Having in your survival bag a versatile item like a tarp will come in handy during an emergency situation. It will help you gather water, camouflage your supplies and it will provide a good shelter in case nothing else is available. Improvising a basic tarp shelter can keep your head dry, it will help you conserve heat and it provides a sense of comfort and safety.

A polyethylene tarp will go a long way and you should definitely get one for your bug out bag. It is lightweight, durable, draft-proof and waterproof. They come in a variety of sizes and color, and they won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

Making a tarp shelter is easy and there are dozens of different ways and patterns to construct a suitable shelter with only a single tarp.

Before you make your tarp shelter you must consider the following:

• The location of your shelter is very important and you should stop and think about it before building your shelter.
• The direction from which the wind is blowing should be taken into account or your shelter will sail away.
• The ground should be comfortable enough if you plan to get some sleep. Pointy rocks will keep you awake.
• The ground should slope slightly for the water to runoff.
• If there is no slope, you will have to dig some trenches around your shelter to aid drainage.
• Take into account the purpose of the shelter and make it as large as it needs to be.
• Consider the weather and chose a model that is stable and won’t collapse if rain or snow are expected.

For all the shelter examples provided here, you can use a 10X10 foot tarp.

1. The A-frame tarp shelter

The A-Frame shelter is probably the most common shelter one can make. It can be made by stringing the paracord between two trees. Draping over the tarp and staking it down are the final steps required to make this common shelter. The 30-degree angle of the tarp’s roof will create a ten foot-long living area. The shelter will be 8.6 feet wide and 2.5 feet tall. This shelter provides a good rain and snow runoff and a good wind deflection. The downside of the A-frame shelter is that there is no floor and if you haven’t stretchered the paracord tight enough, there will be sagging in the middle.

2. The Sunshade tarp shelter

To create this type of shelter you will need four anchoring points to which you will tie the paracord. This is a shelter parallel to the ground and it’s designed to provide 100 square feet of shade against the sun. some people use this type of shelter during the rain because the water will pool in the middle and it’s easier to collect it. To make it sturdier you can add support poles to the corners. This basic sunshade tarp shelter will provide maximum protection against the sun, but it’s not suitable for cold weather and it can’t support rain for long.

3. The Lean-To tarp shelter

This is another shelter that it’s simple to make and it’s great for deflecting wind or providing sunshade. To make this shelter you need to secure the tarp to the ground on the windward side and support it with the paracord between to anchor points. A 30 degree angle of the tarp will provide five feet of height and 8 feet of width under the shelter. This is an “on the go” shelter because it’s easy to erect and you can quickly take it down. It provides great wind deflection and it will keep you safe from rain or sun heat. The downside of this shelter is that there are not sides and no floor to offer protection against other elements.

4. The tube tent tarp shelter

This is a sturdy shelter that provides a floor and, if properly secured to the ground, will prevent rain from seeping in. To make it, you will need to secure the paracord between to trees and drape over the tarp with the opposite ends secured together. The sixty degrees walls will provide 3 feet of width and almost 3 feet of headroom. This should be enough room for a single adult.

5. The mushroom fly tarp shelter

This type of shelter is very similar to the basic sunshade shelter but it adds a central support pole at the tarp’s midpoint. It is designed for rain or snow runoff and it’s pretty sturdy if you secure the four corners of the tarp well enough. You can make it as tall or as short as you need depending on the length of the pole. This shelter provides a great runoff for rain or snow, but it doesn’t have any sides to protect you from the wind or cold.

6. The cornet tarp shelter

This shelter utilizes the entire length of the paracrod strung from a tree to the ground. The tarp is draped over the paracord diagonally, while the leading edges fold under to form the floor. The corner of the shelter must be faced towards the direction of the wind. You will also need to tie off some drip lines above the entrance of the shelter to prevent rain from running down the paracord and into the shelter. This is a good design for wind deflection and rain/debris shedding. The downside of this design is that it doesn’t offer too much head room and if you are a tall person, you might not have enough room for you and your gear.

7. The dining fly tarp shelter

This is the favorite design for many camper and it’s a simple open air cover. It provides a good sunshade and enough headroom without sacrificing too much space. It keeps away rain but it provides limited protection against the other elements due to its lack of sides. When properly tied down and staked, the dining fly becomes a sturdy shelter and the height of the support pole will dictate the amount of headroom. This is a good model for desert survival because it provides good ventilation and adequate coverage.

8. The wind shed tarp shelter

This type of shelter requires a little practice to get it done the right way. You will need to fold the tarp into thirds and make sure the leading edge of the roof hangs over the groundsheet for adequate rain runoff. The main ridgeline has to be secured with paracords while stretched between two trees. A length of paracord must be added to the bottom fold, where the back panel meets the groundsheet. It provides great wind deflection, but it requires a lot of secure points. The hanging roofline could also sag under rain loads and channel the water onto the groundsheet.

9. The Fold-Over Wind Shed tarp shelter

This design is similar to the traditional wind shed, but it provides more coverage by sacrificing the groundsheet. The height of the paracord ridgeline determines the angle of the roof and the footprint of the shelter. It provides great wind deflection and rain runoff, but it doesn’t protect completely against the elements due to its lack of floor, flaps or sides.

10. The diamond fly tarp shelter

This shelter is suitable for two persons and it’s easy to make. You will need to secure the paracord to a tree and the ground, and drape over the tarp at a diagonal. The length of the paracord and the angle with which it is tied to a tree will determine the overall headroom and width of the shelter. The steep walls will shed rain and will deflect wind if they are well staked. This model will require drip lines, just like the cornet shelter. Depending on the size of the tarp, this shelter can accommodate more than two persons or more equipment, but the lack of a floor and flaps won’t keep out the elements. If the wind changes direction frequently, the shelter can be compromised.

11. The arrowhead shelter

Start the construction of this shelter by supporting the center of two perpendicular edges with five foot long poles or by attaching those edges to trees using a paracord. You will need to stake to the ground the opposite corner so that it creates a series of four triangles. This design will provide 35 square feet of living space and five feet of headroom at the opening. The flap will hand down and make a partial closure. The poles need to be supported by paracord tie-downs. This shelter deflects wind with its low profile and it’s very roomy.

12. The half box tarp shelter

This shelter will require some time to be built and you need to use at least four support poles and as many or more tie downs to hold it all up. The footprint provided is 25 square feet and it has two sides of protection from the elements. If not supported in the middle or kept taut from the sides, it will sag under the weight of water or snow. A full one quarter of the tarp goes unused and folded up behind the rear corner. This type of tarp shelter provides good sunshade throughout the entire day if you position it properly.

