YAKIMA, Wash. – Hunting Washington’s most prized deer can take significant time and effort, not to mention a little bit of luck.

For 27-year-old Jake Fife, it took 16 years to earn an archery tag for one of Yakima County’s most coveted and restricted units, the location of which he asked not be used in this article. So when his early scouting last summer identified a buck bigger than any he’d ever seen before, bringing it home became a single-minded obsession that defined his daily routine.

“Wake up, go to work, think about the deer, get off work, go see the deer,” Fife recalled. “Think more about the deer. Come home, sleep think about the deer. Dream about the deer.”

Those dreams became haunted by a missed opportunity on the opening day of the season, Sept. 1, but nine days later Fife found the perfect chance for redemption. Countless hours of target practice finally paid off when he took down the buck, two weeks before the season ended.

Fife’s elation and pride from his first archery kill along with a full freezer plus plenty for friends from 175 pounds hanging at the meat locker provided enough rewards, but he would earn much more. The buck’s net score of 229 shattered the previous record of 2033/8 for Washington nontypical mule deer, and it won Best-of-Show in the archery category of the Horn and Antler competition at February’s Central Washington Sportsmen Show.

“It was really special due to the fact that I was able to finally get it down with a bow after a lot of failed attempts on other deer and stuff that I ended up never getting,” Fife said. “I feel pretty spoiled, but at the same time, there was a lot of hard work and disappointment before that happened.”

Hunting in his blood

Fife took his first hunter’s safety course to acquire a license at eight years old, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.

He initially applied for the unit where he would eventually find his record-breaking buck as 10-year-old, and Fife gained experience hunting elsewhere with his father, Gary Fife. Longtime hunting partner Trevor Dallman met Fife during their freshman year at Selah High and joined him in collecting virtually all of the many deer mounts now hanging from the wall in his east Selah home.

“We started off pretty young and just kind of going together and before you know it, we just hunted well together and started having good success,” Dallman said. “Mostly deer, elk and waterfowl.”

Fife learned to hunt with rifles and muzzleloaders before finally picking up a bow a little more than three years ago. He worked hard to gain confidence and skill with his Bowtech Carbon Knight, learning how to factor in the wind and hide well enough to creep within range of a potential target. Dallman said the Naches Valley head baseball coach and P.E. teacher has always had the “eagle eye” for finding the biggest game animals, including a memorable one that got away after a close call a couple years ago.

So when Fife sent Dallman a picture of an even more massive buck, Dallman quickly agreed to be a spotter and help out however he could. That meant tagging along whenever possible, and he heard plenty of stories from days when he couldn’t make it out to join his friend.

“He’s just so dedicated, I knew he wasn’t going to go for anything else,” Dallman said. “There was multiple other bucks when he got this one that were, at any other time, ‘wow, that’s a huge buck.’”

As one of two hunters selected in late June for an archery tag on a unit known for old, large bucks, Fife found his ultimate goal after several days of scouting about three weeks before the season opened. He tried to track the buck for about six hours daily on the weekends and two to three during the week, totaling well over 50 hours.

Finding trends proved more difficult than expected as the buck wandered around to different trails, bedding down and drinking water at multiple spots. Fife figured the deer’s tendency to stay in the general area would give him a good chance, though he couldn’t imagine just how soon it would come.

Taking down a “giant”

Fife didn’t sleep much the night before he began his hunt for the buck he referred to as a “giant” in a blog post for Northwest Sportsman magazine last October.

He woke up early and shortly after the sun rose saw a shocking sight — the buck of his dreams all alone. Fife carefully worked his way to within 70 yards of the patch of sage where he believed the deer was resting, only to see it stand up 30 yards away, then bolt upon seeing a disturbance so close.

“He didn’t stop to look back to see what I was,” Fife said. “I watched him go over one ridge and then go over another ridge and then go over another ridge. I was like ‘oh my god’ and then he never came out of that one, a big canyon, so I knew he was around.”

Nerves engulfed Fife even more than before following the close encounter, but he remained patient, waiting for the ideal moment. He saw the buck out in the open and with others over the next few days, including on a couple when the unit was closed, choosing to keep his distance rather than risk another failed stalk.

