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• About The Frankfurt or New England Roll
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Red frankfurters in a grocery case in Lewiston, Maine. Local and regional traditions are important in many ways, and can be informational, historical, or even humorous in nature. For example, some of the oddest hot dogs I’ve seen are the red frankfurters of Maine. I was curious when I saw these in the grocery store so I asked a manager if they were hot or somehow spicy. “No, they’re not.” How are they different from other natural casing frankfurters from the same meatpackers? “They taste the same” was the answer. Then why are they red? “I really don’t know, that’s always confused me, too.”

Red frankfurters are served in what are called Frankfurter or Frankfort Rolls.

Curious, I flipped over one of the packages of red frankfurters:

Ingredients: Beef and pork, water, corn syrup, contains 2% or less of salt, potassium lactate, flavorings (including extractives of paprika), dextrose, sodium diacetate, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), sodium nitrate, FD&C red #40 and red #3, in a natural lamb casing.

Searching the case I found some meatpackers also throw in FD&C Yellow #6.

I then located the Natural Casing Frankfurters from the same meatpacker:

Ingredients: Beef and pork, water, corn syrup, contains 2% or less of salt, potassium lactate, flavorings (including extractives of paprika), dextrose, sodium diacetate, ascorbic acid (vitamin C), sodium nitrate, in a natural lamb casing.

The only obvious difference is the red coloring. The amounts of the other ingredients may have differed, but it wasn’t likely. From a food manufacturing standpoint, I imagined the process would put the completed natural casing frankfurters through a vat of dye prior to packaging.

None of it made any sense at all.

Prepping the red hot dogs and buns in an electric skillet. The buns are buttered before grilling.

Local media in Maine reports on this from time-to-time, noting not only the popularity but also versions of the reason behind the red coloring:

“W.A. Bean & Sons … has been making the natural casing treats since 1918 … ‘We are the only makers of the red hot dogs left in the state of Maine,’ [Sean Smith, director of marketing and sales development] said … W.A. Bean produces an estimated 400,000 pounds of snappers each year, both under its own name and the Rice’s label that the family began producing nearly a decade ago, after negotiating a deal with its former owner and former competitor.

Smith said the company used to have a large U.S. map on display, with push pins marking everywhere their snappers were shipped, sometimes in orders as large as 10 pounds at a time. Over time, the map became so crowded that maintaining it was no longer feasible … Maine exiles also snatch them up while visiting ‘home’ to bring back to share with their families and friends, Smith said, noting that one W.A. Bean fan from North Carolina drives north every three or four weeks to get a fix of his favorite dog.

It isn’t entirely clear why the red coloring was introduced. One legend has it that the coloring historically was added by the original European makers of frankfurters to mask less-than-premium ingredients … Smith, however, speculated that W.A. Bean added its signature coloring as a way of making its frankfurters stand out amid a sea of competitors. ‘And it took off.’” [Gagnon, 2012]

It’s the perception of the red vs. natural colorings that is odd, that not only do people prefer it but that they’ll go to great lengths to make sure that’s what they eat, even though there are no flavor differences.

I also know of one sixth grader in 2018 who will only eat the red ones because, as his mom laughingly told me on social media, “My son won’t eat the brown. Says they taste weird.” Another acquaintance had this to say:

“Red hot dogs are popular in Hawaii too. When I was signing the papers to close on the house, the mortgage guy was telling us all about a trip he just took to NY, but he ended up staying in the room because he got sick and he thought it was the ‘brown hot dogs’, his colleague said, disgustedly, ‘YOU eat BROWN hotdogs?!’ The rest of us died laughing.”

The cuisinologist in me had to discover the true origin, and as it turns out, it does exist. The London-based Newcomen Society “exists to encourage study of the history of engineering and technology from ancient times to the present day.” The former American arm of the Society, founded in 1939 and disbanded in 2007, held their “1992 Maine Meeting” in Portland. Joseph “Chet” Jordan, grandson of the local meatpacker Jordan’s Meats founder and Chairman of the company at the time, was the Guest Of Honor. He gave the address “Jordan’s Meats: A Thriving Business in Its Third Generation-built Primarily on ‘hot Dogs’” on October 9th. The Society subsequently published the text of his address in 1993 as a 24-page pamphlet with historical photos from Jordan’s Meats. Mr. Jordan’s address specifically addressed the history of Maine’s red frankfurters.

“… Charles and Richard Schonland … were sons of German immigrants, and their father ran the leading sausage business in Lawrence [Massachusetts]. In 1891, the brothers had decided to found their own company and ‘investigated several cities’ before deciding on Portland. Schonlands began operations in a leased building … but later built their own building … Schonlands introduced the so called ‘red franks’ to Maine, and their distribution was Portland, Lewiston, Auburn, Biddeford, Saco and Sanford. This is why the ‘red franks’ today are still popular in those areas. They colored their hot dogs red to differentiate their product from the competition … Pa worked at Schonland Brothers, where he learned much and planned for the day when he could start his own company … [I]n 1927, the year I was born, my parents founded Jordan’s Ready-To-Eat-Meats … In 1935 a major benchmark was reached when Pa purchased Schonland Brothers, his former employers … [T]he red hot dogs that so many people associate with Jordan’s are only one of our many products. As I mentioned before this was a kind of trademark for Schonland Brothers which was continued by Jordan’s after the purchase. In fact, it was Jordan’s who introduced the red franks to Aroostook County in the mid-1930s. The ingredients of the red frank are identical to those in our uncolored franks, but demand for the red frank is still traditional in many parts of the state.” [Jordan, 1993: 8, 10, 12, 13, 14]

The tradition of Maine’s red hot dogs has relocated since Chet Jordan’s address. Jordan’s Meats had bought C.H. Rice Co. in Bangor back in 1962. [Jordan 1993: 19] The Iowa Beef Co. subsequently purchased Jordan’s in 2001, which Tyson Foods then bought in 2003. Tyson then closed Jordan’s Augusta plant, where Rice’s red frankforts were made, in 2004. Later that year, the Rice family bought its name back from Tyson Foods and formed a partnership with Bangor sausagemaker W.A. Bean to begin making the Rice version of the red hot dog again. [Associated Press, 2004] In 2008 Kayem Foods of Chelsea, Massachusetts, announced they had purchased the Jordan’s Meats brand from Tyson Foods, along with six other local brands. [Kayem Foods, 2008] Tyson Foods had closed the Jordan’s Meats plant in Portland in 2005, which then burned on May 6, 2010. [Hoey, 2010] As of the time of this writing, W.A. Bean is still producing both their own and the C.H. Rice versions of Maine’s red hot dog in Bangor and is the only in-state manufacturer of the product. [Gagnon, 2012]

Frankfurt or New England Rolls

Hot dog buns next to Frankfurt Rolls at a Hannaford store in Maine. A “Frankfurt Roll” or “Frankfurter Roll” in New England and New York state is a top-split bun with flat sides that’s either buttered and grilled for use with New England hot dogs or seafood rolls, or steamed for use with coney dogs or frankfurters.

The traditional story of the Frankfurt or Frankfurter Roll used with Maine’s red hot dogs, as well as other preparations such as the Lobster Roll, is that sometime in the 1940s the Howard Johnson’s chain commissioned the J.J. Nissen baking company in Maine to create the roll for their fried clam sandwich. USA Pan® is also credited with developing the pan to create the roll. [Tucker, 2020]

The same style of bun is marketed in other parts of the country as a “coney” or “New England” roll. These are two brands available at a grocery store in Ohio. Wonder also offers a New England roll, available in various parts of the U.S.

Images provided by Food Historian Dr. Eleanor Bartlett of the University of Cambridge (@historyeats) indicated that evidence from Europe strongly suggests this really wasn’t a new development in any manner. The soft French roll, a light bread dough rolled out thinly then rolled into a tight cylinder before baking closely to one another, had been included in paintings as far back as the early 17th century. Visually almost identical to the roll developed by J.J. Nissen, it appears the only real differences are the addition of the top slice for insertion of the meat or seafood components, and the buttering and grilling of the sides of the rolls.

Left: Kitchen interior with a maid preparing meat and gentlemen drinking at a table beyond, by Jeremias van Winghe, 1613; Right: The Baker, Job Adriaenszoon Berckheyde, 1681.

