5 Best Lithium Batteries For RV 2024 (and What To AVOID)

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June 10, 2026

By Jeff Johnston

My first gun was a Stevens 20-ga. single shot. It kicked the hell out of me and of course, was only good for one shot, so if I missed, I was screwed.

I was screwed a lot.

A few years after I proved to my father that my flinch was waning and I wasn’t a homicidal maniac, I received an 1100 semi-auto. It was superior in every way: most notably it was fun to shoot, and I could still kill a duck even after whiffing the first couple shots.

Now, don’t get me wrong: I think this “one shot one kill” sniper movie mantra is fantastic-until you blow your one shot … then it sucks. To me it seems downright stupid. You tell me what’s best: A: one-shot, no-kill, or B: two shots one kill? Better yet, three shots, five kills if you line ’em up right.

And that’s why my go-to rifle is a Browning BAR MK3 DBM. First produced in 1918 by John Browning, the original BAR (Browning Automatic Rifle) was good enough for our grandfathers to kill commies by the trench full, so you better believe it’s hell on deer, hogs, bears, and anything else that needs killin’. For driven hunts where the critters hightail it like fleeing Frenchmen, there’s nothing finer.

But make no mistake, today’s BAR is a longshot from your hero grandpappy’s. The new MK3 DBM is a synthetic stocked, 10-round detachable box magazine hunting/pseudo-battle rifle that Pelosi and co. would love to ban if they had any clue how badass it actually is. This modern Japanese-made (Miroku) boomstick handles like a A5 shotgun with its snappy 18-inch fluted pipe and grippy furniture.

I’ll admit the 10-round magazine is perhaps overkill for most hunting situations, but I do like it for one specific scenario: for shooting as many wild pigs as possible in one ambush. Quite often I’ll unleash one-shot that drops the biggest boar, then I’ll pull to the next hog that’s now hauling so fast that it’s rather like shooting a clay pigeon from station no 6. If I can kill two hogs in 3 or 4 quick shots with the BAR I’m doing good. With a bolt gun, I’d have no chance.

For deer hunting, I like the idea of having a quick backup shot, need it or not. Personally, I feel this gun handles and hunts better than any AR-10 I’ve ever used.

The thing is, the BAR’s short stroke gas piston system, legit (meaning well-fitting and practical) buttstock, and 7.6-pound heft make it the lightest-recoiling rifle out there, so much that when chambered in a sweet shooter like .308 Win. I can often see impact through the scope. If you can email me the name of a handier, easier shooting and more deadly all-around rifle, I’ll pick up your next bar tab and say thanks.

Historically bolt-action snobs have offered up three reasons against semi-auto rifles. The first is a nostalgic love affair with a man named Jack O’Connor and his love affair with his Winchester Model 70. Yes, it’s a love triangle and it’s weird, but it offers no explanation why a BAR wouldn’t have also killed sheep just as dead.

Then there are those who say semiautos are inherently unreliable. To that, I say remember the M1 Garand? What about a Benelli M2? A Glock? Yea those POSs hardly ever work. If kept clean, slick, and stoked with full power-loads-none of this reduced-recoil crap-a BAR is as reliable as you’ll ever need for hunting. But even if you lived in the Panamanian jungle for three months straight, shot every day, and had no access to WD-40, I’d still bet that if you pulled the trigger the gun will fire that first chambered round, and I’d be right 100 out of 100 times. And it’ll fire the 2nd and 3rd rounds about 99 percent of the time.

“But you can’t hit a U-Haul truck at 50 yards with one,” say others. Oh yea? When’s the last time you shot a new BAR? Most of them are 1.25- to 1.5-inch rifles out of the box with any ammo, and with a little experimentation to find what it prefers, plenty are sub-inchers.

But I’m not here to sell guns for Browning. I just happen to love this rifle. If I have one complaint (more of a wish, really) it would be this: because of the gas system, most do not respond well if fitted with a suppressor, and I love suppressors for hunting. But that’s about it. I love how the gun handles, that it’s completely impervious to the elements with its synthetic/matte black finish and that its receiver is pre-fitted with Picatinny rails so scope mounting is a snap. Oh yea, that and it holds 10 rounds of critter-killin .308.

For those rare times when I’m feeling like Tom Beringer in the movie Sniper and go for one shot, one kill, I just load one round. But for all other times (i.e. always) I stack the mag to the gills and feel much better about my chances in the real world.

Around $1500 ; browning.com

The skinny on snoods, wattles and wishbones

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June 10, 2026

But after decades of restocking the population, there are now about seven million wild turkeys in North America.

The turkey is a variety of pheasant. Archaeological evidence suggests turkeys roamed North America as far back as 10 million years ago. Native Americans domesticated them about 2,000 years ago.

A male turkey is called a “tom” and a female turkey a “hen.” A large group of turkeys is called a “flock.”

Wild turkeys are found in hardwood forests with grassy areas. They spend the night in trees. They have excellent vision and hearing but don’t see well at night. They can fly short distances at speeds of up to 90 km/h and can run at speeds of up to 40 km/h.

Domesticated turkeys do not fly — because of selective breeding — and aren’t likely to run very much, either. By the time the average turkey is ready for your table, it has been so fattened up at the factory farm that it has as much chance of achieving flight as you do.

It takes 17 to 20 weeks to raise a turkey that weighs 10.8 kilograms or more. That bird will have consumed around 30 kilograms of feed while it was alive.

Canada is one of the world’s biggest producers of turkeys. According to Statistics Canada, Canadian farmers produced 180,000 tonnes of turkey in 2008. That’s an increase of 6.5 per cent from the previous year.

Canadian consumption of turkey has remained relatively stable over the past two decades — at around 2.2 kilograms per person per year. However, production has increased substantially as Canadian turkey exports have grown by 30 per cent since 2001.

The top turkey-eating country in the world is Israel, at 11.5 kg per person every year. Here’s how other countries measure up, per person per year:

United States: 7.7 kg.
France: 5.9 kg.
United Kingdom: 4.8 kg.
European Union: 4.0 kg.

Table of Contents

Why is this type of poultry called ‘turkey’?
Why do turkeys gobble?
What are those fleshy things on turkey heads?
Are there different breeds?
Why does turkey have white and dark meat?
What’s with the wishbone? Does it serve a purpose?
Why can’t I buy turkey eggs at the supermarket?
Why do I feel sleepy after eating turkey?
What’s with the cranberry sauce and stuffing?

Why is this type of poultry called ‘turkey’?