Finally, on Sunday, Sept. 10, Fife discovered the buck behind a large patch of brush and watched it feed while darkening up its horns by rubbing them on and off for about two and a half hours. He also called Dallman, who went out to spot for his friend as quickly as possible on another beautiful, sunny morning.

“Pretty much I had a perfect view,” Dallman said. “You could drive this road up on this hill and I could see everything.”

He watched as Fife slowly and methodically crept towards the bottom of the draw, eventually taking off his shoes and crawling on hands and knees through cheatgrass and stickers. He eventually settled into a spot about 40 yards away, behind a bush enough to be hidden from the deer, with a slight, steady breeze blowing into his face.

But as Fife partially stood up, awkwardly off-balance, waiting for the deer to stand and turn around, he felt his bow jump a bit and realized he needed a more comfortable position. So he immediately pulled back the string, stepped up and through the bush, then when the buck got up, locked eyes, and stomped his foot down, Fife let his arrow fly.

“It just went right through him, just disappeared,” Fife said. “It happened so fast I was just like — I knew I seen that I hit him but it didn’t make much sound or anything.”

An anxious hour

Doubts about what looked like a perfect shot crept into Fife’s mind after he watched the buck sprint away at full speed, and a phone call to Dallman only confirmed those fears.

From the road, he’d seen the buck tear off through the plain at full speed showing no signs of injury, then eventually slow down before it headed into some bushes and disappeared. Fife couldn’t find any traces of blood — or his arrow — so he decided to wait an hour until about 12:30 p.m. to begin a thorough search.

Dallman directed Fife to the bushes, and there it was, a buck even bigger and more incredible than he’d seen at a distance or in his pictures. Dallman and a game warden who watched the hunt helped Fife back to the truck with his price, which he estimates weighed about 300 pounds.

The success garnered Fife plenty of attention and opportunities to tell his story to fellow hunters, but he insists the high score isn’t really important to him. He’s hoping a full mount will be done by the end of the summer, and he’ll always have some unforgettable memories.

“Not even just to get him, but to be able to hunt a deer of that caliber was pretty cool,” Fife said. “Who knows if it’ll ever happen again? It might not.”

Thermal scopes are excellent tools that have become game-changers for shooters, especially those who love to hunt.

But since thermals don’t rely on light to work, you might’ve wondered at one point: can you use a thermal scope during the day?

Well, we already know the answer when it comes to using night vision scopes. But with thermal scopes, the extra light isn’t a problem. In fact, not only can you use thermal scopes during the day, but there are many fantastic advantages to doing so!

The Advantages of Using Thermal Scopes During Daylight Hours

There are several good reasons why you might want to consider making your thermal scope your go-to scope.

Day and Night

One of the most significant advantages of using thermal scopes is that you can use the same scope under all conditions. Since thermal scopes pick up heat signatures, the amount of light has no impact on their targeting efficiency.

The only thing that matters is temperature, so unless you’re hunting on an active volcano or an environment where objects trap lots of heat, then a bit of sunshine should have little impact on the quality of the imaging of a high-quality thermal scope such as the ATN ThOR 4. (1)

Improved Target Identification

While night vision scopes have more defined target detail, many hunters prefer using thermal scopes because of their adept target acquisition abilities that reign over obtaining a more detailed “facial recognition” of their targets.

However, that’s been changing. As thermal technology has improved, it’s made target identification much more accurate. And with this accuracy, it’ll allow you to more assuredly protect fellow hunters and friendly creatures such as pets and livestock.

Price

Thermal scopes used to be priced out of the range most hunters are willing to spend on optics. However, in recent years, several more affordable budget options have hit the market with improving quality and performance, such as the ATN Thor LT Ultra Light.

When looking at a thermal scope’s price tag, one thing to remember is the incredible value it can bring to your hunts. Saving time, ammo, and possibly your life and others are factors worth considering before making your decision.

Possible Daytime Uses for Thermal Scopes

Bushes and Brush

One thing that can make hunting less fun is spending hours waiting for a glimpse of your quarry. However, with regular and night vision scopes, your game can often hide behind cover such as thick brush and bushes, and you’ll never see them.