13. The barn stall tarp shelter

To make this shelter you can either use four five foot poles for support or two poles and a paracrod attached to two anchor points. The front is supported by poles and the single 90 degree wall provides enough protection, although strong wind can damage the entire structure. This shelter produces a 50 square feet living area but it has no floor. It’s simple to build, but it doesn’t provide adequate protection from the weather.

14. The Square arch tarp shelter

As the name implies, this shelter is an arch with a square top. Starting with two parallel lengths of paracord attached to anchor points approximately 3 feet apart and 3 feet high, drape the ground cloth over the two lengths of paracord and secure the long ends of the tarp with stakes. This is a good shelter for narrow spaces, but the odds of finding four anchor points in the needed proximity is quite low. To allow rain to runoff, make sure you secure one paracord slightly higher than the other. This shelter is three feet wide, three feet wide and ten feet long.

15. The shade sail tarp shelter

This is an easy and quick to build shelter and it requires to diagonally drape the tarp over a length of paracord attached to two anchor points. The opposite corners of the tarp are staked to the ground. This is an open and airy shelter and the lower the angles of the sides are, the better it will deflect wind and the more shade will provide. It provides all day shade and it requires minimal stakes and set up, but it’s not weather resistant and it will not keep you dry.

What not to do when building a tarp shelter:

• Don’t build your shelter over an ant nest or any type of burrows
• Don’t set up your shelter beneath a dead tree or in the vicinity of one
• Don’t attach tarp lines to a tree standing alone or to tall trees. Always go for the short tree in a group of taller trees.
• Don’t set up your shelter below the high tide mark of a shoreline
• Don’t set up your shelter on top of a hill or ridge.
• Don’t set up your shelter on a river bank

Making a tarp shelter is not rocket science and with a little bit of practice anyone should be able to make one. Learning these tarp shelter patterns will come in handy during an emergency preparedness situation.

Stay safe and God Bless!

Of all the species out there, the Pacific halibut is the largest halibut of them all.

Catching one of these big fish is something that many anglers hope to do and some have actually managed to catch some truly giant halibut over the years.

In this article, we look into the story behind the current IGFA world record halibut as well as some other monster halibut that feature in the record books too.

Largest Halibut Ever Caught: 459lb Record Fish

• Angler: Jack Tragis
• Date: 1996
• Size: 459lb
• Location: Dutch Harbor, Alaska

The largest halibut ever caught on record is a Pacific halibut caught by Jack Tragis off Dutch Harbor, Alaska, in June 1996. The fish weighed in at a staggering 459 pounds, making it the IGFA all-tackle world record holder for this species.

The fish fought Jack for two hours before he was able to bring the giant fish aboard the small boat he and his friends had been using for the day on June 11.

At the time of his record-breaking catch, Jack was using a Shakespeare Sturdy Stick rod, a Penn Senator 4/0 reel, Aimer line, and a Big ugly jig.

Before landing the world record halibut, Jack and his fishing buddies had already landed several halibut (although these were much smaller) and were getting ready to head back to shore after spending the day fishing in waters that were around 200 feet deep. It was on his last cast of the day that Jack successfully caught his 459-pound record-breaker.

It took Jack two hours of fighting before the fish was able to be bought on board the small boat he and his friends had been using for the day. This big halibut was over eight feet long and five feet wide.

Jack’s catch didn’t just set a new record, it actually beat the former record by almost 20 pounds. Prior to Jack landing his giant pacific halibut, the biggest ever caught was a 440-pound fish that had been caught back in 1978.

This is one world record that will likely take a long time for anyone to even get close to, let alone try to break.

See also: Alaska fishing licenses: How much do they cost and how and where to buy?

Atlantic Halibut All Tackle Record

On the 28th of July 2004, angler Thomas Nielsen set a new world record for Atlantic halibut when he landed a big halibut that weighed in at an impressive 418 pounds 13 ounces. Thomas caught his record-breaking fish while bait fishing in Vannaya Troms, Norway. He was using a Shimano rod, a Shimano reel, and a Dyneema line baited with cole fish.

It took more than an hour of fighting for Thomas to successfully land the fish but once he did, he was able to submit all the details needed to the International Game Fish Association (IGFA) who ultimately confirmed his catch as being the new record for the largest Atlantic halibut ever caught.

California Halibut All Tackle Record

Angler Francisco J. Rivera was fishing in Santa Rosa Island, California, USA on the 1st of July 2011 when he landed his 67-pound 5-ounce California halibut that set the new record for the largest fish of this species ever caught.

He was using a Calstar rod, a Penn reel, and an Ande line.

In addition to his fishing gear, Francisco was bottom fishing using live squid as bait.

See also: California fishing license info: Costs, Where to buy and Different Types

About The Key Halibut Species

Distribution

Pacific halibut can be found on the continental shelf of the northern Pacific Ocean and the Bering Sea.

Atlantic halibut can be found in Northerly places from Canada all the way to Iceland. If you are looking for Atlantic halibut in the US, then they are most common in the Gulf of Maine.

California halibut are most commonly found south of San Francisco.

Size Range

Pacific halibut males are usually smaller than the females of the species. Although not all will grow to extremely large sizes, this species is sometimes referred to as a barn door fish as some can grow up to around 500 pounds in weight and more than eight feet in length.

Atlantic halibut have a pretty slow growth rate so their true size is not always commonly seen. Although usually under eight feet in length, it is thought that these fish could grow up to 15 feet.

California halibut can live for up to 30 years and can grow up to around five feet in length and up to 72 pounds in weight.

Favored Fishing Techniques

One key thing to remember when fishing for halibut is to be patient and wait for a bit of time after any halibut strikes your line. Ideally, you might want to let the fish eat your bait before setting your hook.

A circle hook tends to work well for halibut fishing so these can be a useful addition to your fishing gear.

Another thing to keep in mind is that big bait can lead to some big halibut being caught.

Eating Qualities

Halibut contains nutrients that are very good for your heart. These include nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids, niacin, selenium and magnesium.

In regards to taste, halibut has a mild and sweet taste and has very lean, white flesh.

Halibut is considered a high-quality food source and makes for a great addition to your diet.

According to www.dictionary.com, cull means “to choose, select or pick”. In other words, deer culling is when a human decides which animal is being taken from the herd. By definition, deer culling is not much different from hunting.

Why use Deer Culling?

There are a few reasons why a deer herd would be culled:

• Herd Reduction
• Deer and vehicle collisions
• Property damage
• Disease Control

Herd Reduction

Herd reduction is often used within urban areas and forest preserves. This type of deer culling normally involves sharp shooters. The goal is to reduce the size of the herd to prevent things like starvation and incest.