A Frankfurt Roll as made by Country Kitchen, a commercial bakery in Lewiston, Maine.

Another issue with the traditional story of the New England roll pan is that, according to their web site, USA Pan® wasn’t founded until 2009. It’s a subsidiary of Bundy Baking Solutions, makers of factory baking pans and equipment. According to the USA Pan site Bundy Baking was founded in 1959, while the Bundy Baking Solutions site indicates 1964. Both of these facts discredit the supposed J.J. Nissen/USA Pan® connection in the 1940s described in [Tucker, 2020].

Other sources provide a seemingly more accurate history. In the Boston Globe Holly Jennings wrote “J. J. Nissen knew it would need a special pan for an automated production line. Industrial baking-pan manufacturer Ekco Products designed the first commercial pan for the bakery.” [Jennings, 2013] As Ekco had been founded as a manufacturer of non-electric houseware in 1888, this origin makes more sense. Ekco became a subsidiary of American Home Products in 1965. Bundy Baking Solutions founder Russell T. Bundy had begun his career at Ekco. Chicago Metallic had acquired Ekco in 1996, and Bundy Baking Solutions then acquired Chicago Metallic in 2005.

Some of the verbal history in [Jennings, 2013] appears to be a bit of marketing though. One of the interviewees stated “The hinged and side-sliced hamburger and hot dog buns used in most regions of the country today … did not come until later, sometime in the mid-’50s, with the invention of the mechanical side slicer.” This is disproven in U.S. Patent 2,059,108, “Frankfurter Roll Slitting Machine”,assigned to Laurence G. Hobbs and Knut J. Cederholm of Fitchburg, Massachussetts, on October 27, 1936.

Download (PDF, 499KB)

To bake the buns properly, USA Pan® offers a retail ten-bun New England Hot Dog Bun pan for use with any recipe for the buns, which is the pan I’ll use here. Why 10, and not 8? I’m guessing that’s because the end buns only have one side that’s flat and grillable. This pan shows up in the catalog for Bundy subsidiary Chicago Metallic.

For retail New England bun production, Bundy Solutions’ industrial New England pan, with capacities such as six 12-bun loaves, is considered a custom baking pan having various available options and configurations for industrial bakery use. It’s from the Hot Dog, Sub & Hoagie Bun Pan collection from their American Pan subsidiary.

One issue with this pan is that it’s not very tall, at 1-5/16″, so buns made with it are really too short to fill very well. The technique described in many recipes for it mention inverting a baking sheet over the pan, weighted by a piece of cast iron. As the buns cook upside down, this ensures the bottoms of the buns are flat. Photos then show the bottoms of the buns even with the top of the pan.

The real trick is to find a recipe that rises enough to become taller than the New England Hot Dog Bun pan. I needed to find one that gives the buns an extra 3/4″ to grow, to just over 2″ tall.

Many commercial Frankfurt or New England rolls are made of a simple bread dough. The recipe USA® Pan offers for use with their pan includes milk, butter, and potato flakes. It also describes the dough as being stretched and placed in the pan as a whole before the second proofing instead of the rolls being individually formed. This is clearly how the commercial buns are made that are available in New England groceries, and would be the most authentic. Unlike many other recipes it calls for instant yeast vs. active yeast.

To get the buttery sweetness of a good New England classic, you could use one of the better recipes for a Parker House Roll, such as this recipe from the James Beard Foundation. Originally developed at Boston’s venerable Parker House Hotel, the roll is not only still served there, its recipe has been printed in countless cookbooks since Fannie Farmer’s first Boston Cooking School Cook Book in 1896.

Other available recipes available include butter, and either milk or milk flakes, minus the potato flakes, making for a fluffier roll with less density. A version from The Flavor Blender illustrates forming the buns individually. King Arthur Flour has posted this recipe for a version which also includes potato flour or flakes. In the King Arthur version the buns are formed in the pan as a flat layer, which is then cut into the individual rolls after baking.

The following recipe is a modification of the recipe for the pan itself from USA Pan®. Modifications include using more water to get a fluffier bun that can grow more, and not using a sheet pan and weight to flatten the dough as it bakes as suggested in other recipes for the pan. This allows the buns to grow past the hight of the pan, giving them more room for fillings.

Notes On This Recipe

• The New England Hot Dog Bun Pan is available from USA Pan® at: https://www.usapan.com/new-england-hot-dog-bun-pan-1190ne
• The New England Hot Dog Bun Pan from USA Pan® has a silicone coating that doesn’t respond well to non-stick sprays or metal utensils. It’s best not to use either with it. However, it it makes you feel better, greasing and flouring the pan is alright, although it’s not necessary.
• In some ovens, particularly smaller convection ovens, the tops of the buns won’t be quite browned. About 9 minutes into the bake time, remove the buns from the oven and flip them out to check the tops. If they haven’t started browning, set the baked bun mass right-side-up on a baking sheet and bake the remaining 9 minutes until the tops are golden brown.

Bibliography

• Associated Press, October 27, 2004. A dog-meet-dog world – Longtime Bangor competitors combine their frankfurter forces. seacoastonline.com.
• Gagnon, Dawn, August 17, 2012. Bangor company’s “red snapper” hot dogs are a beloved taste of Maine. Bangor, Maine: Bangor Daily News.
• Hoey, Dennis, May 7, 2010. Fire tears through Jordan’s Meats site. Portland, Maine: Portland Press Herald.
• Jennings, Holly, July 2, 2013. New England-style bun, from HoJo’s to homemade: Boston Globe.
• Jordan, Joseph, 1993. Jordan’s Meats: A Thriving Business in its Third Generation-Built Primarily on ‘Hot Dogs’. Portland, Maine: The Newcomen Society Of The United States.
• Kayem Foods, May 20, 2008. Kayem Foods Acquires Jordan’s, Deutschmacher, Kirschner and Essem Brands From Tyson Foods. Chelsea, Massachusetts: Kayem Foods Press Release.
• Tucker, Aimee, May 6, 2015. The New England Hot Dog Bun. Dublin, New Hampshire: New England Today

The release of the Ruger-made Marlin 1895 SBL .45-70 Gov’t rifle last year was very well received, and Marlin is following that up with the 1895 Trapper. It has the same chambering, satin stainless finish and gray laminate stock as the SBL, but the Trapper version has a shorter, 16.1-inch barrel. Its barrel is cold hammer forged out of 410 stainless steel, has a 1:20 twist and is threaded 11/16×24 for mounting a suppressor or other muzzle device.

With its shorter barrel and reduced overall length of 34.25 inches, the Trapper is ideal for anyone who wants to add a can to their rifle without making the gun so long that it becomes unwieldy or for those who hunt in tight cover and want the shorter barrel because it’s handier. Weight is 7.1 pounds, and the gun’s balance point is centered at the loading port, which gives it that “between the hands” feel shooters love.

The triggerguard plate, receiver and lever are all precision CNC machined from 416 stainless steel forgings. An oversized lever loop makes it easy to cycle quickly and reliably. The bolt features a side-mounted extractor on the bolt body and a spring-loaded ejector that rests in a recess within the receiver. There’s also a crossbolt safety located on the upper rear portion of the receiver. The hammer has both half- and full-cock positions.

1895 Trapper

The Trapper model features Skinner front and rear sights. The rear sight is an aperture design, and the aperture unscrews so it can be replaced with larger or smaller aperture sizes. The front blade sight is sturdy and sports a bright white stripe along the spine that is easy to see in low light. There’s also a dovetail in the barrel that allows you to add a buckhorn-style rear sight if you’d like. Unlike the SBL, there is no Picatinny scope rail.

The laminate stock on the Trapper has a darker color scheme than that found on the Ruger/Marlin 1895 SBL rifles. A dense recoil pad about 3/4 inch thick with a spacer is perfectly mated with the contour of the stock. The iconic Marlin horse and rider logo is laser engraved onto the grip, and there’s an “RP” proof mark on the left side of the barrel. “Mayodan, North Carolina,” Marlin’s new base of operations, is stamped on the barrel as well, and serial numbers for these rifles begin with the prefix “RM” for Ruger Marlin.

Even the trademark bullseye design that has graced Marlin rifles for decades can be seen on this gun, albeit with a red center in homage to the Ruger brand. “The 1895 Trapper is an excellent early addition to our new Marlin line,” said Mickey Wilson, vice president of operations at Ruger’s Mayodan, North Carolina, facility. “It’s easy to handle, sports a great sight system and is powerful enough to take any North American large game animal, as well as offering protection to guides and fisherman from potentially dangerous animals.”