There are several theories:

The Native American name for turkey is “firkee.”
The wild turkey’s call sounds like “turk-turk-turk.”
Christopher Columbus named them “titka,” which is the word for peacock in the Tamil language of India. Columbus thought the New World was connected to India.

Why do turkeys gobble?

Male turkeys gobble; hens make a clicking sound. The gobble is a seasonal call for the males. They also gobble when they hear loud noises and when they settle in for the night.

What are those fleshy things on turkey heads?

Are there different breeds?

Common domesticated breeds include: Bronze, Broad Breasted Bronze, Broad Breasted Large White, Black, Bourbon Red, White Holland, Narragansett and Beltsville Small White.

Why does turkey have white and dark meat?

For the same reason that chicken does: the legs and thighs contain dark meat because the muscles are more heavily exercised from walking and contain more fat than the meat that comes from the breast. White meat has less oxygen-carrying myoglobin than dark meat. The more work a muscle does — whether you’re a bird or a person — the more oxygen it needs.

What’s with the wishbone? Does it serve a purpose?

The superstition goes that when you find a wishbone, two people should each grasp one part of the wishbone pull; whoever is holding the longest part when it breaks will have their wish come true.

For turkeys — at least the ones who spend their life in the wild — the wishbone, which is called the furcula, is key to strengthening their skeleton to withstand the rigors of flight. It’s formed by the fusion of the two clavicles at the sternum.

The bone is elastic, allowing it to act as a spring that stores and releases energy during flight.

Why can’t I buy turkey eggs at the supermarket?

Turkeys also tend to be far more protective of their eggs than chickens. They’ll stay with them until they hatch and do what they can to keep you away from them.

Why do I feel sleepy after eating turkey?

Probably because you’ve had too much of it, combined with too much dessert and maybe too much of other stuff as well.

Yes, turkey contains an amino acid called L-tryptophan, which the human body needs to build certain proteins. The body uses L-tryptophan to make serotonin, which has a tranquilizing effect.

However, many foods contain the same amino acid — and in much greater quantities than turkey. Ever feel sleepy after eating raw soybeans? Maybe you should. They contain more than twice the levels of L-tryptophan than turkey does.

What’s with the cranberry sauce and stuffing?

It’s believed Native Americans taught the colonialists how to cook cranberries and different kinds of corn, squash and pumpkin dishes.

The origins of stuffing are not certain. Some experts say it’s a traditional dish made from bread and vegetables and most probably originated in Eastern Europe.

Do Gamo Air Rifles Use CO2?

By

Sean Campbell

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June 10, 2026

“Unveiling the Truth: Do Gamo Air Rifles Utilize CO2? Discover the inner workings of Gamo air rifles and unravel the mystery surrounding their power source. Gain valuable insights into whether these renowned air rifles employ CO2 technology or rely on alternative mechanisms for optimal performance. Get ready to demystify the world of Gamo air rifles!”

do gamo air rifles use co2

Gamo air rifles do not use CO2 as their power source. Instead, Gamo air rifles typically utilize a different power system known as a spring-piston mechanism. This mechanism relies on a spring that is compressed when the rifle is cocked and then released when the trigger is pulled, propelling the pellet forward with significant force. This spring-powered design offers several advantages over CO2-powered rifles, including more consistent power output and the ability to shoot in various weather conditions without being affected by temperature fluctuations.

In addition to spring-powered models, Gamo also produces air rifles powered by pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) systems. These PCP air rifles rely on a high-pressure air reservoir that stores compressed air, which is then released to propel the pellet when the trigger is pulled. PCP air rifles offer excellent accuracy and can provide multiple shots per fill, making them popular among serious target shooters and hunters who require precision and power.

In conclusion, Gamo air rifles do not use CO2 as their power source. These rifles are typically powered by a spring or gas piston mechanism, making them more reliable and cost-effective in the long run. So, for those considering purchasing a Gamo air rifle, they can be assured that no CO2 cartridges are needed for operation.

Best Budget PCP Air Rifles – Top 7 Affordable Air Guns (Reviews & Buying Guide 2025)

By

Sean Campbell

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June 10, 2026

While most shooting enthusiasts would tell you that the real experience of a hunt can only be felt when you have a traditional shotgun, I would like to tell you otherwise. There is nothing better than a good old PCP air rifle.

Not only am I saving a lot on pellets after the switch to these air guns, but it was also very easy to get one as it’s not considered a firearm.

I also got to choose from a wide variety, since they are legal. As a fan of rifles, I felt like a kid at a candy store while looking at all the models and coming across some really impressive numbers.

This is why I have made this very listicle about some of the best budget PCP air rifles I came across. If you are interested, feel free to read on!

Table of Contents

Best Budget PCP Air Rifle
1. Air Venturi Avenger
2. Beeman QB Chief
3. Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2
4. Hatsan Flash QE
5. Umarex Gauntlet
6. Gamo Urban
7. Diana Storm Rider
Final Thoughts

Best Budget PCP Air Rifle

If you are in a hurry, here is an overview of the highlight candidates in our list of best budget PCP air rifles in 2025:

IMAGE	PRODUCT	DETAILS	LINK
Best Overall	Air Venturi Avenger	Calibers: .177, .22, .25 Max Velocity: 1000 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 45 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Best Budget	Beeman QB Chief	Calibers: .22 Max Velocity: 850 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 46 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Top Pick	Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2	Calibers: .177, .22 Max Velocity: 950 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 25 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Top Pick	Hatsan Flash QE	Calibers: .177, .22, .25 Max Velocity: 1250 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 40 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Best Regulated	Umarex Gauntlet	Calibers: .22, .25 Max Velocity: 900 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 21 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Top Pick	Gamo Urban	Calibers: .22 Max Velocity: 800 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 25 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot
Top Pick	Diana StormRider	Calibers: .177, .22 Max Velocity: 1050 FPS Max Muzzle Energy: 26 FPE	check price on Pyramydair check price on airgundepot

1. Air Venturi Avenger

If you were saving money up for a traditional gun, consider changing your priority to buying the Air Venturi Avenger PCP gun instead.

Not only is it decently priced at around $300 (changes may vary according to store and website), it has a lot of extra features that outshine what you might get in a regular shotgun.

At a decent .22 caliber (5.5 mm), the gun has a magazine capacity of 10 rounds. With a weight of around 6lbs, the gun is a beautiful, matte-like black color along with a fully shrouded barrel .

The stock is synthetic and the gun even has a Picatinny rail section on the front of the stock for mounting accessories like lasers and bipods.

The PCP is a repeating air rifle that has an external regulator up to 3000pst/210 bar and a max fill pressure of 4351 psi/300 bar. The trigger is adjustable and comes with a safety manual. The shooting experience has a phenomenal response from users as the gun seems to have it all – appearance, speed, accuracy, and consistency .

