The Chrysler/Dodge/Ram 5.7L and 6.4L HEMI engines power similar cars and trucks. This makes the comparison common as many wonder which engine is the best fit. Ultimately, 6.4 and 5.7 HEMI engines likely both have plenty to offer for most owners. With two great engine options it can be hard to pull the trigger but worry not. In this guide, we compare 6.4 vs 5.7 HEMI engine specs, reliability, performance, price, and more.

*5.7L and 6.4L HEMI engines are also known as the 345 HEMI and 392 HEMI, respectively. These numbers represent the engines displacement in cubic inches. We may refer to the engines by these names in this article.

Dodge HEMI Engine Specs

Below is a chart showing specs for the 5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI V8 engines:

Specs for the 5.7 and 6.4 HEMI engine are pretty straight-forward. They share many things in common especially when looking at similar year engines. Anyway, both share their V8 HEMI pushrod design with 2 valves per cylinder. 345 HEMI and 392 HEMI engines also both use cast iron blocks with aluminum heads.

We’ll avoid spoiling all of the details regarding horsepower and torque for now. Of course, the 6.4 HEMI is the more capable engine. Its larger displacement and output give it the edge. There is more to look at regarding 5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI power and torque curves. This topic will come up in a few sections when we discuss performance.

*2009+ 5.7 HEMI engines went through a fairly big update. MDS and variable valve timing were two of the major updates. 6.4 HEMI engines use this technology, too. Point is – the older 345 HEMI’s are a bit different since they lack this tech.

What Cars Use These Engines?

6.4 vs 5.7 HEMI engines are in the following years and models:

As shown above – the 5.7 HEMI is an engine option in a few models that do not offer the 6.4L engine. It’s also the older engine dating back to 2003 while the 6.4 HEMI didn’t come out until 2011. However, Chrysler did offer the 6.4L since 2007 as a crate engine with the name 392 HEMI.

Anyway, the common them is that the 5.7 is a base engine in many models with the R/T badge. On the other hand, 6.4 HEMI engines often receive the SRT8, SRT, and 392 Scat Pack designations.

5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI V8 Performance

Writing engine comparison guides can be challenging. Most engines are found in various models and years – as with these two HEMI engines. The following theme will apply to much of this article: it’s tough to get specific on a model and year basis. As such, we won’t be diving into 0-60, 1/4 mile times, or other specific performance factors.

There is still plenty to talk about when it comes to 6.4 vs 5.7 HEMI performance, though. The 6.4 HEMI generally offers an extra 75-100 horsepower over the 5.7 engine. Thanks to larger displacement the 392 is also good for an extra 60-80 lb-ft. Low-end torque is also about 70 lb-ft more than the 5.7 further widening the gap between the two. However, power and torque are a smaller difference on Ram trucks as the 392 truck version is tuned for better economy and towing.

There’s no replacement for displacement. Clearly, this saying holds true in the 5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI comparison. These engines share similar design and tech, and the larger displacement HEMI simply has the edge. That’s not to say the 5.7L V8 is a slouch by any means. Rather, if you’re looking for all-out performance or towing then the 6.4 HEMI is the clear pick.

Winner: 6.4L HEMI

Aftermarket Potential

Bear with a few duplicate comments here as it’s the same concept as above. Larger displacement takes the win when it comes to tuning, modding, and aftermarket performance potential. If power and performance are the end goal the Dodge 6.4L V8 is our pick.

We looked at similar mileage 2016 Dodge R/T Challengers with the 5.7 HEMI vs the 6.4 HEMI R/T Scat Pack. The difference in price ranges from about $5,000 to $10,000 with the 392 HEMI the more expensive option (as you likely guessed).

Buy a 345 HEMI, use the left over money on upgrades, and you can certainly end up with the more powerful engine. Now, it’s fair to point out some of the many counter arguments here. Add the same mods to a 6.4L V8 and it will be more powerful. Also, no matter how many upgrades you add to the 5.7 HEMI it will never be the 6.4L.

Aside from all of that – both of these engines have plenty of aftermarket support. It’s not hard to find what you’re looking for whether you choose the 345 or 392 engine. Don’t miss out on our best 5.7 HEMI upgrades and 6.4 HEMI upgrade guides if you’re looking for more info.

Winner: 6.4 HEMI

Dodge 6.4 vs 5.7 HEMI Reliability

Reliability is an easy subject for me to discuss. I wrote in-depth articles about reliability and common engine problems for each engine; the links are just below in the next section for those wanting to learn more. In this article we’ll just scrape the surface and discuss some of the basics.

The 6.4 and 5.7 HEMI both offer good reliability overall. As with any engine, they’re prone to their share of problems and failures. We think both engines deserve average to above average remarks for reliability. Don’t expect Honda or Toyota-like maintenance and repairs, though.

Keep in mind we’re talking about performance engines. Repairs tend to be a bit more expensive when problems do occur. Basic maintenance items can also be pricier.

Which one is better, though? It’s impossible to say for sure. It’s likely the 6.4 HEMI vs 5.7 HEMI will offer similar reliability. Most of it simply comes down to maintenance and luck of the draw. Some 6.4L engines hold up beyond 300,000 miles while others die much sooner. The same can be said for the Dodge 345 too.

Winner: Tie

Engine Problems

Issues between the two engines are pretty similar. Keep in mind – problems may appear worse or more common on the 5.7L V8. It’s the older and more popular engine on the road. As such, there’s more info out there for the 5.7 HEMI which can make problems seem more widespread. On the contrary, there are more high mileage 345’s out there.

Ultimately, both engines share many of the same common problems – such as the HEMI Multi-Displacement System (MDS). As stated previously, these engines offer similar reliability and which one is better often comes down to maintenance and some luck of the draw. Anyway, check out the below articles for more information on some common engine problems:

345 HEMI Engine Problems

392 HEMI Engine Problems

5.7 vs 6.4 Hemi Price

In the section about aftermarket performance we touched on 5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI price briefly. The price difference when looking at similar model, trim, age, mileage, etc remains around the $5,000 to $10,000 mark. It doesn’t always hold true since there can be other factors that affect price. Regardless, the 5.7 HEMI is generally the cheaper option.

Additionally, 5.7 HEMI engines have been around since 2003. There isn’t a way to make a fair comparison with the 6.4L V8 in this case. It just means the 5.7 is the budget friendly option even if it means buying an older car. The age and higher production also do the 345 HEMI favors when it comes to parts, replacement engines, so on.

Winner: 5.7 HEMI

345 vs 392 HEMI Fuel Economy/MPG

This is a pretty quick topic since it’s impossible to get extremely specific. 5.7 vs 6.4 HEMI fuel economy depends on many individual factors. Year, model, drivetrain, conditions, driving habit, etc all play major roles. That said, the 5.7 HEMI engine will deliver better fuel economy if all else is equal.

There are situations where the 6.4 HEMI actually provides better MPG than the 5.7L engine, though. Does the Dodge car or truck have MDS technology? Some Dodge 5.7 HEMI engines have this tech while others do not. A 392 equipped with MDS vs a 345 without MDS is a different story.

Nonetheless, we could go on all day debating which engine in which configuration provides better fuel economy. However, the point remains. The smaller 345 cubic inch engine should deliver better MPG – all else equal.

Winner: 5.7 HEMI

Towing Capacity

Vague concepts continue when it comes to 6.4 vs 5.7 HEMI towing capacity. There are too many configurations that affect towing as much or more than the specific engine. Anyway, you guessed it. Dodge 6.4 HEMI’s are the better option when it comes to towing.

Not only does it offer more power and torque, but it’s also better tuned for towing. Low-end torque is a big improvement on the 392 cubic inch engine. It’s generally going to offer the most towing capacity and pull similar weights with more ease. Although, the 5.7 V8 isn’t a slouch and may be more than enough for many.

Winner: 6.4 HEMI

Dodge 345 vs 392 HEMI Summary

Chrysler, Dodge, and Ram offer the 6.4L and 5.7L HEMI engines in many similar models. The engines also share similar design and technology. It makes for a common discussion and comparison between the two. Picking the right engine for you can also be complicated since both engines have plenty to offer.

The saying, “there’s no replacement for displacement” holds true here. Dodge 6.4 V8 HEMI engines simply offer more performance and towing vs the 5.7 HEMI. The 5.7 HEMI takes the win for price, parts availability, and fuel economy. They’re both pretty reliable engines, so that’s a wash.

