Skeet shooting and trap shooting are two popular forms of clay target shooting. Both involve shooting at clay pigeons (also known as clay targets or skeet) that are launched into the air at various angles and speeds. While the two sports are similar in many ways, some key differences set them apart.
In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the differences between skeet shooting and trap shooting, and help you decide which sport is right for you.
Skeet shooting, also known as “skeet”, is a shotgun shooting sport in which clay pigeons are launched from two target machines known as “high” and “low” houses that are placed at different heights. When firing at the targets, the shooter stands in a variety of shooting positions around a semi-circular range. During each round, the shooter must complete a total of 25 shots.
Types of Skeet Shooting
The two most common types of skeet shooting are- American and International Skeet Shooting:
1) American Skeet Shooting
American skeet shooting is the most popular type of skeet shooting in the United States. It is governed by the National Skeet Shooting Association (NSSA) and the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA). In American skeet, the targets are launched from “high” and “low” houses on a semi-circular range with eight shooting stations.
2) International Skeet Shooting
This form of skeet shooting is governed by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) and is shot on a rectangular range with eight stations. Like American skeet shooting, the targets are launched from a “high” and “low” house but from a different angle.
What Is Trap Shooting?
Credit: Minnesota Monthly
Trap shooting, also known as “trap”, is a shotgun shooting sport in which clay pigeons are launched from a single machine or a “trap” house located at the far end of the range. In this sport, trap shooters have five shooting stations and are required to take five shots at each station before moving on, making it a total of 25 shots.
Types of Trap Shooting
Similar to skeet shooting, there are different varieties of trap shooting, including:
1) American Trap Shooting
American trap shooting is practiced in the majority of American shooting ranges. It is typically done using a single launcher positioned in a small trap house which launches clay targets away from the shooter, who is stationed at one of the five available stations along the range.
2) Olympic Trap or Bunker Trap Shooting
In Olympic trap shooting, also known as “bunker trap,” a line of 16 machines is used to launch targets, rather than just one. The targets are launched at different predetermined angles, providing a challenging variation of the traditional trap shooting game.
3) Double Trap Shooting
Double trap shooting is a variation of the traditional trap shooting game in which two targets are launched simultaneously from the trap house. These targets usually follow a set part and shooters are required to shoot at them one at a time.
4) Wobble Trap Shooting
Like double trap, wobble trap is a variation of traditional trap shooting, where the target’s flight path is much more unpredictable. This is achieved by an oscillation mechanism that makes the trap move up and down as well as side to side
Skeet Shooting vs Trap Shooting: What’s the Difference?
Credit: Envato Elements/ vlad_star
Now that you have a general idea of skeet and trap shooting, let’s take a closer look at the distinctions between them so that you can make an informed decision and choose the one that you prefer the most:
1) The Movement of the Targets
In skeet, the targets are launched from two different houses at varying angles, making it a more challenging sport. In trap shooting, the targets are launched from a single house at a consistent angle, making it a bit easier.
2) The Rules
The rules of skeet and trap shooting are similar, but there are some key differences. In skeet shooting, the shooter must hit targets from both the high and low houses to complete a round. In trap shooting, the shooter must hit a certain number of targets to move on to the next round.
3) The Equipment
Both skeet and trap clay pigeon shooting require hunting guns and a supply of clay pigeons. However, the type of hunting gun and ammunition used can vary depending on the sport.
Skeet shooting typically requires a shotgun with a short barrel and tight choke, as the targets are launched at a closer range. Trap shooting, on the other hand, typically requires trap guns with long barrels and open chokes, as the targets are launched at a farther range.
If you’re interested in practicing skeet and trap shooting in your own backyard, consider investing in a clay pigeon thrower like the one from Do-All Outdoors. Alternatively, if you prefer to throw your own clay targets, the White Flyer Blackout Skeet and Trap Clay Targets are an excellent option.
Which One Should You Choose?
When it comes to trap vs skeet shooting, the final choice depends on your personal preference.
Skeet shooting is considered to be more challenging and requires more skill, as the targets are launched from two different houses at varying angles. It’s a sport that requires quick reflexes and the ability to adapt to different angles and speeds.
On the other hand, trap shooting is considered to be more beginner-friendly, as the targets are launched from a single house at a consistent angle and speed. This sport requires a steady hand and good aim, but it’s less demanding than skeet shooting in terms of movement and adaptation to different angles.
If you’re looking for a challenging sport that will test your reflexes and adaptability, skeet shooting may be the right choice for you. But if you’re looking for a sport that is a bit more relaxed and easier to pick up, trap shooting may be a better fit.
Summary
Skeet and trap shooting are two popular clay target shooting sports that share the goal of hitting as many clay pigeons as possible, but differ in terms of range layout, target movement, and equipment used. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Looking to improve your shooting skills? Look no further than EasyShot shooting targets. Made from durable materials, our targets are excellent for honing your shot and improving your aim. Order yours today and take your shooting to the next level!
“Rain or Shine: Unveiling the Habits of Whitetail Deer During Rainfall” – Discover whether these majestic creatures retreat or persist in their movements when faced with precipitation, as we delve into the intriguing behavior of whitetail deer amidst rainy conditions.
Hunting Whitetail in the Rain: Strategies for Success
Hunting whitetail in the rain can be a challenging but rewarding experience if you employ the right strategies. One key strategy is to remember that rain does not significantly affect deer behavior. While their activity patterns may change slightly, deer still need to feed and will resume their normal routine once the rain subsides. Therefore, if you are willing to endure a little rain, you have a good chance of catching a big buck on your trail camera as soon as the rain stops.
Another important strategy is to take advantage of the increased daytime movement of mature bucks after the rain quits. Rainfall is one of the few factors that can increase deer activity during daylight hours, giving hunters a prime opportunity to spot and target these elusive creatures. Additionally, fewer hunters are likely to be out in rainy conditions, further reducing competition and increasing your chances of success.
The wet leaves caused by rain can also work in your favor when hunting whitetail. The noise dampening effect of wetness and suppressed scent conditions due to wind give hunters an advantage over deer. Bucks may move more freely and less methodically due to the slippery terrain, making them more vulnerable to being spotted by alert hunters.
To hunt successfully in the rain, it is crucial to come prepared with proper rain gear and a waterproof blind or shelter. Staying dry while waiting for that monster buck is essential for comfort and focus. Additionally, anticipate a longer sit than usual since deer can move at any given time during rainfall. Be patient, bring snacks, and mentally prepare yourself for an all-day hunt.
Tracking a wounded deer in rainy conditions requires extra attention and care. Rain can wash away blood trails, making it harder to follow the wounded animal’s path. It is crucial to ensure clean shots and pay close attention to every movement after pulling the trigger. Depending on the shot placement and circumstances, you may choose between waiting for the buck to fall or immediately tracking it.
In conclusion, hunting whitetail in the rain can be a promising and rewarding experience if you approach it with the right strategies. Don’t be discouraged by rainy forecasts; instead, prepare ahead of time, utilize hunting apps like HuntWise to plan your stands, and take advantage of this less popular time for hunting. With the right gear, patience, and tracking techniques, you can increase your chances of landing that big buck even in wet weather conditions.
Do Whitetail Deer Move During Rainy Weather? The Truth Revealed
When it comes to hunting whitetail deer, many hunters wonder if rain affects their movement. The truth is that rain does have an impact on hunters, but not so much on the deer themselves. While rain may alter the times when deer are normally active, they still need to feed and will resume their regular activities as soon as the rain stops.
Whitetail deer are always on the move, except in severe weather conditions such as heavy downpours and strong winds. They prefer to move when they can hear what is happening around them, which is why they tend to avoid heavy rain and wind. This means that if you can endure a little rain, you have a good chance of catching a big buck on your trail camera right after the rain subsides.
One important thing to note is that mature bucks tend to be more active during daylight hours right after the rain stops. Rainfall increases daytime movement for deer, which gives hunters an advantage. Additionally, fewer hunters take advantage of hunting in rainy conditions, giving bucks another reason to move more freely.
The wet leaves caused by rain also affect how bucks move. They tend to veer away from stopping frequently or reacting to noises due to the slippery ground. This allows them to move more freely and unpredictably. As a hunter, this combination of reduced noise and suppressed scent conditions due to wind gives you an advantage over the deer.
To hunt successfully in rainy weather, it’s crucial to be prepared with appropriate gear such as good rain gear and a waterproof blind. Staying dry while waiting for that monster buck is essential for your comfort and focus. Make sure you have everything you need to stay warm and dry during your hunt.
Anticipate a longer sit than usual when hunting in the rain because deer can move at any given time during rainfall. Sometimes there might be short breaks in the rain, and then it starts again unexpectedly. Challenge yourself to sit all day long, bring snacks, and be ready for action. Patience is key because deer will move whenever there’s a brief break in the rain.
When it comes to tracking a deer after a successful shot in rainy weather, it’s important to ensure a clean shot and pay attention to every little movement after pulling the trigger. Rain can wash away blood, so you need to be extra careful during tracking. You have two options: either wait for the buck to fall or start tracking immediately. Choose the best strategy based on your situation.
With these tips in mind, hunting in rainy weather can be just as promising as a crisp fall morning. Don’t let rain discourage you or make you give up on your hunt. Prepare ahead of time, take advantage of this less popular hunting time, and use tools like the HuntWise app to plan your stands and find the most ideal conditions. Rainy weather can offer unique opportunities for landing that big buck you’ve been dreaming of.