At just over six pounds, the trigger isn’t light, but it’s clean and sufficient for an open-sighted lever gun. I managed to punch groups right at an inch from 50 yards. With the Trapper’s shorter barrel, the Federal load ran about 100 fps slower than spec velocity, and the Hornady load was almost 200 fps slower.

Field Function

The Marlin Trapper functioned flawlessly with one exception. I ran dry during one drill, and in my haste to reload, I didn’t fully seat the last cartridge in the magazine tube. When I attempted to cycle the action the bolt locked in the open position with the lever frozen, which is a telltale sign of this error. This common failure with Marlin rifles is entirely preventable as long as the shooter has the presence of mind to fully seat each round. Recoil from the Trapper is stiff, especially from the bench. Off the bench the rifle isn’t unpleasant at all, and with the gun held firmly and fired from a solid stance, it’s possible to deliver fast follow-up shots.

At a suggested retail price of $1,349, the 1895 Trapper is $50 cheaper than the SBL. That’s higher than Henry’s All-Weather Lever Action .45-70, but the Henry holds one less round; has a longer, unthreaded barrel; and lacks the Trapper’s impressive wood and Skinner sights. Is there still a place for big-bore lever guns in the hunting arena? Absolutely. For hogs, deer, elk, moose or anything that has the potential to bite back, there are few better options, and that’s because nothing handles like a lever-action carbine.

There’s also no doubt that these guns will be gobbled up by Marlin collectors, but you don’t need a dogmatic reason to buy one. These American-made lever actions are simply fun to shoot. That’s reason enough to own one.

Marlin 1895 Trapper Specs

• Type: Centerfire, lever action
• Caliber: .45-70 Gov’t
• Capacity: 5 rds.
• Barrel: 16.1 in., stainless; 1:20-in. twist, threaded 11/16×24
• Overall Length: 34.25 in.
• Weight: 7 lbs., 1 oz.
• Stock: Gray, laminate
• Finish: Satin stainless
• Trigger: 6 lbs., 1 oz.
• Sights: Skinner adjustable aperture rear, Skinner blade front
• MSRP: $1,349
• Manufacturer: Marlin Firearms

When the jungle, forest, campsite, or even your yard bites at you…you need to bite back!

With a proper machete, you can do more than bite.

Machetes are a tool I’ve loved since childhood. As a kid, my dad owned a landscaping business, and for us, summers were spent laying sod.

These cutting tools are vital for getting a yard of laid sod to look just right.

As a kid, I loved wielding the machete.

It felt like some kind of sword! Chopping corners of sod was slaying a dragon. I was Aragorn and the sod was Uruk Hai.

Machetes followed me into the Marine Corps, where they were a common sight among infantrymen.

Over the years, I’ve swung many a machete, blistered hands, killed trees, and learned a thing or two.

In my yard, I’m constantly fighting back a brutal dictatorship coming from the dense Florida jungle that surrounds me.

All that said, let’s talk more about machetes. I’ve gathered some of the best models currently on the market so you can grab your very own.

I’ll even talk about how to go about picking the perfect one for you.

So, let’s get to it!

How To Pick a Machete

I won’t rattle on and on about the intricacies of choosing the absolute perfect machete. But I do have some tips to ensure you get your money’s worth.

Blade: Blade length will vary depending on your task. Long machetes provide a longer reach and more weight behind your swing. They tend to be best for thick brush but are heavier and take up more room.

Compact machetes are way easier to carry while hiking, patrolling, or doing primitive camping. They still provide a slasher versus a regular blade but expect to do more work.

I like machetes with round tips that do better when smashing through thick vegetation — Pangas, bolos, and Latin-style blades.

Steel: Carbon steel blades provide a balance of cost-effectiveness and functional material. They get nice and sharp and hold an edge for quite some time.

Carbon steel can be vulnerable to rust, so keep the blade oiled or make sure it has a corrosion-resistant finish.

Handle: I like a good soft handle that provides a good grip. Most machete handles are functional but rarely super comfortable.

You’ll get blisters fast but handles like the Gerber Gator’s help a fair bit. Ultimately, you want a rounded handle that absorbs some shock.

7 Best Machetes

1. Gerber Gator Jr.

If you deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in the 2009 to 2011 push, you likely carried or knew someone who carried the Gerber Gator Jr.

This machete became a quick favorite for Marines deploying.

Why? Well, it was at the PX and super affordable. Not to mention, this deployment was more primitive than previous ones to the urban areas of Iraq.

The Gerber Gator Jr. was also one helluva awesome machete.

I didn’t bring one, but several of my squadmates did. I now own one after using it overseas.

The Gerber Gator Jr. is the smaller variant of Gator and packs a hefty blade covered with a reverse sawback that doubles its utility.

I use my Gerber Gator Jr. around the house almost every other weekend.

It’s a short and handy tool that cuts through brush both thick and thin. The sawback allows you to chop hefty branches and wood.

I’ve taken down several small trees without much difficulty.

The handle is a soft material called Gator Grip Overmold.

It’s extremely comfortable and helps you resist hot spots, blisters, and sore hands after a day of chopping.

The compact size also makes it relatively easy to carry and pack in and out of the great outdoors.

2. Outdoor Edge Brush Demon

The Brush Demon is an appropriate name for this machete.

Oddly enough, it satisfies my sword fantasy with its similarities to the Greek Kopis sword.

The Kopis was the sword of the citizen soldier and was a very simple chopping and stabbing tool. Average Greek citizens could wield it necessary.

Experienced Kopis designer Jerry Hossom created the Brush Demon, and it’s good.

The blade feels heavy and features a slight inward curve. So, this thing is an eater of weeds, palmettos, and saplings – chewing through without remorse.

At 13.5-inch, the lightweight blade is efficient and reduces the effort you need to finish the job.

The Brush Demon grants you a good deal of control, making the machete a very precise tool.

It can strip limbs of leaves and scratch away bark to form a stake or spear. On the flip side, you can carve a path through a jungle easily with the tool.

The handle is a Zytel material that’s ‘skin’ molded.

It’s soft and makes for an easy and comfortable grip. No gloves are required, even for the softest of hands.

It also ensures you can control your whacks with a single hand without worrying about a loose grip.

3. ESEE Knives EXPAT Libertariat Machete

If you want a super compact and simple machete, I got you, fam.

The Libertariat just wants to end brush and weeds. It’s also the most compact machete on this list — a hair bigger than a KA-BAR.

Its blade and handle shape make it more of a chopper than a knife.

Made in El Salvador, those fine folks know a thing or two about chopping through jungles.

The Condor blade style makes it easy to use, even though the blade is a mere 9-inches long.

The wood handles and high carbon blade aren’t fancy, but both are proven well for long-term use.

I use the Libertariat almost weekly for chopping the little branches, saplings, and annoying fast-growing weeds from the edge of the property.

It’s so small and light that it rides shotgun on the lawnmower with me.

For the more adventurous type, it offers a blade that takes up minimal space and offers lots of chopping potential.

A short blade means you’ll expend more effort to chop through the jungle, but you’ll expend less carrying it everywhere.

It’s perfect for adventures that you don’t plan to need a machete, but just might.

Have you tried The Libertariat? Give it a rating below!

4. Cold Steel Latin D Guard Machete

Latin America might as well be considered the heartland for machetes.

The simple designs coming from South America have long been awesome designs made to last. And they’re often affordable.

Cold Steel adapted the Latin design and the famed D guard handguard.

The D guard is a fully enclosed handguard that works well with the Latin’s 24-inch blade. (There’s also an 18-inch variant available.)

Users can swing the machete broadly to create a path without worrying about losing their grip. The machete won’t fly into the woods if your hand tires or grip slips.

Not only is this great for tool retainment, but also safety’s sake. A wild machete is never a good thing.

This is a true jungle machete that would serve Rambo well in the jungles of Vietnam. The traditional machete-style blade allows it to whack through both thick and thin materials.

A carbon steel blade means it will take abuse and resist chipping and breaking after years of heavy use.

The propylene handle is quite comfortable, helping your hands stay soft and free from blisters.

