In this article, we will discuss the best freshwater fish to eat and why they are so good for you. We’ll also cover some of the health risks associated with eating certain types of fish, and provide tips on how to select fresh fish at the grocery store.

There are a few types of fish that remain at the top of the list among fish enthusiasts’ list of favorites. However, some of them might be hard to locate and obtain. But that’s no reason not to try them, as those fish species are truly some of the most highly recommended freshwater fish for eating.

Best Freshwater Fish for Eating

Here, we’d like to talk about a few of our absolute favorite tasty freshwater fish and provide some practical advice on why they are the best freshwater fish for eating.

Salmon

Salmon is a well-known fish among many fish lovers. Salmon may be cooked in many ways and is actually one of the fish types you can find easily no matter where you are.

There’s a good chance that your local fish market or grocery store offers many types of salmon from which you can choose easily. And you can make a variety of meals with salmon and serve them to your friends and family.

Salmon is an anadromous fish, meaning it moves from freshwater, to saltwater, and returns for reproduction purposes. In many areas of the world, there are landlocked salmon that live their entire lives in freshwater, so salmon is considered both a freshwater and saltwater fish.

There are many ways you can eat salmon. It can be baked, roasted, fried, or even grilled.

Salmon works well even now in an air fryer. This adds diversity to a straightforward fish. It has plenty of Omega-3-rich fatty acids as well which is really good for your health overall.

Salmon has a moderate flavor, so you will not get any significant fish-type flavor, which is why it is often enjoyed by those with little experience consuming fish.

Trout

The well-liked freshwater fish, trout, is easy to prepare and has a delicious flavor.

There are several types of trout that are often consumed:

Rainbow trout, brown trout, cutthroat trout, brook trout (not technically a trout, but widely included in this group), lake trout, and other species of trout.

Roasted trout is one of the best trout dishes there is. However, it also tastes great when fried or grilled. Just make sure that you cut the trout into tiny chunks if you decide to fry it.

We recommend some brown rice and maybe some steaming or vegetables on the side when you’re ready to serve the trout. If you are camping, it is easy to place trout in some foil over a fire and have an incredibly meal while camping.

Pike

Another really tasty freshwater fish to cross off your list is the pike. Due to their preference for chilly water, they are more prevalent in northern states and regions.

As opposed to the majority of the other fish we’ve discussed here, you should expect a slightly fishy flavor from this fish.

The majority of people, however, use flavorful seasonings and inventive recipes to mask the fishiness. The fishy flavor will appeal to seafood lovers. When it comes to cooking pike, you may relish its rich flavors and flaky meat, so it’s quite adaptable.

Baking is the most typical method of preparing pike. The results from broiling or grilling these fish are rather good. A word of caution with pike: it’s bony, which means you want to take a bit of extra care when cleaning and eating. This is a fish where some local fish and wildlife may suggest not eating them based on water conditions.

Bluegill

Bluegill can be an exquisite choice if it is obtained in the proper environment. Bluegills are known for being some of the best tasting warm water fish species, but they taste can differ based on environment quite a bit. Bluegill in cold water vs hot water, in a lake, vs a pond, vs a river can all have some different flavors. This can make for some fun variation and experimenting.

Bluegill is most often fried, or cooked whole. Bluegill are small fish almost always less than 12 inches long, with a mild taste, firm meat, and it does not have a fishy taste.

Bass

Since the bass typically has a mild flavor, you can cook it pretty much however you like and still have a delicious meal.

Similar to bluegill, bass can have a slight note of sweet flavor. Although they don’t taste particularly fishy, you will detect some can detect a fishy flavor to them. Bass is such a commonly targeted sport fish, that is generally overlooked as a fish to consume, but in some regions, you’ll find this as a very common fish to eat.

Crappie

People who just love spending time fishing in the nearby river or pond frequently catch this species of fish. They are considered one of the easiest fish species to catch, which makes them a great fish to target for beginners or family.

Crappie have a mild and sweet flavor. The texture of the meat is flaky but firm, which some people find to be similar to lobster or crab.

While you can fry crappie, many fishermen will say that baking or grilling provides the best flavor.

There are many different ways to enjoy freshwater fish. These are just a few of the most common and best-tasting options that you’ll find.

Freshwater Drum

This fish is a bit of an acquired taste for some because it can have a muddy flavor.

This flavor is not present in all freshwater drums, however. If you catch one from clean water, you will be pleasantly surprised by its delicate and mild taste. The texture of its meat is also quite firm.

If you have never had freshwater drum before, baking is probably the best way to prepare it and get a feel for its flavor. You could also fry it or grill it if you’re feeling adventurous.

Catfish

Catfish is an extremely common and delicious freshwater fish to eat.

When it comes to taste, a smaller to medium-sized catfish is preferable, especially if you are worried about fishy flavors. The smaller the fish, the milder the taste will be.

There are many different ways to cook catfish. One popular way is to fry it, but you could also bake it, or even grill it.

No matter how you choose to prepare it, be sure to remove the skin and any dark meat before cooking as this can make the taste quite strong.

Perch

Perch is a mild-tasting fish that is popular among fishermen and seafood-lovers alike. It has a delicate flavor with firm, white flesh.

One of the best things about perch is that it can be cooked in many different ways and still taste great.

Cusk

Cusk is a freshwater fish that is lesser known but definitely worth trying.

This type of fish is frequently compared to cod, haddock, or pollock because they have a very similar taste and appearance. They are whitefish with rather large flakes. They also have a moist texture and a delicate flavor which makes them perfect for people who are not fans of fishy tastes.