Rainy Day Hunting: How to Take Advantage of Whitetail Movement
When it comes to hunting whitetail deer in the rain, many hunters may feel discouraged or opt to stay home. However, with the right strategies and preparation, hunting in the rain can actually be quite advantageous. Here are some tips to help you make the most of rainy day hunting:
1. Understand Deer Behavior in Rainy Conditions
While rain may affect hunters’ spirits, it doesn’t really impact deer behavior significantly. Deer still need to feed and carry on with their daily activities even during light rain. They may alter their activity patterns slightly, but they will continue moving as long as the weather is not severe. Keep in mind that heavy wind or downpouring rain might deter deer from being active.
2. Take Advantage of Post-Rain Activity
Mature bucks tend to start moving right after the rain stops, often during daylight hours. Rain increases daytime movement for deer, making it an opportune time for hunters to be in the field. Since many hunters avoid hunting in the rain, there will be fewer people out competing for deer sightings.
3. Utilize Stealth and Scent Suppression
Wet conditions provide an advantage for hunters due to reduced noise caused by wet leaves and suppressed scent carried away by wind and rain. Move quietly and take advantage of these conditions by using scent control methods such as scent eliminators or playing the wind effectively.
4. Be Prepared with Proper Gear
Before heading out for a rainy hunt, make sure you have appropriate rain gear that will keep you dry while waiting for your target buck. Being prepared with waterproof clothing and a waterproof blind will ensure you can withstand the elements without getting soaked.
5. Be Patient and Plan for Longer Sits
Rain can be unpredictable, with periods of heavy rain followed by brief pauses. To increase your chances of success, be prepared for longer sits in the field and bring snacks and necessities to make yourself comfortable throughout the day. Remember that deer will move whenever there is a break in the rain, so patience is key.
6. Track Effectively After a Shot
When hunting in the rain, it’s crucial to pay close attention to your shot placement and track the deer effectively. Rain can wash away blood trails, making tracking more challenging. Make sure you have a clean shot and choose either to let the buck fall before tracking or immediately start tracking while paying attention to every movement.
By following these strategies and being well-prepared for rainy day hunting, you can take advantage of whitetail movement during less popular hunting conditions. Don’t let rain deter you from pursuing your hunting goals – embrace the challenge and use it to your advantage.
Maximizing Your Chances: Hunting Whitetail in Wet Conditions
Hunting whitetail deer in wet conditions can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With the right strategies and preparation, you can increase your chances of success even when it’s raining. Here are some tips to help you make the most of hunting in wet conditions:
1. Be Prepared with the Right Gear
Before heading out for a rainy hunt, make sure you have the appropriate gear to keep yourself dry and comfortable. Invest in good quality rain gear that is waterproof and will protect you from getting soaked. Additionally, consider using a waterproof blind or shelter to wait for that monster buck without getting wet.
2. Anticipate a Longer Sit
During rainy weather, deer can move at any given time as the rain may hold off for short periods before picking back up again. To maximize your chances of encountering deer, challenge yourself to sit all day long. Bring snacks, use the bathroom before heading to your stand or blind, and be prepared for unpredictable weather patterns.
3. Pay Attention to Tracking Techniques
When hunting in wet conditions, it’s important to pay extra attention to tracking techniques after making a shot. Rain can wash away blood trails, making it more challenging to track wounded deer. Ensure that your shot is clean and take note of every movement after pulling the trigger.
4. Choose the Best Tracking Strategy
After making a successful shot, you have two options for tracking in the rain: either give the buck some time to fall or immediately begin tracking. Assess the situation based on your shot placement and make an informed decision on which strategy is best for you.
5. Take Advantage of Less Popular Hunting Times
Many hunters may choose not to hunt during rainy weather, giving you an advantage. Whitetail deer will still be active and on the move, especially when the rain starts to subside. By being willing to endure a little rain, you increase your chances of encountering that big buck while others stay home due to the weather.
6. Utilize Technology for Planning
Make use of hunting apps like HuntWise to plan your hunting strategy in wet conditions. Plot your stands, compare which stand has the most ideal conditions for hunting in the rain, and make informed decisions based on weather patterns and deer movement predictions.
Remember, hunting in wet conditions can be just as promising as a clear fall morning if you are prepared and adaptable. Don’t let rain discourage you or cause you to call it quits. Instead, embrace the challenge and take advantage of this less popular time for hunting whitetail deer.
Whitetail Deer and Rain: Understanding Their Behavior and Patterns
When it comes to hunting whitetail deer in the rain, understanding their behavior and patterns can greatly increase your chances of success. While rain may put a damper on your spirits as a hunter, it doesn’t necessarily affect the deer in the same way. Deer still need to feed and go about their business even when it’s raining, with the exception of severe weather conditions like heavy downpours or strong winds. Therefore, if you’re willing to endure a little rain, you may have the opportunity to catch that big buck on your trail cam just as the rain begins to subside.
One important factor to consider is that mature bucks tend to move right after the rain stops, increasing daytime activity. This is a great advantage for hunters as rain is one of the few things that can boost deer movement during daylight hours. Additionally, fewer hunters are likely to take advantage of hunting in the rain, giving bucks another reason to move more freely. The wet leaves also cause bucks to move less methodically, veering away from stopping frequently or reacting to every noise they hear. This combination of reduced noise due to wetness and suppressed scent conditions due to wind gives hunters an advantage over the deer.
To successfully hunt whitetail deer in the rain, preparation is key. Make sure you have good rain gear and a waterproof blind that will keep you dry while waiting for your target buck. Being prepared before heading out for a rainy hunt ensures you stay warm and somewhat dry throughout your hunting expedition.
Another important aspect is being mentally prepared for an extended sit. During rainfall, deer can move at any given time as showers might come and go unpredictably. To maximize your chances of success, challenge yourself to sit all day long. Bring snacks with you, use bathroom facilities before heading out to your stand or blind, and get ready for potential action. Remember, rain is unpredictable, and deer will move whenever there’s a break in the weather. Patience is key, and sitting all day can greatly increase your chances of encountering a buck.
Once you’ve successfully landed a deer, tracking becomes crucial. Rain can wash away blood trails, making it challenging to track the animal. Ensure that your shot is clean and pay close attention to any movement after pulling the trigger. Depending on the situation, you may choose to let the buck fall before tracking or immediately begin tracking. These are two of the best options for tracking in rainy conditions.
In conclusion, hunting whitetail deer in the rain can be just as promising as hunting on a crisp fall morning. Don’t be discouraged or give up when you see rain in the forecast. Instead, prepare ahead of time with proper gear and take advantage of this less popular hunting time. Utilize tools like the HuntWise app to plot your stands and compare which one has the most ideal conditions for hunting in the rain. With these strategies in mind and a good understanding of deer behavior during rainfall, you’ll increase your chances of landing that big buck even when it’s wet outside.
Rain or Shine: Hunting Tips for Tracking Whitetail in Wet Weather
Tracking whitetail deer in wet weather can present unique challenges for hunters. However, with the right strategies and preparation, rain can actually provide an advantage for those willing to brave the elements. Here are some tips to help you track whitetail in wet weather:
1. Be Prepared with Proper Gear
Before heading out into the rain, make sure you have the appropriate gear to keep yourself dry and comfortable. Invest in good quality rain gear that is waterproof and breathable. Additionally, consider using a waterproof blind or tree stand cover to provide extra protection from the elements.
2. Anticipate Longer Sits
During rainy conditions, deer may move at any given time as the rain comes and goes. Be prepared for longer sits in your hunting spot, as deer may become active during periods of lighter rain or when it temporarily stops. Bring snacks and necessities to ensure you can stay in your hunting location without having to leave due to discomfort.
3. Pay Attention to Deer Behavior
Deer behavior may be altered during rainy weather, but they will still need to feed and go about their daily activities once the rain subsides. Keep in mind that mature bucks tend to move right after the rain quits, increasing daytime movement opportunities. Take advantage of this by positioning yourself strategically during these times.
4. Utilize Reduced Noise and Scent Conditions
Wet leaves dampen noise, making it harder for deer to detect your presence. Take advantage of this by moving more freely without worrying too much about noise disturbances scaring away deer. Additionally, rainy conditions often suppress scent, giving you an advantage when it comes to staying undetected by wary bucks.
5. Ensure Clean Shots
In wet weather, blood trails can be easily washed away, making tracking more challenging. To increase your chances of a successful track, focus on making clean shots and paying close attention to the deer’s movements after the shot. Take note of landmarks or other identifiable features to help you locate the downed deer.
6. Choose the Best Tracking Strategy
After making a shot, you have two main options for tracking in the rain: either wait for the deer to fall before beginning your track or immediately start tracking. Evaluate the circumstances and make a decision based on factors such as shot placement, distance traveled by the deer, and visibility in the rain.
By following these strategies and being prepared for wet weather conditions, hunting in the rain can prove to be just as successful as hunting on clear days. Don’t let rain deter you from pursuing your trophy buck – embrace the challenge and increase your chances of a successful hunt.
In conclusion, whitetail deer are known to move less during heavy rain due to reduced visibility and decreased hearing abilities. However, they may still be active in light rain or seek shelter until the weather improves. Their movement patterns may vary depending on local conditions and the individual deer’s behavior.