In summary, if all-out performance or towing capacity is your goal then the 6.4 HEMI is likely the best choice. Those who want a great overall balance of performance, MPG, towing, and price will find joy in the 5.7L V8. Either way, we believe it’s hard to go wrong with the 345 or 392 HEMI engines.

What’s your experience with these engines? Are you considering one?

Leave a comment and let us know!

Planning a beach or desert camping escapade? Well, before you sink your toes into the warm sand, let’s talk about a tiny but essential detail: the best tent stakes for sand. If you think you can use the stakes you normally bring on a camping trip, I’m sorry to say that they’ll refuse to play nice with the shifting sands, and they’ll leave your shelter teetering with every gust of wind. You’ll need something more specialized, which is why we’ve put together a list of our favorite sand stakes. Whether you’re a seasoned sand camper or a newbie ready to dip your toes into this unique experience, we’re sure you’ll find an option that works for you in our review below.

In this article, we’ll be reviewing the following best tent stakes for sand:

• REI Co-op Snow Stake – Editor’s Choice
• Neso Ground Screw Stakes – Best Overall
• Syarme Sand Stakes – Cheapest Stakes
• 7Penn Spiral Ground Anchors – Most Durable Stakes
• Lifeswell Ground Anchors – Best Bang for Your Buck
• Eurmax Spiral Stakes – Most Versatile Stakes

Best Tent Stakes for Sand – Reviewed

Don’t let the name deceive you – while the REI Co-op snow stakes are obviously designed to be used in snow, they work just as well in sand. As someone who’s used them in the desert a number of times, I can personally attest to their effectiveness.These snow stakes are thin and wide, instead of cylindrical like most tent stakes. You’ll notice a number of holes along the length of the shaft, which allow the sand and snow to better lock it in place. While I find that this design isn’t quite as secure as a corkscrew stake, I do tend to prefer this style for sand because of how easy it is to use. The price is pretty reasonable as well. You can get four of them for under $30, though from experience, I can assure you that you’ll want more. Six is the bare minimum that you’ll want, though I would probably go up to eight, just to be safe. And if you’re worried about how much you’ll get weighed down with that many stakes, don’t be. They’re only an ounce a piece, so you can go pretty crazy before the weight starts to become an issue.Pros:– Lightweight- Easy to pack away- Effective in multiple environments- Good price- Simple to useCons:– They lack some of the securing power that you’ll find in a corkscrew

Made from recycled materials, the Neso ground screw stakes are what you want to have if the REI snow stakes mentioned above aren’t your jam. These guys are incredibly durable and stable, though they do take longer to put into place than the snow stakes. You’ll need to use the included T-Grip tool to twist them into place, even if the sand is easier to work with than soil.Still, this is where I tend to find fault with corkscrew stakes. Desert environments get pretty windy around sunset, and if you’re starting to make camp around that time, it can be a hassle to set up your tent. If your stakes take awhile to get into place, you’re going to need an extra set of hands or two to help prevent your shelter from flying away in the wind.I do wish these were a little longer, but they work well enough for most desert and beach camping. They’re also slightly more expensive than the REI snow stakes, but not by much, so price is still fairly budget friendly. For a versatile tent stake that can be used in sand and other ground materials, the Neso ground stakes are definitely worth considering.Pros:– Durable- Fairly easy to use- Good price- Nice security- VersatileCons:– Take longer to get into place

What can I say about the Syarme tent stakes? They’re cheap and you’ll know it when you use them for the first time, but hey, they still get the job done…for the most part.Okay, I’m being a little pessimistic. While they aren’t going to receive my “best overall” award, they truly are a good option for the occasional beach camping trip. You get a good number of them for the price, allowing you to secure the corners or your tent along with any guylines that you want to setup as well. As long as you stay away from severe wind gusts, you shouldn’t have any problems with the Syarme tent stakes.But that’s where my flattery ends. Not only do they feel cheap, but they also don’t come with any tool to help you twist them into the ground. Considering how sharp the plastic is in a number of places, it’s a great way to cut yourself, if you aren’t careful.I’m also unimpressed with the length of the stakes. Since they’re designed to be used in the sand, I would have expected a few more inches of length to really help provide the security that you need when the wind picks up. As it stands, you’ll be fine in low and moderate wind gusts, but in anything stronger, you’ll start to have stakes pulling out of the ground.Pros:– Good value for the cost- Decently secure- A good number come in the pack- Fine for relatively fair-weather campingCons:– No tools to help you secure them- They like to pull out in strong wind

The first set of steel tent stakes for sand in this review, the durability is reason enough for me to like these 7Penn stakes. They are a little more expensive than every other product we’ve mentioned so far, but it can be a worthy tradeoff, depending on how you plan to use them.However, my biggest concern with the steel is how much heavier it is too. A full 5.5 pounds is no laughing matter, so these aren’t the sort of stakes that you want to carry with you long distances. Backpacking is automatically off the table, which leaves you with car camping – probably at the beach. If that doesn’t bother you, then most of my complaints end there.Overall, they’re a versatile set of stakes that can be used on a variety of terrains. Even so, considering they’re screw stakes, you’ll want to make sure the ground is pretty soft, otherwise you’ll have a hard time rooting them in place. Or, if you can find a stick to thread through the eyelet, I find that the extra leverage can help the stake dig into tougher soil.Generally speaking, I feel pretty confident in saying that these are the most heavy-duty tent stakes in this review. If you need that tough, no-nonsense reliability and don’t care about price or weight, these are the ones for you.Pros:– Highly durable- Very sturdy- Pretty reasonable price- Versatile- ReliableCons:– Heavy

For the price, the Lifeswell ground anchors are actually a pretty good deal. They have a decent length, and the securing power is better than most stakes sporting this style. The alloy steel is also quite durable, and since there’s less material than what you’ll find on the CORQUE stakes, they’re not excessively heavy either. While they do still have some heft to them, you could get away with carrying a set of these stakes on a backpacking trip, if you didn’t mind the extra pound or two.Unfortunately, I find that they aren’t as easy to screw into place as the CORQUE or the Neso ground anchors. While those two come with a twist stick to give you a handhold and some leverage, the Lifeswell stakes don’t give you this luxury. Instead, if you want the process to go quickly, you’ll need a drill. Obviously, most of us don’t think to bring a drill while camping (and many of us probably wouldn’t want to anyway), but it can be workable for car campers setting up shop on the beach. Backpackers, I’m sorry to say that these just won’t work for you. While you can twist them by hand, I’d recommend going with a different stake option to save yourself the hassle.Still, if you have a way to twist them into place, these stakes are an incredibly versatile option that can be used in a variety of terrains. Especially for the price, they give you some of the best bang for your buck.Pros:– Good value for the price- Versatile- Secure- Durable- Decent weight for how strong they areCons:– Need a drill to be secured

Though they’re designed to be used for securing trampolines, the Eurmax spiral stakes are a versatile option that work well in sand as well. As we’ve established at this point, the spiral shape is very effective at locking the stake into place, despite the ever-shifting sands. And, while I do wish they were longer, these Eurmax stakes still do a pretty good job of providing adequate stability.Like the Lifeswell anchors mentioned above, you will need a drill in order to screw these into place. As someone who’s done a bit of desert camping, I just can’t get on board with this design for backpacking, due to the inconvenience. Sure, it works well for car camping, but that’s hardly a good enough excuse to label it the “best overall.”Still, for what it’s designed for, the Eurmax does a great job. The alloy steel is quite durable, and while the weight is on the higher end, it’s not too much of a burden for car campers who need a solid set of stakes for sand.Pros:– Durable- Pretty solid- Good for car camping- VersatileCons:– Price- Weight

Best Tent Stakes for Sand – Buyer’s Guide

Size

In sandy terrain, longer tent stakes are going to be your best bet. I’d suggest you aim for stakes that are at least 12 inches in length, as this extra length allows for deeper penetration into the sand, providing better stability for your tent. With longer stakes, you can minimize the risk of your tent getting uprooted by strong winds or shifting sand, giving you peace of mind throughout your camping adventure.Another aspect to keep in mind is the diameter or thickness of the tent stakes. For optimal grip and resistance against sand shifting, look for stakes with a diameter of around 0.4 to 0.5 inches. This size strikes a perfect balance between strength and maneuverability. Not only that, but stakes with a slightly thicker diameter offer better anchoring and minimize the chances of bending or deforming when driven into the sand.