Cusk is a great option for people who want to try something new but don’t want to stray too far from what they’re used to. It is versatile and can be used in many different recipes.

If you want to try cusk, it is best to baked, grilled, or poached.

Final Thoughts

There are many different freshwater fish to choose from if you want to add fish to your diet. These are just some of the best options available. Not only are these fish best for eating, but you can also try different recipes and have an amazing lunch or dinner with your family and friends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Fish From Freshwater Have Parasites?

Fish in freshwater are parasitized by a variety of cestodes (tapeworms) as well as trematodes (flukes). However, one tapeworm is Ligula, which has various life stages that are parasitic on fish, crustaceans, and birds in order. In most cases, fully cooking fish prevents the passing of any parasites.

Can You Acquire Worms Via Fish Consumption?

When a person consumes fish that is infected with the worm Diphyllobothrium latum, such as undercooked or raw fish, they may become infected with fish tapeworms. They key is to fully cook your fish. Fish tapeworm is the most frequently used name for the worm. This particular species of tapeworm develops in raw fish-eating big animals and small aquatic organisms as victims. This generally can be fixed easily without long lasting effects.

What Types Of Freshwater Fish Are Unsafe To Eat?

Do some research on the best freshwater fish in your area to find out what’s available and what would be the best option for you and your family. Some local areas have populations of fish that may not be safe to consume, or contain contaminants that can be harmful to your health. A simple search on the local fish and wildlife organization will likely supply you with all the needed information.

Whether you are a fan of striker-fired guns or not, they are what’s hot, what’s hip, and they are here to stay.

But what has all that popularity gotten us? Well, a lot of black polymer pistols that look really similar.

There is a dizzying amount of striker-fired pistols on the market today, and it can be tough to figure out what sets them apart from the competition and, more importantly, which one might be right for you.

With that in mind, we filmed a video and compiled a list of our favorite striker-fired pistols (in no particular order) and why we think they rock.

Keep reading to see what we recommend!

THE QUICK LIST

Best Striker Fired Handguns

But first…if you aren’t familiar with the differences between striker-fired and hammer-fired pistols, we have you covered with our complete breakdown here!

Now, onto our faves!

1. Sig Sauer P365 X-Macro

The X-Macro is Sig’s latest evolution of their ultra-popular micro-compact P365, and we have to say…it delivers.

Even though it is only 1.1 inches wide and 5.2 inches tall, the X-Macro has a mind-boggling capacity of 17 rounds of 9mm.

No other manufacturer has managed to stuff this many rounds in a gun this size.

Features include an optics-ready slide that lets you keep the rear sight when a red dot is installed, X-Ray night sights, a full 1913 accessory rail, extended beavertail, and an integrated compensator.

Additionally, Sig was able to retain the full frame, slide, and fire control unit compatibility with previous versions of the P365.

Overall, the solid ergonomics, a good trigger, and the compensator make the X-Macro far easier to shoot than you might expect, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to maximize capacity without getting a full-size pistol.

Don’t forget to check out our review of the P365 X-Macro in the video below or read up on the deets in our full review!

2. CZ P-10C

Sometimes guns punch above their weight class, and we definitely feel that way about the CZ P-10C.

It may look like another Glock 19-type clone, but in the end, you are getting more for your money.

For starters, users will find a surprisingly nice striker-fired trigger on the P-10C. Secondly, CZ worked their ergonomic magic to produce a gun that avoids that blocky 2×4 feeling of some other polymer pistols.

Aggressive grip texturing and slide serrations, a deep beavertail, and mild palm swells help this pistol feel like it ”locks in” to your hand.

Metal sights are also a nice upgrade over much of the competition, and optics-ready versions are also available. Metal 15-round magazines are also standard.

The result? A super flat shooting, comfortable pistol with great features that comes in under $500.

Want to know more? Head on over to see our full review of the CZ P-10C!

3. Glock 19

You knew it was coming. We knew it was coming. What list isn’t complete without a Glock 19?

Many designs have come and gone, but the Glock 19 has remained and is widely considered the gold standard of striker-fired pistols.

Why is that? One word — reliability.

With decades of military and law enforcement use under its belt, the Glock 19 is the most time-tested handgun on this list, in addition to being the most popular handgun in the world (with the biggest aftermarket).

Its 15+1 capacity and 4-inch barrel have become the industry standard size for compact pistols.

The trigger isn’t the best and is pretty spongy by today’s standards, and the ergonomics are a bit blocky for our taste. However, these guns still point well, shoot well, and their simplicity and ease of use can’t be understated.

Those who put a premium on reliability, flexibility, and simplicity will be hard-pressed to find a gun that does those better.

Don’t forget to take a peek at our 3,500-round review of the Gen 5 Glock 19!

4. HK VP9

I know it sounds like heresy, but HK’s best gun just might be their cheapest one — the VP9.

Why is that, you say? Well, they finally made a handgun to compete for civilian sales rather than trying to lock down military and agency contracts.

Taking aim at other striker-fired guns on the market, the VP9 set out to do a lot of things better, and it did.

For starters, the VP9 has one of the better striker-fired triggers on the market. It is relatively crisp, with a predictable break and a fairly short reset.

Old models used 15-round magazines, while newer models have a 17-round capacity.

Where this gun truly shines is ergonomics. Not only are the backstraps interchangeable, but the side panels are too. This allows left or right-handed users to adjust the palm swell to fit them perfectly.

Standard VP9s sport an ambidextrous paddle magazine release. It can take some getting used to, but it is quick and intuitive after the switch is made. For those that prefer a traditional button release, HK also produces a VP9-B variant.