Old, calloused hands will still appreciate the handle design because blisters suck for everyone.

5. Ontario Knife Company Military Machete

Do you just want to keep things simple? I hear you.

The Ontario Knife Military Machete is incredibly simple, providing you the same machete issued to military troops.

I saw this exact machete in the armory, and eventually, it was issued to our team 2-point man.

These things took all the abuse a 19-year-old PFC can toss at them…and shrugged it off.

The design isn’t fancy, but it doesn’t need to be to work. The big 18-inch blade design rips through brush and most thin wood.

It’s a true whacker that leads with a big belly and thick blade.

Between this model and the Gerber Gator Jr., we chopped down several small trees outside of our patrol base to open fields of fire and gather firewood to keep warm as Afghan winter set in.

When used properly, there isn’t much that stands up to the Ontario Military Machete.

The biggest downside is the hard plastic handles. They don’t offer a great grip and can cause quick hot spots and blisters. Wield with gloves for best results.

It’s a classic design that doesn’t pack any fancy features in, but the price tag reflects the simplicity.

6. Fiskars Machete Axe

What’s better than just a machete? How about a machete ax!

The Fiskars Machete Axe looks like a State of Decay 2 melee weapon but is actually a functional but unique machete variant.

It’s part panga and part ax, and all kick ass.

The Fiskars uses a traditional machete blade for about three-quarters of its length; at the tip, it grows into an ax.

That hefty end gives you so serious swinging power. It will make short work of brush and slightly longer work of saplings and small trees.

Got a thick limb in your way? Well, you won’t after a few swings of the machete ax.

Need to kill some roots? You won’t have a problem making sure they’re dead with the Fiskars.

The rear blade of the ax portion has a saw tooth back for a little sawing in tight quarters. It can’t split wood as well as a regular ax, but it’s much easier to wield when broad slashes are required.

Be warned, it’s a little off-balanced, and it will carry your swing through.

Always make sure you have a clean cutting area because it might be tough to stop the Fiskars mid-swing.

7. Gerber Double Down

My wildcard selection is the Gerber Double Down, and boy, is it a wildcard.

Have you ever seen a machete that’s also a butterfly knife? Well, you have now.

This compact machete allows you to easily trim the size of the machete in half by folding the blade into the handle.

It’s small but made for machete-like tasks. Gerber’s Double Down chops, debarks wood, and will make hanging a tree stand, clearing a path, and trimming away the weeds quite simple.

At the same time, it can fold in half and fit into your back pocket.

Gerber over-engineered the hell out of this thing. They made sure it wouldn’t be fragile for the chopping and cutting.

This massive butterfly knife features a stability guard and overstrike guard.

A four-lock system engages in three different positions to provide the highest amount of safety possible.

It’s not perfect. Not a fan of stainless steel for machete blades, but it is a high carbon stainless steel. So, it’s not that bad.

Second, the $100+ price tag makes it a tough pill to swallow. However, it’s damn sure a cool choice.

Conclusion

Whether you’re heading into the jungle or taming your backyard, machetes are useful tools to have around.

I’ve tried to narrow the selection down to models I know are worth your attention and time. Hopefully, you’ll find something that works for you!

What do you think about the machetes above? Let us know in the comments below. For more cutting content, check out our Knives Category.

If you are looking for a unique and thrilling hunting adventure, stalking javelina is unlike anything you have experienced before. These small but ferocious animals have developed a devoted fan base of hunters who dedicate themselves to the observation and hunting of these southwestern mammals.

The key to a successful javelina hunt is knowing as much about your prey as possible. Here is our comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the javelina.

What Is a Javelina?

The javelina resembles a wild pig and is one of three species of peccary, which is defined as a social, pig-like animal.

They have short, coarse, brindled hair that lightens around the neck, giving the appearance of a collar. They have a snout and small eyes, similar to a pig, and they walk on their front two digits. However, unlike a pig or wild boar whose tusks are curved, the javelina’s tusks are straight, having evolved for crushing fibrous material, seeds, and roots.

Habitat

There are only three species of peccaries in the world. The javelina’s Latin name is Tayassu tajacu, and its cousins are the white-lipped peccary, which lives in Southern Mexico to Northern South America, and the Chacoan peccary that lives in Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay.

If you’re wondering where to shoot for javelina, they thrive in rocky, arid climes like the desert of the southwestern United States in parts of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. They prefer areas such as the saguaro desert that offer ample supplies of prickly pears and mesquite. You can also find herds close to desert watering holes and other permanent water sources.

As they are unable to cool down through evaporation like other animals, they tend to remain in shady areas such as under cliffs and caves during the hottest parts of the day and venture out to forage when it is cooler.

Habits

Rapacious omnivores, javelinas will eat almost anything they come across. Their primary food sources are desert plants, but, on occasion, they’ll eat grubs, birds’ eggs, bugs, and reptiles like lizards.

Their favorite plants to munch on include sotol, prickly pear, agave, some types of tubers, and acorns from the scrub oak.

Although they aren’t great for eating, the larger predators like black bears, mountain lions, and jaguars all feast on javelinas from time to time. Bobcat, coyote, and other smaller predators avoid the javelina, perhaps because of the threat of its razor-sharp tusks and unshakeable fighting acumen.

Javelinas are incredibly social animals and stay in groups almost all of the time. This means, when you’re out hunting javelinas, if you see one, there are sure to be more somewhere close by.

Physiology

Javelinas resemble pigs in that they have stout bodies, a snout, bristly hair, and a jutting underbite on their bullet-shaped heads. Although they closely resemble the family of pig and boar, they are very distant cousins, as the genetic split between these species occurred over 30 million years ago.

Mature javelinas weigh between 40 and 60 pounds, and they sport brownish-gray bristles with a highlighted, prominent collar between their shoulders.

They have scent glands, as one of their keenest senses is their sense of smell. This particular physiological detail can help you find javelina, as the musky smell they use to communicate and mark their territories is quite pungent and leaves a trail.

They have incredibly poor eyesight compared to their super sense of smell. Because of this, javelinas often feed at dusk in the thick brush where they don’t need good vision to find sustenance.

How to Find a Javelina

Some clues indicating the presence of prey while you’re hunting javelinas are signs of feeding. You’ll see chewed-up prickly pear paddles, shredded agave and sotol, and cow patties that have been rooted. You’ll also see turned-up ground where the javelinas have snuffled through the first layer of undergrowth.

Under rocky overhangs, in tucked-away places in the shade and out of the desert sun, you’ll often find evidence of javelinas bedding down. You can also sniff them out, as their powerful musk glands, located at both their hind ends and heads, exude a pungent, telltale olfactory clue.

How to Stalk a Javelina

The primary tactic of javelina hunting is to spot them, and then stalk them. Glassing, or using your binoculars to spot your prey, should be your focus when hunting javelinas. Set up optics from a high vantage point for the best view and for effective concealment. They camouflage well against the backdrop of the desert, and it may take a while for you to spot a group.

Once you find a group of javelinas, your main tactic should be to play to the wind. Javelinas rely on their sense of smell, so you have to mask your own scent as much as possible so they don’t get wind of your presence.

Once you get within 50 yards of the javelinas, take into account their hearing and eyesight. Although not the strongest of their senses, javelinas can still see and hear you. If you are spotted, freeze for a few minutes. Javelinas have very short attention spans. They will usually forget about you if you are completely still for a while.

How to Bag a Javelina

Javelinas respond with vigor to a distress call of another javelina. Being social animals, they react with a speed and ferocity unmatched by other big game. A call blown outside of 75 yards might not elicit much of a response—but call within range of the bristly creatures, and they’ll come running.

When you’re lining up a shot at individual javelina, remember that their vitals are small, so you must be very accurate to make an ethical shot. Sometimes, a bullet will go through one javelina and hit the one behind it as well.

These aren’t huge animals, but they are some of the fiercest prey animals many hunters have come up against. Match your weapon to your prey and come in close to set up the perfect shot.

Once you’ve bagged javelina, take the time to remove its scent glands, both fore and aft. If left untouched, the scent glands can flavor the meat and hide, leaving a foul taste and odor.

If you want to eat your trophy, you will have to dress the animal in the field to get rid of those scent glands. Once this is accomplished, treat the javelina much like a boar in butchering and cooking techniques. Slow roasted javelina or a javelina stew both make the most of this fierce desert animal.

