on 10,000 acres of land. They also added hunting opportunities for duck, goose, and Sandhill crane.

7. Eldorado: Deer, Elk, and Much More

The city of Eldorado is the county seat of Schleicher County, Texas. The city covers an area of about 1.4 square miles and sits at an elevation of about 2,400 feet.

Eldorado gets about 24 inches of rain and just 1 inch of snow per year. Temperatures can go up to 93 °F in July and drop down to 30 °F in January.

If you’re looking to hunt the native Texas game and more, you can contact Magnum Guide Service LLC. This company offers full-time guided hunts for Texas whitetail deer, mule deer, and elk as well as more exotic game like kudu, sable, and wildebeest.

8. Brady: Whitetail, Blackbuck Antelope, Oryx, & Much More

Brady is a city located in McCulloch County near the very heart of Texas. This small yet self-sufficient city sits at the outermost edge of Texas Hill Country at an elevation of about 1,600 feet.

The area experiences hot humid summers and mild to cool winters. Temperatures in July can go up to 94 °F and dip down to around 32 °F in January.

For opportunities to hunt whitetail deer and more exotic game, feel free to contact Cross Oaks Ranch. This company is located just outside Brady and offers lodging as well as guided hunts for whitetail deer, Blackbuck Antelope, Oryx, and more.

9. Austin: Deer, Hogs, Turkey, and More

Austin is the capital city of the state of Texas. It’s situated where the Colorado River crosses the Balcones Escarpment, separating the Texas Hill Country from the Blackland prairies.

The city has a humid subtropical climate which gives it long hot summers and short mild winters. Temperatures usually fall between 43 °F to 97 °F and are rarely below 30 °F or above 102 °F.

There are many fine hunting outfitters in Austin, Texas and Sisco D Ranch is one of them. This company offers lodging and hunting opportunities for whitetail deer, hogs, turkey as well as more exotic game like aoudad, Blackbuck, and fallow deer.

10. Mountain Home: Deer, Hogs, Aoudad, & Much More

Mountain Home is an unincorporated community in Kerr County, Texas and one of my favorite Texas hunting locations. Being located in Texas Hill Country, Mountain Home sits at an elevation of about 1,900 feet.

Mountain Home gets just 29 inches of rain a year. Temperatures can go up to 91 °F in July and drop down to 32 °F in January.

Being on the Edwards Plateau, Mountain Home is a prime habitat for whitetail deer, hogs, and turkey.

West Kerr Ranch offers lodging and guided hunts for the above-mentioned animals as well as year-round hunts for more exotic game like:

• Axis
• Fallow
• Aoudad
• Elk
• Blackbuck Antelope
• Sika
• Aoudad
• Scimitar-Horned Oryx
• Mouflon rams

More Adventure Related Reading:

10 Best Places for Hunting in Montana

10 Best Places For Hunting In North America

10 Tips for How to Protect Yourself from Mosquitoes & Ticks While Hiking

An Adventurers Top 20 Essential Travel Items

Backpacking Meal Planning 101

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To your next adventure!

-David

Long before Jack Carr was noticed for raising two pet moose, he was already famous.

An Alaska mail carrier at the turn of the 20th century, Carr spent his days crisscrossing the territory by dog sled, delivering mail between the Last Frontier and the contiguous United States.

In this role, Carr brought news of Alaska to a national audience. He was the first to confirm the Klondike Gold Rush in 1897, when he brought the news of gold to Seattle, the New York Times reported more than a century ago.

Only later, after moving to Washington state, did Carr procure and train two moose. He named them in honor of President William Taft and Taft’s daughter, Helen. The unusual pets brought Carr’s name to the headlines once again.

Despite the novelty and interest surrounding his pet moose, he wasn’t the only one domesticating moose during that era. From Fairbanks to Skagway, stories of pet ungulates were making the news.

‘Moose will go on vaudeville stage’

Carr’s name is scattered among various publications of the time, where he described the advances and ills of the era, from the destitute miners spending their scant money at saloons to the bustling population of Dawson City.

He took the first mail from Circle City by dog team in 1896, mushing down to Skagway, the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner wrote in 1960. The next year he purportedly traveled from St. Michael, at the mouth of the Yukon River, to Seattle. His journey took only 87 days, the article says, not including the days he rested.

By 1898, Carr was described as “one of the most famous mail carriers and travelers” among Yukon pioneers by the Klondike Nugget, based in Dawson City.

A few years later, Carr was again on the move.

A 1906 article from the Fairbanks Daily Times says that Carr, “the greatest of all mushers,” had “quit the business.” He and his wife were heading to Seattle, ending his mail contract between the Yukon-Koyukuk region.

The couple had already sold a trading post they owned in Fort Yukon. Carr had also secured a gold mining claim that “relieve(d) him from any further necessity of mushing or doing anything else save watching the other fellows work,” the article says.

(The later News-Miner article says, though, that he was still mushing in Alaska in 1908, so there is some discrepancy as to the end of his mail-carrying career. At some point, though, he ended up back in Interior Alaska, with two baby moose by his side.)

In November 1909, his image appeared in the Seattle Daily Times next to two moose calves. The article was dug up by Elizabeth Cook of the Tanana-Yukon Historical Society.

“Moose Will go on Vaudeville Stage,” the article’s headline proclaims. “Jack Carr, Pioneer of Alaska, Educating Animals He Caught in Far North for Theatrical Career.”

According to the article, Carr captured the twin calves near Circle City in the Interior when they were 6 days old. He fed them condensed milk and oatmeal until they were more fully grown.

He named the two moose Bill and Helen, after President William Taft and his daughter.

Bill and Helen were brought to Seattle via steamship and train, where they lived in an enclosure on Carr’s property, the article says.

Undated images of the two moose fully grown show that he succeeded in training them to pull him in a sulky, a light, two-wheeled carriage. Another image shows a moose standing on two legs and Carr standing on a pedestal, smiling at his domesticated creature.

Eventually, Carr got bored of living in Seattle, the News-Miner reported. He moved to the now-abandoned town of Katalla, Alaska, where he lived for the rest of his life. It’s unclear when or if the moose went with him.

Moose-mounted cavalry?

Today, of course, all of this would be illegal. State law bans the keeping of game animals as pets. Moose can be kept in captivity only under certain circumstances, by zoos and other permitted facilities.

But long before the Gold Rush, other Arctic regions were experimenting with domesticating moose.

In the 1700s, Swedish King Carl XI used moose as riding animals for couriers. He also planned to make moose-mounted cavalry regiments, an idea that was presented later to the Academy of Science in Stockholm as an alternative to importing horses. The idea never took hold, though; the animals’ untrainable nature and susceptibility to disease made them less preferable to horses.