Additionally, you get good slide serrations, as well as rear cocking wings that make racking the slide a breeze. It is capped off with a sizeable ambi slide release, making this one of the most lefty-friendly guns out there.

These guns are accurate, comfortable, and still deliver the famed quality and reliability that HK is known for.

Wondering if this is the gun for you? Take a look at the video review below or read up on it in our full review of the VP9!

5. Walther PDP

Last but definitely not least is the Walther PDP, and boy, does it have us in a lather. To be honest, we love these guns, but for a good reason.

Walther’s Performance Duty Trigger has a little bit of take-up to a defined well, then a very clean break right at around 4-4.5 pounds, and a very short reset.

This is one of the best striker-fired triggers on the market, only matched by guns like the Canik Rival (a Walther clone).

All PDPs come with optics-ready slides, but the downside is that you have to submit a request to Walther to have them mail you the adapter plate for your specific red dot.

As usual, Walther implemented excellent ergonomics in the form of good grip texture and chunky Super Terrain slide serrations.

Users with small to medium-sized hands will also appreciate the extended, easy-to-reach ambidextrous slide release.

The PDP is also available in various barrel lengths and also with full-size (18+1 capacity) and compact (15+1 capacity) grip sizes.

Additionally, Walther has recently introduced the PDP-F, which features a reduced grip to trigger reach and an easier to rack slide.

Accuracy and reliability are hallmarks of all Walther duty guns; the PDP has that in spades.

Still not sold? Check out our 10,000-round review video of the PDP below and our written review!

Honorable Mentions

Narrowing it down to just five pistols was challenging; unfortunately, not everything could make the cut. With that in mind, we snuck in two pistols in the video that didn’t quite make our best of but that we still like.

Smith & Wesson M&P 2.0 Metal

Life is better with a bit of heavy metal, right?

Smith and Wesson took their venerable M&P and glammed it up with an all-metal frame and an improved trigger to create the M&P 2.0 Metal.

With good looks in tow, it also has a jaw-dropping performance to match. These guns are extremely accurate, fast shooting, and soft-recoiling.

They are a bit heavy for duty use for some and are on the slightly spendier side for a striker pistol, but they run.

You can see our video on the M&P 2.0 Metal below or take a look at our full written review!

Grand Power Q1S

The Grand Power Q1S is by far the strangest inclusion on the list, but hey, some of us are strange people.

Much like the Beretta PX4, the Q1S features a rotating barrel design that helps reduce muzzle flip. With a smaller 3.6-inch barrel, the recoil reduction is both noticeable and welcome.

Additionally, the gun has a shockingly good 3.5-4lb trigger that breaks cleanly at 90 degrees.

Consider the fact that you get metal sights, fully ambidextrous controls, and three 12-round magazines for around $400, and you have a real sleeper on your hands.

Final Thoughts

Striker-fired pistols have improved so much in the last 15 years that it is hard to pick just five and keep the list manageable.

If you didn’t see a specific gun here, be sure to check out our other articles, as we might just have what you are looking for.

What’s your favorite striker-fired handgun? Sound off in the comments below. Want to dive into the world of pistols even more? We got you. Check out our recommendations for the Best Beginner & Home Defense Pistols and Best Concealed Carry Guns.

Anyone who’s ever tried Chesapeake Bay Fishing has almost certainly stumbled into a tackle store to grab some lures at one time or another, and struggled to pick which colors to go with. With a million different variations from white to nuclear chicken, picking out which colors to keep stocked in your box is no easy task and there is no magic color that will work in all conditions. So, let’s cover all the basic necessities as well as when each has its place. Regardless of what species you are fishing for, the same rules apply.

First let’s talk about how the time of day and water clarity play a role in color selection. Think of clarity as a spectrum with two main categories: clear and muddy. For clear water, natural patterns will work the best since the fish have the ability to really focus on the bait. Green pumpkin is a good natural color to imitate bluegill and crawfish. White is a good color to imitate shad and bunker. Transparent and ghost patterns also work well in clear water. For muddy water, fluorescent and dark colors stand out the best. Another effective tactic particularly for muddy water is adding contrast by using a different color skirt or dipping the tail of your baits in scented dyes. Using scents such as Pro-Cure or choosing abladed lure that sends out vibrations can also be to your advantage in the muddy water because it can help fish find your lure.

“Match the hatch” is a term you have likely heard before, and it simply means picking a lure that is similar in shape, size, and color to what the fish are feeding on. The best way to figure out what fish are feeding on is to take into account what baitfish and crustaceans live in the body of water you’re fishing, as well as paying close attention to the fish you catch. Sometimes fish will regurgitate their stomach contents when caught, which is an easy indicator of what the fish are eating. You may also notice things like bluegill tails or crawfish antennae sticking out of a fish’s gut. The majority of the time, however, it is just guesswork until you find a pattern.

The basic rule of thumb is to pick colors that best match what’s abundant in the watershed you are fishing. For instance, a pond with lots of bluegill will mean that green pumpkin and bluegill patterns will work best when targeting bass, and a lake with lots of shad will result in white patterns working well. One final note about matching the hatch: the forage fish will shift throughout the seasons as abundance changes.

When fishing in low light conditions and at night, resort to black, blue, and purple because they will be the most visible. (Bonus tip: when fishing in low light conditions use baits that give off lots of vibration and sound to help fish key in on them).

The exception to the previous rules is when trying to trigger a reaction strike from fish on beds or fish protecting fry. When bed fishing for bass or snakehead, you want your bait to aggravate the fish and make it strike out of aggression. The two best patterns for this are bluegill shades, because bluegill often get chased off beds for trying to eat eggs or fry, and solid white baits because they are good for sight fishing when trying to maintain contact with a bed.