Weight

When you’re dealing with sand, your stakes need to have enough anchoring power to withstand windy conditions and other unusual elements. But at the same time, they shouldn’t be a burden to carry around. After all, who wants to feel weighed down when enjoying a day at the beach or exploring the desert?That’s where lightweight tent stakes come to the rescue. Not only are they easier on your back, but they also make your life much simpler when it comes to setting up camp. That’s not to say that stakes are very heavy – many of them weigh under a pound (and that’s for the whole set), but any backpacker knows that every ounce adds up. Lightweight stakes make your life easier and leave you with more energy to enjoy your surroundings.

Material

When it comes to securing a tent, sand poses a unique challenge due to its loose and shifting nature, making it more difficult for tent stakes to maintain a firm grip. However, with the right material, you can increase your chances of a successful setup.One of the best materials for tent stakes in sandy environments is aluminum. Aluminum tent stakes are lightweight, which makes them easy to carry in your backpack, and their durability ensures they won’t bend or break easily. The smooth surface of aluminum stakes allows them to slide into the sand with less effort, providing a solid anchor for your tent (assuming they have holes along their length, or they sport a corkscrew design). Additionally, aluminum is resistant to corrosion, so you don’t have to worry about rust even if you frequently camp near coastal areas.Another popular option for sandy terrains is titanium tent stakes. Although titanium stakes can be a bit more expensive than aluminum, they offer several advantages. Titanium is incredibly lightweight, making it ideal for backpackers who value every ounce of weight in their gear. These stakes also have excellent strength-to-weight ratio, allowing them to withstand the forces exerted by the sand. And like aluminum, titanium is also highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring longevity and reliability in sandy conditions.But both of these materials can get expensive pretty quickly, especially titanium. So for those of you who are looking for a more budget-friendly option, plastic tent stakes can be a viable choice. While not as durable as aluminum or titanium, plastic stakes can still perform well in softer sand. They are lightweight, affordable, and less likely to cause damage to your tent if accidentally stepped on. However, it’s important to note that plastic stakes may not withstand strong winds or very compact sand as effectively as their metal counterparts.

Shape

Traditional stakes, commonly known as “Y” or “V” stakes, have been the go-to option for many campers. These stakes feature a simple design with a single or double pointy end, and while they work well in various terrains, they may not be the most suitable choice for sandy surfaces. The reason behind this lies in their shape and smoothness, which makes them prone to slipping out of loose sand.To tackle this challenge, tent stake manufacturers have introduced specialized stakes designed explicitly for sandy environments. One popular option is the “sand anchor” stake, which has a unique spiral shape, resembling an auger or corkscrew. The spiral design allows them to twist deeper into the sand, providing a more secure hold. They are especially effective in preventing your tent from getting uprooted during strong gusts of wind.The kind that I use, though, are the REI Co-op snow stakes mentioned above. Since snow and sand are so similar, if you find a stake that works well in one condition, it will almost certainly work well in the other. As far as the snow stakes go, you’ll notice that they have a relatively flat shape which is marked with holes. Snow (and sand) will fill in these holes, providing the grip you need to secure your tent.

Pack Size

A final tip… Make sure you know how many stakes you’re getting in a pack. Especially when buying online, some stakes are sold individually while others are sold as a bunch, so make sure you know how many you need (and how many you’re getting) before you hit that “Add to cart” button.

At Untamed Space, we’re passionate about helping you have the best camping experience possible. Our team of experts have experience camping and backpacking all over the world, allowing them to provide insightful and relevant content to guide you in your outdoor pursuits.All of our reviews are based on a combination of firsthand experience, extensive research, and an analysis of customer feedback. We are an independent website and do not receive payments or incentives from manufacturers to promote their products, and we continuously update our content to provide new information based on product availability. Wherever you are in your journey, whatever gear you’re searching for, you can be sure to find unbiased and up-to-date reviews for all of your needs.

FAQ

Final Thoughts

When it comes to choosing the best tent stakes for sand, certain key features can make a world of difference in ensuring a secure and worry-free camping experience. Sand poses unique challenges due to its loose nature, which means you need stakes with very specific characteristics.On the whole, we believe the Neso Ground Screw Stakes stand out as an exceptional choice, checking the most boxes with their secure design. With their durable construction, impressive length, and spiral shape, these stakes provide optimal security and stability on sandy surfaces. Their ease of use and ability to withstand challenging conditions make them a top contender for any beach or desert camping adventure.

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These bright fungi are rather unusual looking, and if you’re trying them for the first time, you may be a little skeptical about their edibility.

But they’re extremely popular with foragers, very versatile in the kitchen and many people consider them the best mushroom to substitute for chicken.

So, if you’re looking for a healthy vegetarian alternative to chicken and live in an area where they thrive, these may be the perfect mushrooms for you.

Read on to learn more about chicken of the woods mushrooms, including where they grow, how to correctly identify them, what they taste like and how to harvest, store, clean and cook them.

What Are Chicken of The Woods Mushrooms?

Chicken of the woods mushrooms are striking, brightly-colored edible mushrooms that grow on old, dying or dead trees.

They’re the fruiting bodies of polypore, bracket fungi and appear in large tiered clusters of bright yellow to orange mushrooms with fan-shaped caps.

They’re occasionally parasitic on elderly trees where they cause brown rot, but usually saprotrophic, feeding on dead and decaying hardwood trees.

There are several species of chicken of the woods mushrooms that vary slightly in color and taste. Three of the most common are Laetiporus sulphureus, Laetiporus cincinnatus and Laetiporus gilbertsonii.

All three produce delicious edible mushrooms that look similar but grow on different trees.

Like other mushrooms, chicken of the woods has several names, including sulfur shelf or chicken mushrooms, sulfur shelf fungus or chicken fungus.

Can You Eat Chicken of the Woods Mushroom?

Yes, you can eat chicken of the woods, and it gets its name from the fact that its dense fibrous flesh has a texture very similar to cooked chicken.

Where Does Chicken of the Woods Grow?

Chicken of the woods grow in deciduous woodlands, and you’ll find them in a range of woodland habitats, including the edges of natural forests and urban parks and gardens.

They’re widespread in the United Kingdom, North America, and Europe and are most often found growing on trunks or stumps of deciduous hardwood trees like oaks, maples and beeches.

But you’ll sometimes find them growing on willow, wild cherry, sweet chestnut, eucalyptus and yew.

Laetiporus sulphureus and Laetiporus cincinnatus enjoy oak and beech trees, while Laetiporus gilbertsonii is usually found on oak or eucalyptus trees.

Some mycologists advise against harvesting chicken of the woods mushrooms that grow on yew trees as they could absorb the toxic alkaloids found in the yew tree. But others report having eaten these mushrooms without incident.

Is Chicken of the Woods Hard to Find?

Chicken of the woods are not hard to find, but although they’re brightly colored, easy to identify and relatively common, it’s not always as easy to find them at the right stage for eating, and you have to know where to look.

They grow best on dead and dying oak trees and enjoy humid, low-lying locations and cool temperatures. But can be unpredictable and will fruit throughout the year when conditions are favorable.

Usually, the best time to find them is fall, but foragers report coming across them anywhere from late spring through to fall, especially after heavy rains.

You’ll often find chicken of the woods growing on the same tree or log year after year until the fungus has fully decomposed the wood.

So once you have found a flush of chicken of the woods mushrooms, you can return to the same spot the following year when conditions are right and will hopefully discover more.

Where to Buy Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

If the thought of finding and identifying chicken of the woods mushrooms in the wild is intimidating, don’t worry.

Chicken of the woods mushrooms are sought after, and in many places, you’ll find fresh chicken of the woods at local farmer’s markets or specialty food stores.

Some CSA projects also offer foraged or homegrown mushrooms as part of their weekly food parcel and may include chicken of the woods.

How to Identify Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

Chicken of the woods are very striking and have few look-alikes making them an ideal species for beginner mushroom foragers.

They grow in overlapping layers, resemble small wavy shelves and vary in appearance from smooth to finely wrinkled.

Their broad fan-shaped caps can get very big and range from 2 to 12 inches (5 to 30 cm) across, with a velvet or suede-like feel when young that becomes leathery as they mature.

Chicken of the woods are polypores, meaning they do not have gills. Instead, the underside of their caps have lots of tiny tubes that look like pores, and these produce their spores.

Chicken of the woods mushrooms don’t have stems, the brackets emerge directly from the tree, but they sometimes have short pseudo or “false stems” that are actually part of the cap.