Herd reduction does come with quite a hefty price tag. The cost of these deer culls can run from around $340 per deer to $740 per deer. The overall price of herd reduction culling can easily run into the hundreds of thousands of dollars. (1)

Deer and vehicle collisions

Deer and vehicle collisions are a common occurrence in Illinois and result in vehicle damage and injury, including death, to some drivers. Due to the relationship between deer populations and vehicle/deer accidents, the State of Illinois works with insurance companies when determining the states deer herd objectives. While it is controversial, deer culling has been shown to lowered the number of deer and vehicle collisions.

Property Damage

Property damage is a serious issue to Illinois farmers and homeowners. A whitetail deer can consume an average 7 pounds of food per day which equates to 2,555 pounds per year. This can be devastating to a farmer’s revenue earned from his crops.

Residential damage occurs also. Valuable trees and plants can be damaged when a whitetail has turn to them for a food source after their natural habitat has been eaten.(2)

Agricultural damage

There are a three ways in which deer are culled from these properties.

1. The issuing of nuisance tags to the property owner giving them the ability to cull the deer
2. Allowing hunters access to the property
3. Using sharpshooters provided by the state

Urban Damage

With urban/residential damage, sharpshooters are normally used. Only in rare instances, urban hunting zones are established.

Disease Control

This type of deer culling is used in areas where disease is threatening the herd. Control methods in this situation depends on the state. Sharpshooters and traditional hunting methods are often used together to gather information on the disease. After the information is gathered, further action is decided upon.

Deer culling and the future of the Illinois deer herd

Deer culling is an important issue and seems to be a controlling factor with the number of deer in Illinois. We have talked to many people on the subject ranging from hunters to employees of the Illinois DNR. In the near future we will be publishing articles containing interviews that give different angles and viewpoints on the subject of deer culling in Illinois.

The coming sections will include an interview with Jeff O’hare who runs the Facebook page “Stop the Illinois DNR so the Herd Can Grow”. This posts will offer very interesting insight on CWD and what is happening here in Illinois from the perspective of some Illinois hunters.

The final section will be an interview of Doug Dufford, Wildlife Disease and Invasive Species Program Manager for the IDNR. These different perspectives on the CWD and deer culling will allow for greater insight to this area!!

References

1. http://www.cleveland.com/solon/index.ssf/2013/12/solon_continues_deer_culling_t.html
2. http://www.northamericanwhitetail.com/land-management/deermanagement_wt_202foodplots/

Are you a fish food lover searching for a unique delicacy to try? Or perhaps you’re an adventurous foodie seeking out new and exciting flavors?

Either way, you may have heard of the bowfin fish – a prehistoric-looking creature found in the freshwater lakes and rivers of North America. But the question remains, can you eat bowfin fish?

In this article, we’ll dive into the culinary world of this intriguing fish and explore whether it’s a delicious delicacy or better left untouched.

So, let’s reel in the facts and discover if the bowfin fish is a tasty treat or a fishy foe! It is safe to eat bowfin fish, but most people don’t like the flavor because they don’t prepare it properly.

Unless it is properly prepared, it will have a soft, mushy texture. The flavor is often compared to catfish but with a meatier taste.

Is Bowfin Fish Edible And Safe To Eat?

The bowfin, scientifically known as Amia calva, has an elongated body and a mottled olive-green and brown coloration, which makes it look rather unattractive.

Its body is covered in heavy scales, its head is armored with bony plates, and its mouth is filled with sharp teeth.

Additionally, this fish has a slimy texture and can swim backward, making it quite unusual in appearance and behavior.

Although bowfin is considered safe for consumption, many people may not find it appealing due to its unpleasant appearance and taste.

In fact, there are plenty of other fish species that are more desirable for eating. Unfortunately, some game fishermen categorize bowfin as “trash fish” and end up killing them unnecessarily.

How Does A Bowfin Fish Differ From Any Other Fin Fish?

It’s just like filleting other fish, but there’s a slight difference since the ribs extend a little further down toward the anal fin than in white bass or stripers.

Compared to most game fish, the meat of this fish has a softer texture and should be cooked quickly.

Bowfin Fish And Its Nicknames

There may be no fish in North America with more informal nicknames than bowfin. What’s in a name, anyway?

No matter what we call it, a bowfin would still be a badass, ready to shake off the trash fish label (and possibly your ego and hook as well).

However, bowfin has long been regarded as “trash” and “rough” fish by general fishing communities, as their nicknames suggest.

The usual BS folklore can be blamed for this:

• They harm game fish.
• They are difficult to catch.
• They are certainly unattractive to eat.

It is important to note that these common beliefs are unfounded.

Experience of Eating Bowfin

While bowfin will fight spiritedly when you put them at the end of your line, most people believe you shouldn’t eat them, but they are wrong.

There is no comparison between them and walleye, northern pike, or sunfish, but they can be prepared so that they taste better.

When bowfin is wrongly prepared, its flesh will be soft and jellylike, and although it might be edible, most people won’t consider it palatable. They would be right when prepared wrong.

There is a reason why they call the bowfin the mudfish. The strong mud flavor is what keeps many bow fishermen away from them.

Bow fishermen report that the fish are edible, but not something they’d choose to eat. As bowfin age, they accumulate mercury in their bodies, and when a bowfin is older, it will have more mercury.

The risk of mercury harming an unborn child is particularly significant for pregnant women.

There is a risk that it can harm parts of a child’s body, such as the lungs, kidneys, and nervous system. Additionally, it could damage the nervous system of a young child. Nevertheless, mercury is an issue that affects all predatory fish.

What Does Taste Like?

While bowfin is not a common food choice, a few daring fishermen have sampled it and reported that the texture is soft, and the taste is unremarkable.

Many found the mushy consistency and greyish color unappetizing, leading them to believe that it lacks flavor and texture. As a result, the majority of people tend to avoid eating bowfin due to its unappealing appearance and lackluster taste.

Why Is Bowfin Fish Called Cotton Fish?

Two words rarely used together: bowfin and morels. It is well known that bowfin is so vilified as table fare (unlike morels) that they are referred to as “cotton fish” due to the belief that they are generally pale in color and mushy.

Proper meat care and preparation pay dividends when it comes to cooking fish and game, and bowfin is no exception.

Their flesh is usually softer because they are often caught in relatively warm water in the dog days of summer. Filets that have been frozen do not keep well; when they come out of the freezer, they thaw into a squishy, cotton-like mass.