The 260 Remington and 270 Winchester are 2 cartridges that are only 10 calibers off from each other and are often used for the same tasks. So it would only make sense to compare the two to see which one is better.
Here is the short answer:
The 270 Winchester will have more energy and a flatter trajectory than the 260 Remington. However, the 260 Remington has less recoil and a better ballistic coefficient. Overall unless you are hunting big game animals like elk or moose, both cartridges will perform very similarly.
With the short answer out of the way, we can look in-depth at each cartridge, which cartridge is better for which situations, why one cartridge might be better overall, and the best applications for each cartridge.
The 270 Winchester is a 30-06 case that is necked down to a 27-caliber bullet. The 270 was first introduced in 1925 in the Winchester model 54 bolt action. After a not-so-successful launch, the 270 eventually would eventually gain popularity among big game hunters.
The 270 Winchester is most popular among big game hunters and is often considered one of the best calibers for animals like hogs, deer, elk, and caribou. The 270’s claim to fame is that it has high energy and a flat trajectory making it ideal for big game animals and mountain hunting.
The 270 Winchester at 500 yards with a 150-grain bullet, a 270 Winchester has 44-inches of drop and 1200 foot-pounds. Compared to the 30-06, the 270 has only 200 less foot pounds and 10 inches less drop so it is basically just a lighter recoiling, flatter shooting, and slightly less powerful 30-06.
The 260 Remington is a cartridge that is common for bench rest shooting and big game hunting. The 260 Remington was released in 1997 and is basically a 308 Winchester case that is necked down to a 26-caliber bullet.
The 260 Remington is a cartridge that is very popular among bench rest shooters and deer hunters. The 260 Remington has a high BC (ballistic coefficient), so it is great at not being affected by wind or gravity. Because of this high BC, the 260 Remington is good for long-range shooting and hunting.
The 260 Remington, with a 140-grain bullet at 500 yards, has just under 1000 foot-pounds and 48 inches of drop. When compared to the 270 the 260 Remington has 4 inches of more drop and 200-300 less foot-pounds.
Since we have looked closely at each caliber we can see which caliber is the best.
If you want a cartridge that is good for long-range shooting, you will want the 260 Remington. The 260 Remington has a better BC, nearly the same drop, and nearly the same wind drift as the 270, all with less recoil. Because of this, it makes the 260 Remington a better long-range cartridge.
If you need a big game cartridge, you will want the 270 Winchester. The 270 Winchester has more energy than the 260 Remington making it better for hunting big game such as elk or even moose.
For your standard deer hunting scenarios (shooting 200 yards across farm fields), then you will want the 260 Remington. The 260 Remington has plenty of energy to take down a deer, will do less damage to meat, and will have less recoil.
If you were to pick one cartridge for the best overall performance, you would want the 270 Winchester. The 270 is a more common cartridge and can be used for more scenarios than the 260 Remington. While there are very specific times you may want the 260 Remington, it is often a better choice to go with the 270.
In the early days of my spring turkey hunting career, the early morning gear assembly centered around making sure I had my shotgun, a box of shotshells and the right call. Or more accurately—since I’m a confirmed gear junkie—the right calls, since my vest was likely to contain several on any given morning. Yeah, I’m a marketer’s dream, which might explain why my vest was so heavy and my back ached so much after a day spent running and gunning in the North Texas woods.
But after a close encounter with a big old Texas rattlesnake one April morning, wearing the proper boots became a matter of pressing concern. As the years have gone by and I’ve encountered cold conditions, wet days and just wanting a little more comfort, my garage shelves now contain several turkey-hunting boot options. If you’re looking for the perfect boot for spring turkeys this year, here are several options to consider:
Upland bird hunters might recognize the Danner Sharptail lineup as a great option for hiking across the New England grouse woods, sharptail country in Montana, or South Dakota cornfields for autumn roosters. But the veteran footwear manufacturer also has a winning snake-proof boot that will work for turkey hunters in the spring. With a full-grain leather and 900 Denier nylon upper, this boot is tough on the outside, and with 360-degree Snake Guard protection, you don’t have to worry about rattlers in Texas, water moccasins in Florida, or copperheads in the Carolinas.
Snake protection and rugged durability are only a couple of this 17-inch boot’s features. Add in a removable OrthoLite Footbed, the famed Danner Sharptail Outsole and TERRA FORCE platform, a side zipper and lace-up front, and a 100-percent waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane, and this boot is as comfortable on the inside as it is heavy duty on the outside. And with other Sharptail boot options available, the entire lineup is great to consider for hunting spring turkeys and fall upland birds. danner.com | $330
Irish Setter MudTrek Boot
Irish Setter MudTrek Boot
No matter how wet and slippery the hunting conditions are in the spring turkey woods, the Irish Setter MudTrek boot will keep you climbing muddy hillsides, walking through shallow creek bottoms, and having dry socks and feet on a dew-soaked morning. Checking in as a 17-inch pull-on rubber hunting boot, this model features vulcanized rubber for waterproof construction, as well as a rubber mudder outsole that provides stability and traction in rough-and-tumble terrain thanks to an aggressive lug pattern. With unisex sizing that will work for men, women and youth, this boot also has a Mossy Oak Country DNA camo upper along with ScentBan scent control. And with easy-on-easy-off leg and ankle openings, this stylish and comfortable boot can work in the turkey woods, back at the cabin, or in a late October treestand as the whitetail rut approaches. irishsetterboots.com | $199
LaCrosse AeroHead Sport Boot
LaCrosse AeroHead Sport Boot
If you hunt in the swampy low country of South Carolina, need to cross a rain swollen creek in Tennessee, or have to negotiate some muddy terrain in Western Merriam’s country, a rubber boot might be a preferred option for spring hunts. The AeroHead Sport from LaCrosse is a game-changer in that department, turning to a shell made from extremely durable, lightweight and insulating polyurethane, the same material used to insulate refrigerators and freezers. That helps to keep hunters light on their feet in this 16-inch boot that checks in with a weight of just five pounds.
Hunters don’t have to worry about their socks getting wet either from pesky holes and boot punctures, since the AeroHead Sport features lightweight neoprene uppers and uses Brush Tuff material on the outside to stand up to unforgiving brush and briers. That results in another winner from LaCrosse, an abrasion-resistant boot (there’s also a shin guard for extra protection without adding bulk) that is lightweight, comfortable, durable and waterproof. It’s the complete package in a hunting boot when wet conditions exist. lacrossefootwear.com | $240
LaCrosse NWTF Grange Boot
LaCrosse NWTF Grange Boot
Dubbed the official boot of turkey season, LaCrosse has taken its famous Grange rubber boot and added Mossy Oak camouflage and a partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation to keep the spring woods filled with gobbles for many years to come. Using 100-percent waterproof rubber construction, this 18-inch boot has a nylon fabric lining to aid getting into and out of the boot, as well as a fiberglass shank, EVA footbed, adjustable top strap and Lacrosse’s revolutionary ankle fit.
With the NWTF logo adorning the outside, these stylish boots also support conservation since LaCrosse gives a portion of each sale back to the NWTF to support wild-turkey conservation efforts. That’s a win-win in the turkey woods. lacrossefootwear.com | $120
Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof Boot
Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof Boot
Not every turkey hunter needs or wants a rubber boot, or something tall and snake-proof. For those who like to hunt run-and-gun style by hiking through prickly pear flats in Texas, the rolling terrain of the Rocky Mountains, or the pine and oak forests back east, the Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof boot is a great choice for turkey hunting.
With Merrell’s ComfortBase footbed and midsole technology for superior shock absorption and cushion on rugged terrain, this eight-inch boot feels like a top-end hiking boot. Add in a full-grain waterproof leather upper, a waterproof membrane inside that keeps H2O at bay and still allows the foot to breathe, and this is a comfortable and dry boot all day long.
And with Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel to absorb shock and add stability, not to mention a slip and oil resistant durable rubber outsole, and this boot is comfortable and steady no matter how rugged the terrain you’re hiking through while trying to strike up a gobbling bird on a fine spring day. merrell.com | $175
Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Rubber Snake Boot
Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Rubber Snake Boot
Rocky is one of America’s leading footwear manufacturers for hunters and the Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Snake Boot is another winner from this longtime Ohio bootmaker. With 100-percent waterproof protection, vulcanized rubber construction, rubber outsole, and steel shank and removable footbed, this boot is tough in the woods where rainfall or other water encounters are a definite possibility.
And if there’s a chance you might see a venomous snake, this boot has you covered there, too, thanks to 16 inches worth of snake-proof protection.
Add in Rocky’s Briar & Thorn Guard, and you can walk through briars, brush, and cactus flats without any worries. And to top it all off, the boot comes in the stylish Realtree Edge camo pattern, so you’ll look good back at camp in the skinning shed, at the dinner table telling hunting stories, or around the campfire while celebrating another hard-won gobbler. rockyboots.com | $187
Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse Boot
Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse Boot
On some rare April mornings down South and across the East, it can be quite chilly and damp as frost coats the ground. Further north in New England, across the Great Lakes states, and out into Merriam’s country in the Rocky Mountains, freezing temps and even late-season snow can be the culprit, causing cold toes and damp feet. If you might need a warm-and-dry boot for such conditions, keep the eight-inch waterproof and insulated Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse boot in mind when it becomes available later this year. With Crazyhorse full-grain leather and 400 grams of waterproof insulation, your feet will stay protected, warm and dry even if April snow showers threaten May wildflowers.