Their color varies from species to species, and as they mature, their bright colors fade and change, becoming tan or light brown.

The upper surface of Laetiporus sulphureus, often called the sulfur shelf mushroom, is orange-red to orange-yellow, usually with bright yellow wavy edges. The underside is bright sulfurous yellow with tiny pores.

Laetiporus cincinnatus, also known as the white-pored chicken of the woods, has a pale pinkish to peachy colored upper surface, and the underside is white with tiny pores.

The upper surface of Laetiporus gilbertsonii is pale pinkish orange or orangish-yellow, and the pore surface varies from lemon-yellow to pale lemon-yellow.

Chicken of the Woods vs. Hen of the Woods

Chicken of the woods and Hen of the woods are very different mushrooms. And although they’re not look-alikes, their similar names often cause confusion.

Hen of the woods or maitake is a delicious edible polypore mushroom that grows in clusters at the base of hardwood trees. And like some chicken of the woods prefers oaks.

But this is where the similarity ends.

Hen of the woods mushrooms have flattened brown caps with white edges and get their name from the fact that the dense cluster of mushrooms resembles the ruffled feathers of a sitting hen.

Chicken of the woods is brightly colored, looks nothing like a hen and gets its name because, when cooked, its taste and texture are similar to chicken meat.

Hen of the woods mushrooms taste nothing like chicken and have a rich earthy aroma and taste and unique texture.

How to Harvest Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

It’s easiest to harvest chicken of the woods with a sharp knife, but some foragers pull the entire cluster off the tree.

Pulling often results in more wood particles and dirt that you’ll have to clean off the mushrooms later. It also damages the decomposing wood, which may result in fewer mushrooms the following year.

With a sharp knife you can harvest the entire cluster by cutting it off at the base or trim tender bits off the edges of mature caps.

Harvesting chicken of the woods mushrooms at the right stage is important if you want to eat them fresh.

When is the Best Time to Harvest Chicken of the Woods?

The best time to harvest chicken of the woods mushrooms is when they are still young, with vibrant colors and a firm, slightly spongy texture.

They grow fast and can get past their prime in as little as 2 to 3 days, so if you find young chicken of the woods, it’s best to harvest them the same day or come back the following day.

Immature chicken of the woods mushrooms appear from dead trees as bumpy cyst-like knobs and a few days later start forming brackets.

They’re most tender before the brackets form. If you find them at this stage, it’s the perfect time to harvest them.

Prime edible chicken of the woods usually have brackets less than 8 inches (20cm) across with moist flesh, bright colors and a pleasant mushroomy smell. When crushed, they exude a watery, yellowish liquid.

As they mature and their brackets expand, the center part becomes tougher, but the outer edges remain tender. They also often become hosts to bugs and worms that enjoy their flesh.

At this stage, some foragers feel it’s best to cut off any soft sections on the edges and leave the rest for the bugs. But others harvest the entire cluster and use any tough sections to make a deciduous, savory chicken of the woods mushroom powder.

When a chicken of the woods reaches full maturity, the entire mushroom becomes tough and woody, and the colors fade.

At this stage it’s way past its prime and probably best left in the woods, although some people still use mature chicken of the woods for mushroom powder.

Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Look-Alikes

Chicken of the woods is one of the easiest mushroom species to identify, and there are no false chicken of the woods mushrooms.

Although some bright mushrooms may look similar from a distance, it’s easy to tell them apart when you get closer.

Bright yellow to orange mushrooms that grow in similar conditions are delicious edible chanterelles, parasitic honey mushrooms and toxic jack-o-lanterns.

But none of these mushrooms are bracket fungi, and they all have gills, so a quick look at the underside of their caps will quickly remove any confusion.

There is one polypore fungus, Phaeolus schweinitzii, that people sometimes confuse with chicken of the woods. It’s called the velvet-top fungus or dyer’s polypore.

It grows in similar conditions to chicken of the woods and, when young, is often bright yellow or orange, but the upper surface of the fan-shaped cap is velvety brown in the center.

The velvet-top fungus is not poisonous. But it’s also not edible as it has a very tough texture. People use these mushrooms to make natural green, yellow, gold, or brown fabric dyes, hence their second name.

Can You Grow Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms at Home?

You can grow chicken of the woods mushrooms at home, both indoors on sawdust blocks and outdoors on logs.

They’re one of the more challenging species to grow indoors, as colonization takes a very long time.

Because of this, indoor cultivation is usually only recommended for experienced growers who’ll enjoy the challenge.

But, if you have a shady spot in your garden, it’s easy to grow them outdoors on large-diameter logs and stumps. They prefer oak but will grow on most hardwood logs.

To inoculate the logs or stumps, you’ll need to drill holes in them, insert plug spawn or sawdust spawn and seal the holes with wax.

It takes six months to a year from when you inoculate your logs for the first flush of mushrooms. But then you should get mushrooms from your logs for another 3 to 5 years.

Our ultimate guide to growing mushrooms on logs takes you through this process step-by-step.

What Does Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Taste Like?

Chicken of the woods mushrooms have a mild flavor with lemony undertones that people describe as similar to chicken, lobster or crab.

But it’s their sinewy texture, so similar to succulent cooked chicken meat, that gives them their name and makes them a great meat replacement in vegetarian and vegan dishes.

Like other mushrooms, chicken of the woods absorbs liquids well and will take on the flavors of other ingredients in dishes.

Can You Eat Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Raw?

You should not eat raw chicken of the woods mushrooms as they may cause stomach problems.

In fact, chefs advise cooking them thoroughly and, if necessary, boiling them before sauteing them to ensure they’re cooked through.

Some people are allergic to chicken of the woods mushrooms even when well cooked.

As with any mushroom you’re eating for the first time, it’s best to try a small portion first to see if you have any allergic reactions.

How to Clean Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

If you’ve harvested an entire cluster of chicken of the woods, the first step is to separate the brackets and trim off any woody bits, bruises and insect damage.

Chicken of the woods growing at the base of tree trunks can sometimes get extremely dirty. Foragers recommend brushing them gently with a soft-bristle brush or wiping them with a damp cloth to remove any loose dust and debris.

You can also rinse them under cold running water to remove stubborn dirt. Then pat them dry with a clean paper or kitchen towel. Avoid soaking chicken of the woods as they’ll absorb a lot of water and become soggy.

Our article, “How to Clean Mushrooms: A Step-by-Step Guide,” has more information on the best ways to clean mushrooms.

How to Store Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

Here are three of the easiest ways to store your chicken of the woods mushrooms:

1. In the Refrigerator

You can store fresh chicken of the woods for 7 to 10 days in the refrigerator in a paper bag or breathable fabric bag, but there are a few things to remember to help them last longer:

• Store them on a shelf in your fridge, not in the crisper drawer.
• Take care not to place them next to strong-smelling foods.
• Avoid putting anything on top of them, as young mushrooms bruise easily.

Also, do not wash your chicken of the woods until just before you plan on using them.

2. In the Freezer

Because chicken of the woods often grows in large groups of several clusters, you’ll often end up with more than you can fit in your fridge or eat in a week.

In cases like this, you need long-term storage solutions, and freezing and drying are the best options for chicken of the woods.

Unlike most other mushrooms that need cooking before freezing, raw chicken of the woods freezes well and retains its meaty texture when defrosted.

To store chicken of the woods in the freezer, first trim and clean them and pat them dry or place them on a kitchen towel to dry.

Ensure they’re dry before freezing them because if you freeze them wet, they won’t retain their texture, and you’ll end up with soft mushy mushrooms.

Place the clean, dry chicken of the woods into ziplock bags or vacuum pack them and then freeze them. They’ll last for up to a year in the freezer.

3. Drying

If you plan on using your chicken of the woods in soups and stews, then drying them is also an excellent way to preserve them long term.

Trim, wash and dry your mushrooms, then slice them into half-inch (1.3 cm) pieces and dry them in a food dehydrator. Once dry, you can store them in an airtight jar or ziplock bag. They’ll last a year or more when kept in a cool and dry location.

You can also blend or grind your dried mushrooms to make chicken of the woods mushrooms powder for seasoning dishes. This is the best way to use older mushrooms that are too tough to eat but still have lots of flavor.

How to Cook Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms

Like other mushrooms, chicken of the woods is very versatile with many culinary applications.

You can fry, saute, blanch, roast or bake chicken of the woods and use them as you would other mushrooms or as a substitute for chicken or tofu in recipes.