In the 1930s, Soviet dictator Joseph Stalin also hoped moose would replace horses in cavalry regimes but the idea was eventually abandoned. Moose domestication projects in Russia continue today, mostly selling moose milk and serving as tourist attractions.

Meanwhile, in Alaska’s territorial days, there were no laws against keeping moose, and another famous Alaskan, J. Bernard Moore of Skagway, also had his own family pet.

Carnation the moose

The Moore family settled in Skagway Bay in 1887. Ten years later – after J. Bernard Moore successfully predicted that a gold rush would flood the valley with stampeders – their homestead was overrun with men heading north.

The city of Skagway was born, and for a short time, one of the most famous residents was a young bull moose.

The tale of J. Bernard “Ben” Moore’s moose is related in detail in “Skagway: City of the New Century” by Jeff Brady.

Moore inherited the moose in Seattle in 1899 from a miner who had brought the creature down from Canada. Its name: Carnation.

Carnation arrived in Skagway incognito. Eventually, Moore taught the moose to be put in harness, and he decided to hitch Carnation to a wagon and parade through town.

A local newspaper described the scene:

“All idle eyes in the business center of the city yesterday afternoon were amused by the sight of a fine specimen of the monarch of the woods, a moose, parading in the streets in harness and subservient to man,” the Skaguay News wrote on Dec. 30, 1899.

During his short tenure as a local attraction, Carnation was photographed, featured in stories and visited frequently, Brady writes. In 1900, the 2-year-old moose died, with his death attributed to gluttony – eating “too much clover,” a newspaper reported at the time.

Moore buried Carnation on his property and mounted the moose’s head above the piano in his home. Moore’s homestead is today a National Historical Landmark.

‘Asked many times to keep the moose out of the saloon’

A brief history of pet moose wouldn’t be complete without the infamous tale of one in Fairbanks that in 1913 annoyed city officials so much they crafted an ordinance against it.

Fairbanks bartender Pete Buckholtz acquired his calf from hunters, Alaska Dispatch News columnist Dermot Cole writes in his book “Fairbanks: A Gold Rush Town that Beat the Odds.”

The moose was fed potatoes and stale bread in winter months, and sometimes willow branches cut by Buckholtz. It was broken to harness and, like the other pet moose, could be hitched to a sled.

Docile and affectionate, the moose followed its owner around, including into the saloon where Buckholtz worked.

“Buckholtz had been asked many times to keep the moose out of the saloon, but he refused,” Cole writes.

Mayor Andrew Nerland decided that he had to do something about this nuisance moose. While the city didn’t have the power to ban the possession of a live moose, they found a loophole: They could ban moose from city sidewalks. And so they did, preventing the moose from legally entering the saloon.

If you have more information about historical game animals as pets, or any of the above men profiled, please email reporter Laurel Andrews at [email protected].

Alaska Dispatch Publishing

Two of the most common calibers on the market are the 5.56 rifle caliber cartridge and the 9mm pistol caliber cartridge. They’ve both been around for decades – the 9mm has been around for more than a century – and they’ve both cemented their place in the firearms world.

The popularity of these two calibers is driven by their diversity. They are used successfully in a wide variety of the same situations and settings despite being radically different in every way.

Let’s take a look at how 5.56 and 9mm stack up against one another while recognizing that it is indeed an apples to oranges comparison in many instances.

Specs of 5.56 & 9mm

The 5.56 cartridge and the 9mm cartridge are visual and technical polar opposites. The overall lengths between the two – both the bullets and the cartridges – are completely different. The weight of the bullets for each cartridge is also significantly different. Material makeup, however, is where their paths cross.

Here’s how the 5.56 and 9mm compare and contrast with one another in a series of crucial aspects.

Weight

Bullets in 9mm cartridges weigh more than bullets in 5.56 cartridges. The two most popular bullet weights for 9mm are 115 grains and 124 grains. For the 5.56, the two most popular bullet weights are 55 grains and 62 grains.

This means that the heavier 9mm bullets will leave the barrel with more energy than a 5.56 bullet, but the lighter 5.56 bullets will leave the barrel with more speed.

Materials

There’s a finite number of materials to use in the creation of cartridges, and so there’s a fair amount of overlap between the two calibers. Both can be made with steel or brass cartridge cases and both can be outfitted with bullets made from a variety of steel, copper, and lead alloys to fit certain purposes.

Length

The biggest visual difference between 5.56 and 9mm cartridges is their overall length. Since the 5.56 is designed for a rifle action and the 9mm is designed for a pistol action, they are vastly different in terms of size.

The average length of a 9mm cartridge is 1.16″ overall while the average length of a 5.56 cartridge is 2.26″ overall.

Noise Differences Between 9mm & 5.56

The 5.56 rifle cartridge is inherently more powerful than the 9mm pistol cartridge, so you might expect the 5.56 to be a lot louder than the 9mm, but that’s not the case. They’re actually pretty close to one another.

The 9mm cartridge averages about 166 decibels while the 5.56 cartridge averages about 169 decibels. Either way, that’s still very loud and well above the threshold of 140 decibels for hearing damage.

Both calibers benefit greatly from the use of a suppressor, and the sound levels can be brought down to a hearing-safe level when used in conjunction with the right load of ammo.

Ammunition for 9mm & 5.56

Because of the popularity of both 9mm and 5.56 calibers, there are a plethora of ammunition choices for each on the market. Do your own research based on the specific firearm and specific purpose before deciding on which kind of ammunition will work best for your application.

Subsonic ammo is available for both calibers, which eliminates the typical crack of a gunshot as it breaks the sound barrier. If you’re using subsonic ammo with a suppressor, you’ll definitely be bringing the decibel levels down to a hearing-safe level.

Just be aware that subsonic ammo operates differently in semi-automatic weapons, which depend on the gases to cycle the action of the gun. Make sure to test out your combinations before trusting your life to them.

Effectiveness of the Weapons

Weapons chambered in 5.56 or 9mm are incredibly effective. There’s a reason that the 9mm cartridge has been adopted the world over for police and military purposes when pistol-caliber weapons are applicable. In that same vein, the 5.56 cartridge is also popular all around the world where rifle-caliber weapons are applicable.

The simple fact of the matter is that these two calibers would not have survived and thrived for this long if they were not effective in their given weapons systems.

Accuracy

Both 9mm and 5.56 cartridges are very accurate. In the hands of a competent shooter who knows what they are doing, there’s no reason to expect anything other than accurate shots from a firearm chambered for 9mm or 5.56 ammo.