Add in a composite shank, slip-resistant Vibram 1275 Olympia rubber outsole, Goodyear storm welt construction and removable Ultimate Shock Absorption inserts, this boot provides rugged protection, lots of traction, and keeps a hunter’s feet cushioned on the move. And with American-made construction, this boot scheduled to appear this year will be a winner for hunters in many types of terrain and hunting seasons. thorogoodusa.com
Twisted X Snake Boot
Twisted X Snake Boot
The Twisted X boot lineup is popular for many, featuring stylish construction and lots of features that hunters like in and out of the woods. This 17-inch snake boot in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo features a full-grain leather upper, leather pull-on tabs, waterproof lining, Viperguard technology snake protection, nylon/glass fiber shank, superior CellStretch cushioning in the forefoot and heel areas, compression-molded EVA midsole that actually has molasses integrated into it, and an oil- and slip-resistant molded rubber outsole. The boot also is environmentally friendly, coming with a 17-inch shaft made with an EcoTWX fabric blend that is made from an average of 13 recycled plastic bottles per pair of Twisted X boots. twistedx.com | $289.95
Baked buffalo fish is juicy and flaky with wonderfully crispy skin. Flavorful cajun-seasoned fish is stuffed with parsley and topped with a lemon garlic butter sauce. This simple whole buffalo fish recipe looks impressive and serves as a wonderful light and delicious main dish!
Cooking a whole fish can seem intimidating but it’s actually very easy. This recipe will walk you through how to bake a whole fish so that it’s juicy and perfectly tender. Starting with a fish that is already gutted and scaled all you have to do is cover it in your favorite seasonings and then bake!
If you have never heard of buffalo fish before you might be thinking of buffalo chicken wings but using fish instead. But despite its name, buffalo fish is a type of freshwater fish.
Instead of covering it with a creamy buffalo sauce, in this easy recipe, a whole buffalo fish is stuffed with fresh parsley and lemon and then covered in a buttery cajun garlic sauce and lemon slices. It’s an impressive baked fish dinner that everyone will enjoy!
Whole buffalo fish. Fresh fish is incredibly flavorful and it has a wonderful texture. If you can’t get your hands on fresh, make sure to completely thaw before using.
Cajun seasoning. This bold, smoky, and flavorful spice blend is added to the butter sauce.
Lemon. Adds a bright citrus flavor to the fish. Lemon juice is poured over the fish and lemon slices are cooked on top.
Garlic cloves. Minced and added to the sauce to give the fish a bolder garlic flavor and aroma. It complements lemon and seafood very well.
A fresh sprig of thyme. Cooked on top of the fish.
Butter. Melted to create the cajun lemon garlic sauce and helps the skin become extra crispy.
Fresh parsley. Stuffed inside the fish cavity to flavor the inside.
How to make baked buffalo fish recipe
Its best to use fresh fish for this recipe. If you have a frozen buffalo fish, thaw it first. Its best to leave the fish in the refrigerator overnight or until thawed completely. You can also leave the fish on the counter for couples hours.
Remove scales and clean whole buffalo fish. Rinse very well with cold running water and place on the parchment paper lined baking tray. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Meanwhile prepare your seasoning mix. Melt butter and mix it with Cajun spices, minced or finely chopped garlic and half of the lemon, juiced. Make slits in the fish and cover it with the butter mixture.
Add some inside the fish as well. Place parsley in the fish cavity along with leftover lemon slices. Place slices on top of the fish with thyme springs(optionally).
Bake for 30 minutes or more, depending on the size of the fish. The internal temperature of fully cooked fish should be at least 145 degrees.
What kind of fish is it
Buffalo fish or bigmouth buffalo is a type of fish and not only a cooking style. This freshwater fish is native to the rivers and streams of North America.
It is a large bottom-dwelling fish with greyish/brownish colored skin. Because of its size and shape buffalo fish is often confused with the common carp, but these are two different fish varieties.
While buffalo fish is not as common as other types of fish, it is a tasty whitefish known for its sweet flavor that’s both delicate and flavorful without being fishy tasting.
Because of its slightly firm texture, this fish holds up really well when grilled, baked, or stir-fried.
Substitutions
Buffalo fish. Catfish is a good substitute for buffalo fish.
Seasoning. Creole seasoning or Old Bay seasoning. You could also simply use a blend of cayenne pepper, smoked or regular paprika, black pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder.
Fresh herbs. Use whatever herbs you love! Sprigs of fresh rosemary, oregano, cilantro, or tarragon would taste amazing in this baked buffalo fish recipe.
Variations
If you want to make actual buffalo-style buffalo fish, cover fish fillets with buffalo sauce then bake until tender.
Roast with baby gold potatoes, fingerling potatoes, cherry tomatoes, asparagus, or onions to make a richly flavored and easy side dish.
Frequently asked questions
Side dishes
You can add zucchinis and cherry tomatoes to the baking tray to cook together with the fish. They will turn out lovely. If feeding a crowd cook some white or brown rice or potatoes. It could be roasted potatoes, mashed or scalloped. Or simply boiled with dill and butter- my favorite!
Make a fresh spring salad with romaine lettuce or arugula, kale, cherry tomatoes, onion and cucumbers. Drizzle olive oil and a little bit of balsamic vinegar and enjoy your healthy dinner!
Another great side dishes for white fish are broccoli, Brussels sprouts or asparagus. Perfect for late dinners and very healthy!
Leftovers
Store baked buffalo fish leftovers in the air tight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat in the microwave for about 1 minutes. Don’t overheat or it will overcook the fish and it may become dry. You can also reheat buffalo fish in the oven. It will take about 5 minutes to reheat with the temperature on 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
Or use you oven broiler! No time needed to preheat, just pop it in the oven and broil for couple minutes. Watch closely, it may burn fast.
More seafood recipes
Ninja Foodi cod recipe
Argentinian shrimp recipe
Air fryer haddock
Air fryer stuffed salmon
Cuttlefish recipe
Whole catfish recipe
Air fryer frozen cod
Ninja Foodi frozen salmon
Baked shrimp oreganata
John Dory recipe
Hope you will like this Baked Buffalo fish recipe as much as we do. Rate the recipe if you like it and leave a comment below if you have any questions or suggestions.
A Self-Professed ‘Fly Snob’ Shares His Guilty Pleasure of Bait Fishing for Colorado’s Largest Sport Fish
A lake trout (Mackinaw) taken on a sucker minnow. Photo by Jerry Neal/CPW.
At 7 a.m. on a sunny May morning, the fun begins: “Clang!” The empty Dr. Pepper can supporting my fluorocarbon line topples and crashes down the rocky bank toward the water. The clatter of the makeshift strike indicator disturbs the tranquil Lake Granby shoreline and rouses me from my early morning stupor.
I jump from my folding chair, spilling my coffee and hurry across the bank to rescue my spinning rod from its metal, v-shaped holder. Line races from the reel’s open bail, and my anticipation soars — the first “run” of the morning is always the most exciting.
With rod in hand, I allow the fish to swim freely a few more seconds. Then, with a subtle “click,” I close the bail, put the reel in gear and stop the fugitive before it strips me of both line and bait. The fish hits the tight line like a dog reaching the end of its leash, bending my rod into a deep arch. The resistance pushes the circle hook through the fish’s jaw, and the battle begins. Three minutes later, I land a fat 5-pound “Mack” — not huge, but a terrific way to kick off this outing.
Karen Krueger proudly displays her first Lake Granby lake trout. Photo by Jerry Neal/CPW.
During the next four hours, pop cans fall like targets in a shooting gallery. My friend Karen Krueger and I land eight fish in the 2- to 7-pound range and miss half as many more. By noon the action is over and we are enjoying a relaxing lunch on the beach. Krueger, who just experienced her first “Mack”-fishing trip, is grinning ear to ear. “That was a blast,” she says with childlike enthusiasm. I nod in agreement, while biting into my turkey sandwich and doing my best to ignore the foul stench of sucker meat on my fingers. We spend the rest of the afternoon basking in the warm sun. And although I’ve experienced days just like this one countless times throughout the years, I’m reminded again of how much I enjoy bait fishing for one of Colorado’s supreme sport fish — lake trout.
The author with his catch. Photo by Karen Krueger.
Okay, I admit it: I enjoy bait fishing for lake trout. As a self-proclaimed “fly snob,” it’s not easy confessing my fondness for bait fishing to my fly-fishing peers, particularly when that style of bait fishing involves soda cans and sucker meat. But a few times every year, I happily leave the fly rod at home and load my bait-fishing tackle into the Jeep — never once feeling an ounce of embarrassment about the cooler of sucker meat that’s sitting on my back seat. (Well…maybe just a little.)
Like most anglers, I began my fishing career drowning worms and salmon eggs for brook trout, rainbows and the occasional suburban-pond sunfish. But nothing captured my youthful imagination like bait fishing for lake trout. The nearly magical combination of catching large — sometimes enormous — fish and the almost methodical setup involved made fishing for “lakers” the ultimate boyhood adventure.
As I grew older, however, my angling interests transformed completely when I received my first fly rod — a transformation that soon became a life-long passion. And for the last 25 years or so, I’ve joined that haughty fraternity of anglers who fish almost exclusively with artificial flies. But as much devotion and love as I have for fly fishing and all its highbrow qualities, I occasionally feel the need to return to my bait-fishing roots.