This is where thermal scopes shine brightest. Since these scopes pick up heat signatures, any object trying to hide behind foliage will become instantly visible, allowing you to take shots you would never have been able to take using regular or night vision scopes.

Body parts such as a deer’s antlers, which are filled with blood when growing, will light up like a Christmas tree.

Blood Trails

You’ve probably seen those movies and shows where hunters who are expert trackers do wacky things like tasting dirt and examining broken leaves to find their wounded quarry. In the real world, it’s not that easy, even if your target has left a blood trail.

Animals like deer are very durable, and unless you score a headshot or shot to the heart, they can run for miles in many different directions, making it tough to keep on their trail. However, with thermal scopes, you can pick up fresh blood trails much faster and catch sight of your quarry before it escapes.

Cold-Blooded Creatures

One disadvantage thermal scopes have is that they do not pick up cold-blooded creatures nearly as well. However, with most thermal scopes, you should still be able to make out their outline, which, all things considered, is better than what you would get with unpowered optics or night vision.

Better Scouting

Scouting isn’t just crucial for locating the game and identifying possible threats. Thermal scopes are great tools anyone who enjoys the outdoors should have on them, especially in areas with dangerous wildlife such as bears and mountain lions (or anywhere in Australia).

It’s also well-known that certain predators, such as polar bears, have been known to stalk humans, surprising them in ambush attacks. One can only imagine how many hunters could have been saved from tragedy with this technology. (2)

When Do You Use Thermal Optics?

If you’re curious as to exactly all of the times thermal optics are a good option, check out our article on when do you use thermal optics. We cover exactly when, where and how to use thermal scopes property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does sunlight damage thermal scopes?

No, sunlight does not damage thermal scopes. A thermal scope isn’t light-sensitive since it only reads thermal energy, which isn’t visible on the light spectrum. So you can freely use your thermal scope during the day the same as you would at night without concern.

References

1. Outdoor Life, Four Reasons to Own a Thermal Vision Scope, retrieved from https://www.outdoorlife.com/reasons-to-own-thermal-vision-scope/
2. Business Insider, A Retired Navy SEAL Explains How to Survive A Bear Attack, retrieved from https://www.businessinsider.com/clint-emerson-navy-seal-survive-bear-attack-2016-12

If you live in the southeast and have a pond that you envision to be your “trophy fish factory” then it will only be a matter of time before you think about stocking some largemouth Tiger Bass that will aggressively and continuously hit lures and baits, are hardy enough to survive the occasional winter temperature dips and grow quickly, as much as one or even two pounds or more per year.

What is a Tiger Bass?

Tiger Bass is a hybrid freshwater fish that is a cross between a female Florida Bass (Micropterus floridanus) and a male Northern Bass (Micropterus salmoides). It was developed in private fish hatcheries as a sport fish and is known for its fast growth rate, aggressiveness, and large size. Tiger Bass have a unique and distinct appearance, with a tiger-like pattern on its scales, hence its name.

It has a deep, broad body, and a large mouth, making it an efficient predator of other fish, crustaceans, and insects. Tiger Bass were first introduced into the market in the late 1990s and has since become a popular game fish among anglers. It is stocked across the southern United States, where it has become a sought-after trophy fish due to its size and fighting ability.

Tiger Bass Growth Rate

Tiger Bass are known for their fast growth rate, and they can grow up to 16 inches in one year under ideal conditions. The growth rate of Tiger Bass can vary depending on factors such as water temperature, availability of food, and genetics. In general, Tiger Bass grow faster in warmer water temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. During the summer months, when the water is warmer, the growth rate of Tiger Bass can be accelerated.

The availability of food is also a crucial factor in the growth rate of Tiger Bass. Tiger Bass are a predatory fish and feed on a variety of prey, including fish, insects, and crustaceans. The more food available to a Tiger Bass, the faster it can grow. Genetics can also play a role in the growth rate of Tiger Bass. Fish hatcheries selectively breed Tiger Bass with the fastest growth rates, resulting in offspring that are genetically predisposed to grow faster than their wild counterparts. Overall, with proper management and optimal conditions, Tiger Bass has the potential to grow at an impressive rate, making it a popular sport fish for anglers.