What is Chicken of the Woods Mushroom Good For?

One of the easiest ways to enjoy the flavor and texture of these mushrooms is to sauté them in olive oil with garlic, shallots, white wine and fresh herbs.

But they also work well in pasta dishes, curries, casseroles, risottos and egg-based dishes like quiches, omelets and frittatas.

Below is a chicken of the woods mushroom recipe that really makes the most of their similarity to chicken meat.

And to provide more inspiration, we have put together 30 of our favorite mushroom recipes as well as 25 delicious vegan mushroom recipes.

Crispy Fried Chicken of the Woods Recipe

This recipe, adapted from the Forager Chef, uses the traditional chicken fried steak recipe to create tender, juicy mushroom steaks with a crispy outer coating.

You can serve these delicious steaks with any sauce and your choice of vegetables, creating endless possibilities.

Ingredients

• 4 pieces of young chicken of the woods, around 2 oz (57 grams) or the size of a smallish fist
• 1 cup all-purpose flour or as needed for breading.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1 pinch of sweet paprika
• 1 small pinch of cayenne pepper
• 3 eggs beaten
• 4 tablespoons of cooking oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• A few sprigs of fresh thyme (optional)
• 1 small clove of garlic, crushed (optional)
• Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Trim off the tough parts of your chicken of the woods mushrooms, rinse and dry them well, as this helps the seasonings adhere.
2. In a bowl, combine the flour with salt, pepper, paprika and cayenne to taste, and place the beaten eggs in another bowl.
3. Toss the mushrooms first in flour, then in egg, then in flour again.
4. Heat a pan and add the cooking oil and butter. When the butter has melted, add your breaded chicken of the woods, the crushed clove of garlic, and the thyme.
5. Sauté the chicken of the woods until they are golden brown on each side, about 4-5 minutes, adding extra oil or butter if the pan gets dry.
6. When ready, remove the mushrooms from the pan, quickly blot them on a paper towel to remove excess oil, sprinkle with salt and serve immediately.

Health and Nutritional Benefits of Chicken of the Woods

Like many other mushrooms, chicken of the woods is high in protein and digestive fiber and low in fat, making it a healthy meat replacement.

It’s also a good source of potassium, vitamin C and vitamin A.

The nutritional value of chicken of the woods varies depending on the environment and growing conditions.

But studies on the nutritional value and chemical composition of chicken of the woods show that, on average, a 100g serving contains:

• 6 g of dietary fiber
• 21g of Protein
• 2g of fat
• 150mg of potassium

Chicken of the woods also contains numerous bioactive compounds with antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties.

Final Thoughts

Chicken of the woods are delicious, edible mushrooms that are more often foraged than cultivated.

If you’re fortunate enough to live somewhere they grow, you could find fresh chicken of the woods in the wild, at your local farmers market or even grow them outdoors on logs.

Because they often grow in large clumps, you’ll have enough mushrooms to last a while and can store them in the freezer for a year-round supply of tender, meaty mushroom steaks.

To learn more about mushrooms and how they grow, visit our Mushroom Education Hub.

And if you’re hoping to grow mushrooms at home, our Mushroom Growing Hub has loads of valuable resources to help you get started.

Scoring an impressive 247 4/8’s this monster was not brought down by a hunter

“Michigan’s Biggest Buck” is a very powerful statement. The current Michigan record is a buck shot with a firearm in 1976 by Paul M. Mickey that scores 238 2/8 Non-Typical, Boone & Crockett points. The buck in the pictures accompanying this article has an amazing gross green score of 257 2/8 and a green net score of 247 4/8! If this score holds up, it will blow way past this long standing record by nearly 10 inches.

This new buck cannot officially be recognized as the state record until April 6, at which time it will be eligible for an official panel-score. The current tallies came about when Commemorative Bucks of Michigan scorer, Dennis Sheets measured the massive headgear accompanying this buck. These scores are considered “green” because the current record keeping systems require a 60 day period of “drying” after the antlers are acquired.

This impressive buck was not brought down by a hunter but rather it was found dead by Sharon Weidmayer while she was taking her dog “Camy” for a walk through some overgrown pasture land. Ms. Weidmayer found the buck on February 7, 2010 and informed her hunting friend Ron Waldron of her find and asked him to come and get the deer.

Two days later, Sharon took Ron to the dead animal. When Ron saw the monstrous buck he exclaimed in jest, “That’s not a deer, that’s an elk.”

Ron could not wait to show the antlers to his son-in-law/hunting partner, Mike Guenther. As soon as Mike saw the trophy he knew they had something really special and contacted the authorities to acquire a permit to own the deer.

This buck has 26 scoreable points and carries an incredible 29 inch inside-spread, and main beams that measure 31 inches. The deer was found dead in Clinton, Michigan which is in Lenawee County. This is the same county that produced the 200 class buck taken by Jeremy Collingsworth during the 2009 archery season and was featured on the cover of the January 2010 issue of Woods-N-Water News.

Mr. Guenther reports that the big buck that his father-in-law brought home hadn’t been dead for very long. The deer had been eaten by coyotes but the eyes were intact and the meat remained red. The cause of death is unknown but there were no visible holes or broken bones. The jaw and teeth wear indicate maybe a 4 ½ year old deer.

Ironically, another 4 ½ year old deer that was also found dead is the world record non-typical buck. This deer is known as the “Missouri Monarch” and scores 333 7/8. The highest scoring buck killed by a hunter was shot with a muzzleloader by 15 year-old Tony Lovstuen in Iowa and scores 319 4/8.

The highest scoring Michigan non-typical taken by hunters include the aforementioned Mickey buck which also holds the firearm record at 238 2/8. Aaron M. Davis has the archery record with a Hillsdale County buck that scores 225 7/8. Calhoun County is the home of the state record muzzleloader buck shot by Tim Tackett and it scores 215 1/8. The handgun record is held by Carl Mattson with a score of 218 1/8.

Mike Guenther states that Sharon also found the previous year’s shed from the buck’s right side and that the brow tine curls the same and it even has matching “sticker” points. Guenther goes on to say that the buck put on a lot of mass since the previous year.

When word spread of their great discovery over 200 people toured their pole barn to view the spectacular trophy. Ron and Mike are passionate hunters themselves and are “quite glad to be able to share such a wonderful buck with the public.”

Whether you are hunting a cool fall morning or hunting a severe and brutal winter, you don’t have to worry about that as a hunter. Instead, make every effort you can to choose the best hunting clothing for your hunting conditions.

There is no limit to the number of players in the marketplace when it comes to hunting clothing. However, for any serious hunters out there. When it comes to quality, there are only a few hunting clothing brands that are worth their weight in gold.

We’ve covered the Top 7 Hunting Clothing Brands (In Our Opinion – Which is all that counts, right?)

Full Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. If you follow an affiliate link and end up making a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

1. KUIU

When it comes to hunting gear, no brand has garnered as much popularity and recognition in recent years as KUIU. Renowned for its extensive range of cutting-edge equipment, including high-performance clothing, durable packs, and a diverse selection of accessories, KUIU stands out from the competition.

KUIU’s unwavering commitment to unparalleled quality and innovation sets it apart. With advanced materials and state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques, their gear exceeds industry standards. Their exceptional clothing ensures optimal performance, from temperature-regulating base layers to waterproof outer shells. Additionally, KUIU offers reliable packs and a comprehensive range of accessories to enhance your hunting experience. With KUIU, you not only get superior gear but also exceptional customer service from a team of knowledgeable experts.

What Sets KUIU Apart From Its Competitors?

KUIU’s top technology lies in its innovative use of Toray fabric. This high-performance material, developed in collaboration with the renowned Japanese textile manufacturer Toray, sets KUIU gear apart. The Toray fabric offers exceptional durability, lightweight comfort, impressive breathability, moisture-wicking capabilities, and wind resistance.

It also provides excellent water repellency, ensuring hunters stay dry and comfortable in wet environments. By incorporating Toray fabric, KUIU enhances the overall performance, mobility, and endurance of their gear, allowing hunters to focus on the thrill of the hunt with confidence.

Shop for all your KUIU clothing needs today!

2. Sitka

Sitka has to be one of the most well-known and most talked about hunting clothing brands around the world. They’ve been in the hunting clothing business for many years and have clothed some of the best well-known hunters in the world.