It’s important to keep bowfin alive as much as possible before filing, and then immediately prepare it for the table. Regardless of how soft the filets are, they firm up as they heat. A lightly breaded end product rivals pike or walleye.

Bowfin eggs, unlike their primitive counterparts, gars, often considered toxic, are considered a type of caviar, a la “Cajun caviar”.

Why Is the Bowfin So Hated?

Unfortunately, many fishermen dislike bowfin and often kill them when caught. This is due to a misconception that bowfin prey on young game fish that are more desirable for fishermen.

Moreover, there is a lot of confusion between bowfin and snakeheads, which are not native to North American waters and are considered to be invasive species.

Bowfin, on the other hand, is native fish that has been around for a long time and are the only surviving member of the Amiidae family.

While they may not be the most attractive or desirable fish to catch, they play a valuable role in their ecosystem and should not be indiscriminately killed.

It’s important to distinguish between bowfin and snakeheads and to recognize that bowfin is not as destructive or invasive as its non-native counterparts.

Why Do We Need Bowfin?

Bowfins are highly adaptable and tend to thrive in the sluggish, less oxygenated waters of lakes and rivers. As a key predators, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystem by preying on the most abundant fish species.

This helps to control the population of foraging fish and prevents overpopulation. Despite its unappealing appearance and unremarkable taste, the bowfin is a valuable part of our natural heritage and has been around for millions of years.

While we may not recommend eating this fish, it’s essential to recognize its ecological significance and strive to preserve its existence for many more years to come.

By protecting the bowfin, we are not only conserving a unique species but also safeguarding the delicate balance of our aquatic ecosystems.

Conclusion

While the bowfin fish may not be a popular menu item, it is indeed edible and enjoyed by some as a flavorful delicacy.

With its unique taste and texture, it can be prepared in a variety of ways and is worth trying for those with an adventurous palate.

However, it’s important to keep in mind that the bowfin fish can be difficult to catch and has a lot of bones, so it may not be the easiest fish to prepare.

We asked a firearms expert with over thirty years of experience to pick the top five semiautomatic pistols. Yes, here we go again with another Top 5 gun list. Having previously done one on the Top 5 9mm Pistols, 5 Best Sig Sauer Guns, 5 Best CCW Guns, and plenty more.

Top Five Semiautomatic Pistols on the Planet

Now it’s time to get to one of the most popular gun debates out there. We’re going to talk about what I consider to be the five best Semiautomatic Pistols regardless of size, brand, or specific caliber.

M1911/M1911-A1 .45 ACP

Okay, y’all know this one had to make the list. Besides belonging on this Top 5 List, it’s also one of the three most enduring inventions of the legendary gunmaker John Moses Browning. After passing a 6,000 round torture test, it became the first semiautomatic pistol to be adopted by the U.S. Armed Forces as well as the most powerful sidearm to ever become standard issue to a nation’s military.

It served faithfully in that role for nearly 75 years, and even though the M1911 was officially replaced in that role by the next gun on the list, it remains wildly popular with gun enthusiasts to this day, more than 100 years since its invention. And it’s one of my sentimental favorites as well; my very first firearms purchase was a Springfield Armory M1911-A1, and I’m quite fond of both my Springfield Mil-Spec and my genuine WWI-vintage Colt.

Beretta 92FS/M9 9mm

As previously indicated, this was the gun that had the daunting task that of succeeding the M1911 as the official sidearm of the U.S. military, and in 1984 the Beretta 92F/M9 did precisely that, in turn fulfilling the role for 33 years — saw combat in Panama, Iraq, and Afghanistan along the way — before giving way to the SIG M17. This pistol gained further credibility after being adopted by LAPD and the L.A. Sheriff’s Department as well as numerous other domestic law enforcement agencies. In retrospect, that’s not surprising in light of the fact that Beretta is the world’s oldest industrial firm of any kind, dating back to 1526, so you gotta figure they know what they’re doing.

What’s more, two renowned firearms industry experts who are both known as hardcore M1911 aficionados, Ken Hackathorn and gunsmith Bill Wilson, have gone on record lavishing praise on the Beretta, with the former deeming it “the most reliable handgun I ever used” and the latter stating that “I shoot it just as well as the 1911.”

From a personal standpoint, as I’ve written several times before, the Beretta 92 was the very first pistol I fell in love with – strictly platonically speaking of course – back at the tender age of 14.

Browning Hi-Power P-35 9mm

Another one of John Browning’s top three most enduring inventions (the third being the M2 “Ma Deuce” .50 caliber machine gun). Though alas, Mr. Browning passed away in 1926 before this particular project was perfected, so the proverbial torch was passed on to Belgian gun designer Monsieur Dieudonné Saive, who saw the pistol through to completion in 1935, hence the P-35 designation. With its 13 + 1 standard ammo capacity, the BHP was the first of the “Wondernines,” i.e. high-capacity double-stack 9mm autoloaders; indeed, the “Hi-Power” designation refers to the ammunition capacity and not the ballistic power of the caliber in which the pistol was chambered.

The “Grande Puissance” spent several decades as the most widely used military, police, and counterterrorist pistol in the world, with its list of users including the elite British Special Air Service (SAS) and the FBI Hostage Rescue Team (HRT). That’s credentials!

I purchased my own 1967 vintage BHP as a birthday present to myself back in 2007. With roughly 4,000 rounds through it, it’s been a fine shooter.

Glock 17 9mm

Here we go again. The most reliable and durable handgun ever made: a service life in excess of 250,000 rounds; going 10,000 jam-free rounds without a cleaning; Tenifer finish that’s more rust-resistant than stainless steel; continuing to function after being dropped out of a helicopter at an altitude of 400 feet; working after being frozen in a solid block of ice, etc. The pistol that, upon its debut in 1982, established the credibility of polymer-framed and striker-fired pistols and paved the way for their eventual dominance of the U.S. private citizen and law enforcement market.

My own Glock 17 has given me superb performance over the course of 19 years and 20,000 rounds. ‘Nuff said.

Ruger Standard .22 LR

Hey, I had to include at least one rimfire pistol on the list for the sake of “equal time,” right?

The Ruger Standard is to .22 Long Rifle (LR) rimfire semiauto pistols what the M1911 and Browning Hi-Power 9mm are to centerfire semiautomatic combat handguns, i.e. the gold standard against which all competing makes & models must be judged. Back in 1949, this pistol launched the careers of the late great Bill Ruger (1916-2002) and Alex Sturm (1923-1951) and their eponymous Sturm, Ruger & Co, which is now one of the giants of the American firearms industry.