When it comes to stocking your tackle box, the best way to make sure you are prepared for any condition is to keep a few simple patterns at all times. For bass and snakehead baits try and keep a more natural pattern like green pumpkin or white and a dark pattern of each of your favorite baits. That is the bare minimum, so feel free to snag any of your personal favorite color schemes as well. For saltwater soft plastics, especially on the Bay, the majority of baitfish can be imitated using white lures. So, try and keep a white pattern for clear and stained water and a chartreuse pattern for green water. For saltwater hard-baits you can keep it simple with a few chrome lures, white, and if you are into night fishing, some black or dark purple.

Finally, always remember that feeding patterns and environmental conditions are constantly changing so although a specific color may work one day, it may not be the ticket a few weeks later. Don’t be afraid to play around with colors until you find something that works.

Bonus Tip: Match the Patch

An easy rule of thumb to remember is to match lure color with water color. Simply look out at a patch of water, and choose accordingly. In clear water, white’s a good pick; in green water, chartreuse works well; in muddy water, root beer is a good option. Match the patch, and you have a solid starting point to work from.

Bonus Tip: Depth Charge

Remember that depth affects lure color, because colors fade as you go deeper into the water column. Reds begin to disappear just a few feet down, take on a whitish hue, and are completely gone at 15 feet. Oranges and yellows disappear next, followed by greens, and then finally blues. So an orange and red plastic with a white skirt may offer great color contrast when you hold it in your hand, but if you’re letting it sink to 20 feet then bouncing bottom, the contrast level is near zero.

-By Ian Rubin

.308 Winchester is rightfully one of the most popular cartridges among U.S. hunters. With a .308 round, you can take down medium to heavy animals, such as elk, at 300 to 500 yards. Also, since the ammo is widely available, you don’t have to suffer to get it.

On the downside, .308 Winchester rounds generate recoil energy between 15 and 18 foot-pounds, which some hunters find excessive. If .308 recoil is too much for you, you don’t have to quit using the round. Instead, minimize felt recoil and enjoy shooting the round by switching to one of the lowest recoil .308 rifles.

Here are some of the best .308 hunting rifles for hunters that prefer less recoil:

Ruger American Rifle Vortex Crossfire II Combo

Replace your current rifle without overspending by buying the Ruger American Rifle Vortex Crossfire II Combo. It’s arguably the lowest-recoil .308 rifle you can get for less than $800.

However, don’t let the affordability deceive you. The Vortex Crossfire II is just as reliable and effective as many $1,000+ rifles. It even comes with a scope. Also, the rifle has a soft rubber butt pad that softens the kick when you shoot, making firing .308 rounds more accurate and less painful.

Another reason to love the Vortex Crossfire II is it weighs a bit more than other .308 hunting rifles on this list. The extra weight reduces how much recoil transfers to the shooter and minimizes muzzle rise. In summary, the Vortex Crossfire II is one of the best .308 hunting rifles to buy if you want a reliable low-recoil gun that won’t break the bank.

Henry Long Ranger

Do you prefer traditional-looking rifles? If so, the Henry Long Ranger might be for you. The hunting rifle features a 20-inch barrel for optimal accuracy and bullet velocity when shooting .308 rounds. It also has beautiful wood finishes on the stock and forestock.

Like the Vortex Crossfire II, the Henry Long Ranger weighs about seven pounds and reduces how much recoil transfers to the shooter. Also, the Henry Long Ranger has a thick rubber recoil pad on the base of the stock. The recoil pad cushions kickback, making shooting the rifle less injurious to your shoulder.

Nosler M21

If you have over $2,000 to spend on a low-recoil rifle, the Nosler M21 is worth considering. It’s one of the best .308 hunting rifles for precision shooters, and Nosler built this rifle to be reliable and durable in any terrain or weather.

The Nosler M21 also comes with a one-inch recoil pad that cushions the kickback when you fire a round. The thickness of the recoil pad keeps the rifle’s length of pull within a comfortable range to prevent awkward handling that might worsen felt recoil.

Lastly, the Nosler M21 has a threaded barrel where you can easily attach a suppressor or muzzle brake. Attaching either of these accessories will significantly reduce the rifle’s recoil.

Browning X-Bolt Speed Suppressor Ready

The Browning X-Bolt Speed earns its badge as one of the lowest recoil .308 rifles for hunters thanks to features like its radial muzzle brake and Inflex recoil pad. The radial muzzle brake on the barrel has side vents that reduce the force with which expanding gases explode from the muzzle to launch rounds. The result is less felt recoil when you shoot.

On the other hand, the Inflex recoil pad is one of the better recoil pads for minimizing felt recoil and protecting your shoulder when you fire. Lastly, the Browning X-Bolt Speed has a threaded muzzle where you can attach a suppressor to reduce recoil even more.

Springfield Waypoint 2020

The Springfield Waypoint 2020 is a good-looking firearm that delivers impressive performance. While it’s pricier than other rifles on our list, the Springfield Waypoint justifies its price tag with its precision. In fact, the manufacturer is so confident about the precision of this rifle that it offers a .75 MOA guarantee.

The Springfield Waypoint 2020 also gets top scores for reduced recoil. The rifle has less recoil because its integral machined recoil lug spreads out the force that ejects rounds from the muzzle. The rifle also has a removable SA Radial muzzle brake that minimizes kickback when attached.

Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter

Bolt action rifles aren’t for everyone. If you prefer hunting with a semi-automatic, the Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter is one of the best .308 hunting rifles to buy. It’s an AR-10 rifle built with premium components and a matching price tag of $3,000+.