Uses for 9mm & 5.56

As you might have guessed, the popularity of the 9mm and 5.56 cartridges is due in no small part to the wide variety of uses to which they are suited. They often overlap one another for a variety of reasons and purposes and are used by countless individuals in similar situations who have determined for themselves that these calibers are the best choice for the given job.

Home Defense

A handgun or pistol caliber carbine chambered in 9mm is the gun-caliber combo of choice for countless people. A 9mm handgun can sit on the nightstand and be grabbed in a flash. Or, a 9mm pistol-caliber carbine can be retrieved quickly and provide the benefit of a longer barrel and accuracy with the same cartridge.

Similarly, AR-style pistols in 5.56 are common selections for plenty of people when it comes to home defense. You can have the power of the 5.56 in a smaller package that is more easily maneuvered through a home than would be possible with a 16″ carbine or even a 20″ rifle.

Hunting

Both calibers are very popular for hunting. Of course, it is key to know the specific type of ammo you will be using and how it performs when paired with the firearm of your choice. For example, you wouldn’t hunt squirrels with a 20″ rifle chambered in 5.56 and you wouldn’t hunt buffalo with a 4″ pistol chambered in 9mm.

As long as you make the proper pairing for the game you’re hunting, then there’s no reason not to use 9mm or 5.56 cartridges in those situations.

Marksmanship/Sport

Without a doubt, one of the most popular uses for 5.56 and 9mm cartridges is in the marksmanship and sports competition settings. There’s no shortage of training and competition opportunities for firearms in both calibers. In fact, there are some sports, such as 3-Gun, where you’ll use a handgun chambered in 9mm and a long gun chambered in 5.56 for different stages of the same match.

The Final Verdict: 5.56 vs 9mm

As we mentioned at the beginning, comparing 5.56 to 9mm is a sort of apples to oranges situation. Of course, there’s a great deal of overlap between the two, but the ultimate decision of which one to choose is up to you.

Regardless of which one you choose (or hey, choose both – this is America!), there’s no denying that the best way to step it up a notch is by shooting 9mm or 5.56 with a suppressor.

At Silencer Central, we have no shortage of great suppressor options for 9mm and 5.56 and we can make sure you’ve got the right one for your specific needs. Give us a call and we can talk you through your options and get you started on the path to suppressor ownership. We make the process as easy as it can be, letting you do the entire thing from the comfort of your own home.

From the initial paperwork to the final delivery to your door, we will handle it all for you. Get started today and enjoy the benefits of shooting 5.56 and 9mm suppressed!

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The Planet Quad team reports on the Can-Am Defender XT HD10 2022 – Test Ride a vehicle that needs no introduction. Introduced in 2016, this big workhorse side-by-side from BRP has made it into the top 3 in this market segment. The 2022 iteration brings its share of changes and most importantly, an engine overhaul. We take a look at it in detail with you!

Engine

First, we’ll discuss the engine that powers the 2022 Can-Am Defender. You can choose one of 3 different engines depending on what you want to use it for.

• The new HD7: A 650cc Rotax single-cylinder engine producing 52 horsepower and 41 lb*ft. It replaces the HD5 with 37% more power while reducing noise and vibration.

• The new HD9: A 976cc Rotax V-twin producing 65 horsepower and 59 lb*ft. The HD9 replaces the HD8 with an increased displacement that offers 30% more power than its predecessor.

• Last but not least, the HD10 is at the top of the list for its performance. A 976cc Rotax V-twin producing 82 horsepower and 69 lb*ft. Already present in previous models, it has been revised to offer better performance and reduce vibrations.

With this trio of engines, we have an excellent choice of engines that will fit your needs. Moreover, Rotax engines are known to offer; performance, reliability as well as an excellent smoothness of ride.

HD10: The engine of choice!

If you choose the HD10 as our test model, you will have more than enough power. With the HD10, you get a lot of power and torque right from the low rpm range. Moreover, we notice that Can-Am has put a lot of effort into reducing the noise level in the cabin up to medium rpm. When the throttle is fully depressed, you can hear the roar and have fun pushing the vehicle to its limits.

The HD10 is the team’s favorite engine, as it allows us to work hard without flinching and is a perfect match for the rigid chassis that this utility vehicle offers. On the other hand, you’ll still be able to exploit those sporty abilities even though that’s not the Defender’s primary vocation. The result is a versatile vehicle that’s always ready to get the job done and that can put a big smile on your face when you push the throttle more aggressively in a series of curves.

CVT Transmission

To efficiently transmit this power to the terrain, Can-Am opted for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). For the HD7 engine, we get the Pdrive with different transmission ratios: high and low speeds, park, neutral and reverse… the classic H-L-P-N-R found on almost all vehicles of this type with a few exceptions. We also get a standard engine brake that will be very useful for its vocation as a work vehicle.

On the HD9 and HD10 engines, the PRO-TORQ transmission with Quick Response System (QRS) technology is standard for even more precise and faster clutches. In addition, high-flow ventilation and electronic belt protection have been integrated to improve performance and, above all, belt life.

Can-Am has also included a button to select the driving mode. There are 3 different modes; ECO™, ECO™ Off and Work. These modes will act directly on the response of the accelerator pedal and on the injection mapping. One will be able to obtain a driving that favors a reduced fuel consumption or more aggressive and also a last one to favor clutches at very low speeds for work. The different modes are effectively felt and it is adapted to take full advantage of the versatility of the Can-Am Defender XT HD10 2022.

Driveability

On the dashboard there is also the driveability selection. In this way, you can ensure that the grass on your property is protected as much as possible with the rear differential “unlocked” so that the rear wheels can turn more freely in corners without trying to tear up the grass. Then there is the possibility of using 2 or 4 wheel drive as is standard on other models on the market.

In addition, we can count on a front differential with the Visco-Lok QE automatic locking system when engaged in 4-wheel drive mode. This way, when one of the front wheels starts to lose traction (skid), the differential locks in a fraction of a second and allows maximum traction.

Suspension

On the suspension side, we find twin-tube gas shocks as well as double-arched triangular arms. This gives us a generous 27.9 cm (11 in.) of travel, which is excellent for this market category. In addition, the arched arms allow for a wider clearance under the vehicle to limit the risk of catching stumps, for example.

Moving to the rear, we find the same type of twin-tube gas shocks as well as arched arms. Once again, the 27.9 cm (11 in.) of travel is more than enough for thi type of vehicle and will provide the confidence to navigate through any terrain.

With these suspension geometries and the arched arms, ground clearance is an impressive 33cm (13″). Can-Am has selected a suspension that is firm enough to handle the hard work you’ll be putting your Defender through. However, you won’t be outdone if you decide to push it more in gear or use it for trails. Comfort is still one of its strong points!