Like the 1911 and BHP, M1911 and the BHP, the Ruger .22 autopistol has proven itself highly adaptable through the decades, spawning many variants and lending itself to a myriad of customizations.

And this gun hasn’t served as a mere plinker and paper-puncher either: suppressed (“silenced”) editions of the pistol were actually used by U.S. Army Special Forces AKA “Green Berets” for stealthy kills against Viet Cong and North Vietnamese Army (NVA) sentries during the Vietnam War.

Shockingly, this is the only pistol on the list which I don’t own! That said, I recently did a live-fire range review of the current and most refined variant, the Ruger Mk IV, and found it to be a very pleasant experience.

Hit Or Miss?

Okay, agree or disagree? For any fans of SIG Sauer pistols, Smith & Wesson auto pistols, the CZ-75 (that one just barely missed the cut, to be honest), Heckler & Koch (HK), Walther, etc. go ahead and unleash your rage at us in the Comments section.

Bonus: Glock Gun Photo Essay

MORE: The F-35 Now Comes in Beast Mode

MORE: Why the U.S. Navy Tried to Sink Their Own Aircraft Carrier

Expert Author Biography: Christian D. Orr has 33 years of shooting experience, starting at the tender age of 14. His marksmanship accomplishments include: the Air Force Small Arms Ribbon w/one device (for M16A2 rifle and M9 pistol); Pistol Expert Ratings from U.S. Customs & Border Protection (CBP), Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE), and the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) Criminal Investigator Training Program (CITP); multiple medals and trophies via the Glock Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) and the Nevada Police & Fires Games (NPAF). Chris has been an NRA Certified Basic Pistol Instructor since 2011. In his spare time, he enjoys (besides shooting, obviously) dining out, cigars, Irish and British pubs, travel, USC Trojans college football, and Washington DC professional sports.

I’ve been bowhunting for 30 years and in the 2016 season, I took my biggest mule deer ever with a bow. I shoot a PSE Omen bow and on this hunt, I was using a Rage Hypodermic broadhead.

I go to Wyoming fishing. I wanted to hunt mule deer in Wyoming, but I had been guiding so much that I hadn’t had a chance to go to Wyoming and hunt for myself. 2016 was the only time in 10 years that I was able to make a mule deer hunt in Wyoming. When I drew my tag, I knew I’d be hunting in a really good unit.

I made six scouting trips before the season. I found a buck in the middle of July, then I didn’t see him again for 1-1/2 months. I found him again five or six days before my hunt started. I had pulled my trailer up to the area that I wanted to hunt five days before the season. When I saw this buck, his antlers had grown from about a 210-inch buck to a 252-inch buck in a little bit more than 1-1/2 months.

I came back home to Utah for a couple of days, and all I could think about was that mule deer buck. I went back to Wyoming two days before bow season started on Thursday. I arrived on Tuesday, and I found that buck again on Wednesday. The buck was holding on a peak at about 10,000 feet – almost above the tree line. I saw a grizzly bear, two wolves and about five or six black bears. I could see the Grand Teton Mountains off to my west.

I was hunting along the Wind River where one of the tallest peaks in Wyoming is and it’s called Gannet Peak. This is a really remote area of Wyoming, and I rarely see any other hunters when I’m up there. The first time I found this buck and every time I found him until I took him, he was on the same peak. I had put some trail cameras out on this mountain, and I got trail camera pictures from when he scored about 210 inches.

I was hiking in to my stand before daylight on the day I took the buck. My Dad and a friend of mine were hunting on the opposite side of the mountain from me. All the way in to where I was going to setup, I thought about the bears I had seen when I was scouting. I had one hand on my bow and the other hand on my bear spray as I moved silently through the dark woods. I hoped that the buck would be feeding at daylight on a south-facing slope where I had seen him before. One of the advantages of bowhunting mule deer in the early season is, because their antlers are still in the velvet, they tend to stay in open places more often than when they’re in hard horn.

The buck I was hunting was with another buck that would score about 180 on the P&Y scale. About 8 a.m., when the sun started warming up, the bucks would usually leave the open areas and move to the north side of the slope. I decided to try and intercept the buck as he went from his feeding area in the early morning to his bedding area. When I spotted the buck, I knew I had to climb the mountain to get above him. I climbed between 1,000 and 2,000 feet up above the buck. I was only about 100 yards from the top of the mountain when I set up. As the two deer moved toward me, the smaller buck was leading my buck up a trail about 50 yards from me.

Once I finally took the shot, the arrow hit the buck hard enough to turn the buck around and cause him to start going back down the trail he had just come up. Then the buck bedded down about 80 yards from me. After about 30 minutes, I saw the buck come rolling out of this patch of trees where he had bedded down. If he hadn’t hit this one tree while he was rolling, he would have fallen off a ledge, landed about 500 feet down the mountain and probably would have broken his rack.

He was a 252-inch buck, and he had a total of 25 points. The buck was also the state record for mule deer taken in the velvet in the state of Wyoming.

Day 1: Mossy Oak Pro Brandon Wicks’s Biggest Bull Elk

Tomorrow: One of Brandon Wicks’s Most Memorable Elk Hunts

Iguanas are a type of lizard that is found in warm climates. They come in a variety of sizes, with the largest species reaching up to six feet in length. The biggest iguana in the world is the green iguana, which can grow up to seven feet long and weigh up to 20 pounds. Green iguanas are native to Central and South America, and can be found in the wild in countries such as Costa Rica, Panama, and Ecuador.

Its brightly colored and dragon-like appearance make it one of the most popular iguana species. They are mostly harmless to humans, but they can be irritating. The largest iguana genus in the world is the Fiji crested iguana. Almost all Melanesian iguanas are critically endangered, according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Only the Marine iguana can be found in the ocean, and it is the only reptile known to spend a significant amount of time in the water. Their swimming abilities allow them to dive to depths of 65 feet and a depth of 15 feet. One of the largest spiny-tailed species in the world, measuring more than four and a half feet in length.

The Galapagos Islands are home to all three species of the genus. The blue iguana was thought to be 69 years old when it died. A Rock iguana’s longevity is well-known. A 41-year-old captive-born rock iguana is currently the world’s longest-living rock iguana. A dry forested area with eroded limestone and sparse vegetation is ideal for Rock iguanas. The ten species recognized are vulnerable, endangered, critically endangered, and two of them have been declared as critically endangered. A green iguana has a typical size of almost five feet, though some have grown to be nearly six feet long.

What Is The Biggest Iguana Found In Florida?

Credit: Oddee

The biggest iguana found in florida is the green iguana. It is a large, tree-dwelling lizard that is native to Central and South America. The green iguana is the largest member of the genus Iguana and can grow to be over 6 feet long and weigh up to 20 pounds.