Unlike a typical bolt action rifle, a gas-powered semi-automatic like the Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter spreads recoil across various components, leading to less recoil. The firearm’s recoil is tolerable enough to prevent soreness after a day of hunting.

Winchester XPR

The Winchester XPR is an affordable and effective bolt action rifle that has rightly earned a place among the lowest recoil .308 rifles. Its Inflex® Technology recoil pad reduces felt kickback, and the cross-mounted recoil lug minimizes recoil’s effect on shooting accuracy.

Several models of the rifle are available, such as the suppressor-ready Winchester XPR Stealth SR and the XPR Compact Scope Combo with detachable scope. Each option is available at a different price, allowing you to pick a rifle that matches your budget and shooting needs.

What to Look for in a Rifle

We’ve provided options to choose from if you want to buy the lowest recoil .308 rifle, but which should you choose? Picking the perfect low-recoil rifle requires taking several factors into consideration. For instance, you need to consider the price.

The most expensive rifles typically have premium components, but you don’t need something that expensive if you plan to use the firearm only a few times a year. Instead, pick a rifle that offers your preferred features without exceeding your budget. Below are the features to prioritize when looking for a rifle that fits your budget:

Reliability

You don’t want a rifle prone to misfiring or a firearm that might fall apart during use. Avoid such issues by buying a rifle from a manufacturer with a reputation for building firearms that stand the test of time. The gun should feature high-quality components and treatment that minimizes corrosion or rust, such as bluing or a Cerakote finish.

Accuracy

Hunting with an inaccurate rifle means you’ll be relying on Lady Luck to hit your targets. Since Lady Luck is unpredictable, opt for an accurate rifle that facilitates precision shooting. Accurate rifles typically come with an MOA guarantee, such as the Springfield Waypoint’s .75 MOA guarantee.

Fit

If a rifle is too long or heavy, you will have trouble handling it and experience felt recoil more intensely. Pick a rifle that you can comfortably shoulder and maneuver to track targets.

The rifle should also have a comfortable length of pull (LOP) – the distance between the trigger and the base of the butt plate or recoil pad. A too-short or long LOP will make shooting uncomfortable and inaccurate.

Action

You can opt for a break, bolt, lever, or semi-automatic action rifle. Break action rifles typically hold one or two rounds and require swinging open the barrel to eject and chamber rounds.

Bolt-action rifles have a bolt at the top that you manually slide to eject a spent round and load a fresh one. Such rifles are famous for their accuracy, reliability, and durability. Lever-action rifles work like bolt-action rifles but require working a lever under the shoulder stock to eject and load rounds. On the other hand, semi-automatics automatically eject and load rounds after each shot to help you shoot faster.

Barrel Length

The best .308 hunting rifles have a long barrel (between 18 and 24 inches). The longer the barrel, the greater the accuracy and bullet velocity. However, the longer the barrel, the heavier your rifle will be, which can cause portability and maneuverability issues. Choose a rifle with a barrel long enough to deliver the best shot without compromising your ability to maneuver the weapon conveniently.

Make Any Rifle Lower-Recoil Using a Suppressor

Attaching the right suppressor to your hunting rifle can make the weapon look more lethal and tactical. Besides aesthetics, hunting with a high-quality suppressor has several other benefits.

Benefits of Using a Rifle Suppressor

Reduced Recoil

You can turn your hunting firearm into the lowest recoil .308 rifle by attaching a quality suppressor. A suppressor goes on the muzzle of a firearm to slow the explosive escape of expanding propellant gas, leading to less recoil.

Hearing Protection

Besides reducing recoil, slowing the release of expanding propellant gas reduces gunfire noise. A rifle without a suppressor can be louder than 140 decibels, which is loud enough to cause immediate harm to your hearing. A high-quality suppressor can reduce gunfire noise by up to 36 decibels.

More Stealth When Hunting

A suppressor can also hide your muzzle flash. If prey can’t hear your shot or see your muzzle flash, your location will remain hidden, and you can catch other nearby prey unawares.

Situational Awareness

Sudden muzzle flash in the dark can temporarily render you blind, while unsuppressed gunfire can make you temporarily deaf. A suppressor prevents such outcomes, so you can maintain complete situational awareness and avoid dangers during a hunt.

Invest in a Suppressor Today!

Regardless of which gun you choose from our lowest recoil .308 rifle list, reduce the recoil further by attaching a suppressor. Besides reducing recoil, a suppressor will protect your eyes and ears so you can enjoy hunting for many more ears.

Don’t know where to buy the best suppressor for your rifle? Visit our Silencer Central store today to shop for state-of-the-art .308 rifle suppressors.

Are you a newcomer to the world of crossbow hunting. Or have you been away from the sport for a few years and just need a refresher on the basics? Either way, having a working knowledge of all the components of your crossbow is both useful and critical.

Being familiar with the parts that make up your crossbow and how each part works will make it easier to maintain your bow. Proper maintenance will help you get optimal performance from your crossbow when you need it.

Main Parts of a Crossbow

Two different styles of crossbows exist – compound bows and recurve bows. These crossbows do share some common basic parts. In its simplest form, a crossbow resembles a rifle with a horizontal bow mounted to the stock. It launches a bolt (or arrow) from the rail fixed on top of the barrel instead of firing a bullet.

How does each component of a crossbow work? Here’s an overview of each part and how it functions:

A. Stock

The portion of the crossbow you hold, away from any danger points, when you shoot a bolt. It rests against a shooter’s shoulder when in use. A stock is usually composed of wood or is injection molded from plastic or other composite materials. It serves as the functional base of the crossbow, tying the barrel, trigger and sight bridge together. Stocks are available in many configurations.