Although on the smaller side, javelinas are tough little beasts that offer a lot of challenges when spotting them, stalking them, and bagging them. They have a tenacious spirit and razor-sharp tusks that make any hunters’ heart rate speed up.

Scopes and sights will instantly improve your performance on the range or while hunting small game.

In low light conditions, it is not easy to acquire your target with stock iron sights.

A scope or sight will provide you a visible reticle in all lighting conditions that not only allows you to engage your target quickly but also increases your accuracy.

Note: You need to be at least 18 years of age to purchase any of the below air rifles, as well as adhere to the local laws governing their usage.

What to Consider When Buying an Air Rifle/Pistol Scope

Scopes and sights are performance enhancing accessories that are a must for long distance shooting.

To ensure you get the right accessory, you need to know the different sights, how much magnification you need, and the scope’s durability.

Type of Sight

You can mount red dot, reflex, and scopes to many air weapons if you have the required mounting hardware.

Even if your air pistol or rifle does not include the mounting platform you need, you can purchase adapters in most cases.

If you need an adapter, check out this site: www.AirgunDepot.com

Magnification

Reflex and red dot sights have 1x magnification which is perfect for short to medium distance shooting.

Scopes can offer 16x magnification, which is perfect for medium to long distance shooting.

Durability

While you are at the range or hunting small game, the weather may take a change for the worse.

When this happens, you will want your gear to be waterproof, shockproof, and durable.

Below are the 14 best air rifle and pistol scopes.

#1. UTG Hunter IR 3-9×40 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 3x – 9x
• Weight: 21.1 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $124.99

The UTG Hunter IR 3-9×40 AO was created with airgunners in mind to provide you a crystal clear image of your target with its emerald-coated optics.

The scope is excellent for precision shooting at various ranges with 3x to 9x magnification.

An excellent feature of the UTG Hunter is that the .25 MOA reticle’s color can change to ensure that you do not lose your target.

It comes with 36 reticle colors to choose from for a customized targeting experience.

The bright mil-dot reticle is perfect for all lighting conditions, including cloudy days.

It can withstand the elements with its durable design that is fog proof, shockproof, and rainproof.

With everything included to attach it to your weapon, the UTG Hunter IR 3-9×40 AO is perfect for any long distance shooter.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#2. UTG SWAT IR 3-12×44 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 3x – 12x
• Weight: 23.2 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $154.99

The UTG SWAT IR 3-12×44 AO provides shooters with up to 12x magnification making it one of the best long range air rifles scopes available.

Much like the Hunter IR 3-9×40, it includes an adjustable 36 color mil-dot reticle for better target acquisition in various settings.

To give you the best zero, it comes with .25″ windage and elevation adjustments and 10 yards to infinity parallax modifications.

With an emerald coating on the lens, you will have superior visibility for target practice or small game hunting.

It includes everything you need to attach to your air rifle to include Weaver/Picatinny rings and 2 hex wrenches.

It is a bargain at $154.99 and will assist you with providing tight shot groups.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#3. UTG CQB BugBuster IR 3-9×32 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 3x – 9x
• Weight: 13.9 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $117.99

The UTG CQB BugBuster IR 3-9×32 AO will provide you with a sharp picture that pops.

UTG secured the top three spots on this list for their value, function, and durability.

The BugBuster is like the Hunter IR 3-9×40 AO but with a few key differences.

It is more lightweight without sacrificing durability and is designed for close quarters combat.

The scope has parallax adjustments starting at 3 yards instead of 5 for a closer zero.

A downside is that the BugBuster does not have a 36-color adjustable reticle and instead has either a red or a green reticle option.

This is not a game changer for most people, but it may be worth spending the extra $7 if that is important to you.

Like the other UTG scopes already mentioned, it has an outstanding limited lifetime warranty.

It is also shockproof, fog proof, and rainproof.

You can not go wrong with this or the other UTG scopes on this list.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#4. CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight

• Reticle: 1 MOA
• Magnification: 1x
• Weight: 5.5 oz.
• Water Resistant: Not Specified
• Price: $39.99

The CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight is perfect for any close range shooting with its 1x magnification and 1 MOA reticle.

With unlimited eye relief, you will get pinpoint accuracy no matter how far your head is from the reflex sight.

You have the option of 4 different reticles that are available in either green or red.

It comes with an integrated weaver mount making it perfect for air pistols or rifles.

Weighing in at only 5.5 oz. it is super lightweight and compact at only 3.25″ long.

CenterPoint backs their sight with a limited lifetime warranty.

The CenterPoint Optics 32mm Open Reflex Sight is perfect for speed drills and quick target acquisition.

If you are looking for a solid performer at a great price, this may be the sight for you.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#5. BSA 30mm Red Dot Sight

• Reticle: 5 MOA
• Magnification: 1x
• Weight: 5 oz.
• Water Resistant: Not Specified
• Price: $33.59

The BSA 30mm Red Dot Sight is a high-performance red dot sight at an excellent price.

Built with a Picatinny/Weaver base, it can quickly attach to your favorite air rifle or pistol.

The 30mm tube provides you an extensive field of view, and the 5 MOA reticle makes it easy to acquire your target.

You can stay on the move with unlimited eye relief while taking down targets since you do not need to worry about your head placement.

To provide precise shots every time, the sight comes with .5″ windage and elevation adjustments.

If you want a red dot sight for close quarters shooting, the BSA 30mm Red Dot Sight is an excellent option at a great price.

It’s definitely the best air rifle scope for the money, all things considered.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#6. Mantis 3-9×32 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 3x – 9x
• Weight: 16 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $71.99

The Mantis 3-9×32 AO is a heavy-duty scope that is constructed out of high-grade aluminum.

The aluminum body also makes it super lightweight coming in at only 1 lb.

With durability in mind, the Mantis is fog proof, waterproof, shockproof, and it comes with a limited 1-year warranty.

It has a .25″ mil-dot reticle that provides a solid point of aim.

You can magnify your target up to 9x for precise shooting.

It also has a parallax adjustment of 5 yards to infinity to provide a clear picture no matter how far your target is from you.

The durable design, powerful magnification, and visibility make the Mantis 3-9×32 AO an excellent choice.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#7. Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×50 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 4x – 12x
• Weight: 21.2 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $209.99

The Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×50 AO is the second most expensive scope on this list but do not let the price tag scare you because it is packed full of features.

It is a great all-around scope with a magnification of up to 12x, making it perfect for long-distance shooting.

To take full advantage of the range of this scope, you will need a high-FPS air rifle or pistol.

It includes a 1″ mono-tube chassis that is 13.7″ long and weighs only 21.2 oz.

The .25″ MOA red or green reticle can easily sight in on your target with 10 yards to infinity parallax adjustment.

The reticle has 5 green and 5 red illumination settings for clear visibility in low light settings.

It is designed to last and is shockproof, fog proof, and waterproof.

The Hawke Vantage IR 4-12×50 AO is perfect for those who want a long-range scope with a 50mm objective lens.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#8. UTG 1×39 CQB Target Dot Sight

• Reticle: .5 MOA
• Magnification: 1x
• Weight: 13.1 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $79.99

The UTG 1×39 CQB Target Dot Sight has a .5 MOA green or red T-Dot reticle, providing faster target acquisition.

It has flexible eye relief and has a wide 85′ field of view with a 39mm objective lens.

With a 42mm center height, it has co-witnessing for rear and front sights.

It is quick and easy to attach and detach the UTG 1×39 CQB Target Dot Sight to your air rifle or pistol with the patented quick-detach lever lock.

The scope also includes an integrated sunshade, which prevents glare and optimizes the amount of light that enters the sight.

It is barely noticeable on your weapon with a weight of under a pound, making it comfortable for all-day shooting.

You get a 2-year limited warranty and the quality that you expect from UTG.

If you are looking for a solid dot sight for your air pistol or rifle, the UTG 1×39 CQB Target Dot Sight is a top pick.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#9. CenterPoint TAG Series IR 4-16×40 AO

• Reticle: Not Specified
• Magnification: 4x – 16x
• Weight: 17.44 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $99.99

The CenterPoint TAG Series IR 4-16×40 AO provides some serious magnification of up to 16x, making it perfect for long distance shooting.

With a 40mm objective lens, you can get clear visibility of your target at extreme distances.