Interior and other features

When you step inside the Can-Am Defender XT HD10 2022, you find yourself surrounded by a very spacious cabin that can accommodate up to 3 passengers comfortably. The Versa Pro seats are very practical, as they allow you to stand up and use the storage boxes under them. Or to bring your dog with you without having to worry about it damaging the seats.

Many storage compartments are integrated (16.2 gallons total) and well thought out, such as the glove compartment that turns into a transportable tool box by lifting the handle that locks it in place. In all respects, the finish is exemplary and the Defenders are a credit to what we know of Can-Am vehicles.

Our test model, the XT version, comes with several standard features. Thus, we are entitled to a 4500lb winch, a front bumper and an aluminum protection plate under the vehicle. You can see on the pictures that our test model comes equipped with other accessories like a retractable windshield and rock sliders. One of the good points of choosing the Can-Am Defender is certainly to have access to a mountain of accessories to configure your vehicle to your image and to make sure that it will be functional for the various applications for which you will use it.

Defender Capabilities

When you have a work vehicle, you expect to put it to the test and it was designed to take it! With the best towing capacity in the industry at 2500lbs, you’ll be able to tow anything you can think of. Plus, the cargo bed can accommodate things up to 1000 lbs. It’s easy to tip with the handles on each side and its air shock that controls the movement smoothly. It is even possible to add an electric servo to raise and lower it. This is everything you need to make the Defender your best work partner.

Driving impressions of the Can-Am Defender XT HD10 2022

During the test drive, we were able to test the Defender in many different situations. On the trails, the engine provides more than enough power to get us through the curves and put a smile on our faces. The suspension does a great job and the ride is quite precise. However, when you increase the pace, you’ll notice that he power steering is too much present and you’ll notice a certain “blur” in the driving.

When you put the Defender to work, you will appreciate its engine braking system, which means that you hardly use the brakes. This makes for a smoother ride when going downhill and when towing, for example. The turning circle is also noteworthy because it is very tight. It is therefore easy to drive around the yard or when doing work in the woods without having to go back and forth several times.

In summary, the HD10 engine is really powerful, quiet and economical. The suspension is well calibrated for the vehicle and its utility vocation. The interior is comfortable and well designed. It really has everything to be a real “work horse”!

The positive points:

• 3 choices of engines to adapt to the different possible uses
• Very powerful HD10 engine, generous torque and relatively quiet
• Suspensions are quite firm, but well calibrated for utility and sometimes more ”sporty” use.
• Attention to detail and assembly quality worthy of mention.

Points to improve:

• Very generous dimensions that can become a disadvantage on narrow trails. Especially in the extended wheelbase and MAX versions (6 seats)
• The power steering intervenes too much at higher speeds and we lose some driving precision.
• With the asking price of the XT version, it would be interesting to have doors and not only nets.

Conclusion

These many hours behind the wheel of the Can-Am Defender XT HD10 2022 allowed us to appreciate it at its full potential. It’s a pleasure to drive when you’re out on the trails. When we put it to work, where it is fully at ease, we are confident that it will accomplish all the tasks we ask of it!

If you would like more information on Can-Am models, visit the website or your nearest dealer.

Numerous subgenres enrich the fantastic world of guns. Sniper rifles, assault rifles, and other types of sporting weapons fall under this category. Of course, everyone loves a good sniper rifle, so we’ve decided to spend today hunting down the most cutting-edge ones available.

What is a sniper rifle?

Most people, or at least the majority of them, believe they know exactly what a sniper rifle is. A scope does not instantly transform a firearm into a sniper rifle. Naturally, accuracy is a vital factor, but the gun must be capable and effective in tactical situations. Many very accurate guns are made solely for competition and wouldn’t hold up well in a nation that has recently experienced civil war.

These requirements frequently call for the gun to be portable or simple to handle. It should have a scope, which in the present day means that it should work with contemporary night vision equipment. Effective range is crucial, as is accuracy.

Sniper rifles should have no trouble reaching out and touching a target. At the very least, a full-powered rifle cartridge is needed for this. To enhance range and counter challenges from contemporary armor, the majority of modern sniper rifles are striving for larger, more powerful ammunition.

So what are the top sniper rifles available today?

Listed below are the top 15 sniper rifles that are employed in various vital operations. It includes a few recently approved guns that are just now becoming online. There are a few sniper rifles in it that are not widely known yet but fill an interesting need. It excludes pre-production prototypes as well as outdated, no-longer-in-use sniper rifles.

These are the current top 15 sniper rifles in the world :

McMillan TAC-50, United States

Produced by McMillan Brothers Rifles, the McMillan TAC-50 is a long-range anti-material and sniper rifle. The words “tactical” and “.50 BMG” (12.7×99 mm) are used to describe it. The 1980s saw the creation of the TAC-50. This weapon is based on earlier creations from the same manufacturer. However, the Canadian Armed Forces only began using this sniper rifle in 2000.

Elite military and law enforcement units from several nations utilize this firearm. Canada, France, Georgia, Israel, Jordan, the Philippines, South Africa, Turkey, and the United States are among the countries that employ the McMillan TAC-50. It is known as the C15 Long Range Sniper Weapon in Canadian service. The TAC-50, also known as the Mk.15, is used by U.S. Navy SEALs.

It is possible to utilize the McMillan TAC-50 as a long-range anti-material weapon. This weapon has the ability to destroy vital enemy assets, including trucks, radar systems, parked aircraft, and other sensitive equipment at a distance. Additionally, it can be used to remotely destroy explosive ordnance.

Another application for the TAC-50 is a long-range sniper rifle. At standoff range, it can neutralize opposing snipers. Due to the rifle’s powerful ammunition’s ability to pierce through brick and concrete, it can also be utilized to strike enemy soldiers who are concealed behind cover and walls.

Barrett M82A1, United States

The Barrett Firearms Manufacturing firm created and developed the semi-automatic anti-material rifle known as the Barrett M82. Early in the 1980s, work on this potent anti-material gun started. By 1982, operational versions were created; consequently, M82. It is important to note that the M82 is not a U.S. military designation but rather a business designation. In 1989, the business successfully sold 100 weapons to the Swedish Armed Forces.

The US Marine Corps acquired about 125 of these rifles in 1990-1991. Orders from the U.S. Army and Air Force soon followed. Nearly 60 nations currently utilize this anti-material rifle in their armed forces and law enforcement. This anti-material rifle is employed as a long-range anti-personnel sniper weapon in a number of nations.

This weapon was meant to be used at a distance to destroy sensitive enemy equipment, such as parked aircraft, radar systems, vehicles, and other significant assets. It is used to destroy explosive ordnance remotely. The Barrett M82 is a long-range sniper rifle, even though it was initially intended to be an anti-material rifle.