B. Foregrip

Your aiming hand rests under this part of the crossbow. Foregrips help give you better control of your shot so that you don’t fire off an errant bolt as easily. It helps you steady your aim and keep lined up with your target. Some crossbows feature removable foregrips or collapsible foregrips.

C. Trigger & Safety

The trigger is what releases the string and fires your bolt. Trigger mechanisms utilize two basic designs. It is either located directly underneath the latch that holds the string in a cocked position or the latch mounted behind the trigger. A safety prevents accidental release of a bolt and may engage manually or automatically once a crossbow is cocked. Some crossbows feature a dual safety system.

D. Barrel

A component also known as a rail or track, the barrel features a grooved track on top that aligns a bolt with the string. This creates consistent accuracy each time you shoot. Barrels can be composed of multiple materials. Polymers or plastic are common material for barrels in cheaper bows. Aluminum barrels are more common in higher end crossbows. It is light and stronger than plastic and stays straight. Carbon fiber barrels are also becoming more popular because they reduce overall weight on the crossbow.

E. Risers

This is the section of the crossbow where the limbs attach. Risers come in multiple configurations. It serves a primary purpose of holding the limbs of the bow at a certain angle. Typically risers are made from cast aluminum or machined aluminum. Some crossbows will feature a magnesium riser. Carbon fiber risers are also becoming an option.

F. Limbs

These are the ends of a horizontally mounted bow. Limbs are longer in recurve bows than compound bows because the length is needed to create similar power to that generated in a compound crossbow. The string connects to the end of each limb. Limbs on a crossbow are much heavier than on a vertical bow because the power stroke in a crossbow can be more than half as short as a typical vertical bow.

G. Cams

In a compound crossbow, cams are wheels mounted at the end of each limb. The string is attached to the cams and when it is pulled back, the wheels turn. This motion bends the limbs and stores a large amount of kinetic energy, which is then released once the trigger is pulled. These wheels can be round or oval shaped. The shape dictates the draw force curve of a bow and how much energy is transferred and stored when the string is pulled back.

H. Cable

Another component that is exclusively found on compound crossbows. The cable works in tandem with the cams for the purpose of reinforcing the crossbow and adjusting its firing power. Cams act like pulleys in keeping the cable taut underneath the barrel as the string is pulled back.

I. String

The most essential crossbow component. It is what propels a bolt forward. A string will influence the crossbow’s firing power and performance. It determines the feet per second (FPS) that a crossbow launches a bolt. Commonly used string materials include polyester fiber, synthetic fiber, and natural fiber. The material is chosen based on breaking strength, weight, and stretch capability. A string must be both light and durable in order to effectively transfer maximum energy from the bow to the bolt.

J. Serving

Wound tightly around the string, a serving protects a string from the arrow retention spring which holds it in the cocked position. The serving is approximately four inches long. It contacts and rides across the rail once the trigger is activated and the crossbow is fired at its intended target. It should always be centered on either side of the latch to assure that each shot will be consistent.

K. Flight Groove

A grooved track on top of the barrel between bow and latch. The flight groove serves an extremely important purpose. It allows the arrow to lie in perfect alignment with the bow’s string. This creates consistent accuracy each time a bolt is shot at an intended target. The flight groove goes right down the center of the barrel and allows the fletching to glide down the barrel without interference.

L. Arrow Retention Spring

A metal bar designed to hold the bolt in the flight groove until the trigger releases the latch. It keeps the bolt from slipping out so that you can transport the crossbow from one location to another and keep it cocked so it is ready to fire if an animal suddenly emerges. You can flip it over or point it straight down without jarring the bolt loose. The retention spring is typically molded using steel or plastic.

M. Latch

This is the mechanism that’s designed to capture the string when the crossbow is drawn. The latch works by holding the string in place and keeps it taut until it is released by pressing the trigger.

N. Sight

Aids in aligning the bolt with the intended target to improve accuracy when a shot is fired. Three types of crossbow sights include pin and peep, red dot and scope. Pin and peep sights feature an adjustable pin as a front aiming point and a rear sight peep hole molded from metal or plastic. This type of sight does not fog up or require batteries. Red dot sights are battery operated and have one to three aiming points. Scopes are the most widely used sighting method and offer multiple options in aiming points and magnification. Crossbow specific scopes vary from a rifle scope in that they are specially designed to meet ballistic performance and vibration of a crossbow.

O. Sight Bridge

This is where you mount a sight on the crossbow and hold it in place. It is a vital feature for any crossbow. A sturdy sight bridge gives a sight a solid base and that is so crucial for achieving consistent accuracy with each shot. Some crossbows connected the sight bridge to the trigger housing. Others bolt it to the stock. Sight bridges are typically made from a strong lightweight metal like aluminum.

P. Cocking Stirrup

A metal foothold used to aid in cocking the crossbow. It is a hoop-shaped piece of metal at the front of the crossbow. You place your foot directly inside the stirrup to prevent the bow from slipping while you draw back the string into cocking position. It is mounted to the end of the barrel or riser. The stirrup also protects the end of the bolt from being damaged while on the move.

Q. Quiver

Container for carrying bolts. Quivers are available in multiple shapes, sizes, and configurations. You can mount a quiver under the bow or on top of it. Some quivers can also be mounted parallel to the bow itself or mounted parallel to the barrel. A typical quiver holds 3 to 4 bolts and includes a plastic hood to protect broadhead blades from getting damaged or causing damage.