The following is a compilation of the accuracy of the Air Venturi Avenger when used with different types of pellets.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	884.18 FPS	36.71 FPE	Great
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	978.75 FPS	22 FPE	Great (best for long-range)
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	935.83 FPS	18.61 FPE	Best
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	970 FPS	38.1 FPE	Best
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	919.55 FPS	27.53 FPE	Great (best for long-range)

As you can see, domed-shaped pellets like H&N Field Target Trophy and JSB Diablo Extract are the best for your Air Venturi Avenger.

It is no doubt that with its consistency, accuracy, and price, people are loving the Air Venturi Avenger .

The best part feature of this gun is probably the number of extra features it has and how adjustable it is with accessories. If you are a beginner at PCPs and shooting, I recommend you get this gun as a starter .

Pros	Cons
Affordable Great accuracy Lightweight and continuous shooting Lots of additional features Great appearance	Stock adjustability Need to empty air to decrease regulator

2. Beeman QB Chief

The Beeman QB Chief is another affordable PCP that allows you to get more for a lesser amount. The rifle has a max velocity of 1000 FPS (in .177) which allows this stylish gun to shoot up to 50 rounds at .177 cal and 35 rounds at .22 cal.

The PCP is a bolt-action, single-shot gun that comes with a safety manual for protection as well.

Owners of this gun have commended how smooth the gun’s trigger adjustment is and how, with a little modification, they could achieve great accuracy.

With a 2000 psi fill pressure, the gun gives powerful shots with each reloading. The gun also comes with an included fiber optic sight that they can mount on the 11mm Dovetail rail.

The following table is a test done to show how different pellets work with the Beeman QB Chief PCP air gun.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	999.97 FPS	46.95 FPE	Best
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	978.75 FPS	22 FPE	Great
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	935.83 FPS	18.61 FPE	Best
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	970 FPS	38.1 FPE	Great
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	919.55 FPS	27.53 FPE	Great

Considering the fact that this rifle comes with such prominent and powerful features, you might assume that it is priced expensively. However, this budget-friendly gun is priced at around $250 (changes according to sellers) which is a decent price for a good gun.

Another additional feature of this gun is its traditional looks, which appeals to fans of regular rifles. As a combination of good looks, affordability, and accuracy, the Beeman QB Chief will definitely leave you shocked with its great performance.

Pros	Cons
Maximum 2000 FPS at an affordable rate Classy, traditional design with wooden stock Extreme accuracy Adjustable Value for money	Hard to load for some owners Comparatively louder than other rifles

3. Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2

If you are someone who enjoys the feel of an adjustable rifle at hand, the Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2 might just be the air gun for you.

Priced decently at around $320 (depending on the seller), the PCP comes with a lot of features that can give competition to a lot of high-end guns out there.

The company Benjamin is known for its great guns, and the Fortitude Gen 2 combines the best features of all its good guns.

With a regulated 3000 PSI cylinder, it allows you to shoot consistently for about 10 rounds. With a maximum velocity of about 950 FPS, reviews have said that the gun is built for long, consistent shot strings.

Another treat for its buyer is its many adjustable features. The Fortitude Gen 2 has an adjustable spring tension which can be tampered with to get more power. Those who want more shots can counter-adjust it to reduce velocities and get up to 200 shots.

Weighing just around 5.3 lbs, it is easy to carry even in the roughest of weather as its stock is made to mount a sling. The following is a table to show the performance of the Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2 air rifle.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	729.69 FPS	25 FPE	Decent
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	978.75 FPS	22 FPE	Great
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	946.49 FPS	17.05 FPE	Best
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	785.78 FPS	25 FPE	Decent
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	876.24 FPS	25 FPE	Great

With so many features and additional add-ons, the Benjamin Fortitude Gen 2 makes for a great beginner’s rifle, as well as a perfect weapon for plinking enthusiasts. This is the gun that you can practice with for hours on end. Not to forget, company Benjamin is a renowned manufacturer that you can easily trust when buying your first rifle.

Pros	Cons
Great accuracy Affordability Ambidextrous stock Highly adjustable with all sorts of accessories Includes sling mounts Lightweight	Stock is made of plastic

4. Hatsan Flash QE

If you are a plinking enthusiast like me with your backyard as your training field, I recommend getting the Hatsan Flash QE.

This air gun is a silent killer that allows you to shoot at great accuracy with its amazing features that come at the affordable price of just about $320 (changes may vary according to sellers).

The bolt action air rifle has a maximum velocity of 1250 FPS at a .177 caliber which gives you high accuracy and power at a very affordable rate.

Although it is a great gun for plinking, it is also well suited for taking out on a hunt as it is suitable for all weather conditions with its synthetic, skeleton stock.

The gun is lightweight, with a lightness of only 5.9 lbs. It also comes with a fully shrouded barrel and a quick fill nozzle that prevents the wastage of any gas in case the rifle comes in contact with a force.

Hatsan Flash QE is regulated at a rate of 2900 psi that allows for at least 35 shots per fill.

The following is an accuracy test conducted to understand the performance of the Hatsan Flash QE air gun.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	923 FPS	40 FPE	Great
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	1023 FPS	24.03 FPE	Best
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	935.83 FPS	18.61 FPE	Great
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	993.94 FPS	40 FPE	Great
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	1108.37 FPS	40 FPE	Best

With 2 indexing magazines and a single shot stray, Hatsan Flash QE combines everything you need in a beginner’s PCP rifle to give you the best performance and plinking experience.

Pros	Cons
Skeletonized synthetic stock Anti-knock out system that prevents wastage of gas Adjustable cheek piece and wheel Many features at affordable price Lightweight	No regulator Magazines are not the best

5. Umarex Gauntlet

Umarex is a popular gun brand and the Umarex Gauntlet is one of its best products – fortunately, at an affordable price of around $329 as well.

The rifle gives its user a good balance of weight, accuracy, and great power in each of its immense shot strings.

The Umarex Gauntlet has an onboard regulator tank of around 3000 psi that allows it to shoot with great accuracy and power. The gun has been tested and the results show that you can achieve the following number of shots based on each caliber – 60 (.22 cal) and 70 (.177 cal).

You can get up to 10 shots each round and the moderated barrel will let no sound disturb your neighborhood when you are on a hunting or plinking spree.