Angler Katie Knoll caught her first lake trout on sucker meat while fishing at Lake Granby on May 31, 2011. Photo by Jerry Neal/CPW.
In addition to being just plain fun, there’s a nostalgic quality that draws me to this simple, unpretentious style of angling. Bait fishing takes me back to those Huck Finn days of my youth, when I wasn’t concerned about the intricacies of fly casting, tippet weights or “matching the hatch” — only catching fish on minimal tackle and sharing those prized moments with family and friends. Isn’t that really what fishing is all about? As an adult, I find there’s also something intrinsically relaxing about fishing with bait. It’s a chance to give your casting arm a rest while idly enjoying the mountain scenery and a cold drink from the comfort of a lawn chair. I can’t think of a better way to spend a spring or fall day in Colorado.
According to surveys conducted by Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW), nearly half of the state’s anglers fish with bait. So, in addition to divulging my “guilty angling pleasure” to the masses, I penned this article to present all those “worm dunkers” out there with a new challenge. And to challenge my fellow lure-and fly-fishing brethren to rediscover how much fun you can have with a spinning rod, bait hooks and dirty hands — and I do mean DIRTY hands.
Sucker meat, the primary bait for lake trout, permeates your skin with a fishy odor that no amount of same-day hand scrubbing removes. My hands, cell phone, fishing gear — even the steering wheel on my Jeep — smells of sucker meat for a couple of days after a successful lake trout fishing trip. Wearing rubber or latex gloves while baiting the hook solves this problem, but the only thing worse than getting caught handling sucker meat by one of your fly-fishing buddies is to be sporting a pair of rubber dishwashing gloves while you’re doing it. Dirty hands are just part of the bait-fishing experience — a rite of passage, so to speak, for every aspiring angler who has enough courage to bait his or her own hook. If nothing else, fishing with sucker meat will get you to stop biting your fingernails faster than any other remedy. And the possibility of catching a heart-stopping lake trout is definitely worth all of the stinky side effects.
There’s likely no other freshwater fish possessing more names than lake trout; the fish has more aliases than Jesse James. In Colorado, anglers often refer to them as lakers, Mackinaw or Macks. In the Great Lakes, Alaska and Canada, where lake trout are native, fishermen call them grey trout, lake char, paperbellies, leans, siscowet and salmon trout. But perhaps the most appropriate and descriptive moniker is found in the fish’s Latin name: Salvenlinus namaycush. Namaycush, a Native American term, is said to mean “tyrant of the lakes” or “dweller of the deep.” Either translation is apropos to anglers, as lake trout are Colorado’s largest predatory sport fish, inhabiting some of the state’s coldest and deepest waters.
Characterizing lake trout as “tyrants” is fitting. They are voracious predators that feed almost exclusively upon other fish. They also get big — really big. Unlike most trout species that rarely surpass the 15-pound mark, lake trout can grow to mammoth proportions. Mackinaw in the 20- to 40-pound range are fairly common in Colorado, with anglers landing monster specimens exceeding the 40-pound mark annually. The state-record lake trout, taken from Blue Mesa Reservoir in 2007, tipped the scale at a whopping 50.35 pounds — now that’s a fish worthy of being called a tyrant! Although most lake trout caught from shore typically range in size from 2 to 20 pounds, the possibility of catching a leviathan is always present. And it’s the excitement and uncertainty of never knowing what’s lurking on the other end of your line that makes lake trout fishing so addictive.
In addition to their tyrannous ways, lake trout are truly deep-water dwellers, spending most of the year at depths of between 60 and 200 feet — that’s uncharted territory for most other freshwater fish. And it’s this preference for deep, cold water that keeps lake trout safe from the lines of most fishermen. Only anglers fishing through winter ice, or those fishing from boats equipped with sonar and downriggers, are able to get lures and jigs deep enough to reach lake trout during the summer and winter.
But during the spring and fall months, the tyrant briefly abandons its deepwater haunts and moves within reach of shore fisherman. In early spring at “ice-off,” lake trout move into the shallows to feed and remain there until water temperatures exceed 50 degrees, usually occurring around the second or third week of June at most high-mountain reservoirs. As summer progresses and water temperatures warm, the fish return to deep water and remain off limits to shore anglers until late October, when they come back to the shallows to spawn. Although the window of opportunity is narrow, early spring and late fall is when bait fisherman should fish hard and fish often.
Gearing Up
One of the best things about bait fishing is that it doesn’t require a lot of expensive or sophisticated equipment, and fishing for lake trout is no exception. Chances are, if you are nothing more than a weekend-warrior angler, you already have the necessary rods and reels in your garage to pull off a successful outing.
For lake trout, I prefer medium- to heavy-weight spinning rods. A fairly stiff, 6- to 7-foot rod is ideal to ensure effective hook-setting and to provide enough backbone to land larger fish. Some Mackinaw fishermen prefer huge saltwater surf rods, which allow them to zing bait long distances off shore. Either setup works fine, but I prefer the fun and finesse of using lighter-weight equipment. Medium-size rods cast well and can handle lake trout of all sizes, and playing fish on lighter rods is immensely more enjoyable.
Match the rod to a medium-capacity, open-faced spinning reel spooled with 6- to 12-pound test line. I prefer “clear” fluorocarbon lines, but standard monofilament or braided line like Spiderwire are fine options. Braided line works best when tipped with a 3- to 4-foot monofilament/fluorocarbon leader above the bait hook. The added leader helps conceal the more visible braided line from wary fish.
Regardless of line selection, drag adjustment is critical. The reel’s drag should be set loose enough to allow large fish to strip line from the reel without snapping it. A properly set drag can mean the difference between landing and losing the fish of a lifetime.
Sucker Soaking 101
Because lake trout are predators with a voracious appetite for other fish, one of the most effective baits is whole, dead suckers or sucker meat. Frozen suckers, sold at most bait dealers and sporting goods stores, are convenient and are generally available in a variety of sizes.
When I can find them, I prefer small, 4- to 6-inch minnows or chubs. My favorite technique is to fish these whole, threading a size 5/0 or 6/0 snelled saltwater circle hook through the minnow’s body from head to tail (see photo slideshow below). Once the hook is threaded, I attach the snell (loop end) of the hook to the main line with a snap swivel. The benefit of fishing with whole minnows is that they cast well and sink to the bottom without adding lead weight to the line. This allows the minnow to move naturally in the current, closely mimicking a dead baitfish.
The key to fishing with whole minnows is to keep the bail open on the reel after casting. Most often, lake trout will grab the dead minnow and continue swimming without stopping. Fishing with an open bail allows fish to continue moving without resistance from the rod, line or reel. Here’s how to set this up: Cast the minnow and allow it to sink to the bottom. Once it settles, reel in some of the excess line and remove most of the slack. Then, reopen the bail so the line peels freely from the spool.
Soda Can Strike Indicator
An empty soda can makes an ideal strike indicator when fishing with an open bail. Place a small stone on top of the can to prevent false alarms on windy days.
To detect strikes with an open bail, run the loose line around the lip of an empty soda can. The can serves as a strike indicator and topples when a lake trout takes the bait and swims away. To prevent false alarms on a windy day, set a small stone on top of the can to add a small amount of weight. Once a fish grabs the bait, I usually allow it to run for approximately 20 seconds before closing the bail and “setting” the hook. This allows enough time for the lake trout to take hold of the minnow, increasing successful hook-ups, but does not give the fish enough time to completely swallow the bait. On rare occasions, fish may drop the bait before the time has elapsed. If this happens, reel in the line, check the bait and recast. As they say, you win some and lose some.
‘Cutbait’ Night Crawler Rig
A standard bait-rig consisting of a sliding sinker, snap swivel and snelled circle-hook is effective when fishing with pieces of sucker meat.
If sucker minnows are not available, the second-best option is to fish with meat or “cutbait” from larger suckers. When using cutbait, I prefer a traditional night crawler bait rig, equipped with a sliding sinker, snap swivel and larger-size snelled circle hook. It’s important to cut sucker meat into bite-size strips or chunks. Baiting the hook too heavily or with excessively large pieces of meat may obscure the hook point and prevent a clean hook-set. With cutbait, keep the reel’s bail closed and set the hook when a strike is first detected. To spice things up a bit, try adding a night crawler and a salmon egg to sucker meat. I dub this smelly combination “triple delight.” It works great when cutbait by itself isn’t enough to tempt finicky “lakers.”There are some caveats when fishing with sucker meat: Make sure to store suckers in a cooler of ice until you are ready to use them. Once sucker meat gets warm, it turns mushy and falls apart, which makes it nearly impossible to keep on a hook when casting. If frozen, make sure the meat has thawed completely before use. Thawed meat produces a stronger scent, making it more likely to attract fish and it also sinks to the bottom more effectively than bait that’s still partially frozen.
Final Tips
Similar to most other angling or hunting pursuits, lake trout fishing is an early morning endeavor. In both the spring and fall, lake trout are most active in the early morning from sunrise until 12 p.m. Fish continue feeding throughout the day, but generally, fishing past noon is spotty at best.
Before heading to your favorite fishing destination, pay a visit to the area’s sporting goods store. Local shops are a great place to purchase bait and other last-minute supplies. Most importantly, shop owners can provide information to help make your fishing trip more successful. When fishing from shore, it’s helpful to know which areas of a reservoir are most productive. This is particularly important when fishing exceptionally large waters like Granby or Blue Mesa. Shop owners know all the particulars of local waters and are usually more than happy to share “inside” information with their customers.