Accuracy International AS50, United Kingdom

This firearm is the British gunmaker accuracy global’s 50 BMG anti-material precision rifle, the Accuracy International AS50. It has a muzzle velocity of 800 to 900 m/s, can engage with targets at a distance of 1,800 m, and is fed by 5 or 10 spherical detachable field journals.

Users can engage with targets at extremely great distances with high accuracy utilizing explosive or incendiary bullets thanks to the rifle’s 1.5 moa accuracy and the as50. As opposed to the aw50 bolt action rifle, the as50 has a gas-operated semi-automatic motion with a muzzle brake, which results in reduced recoil and quicker target acquisition. The weapon is lightweight, ergonomic, and incredibly portable. Without using any tools, it can be disassembled in under three minutes and fixed.

Accuracy International AWM, United Kingdom

The above-shown British sniper rifle is called the Arctic Warfare Magnum (AWM) which is the creation of the business Accuracy International. It is a more potent variation of the Arctic Warfare sniper rifle that is made to work with more potent and substantial Magnum-type rounds. The designation’s use of the word “Magnum” refers to the Magnum chambering. This weapon comes in two major variations; each chambered for the.300 Winchester Magnum and.338 Lapua Magnum rounds.

In 1996, this weapon was adopted. A .300 Winchester Magnum-caliber variant is in use with the Czech Republic, Germany (known as the G22 regionally), and a few other nations. At least 14 nations, including Ireland, Israel, Italy, Malaysia, the Netherlands, Norway, South Korea, and the United Kingdom, have adopted a different version that is chambered for the.338 Lapua Magnum. This sniper weapon was used in battles in Afghanistan and Iraq.

It is a sniper rifle with a bolt mechanism. The Arctic Warfare Magnum is essentially the same as the original Arctic Warfare sniper rifle, with the addition of a longer bolt to accommodate the heavier and more potent Magnum-type ammunition. This weapon features a 660 mm (26″) stainless steel barrel. It is fueled by removable 5-round magazines.

Dragunov SVD, Soviet Union

The SVD, the premier sniper rifle of the Soviet Union and its allies, must be included on any list of the best sniper rifles. The oldest rifle on this list, it was created by Yevgeny Dragunov in the late 1950s and entered service in 1963.

Although the SVD’s controls resemble those of an AK-47/74, it is not a derivative of the A.K. Similar to the A.K.; however, the SVD has been created by numerous nations in a variety of forms, making it challenging to keep track of them all, let alone summarise the platform in a little piece like this. Yet we’ll give it a shot.

The cartridge the SVD employs is the 7.6254 Rimmed, which isn’t well known by most American shooters and hunters but has achieved legendary status among military and sniper nerds due to its ranking as one of the top two or three most lethal sniper cartridges in history and deserving of the top spot, in some people’s opinions. The second-oldest cartridge still in use by the military is this one.

M24, United States

The M24 SWS (Sniper Weapon System), which is based on the Remington Model 700 rifle, is the main sniper rifle used by the U.S. Army. It was initially deployed in 1988 after being designed in the 1980s to replace the Springfield Armory M21. The M24 was essentially the first firearm created specifically for sniping by the Army.

It is classified as a “weapon system” as opposed to just a weapon because it comes with a removable telescopic sight and a number of other equipment and accessories in a single box. Additionally, the U.S. Air Force uses it.

The M24 is a bolt action rifle that can contain either 5 or 10 rounds in its detachable box magazine, depending on the variant. Either a Leupold Mk 4 LR/T M3 1040 mm fixed power scope or a Leupold Ultra M3A 1042 mm fixed power can be tapped into it. Additionally, iron sights are installed as a backup for the scope.

Sako TRG 42, Finland

The SAKO TRG 42 is a long-range sniper rifle made in Finland. One of the best sniper rifles in the entire world, in fact. It is a production-level upgrade of the prior SAKO TRG 41. A redesigned stock design is one of the TRG 42’s advantages over the TRG 41. Additionally, this weapon is capable of firing cartridges up to 95 mm in length, which are more potent.

The preceding TRG 41 was superseded in production in 1999 by the SAKO TGR 42. At least 14 nations from around the world, including the Finnish Defense Forces, use this sniper rifle in combat. Army troops and special forces are the principal users. There are also some users in law enforcement.

CheyTac M200 Intervention, United States

The longest-range sniper rifle in the world is the CheyTac M200 Intervention. It has an amazing two 122 m range and holds the world record for the best group of three bullets. This weapon has an 1830 m effective range. One of the best sniper rifles ever made is the Intervention. But for some reason, the military ignores this.

Why aren’t more of these weapons being produced if they are so good? Only a few elite groups, like the British SAS, Polish GROM, Italian, Singaporean, and Turkish special forces, employ the Intervention rifle. According to certain publications, this weapon is also used by the U.S. Navy SEALs. Although it performs well, this weapon is not very well known. The CheyTac M200 Intervention’s extreme range may not be necessary for most tactical circumstances, which is maybe the key factor.

Desert Tech SRS A2, United States

The small Desert Tech SRS A2 offers a lot of adaptabilities. Depending on the needs of the shooter, it is a switch-barrel platform that can accommodate both short- and long-action cartridges. Its modular construction makes it simple to adapt the gun to different needs.

Although it isn’t as popular as some of the other sniper rifles on this list, many militaries throughout the world use it, and both domestic and foreign law enforcement agencies have adopted it.

The following are some of the rifle’s highlights:

• Intelligent design for a bullpup’s body
• Easily interchangeable barrels and cartridges
• Superb accuracy and a smooth trigger, especially for a bullpup.

Some may find the last point to be the most important. The Desert Tech SRS A2 is an excellent choice for target shooters who shoot for fun. The SRS can be customized for long-range shooting, predator control, and suburban hunting using subsonic ammunition or general hunting, provided the shooter is willing to put up with the rifle’s weight.

Barrett MRAD, United States

Both the U.S. Army and Marine Corps had great success with the Barrett MRAD. The SOCOM Precision Sniper Rifle program was the original inspiration for the MRAD or Multi-role Adaptive Design. Sniper rifles are Barretts’ bread and butter; therefore, the company has always been game to try new things in terms of design and functionality.

The MRAD has many impressive features, but its ability to quickly change calibers is what really sets it apart. Changing calibers requires the removal of two Torx screws, a new bolt face, and perhaps a new magazine. Every barrel features a bolt face that is factory headspaced, eliminating a significant issue with quick caliber changes.