The trigger is adjustable and the dovetail rail is about 11mm. The following is a test conducted on the accuracy of the Umarex Gauntlet.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	661.25 FPS	20.53 FPE	Decent
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	945.49 FPS	20.53 FPE	Great
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	982.79 FPS	20.53 FPE	Best
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	712.07 FPS	20.53 FPE	Decent
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	794.05 FPS	20.53 FPE	Decent

Another forgettable but very useful feature is its adjustable cheek piece. Most of the time, even if your gun has great numbers, it can be difficult to enjoy when you are not comfortable holding it.

Pros	Cons
Reputable manufacturer Silent and consistent Highly adjustable Affordable and stylish Highly accurate	Slightly heavy

6. Gamo Urban

The Gamo Urban PCP air rifle has been commended as a good starter gun for beginners as it has all the basic, necessary features one requires in a rifle.

The gun comes with a removable rotary magazine and has 11mm dovetail grooves. It looks sleek and the barrel is hammer-forged into its modern design.

The maximum velocity is around 800 FPS which allows the rifle to shoot multiple times in rotations. The gun has a built-in air pressure gauge which has a quick-fill port system and comes with an integrated Whisper Maxxim silencer at the front end.

As you can tell, the manufacturers have not only taken into consideration adding great features to this rifle, but also made sure it was designed practically and attractively.

The Shock Wave Absorber (SWA) has a rubber recoil pad that also keeps your shoulder safe from recoil and reduces the action by up to 74%.

The following table is a test on the Gamo Urban to test its performance and accuracy.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	717.33 FPS	24.16 FPE	Great
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	799.03 FPS	14.66 FPE	Best
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	618.03 FPS	8.12 FPE	Decent
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	772.46 FPS	24.16 FPE	Best
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	783.06 FPS	19.97 FPE	Best

The rifle takes care of its owner’s safety and it is great to have a rifle that works silently and powerfully as well. Although its 3-Medium loudness makes it appropriate for pest hunting, the Gamo Urban is more beneficial for stealthily hunting and catching prey.

Pros	Cons
Affordability combined with adjustability Practical design that is also helpful Shock Wave Absorber Ambidextrous thumbhole All-weather stock	Stiff triggers for some people

7. Diana Storm Rider

The company Diana has been a dependable manufacturer of airguns since the year 1892 and it is a recommendable brand for budget-friendly PCPs.

The design resembles that of a regular gun with a synthetic wooden stock and an integrated muzzle brake moderator.

The maximum fill pressure of the regulator is 2900 psi and the gun is a bolt action type of weapon with an adjustable trigger. The maximum muzzle velocity is around 1050 FPS (.177 cal) which means that one filling will allow you to have at least 40 shots.

The gun is lightweight at the size of 4.6 lbs, so your hunting experience will be an easy one.

The rifle comes with a manual, a 9-shot magazine, and a black, synthetic stock for your gun. Since its firing sound is very low at a 2-Low-Medium, this gun is perfect for use at any time of the day.

The following table is a test on the performance of the Diana Stormrider air rifle and its accuracy.

Pellet	Velocity (FPS)	FPE	Accuracy
H&N Baracuda Match (21.14 Grain)	744.14 FPS	26 FPE	Decent
JSB Diabolo Exact(10.34 Grain)	1048.02 FPS	25.22 FPE	Best
H&N Baracuda Hunter Extreme(9.57 Grain)	935.83 FPS	18.61 FPE	Great
JSB Jumbo(18.23 Grain)	1005.03 FPS	40.9 FPE	Best
H&N Field Target Trophy (14.66 Grain)	893.60 FPS	26 FPE	Great

The trigger is a comfortable one and the rear sight is adjustable for both windage and elevation.

Overall, the rifle puts together a great package for whoever uses it and is a comfortable pick for both the new and the experienced.

Pros	Cons
Adjustable and affordable Silent Flexible purpose Comfortable	Little loud compared to silenced air guns. Small size of magazine.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing better than a good old PCP air rifle. While I do enjoy using regular shotguns and the whole process of shooting with them, I would choose a cheap PCP air gun over one of those heavy-on-the-pocket-and-hands weapons any day. Ever since I got myself one, I have taken every chance to go out, aim and shoot.

While those around me might not be pleased by my newfound love for plinking ever since I got a PCP, I really wanted to share all about these amazing budget rifles with those who might share the same enthusiasm for these weapons as me.

Yachting World

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June 10, 2026

When it comes to picking the best boat accessories of any year, the Marine Equipment Trade Show (METS) is the place to be, where many brands launch their latest gadgets and tech due to hit the market. Every year the Yachting World team attends this event to get the inside line on the newest gadgets coming to the boating world.

METS is also the location of the illustrious DAME awards with one overall winner, five category winners and lots of special mentions, all of which form a good list of the best boat accessories and tech for 2024.

We’ve picked out our favourite award winners and looked at some of the other eye-catching innovations to bring you our list of the best boating kit for 2024.

Ocean Signal rescueMe PLB3

What is it? The first compact MOB beacon to combine AIS and satellite technology Who’s it for? Each and every person who puts to sea, particularly leisure sailors

This new personal beacon arguably presents the best possible chance for a MOB casualty to be rescued, even if they are incapacitated.

Ocean Signal has specialised in making compact antennae and personal beacons over the last decade. And, while you’ll have to forgive the barrage of acronyms, this rescueME PLB3 is very much the product many of us have been waiting for since personal MOB AIS beacons first started coming on the market.

By integrating Cospas Sarsat beacon technology, as used by global rescue services, with AIS, it has created the most powerful means of alerting others to a MOB or distress situation.

For those in VHF proximity to other vessels, the AIS MOB signal offers the most likely chance of a quick rescue. If this signal is not received by a vessel within range, then the 406MHz global satellite system will trigger a response suitable for the location.

The PLB3 combines GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) positioning, 406MHz and 121.5MHz signals, plus the new Galileo Return Link Service (RLS) technology, which alerts users that their signal has been received, all within a unit the size of a conventional hand flare.

It also manages to include Near Field Communications (NFC), a clever and current method for users to monitor their beacon’s performance and maintenance requirements. This technology can help show a live digital record of the beacon by simply placing your phone within its range. An important benefit of this is knowing how much battery life is left – this PLB has a five year battery life but the battery is not rechargeable.

It features manual or auto activation and each PLB3 is registered, so if accidentally activated its owner will receive a phone call. But there is also an ‘off’ button, and you can check on the mobile app the amount of time it was activated for.

So why has this not been done before? Ocean Signal explained that until now there have been separate AIS and PLB standards, but that its engineering expert Simon Nolan sat on a committee to rewrite the regulations and help push through what is equivalent to a new EPIRB standard. The challenge was combining technologies at such a compact physical size while providing the battery power necessary to run the alarm for the required 24 hours.