There is no native iguana species in Florida. Invasive species currently occupy the majority of the state’s land. Despite the fact that these lizards are misunderstood and wreaking havoc, they are frequently misdiagnosed as invasive nuisances. Their feces and elaborate burrows have caused significant damage to man-made and natural structures. The Mexican spiny-tailed iguana grows to be a little shorter than 5 feet and weighs between 5 and 15 pounds. In the 1970s, independent reptile release programs were the most effective way to introduce these lizards to South Florida. By the time Florida’s environmental agencies could intervene, there were thousands living in various counties.

A Mexican spiny-tailed iguana is the most common iguana species found in Florida. Adult green iguanas can grow to be over five feet long and weigh more than 15 pounds. They are prolific breeders, laying nearly 40 eggs per hour. According to research, Florida currently has over 20,000 residents. Fewer cold spells have resulted in them surviving in winter, thanks to climate change.

Largest Green Iguana Ever

Credit: blogspot.com

Each species has its own size, but the largest iguana measured was 5.2 feet long. Two of the ten recognized species are vulnerable, four are endangered, and four are critically endangered.

A iguana is a stocky lizard with a broad head, a saggy skin on its throats, and spines that protrude from its head, neck, backs, and tails. The green iguana, which measures between 5 and 7 feet, is the longest of the iguanas. For example, the female rock iguana can lay up to 20 eggs. The mother’s actions indicate that she is leaving the eggs alone. A baby iguana is completely independent for the first three years of its life. Predators and habitat loss are responsible for the extinction of many young birds. The Galapagos marine iguana, despite its dark skin, can swim through water like a crocodile. The population of the Fiji banded iguana has decreased by 50% between 30 and 45 years. People in Central and South America raise and consume iguanas on farms.

Biggest Iguana Caught In Florida

In Florida, the largest iguana on record was 4 feet 5 inches long and weighed 35 pounds. It was caught in 2009 by a fisherman in Key West.

Ich habe gerade den grten Leguan aller Zeiten gefangen, wenn Sie meine Instagram-Geschichte gesehen haben, wir haben noch ein monster Die Seiten von der Dings ist auch hier verrckt, and ber das fest ist das gemacht. The Ding ist gewaltig, oh nein, geht es ins Rollen gebracht, Bruder, hr von rollen, Baby, das ist so im Gegensatz The 400 Pfund we’re offering is for a limited time, so I’ll take advantage of it. When you want to hear a fangen, sing hier. Ich hier diesen Angelschnur haben, aber die Hundert-Pfund-Test von diesen Angelschnur ist, hier diesen Angelschnur trotzdemern. Ich brauche dich, um, derzeit sehr heim, hier, ihr heute, das weiter daran ziehen. I’m glad I chose trainieren rather than boarding a plane, and I’m glad I chose train-enriching rather than boarding a plane. In der grten dominanten wilder Leguan, he ist.

Is that a sign of my life? Weiter hier berspringst schauen geben, wie er hier so beeindruckend ist? I am so fortunate that I have so many great friends, especially in Germany, that I have found a special place for them all, so thank you very much for all of the wonderful things you have given me. I will be pleased to report that I have found a special place for them Is that versuche you’re looking for, or is it just you making a fool of yourself? ich in Sd Florida, die hier aber die We have Bass Pro Shops located in every city across the country; if you want to make sure you get the best service and prices, please visit our store. Is there any significance to Iggy Jungs, bleiben Sie dran, danke fr Abonnieren, or werde ich es Ihnen sagen Jungs ber die TV-Shows, die herauskommen, and lasst mich e

Giant Iguanas In Florida: Just A Rumo

Despite this, the state has been rumored to be home to giant iguanas. People believe there are giant iguanas in Florida because they have seen the animals on TV or in photos. In Florida, there are no native iguanas; instead, iguanas are invasive species. As a result, there is no such thing as an iguana that can grow to be enormous in Florida.

Iguana Lifespan

An iguana’s lifespan ranges between 12 and 15 years. An iguana can live for more than 20 years if it is properly cared for.

It’s worth noting that iguanas are fairly long-lived lizards, particularly captive-bred ones. A baby iguana that is sold in captivity can live up to 30 years. The average lifespan of a iguana is thought to be 20 years. Pets like these require special housing and veterinary care, so some people may not be appropriate for them. For iguanas to be kept, they must be kept in a comfortable environment. As a young adult, a 42 enclosure is commonly used by keepers. Because your rhinoceros iguana requires UVB lamps, you should select the best UVB lamp for him.

When basking on the iguana, both UVA and UVB are welcome. The rhinoceros iguana‘s name is derived from a bony-plated pseudo-horn or outgrowth that resembles rhinoceros horn. Skin colors range from blue grey to a dark green to brown, depending on the skin type. It is critical to feed a variety of foods to Iggy in order for him to be healthy and happy. At all times, iguanas require fresh, clean water. When it comes to humidity, your iguana should be in a good range of 65-80%. It shed like any other reptile or lizard as a result of its being a rhinoceros iguana.

It can be difficult to shed hair when the air temperature is insufficient or too hot. When you gnashed a iguana, you needed to keep its humidity constant. After two or three years of age, juvenile iguanas shed a thin layer of skin on their bodies. To avoid sticking to the animals new skin, the air must be humid enough to prevent it from sticking. Make sure the products are simple to clean and replace.

There are no predators in the wild that can keep the Grand Cayman blue iguana in check for 40 years. Despite their lack of human intervention, they are impressive. A 40-year-old rhinoceros iguana, known only as Rhino, has been recognized as the world’s oldest living iguana by Guinness World Records. Rhino, the world’s oldest rhinoceros, reached 40 years and 278 days old on November 27, 2020, and lives at the Australia Zoo, which was purchased by Steve Irwin’s widow,Terri, in 2011. Steve Irwin, a wildlife conservation and film maker who was killed by a stingray while filming sharks in 2003, was a well-known wildlife conservation and film maker. The rhinoceros is a testament to the preservation of Irwin’s conservation legacy. This incredible story of survival is an inspiring example of the power and resilience of nature.