The reticle has a TAG style that can alternate between red and green.

It has a 10 yds to infinity AO parallax setting to provide a sharp image no matter how far your target is.

You get a 6.3′ to 25′ field of view at 100 yards for better situational awareness.

It includes a limited lifetime warranty and a CR2032 to power the scope.

If you are looking for a 16x scope on a budget, the CenterPoint TAG Series IR 4-16×40 AO is your best option.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#10. UTG Hunter IR 4-16×40 AO

• Reticle: .25 MOA
• Magnification: 4x – 16x
• Weight: 22.3 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $142.99

Think of the UTG Hunter IR 4-16×40 AO as the older brother to the Hunter IR 3-9×40.

It has all the same outstanding features, but it has a magnification up to 16x, making it a solid choice for long distance shooting.

It has a 36-color illumination-enhanced .25″ mil-dot reticle making it perfect for any lighting conditions.

It is 14.57″ long and weighs only 22.3 oz.

The scope comes with everything you need including a flip-open lens caps, 1 CR2032 battery, 2 hex wrenches, and high Weaver/Picatinny rings.

With the included limited lifetime warranty, this scope’s value can not be beaten.

If you are on a tight budget, go with the CenterPoint, but go with UTG Hunter if you have a large budget.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#11. Hatsan 1×30 Red Dot Sight

• Reticle: .5 MOA
• Magnification: 1x
• Weight: Not Specified
• Water Resistant: Not Specified
• Price: $29.99

Hatsan’s 1×30 Red Dot Sight is the lowest priced sight/scope on this list, but that does not mean they cheaply made it.

It has the standard 1x magnification found on most red dot sights and has a 30mm objective lens for an excellent field of view.

With unlimited eye relief, you can quickly acquire and engage your target.

It mounts to a dovetail platform and has a quick-detach standard dovetail base.

If you want a budget red dot sight that will give you quick, precise shooting in low light environments, look no further than Hatsan’s 1×30 Red Dot Sight.

It also includes a limited 1-year warranty.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#12. Hawke 30 SF Compact IR 4-16×44 Airmax, Ill. AMX

• Reticle: AMX Reticle
• Magnification: 4x – 16x
• Weight: 21.9 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $389.99

At $389.99, the Hawke 30 SF Compact IR 4-16×44 Airmax, Ill. AMX is the most expensive scope on this list.

This premium scope has excellent features that set it apart from the other scopes on this list and would be the top pick if it was not for the price point.

It has a glass-etched red-illuminated AMX reticle, and the lens has 16 coated layers for better clarity.

The reticle has 6 levels of brightness for superior low light targeting.

This scope has a wide-angle lens for better downrange situational awareness.

The scope can take on the elements since it is waterproof, shockproof, and nitrogen purged.

With a side focus parallax correction, you will have excellent visibility from 10 yards to infinity.

While it’s a bit expensive, it’s easily considered as one of the best air rifle scopes available for sale right now.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#13. Hatsan Optima 3-9×40 AO

• Reticle: Not Specified
• Magnification: 3x – 9x
• Weight: 19 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $79.99

Hatsan’s Optima 3-9×40 AO provides solid performance with a magnification up to 9x, giving you precise aim.

With the parallax being adjustable, you will have crystal clear visibility from 10 yards to infinity.

The scope includes a mil-dot reticle and has a 40mm objective lens, and is easily considered one of the best air rifle scopes on the market.

Not only is the scope waterproof, but it is also shockproof, fog proof, nitrogen-filled, and has a fully coated optical lens.

This competitively priced 9x air rifle scope also includes a 1-year warranty.

Hatsan’s Optima 3-9×40 AO may be right for you if you want a balance of function and value.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

#14. Hawke Micro Reflex Dot 3 MOA

• Reticle: 3 MOA
• Magnification: 1x
• Weight: 2.5 oz.
• Water Resistant: Yes
• Price: $129.99

Hawke constructed the Micro Reflex out of aluminum for added durability.

The aluminum is lightweight, and the sight only weighs 2.5 oz.

For additional clarity and protection, the lens is fully multi-coated with 25 layers of protection.

The 3 MOA reticle provides quick target acquisition with unlimited eye relief.

The reflex sight comes with an 8-stage digital brightness control for precise shooting in low light environments.

A unique feature of this sight is that if movement is not detected for 5 minutes, the sight will automatically turn off to save battery life.

Hawke designed it with an integrated weaver mount for easy installation on your favorite air pistol or rifle.

It also has a 2-year limited warranty.

It is available at Airgun Depot. Here’s where to buy it: www.AirgunDepot.com

See Also

14 Best Red Dot Sights for Pistols, ARs, and Shotguns

12 Best Reflex Sights

10 Best Military Grade Binoculars

References / Resources

Air Gun Laws in the US

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During my 20 years in the outdoor industry, I’ve witnessed a pile of incredible arrow builds. Most of those builds have come from arrow-mastermind Easton. From arrows designed for speed to carbon shafts wrapped in a penetration-boosting metal jacket, the hits keep on coming.

A tried-and-true staple in the lineup and a quiver-filler for throngs of archers, the Axis ranks as one of the finest shafts ever created. Why? Side of filling thousands of freezers and making massive taxidermy bills, this arrow is a do-all. The 5MM build is micro, which means the shaft can buck the wind and find its mark even at extended distances. Plus, the micro-profile focuses kinetic energy into the frontal area, which creates less friction and ensures maximum penetration. Then there’s the fact the arrow is offered in seven spine sizes, meaning most any archer can pair the Axis with their stick-and-string setup. Bottom line: The Axis is a durable, accurate and dependable big-game wrecker that countless bowhunters put their trust in. It just doesn’t get any better.

Or does it?

Enter the Axis 4MM Long Range. I could hear the excitement in Easton’s Gary Conrnum’s voice as he gave me the 411 on this new-for-2021 arrow. Cornum is an arrow guru, and when he gets pumped about a product, people should take note.

“It’s our best Axis build to date,” he said. “Now Axis lovers can get a super micro-diameter shaft with a front-of-center boosting aluminum point outsert that has standard 8-32 threads. This arrow is as accurate as they come and delivers incredible downrange penetration.”

True to Form

The literature I’d read and my conversation with Cornum had my mind buzzing, and when my Axis 4MM Long Range bare shafts arrived, I couldn’t wait to put them through the paces. The 100-percent carbon cut with ease, and the aluminum point half-out outserts glued in without hassle. The outsert measures just a tick over an inch, so if you’re cutting your arrows, be sure and compensate for this. If you shoot a 29-inch arrow, you’ll want to cut your 4MM shafts at 28-inches if you plan to use the included aluminum half-out outsert.

This was my first Axis build that didn’t require the use of Easton’s chamfering stone, HIT Epoxy, and HIT Insert Tool. Instead, I used 91 Isopropyl Alcohol to clean the inside of the shafts, applied insert glue to my aluminum outserts, and twisted them into the shaft to distribute the glue evenly to the inner shaft wall. The process is super simple and saves a lot of time. The fletching process was a breeze as well. I opted not to use wraps, and my AAE Hybrid 23 vanes grabbed the carbon wonderfully.

With my 4MM Long Range soldiers ready to fly, I first conducted a speed test. Tipping the scale at 405.5 grains, my 28 ¾-inch 4MM Axis Long Range arrows powered by Hoyt’s Ventum 33 set at 68 pounds of draw weight and a 29-inch draw length propelled shafts at an average speed of 302 fps. Plenty fast, and my kinetic energy rating was an impressive 82-foot pounds. The ACU-Carbon build blended with the aluminum half-out outsert system ups velocity and helps the arrow deliver more energy downrange. Plus, each shaft passed the spin test and popped perfect bullet holes through paper after a bit of rest adjusting. More impressive was the accuracy factor. From distances between 20 and 100 yards, my four-fletched arrows found the mark.

For a week, I shot the Axis 4MM Long Range in crosswinds, tailwinds and headwinds, and there’s no question the shaft’s ultra-micro diameter build resists side-to-side wind drift. I also shot fixed and mechanical broadheads out to 100 yards. My fixed-blade heads hit a tad right of the mark starting at 50 yards, which is normal, but even though they were a tad right, each fixed-blade shaft grouped. The SEVR 2.0 mechanical-tipped shafts hit right with my field points out to 100 yards. The 4MM MicroLite Nocks are tough; attach brilliantly to the string and leave it cleanly. After the tuning process, I detected zero nock travel. Warning! Shooting groups with these shafts, especially with fixed-blade broadheads, is not advised. The Axis 4MM Long Range is without a doubt the most accurate arrow I’ve ever fired, and unless you have unlimited funds and lots of time to build arrows, I would suggest shooting individual spots.