“We could probably have got this one out earlier but to physically shrink battery size it needed a lot of work on it,” Nolan told us.

The DAME jury, a panel of experts looking at design and innovation at the METS, is chaired by designer Andre Hoek and includes former YW editor Elaine Bunting. The jury said: ‘in a rescue situation speed is always of the essence and this unit provides the very best chance for survival through this combination of long- and short-range detection.’ The waterproof rescueME PLB3 weighs 190g, measures 200x36x30mm and is now approved for sale in the UK and Europe.

See more at Ocean Signal

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Integrel Next Generation

What is it? A very high output alternator that can replace traditional generators, plus hybrid propulsion options Who’s it for? Cruising yachts with power generation requirements above 5kW per day

Four years ago Integrel launched an intelligent system allied to an extra large 9kW belt-driven alternator that makes use of the spare capacity that’s intrinsic in marine diesel engine installations. It was overall winner of the 2018 DAME awards and is now fitted as standard on an increasing number of new yachts, including all Balance Catamarans, which no longer have an optional diesel generator. It also features on the options list for many yards. High-profile clients include Riley Whitelum and Elayna Carausu of YouTube channel Sailing La Vagabond.

During the Covid lockdowns, when the company’s engineers were unable to travel internationally to complete or advise on installations, Integrel invested heavily in product development, massively accelerating the launch of new equipment, resulting in three new Next Generation products that won this year’s DAME awards Machinery, Propulsion, Mechanical and Electrical category.

The Integrel Inline performs exactly the same task as the original big alternator. However, instead of being a belt-driven device, it has a thin 10kW, 48V ‘pancake’ alternator that slots between the engine and gearbox. This lengthens the drivetrain by only 20cm, and dispenses with the belt drive to significantly reduce routine maintenance. It’s suitable for engines from around 30hp-200hp. The Integrel Plus is a powerful hybrid propulsion and charging solution, with an electric motor rated at 30kW continuous and 50kW peak output at the back of the diesel engine. This serves two functions – it can be used for propulsion over shorter distances and at lower speeds, such as when entering or leaving port. Alternatively it can be used as a massive alternator/generator to charge a 40kW battery bank when the diesel motor is running.

The final new item, the Integrel Ultra, has a Torque Boost function, for planing motoryachts that need a big burst of power for a few seconds to get on the plane, before throttling back to a comfortable cruising speed. Incorporating an electric motor with 100kW continuous (150kW peak) rating into the drivetrain allows that short-term boost power to come from batteries, rather than internal combustion engines. The engines can therefore be up to 40% smaller, reducing weight and significantly improving efficiency at cruising speeds. At displacement speeds the electric motor can be used as a very high-output alternator to recharge the battery bank, thereby rendering a separate generator unnecessary.

See more at Integrel Solutions

Simarine Nereide 3

This digital switching brand is increasingly popular on new yachts and its third generation product received a DAME nomination. New features include 80% lower power consumption, a bigger LCD screen, and soft labels for each of the 18 hard-wired tactile aluminium switches on the boat’s main panel.

This allows boatbuilders and owners to quickly and easily change the function of any switch to best suit the equipment fitted to an individual boat, or to neatly incorporate extra kit added after the boat leaves the factory. Button labels can be either static, or dynamic, with the latter combining multiple functions on a single button. For instance, you could have a single button for refrigeration that brings up a further menu with a switch for each individual fridge and freezer unit on board.

The system can therefore be used to control a huge number of devices, with a minimum of complexity for the end user. There are also separate modules for bilge pumps and for the main power switches. At the same time, it also includes back up manual switches and fuses, while Simarine’s excellent Pico battery and tank level monitoring display is built into the main Nereide 3 display. It’s also designed for plug-and-play compatibility with Sentinel Marine’s BM-50 Remote Management System.

See more at Simarine

Aqua superPower

As electric propulsion becomes more and more widely adopted, the need for fast electric charging escalates. Aqua superPower is rolling out the world’s first dedicated global marine fast charging network across Europe and the US. Its knowledge and experience stems from the automotive world (it built up the UK network for automotive fast chargers). Aqua offers the backend part, the safe chargers for docks and marinas, using IP-65-rated waterproof hardware.

Typical shorepower connections are designed for slow overnight charging, whereas superPower uses ultrafast 25kW-150kW DC charging. This gives the potential to recharge battery power on both leisure and commercial boats to over 60% in just 40 minutes. Considering the mix of high voltage with the marine environment, a key component is Aqua’s use of CCS Type 2 standard connectors, which the company says are completely safe, even if dropped in the water.

Its business model is aimed at encouraging marinas to install them on a long lease.

With the demand for higher and higher charges comes the need for faster chargers. “Our network is designed to create a seamless user experience that is accessible to boat users via the Aqua app or RFID card, enabling users to view a map showing charger locations, offering navigational aids, and managing charging sessions,” says CEO Alex Bamberg.”

See more at Aqua superPower

Cyclops Marine Wireless Load Pin

Over the past 15 years load sensing has changed from a technology in its infancy even on the latest IMOCA 60s to widespread use in fleets such as J/70s and two-handed racing in small offshore yachts. Part of this is down to companies such as Cyclops Marine producing streamlined systems that are simple to swap for the original components, thus making retrofitting very easy.

Yet the results can be dramatic. Kate Cope, organiser of the UK double-handed offshore series told us that when she fitted one to her Sun Fast 3200R2 it showed she was 400kg short of forestay tension when sailing upwind in strong breezes. Cranking on more backstay boosted boat speed by 5-8% by preventing the boat being overpowered, thereby reducing heel and rudder drag.

The Cyclops Marine Wireless Load Pin was DAME nominated as its a straightforward drop-in replacement for a standard rigging pin and is the first load pin that doesn’t need to be wired in. The 27.5mm size entered in the DAME awards is suitable for the cap shrouds of 55ft cruising catamarans (which allows an alarm to be set to warn of the boat becoming close to being overpowered) or the forestay of a similar sized racing monohull.

See more at Cyclops Marine

ePropulsion I-20 electric inboard

ePropulsion’s I range of electric inboard motors for shaft drive boats is intended to be easy to fit on existing engine beds. This makes retrofitting easy and allows boatbuilders to offer both diesel and electric propulsion for the same model.

Initially the range consists of three models, at 10, 20 and 40kW, equivalent to 30, 55 and 75hp diesel inboards respectively. The smaller unit is air-cooled, while water cooling is recommended for the larger two. All have integrated battery management systems to simplify installation and save space. At the same time the company launched a complementary 96V 10kW G-series lithium-ion phosphate battery.