Parts of a Crossbow Bolt

Crossbow bolts are hunting arrows specifically designed to use with a crossbow. A traditional compound bow cannot fire a bolt. They work exclusively with crossbows. The design is similar to hunting arrows, but bolts are shorter in length because of the power stroke difference with a crossbow. Most bolts range from 16 inches to 22 inches long. 20 inches is the average length.

Bolts are composed of these specific elements:

A. Shaft

This is the main body of a bolt. The shaft is typically composed of aluminum or carbon fiber. These materials are lightweight and do not splinter like wood or cheap plastic. They are also highly resistant to bending.

B. Spine

Each shaft offers varying degrees of stiffness or resistance to bending. This stiffness is termed as the shaft’s spine. Greater resistance to bending means a shaft has more spine.

C. Grains

This is the unit used to measure the weight of the shaft. Manufacturers will either list the total weight of grains on a bolt or list a grains per inch (GPI) value for the bolt. To calculate the total weight of a bolt from its GPI value, just multiply the GPI value by the length of the shaft. You can covert the weight from grains to grams simply by multiplying the total number by 0.0648.

D. Nock

A plastic or aluminum attachment that fits directly onto the back of the shaft. The nock serves the purpose of keeping the bolt in place while you line up to take a shot. Multiple varieties of nocks are available. The primary types are the half-moon nock or flat nock. Capture nocks, multi-groove nocks, and Omni nocks are other options. Different nocks carry different requirements. With a half-moon nock, for example, it has a groove you need to align with the bow’s string before firing a bolt.

E. Fletching

The vanes or wings at the back of a bolt. Arrow fletching is located in close proximity to the nock. It helps stabilize the bolt during flight. The fletching keeps the bolt from pitching or swaying in the air and keeps it going in the right direction toward the intended target. It causes the bolt to spin on its axis after it is released from the bow in order to increase stability. Bolts typically come pre-fletched with vanes molded from plastic and varying in length. Longer fletching is used with longer bolts.

F. Head

Crossbow bolts use two types of heads: field points and broadheads. Field points are ideal for target practice. They offer a pointy tip and no sharp edges. Field points aren’t recommended for hunting anything except some small game because they won’t strike with enough force and do enough damage to quickly kill larger prey. Most field points weigh from 125 to 150 grains and can be screwed into the front of the bolt shaft. Broadheads possess a sharp blade and are used for hunting. Crossbow shafts can utilize three different types of broadheads – fixed blade, removable blade, and expandable blade. Just like field points, they weigh from 125 to 150 grains. You can shoot regular compound bow broadheads, but you’ll get the very best performance with the specialized crossbow heads.

Time to Go Shoot!

One of the best parts of using a crossbow is learning how each component works. It helps you understand how to properly use it and care for it. Now that you know every inch of your crossbow from top to bottom, there’s only one thing left to do. Time to get it tuned up and get yourself ready to enjoy hunting season!

We try to cover cool new fishing gear as it hits the streets, and as FishTalk reader know, nothing related to fishing is out of bounds. For the upcoming summer of 2022 we have four totally awesome goodies and we’re hoping that at least one of these will be of interest to you no matter what sort of an angler you are. Here goes:

Columbia PFG Shirts and Shorts

The Columbia PFG line makes no false promises — if anything, it overdelivers. Last summer, I tested out some of their gear both on and off the water to see how it holds up. Trying out their Women’s PFG Tidal II Shorts, Women’s PFG Tidal Tee II Long Sleeve Shirt, and Women’s PFG Tidal Tee Hoodie, I stepped onto boats fully outfitted in clothing to fish.

IMO, the most impressive feature of Columbia’s gear is how fast it dries. When tuna fishing in the Women’s PFG Tidal II Shorts and Women’s PFG Tidal Tee Hoodie they got totally soaked in fish blood, then blasted by a saltwater washdown to remove it. The spray removed all the blood, leaving the shorts looking new and dry within 15 minutes. Within 20, the Tidal Tee Hoodie was also totally dry. All of the clothing provided excellent movement and avoided chaffing; scooping crabs off the trotline truly put this to the test. During the scooping the clothes were comfortable, and the shirt cuffs even withstood the blue-crab-claw test. The PFG Tidal II Shorts also have two spacious front zippered pockets, which comfortably held my phone, wallet, and a variety of snacks throughout the day.

All in all, Columbia’s PFG line is lightweight, durable, highly functional clothing that’ll seriously up your comfort and flexibility on the water. Many of their options, including the ones I tested, offer Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection, an absolute essential for time on the water. While made for fishing, I also wore the shorts and both shirts while white water rafting, hiking, running, and generally out and about. I ended summer with a tan line proving how much I enjoyed these shorts — if you pick some up, I reckon you will too. Price: $40 to $60.

-By Mollie Rudow

Frabill Pow’R Source

New for 2022, the 12-V lithium battery Pow’R Source from Frabill is sure to power all your camping and fishing needs. The lightweight 10-amp-hour battery is housed in a hardy waterproof case that features two USB ports, a 12-V outlet, and binding ports. Whether you’re powering your fish finder, recharging your phone, or using the flashlight feature to tie on a bait, the Pow’R Source is a surefire way to power up your day out on the water. I tested it while kayak fishing and it powered my Garmin Striker fishfinder for four fishing days in a row, without making so much as a dent in the juice supply. Price: $219.99.

Snakehead Jawbreaker

Prying open the mouth of an angry snakehead is no easy chore, at least it isn’t if you don’t want your fingers perforated, but you’ll have to master the task to retrieve your topwater frog post-catch. Enter the Snakehead Jawbreaker. We spotted this inventive tool while wandering the Pasadena Sportfishing Group’s fishing tackle show, and it struck us as the perfect solution to the average snakehead’s angry attitude. Slide the bill into the fish’s mouth, squeeze the handles, and these reverse-hemostats ratchet open to spread the fish’s jaws wide and keep ‘em that way. The tool also has a large float attached so dropping it overboard isn’t a disaster. Price: $39.99.