Satisfied with the accuracy of the arrow, I moved on to some penetration tests. I received the arrows late in the spring, and with turkey tags punched and no bear hunts on the horizon, I used a new Block foam target to conduct a few penetration tests. With a calculated F.O.C. of precisely 12.6 percent, my Axis 4MM Long Range arrows drove deeper into foam when shot head-to-head against my standard 5MM Axis arrows. It’s important to note that bowhunters should shoot for an F.O.C. between 11 and 18 percent. I have no doubt the optimized F.O.C. build blended with the arrows speed and micro-diameter construction will lead to big-game pass-throughs, even at extended distances.

Those who favor the HIT system blended with Deep Six technology can separately purchase 4MM Deep Six Steel HIT Inserts (20 grains). If you’re looking to up arrow weight and increase your F.O.C. but want to stay with the outsert system, 4MM Titanium Half-Out Inserts (55 grains) can also be had for a few more greenbacks. The Axis 4MM Long Range is available in spine sizes of 250, 300, 340 and 400, and straightness ratings of +/- .003” and +/- .001” can be purchased. The Axis 4MM Long Range can be purchased by the dozen (bare) or half-dozen (fletched).

If you’re looking for a do-all hunting arrow that will perform at extended distances on medium-sized and large big-game animals like elk, moose and grizzly, the Easton Axis 4MM should line your quiver come fall.

The longstanding practice of conducting warrantless searches on private property by officers with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency is unconstitutional, a three judge panel hearing a case in Benton County Circuit Court ruled Tuesday.

The ruling invalidates Tennessee law that TWRA has relied on to conduct warrantless searches and surveillance on private land in order to fulfill its mission of enforcing the state’s hunting, fishing and wildlife laws.

It’s an authority that is not explicitly extended to any other state or local law enforcement. The law, the judges wrote, gives rise to an “intolerable risk of abusive searches” and violates the Tennessee Constitution’s property protections. It is “unconstitutional, unlawful and unenforceable,” their ruling said.

An attorney representing Hunter Hollingsworth and Terry Rainwaters, two Benton County men who filed suit against the TWRA over warrantless searches on their lands, called the ruling a “momentous thing.”

“This is a decision that’s going to have a really huge impact on private landowners in Tennessee,” said Joshua Windham, an attorney for the Institute for Justice, a libertarian leaning law firm.

Windham said the ruling may have implications beyond Tennessee. The Tennessee Constitution’s property protection language, cited by the judges, is echoed in the constitutions of 16 other states, potentially leading to legal challenges of similar wildlife agency enforcement practices elsewhere. TWRA’s practice of patrolling private property without an owner’s consent or a warrant is not uncommon.

A spokesperson for TWRA on Wednesday did not immediately respond to questions about the ruling, or whether state officials plan to appeal.

State wildlife officers patrol private lands across the state year-round without giving owners notice, obtaining consent or appearing before a judge to make a case for a warrant, court records said.

TWRA officers sometimes investigate turkey-, dove- and deer-hunting offenses by crouching in bushes and secretly taping hunters — hiding within the line of fire in some instances cited in the lawsuit. The agency keeps no records of when or how often officers enter private property. TWRA officers do not need a supervisors’ permission before entering private land. There are no agency rule limiting how long officers may spend searching private property.

TWRA attorneys have argued that state wildlife officers must have the flexibility to enter private lands to do their jobs. The agency’s mission is to protect wildlife and enforce hunting, fishing and boating laws. The vast majority of hunting in Tennessee takes place on private property and wildlife aren’t confined to public lands, they noted.

TWRA also cited a well-established U.S. Supreme Court precedent, known as the “open fields doctrine,” which says that property owners have no “reasonable expectation of privacy” on private property deemed to be an open field — property outside the immediate vicinity of an owner’s home or yard, such as a field of crops well beyond a farmer’s homestead.

But the three judge panel in Benton County concluded that the Tennessee Constitution gives property owners more protection. Article I, Section 7 of the Tennessee Constitution provides a “broader guarantee of security for an individual’s real property than its federal counterpart,” they wrote.

Tennessee’s Constitution protects all “property, real or person, actually possessed or occupied,” the court noted. Under Tennessee Supreme Court precedent, land possessed or occupied extends beyond a homestead. Only “wild or waste lands” that are not used, farmed, fenced or otherwise utilized are excluded from those protections, the state Supreme Court has found.

The judges also concluded that the statute giving TWRA the right to enter private land amounted to a “general warrant,” giving officials wide latitude to conduct searches. “General warrants are dangerous to liberty and ought not to be granted,” the court ruled.

Hollingsworth, a Benton County railroad worker, said Wednesday he felt vindicated after years of challenging multiple TWRA officers forays onto his property, where they secretly hid behind bushes to videotape Hollingsworth, his girlfriend and friends while they hunted and socialized. They patrolled his land and surveilled his movements.

“I think it’ll be a lot more relaxing to be on my property and you won’t have to be paranoid that they’re looking at you all the time,” Hollingsworth said. “I think it’s fantastic that other people will get to enjoy their property without worrying if they’re being watched.”

Rainwaters similarly expressed “great relief to have the court recognize that searching my property without permission and without a warrant was unconstitutional.”

“It’s even better to hear that the court doesn’t believe anyone else in Tennessee should have their rights violated in the same way,” he said. “I’m going to sleep a little better tonight knowing that state officials have to respect my property rights.”

The case was heard under a new state law requiring a panel of three judges, one from each division of the state, to hear challenges to state law. Judge Donald Parish, Chancellor Jerri Bryant and Judge Russel Parkes presided over the case.

Parish, who concurred with the majority of the decision, filed a dissenting opinion in which he argued the court should have gone further.

The Institute for Justice had requested an injunction barring TWRA from entering private property — which was rejected by the panel because they had already concluded Tennessee’s law was invalid.

But Parish noted that TWRA lawyers argued that their authority to conduct warrantless searches also rests in the Tennessee Constitution’s recognition of a personal right to hunt or fish, subject to reasonable regulation.

Parish also cited a TWRA officer’s conversation with Hollingsworth in the court’s record. Hollingsworth told an officer who showed up on his property that he wasn’t invited.

“When you bought your hunting license, you invited me,” the officer told Hollingsworth.

Absent an injunction, Parish wrote, “I believe an ‘intolerable risk’ of improper searches by the TWRA persists.”

I’m gonna be honest, I never put too much thought into arrows when I first started bowhunting. I just snagged up what the pro shop recommended and called it good.

The more time I spent behind the bow, though, the more I realized how important hunting arrow selection was. It’s another rabbit hole and a quite daunting one at that. That can make picking the right arrow for you not so straightforward. And the right arrow plays a huge part in bowhunting.

In light of that, we’ve put together our take on what arrows need to be on your radar for the upcoming 2024 fall hunting season.

Below is a list of my favorite arrows for a range of applications and budgets. This selection is evolving so be sure to check for updates, as new arrows will be added as they’re tested. At the end of our list, be sure to check out the comparison chart and buyer’s guide.

The Best Hunting Arrows of 2024

• Best Overall Hunting Arrow: VAP TKO
• Best Budget Hunting Arrow: Gold Tip Hunter
• Best Arrow for Deer Hunting: Easton Long Range
• Best Arrow for Elk Hunting: Day Six
• Best Traditional Arrow: Black Eagle

Hunting Arrow Comparison Chart

Why You Should Trust Us

Bowhunting often reminds us that good gear is extremely important. Quality arrows can be the difference between success and an unfilled tag. We’ve used dozens of different arrows, and only the best earn our full trust.

Whether we’re hiking above treeline looking for mule deer, slinking down into the bottom of a canyon to call for black bears, or just simply spending time behind the bow at the range — arrows matter. Our lead tester Josh Kirchner has been bowhunting for ten years. Needless to say, he’s spent an incalculable amount of time fiddling with arrows to find out what works and what doesn’t.