Steyr SSG 69, Austria

The Austrian sniper rifle was known as the Steyr Scharfschutzengewehr 69 (or SSG 69 for short). Outwardly, it looks like a hunting rifle, although it was actually developed to be a military and police weapon. The Austrian Army has been hunting for a cutting-edge sniper rifle since the 1960s.

The Austrian Army officially accepted the Steyr-designed rifle as its regular sniper weapon in 1969, hence the name. After Steyr-Daimler-Puch was divided, the firearms division became a separate entity. This sniper rifle was manufactured by Steyr Mannlicher from 1987 to 1989.

At some point, this weapon became famous for its remarkable accuracy and was adopted by a number of governments from all over the world. The SSG 69 is widely regarded as one of the best sniper rifles available today. Argentina, Chile, Greece, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Jordan, Netherlands, Pakistan, Peru, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey are some of the export-operating countries in the world.

US BORTAC border patrol agents also utilize this sniper weapon. Many military engagements and wars were fought using this weapon. There were no updates to the SSG 69 in almost 40 years of production. Only in 2015 did they stop making it. The SSG 08, a modern sniper rifle, eventually replaced it.

Knight’s SR-25, United States

Knight’s Armory is a legendary manufacturer that has supplied some of our finest soldiers with cutting-edge firearms. Their rail designs are used by nearly all military systems, and they have supplied Special Operations personnel with weapons and suppressors for years. The SR-25 was a major improvement upon the AR-10 platform.

The Stoner Rifle, a 7.62 NATO AR, was developed by Eugene Stoner in collaboration with Knight’s Armory. Since then, some of the world’s finest troops have relied on this gas-operated, semi-automatic, direct-impact weapon. The SR-25 was one of the first semi-automatic sniper rifles to prove its worth during a time when the bolt action sniper rifle was king.

The SR-25 was updated to reflect new developments in warfare. When adopted by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps, it was given the designation “Mk11” by SOCOM. The Mk11 saw active duty with multiple sniper units until 2017 and showed its mettle in the War on Terror.

M40, United States

The US Marine Corps uses the M40 rifle, a bolt-action sniper weapon. The M40, M40A1, M40A3, and M40A5 are its four variations. In 1966, the M40 was first released. The A1 model transition was finished in the 1970s, the A3 model in the 2000s, and the A5 model in 2009.

At Marine Corps Base Quantico, USMC armorers modify Remington Model 700 bolt-action rifles to create the M40s, which are then assembled using parts from a variety of sources. As A1s rotate into the armory for maintenance and repair, they are upgraded to A3s and A5s while new M40A5s are being constructed.

Numerous telescopic sight variations and smaller user modifications have been made to the guns. The M40A5 has a threaded barrel that can be used with a sound suppressor or similar muzzle device and a detachable magazine. The first M40 was a factory-made, one-piece wooden stock, military-type-classified variant of the Remington 700.

B&T USA 300SPR ProFN SCAR Mk 20 SSR, Belgium

The SCAR family of rifles from F.N. has undergone various modifications to provide special operation soldiers with a platform that can do it all. The civilian version of the M.K. 20 SSR is known as the SCAR 20S. The M.K. 20 SSR, or sniper support weapon, is a semi-automatic, short-stroke gas piston rifle that uses the 7.62 NATO cartridge, which is America’s preferred round. The 6.5 Creedmoor is another alternative for shooters in the general public.

Even though F.N.’s SCAR series was already quite accurate, they went above and above with the SSR to make sure it offered top-tier accuracy for a semi-auto rifle. The full-length monolithic upper receiver of the 20S model SCAR enables snipers to add a variety of lenses. This covers optical systems for both day and night, laser aiming tools, and more.

Although the M.K. 20 SSR doesn’t have the greatest range, it does have accurate, quick-fire capabilities for close-to-moderate range precision. Fortunately, F.N. produced a civilian version of the weapon that is identical to the military version.

Sig SSG 3000, Germany

This sniper rifle is the SIG Scharfschutzengewehr 3000, also known as SSG 3000. Despite having the appearance of a hunting rifle, this weapon is designed for use in conflict. This sniper rifle was created specifically for use by the military and police enforcement. Germany was the location of this sniper rifle’s manufacturing.

In both Europe and the U.S., law enforcement agencies frequently employ the SSG 3000. Numerous special forces groups and military organizations from around the world also use it. There is no longer a supply of the SSG 3000 sniper rifle.

The SSG 3000 is a bolt-action gun that can fire 7.62×51 mm (.308 Winchester) NATO bullets. The barrel length for this sniper rifle is either 457 mm (18″) or 597 mm (23.5″). A new stock caused the SSG 3000’s appearance to vary over the course of manufacture.

The stock has a comparable design, despite some little modifications in the upgraded model. The sniper weapon in question was built to survive rigorous use. This weapon gained notoriety for its superior quality, longevity, and accuracy.

It was intended for the SSG 3000 to be a modular weapon. In a few minutes, the barrel can be quickly changed. This sniper rifle may be quickly changed to fire the .260 Remington cartridge using the SIG conversion kit. Although loaded at higher pressures, the.260 Remington is based on the.308 Winchester cartridge.

Gun access and control has long been a contentious and divisive issue in the United States. While political discourse and legislative action have often focused on this topic, students who are deeply affected by it often go unheard. We will examine their complex views regarding access to legal firearms across the nation, investigate factors that sway their opinions, consider gun culture’s effects, as well as explore opportunities for constructive dialogue and policy reform.

Student Views on Global Issues

• Advocates of Stricter Gun Control: Many students are vocal advocates for stricter gun control measures, citing concerns over mass shootings, firearm-related accidents, and how easily firearms can be acquired. According to their arguments, more stringent background checks, waiting periods, and restrictions on high-capacity magazines must be implemented in order to enhance public safety.

• Supporters of Second Amendment Rights: Conversely, some students firmly uphold the Second Amendment and the right to bear arms. They see firearms as essential tools for self-defense and believe responsible gun ownership is part of American culture; in their view, enforcing existing laws rather than implementing additional restrictions should be the focus.

• Advocates of Compromise: Many students find a middle ground by understanding both Second Amendment rights and public safety as paramount concerns. They advocate for finding reasonable solutions such as universal background checks, closing legal loopholes while protecting responsible gun owners’ rights, and stressing the importance of bipartisan cooperation to address the issue effectively.

Factors Influencing Student Attitudes

• Personal Experiences: Students’ perspectives on gun access often depend on their personal experiences. For instance, those directly affected by violence or accidents caused by firearms may lean towards tighter controls on gun ownership. In contrast, individuals from families celebrating Second Amendment rights could rely more heavily on supporting these rights. The same rule works when students don’t trust all writing services because they faced a scam service ones in the past. Still, those who often pay for homework on WritePaperForMe know they can rely on professional assistance if struggling with academic assignments. 