As with all other ePropulsion units, regeneration is included at standard. Real-world testing has yet to take place, but for the I-20 unit calculations show 250W at 5 knots of boat speed, 500W at 6 knots of speed and 1,300W at 8 knots.

See more at ePropulsion

Karver KJSK

This French company won a special mention for its Karver Jammer Staysail Kit (KJSK), an easy set-up for rigging an inner forestay for a heavy weather or storm jib.

It’s designed for use with furling sails that incorporate their own textile forestay and Karver recommends a halyard lock to eliminate movement and wear over the sheave.

Tensioning is via a 3:1 tackle that can be taken directly aft to a winch, using a snatchblock if necessary to create a fair lead. Once taught, the built-in cleat allows this line to be taken off the winch and coiled up out of the way. Attachment to the deck is via either metallic fastenings or high-tech lashing.

See more at Karver

Mantus dinghy navlight

This looks like a handy tricolour light for use on a dinghy which could also double as an emergency navigation light. The light has US Coast Guard approval for two miles. It has five modes including tricolour and bicolour and it’s possible to select between the three colours – for use as only a stern light for example. The Mantus light is waterproof to IPX8 and has fittings to allow it to clamp onto a rail, or attach to an engine cowling using a 3M pad. Where the base is permanent the body can quickly disconnect which makes it useful for USB charging. A full three hour charge gives the light approximately eight hours use – which should prove plenty for dinghy use.

See more at Mantus Marine

Secumar Furio

Watersports enthusiasts typically rely only on buoyancy aids, rather than full lifejackets that will support a casualty’s head above the water if they become unconscious. However, that’s far from an ideal situation, especially for those who are becoming older, or are practising watersports in an area without immediate safety cover.

The Furio is a solution – it’s a conventional buoyancy aid with 50N of flotation, plus features a PLB pouch, back protection and integrated provision for a harness hook. However, it also has a 110N inflatable bladder that transforms it into a full manually activated 160N lifejacket.

See more at Secumar

Regatta Safelock

A shocking statistic from the RNLI’s free lifejacket inspections a few years ago was that the inflation cylinders of roughly one third of those checked were not fully screwed home and therefore at risk of not inflating properly. Regatta and Aalesund Protective Wear have solved the problem with this neat friction device that physically prevents the cylinder rotating after installation.

The two models offered enable retrofitting to the almost ubiquitous UML MK5 and Pro Sensor Elite lifejacket trigger mechanisms. DAME judges praised the Safelock, saying it was: ‘An excellent example of how clever design thinking can resolve long-standing problems.’

See more at Regatta

Rooster Aquafleece Robe

Changing robes may have become the ubiquitous watersports fashion statement, but at least they have a practical element. This is a versatile offering from Rooster as it has a removable, washable fleece lining.

Founder Steve Cockerill explained to us that his company wanted to offer a changing robe, but “we wanted to do something different, make it unique.” It uses Rooster’s proven durable Aquafleece material as the outer layer, which is a fully waterproof PU coated fleece, permeable but not enough to call breathable. Inside is a teddy fleece liner made from recycled polyester, which can be removed to be washed and so kept fresh.

See more at Rooster Sailing

Boatasy Ropecleaner

From the makers of Ghook comes another ‘simple works best’ product for cleaning the typically muddy and barnacle encrusted stern docking lines found in many marinas, particularly in the Med. During its studies Boatasy found that giving a rectangular shape to the spiral metal works best on dock lines and its tool makes it quick and easy to attach onto lines up to 32mm diameter. The sharp inside edges of the stainless steel cut away algae, dirt and shells, says sales manager Gregor Jeretič. He estimates that just 10 minutes of using this to clean the lines three times a year is all that would be needed to keep them fouling free and without needing to hire a diver or using chemicals.

See more at Boatasy

Roll-up emergency VHF antenna

Historically, emergency VHF antennas had a short and stubby antenna, which can limit range. Shakespeare improved on this a couple of years ago with the inflatable Galaxy INFL8-5 VHF antenna, which incorporates a full-length aerial.

Revolve, a spin-off of a firm producing roll-up antennae using carbon fibre for military and search and rescue use, is now employing the same technology to produce a 2.5m high antenna with a 3/4 wave dipole antenna embedded within the laminate. It takes only seconds to unroll and includes a strobe light at the top. It won a DAME special mention.

The company also produces a roll-up boat hook with accessories including soft and hard bristle deck brush heads.

See more at Revolvetec

Foam anchor

Deck and sunlounging cushions, together with saloon seat backs are big business today. But they need to stay in place – how many broken buttons or Velcro fastenings have you seen? Here is a simple but practical solution which uses powerful magnets embedded in the foam of cushions, rather than trying to connect fabric to fabric.

The New Zealand company claims they will last forever and will not rust as they use aircraft grade epoxy coated magnets and marine grade stainless steel fixings. Depending on the application, either strips or single points can be used and after installation they are invisible. Magnets can even be glued behind surfaces so they’re not visible. They can be retrofitted into any furniture and all cover materials.

See more at Foam-Anchor

If you enjoyed this….

Shed Antler Hunting 101

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June 10, 2026

Many deer and elk hunters consider antlers to be a major part of the pursuit. To others, antlers are important only to determine the legality of a buck or bull in areas where there are minimum antler tine restrictions. Hunters interested only in meat could care less about what the animal wears on its head. A cow elk or doe deer is most welcome. But those antlers have another value. Each year, in mid to late winter, all members of the deer family (all subspecies of deer, elk, moose and caribou) shed their antlers. The peak of the shedding season depends on the region. For example, bucks in Florida may shed at a different time than bucks in Texas.

Shed hunting has been growing in popularity for several reasons. One is simply the thrill of discovering an antler lying on the ground. To many, especially folks from more urban areas, this is a big deal. The antler will be cherished and perhaps displayed in their home. Hunters also use sheds as clues betraying the patterns of deer. The location of the shed tells the hunter that the buck was present in that spot in the winter. Perhaps the buck was the target animal that had been viewed via trail cams. The discovery of a particular shed may reassure hunters that the buck survived the season. Now that he’s minus his antlers the buck will hopefully be around next season with even larger antlers. Hunters who want to become familiar with deer behavior and habits in new country can get a good idea of the quality of bucks by locating sheds. Finally, sheds can be worth big bucks (pun intended). In fact, according to serious shed collectors, antler buyers paid more last year for antlers than ever before. Sit down while you read this. Elk antlers were going for $19.50 per pound. Ok, you say, how does that relate to the value of that antler. Consider this— the average weight of a single six-point antler from a mature bull is right at 10 pounds, give or take a pound. If you have the other antler, you have 20 pounds. Put a pencil to that figure. At $19.50 per pound you’re looking at right around $400 for one bull’s shed antlers. Not a bad piece of change for a hike in the woods. Now suppose you’ve stumbled into the mother of all shed areas and find several antlers. You might not make enough to buy a tricked-out bass boat but you might be able to purchase that nifty four-digit rifle you’ve been coveting. But that $19.50 is the very tops for the best quality antlers. Like furs, they’re graded by the buyer. If they’re fresh and nicely browned you should get top dollar. If you find a shed that’s been lying around in the sun for a year or more it will likely be bleached white. Those sheds will have a lesser value. Generally speaking, elk antlers are worth more than deer antlers, and moose antlers get top dollar — if you’re lucky enough to find any.