The following ammunition cartridge ballistics information and chart can be used to approximately compare .223 Remington vs .45-70 Government ammo rounds. Please note, the following information reflects the estimated average ballistics for each caliber and does not pertain to a particular manufacturer, bullet weight, or jacketing type. As such, the following is for comparative information purposes only and should not be used to make precise predictions of the trajectory, performance, or true ballistics of any particular .223 Remington or .45-70 Government rounds for hunting, target shooting, plinking, or any other usage. The decision for which round is better for a given application should be made with complete information, and this article simply serves as a comparative guide, not the final say. For more detailed ballistics information please refer to the exact round in question or contact the manufacturer for the pertinent information. True .223 Remington and .45-70 Government ballistics information can vary widely from the displayed information, and it is important to understand that the particular characteristics of a given round can make a substantive difference in its true performance.

Caliber Type Velocity (fps) Energy (ft-lb) .223 Remington Rifle 3150 1250 .45-70 Government Rifle 1680 2270

Velocity

As illustrated in the chart, .223 Remington rounds – on average – achieve a velocity of about 3150 feet per second (fps) while .45-70 Government rounds travel at a velocity of 1680 fps. To put this into perspective, a Boeing 737 commercial airliner travels at a cruising speed of 600 mph, or 880 fps. That is to say, .223 Remington bullets travel 3.6 times the speed of a 737 airplane at cruising speed, while .45-70 Government bullets travel 1.9 times that same speed.

Various calibers

Energy

Furthermore, the muzzle energy of a .223 Remington round averages out to 1250 ft-lb, while a .45-70 Government round averages out to about 2270 ft-lb. One way to think about this is as such: a foot-pound is a unit of energy equal to the amount of energy required to raise a weight of one pound a distance of one foot. So a .223 Remington round exits the barrel with kinetic energy equal to the energy required for linear vertical displacement of 1250 pounds through a one foot distance, while a .45-70 Government round exiting the barrel has energy equal to the amount required to displace 2270 pounds over the same one foot distance. As a rule of thumb, when it comes to hunting, muzzle energy is what many hunters look at when deciding on what caliber of firearm / ammunition to select. Generally speaking, the higher the muzzle energy, the higher the stopping power. Again, the above is for comparative information purposes only, and you should consult the exact ballistics for the particular .223 Remington or .45-70 Government cartridge you’re looking at purchasing.

Please click the above links to take a look at all of the .223 Remington and .45-70 Government ammo we have in stock and ready to ship, and let us know any parting thoughts in the comment section below.

Foundry Outdoors is your trusted home for buying archery, camping, fishing, hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor gear online.

We offer cheap ammo and bulk ammo deals on the most popular ammo calibers. We have a variety of deals on Rifle Ammo, Handgun Ammo, Shotgun Ammo & Rimfire Ammo, as well as ammo for target practice, plinking, hunting, or shooting competitions. Our website lists special deals on 9mm Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 45-70 Ammo, 6.5 Creedmoor ammo, 300 Blackout Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 5.56 Ammo, Underwood Ammo, Buffalo Bore Ammo and more special deals on bulk ammo.

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Many people these days are transitioning from living in a city to living in the woods. And while it may seem like an unwise decision, living somewhere remote and secluded can give a lot of people the peace of mind they need. If you’re thinking of making the move to living in the woods, there are a few things that you should know to survive. Read on to find out how you can survive living in the woods.

Tips To Survive Living in the Woods

If you’ve lived in the city for a long time, you might find yourself longing for the simplicity of life in the woods. Though it may seem challenging, surviving in the wilderness is possible with the proper preparation. Here are a few tips to help you survive living in the woods:

1. Secure Your Home

The very first thing you need to do is make sure your home is secure. If you’re living in a cabin or some other type of small dwelling, fortify it as much as possible. Board up the windows, build a strong door and stockpile supplies. It’s also essential to have a good stash of weapons and ammunition on hand in case you need to defend your home from intruders. Make sure to check a review of the best survival rifles so that you’re prepared for anything.

Having a good relationship with your neighbors is essential in an area like this. If you can, try to team up with them and create a fortress where everyone can be safe.

2. Know Your Surroundings

Another important tip is to get to know your surroundings. Learn which plants are edible, where the freshwater sources are, and what animals you can expect to encounter. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the area’s weather patterns to prepare for extreme conditions.

If you take the time to learn about your surroundings and prepare for the worst, you’ll be much more likely to survive living in the woods.

3. Find a Source of Water

When you first move into the woods, one of the most important things you’ll need to do is find a water source. This can be a stream, river, lake, or natural spring. Once you’ve found a water source, you’ll need to purify the water before drinking it. Boiling the water for at least five minutes will kill any harmful bacteria.

While it’s not to say that you won’t have access to clean water from where you’ll be living, there is a possibility that you might lose water often because of things like power outages or line breaks. So, it’s always good to have a backup plan in place.

Another way to ensure that you always have a clean water supply is to collect rainwater. This can be done by simply placing a few barrels or buckets outside during a storm. Once the rain stops, you can use this water for drinking, cooking, or even bathing.

4. Learn How To Catch Fish and Hunt

One of the best ways to ensure that you have a steady food supply is to learn how to catch fish and hunt. This will not only provide you with a fresh source of food but can also be a fun activity to do in your spare time.

If you don’t want to eat meat, you still have plenty of options. There are many edible plants and berries that grow in the woods. With some research, you’ll be able to identify which ones are safe to eat.

While you can always head to town to purchase food, it’s always a good idea to have some stored away in an emergency. Canned goods, dried fruit, and nuts are all great options for long-term storage.

5. Stock up on Essentials

Living in the woods means not having easy access to civilization. Therefore, it’s important to stock up on essential supplies like food, water, and medicine. You should also have a first-aid kit on hand in case of injury. This should include essential items like bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It’s also a good idea to keep a few extra blankets around in case the temperature drops.

6. Learn Basic Survival Skills

Living in the woods would not be possible if you didn’t know some basic survival skills. Building a fire, purifying water, and shelter-building are all essential for surviving in the wild. There are many resources available that can teach you these skills. You can find books, websites, and even YouTube videos showing you what to do in different situations. Make sure to check these resources out before your move. This way, you’ll be prepared for anything that comes your way.

7. Watch Out for Wild Animals

Wild animals are one of the most dangerous things you’ll need to watch out for while living in the woods. Many animals call the woods their home, and only some of them are friendly. Bears, cougars, and snakes are just a few of the potential dangers you’ll need to be aware of.

The best way to avoid run-ins with wild animals is to ensure you’re always aware of your surroundings. If you see an animal, make a lot of noise so that it knows you’re there and will hopefully avoid you. You should always carry a weapon with you in case you come face-to-face with an aggressive animal.

So, there you have it! These are just a few of the things you’ll need to know if you’re planning on living in the woods. With a little bit of preparation, you can make sure that your experience is a positive one. In time, you’ll find that living in the woods is an enriching experience. Make sure to take care of yourself and always be aware of your surroundings.