Whether you’re an experienced hunter with years of hunting to your credit or just starting to really get into the hunting spirit, one thing that every hunter knows is the importance of having all the necessary hunting gear, and the right hunting clothing for the hunting conditions you may face.

We all know that the right pair of hunting pants, and the right hunting jacket will get us through any weather condition we might encounter. There’s also no doubt that a solid comfortable pair of hunting boots are necessary for a successful hunt, so knowing the top hunting clothing brands are a key to having an enjoyable and successful hunting trip.

What Sets Sitka Apart From Its Competitors?

SITKA Gear understands the value of technology and how to use it to benefit the hunters their brand serves.

Sitka Hunting Clothing is made to withstand the toughest hunting conditions. That’s why they choose to employ such technologies as, GORE-TEX®, GORE-TEX INFINIUM with WINDSTOPPER®, Polygiene and PrimaLoft®. These high-tech materials allow them to provide hunters with only the best hunting apparel on the market today.

Shop for all your Sitka Gear clothing needs today!

3. Drake Waterfowl

Drake is another hunting clothing brand that has created a wide variety of hunting gear that is very popular with duck hunters. However, Drake Waterfowl hunting clothing is fast becoming a favorite with big game hunters. Drake Waterfowl offers everything a hunter could need ranging from hunting clothing, to hunting bags, and even hunting accessories.

What Sets Drake Apart From Its Competitors?

One very unique thing about Drake Waterfowl hunting clothing is that they produce a variety of different hunting clothes series, each hunting clothes series has been created to address the special hunting conditions and circumstances the hunter might find themselves in while hunting.

For example, Drake hunting clothing has a full line-up of hunting jackets, vests, hunting pants, duck waders, and hoodies. All of their hunting clothing uses a lot of different fabrics with different camouflage patterns that will provide a hunter with full concealment, weather protection, and temperature regulation. All of which is very important for a comfortable and successful hunt.

Shop for all your Drake Waterfowl clothing needs today!

4. Kryptek Hunting Clothing

Kryptek is a hunting clothing brand based in the USA and specializes in producing very tactical clothing for hunters. It was also one of the first brands to earn the title of top hunting gear brand in the world.

Kryptek employs military-grade features in their hunting clothing and is the perfect way to really distinguish yourself from other hunters by sporting a top hunting clothing brand.

Kryptek features military-style camouflage patterns, and other features that can provide maximum stealth and concealment for hunters. The features of Kryptek hunting clothes help hunters not only blend into their surroundings, but it’s nearly one step away from allowing them to totally disappear.

What Sets Kryptek Apart From Its Competitors?

Hands down its Kryptek’s micro and macro layering camo design technology, which creates a camo pattern that provides a unique 3-D appearance to the hunting clothing. Creating a unique camo pattern can be done in many ways, but Kryptek has come up with the best and most effective way to do so.

Kryptek was founded by a great group of fellas with a long history of military experience. The group at Kryptek took what they learned from actively engaging in some of the most hostile combat environments. Then tailored what they learned and the knowledge from those experiences into a proven tactical camo pattern, tested it with top military professionals and hunters. Then built that into every aspect of their hunting clothing to perform in all potential hunting environments. Making for one of the best hunting clothing brands around the globe.

Shop for all your Krptek clothing needs today!

5. Banded

If you are a waterfowl hunter there is no doubt that you have heard of the hunting clothing brand, Banded. Banded is one of the most well-known and top-notch hunting clothing brands within the waterfowl hunting space.

Banded hunting clothing not only combines comfort. But also, high performance, too. Banded offers a delicate blend of high-performance fabric and technology features in their hunting clothing. This makes owning and buying their hunting clothing a great idea.

What Sets Banded Apart From Its Competitors?

Banded has already earned its reputation, as the world leader in quality duck hunting apparel. But now the hunting brand is shaking things up in the deer hunting space, as well. With the creation of its ultra-lightweight hunting clothing line. Banded ultra-lightweight hunting clothing offers spring turkey hunters, and early season deer hunters with a quality clothing experience. The clothing line was created for those warmer early-season hunts that many other hunting brands fall short to address.

The Banded ultra-lightweight series was designed with spring and warm weather hunting seasons in mind. The durable poly blend fabric of the hunting clothing is breathable and has a 4-way stretch for easy movement. Banded hunting clothing also features dual layers that were added to protect hunters from early morning dew.

Shop for all your Banded clothing needs today!

6. Mossy Oak Camo

Since 1986, Mossy Oak has been a forerunner and trendsetting in the hunting community and one of the best hunting camo brand among hunters near and far. Over the years Mossy Oak has created literally dozens of unique, industry-leading camo hunting patterns that closely resemble the natural environment and seamlessly blend hunters into their surroundings better than any camouflage in history.

What Sets Mossy Oak Apart From Its Competitors?

Powered by advanced photorealistic 3D imagery, cutting-edge concealment technologies and the most effective designs for every species and season, they’re proven in the field by three decades of successful hunts — and by millions of loyal hunters.

Mossy Oak has become the number one camouflage pattern in America by being consistently innovative and introducing new patterns that are always a surprise and a hit. Furthermore, it’s highly touted as the best hunting clothing for the money.

From camo prints, tactical camos, outdoor camo styles for hunting clothing, to even casual clothing styles for work and field. Mossy Oak makes camouflage a statement with camouflage clothing for all seasons, all occasions, and all lifestyles.

Shop for all your Mossy Oak clothing needs today!

7. Badlands

If you’re a hunter that is always looking for a cutting-edge hunting clothing brand that likes to push the envelope – Badlands is the right choice! Badlands hunting clothing offers a great balance of technology, performance, and quality that other hunting clothing brands try to live up to. Ensuring that customers are 100% satisfied is the number one priority of Badlands.

What Sets Badlands Apart From Its Competitors?

Badlands hunting clothing offers a decent selection of men’s hunting clothing ranging from hunting jackets, hunting pants & bibs along with lifestyle apparel such as hoodies, tee shirts, hats, and more.

Badlands has some special selections of camo patterns in their hunting clothing lineup. Such camo patterns include their Approach and Approach FX. Hunting clothing can be found in these camo patterns under their Whitetail, Big Game, Turkey, and Upland Collections.

Badlands hunting clothing uses something they call, “Adaptive Coloration” in their hunting camo patterns. Their Approach and Approach FX camouflage patterns are made up of neutral colors, so they can adapt to a variety of different terrains and weather conditions.

Badlands Approach and Approach FX camo patterns use pattern design and coloration technology which allows their camo patterns to seamlessly blend into the natural surroundings – which makes Badlands camo deadly!

Shop for all your Badlands clothing needs today!

In Conclusion

Hunting is not just about the thrill of a hunt, but also how you dress for it. The right hunting clothes can make all the difference in your hunting success and enjoyment.

If you follow the advice given, we guarantee that every hunting trip you go on will find you dressed for hunting success. So, now move forward, select your new hunting clothing and go hunting!

Read more about Best Hunting Boot Brands if you have a free second!

Antique fishing lures can be worth a good amount of money – some have sold for as much as $100,000.

There are plenty of collectors out there looking to add to their collection, whether they are fairly common antique lures, or the rarest of the rare.

In this post, we will take a look at the most valuable lures out there and talk about their history, and how much they could be worth.

What is the Most Valuable Antique Lure in the World?

The most expensive lure in the world is the giant Copper Haskell Minnow. This lure was patented by Riley Haskell in 1859 and is a prime example of lures used in the very early years of recreational fishing in America.

The Copper Haskell Minnow is a very rare lure, but there is only one known example of the giant copper Haskell minnow size, and this single example, coupled with the fact that all Haskell minnows are very rare, led to the lure selling at auction for $100,000 dollars.

What Other Antique Lures are Highly Valuable?

Musky Charmer Minnow

There are several types of lures that are worth a good chunk of change in the charmer lure line, but the Musky Charmer Minnow is the rarest and most sought after of all charmer lures.

The Musky Charmer Minnow comes in at 5 inches in length, being the largest of all charmer minnows, and there are only a few known to be in existence today.

The paint scheme with stripes on the rear section of the lure is particularly rare, with only one known to exist, and recently, this one-of-a-kind vintage fishing lure sold for $25,000 at auction in 2018.

Heddon Black Sucker

Heddon has made tons of popular lure designs over a long period of time, and in fact, Heddon still produces some of its classic lure designs to this day.

The Heddon Black Sucker is a fishing lure that is worth quite a bit of money if you manage to get your hands on a quality example.