So why are antlers in such high demand? Here’s some history. Initially they were considered to be aphrodisiacs. That’s a big word that means the antlers are supposed to add virility and energy to those that consume them. The antlers are ground into a powder and added to a beverage. The powder commands very high prices. Now then, if buyers can get antlers that are in the velvet stage they’re believed to be much more potent and bring even higher prices. Of course, the velvet stage occurs when the antlers are growing. By the time hunting season rolls around the velvet is already gone, with the exception of some late summer hunts, especially bow seasons. Interestingly, elk are commonly raised in game farms where their antlers are removed during the velvet period.

Soon another market sprung up. Antlers were used to make lovely chandeliers, lamps, and all sorts of rustic items used in homes, even chairs and bed frames. But the demand for antlers changed for yet another use — doggie chews. Yes, you read that right. Antlers are cut up in pieces, placed in cute bags and boxes and sold in pet stores for a pretty penny.

Ok, so if you’re thinking about getting in on this bonanza, and I don’t blame you if you do — there are some things you need to know about hunting for antlers. If you live in a region of the country where there’s little public land you mind have a tough time finding a place to hunt for sheds. You might try state and federal wildlife management areas or refuges, but you’re apt to find plenty of competition from other shed hunters in states where there are few such public lands. There are several public land agencies in the US where you can hunt sheds with no permission necessary from landowners. The two major agencies are the US Forest Service within the US Dept. of Agriculture and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) within the US Dept of Interior. The Forest Service administers around 190 million acres in the country with most of them in the west but there are several scattered around the US. The BLM administers about 250 million acres with almost all of it in the west. Though these are public lands where you can hunt for free, be aware that there may be restrictions on shed hunting in various states. For example, in Wyoming you cannot hunt sheds on any public lands from Jan 1 to April 31 on all land west of the Continental divide. There are no such restrictions on lands east of the divide. Another example. Montana offers excellent shed hunting on several WMA’s. In many you cannot hunt sheds after hunting season closes to May 14. Rules may vary with the area, so be sure to check regs. There are some areas in Montana that are so popular that hundreds of vehicles line up for the opener. When that time arrives there are vehicles tearing around hell bent for leather with anxious occupants looking intently for the prized antlers. There are reports of fistfights and even shootouts that were luckily averted because of the intense hunt. Why are there closures at all? Here’s what the Wyoming Game and Fish Department says: “the purpose of the seasonal closure is to minimize harassment or disturbance of big game animals on their winter and spring ranges when animals are most vulnerable to stress and displacement to less productive habitats.” In other words, shed collectors may actually harm animals by running them off the habitat they prefer to be on to areas which have less forage and cover. After surviving the winter, animals are weak. Pushing them around is not a good idea. In fact, some people will deliberately chase a herd of elk into a stand of timber, hoping that the bulls with strike their antlers on trees and branches, causing them to fall off. In my opinion this is unethical and uncalled for.

Before attempting to search an area for sheds you should have an idea where deer were in the winter when they dropped their antlers. For example, in the Maine woods deer often spend the winter in cedar swamps, especially if it’s a tough winter with deep snow and extreme cold. That’s where the sheds should be. This behavior holds true wherever there is some sort of migration, whether you’re considering deer, elk or moose.

In the west, mule deer and elk are champion migrators in many areas, often traveling a hundred miles or more to reach winter range after they’ve exited the high country where they spent spring, summer and early fall. That being the case, you’ll want to focus your efforts in lower elevations. Some elk herds seldom descend to the very lowest regions but will spend the winter in foothills where they feed on windblown ridges where the snow is blown away, exposing the grass which is preferred by the big animals.

Generally speaking, bull moose shed their antlers earliest – typically in December. Mule deer and whitetails in the west shed theirs by late January. Elk lose their antlers the latest, usually in March and early April. Often the largest animals lose their antlers first. A mature bull elk typically drops his antlers long before spike bulls. Because of the competition, shed hunters comb the woods thoroughly as soon as the snow allows access or the collecting season is open. By far the most successful hunters are those who ride horseback. Two reasons. One is that they can cover far more territory then a foot hunter, and the second is that a horseback rider is sitting high in the saddle and has much more visibility. Antlers lying on the ground are more easily spotted. Be aware that if you find one antler the matching set may be lying very close by. When a bull drops an antler his head is off balance. He may shake his head briskly or strike the antler on trees to get rid of the confounded thing. Nowadays dogs are trained to sniff out and retrieve antlers. This is done typically in whitetail country on farms and ranches. Fido becomes a valuable asset when he/she runs back to the owner with an antler!

The holy grail of all antler collecting is on the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. There, upwards of 10,000 elk migrate to the refuge from the surrounding mountains and spend the winter there. They’re fed hay by the wildlife managers. Bulls drop their antlers on the refuge. Picture, if you will, thousands of antlers lying on the ground. What happens to them? Interestingly, the local Boy Scouts are allowed to help refuge employees gather the antlers and sell them. In the beginning the boys sold antlers and bought camping items for their troop. As the years passed and antler values increased, the money was donated to charities. Imagine a thief looking at those antlers from outside the refuge’s formidable fence, lusting for the money that could be made, and stealthily cutting a hole in the fence and retrieving some antlers. Sounds like an easy way to make money, right? Problem is, all those dudes get caught. I think the refuge must have one heck of a surveillance system! What happens to those antlers? The scouts and wildlife managers pick them up and store them in a locked facility until the second Saturday of May when they’re auctioned off to the public in Jackson’s town square. It’s a gala event, drawing folks from around the country as well as countries overseas. Shed antler hunting is just that- hunting, like hunting for wild asparagus or mushrooms. It’s a big thrill to find one, not just because you know you can make some money, but because that antler represents part of an animal that lives in the wild and may be around for years to come. Collecting is also a wonderful family activity. More and more Americans are discovering it every year.