Tiger Vs Largemouth Bass

Largemouth Bass are a native species of North America and are found in many freshwater lakes, rivers, and ponds. It is known for its large mouth and aggressive feeding behavior. Largemouth Bass can grow up to 29 inches in length and weigh up to 22 pounds. In terms of appearance, Tiger Bass have a tiger-like pattern on their scales, whereas Largemouth Bass has a greenish color with a dark stripe along its body.

While both species are popular among anglers, Tiger Bass is preferred by those who are looking for a more challenging and exciting fishing experience due to its aggressive behavior and fast growth rate. Largemouth Bass, on the other hand, is known for its size and is sought after by those who are looking to catch trophy-sized fish.

Northern (Native) Largemouth Bass

• Northerns are tough fish that can survive in a wide range of water temperatures from “ice over” to warm summer water.
• They have relatively fast growth rates that, depending on the pond’s forage fish base and if there are supplemental feeders utilized, can range up to two pounds a year. Even with relatively fast growth, the Northern strain bass rarely get over 10 pounds.
• They readily strike lures and baits and are naturally aggressive.

Florida Strain Bass

• Perfect for warm climates but not great for surviving colder weather conditions.
• They add weight quickly and consistently, even in older age and can get up to the 20-pound trophy level.
• When the water temperature drops, they become more lethargic and tend to lose aggressiveness in terms of biting lures and baits.

F1 Largemouth (Tiger Bass)

This is a hybrid mix between a Northern bass and a Florida bass and the result is the best of both strains.

• Can survive colder water better than Florida bass.
• Consistent growth rate over a longer period. F1s, like Florida bass, can grow upwards of 20 pounds and in well managed ponds can add two pounds a year. The U.S. record largemouth bass weighing 22 pounds 4 ounces was caught in Lake Montgomery, Georgia in 1932 is thought to be a cross between a Northern and Florida bass.

Brian Senn, host of the Great Days Outdoors weekly Alabama Freshwater Fishing Report. Senn has interviewed a number of sources regarding growing trophy bass in ponds and knows all about largemouth bass strains.

“They are aggressive feeders (not as aggressive as the Northern strain) and make for a good fishing quarry but they lose some of that aggressiveness as they mature and are a bit more reluctant to hit lures and become harder to catch. Consequently, you may need to restock them every four to six years to maintain the vigor of the Tiger population,” Senn said.

Are Tiger Bass the Solution to Your Problem?

Norman Latona is the founder and owner of Southeastern Pond Management, headquartered in Calera, Alabama with offices in two other states. Southeastern Pond Management offers full-service pond management services including fish stocking, fertilizing and weed control, electrofishing, pond design and construction and more.

“If you are catching a fish that has a bucket mouth, a five-pound head, and yet he weighs a pound and a half or catch a fish that weighs two pounds that isn’t plump and has a sucked-in belly, there probably is a balance issue,” Latona said. “That is what we refer to as bass or predator crowded and it is the most out-of-balance condition we run into,” he said. “The fish may be easy to catch, but it is frustrating and not that much fun when small bass is all that you catch.”

Latona points out that bass are like aquatic “saber-tooth tigers’ in that they are voracious feeders and if there are too many of them, they will eat themselves out of house and home. The result is a bass population of a bunch of “stunted” small fish. In a nutshell, to fix this problem you need to make a concerted effort to reduce the number of predator bass per acre, either by time and effort intensive “hook and line” methods (fishing) or the more efficient electrofishing, for which Southeastern Pond Management has the equipment and expertise to do. Once the predator population is at a manageable level then you can concentrate on the forage fish base.

“We utilize electrofishing and we can be very selective. It doesn’t hurt the fish. It just stuns them and we can pick and choose which fish we take out. So, in that respect, it’s probably even a better approach than hook and line and the process doesn’t damage any fish that we don’t want to remove,” Latona explained. “Electrofishing doesn’t really discriminate, it removes fish, not just the aggressive fish, not just the fish that don’t tend to be aggressive, we just select based on size. Obviously, we don’t take the seven to nine-pound fish, since these are the ones we are trying to produce.”