Quattro Braid Fishing Line

Ever wonder what braid line looks like underwater? Well, the fish won’t tell us. We can, however, try casting with camo. We did just that after spooling up with Hi Seas four-color camo Quattro Braid in 20-pound test. The concept behind Quattro is incorporating blue, black, green, and red colors patterned in short random lengths, to break up visual patterns in the water. Yet you can still spot this line above the waterline like bright-colored hi-vis lines — without tipping off the fish to your line’s presence. This line feels like other braids with zero stretch and sensitivity that mono can’t even dream of coming close to. However, made with tightly woven ultra-high-molecular polyethylene fibers, it also offers a bit less diameter than some competitors and measures up at .008 inches versus the common .009 inches. If you like the idea of casting with 20-pound line that has the diameter of six-pound mono and offers a unique way to visually deceive those dwellers of the depths, check this stuff out. Price: $25.99/300-yard spool.

-By Staff

Jeremiah Wood, a biologist for the State of Maine, works through various aspects of fur trapping in this second part of his guest series. (Read part one, Five Reasons to Reconsider Trapping, here.)

For the uninitiated, trapping can seem disconcertingly complex. Trappers target a wide variety of fur-bearing animals all across the landscape, using very specialized tools and equipment on the trapline. Just look into the bed of a trapper’s pickup truck and try figuring out which item does what and where it’s used. The jumble of gear is enough to make your head spin. But once you figure it out, traps and their use are really not that complicated.

Traps can be broken down into three basic types: footholds, body-grips and hunting snares. Each is distinct from the others and has its own unique purpose on the trapline.

Foothold Traps

Foothold traps have been around almost since trapping began. Though some are complex, all footholds operate on a simple premise: the target animal steps on a pan in the trap’s center, tripping a trigger and causing spring-loaded jaws to close and grip the animal’s foot. Foothold traps are the most traditional, popular and effective trap used today. Every fur-bearing species can be caught with foothold traps and they come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and sizes.

The three main types of foothold traps are categorized by the springs that strengthen them. Long spring traps are the traditional footholds constructed with long, flat steel springs that power the jaws closed. Jump traps are powered by a single, short, flat steel spring situated underneath the jaws. Coil spring traps are a modern version of the jump trap, instead using coiled music wire springs to lift levers that power the jaws shut.

Foothold traps have a wide variety of applications on the trapline, from catching marten in the wilds of Arctic Alaska to beaver trapping in the swamps of Louisiana and most places in between. One significant benefit of foothold traps is that, when used properly, they allow for the unharmed release of any non-target animals. Foothold traps are the most common tool used to trap predators like foxes and coyotes, and are commonly used in wildlife management applications. In fact, footholds have been critical to the success of numerous furbearer studies and relocation efforts by state and federal wildlife biologists throughout the country.

Body-grip Traps

The body-grip trap, often referred to as the ‘Conibear,’ was revolutionized by trapper and inventor Frank Conibear in the 1950’s. It was offered as an alternative to the foothold trap in situations where a quick, humane kill of the captured animal was desired. The basic design of the trap includes two square jaws made of round steel in a box-shaped design, powered by one or two springs of the same material. When the springs are compressed, the jaws form an opening for an animal to enter, tripping a trigger in the opening when it travels through. The jaws then close shut, proving an almost instant kill.

Because of their lethal design body-grip traps aren’t useful in all situations, especially near civilization, where there’s potential to catch the neighbor’s dog or cat. They are most commonly used in water trapping, particularly for beaver, mink and muskrats, in wilderness trapping far from the beaten path and in other situations when precautions are taken to avoid non-targets. The body-grip trap was truly an innovation that filled a need in the trapping world and has greatly enhanced trappers’ ability to address animal welfare issues and capture some furbearers far more effectively.

Snares

While it appears the most simple, the snare may just be the most complex tool in the trapping industry. Type of cable and wire, diameter, orientation, breaking strength, lock types, stops, swivels, breakaways and a number of other components make snares incredibly customizable. If you know what you’re doing, you can create just the right snare for most any trapping situation.

Snares can also be fairly controversial, due to their past reputation for catching non-target animals. But advancements in snare technology have made much of that controversy a thing of the past, and many states are expanding snaring opportunities for trappers who know how to use them right. For instance, snares once would catch the occasional deer. Using a stop that limits loop size closure eliminates deer capture. When a large animal like a mountain lion or elk is captured, a breakaway allows them to power out of the snare, breaking it open and freeing them from capture.

Traditional snares used to kill some non-target animals. Using a relaxing lock instead of a kill-type lock allows a snare to hold an animal gently, effectively rendering the snare something we now call a “cable restraint.” In other situations where a quick kill is desired, springs and poles can be used to make that happen incredibly effectively. What was once a simple wire loop has now transformed into one of the most useful and adaptable tools at a trapper’s disposal.

Between footholds, body-grips and snares, a trapper’s arsenal can seem pretty complex—and perhaps it needs to be. Like everything else, trapping has changed with the times. Advances in technology have continued to make traps more efficient and effective, helping trappers continue to responsibly harvest wild fur. And if you’re looking to get into trapping, these advancements have made for a great set of tools to help start the journey.

Jeremiah is a biologist with the State of Maine and runs Trapping Today, a website dedicated to providing information and entertainment to the modern trapper. Find more from him at www.trappingtoday.com.

header image: Day Six Outdoors