The Black Sucker is a 6-inch wooden bait with glass eyes, a non-movable intact tail, and a front prop spinner.

The lures typically feature a natural scale paint job and, as with most valuable lures for years passed, are very rare. One of these lures in great condition sold at auction for $19,000 dollars in 2006.

Heddon Mohawk Minnow

You will see the name Heddon a few times in this list, and that’s because Heddon was one of, if not the, top lure brand in the fishing early recreational fishing industry.

The Mohawk minnow was produced in the early 1900s and features a front and rear propeller arrangement and excellent color patterns.

If this lure comes with the Heddon paperwork and box and is in exquisite condition, you could find yourself selling it at auction for as much as $18,000 dollars, as someone found out when one sold for $18,400 in 2013.

1905 Smith Minnow Wiggletail

The Wiggletail is a very unusual-looking mechanical vintage lure that makes you scratch your head when you first look at it.

The mechanical tail design certainly makes it stand out among other tackle from the period, and it is a very rare find, with only ten examples known to exist today.

In 2015 one of these steampunk-Esque-looking lures sold for a decent chunk of change at auction 2015 for $17,500.

Shakespeare Wooden Minnow

The Shakespeare wooden minnow lure follows the same popular lure design seen used by other lure builders in the early 1900s, with a front and rear propeller blade and a cylindrical body that tapers from head to tail.

The props are different than those found on many other lures from the same period, and are bent backwards at an angle, these propellers are known as A-notch propellers.

If this lure comes with the original box, which in itself is very rare, and if both the lure and the box are in great condition, you could fetch over $18,000 dollars for one of these lures, as some lucky person did in 2012.

What Types of Antique Lure is the Most Valuable?

There are several different types of antique fishing tackle that are worth money, from the copper-built Haskell minnow, the rarest of all old fishing lures, to standard steel lures.

The majority of antique fishing lures that are worth quite a bit are typically made out of wood and are hand-painted, and if the lure and paint condition of the lure is good, chances are you can get a pretty penny for one of these rare lures if you choose to sell one.

What are the Most Expensive Old Lures Made Of?

The Haskell minnow is made of copper, and since these are the rarest of all recreational fishing lures, the chances of finding one are like hitting the jackpot.

Most other old fishing lures are made from wood, and water can take its toll on wooden fishing lures. If you find a wooden fishing lure in great condition, chances are it wasn’t fished much and thus can be worth a good amount.

Which Companies Made the Most Valuable Old Fishing Lures?

Heddon, Shakespeare, and Creek Chub baits, Pardee, and Pflueger lures are the more commonly found fishing lures, and they were very popular in the early days of recreational fishing.

Heddon is probably the most familiar of all these fishing lure brands, and there are actually quite a few of them floating around, but not all of them are worth a substantial amount.

Where Can You Buy and Sell Vintage Fishing Lures

If you want to collect and potentially sell lures to collectors, a good place to start looking would be online, such as on eBay or in Facebook groups.

If you live in an area with a very prominent fishing culture, like the upper Midwest and Great Lakes region, start going to flea markets and rummage sales during the spring and summer, chances are someone has some old fishing lures sitting on a table for a few bucks, and that is where I have gotten many of mine.

Are Vintage Fishing Lures a Good Investment?

This is a hard question to ask, as many of the antique fishing lures you find are going to be somewhat common. For instance, I have a Heddon Dingbat sitting on my computer desk that is in great condition, but it features the most common paint job of the type, meaning it is only worth about 30 dollars.

If you happen to find one of the rare ones on this list, along with others not listed, they can be a good investment. There isn’t much information out there on how an antique fishing lure appreciates over time, so if you don’t want to keep and old fishing lure as a collectible, you’re better off selling it at auction.

You can find mouthwateringly delicious king crab at almost every top-rated seafood restaurant. Still, dishes containing king crab tend to cost $50 or more! But Alaskan king crabs populations are thriving, so why are king crabs so expensive?

Harvesting king crabs is dangerous, which is the primary reason why they’re expensive. Anglers who fish for king crabs tend to earn higher-than-average annual salaries due to the hazards of fishing for king crabs. Also, king crabs live in remote, cold waters. Reaching these areas can be costly.

Let’s explore the many reasons king crabs are more expensive than other types of seafood. When you’re familiar with the costs that influence a king crab’s price, you might have a new appreciation for the effort it takes to get this crab from the ocean to your plate.

Here Are the Top 10 Reasons Why King Crabs Are So Expensive:

1. Harvesting king crabs is dangerous
2. Some harvesting locations are more desirable
3. King crabs live in remote environments
4. All king crabs are wild
5. Fresh king crab is only available during specific seasons
6. Transporting fresh king crab is expensive
7. King crab tastes like high-quality lobster
8. Quotas prevent overfishing and limit supply
9. People prefer large king crab legs
10. There are several king crab dishes

10. There Are Several King Crab Dishes

Unlike some types of expensive seafood, like high-cost sea urchins, king crab is used in various dishes.

Steamed king crab legs are a popular way to enjoy king crab. But king crab leg meat is also used to make crab cakes, crab rolls, and savory seafood soups.

Because king crab is used to create many tasty dishes, there’s a higher demand for king crab meat, raising prices. It’s also worth noting that king crab legs come in different sizes. And the bigger the portion, the higher the price.

9. People Prefer Large King Crab Legs

Generally, king crab legs fall into one of several size categories:

• Jumbo
• Giant
• Colossal
• Super Colossal

The largest size, Super Colossal, is the most expensive. That’s because larger crab legs contain more meat!

So, while a pound of Jumbo king crab legs might cost about $20, a pound of Super Colossal legs typically retails for $100. Seafood lovers who enjoy steamed crab legs tend to gravitate toward the larger sizes, increasing the demand (and the price) for these heftier portions.

While king crabs aren’t endangered, the supply of fresh king crab is extremely limited. After all, many countries adhere to strict fishing quotas to prevent overfishing.

8. Quotas Prevent Overfishing and Limit Supply

The three countries with the highest king crab output are the United States, Norway, and Canada. These countries have strict harvesting quotas to prevent anglers from overfishing, keeping king crab population numbers high.

While this practice is an excellent way to ensure that wild king crab populations continue to thrive, it also means that demand for king crab always outpaces supply, resulting in higher prices.

Additionally, anglers cannot harvest king crabs below a specific weight limit. For example, legally harvested king crabs must weigh more than seven pounds. This rule keeps juvenile king crabs in the water, encouraging further population growth over time.

But diners love the savory taste of king crab legs. Their taste is often compared to the flavor of a high-quality lobster, making them a popular choice among seafood lovers around the world. This desirable flavor profile is another reason why king crabs are so expensive.

7. King Crab Tastes Like High-Quality Lobster

Many of the world’s most expensive foods have outrageously high price tags because they’re delicious! King crab is no exception, with a complex flavor profile that can please even the most particular palates.

King crab legs are slightly sweet, so they feature a balance of natural saltiness and unique sugariness. They’re also full of tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. As a result, these crab legs are often compared to the highest-quality lobster meats.

But while lobster populations suffer from overfishing, leading to severe shortages, king crabs are protected by several fishing regulations and laws. This difference in fishing practices has altered public opinion, leading to a higher demand for king crab and lower demand for lobster.

As the law of supply and demand dictates, any high-demand good will enjoy a price boost. But the increased call for king crab is just one of the many reasons this seafood is so pricey. Transportation issues also affect prices.

6. Transporting Fresh King Crab Is Expensive

The finest seafood restaurants only order live crustaceans and fresh fish. By avoiding frozen ingredients, world-class chefs can ensure that every meal that leaves their kitchen is of the best possible quality. But this need for fresh ingredients comes at a high cost.

Transporting live seafood can be exceptionally challenging. Not only do countries have strict rules about shipping and handling live animals, especially those from other regions of the world, but keeping aquatic creatures alive and healthy as they travel across the globe can be tricky.

A king crab needs a cold saltwater tank to survive. They also have high-maintenance diets, as adults are primarily carnivorous. Consequently, in-transit live king crabs need a regular diet of fish, clams, snails, or small crabs.

Keeping a king crab’s tank cold and clean during transit requires plenty of planning, a refrigeration unit, and extra care. These requirements significantly increase the price of a live king crab, especially during the off-peak seasons.

King crabs are only harvested during the fall and early winter months, and keeping them alive for an extended period during spring and summer can quickly add hundreds of dollars to a live crab’s price tag.