Tiger Bass Stocking Points to Consider

Both Latona and Senn pointed out that generally, the best time to stock F1 Tiger Bass is in the spring and early summer and, to avoid winter and high summer periods, which are greater fish stress times in order to keep mortality rates down.

The stocking issue is easier if you have a new pond than an existing one. In a new pond, there aren’t any predator fish present and it makes sense to stock your forage fish (bluegill and threadfin shad) first to allow them to get a solid base established before you introduce the bass predators. In an existing pond with a decent forage base, it is a good idea to remove as many of the “resident” predator bass as possible before you add the Tiger Bass… and the reason is size.

Senn said that in discussing this issue with a number of different sources, the typical size of a Tiger Bass brood fish is one to three inches which is the perfect size for dinner for resident predator bass. That defeats the whole purpose of introducing the new strain if they are going to be eaten before they can grow.

“The typical size of a Tiger Bass fish is one to three inches and the normal rate of stocking for that size fish is 50 to 100 per acre. Now if you haven’t reduced the predator bass presence in the pond it makes sense to stock Tiger Bass in the bigger six-to-eight-inch size so they won’t get gobbled up by the resident bass and more will survive.”

“I’ve found that, in general, the cost of a one-to-three-inch Tiger Bass is about $1.50, and for the six-to-eight-inch stock is about $6.00. So for a three-acre pond at 100 small fish per acre, it will cost you $450.00 but if you stock the larger fish at only 50 per acre the cost is twice that. It is a tradeoff depending on the situation. Southeastern Pond can help you determine the best route to take and advise you on the predator fish to forage fish ratio to get everything in balance and can help you fine-tune your pond depending on your goals.”

Do Tiger Bass Reproduce?

Tiger Bass, being a hybrid species, do not reproduce naturally. The crossbreeding of a female Florida Bass and a male Northern Bass is done through artificial propagation in fish hatcheries. The eggs of the female Florida Bass are fertilized with the milt of the male Northern Bass to produce the hybrid Tiger Bass offspring.

Since Tiger Bass is a sterile hybrid, it cannot reproduce naturally in the wild. This means that to maintain the population, they need to be produced in hatcheries and stocked into lakes, ponds, and rivers. However, some research has shown that in some cases, Tiger Bass may be able to reproduce with other bass species, producing hybrid offspring that have a different genetic makeup than the original hybrid.

Where Are F1 Tiger Bass for Sale?

F1 Tiger Bass are available for sale from Southeastern Pond Management and other private fish hatcheries that specialize in breeding and raising hybrid bass species. These fish hatcheries can be found in various locations throughout the southern United States, where Tiger Bass are most commonly stocked in lakes, ponds, and rivers for sport fishing. These hatcheries typically offer F1 Tiger Bass for sale in different sizes, ranging from fingerlings to adults.

If you are interested in F1 Tiger Bass stocking in your body of water, make sure you consult with a fisheries biologist to determine the appropriate strain of bass to stock and whether or not your lake or pond needs corrective action or amendments before you begin stocking. Done correctly, stocking bass can lead to years of enjoyment for you and your family. Done without proper planning, pond stocking may produce mixed results.

The most advanced sniper rifles in the world are always been a great addition to any special operations forces team. They also have been my weapon of choice. In modern warfare, they are unavoidable subject in every infantry or special operations forces mission. Usually, snipers are our eyes and our advantage at the moment when the battle begins. From short-range to long-range sniper rifles, the outcome is the same.

In the world of firearms, these sniper rifles mean something and they are considered as the top sniper rifles in the world at this moment.

M110 SASS

The M110 SASS (Semi-Automatic Sniper System) is an American semi-automatic sniper rifle/designated marksman rifle. The sniper rifle is developed by Knight’s Armament Company in a 7.62x51mm NATO round.

It has been introduced to the U.S. SOF community in April 2008, when U.S. Army soldiers from Task Force Fury in Afghanistan used them in a combat zone. The troops rated the weapon very highly, noting the quality of the weapon and its semi-automatic capabilities compared to the bolt-action M24. It is considered as one of the most advanced sniper rifles in the world.