Even if bait fishing is just not your thing, or it’s been years since you’ve “drowned a worm,” I encourage you to give lake-trout fishing a try. You’ll never have more fun watching a soda can topple and line race from your fishing reel. And who knows? You just might end up catching the fish of a lifetime. Or better yet, you may rediscover those simple, childhood- angling pleasures that got you “hooked” on fishing in the first place.
NOTE: Colorado fishing regulations prohibit the use of live fish as bait east of the Continental Divide above 7,000 feet, and west of the Continental Divide, excluding Navajo Reservoir. Therefore, anglers fishing for lake trout must use previously frozen or packaged baits to ensure compliance with regulations. Colorado Parks and Wildlife encourages anglers to keep smaller-sized lake trout. Check the fishing regulations for bag and possession limits.
Mark Farmer, 36, of Lakewood, caught this trophy lake trout while fishing at Lake Granby on May 14, 2011. The monster fish measured 39 1/4 inches in length. Fishery biologists estimate the fish weighed nearly 30 pounds and was approximately 20 years old. The trophy-sized “Mack” was safely released back to the reservoir. Farmer plans on getting a synthetic mount based on photos and the fish’s measurements. Photo by Jerry Neal/CPW.
Unveiling the truth behind dry firing a Gamo air rifle, this intriguing headline delves into the possibility of safely practicing without ammunition. Join us on an enlightening journey as we uncover whether this popular air rifle can withstand dry firing, providing valuable insights for enthusiasts and novices alike.
Can you dry fire a gamo air rifle?
Dry firing refers to pulling the trigger of a firearm or air rifle without any ammunition loaded. When it comes to Gamo air rifles, dry firing should generally be avoided. While some firearms can handle dry firing without any issues, most air rifles, including those made by Gamo, are not designed for this practice. Dry firing a Gamo air rifle repeatedly can cause damage to its internal components, such as the piston and spring.
The main reason why dry firing is not recommended for Gamo air rifles is that they rely on the presence of a pellet or BB in the barrel to absorb the force generated during firing. Without an ammunition load, the energy from the compressed air is not dissipated properly and can cause excessive stress on the gun’s mechanism. This can lead to premature wear and tear, reduced accuracy, and potential malfunctions over time.
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Gamo air rifle, it is best to avoid dry firing altogether. Always make sure to load your rifle with appropriate ammunition before pulling the trigger. If you need to practice your shooting technique or test the trigger pull without using actual pellets or BBs, consider investing in snap caps or dummy rounds specifically designed for air rifles. These devices mimic the weight and shape of real ammunition while protecting your gun from unnecessary stress caused by dry firing.
In conclusion, dry firing a Gamo air rifle should be avoided as it can potentially damage the gun’s internal components. Dry firing without a pellet in the chamber may cause the piston to slam forward with excessive force, leading to potential harm. It is advisable to always use a pellet when operating an air rifle for optimal performance and longevity.
When we think of ivory, we think of an elephant’s tusks, or the teeth of a walrus, a whale or a hippo. But few people realize elk in North America are actually carrying around a remnant from their prehistoric ancestors, which you can find in their teeth. However, these “ivories” can be easy to miss if you don’t know where to look. Today, we’ll discuss what exactly they are, and why they’re worthwhile to hold onto.
Hundreds of thousands of years ago, the ancestors of what we now call elk are believed to have had full-fledged tusks, similar to the Asian Muntjac deer, which still has upper canine tusks. Although it’s likely the ancestors of elk used their tusks to fight in the same way Muntjac deer do today, evolution produced the antlers we admire today, making the tusks virtually useless. Even though they’ve completely disappeared, there is still a pair of ivories hidden in the upper jaw.
Depending on where you are, you may hear people refer to them as “eye teeth,” “whistlers,” or “buglers,” but each is referring to the same thing. And, just like any other tooth, they’ll slowly wear down and stain over time as the elk continues to age.
This question has been asked for thousands of years, as Native Americans once used elk ivories as a form of currency. Today, they still carry a certain value, particularly among jewelers and craft enthusiasts, but it’s difficult to put a dollar amount on them. Considering a pair of elk ivory earrings could go for $30-$40 on eBay right now, it’s safe to say they aren’t a commodity. However, even as common as elk are in North America, few people even know these ivories exist, so there is still a rarity element that creates a certain level of demand.
Some states regulate which parts of an animal you can and can’t sell, though, so make sure to check your local game regulations before you start wheeling and dealing. Considering the lack of monetary value, many hunters try to turn the ivories from a harvested elk into a memento by which they can remember their hunt.
How to remove elk ivories
Here is the tricky part. Many hunters down their elk in extremely remote areas of the North American wilderness. After all, the best elk hunting is often in the hardest-to-reach spots. Your first and only thought may be packing your animal out, which does unfortunately make it easy to forget about those two special, hidden teeth. And, most hunters will tell you that getting them out certainly isn’t easy, as it will take a lot of labor and patience with a knife to dig them out. You have to be careful not to damage them, too, meaning you should avoid using a pair of pliers to pull them.
Hushin, one of the more popular hunting YouTube channels, demonstrated a fairly easy and efficient way to extract them in the video above. You’ll see Eric Chesser uses a block and a hammer to get the job done despite the head being fairly dried out, which should have made it even more difficult.
Eric says an old hunter taught him the trick. It seems like there is almost always a better way to do things found by an old timer, isn’t there? He simply uses a hammer and block of wood to quickly pop the ivories out of the jaw. We’d recommend using this technique if you have a block and hammer handy. It might be a good idea to throw these items in the back of your truck before your first elk hunt of the year.
Why you should keep your elk ivories
Even if it appears that elk ivories don’t have a lot of monetary value right now, that doesn’t mean it will always be true. If you’re the kind of lucky hunter who gets to bag an elk every year, put those elk teeth away and save them for a rainy day. Who knows what they’ll be worth in the future?
If you’re good with crafts, this is a good chance to make a gift for someone special that comes from the heart. Maybe your significant other “tolerates” your hunting obsession. A handmade elk ivory pendant or piece of jewelry would be a good way to say thank you.
You could also use them to form lasting memories. Did your child just shoot his or her first elk? Make them a pendant to wear around their neck. You could even make matching ones, one for you and one for them. They’re sure to hold a lot of sentimental value as your child grows older.
But perhaps the best reason to hang onto elk ivory is to simply utilize as much of the animal as you can. As hunters, we owe it to the animal to let very little go to waste. Even if you can’t see a use for the ivory right now, hang onto them. You just may find the perfect use in the future.
For more outdoor content from Travis Smola, be sure to follow him on Twitter and check out his Geocaching and Outdoors with Travis YouTube channels.
READ MORE: EVERYTHING THERE IS TO FIGURE OUT ABOUT COLORADO ELK HUNTING
“It’s not the size of the dog in the fight that matters – but rather the size of the fight in the dog.”
But in the air rifle world, it is now clear that both matter.
After all, why is there all this debate on the .177 vs .22?
Being the most popular air rifle calibers in the world right now, new shooters, as well as experienced ones, raise many questions regarding the performance of these two calibers.
However, do not forget that the velocity of the pellet likewise changes with the weight of the pellet and the firing capability of the airgun.
The greatest muzzle energy is achieved with a good combination of pellet weight, shape, and velocity .
See below some typical muzzle energy values for values obtained by testing the .22 model of Stoeger X50 air rifle with different pellets:
Pellet Brand
Type
Weight (grain)
Average muzzle velocity (fps)
Average muzzle energy (fpe)
The Peak
Pointed
12.1
900
21.8
The Peak
Domed
13.7
890
24.1
Daisy Max Speed
Pointed
14.2
890
25.0
Stoeger X-Field
Domed
14.7
860
24.1
Crosman Premier
Domed
14.3
850
23.0
RWS SuperPoint
Pointed
14.5
850
23.2
Beeman Model 1249
Pointed
15.5
820
23.1
Stoeger X-Power
Domed
21.1
690
22.3
And now typical muzzle energy values obtained by testing the .177 model of Air Arms Pro Sport Air Rifle:
Pellet
Pellet Weight (grain)
Average Muzzle Velocity (fps)
Average Muzzle Energy (fpe)
Gamo Raptor Platinum
4.7
1090.73
12.42
H&N Field Target Trophy Green
5.56
1100.43
14.94
RWS Hobby
7.00
961.77
14.38
Crosman Premier HP
7.9
909.20
14.50
JSB Exact Diabolo
8.44
830.84
12.94
H&N Field Target Trophy
8.64
846.77
13.67
H&N Baracuda Match
10.65
768.50
13.97
Though the above two sets of tests are not from the same air rifle brand, it is highly evident that .22 air rifles are generally more powerful than .177 air rifles.
Experts claim that manufacturers give the .177 air rifles some little more attention so as to achieve accuracy levels that cannot be matched by any .22 model.
This is at least logical if you have some understanding of what the accuracy of airguns entails.
Accuracy in air rifles is usually measured by firing a given number of pellets at the same target and analyzing how far from each other the shots hit the target.
If the shots are tightly clustered together, this is an indication of high accuracy.
If the shots are wide apart, the air rifle is said to be less accurate.
A number of factors influence the accuracy of airguns.
First and foremost is the machining quality of the air rifle.
The barrel must be quality enough to ensure it propels the pellet in the intended trajectory.
Some manufacturers tackle this by using rifled barrels.