• Media Influence: Media coverage can have a powerful influence on students’ perceptions of firearms. Overly sensationalized coverage of mass shootings or gun incidents may heighten concerns about gun violence, prompting some students to advocate for tighter gun regulations.

• Geographic Location: Students’ geographical locations may play a factor in shaping their opinions regarding firearms. Urban students may advocate for tighter gun regulations due to higher rates of gun violence, while rural students may view firearms more favorably for hunting or sport shooting purposes.

• Politics: Students’ political ideologies often intersect with their perspectives on gun control. Liberal-leaning students may tend to favor stricter measures, while conservative students might emphasize Second Amendment rights more prominently, but there can be exceptions, and those from diverse political backgrounds can offer nuanced perspectives.

Gun Culture

American history and identity play an influential role in shaping students’ perspectives about firearms. Students raised in families that traditionally respect gun ownership may view firearms as symbols of self-reliance, protection, hunting, or shooting sports recreational activities; on the other hand, those exposed to violent gun crime may view firearms with more distrust, associating them with tragedy or danger.

Gun culture plays an integral role in developing responsible gun ownership among its adherents. Students raised in such environments often promote safe storage practices, education programs, and responsible firearm use – emphasizing the distinction between responsible gun owners and criminals who misuse firearms.

Alternative Ways for Constructive Dialogue

Engaging in meaningful dialogue about gun access issues and finding common ground can be challenging yet achievable. Here are some avenues that may facilitate constructive dialogue:

• Student-Led Initiatives: Students can organize and participate in open forums, town hall meetings, and campus discussions on gun access to share their perspectives and identify possible solutions. These platforms allow all perspectives to be presented while exploring potential solutions.

• Research and Education: Teaching students about gun laws, statistics, and the history behind the Second Amendment can lead to more informed discussions and bridge gaps in understanding. Fostering critical thinking and factual analysis can foster meaningful engagements that promote understanding.

• Advocacy and Lobbying: Students looking to influence gun policy can engage in advocacy efforts at local, state, and national levels. Joining or creating student organizations dedicated to responsible gun ownership and gun safety may also be effective strategies.

• Mental Health and Violence Prevention: Focusing on mental health as an approach to gun violence prevention can garner widespread support, with students advocating for increased access to mental health services and enhanced reporting mechanisms in order to identify individuals who present risks.

Conclusion

Student gun debates are complex affairs, reflecting personal experiences, media influence, geography, and political ideology in various ways. Understanding these divergent viewpoints is essential to creating constructive dialogue and finding viable policy solutions.

Although the gun access debate remains heated and complex, students can play an invaluable role in shaping its direction. By engaging in open, respectful discussions about evidence-based policies and emphasizing responsible gun ownership, students can help shape a more informed national dialogue on this vital subject. Finding common ground and responding to all stakeholders are necessary steps toward creating a balanced and effective solution regarding gun access within our nation’s borders.

Recent biological studies demonstrate very clearly that white-tailed deer not only perceive their environment in fine detail, but are able to respond immediately to risks and pressure.

Legal light ends in just a few minutes, but you dare not move. You’ve heard a few deer staging around you for the past half hour, and not long ago you heard the bark of your brother’s rifle from a stand not a quarter mile away.

By Dr. Stephen Ditchkoff and Jeff Sullivan

Yet, like many nights before, you’ve been left with nothing but an aching back and a dream of what might have been, while the deer that so patiently waited for darkness to fall feast upon the food plot you leave behind. This spot used to be packed with deer, but as the season comes to a close it seems that what was once your secret honey hole has lost its magic. Now you can do nothing but wonder what gave you away, and what to change for next season.

Not surprisingly, though deer hunters across the country come from a myriad of backgrounds they all seem able to relate to one issue — sometimes it feels like the deer know where you will be before you get there. While this is an often perplexing and frustrating phenomenon for hunters, biologists have been studying the reactions of wildlife to predators for decades and have developed a theory that appears to explain the activities of whitetails during the hunting season.

LANDSCAPE OF FEAR THEORY The landscape of fear theory suggests that animals are consistently at risk from predators, which in this case would be human hunters, and that the level of risk changes based upon two main factors. First is the animal’s location: While wild predators such as wolves might be more dangerous along grassy meadows, human hunters often concentrate near roadways and open areas, and often hunt repeatedly from the same location.

The second major factor influencing risk is the time of day. For instance, human hunters are limited by legal hunting times, and most often sit only during the periods around sunrise and sunset, abandoning their stands during the midday hours. This theory can be visualized as a mountain range where mountain peaks are areas of greatest risk and valleys are areas of greatest safety. Throughout the course of a day, each area’s height changes as the risk levels associated with that area change. The objective for prey species is to stay at the lowest possible elevation while still accessing all of the resources they need to survive and reproduce.

Previous studies have long confirmed what hunters already know; deer can recognize changes in risk and react as one would expect under the landscape of fear theory. Studies ranging as far back as the 1960s have demonstrated that when hunting pressure is sufficiently high, deer increase their use of dense cover areas such as thickets or hardwood drains and then use risky areas such as bait piles only during safe periods, such as nocturnal hours. Similarly, studies have found that activity patterns of deer are such that they are more active when hunters are not in the woods and less active when they are.

A fellow researcher, Kevyn Wiskirchen, with Auburn University, recently wrote an article (in the September 2016 issue of Deer & Deer Hunting) documenting just such a pattern. He detailed how white-tailed deer suppress movement during the weekend to minimize exposure to humans. But when hunters are absent from the woods during the week, the deer become much more active.

While these studies have provided great insight into larger behavioral trends, they have all examined hunt- ing pressure in relation to an entire property or large landscape, leaving the question of how deer respond to risk at specific locations unanswered. Essentially, until now scientists have not been able to account for the potential that deer could recognize risk at a spatial scale as fine as individual hunting locations and respond accordingly. It is quite possible that the responses seen at the landscape scale are completely different from what is seen in relation to actual locations of risk, especially when hunting pressure is kept very low across a property. Fortunately, advances in technology now enable scientists to investigate such detailed behaviors.

RESPONSE TO LOCALIZED RISK Due to the general lack of data, and thus, understanding of how white- tailed deer respond to localized risk, we, with financial support from the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, set out to examine this aspect of deer biology and determine the movement patterns of adult does during the hunting season with respect to hunting stands.

To accomplish our goal we darted adult female white-tailed deer and fit each with a GPS collar programmed to collect locational data every 30 minutes, allowing us to gather highly detailed information on deer movement relative to hunting pressure. Hunting on the property was strictly managed, with hunters taken to and picked up from permanent stands by guides.