From knives to backpacks and bikes, the accessories you bring into the deer woods can be game-changers. Here’s what’s new for 2024.

1. Trophyline Venatic Saddle

At a scant 20 ounces, the Venatic takes lightweight saddle hunting to another level. It weighs just 30 ounces with the bridge and carabiner, all the while keeping you safely elevated and mobile so you stay focused on what matters: the hunt. Manufactured entirely in the U.S.A., the Venatic is made of rugged ripstop fabric that’s breathable and deadly silent. It features a rubberized waistband, Raptor waist and leg strap buckles, a rigid rubber MOLLE band and two bands of additional MOLLE to keep you safe and stealthy. A saddle compression hook, durable foldback lineman loops and an adjustable waist buckle round out the Venatic, resulting in an innovative saddle that’s so comfortable you won’t even notice it’s there. Comes with a Prusik and Black Diamond carabiner. Pick up a Venatic and you’ll quickly realize you are sitting in the future of hunting saddles!

MSRP: $299.99 | trophyline.com

2. TrophylineSumpter Pack

Designed for remote-access hunting, the Sumpter Pack uses an aluminum frame to stay light and mobile. Its durable, lightweight nylon fabric resists tears while keeping the weight of the pack down to less than 6 pounds. The Sumpter includes not only a bow scabbard and a saddle pouch, but also a Meat sling with G hooks that deploys up and over the pack, providing plenty of storage for packing your deer out of the wildlands. An adjustable torso (16-19 inches) and a solid one-piece, breathable back panel make the Sumpter uber-comfortable, while 19 pockets keep all your gear organized and ready for use. Those filming their hunt will appreciate the camera arm/tripod sleeves, and everyone will find the Sumpter’s 2,600 cubic inches more than enough space for all hunting and survival gear. If you’ve been waiting for a rigid and robust pack that will handle your saddle gear and meat from your successful hunt, the Sumpter is the pack for you.

MSRP: $229.99 | trophyline.com

3. Outdoor Edge Razor Pro S

Expanding Outdoor Edge’s popular RazorPro family of knives, the new RazorPro S contains a bone saw made of 65 MN spring steel for wear resistance and the popular RazorPro 3.5-inch 420J2 stainless steel drop point blade. The RazorPro S has a rubberized TPR handle, replaceable RazorSafe blades and a spring steel saw with chrome coating, providing years of use for bowhunters and other outdoor enthusiasts. Like the RazorPro, the RazorPro S comes with six Drop Point replacement blades and a Kryptek camouflage sheath for storage and easy access. Best of all, it’s small enough to easily fit in your pocket or backpack, making it your go-to knife for field-dressing and other chores. The RazorPro S will be available in the spring of 2024, giving you a cutting-edge cutter that will effortlessly handle all your needs in the field.

MSRP: $89.99 | outdooredge.com

4. MTM Case-Gard Traveler Arrow Case

Bowhunters journeying to a weekend and/or out-of-state hunt will want the Traveler Arrow Case, a compact case that is only 2 inches thick and fits in most hard and soft bow cases. The Traveler holds up to six broadhead-tipped arrows and three practice arrows safely and securely, while additional internal storage between foam sets is perfect for storing small accessories. Constructed of rugged polypropylene, it will hold arrows up to 34 inches in length, while notched padding protects arrow fletching and keeps broadheads razor-sharp. Made in smoke color with clear-view windows, the arrow case provides unobstructed views of points and fletching. The Traveler is made in the U.S.A. and comes with a five-year guarantee. There’s also a Traveler Bolt Case for crossbow hunters.

MSRP: $18.41 | mtmcase-gard.com

5. Redline Bowhunting Scabbard

For hunters looking for a heavy-duty bow sling, meet the Redline Scabbard — a tough bow transportation aid that will enable you to traipse through the toughest hunting terrain with ease. It includes a padded shoulder strap for comfort, and a sight cover and padded cam covers to protect your valuable bow accessories. Mossy Oak camo keeps it concealed while traveling, while four-way-stretch material provides a custom fit for all bows. The sling accommodates bows 28-31 inches long and includes dual-clasp attachment points.

MSRP: $59.99 | redlinebowhunting.com

6. Bohning Black Sky 2.0 Bolts

The new BLACK SKY 2.0 and 3.0 crossbow bolts from Bohning Archery are the first fully finished bolts the company has produced, giving horizontal deer hunters accurate downrange precision out to 90 yards. The new bolts have been extensively tested on a variety of today’s most popular crossbows, producing amazingly accurate shots. For example, one testing sequence generated consistent sub-3-inch groups with a fixed-blade broadhead out to 92 yards using a crossbow that shoots 450 feet per second. Two models are available for crossbows both with and without rails. The Black Sky 3.0 uses a 3-inch Shield Cut Low Profile vane cut for railed bows, while the Black Sky 2.0 uses a 2-inch Leading Edge Blazer Vane Profile for crossbows without rails. Each package includes three bolts and Bohning’s 100-grain Premium Points that are guaranteed to be within 1/4 grain weight.

MRSP: $59.00 | bohning.com

7. QuietKat Ibex

Bowhunters who need to access the wild beyond will appreciate the Ibex, a full-suspension electric bicycle made for hunting, fishing and any other overland adventure you can think of. As sure-footed as the legendary Bigfoot, the Ibex can keenly scale the steepest mountains, while also enabling users to make swift descents over uneven ground. While the Ibex was built to effortlessly climb steep topography, it can also cut cleanly through wet snow and glide through bogs and other low country. The Ibex uses 4.8-inch CST tires and an upgraded FireLink 4-Bar rear suspension to produce ample 130mm of travel to command rugged terra. The Bafang UltraDrive motor delivers an incredible 1,000 watts, while the long-lasting 21Ah battery provides extra range to push farther into the deepest woods where whitetails lie low. And with Tektro hydraulic disc brakes and adjustable front and rear suspension, the Ibex keeps you comfortable and in control on unforgiving terrain.

MSRP: $6,799.00 | quietkat.com

8. Flambeau Scrapper Buck Decoy

Flambeau’s Scrapper Buck decoy is designed to agitate, not intimidate other deer. Its adolescent presentation is based on a carving by award-winning sculptor Chris Schiller. The decoy is designed to coax in any buck that’s looking to mark and protect its territory. The decoy’s inferior size and rack replicates that of an inferior 2½-year-old. The decoy’s legs store conveniently into the body cavity. Included are ground stakes, a faux tail and a blaze-orange carrying bag for safety in the field.

MSRP: $200 | flambeauoutdoors.com

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