Best Mountain Lion Hunting States

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June 10, 2026

North American native mountain lions are great predators in the United States; their population is approximately 30,000. The big game mountain lion has many other names such as cougar, panther, puma, catamount, etc.

Pc: Unsplash

It is one of the big challenging games in North America and is often regarded as America’s lion. You can visit our blog, The Challenging Big Game-Cougar, to know more about cougar hunting and behavior.

This blog is about the population and distribution of mountain lions in different states of the United States of America. Before discussing which states are best for mountain lion hunting, you must know about

Table of Contents

When and Where to Hunt Mountain Lion:
Best Mountain Lion Hunting States:
Arizona:
Idaho:
California:
Colorado:
New Mexico:
Montana:
Wyoming:
Utah:

When and Where to Hunt Mountain Lion:

The cougar hunting season starts in August and lasts till February.

Cougar has a broader range of habitats and is present in open lands, steep canyons, forests, and deserts.

Best Mountain Lion Hunting States:

Here is a list of the best states for mountain lions hunting,

Arizona
Idaho
California
Colorado
New Mexico
Montana
Wyoming
Utah

Arizona:

Grand Canyon State has 2,000-3,000 mountain lions, which are present in the rocky areas, so most of the hunting is done on dry land. Be sure that you take highly trained dogs with you. In Arizona, the mountain lion hunting season runs year around.

Pc: Unsplash

Arizona has specific rules for cougar hunting that you can’t hunt kittens and females, and the bag limit is no more than one cougar per day.

Idaho:

Idaho has a widespread population of about 2,000 mountain lions, and this state is known to have more liberal laws than all the western states. The annual hunting limit is 400-600. The season starts in August and ends in June or March, depending upon the unit.

Electronic calls and hound hunting is legal in this area, but they might close for some time in specific areas.

California:

The state with one of the largest mountain lion populations. In the 1970s, California wildlife management declared mountain lions endangered, but now, due to efforts like controlled hunting, California has 4,000 to 6,000 mountain lions.

Colorado:

Colorado is the prime mountain lion state, with a population of 3,000 to 8,000. The state is the perfect habitat for this ferocious predator. A pro tip to make the best of the mountain lion in Colorado is first to check the rocky mountains regions.

Pc: Pexels

The cougar hunting season in Colorado starts in November, but for hunting mountain lions, you must fulfill specific standards set by Colorado wildlife management; you must pass a mountain lion hunting test, an online course, and an educational card and habitat stamp is also necessary.

New Mexico:

New Mexico only allows controlled hunting practices to protect mountain lions; the state has approximately 4,000 mountain lion populations that thrive in the hilly regions of the state.

Pc: Pixabay

The state allows electronic calls and hounds hunting, and the season runs round the year till the quota meets. Remember that your tag expires every March, and you have to renew it before going to the hunting areas.

Montana:

Montana mountain lion hunting season starts in September but makes sure you apply for the permit in August. The state wildlife department makes it clear that the state is suitable habitat for mountain lions, so they are widely spread all over the state, and the approximate population of cougars in Montana is 2,000 to 3,000.

Wyoming:

There was a time when the Wyoming mountain lion population was stable, but now the population has dropped. The state wildlife management is trying to control hunting till the population becomes stable again.

Pc: Pixabay

The best season runs from September to March and the best time to hunt is one hour before sunset and one hour after sunset.

Utah:

The state allows restricted and limited hunting and has a population of about 25,00 mountain lions. The mountainous regions, as well as swamp areas, are the preferred habitats of cougars. Legal mountain lion hunting season in Utah starts in November and runs till May.

Pack your hunting essentials and select the state as suitable for you to apply for a permit and enjoy the big game mountain lion hunt.

Helpful tips for raising your own turkeys!

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June 10, 2026

Spring is in the air here in Maine. Spring chic’s, piglets and turkeys are starting to be come available at local farm supply stores. I thought I would check in with Harris Turkey Farm to see what it takes to raise my own turkeys. Here’s what they had to say.

We buy our turkey poults at one day old. If you are looking to raise a few of your own turkeys here are a few things to keep in mind to grow a healthy flock.

You should buy poults from a flock that has been tested free of diseases. Ask if the hatchery or farm has been NPIP tested. This voluntary program helps ensure the flock is free of 2 types of Salmonella infections.
Keep them babies warm!!! We can’t stress this enough, the first week of life they need to be 95 degrees. If they are too cold, they will pile up together and suffocate. If you are using a heat lamp, make sure it is secure. Many house, barn, garage, and shed fires happen every year from heat lamps that are not secured properly. As they grow, you can decrease the heat by 5 degrees each week. Remember to check the temperature at their level.
Provide 24 hour access to food and water, and have enough space to all eat at once. If there isn’t enough space, the less aggressive birds will eat smaller amounts and not grow as well. Only use watering containers they CANNOT get into. Turkey poults don’t swim! If they get wet, they will be chilled and may die.
Not all food is created equal, turkeys need a high protein and energy food with balanced vitamins and minerals. As babies, do not feed them any food other than what is designed for them. No table scraps, no sunflower seeds, no scratch feed. You can supplement their diet when they get older. We use and recommend Blue Seal feeds.
When is the best time to get your poults? That depends on how big you want them. For Thanksgiving, we raise broad breasted whites for 13-15 weeks. The toms (males) will be 20 +/- pounds and the hens (females) will be around 13-16 pounds. If you want a larger turkey, plan to raise them for 16-18 weeks. A tom that is 22 weeks old, could be 40 pounds dressed at Thanksgiving!!! You had better plan for some left overs. Heritage breeds will take 5-6 months to reach 15 pounds.
The best dressed award goes to… You! You don’t have to process/butcher the birds yourself, but there aren’t too many places that offer turkey processing the week of Thanksgiving. We do not process turkeys for other people for biosecurity reasons, and our state licensing doesn’t allow us to do that.
Only allow poults to access the outdoors when they have primary and secondary feathers (usually 3 weeks.) Don’t kiss your poults, they can carry bacteria and viruses that don’t affect them, but can cause you to get sick. Be sure to wash your hands after handling them and filling their feeders and watering containers.
You need to provide 1-2 square feet/bird for young poults. As adults, if you choose to raise them in an enclosed building, they need 4-5 square feet per bird.

We are not veterinarians, but have plenty of experience. If you are unsure about something, send us an email and we will do our best to answer it or direct you to someone who can.

How to Hunt Geese on a Budget

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June 10, 2026