5. Fresh King Crab Is Only Available During Specific Seasons

Frozen king crab legs are slightly more affordable than fresh ones, but not by much. That’s because the annual haul of king crab is limited.

Anglers can only harvest these crustaceans during the fall and early winter. Whatever they catch during this time must last for the remainder of the off-peak season. This limited availability significantly affects the price of a king crab.

The best time of the year to invest in king crab legs is during the late winter and early spring season. In January and February, the harvest of king crabs is at its highest level and is incredibly fresh.

After this point, the supply begins to run low. As a result, prices tend to hit their highest point during the summer and fall, often increasing by 60%.

But, you may be wondering, “Why don’t aquaculturists build farms to keep the king crab supply constant throughout the year?” After all, there are plenty of seafood farms around the world, many of which produce fish, shellfish, and crustaceans all year long.

4. All King Crabs Are Wild

Unfortunately, you can’t farm king crabs. These creatures live in deep ocean environments and can take decades to reach a harvestable size. They also require plenty of space to roam around and reproduce.

Consequently, all king crabs that make it to the dinner table come from wild populations. As you might suspect, wild-caught seafood is almost always pricier than farmed versions.

King crabs will remain a wild-caught delicacy until fish farming techniques and technology improve. And because these crabs live in remote, freezing waters deep beneath the ocean’s surface, harvesting them is a constant challenge.

3. King Crabs Live in Remote Environments

Like some of the world’s most expensive mushrooms, king crabs live in remote environments that can be challenging to access. Anglers harvest Alaskan king crabs from the Gulf of Alaska, Bristol Bay, and Norton Sound. Ice floes are common in these areas, and they can destroy fishing vessels.

Fishing locations are often hundreds of miles away from the nearest coastline or shipyard. As a result, anglers working on fishing vessels may work 20-hour days and spend weeks or months harvesting crabs, with virtually no days off.

Additionally, Alaskan king crabs often live about 600 feet beneath the ocean’s surface. Reaching these areas requires advanced fishing equipment. If this equipment breaks while anglers are out on the water, crews might be unable to harvest any crabs for the season, raising the overall price for king crabs.

But traveling back to shore for a quick repair is out of the question. The time and energy it would take to sail into harvesting locations, return to land, and sail back out again would negatively impact a vessel’s haul.

Thanks to the restricted time limit allocated for harvesting these crabs, anglers are stuck in the remote environments where king crabs live until the end of the harvest season. The fishing vessels and equipment required to transport a crew to these faraway fishing spots are costly, and this expense is eventually added to the initial cost of a king crab.

While consumers could choose to purchase king crabs from other, less remote locations, the demand for Alaskan king crabs is far higher than the demand for Norwegian king crabs. For better or worse, some harvesting locations are more desirable than others.

2. Some Harvesting Locations Are More Desirable

The Gulf of Alaska may be the oldest known king crab habitat. While these crabs have proliferated in the Murmansk Fjord in Norway, they’ve only lived there since the 1960s. On the other hand, Alaskan king crabs have been thriving off the coast of Alaska for hundreds, potentially thousands of years.

They’re also the only domestic source of king crab in the United States. For these reasons, many diners prefer Alaskan king crabs over Norwegian king crabs. Besides, North American restaurants can spend slightly less on king crabs harvested from the ocean surrounding Alaska, which is a significant benefit.

However, because Alaskan king crabs are preferable, there’s a higher demand for them. And, as we’ve mentioned before, higher demand almost always means higher prices.

Still, fishing for Alaskan king crabs isn’t a walk in the park. Many people have died trying to harvest these delicious crustaceans. The inherent danger of harvesting king crabs might be the primary reason these crabs are so expensive.

1. Harvesting King Crabs Is Dangerous

Though supply and demand are some of the most significant factors influencing king crab prices, harvesting challenges might be even more influential. In particular, anglers who harvest king crabs tend to face life-threatening hazards.

Remember, Alaskan king crabs, one of the most popular types of king crabs, live in freezing waters off the coast of remote areas. As a result, anglers who sail into these areas to harvest king crabs can suffer from hypothermia after prolonged exposure to icy winds and low temperatures.

Storms and strong winds can also make this job dangerous. For example, when ice-cold waves pound the decks of a fishing vessel, the anglers aboard the ship are often drenched to the bone.

If they cannot dry off and get warm quickly, their heart rate can slow to a dangerous level, potentially resulting in death.

These turbulent waves can also wash anglers overboard into deep, unforgiving waters. When visibility is poor, it’s almost impossible for crew members to rescue anglers. Sadly, drowning risks are quite high for those who decide to fish for king crabs.

But low temperatures and rough waves aren’t the only dangers anglers face when harvesting king crabs. Heavy equipment, falling ice, and capsized fishing vessels are also potentially fatal risks that anglers encounter.

Fortunately, these brave anglers are compensated for the dangers they face. The average annual salary of someone who fishes for Alaskan king crabs is more than $314,000. But this higher-than-average salary also means that consumers tend to pay higher prices for Alaskan king crabs.

How Much Do King Crabs Cost?

The price for a pound of king crab legs varies depending on harvesting location, leg size, and season. That said, the average cost for a pound of king crab legs ranges between $60 and $75.

Whole king crabs are far more expensive. A live Alaskan king crab can cost $675 for those living in the continental United States.

But they can cost $1,000 or more when transported to international destinations, making them one of the most expensive types of seafood.

Why Are King Crabs So Expensive?

So, why are king crabs so expensive? First, catching these hefty crustaceans is incredibly dangerous. King crab anglers often put their lives on the line to harvest them.

Of course, king crab anglers also enjoy exceptional salaries to compensate for the job hazards. Anglers who harvest Alaskan king crabs earn an average salary of about $314,000. Consumers help pay this salary each time they purchase expensive king crab legs.

Are you interested in learning more about the world’s most expensive foods? If so, check out these related articles now!

When we tested the Mantis Blackbeard Trigger Reset System, it was a high-performing item for anyone looking to get more rifle practice without spending a ton of money. A system that replaces the bolt carrier group and magazine of most AR-15 rifles, the Blackbeard allows the user to not alter the trigger pull of their weapon, and have visual feedback of where the “round” goes. The system consists of the bolt carrier replacement, which can house an adjustable laser and which also contains a motor that resets your trigger, as well as a battery pack that fits into the magazine well of the rifle like a normal magazine. To complement this, the Blackbeard can be used with the Mantis Laser Academy app, which allows for virtual target scoring for drills and games. Overall, for rifle training, it’s hard to outdo the Mantis Blackbeard, especially for indoor close-quarter training situations.

The Mantis Blackbeard excels in close-quarters rifle training, operating as a simple drop-in kit to give you realistic trigger reset. The biggest advantage to this is that it’s totally safe, due to making your rifle completely inoperable when properly installed, which means that you can theoretically use this for force-on-force or live hostage rescue. It’s also totally platform agnostic as long as you use an AR platform rifle, meaning you can use it with a Smith & Wesson M&P 15 or a military issue M4 with no extra steps. The biggest advantage, however, is that it lets you keep your trigger pull, meaning that if you’re like my friend, you can drop this into your super-expensive Radian Model 1 or LMT MARS (he has both) and appreciate the improved trigger pull that both bring with dry fire and with live fire. In my own testing, the Blackbeard greatly assisted with trigger control training, getting into a good rhythm of pressing and releasing the trigger, preventing short stroking.

The Blackbeard has no recoil or force feedback, and basically just functions as a trigger reset device and laser projector. This isn’t like the CoolFire on our list that actually provides force feedback, or the SIRT pistol, so you won’t get that simulated recoil impulse. Another thing is that even if you do use the app, it doesn’t track things like weapon or trigger control, so you won’t get the same input that you get with the Mantis X on this list. Finally, the app that you need to get training metrics from, Mantis Laser Academy, is extremely temperamental. It costs a fair chunk of money, doesn’t work in daylight, requires a tripod to use, and needs extensive setup to work properly, making this a decidedly indoor dry fire training system.

The Mantis Blackbeard is a laser trainer and trigger reset system that converts any rifle into a training rifle, and for those purposes, it’s nearly perfect. Allowing shooters to conduct dry fire training with their actual trigger pull, and without requiring them to manually reset the hammer, is extremely helpful, and the issues with not tracking motion and trigger control can be solved by adding a Mantis X device to the rifle to work in conjunction, although that lowers the value proposition significantly.