Another factor that influences accuracy is the muzzle velocity.
An airgun with a higher muzzle velocity is likely to be more accurate than one with a lower muzzle velocity.
Of course, the pellet has to move as fast as possible to the target before it is distracted by air resistance.
In line with this is the weight of the pellets.
If the pellet being used is very light in weight without sufficient muzzle velocity Fildena
It tends to be somewhat overcome by air resistance and drift significantly from the intended trajectory.
The .22 pellets are generally heavier and less likely to be swayed by the wind.
However, their muzzle velocity is generally less than that of .177 air rifles.
For this reason, we can conclude that .22 pellets are more accurate than .177 pellets if the target distance is not significantly far.
This introduces to us another aspect of air rifles referred to as the range.
The range is basically how far your target is from the point you are shooting from.
With a .177 air rifle, you expect the range to be bigger than when using the .22 air rifle.
Aside from target shooting, the .177 caliber is excellent for fun plinking.
It is normally thrilling to hit those soda cans with precise accuracy.
And in case you got some nuisance pests lingering around your yard
You can still eliminate them one by one with your .177 airgun.
We are talking here about rats, squirrels, and magpies.
Quite a number of air rifles have muzzle velocities that surpass this figure.
Science tells us that whenever a moving object surpasses the speed of sound, the result is a loud noise referred to as the sonic boom.
This said the .177 caliber is likely to be louder than the .22 caliber, for the basic fact that they are associated with higher muzzle velocities.
Note however that the loudness of air rifles depends on other factors such as:
The presence or absence of silencers, machining quality of the barrel, type of powerplant, and recoil effect of the airgun.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. .22 vs .177 which is larger?
In reference to the pellets, the .22 pellets are definitely larger than the .177 pellets.
The same applies to the barrel of the air rifle.
However, regarding the size of the whole air rifle, you’ll be surprised that a majority of the rifles have the same weight and length for the different models.
See the manufacturer’s specifications below for some of the most popular air rifles.
Air Rifle
.177 model
.22 model
Barrel Length (inches)
Overall Length (inches)
Weight (lbs)
Barrel Length (inches)
Overall length (inches)
Weight (lbs)
Air Arms S510 XS Xtra
19.75”
43.5”
7.2 lbs
19.75”
43.5”
7.2 lbs
Hatsan BullBoss QE
23.0
36.8
8.6
23.0
36.8
8.6
Airforce Condor PCP
24.0
38.75
6.1
24.0
38.75
6.1
Airforce Talon SS PCP
12.0
32.75
5.25
12.0
32.75
5.25
Beeman R9 Elite Series Combo
16.5
43.25
8.5
16.5
43.25
8.5
Gamo Magnum Air Rifle
21.3
48.0
6.88
21.3
48.0
6.88
Diana 460 Magnum
18.44
45.0
8.3
18.44
45.0
8.3
Evanix Rainstorm II PCP
17.0
39.0
7.2
17.0
39.0
7.2
Wingman115 did an in-depth comparison between .177 vs .22 here:
2. How far will a .177 pellet travel?
This information is very crucial as you need to know how far you need to stand away from the target.
There are a number of factors that affect the distance of travel of the pellet.
The first factor is the angle with which you shoot.
If you shoot downwards from your position, the pellet will soon be stopped by the ground or vegetation.
If you shoot in an upward trajectory, the pellet may go further than the intended distance as there may be no obstacle to stop it.
The maximum distance is usually achieved when the pellet is shot at an upward angle of 45 degrees.
The second factor is the muzzle velocity.
Obviously, the higher the muzzle velocity the further the pellet will travel.
Next is the pellet shape .
The more streamlined the pellet is, the farther it will travel as the air resistance will be minimal.
Think of the general shape of the front of cars.
No high-speed vehicle is designed with a square front.
Pellets come in different shapes, the most popular being wadcutter, pointed, domed, and hollow point.
Still, on pellets, the weight matters.
Lighter pellets are more likely to be swayed by the wind so that they often don’t reach their maximum possible distance.
We already established that with .177 pellets, you are looking to hunt animals such as birds, rabbits, squirrels, skunks, and rats.
These are the top 5 .177 pellets I recommend for small game hunting:
Gamo red fire – 7.8 grain – these have a diamond-shaped polymer tip that easily penetrates the target.
Crosman hollow point pellets – the hollow pointed gives a greater impact than the pointed pellets, and this has a devastating effect on the vermin.
JSB EXACT – The diabolo shape adds more weight to the pellet compared to the hollow point pellets, and the result is higher impact energy on the prey.
Crosman field hunting pointed pellets – Made of the finest quality lead but still priced fairly
Hatsan H&N terminator HP pellets – It combines a hollow point shape with a sharp raised tip at the center of the hollow for deeper penetration and high impact.
Haendler & Natermann H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme hollow point airgun pellets – With a 9.57-grain weight and consistent quality, these are perfect pellets for both target practice and small game hunting
4. How lethal is a .177 air rifle?
It was just last year that Stanley Metcalf, a six-year-old boy from Sproatley, was shot in the abdomen by his grandfather, Albert Grannon.
The kid died hours later in the hospital while undergoing treatment.
Back in 2000, one rooftop sniper in the East New York section of Brooklyn used a pellet rifle to kill 30-year-old Joffre Cedeno and severely wound four others.
This list of airgun fatalities can go on and on, but the bottom line is that air rifles are dangerous, period.
Never play around with them like toys, be it a .177 or .50 caliber.
Carefully follow all safety precautions required when handling weapons.
This article covers the rangefinders the top precision rifle shooters in the country carry in long-range competitions. This is the first year I’ve asked about rangefinders, so it was exciting to see which brands these experts trust to give them an accurate target distances. The data is based on a recent survey I conducted of the top-ranked shooters across the country in both the Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and National Rifle League (NRL). (Learn more about the PRS & NRL). This is a very unique data set, because it includes a wide sample size (170+ shooters) who also represent the leading experts in the field. (View all the What The Pros Use articles)
Many pieces of gear are simply nice-to-haves, but most long range shooters would agree that a good rangefinder is one of the most critical pieces of gear in your kit. If you don’t know the exact distance to the target, your odds of connecting on the first round plummet dramatically. (Want to see how much an accurate range matters? Read this post.) Almost all stages in precision rifle competitions are comprised of known distance targets (aka “KD” targets), which means the match director or range officer provides all shooters with the target distances. You don’t have to range them yourself. However, I can say from experience that there are typically at least a couple targets at every match where the distances provided are wrong by more than 5 yards, which could be enough to result in a miss. I usually carry a Vectronix PLRF rangefinder, which is a military-grade rangefinder that is EXTREMELY accurate, and I carefully double-check all the ranges before a stage. I’d estimate that 95% of the targets are within 3-4 yards of what is provided, which rarely would cause a miss, but many veteran shooters double-check ranges to increase their odds on that last 5%.
But here is the dilemma with rangefinders: The further the target, the more critical an accurate range becomes. Yet at the same time, the further the target is the harder it is to acquire an accurate range. In a long range competition, many targets may be set between 300 to 600 yards, which most rangefinders can easily get a reading for. At the same time, the exact range at those distances usually isn’t that critical (unless it’s a very small target). But when targets start approaching 1,000 yards and beyond it is critical to have an accurate range, which can be difficult for some rangefinders to pull off in bright/midday conditions. While targets at 1,000+ yards don’t represent the majority of targets in a match, it’s those scenarios we’re thinking about when choosing which rangefinder to trust. That’s especially true among these fiercely competitive shooters, where just a couple of hits could be the difference between 1st place and 10th place! Having an accurate range is key!
One last note is that many guys prefer to carry ranging binos, like the Leica Geovid HD-B 3000 Rangefinder Binoculars or maybe the new Sig Kilo 3000BDX 10×42 Ranging Binoculars that so many seem to be talking about. Having ranging binoculars can be really convenient, because you just carry one piece of gear for both observation and ranging, and don’t have to pack or fumble between two devices. However, some of the most accurate rangefinders may only be available as a monocular, like the Vectronix Terrapin X, so the “right” rangefinder may come down to striking the right balance for your application between ranging performance, convenience, optical clarity, etc. If you’re not willing to compromise on any of those, you could end up spending a lot! Recently a few new ranging binos have been released, which is a welcomed change. A few new monocular rangefinders feature 7x magnification (compared to the more common 5x), which is also trending in the right direction. Hopefully more manufacturers will move to 7x or even more magnification for pocket rangefinders, which seems more appropriate to help you pinpoint targets at the distances these devices are capable of. The majority of the time these guys are ranging targets from a supported position (like off a tripod) for the best accuracy, where the old 5x magnification might be more appropriate for closer range targets that are primarily used off-hand. Higher magnifications will also make monocular rangefinders more useful for observation as well. (Hint, hint, manufacturers!)
Most Popular Long Range Rangefinders
So let’s dive into the data and see which brands of rangefinders these shooters chose to put their trust in when every shot counts! Here’s the data:
The various colors on the chart represent the league and rank of the shooters. For example, black indicates shooters who finished in the top 10 in the PRS, dark blue is those who finished 11-25 in the PRS, and the lighter the blue, the further out they finished in PRS Open Division season standings. The green colors represents the top shooters in the NRL, where the darkest green is the top 10, medium green is 11-25, and light green are 26th to 50th. <strong>The legend on the chart itemizes the league and ranks each color represents, but basically the darker the color, the higher up the shooters placed.