When coming up with this list, Kirchner considered his own experience and that of those around him. He also examined market demand at a variety of price points.

At the end of the day, as bowhunters, we need ultimate confidence in our arrows. This list will cater to a wide range of hunters and cover every situation in the mountains, prairies, and hardwoods.

Buying Guide: How to Choose a Hunting Arrow

The hunting arrows listed above are wide in variety. There’s a little something for everyone. One of the major differences between some of these arrows is the arrow weight. Arrow shafts are measured in GPI (grains per inch). And some arrows have a higher GPI than others. This leads me to one of the most highly debated topics in bowhunting.

Should you use a heavy arrow or a light arrow?

We’re gonna suss that out to provide the tools you need for picking the right arrow weight for you and your hunting style.

Heavy Hunting Arrows Equal Momentum

In recent years, there’s a push for using heavier arrows for hunting. When I say heavy, I’m referring to arrows that weigh in around 500+ grains. There is a great argument for using a heavier arrow.

Weight equals more momentum, which is basically the force an arrow will retain going through an animal. More momentum means more pass-throughs and fewer chances of arrow flight being altered too much from ribs etc. This is not to be confused with kinetic energy, which is the amount of energy an arrow has on impact.

Heavier arrows are also more wind-resistant than lighter arrows. And along with that, they absorb more energy on the shot, which translates into a quieter system.

The Downside of Heavy Arrows

While there are no doubt benefits to using a heavier arrow, there are also some drawbacks. The first is that heavier arrows are just slower. This gives arrow flight a much steeper trajectory. So, there is much less room for error when it comes to judging yardage.

This could spell trouble when that elk is a few yards farther than what you thought. For the multi-pin sight users, that also means larger gaps between pins, which makes pin gapping (aiming between pins for odd yardages) much more finicky. The result is less precision accuracy when pin gapping.

Light Hunting Arrows Equal Speed

On the flip side of things, slimming down arrow weight is becoming shinier by the day. Less arrow weight means more arrow speed, which translates into a flatter trajectory. So, it isn’t as critical to be pinpoint accurate with yardage estimates.

In hunting situations, this can be the difference between notching a tag and following a fruitless blood trail. Along with that, you’ll also be able to stretch the tape on your sight much farther. Even if one doesn’t plan on shooting an animal at a great distance, practicing far shots hones shooting skills and makes shorter shots seem even shorter.

And when those shots land at odd yardages, therein lies another benefit, particularly for multi-pin sight users. Your pin gapping will be much tighter in the sight housing, which means precision will increase when doing something like aiming between the 30 and 40 pins for a 35-yard shot.

Cons of Lightweight Hunting Arrows

Less arrow weight does come at a cost, though. The first is giving up that momentum that we talked about. Lighter arrows don’t retain as much energy through an animal as heavier ones do. This could result in fewer pass-through shots and a higher likelihood that an arrow is thrown off course by, say a bone.

And on that note, a lighter arrow also doesn’t buck the wind as well. This is a potentially problematic situation in windy hunting conditions.

Then there is the shot. The moment of truth. When that arrow releases, it won’t nearly be as quiet as a heavier setup.

Lastly, durability seems to drop off the lighter an arrow is. So, if you miss or hit a bone, the chances of your arrow still being intact is slim.

Middle of the Road: A Hunting Arrow That’s Just Right

While you hold the wheel in terms of what arrow weight you’ll end up shooting, our opinion is this. Shoot a quality midweight type of arrow in relation to your setup overall.

I say this because a heavy/light arrow for one person might be a real heavy/light arrow for another based on their draw weight, draw length, etc.

By doing so, you’ll avoid many of the cons that come from the extremes on each end. It’s a best-of-all-worlds solution. There is one more thing, though, that is the most important to keep in mind.

Arrow Flight Is Everything

To cut to the chase, good arrow flight is way more critical than trying to shoot a heavy arrow or a light arrow.

There’s nothing wrong with having somewhat of a goal arrow weight in mind, but in the end, you need to shoot the arrow that is flying the best out of your setup. If your goal is 500 grains, but a 450-grain arrow is shooting lights out for you, it’d probably be wise to eat the 50 grains and go for accuracy and consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Dicks Sporting Goods offers a generous return policy for their customers, however, there are a number of things to be aware of which we’ll cover below.

The company was established by Richard Dick Stack in 1948. Dicks Sports return policy is very generous in its terms and conditions, which is very convenient for its users.

We’ll discuss the terms outlined in their return policy, including refunds, exchanges and how to return your goods.

Dicks Sporting Goods Returns

Customers can return their goods within 60 days of purchase, either by mail or in-store, according to the company’s terms in the Dicks Sporting Goods return policy. Dicks Sporting Good return policy allows you to return unworn, unwashed, undamaged, or defective merchandise purchased online or in-store.

Moreover, the company has extended its return period to 90 days for both online and in-store orders from the previous 60 days. This has also extended for Calia and Field, Golf Galaxy and Stream.

Most products are returnable within 30 days at Dick’s Sporting Goods Warehouse stores, which has a separate policy in place.

How To return Products at Dick’s Sporting Goods

Dicks returns gives you two options to return its product – by mail or by visiting any of the Dicks stores. We have provided the details of both the return policies below

Dicks Sporting store return policy

Before returning your products, make sure that it is unworn, unwashed, and undamaged.

Here are some easy steps to go through, if one wants to return the merchandise by paying a visit to the nearest store:

• You can locate your nearest store by visiting this link.
• When you know your local store to return your product, pack your product in the original packing.
• Accompany your product with an original slip.
• Store personnel will help you in processing your return.
• Your refund will be immediately processed to your original form of payment.

You can also contact your local store operator to know more.

return policy for online Via mail

Are you too lazy to walk-in to your nearest store, Dicks provides you the option to return the items by mailing it to them.

The company will issue a refund for the purchase price of the item within 60 days of return.

To return items by mail, you need to go through the following steps:

• To start your return with Dick’s Sporting, visit the website.
• Go to the return page by visiting this link.
• Fill in the order details and Zip code and proceed as per given instructions, and you will get the return label.
• Click on the “Find order” tab to go to your order details.
• The return label has a return department address (place of returning), and the packing slip contains the specific instructions to return.
• Attest the return label to your package.
• Now you can schedule a pickup or drop off at the carrier of your choice or UPS drop-off location.

Shipping and handling charges are not refundable.

Exchange Policy

Dicks Sporting exchange policy for the company is the same as its return policy, you need to return your items within 90 days to get the product exchanged.

Follow the below steps to get your product returned:

• Start your return by visiting the website and follow the instructions as given in the ‘return by mail’ process.
• Place the new order for the replacement.

See Also: Wayfair Return Policy

Refund Policy

Returns are generally directed to the original mode of payment by Dicks, make sure that the items are in original condition.

• If you return your item in the store, it can take up to 14 business days for the refund to be processed to your original form of payment. If it’s been more than 14 days, you should first reach out to your bank or aggregator.

• If you have returned your item by online mode, it usually takes 2—3 weeks from DICK’S Sporting Goods to receive your return for a credit to be issued. Dicks will issue Refunds to the original form of payment for the purchase price of the item, including sales tax

Exclusions

They have a different policy for different products like dicks shoe return policy, dicks bike return policy, dicks sporting goods kayak return policy, dicks sporting goods return policy for online stuff, etc.

Dicks sporting goods return policy is pretty favorable for its customers; it requires you to return the items before 90 days to get a full refund. It takes 14 days for processing of your return:

If you wish to return without receipt, you can do so without an original sales receipt or pack slip, but the product must be returned using a valid ID, and you will receive a store credit for the lowest selling price.

FAQs

Can I return Items To Dicks Without a Receipt?

Returning goods to Dicks Sporting Goods without a receipt is possible, however, you may only be eligible for store credit and are required to present your ID. It may be possible to receive an email copy of your receipt. All decisions are final and at the discretion of management.

Conclusion

Do you know that Dick’s sporting entered into women’s athletics in 2015 and into team sports in 2016?

Dick’s Sporting Goods offer quality products, but then also you end up getting a damaged item… Hard luck! Don’t worry and file a return request immediately.

Don’t forget to check these out – GameStop, and Nike Return Policy.

For further queries about Dicks Sporting Goods return policy, I’d suggest you comment down below and our experts are more than happy to answer.

Related: Kroger Return Policy