We determined the GPS coordinates of every hunting stand, food plot and automatic feeder on the property, and determined the area around each stand in which a deer would be visible to a hunter (which we called the vulnerability zone). We then combined all of this information with the movement data collected by the GPS collars, and imported it into a data visualization tool known as ArcMap. This software enabled us to actually see how deer moved each day, and where they were located on the property.

We were interested in understanding how deer moved during three specific periods: Morning/Evening (from legal light to 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. to legal light), Midday (from 8 a.m. until 3 p.m.), and Night (from end of legal light to beginning of legal light the next morning). These periods were based upon changes in risk, as hunters were present only during the Morning/Evening period, a scenario likely to be true for most regions of the country where hunters choose not to sit throughout the midday hours.

Traditional knowledge, and the landscape of fear theory, would suggest that repeated hunting events at the same location would force deer to recognize that area as being of greater risk, and subsequently deer would reduce their usage of that area during times when hunters would be present, namely surrounding sunrise and sunset. This is precisely what we observed. With each additional hunting event at a given stand, deer became increasingly less likely to use the vulnerability zone around that stand during mornings and evenings (Figure 1).

Similarly, following the day that a stand was hunted, deer use of the vulnerability zone around that stand during the Morning/Evening period was at its least. But deer use of that area progressively increased with each passing day. This result was also expected, because the fear response of an animal should decrease over time, especially in hunting environments where most stands are associated with a food source such as a food plot or corn feeder. When the areas of risk are associated with a food reward, the animal must balance the trade-off of avoiding risk with miss- ing out on the nutritional benefits of visiting that location.

Next, we looked at movements during the Midday period. Interestingly, previous studies at the landscape scale had reported conflicting results. Some studies suggested that deer increase activity during midday hours as a way to make up for lost opportunities when they avoid moving during crepuscular periods, while others have claimed that deer remain cryptic during all daylight hours, thus reducing usage of risky areas.

We found that deer followed the same trends during the Midday period as they did during the Morning/Evening period. That is to say that they decreased usage of vulnerability zones around hunting stands following each additional hunting event, but increased usage as time passed. Surprisingly, we observed that deer were far less likely to utilize the vulnerability zone around a stand during the Midday period than during the Morning/Evening period.

This might seem surprising at first, because deer could safely use these areas during the midday without the risk of being exposed to hunters. We believe that this response is due to the natural feeding behavior of deer being focused on crepuscular periods and the fact that vehicle traffic through the property might have been sufficient during the Midday period to make the vulnerability zones appear risky even if they were not.

While the responses we observed during the Morning/Evening and Midday periods were much as one would expect, a very interesting trend emerged during the Night period. We have all heard a hunter complain that “all of the deer have gone nocturnal” and you might very well be that hunter yourself. If so, it probably wouldn’t surprise you to hear that deer initially increased their usage of a vulnerability zone around a stand following the first few hunting events at that location and decreased usage with each passing night since hunting had occurred. Yet this trend changed with additional continued hunting pressure at that stand. After a fourth hunting event at a given location, deer became less likely to use the vulnerability zone immediately following a hunting event and slowly increased usage with each passing day (Figure 2).

Essentially, after continued hunting pressure at a particular stand, deer changed their behavioral response at night to the same avoidance we observed during the Morning/ Evening period. This suggests that deer respond to initial hunting events by simply accessing the area during a safe time and their fear decreases as time passes. But as hunters use the area more, deer respond by avoiding the area altogether. Perhaps the deer decide, in essence, to move on to safer pastures where they may be able to feed during Morning/Evening hours instead of confining themselves to nocturnal hours only.

BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION Our findings provide us with unique insight into the behavior of white-tailed deer in response to pressure from human hunters. While hunters have long known that white- tails have the ability to modify their behavior and space use in response to hunting pressure, this study has allowed us to document exactly how deer respond to spatially explicit risk and how that response differs from responses visible at the landscape level.

While one could look at the landscape level response of this population and assume that hunting pressure was not sufficiently strong enough to force deer to alter their behavior, a more thorough investigation reveals that deer are in fact recognizing and responding to the risks posed by hunters: They are merely doing so at a small enough spatial scale to reduce the impacts on their regular activities.

It’s this minor variation in their movement and activity patterns that make it seem as though there aren’t any deer in the woods. Some might view deer as creatures randomly moving through the woods from one field to the next, but this study demonstrates that white-tailed deer not only perceive their environment in fine detail, but are able to respond to risks immediately and use infor- mation about past risk at a location to make informed future decisions about using or avoiding that location.

TAKEAWAYS FROM THE STUDY So what does this mean for you as a hunter? Well, there are a few clear takeaways from this study that you can use to aid your quest this fall. First, no matter how little you are hunting an area you are influencing the likelihood of a deer using that area again, at least for a few days. Even if you never fire the gun, there is a strong likelihood that you were still detected by at least a few deer.

While you might have still had plenty of deer come and go blissfully unaware of your presence, others might have been spooked off as they approached from downwind, or smelled the disturbance along the path you used to reach your stand. Therefore, after hunting a location try and give that stand a few days off so that the fear response can decrease before your next hunt.

Secondly, understand how the length of your season might impact deer behavior. If you live in a New England state with shorter seasons you can expect deer to have a much stronger reaction across the landscape to hunting pressure than in Southern states with more prolonged seasons. When the season is shorter, deer can afford to avoid high value areas (food plots and feeders) for the brief season and return when it’s safer, but such avoidance might be nutritionally prohibitive in states with longer hunting seasons.

Finally, consider moving your hunting stands between seasons, while this study did not investigate if the number of hunting events at a stand the year prior caused deer to avoid an area more quickly the next season, it is a good idea to reduce your predict- ability as much as possible.

We as hunters attempt to pattern deer almost every way imaginable, from extensive scouting and note taking from years on a property to a network of game cameras trying to locate that trophy buck. Yet, with all of the effort we direct toward patterning them, it can become all too easy to forget that deer are also capable of patterning us. So this coming season, as the days grow shorter and your heart gets restless, yearning for an all too brief escape into the peaceful hunting grounds, do your best to be aware of your own patterns and embrace the opportunity to outwit your prey — not by attempting to understand their predictability, but by limiting your own.

— Jeff Sullivan completed his M.S. degree in 2016 at Auburn University studying white-tailed deer under the supervision of Dr. Steve Ditchkoff. He is currently employed by USGS at the Patuxent Wildlife Research Center.

— Dr. Steve Ditchkoff is a professor in the School of Forestry and Wild- life Sciences at Auburn University. He manages the deer research program at Auburn and has been conducting research on white-tailed deer for 25 years.