Sig Sauer and Vectronix are the most popular rangefinders, combining to represent 50% of the 170+ shooters surveyed! They were followed by Leica, Swarovski, Nikon and Bushnell, who combined to represent 42% of these elite marksmen. The remaining 8% of shooters were split among several brands.
Sig Sauer was the most popular overall, representing 28% of the top competitors in the nation. Sig has been very aggressive in the expansion of their optics line, and have quickly taken the place as one of the industry leaders in terms of both value and performance. The Sig Kilo 2400 ABS Rangefinder ($1300 street) is a very popular pocket rangefinder capable of ranging long distances, and it’s equipped with the Applied Ballistics engine for calculating a full firing solution on the fly. Sig recently released the Sig Kilo 3000BDX 10×42 Ranging Binoculars, which also features the Applied Ballistics engine on-board. I’ve heard an early report from a trusted laser expert that this new rangefinding binocular from Sig offers world-class performance compared to other 905nm, consumer-grade rangefinders. The optical clarity of the binos may not be to the same level as Leica or Swarovski, but the price tag is less than half of those brands. The street price for the SIG Sauer Kilo3000BDX Laser Range Finding Binocular is just $1,200! Like I said before, Sig is really competitive in terms of both performance and value.
22% of these top shooters said they used a Vectronix rangefinder. I also noticed Vectronix was the most popular brand among the top 10 shooters in the PRS, with 4 shooters represented among those top competitors. Vectronix is considered by many to be the gold standard when it comes to rangefinders. Vectronix primarily serves military customers, and until recently their lowest priced model on the market was the Vectronix PLRF 25C, which is a military-grade rangefinder with a street price of $9,300 that is capable of ranging beyond 6,000 yards even in bright/midday conditions (see my field test showing that). A military rangefinder is based on a 1550nm wavelength laser and the pulse produced might have 100,000 watts of peak power, compared to a 905nm wavelength consumer-grade rangefinder that produces 10-25 watts of peak power. There is a lot of technical details behind the differences, which I explain in this post, but the executive summary is the parts in a military-grade rangefinder are MUCH more expensive and overkill for distances 99% of shooters will ever engage. It’s really only the guys shooting Extreme Long Range that need the level of performance the PLRF is capable of, although I have seen some of these guys carry a PLRF at matches. Many of these guys are shoot A LOT (like 5,000+ rounds per year), so having a rangefinder that will give you a ridiculously accurate range on virtually any target you might ever point it at is a pretty compelling proposition. They may not drive a new truck or own a bass boat, but they have a killer rangefinder! It’s all about priorities, I guess.
Vectronix released the Terrapin X a few months ago, which is a consumer-grade rangefinder with a street price of $1800. While it doesn’t have the same extreme performance as its military-grade big brother, it is capable of ranging beyond 2000 yards, even in bright/midday conditions (see field test data). The Vectronix Terrapin X provides very accurate ranges well beyond the ranges most long range shooters will ever want to engage, and you won’t have to sell a kidney to be able to afford one! I’m sure a few of these guys already had their hands on a Terrapin X, but I’d expect that number to grow in the future since this product was still relatively new last year.
Leica rangefinders were used by 15% of these top shooters, which landed it as the 3rd most popular brand among this group of pros. One interesting note was that 4 of the top 10 shooters in the NRL said they were using a Leica rangefinder, which made it the most popular brand among those top finishers in that league.
The Leica Geovid HD-B Ranging Binoculars seem to be very popular among this group. Leica HD-B binos offer both world-class optical clarity and outstanding ranging performance. While they may not be quite as capable as the Vectronix models, they are far better than the average rangefinder. When I tested several rangefinding binoculars a couple years ago, the Leica HD-B’s were standouts among the group (see the data), and what I personally ended up investing in after conducting that test. The latest model, the Leica HD-B 3000 is even better than the model I tested, and it has a street price around $3000.
Leica also recently released the Leica Rangemaster CRF 2800.COM Laser Rangefinder, which is really compact, pocket rangefinder capable of long range performance. It also features Bluetooth connectivity so that you can link to your Kestrel Ballistic Weather Meter, and once you range the target it will wirelessly transmit the distance to your Kestrel, the Kestrel calculates the firing solution and sends that back to the rangefinder, which displays it in the field of view. That makes for a very quick and smooth workflow from seeing the target to getting on the rifle and applying the necessary adjustment. The Leica CRF 2800.COM rangefinder has a street price of $1100.
Swarovski rangefinders were used by 12% of these shooters overall. Like Leica, Swarovski does offer a monocular rangefinder, but it seems like more of these competitors use their ranging binoculars. The Swarovski EL Range Binocular offers the legendary optical clarity that Swarovski is known for, and also offers rangefinding capabilities. However, according to Nick Vitalbo’s epic rangefinder test that was published in Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting Volume II, the Swarovski rangefinders don’t perform as well as the Leica products when it comes to ranging. The street price for the EL Range bino is around $3300.
Nikon rangefinders were used by 8.1% of shooters. The Nikon BLACK RANGEX 4K rangefinder claims to be capable out to 4000 yards on reflective targets with its “8-Second Sustained Measurement.” I’m a bit skeptical that it’d be able to range that distance on real-world targets, although it might could range the side of a barn that far in ideal conditions. However, an independent industry expert tells me the ranging performance is exceptional for the price, with ranging performance similar to Leica rangefinders. The Nikon Black RangeX 4K rangefinder has a street price of just $450, so it’s MUCH less expensive than any of the other models referenced so far, and based on that performance report it has be one of the highest value rangefinders on this list!
Bushnell rangefinders were used by 7.6% of these top shooters. I know some see Bushnell as a “cheap” brand, but I’ll say that once I really started doing objective, data-driven testing, my perception of Bushnell changed dramatically. Yes, they do make some entry-level products, but they also make some higher performance equipment that typically offers exceptional performance for the price. In fact, I can’t remember a field test I’ve done where I included a Bushnell product and they didn’t end up having the best performance per dollar spent. Case in point, is the Bushnell Elite 1 Mile CONX Rangefinder/Kestrel Combo, which includes both a rangefinder and a Kestrel Sportsman Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics and Link for $1000! Normally that Kestrel model sells for $400, and you’re also getting a fairly capable rangefinder with it – and the two can connect wirelessly for a seamless solution. I tested the Bushnell 1 Mile Ranging Binoculars in a field test a couple years ago, and you can see how it performed in this post.
Those brands of rangefinders already mentioned represent 92% of the top shooters, and the remaining 8% were split among a few different brands:
4 shooters used a Leupold rangefinder. In my last post, one of my readers mentioned that they used the Leupold RX-2800 Rangefinder in the field and had this to say about it: “I cannot speak to its ‘true’ accuracy, but I was able to range bluffs and eroded hills in the North Dakota badlands out to 2200+ yards consistently in midday and late day conditions.” That unit is priced at $600, and Leupold also offers a new ranging bino for $3000.
2 shooters used a Vortex rangefinder. Vortex’s best performing rangefinder is the Vortex Razor HD 4000 monocular rangefinder for $500, and they also offer a Vortex Fury HD 5000 Gen II 10×42 Rangefinding Binocular for $1200.
1 of the top 25 shooters in the PRS used a Gunwerks rangefinder. The Gunwerks G7 BR2500 Rangefinder is a very capable device with an accurate ballistic engine on-board, which I’ve personally used to get first-round hits out to 1 mile. I also believe it’s one of the easiest to program and use in the field. The street price is $1600.
1 shooter said they used a Kahles ranging binocular. Kahles is the tactical sister-company to Swarovski, so their products typically have amazing optical clarity. I personally hadn’t heard about Kahles offering a ranging binocular, but was able to find some info on the Kahles Helia Rangefinder Binoculars.
1 shooter used a Steiner rangefinder. According to Nick Vitalbo’s rangefinder test data published in Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting Volume II, the Steiner Military 8×30 Rangefinder Binocular was one of the top performers, with very similar performance to the Leica HD-B Rangefinder Binoculars. It has a street price of $2250, which makes it one of the highest values among ranging binoculars.
1 shooter used a Zeiss rangefinder. I included the Zeiss Victory Rangefinder Binoculars in a field test I did a couple years ago, and you can see those results here.
4 of the 170+ shooters surveyed said they didn’t use a rangefinder, or they just borrowed one at matches from someone in their squad. That only makes up 2% of these guys, but many shooters are more than willing to share ranges they measure with whoever asks. I certainly would. So if you’re on a tight budget, don’t feel like you absolutely HAVE to own one before you try out your first match. You can get by without one, but long-term a reliable and trustworthy rangefinder is a worthwhile investment for a long range shooter. I hope this helps you guys narrow down your search to find the best rangefinder for your application.
If you’re interested in learning more about rangefinders, here are a few good posts you’d probably be interested in:
How Do Rangefinders Work?
Ranging Binoculars Field Test Results
How Much Does Accurate Ranging Matter?
Extreme Long Range Tips: Rangefinders
2019 Pocket Rangefinder Field Test Results
If you REALLY want to learn more, I’d recommend reading Nick Vitalbo’s expert explanation of rangefinders in Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting Volume 1, and see his epic rangefinder test in Modern Advancements in Long Range Shooting Volume 2. That is BY FAR the best information I’ve ever come across on rangefinders, and I still go back and reread and reference it occasionally. GREAT resource!
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