Designed: 2007 Cartridge: 7.62×51mm NATO Action: Gas-operated, rotating bolt Rate of fire: Semi-automatic Muzzle velocity: 783 m/s (2,570 ft/s) with 175 gr. M118LR Effective firing range: 800 meters (875 yds) Feed system: 10 or 20-round detachable box magazine

M40

The M40 rifle is a standard-issue sniper rifle in the USMC (United States Marine Corps). It is a bolt-action sniper rifle introduced into service in 1966. So far, it has had four variants—the M40, M40A1, M40A3, and M40A5. The changeover to the A1 model was completed in the 1970s, the A3 in the 2000s, and the A5 in 2009.

Each M40 is built from a Remington 700 bolt-action rifle and is modified by USMC armorers at Marine Corps Base Quantico, using components from a number of suppliers. New M40A5s are being built, and A1s are upgraded to A3s and A5s as they rotate into the armory for service and repair.

Designed: 1966 Cartridge: 7.62×51mm NATO Action: Bolt action Rate of fire: 6 RPM Muzzle velocity: 777 m/s (2,550 ft/s) (w/175 gr. M118LR) Effective firing range: 800 meters Feed system: 5-round integral box magazine (M40, M40A1, M40A3) 10-round removable box magazine (M40A5) Sights: Scout Sniper Day Scope (SSDS)—Schmidt and Bender PM II 3-12×50

AS50

The AS50 sniper rifle was primarily designed for the British Armed Forces and the United States Navy SEALs. It was employed due to its high rate of fire (five rounds in 1.6 seconds).

The AS50 was manufactured by British firearms producer Accuracy International and chambered in a .50 BMG caliber.This sniper rifle enables operators to engage targets at very long range with high accuracy using explosive or incendiary ammunition. The AS50 employs a gas-operated semi-automatic action and muzzle brake, allowing for lower recoil than the AW50 bolt-action rifle and faster target acquisition.

Designed: 2007 Cartridge: .50 BMG Action: The gas operation, direct impingement Rate of fire: semi-automatic, estimated at 5 rounds/1.6 seconds Effective firing range: 1,800 m Feed system: 5 or 10-round detachable box magazine

McMillan Tac-50

The McMillan Tac-50 sniper rifle was produced as a military and law enforcement weapon, which, designated as the C15. The rifle is also a standard Long Range Sniper Weapon (LRSW) of the Canadian Forces since 2000. Rifles of the Tac-50 family are capable of outstanding accuracy and guaranteed to provide 0.5 MOA groups with match grade ammunition.

The Tac-50 sniper rifle is produced in Phoenix, Arizona in the United States by McMillan Firearms Manufacturing. This long-range anti-material/anti-personnel weapon is based on previous designs from the same company, which first appeared during the late 1980s. McMillan makes several versions of .50 caliber rifles, based on the same proprietary action, for the military, law enforcement, and civilian use.

Designed: 1980s Cartridge: .50 BMG (12.7 x 99 mm) Action: manually operated rotary bolt action Muzzle velocity: 805 m/s (2,641 ft/s) Effective firing range: 1,800 m (1,970 yd) Feed system: 5 round detachable box magazine Sights: Customizable; 5-25x telescopic sight standard in Canadian Forces

Accuracy International AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum)

The Accuracy International AWM (Arctic Warfare Magnum) is one of the most recognized sniper rifles among the special forces community. The rifle is a bolt-action styled manufactured by Accuracy International and designed for magnum rifle cartridge chamberings. The Accuracy International AWM is also unofficially known as the AWSM (Arctic Warfare Super Magnum), which typically denotes AWM rifles chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum.

On 25 September 2012 Accuracy International announced on their company website that the AWM .338 Lapua Magnum rifle is being phased out and replaced by the Accuracy International AX338 rifle.

Designed: 1996 Cartridge: .300 Winchester Magnum .338 Lapua Magnum Action: Bolt-action Effective firing range: 1,100 m (1,203 yd) (.300 Winchester Magnum) 1,500 m (1,640 yd) (.338 Lapua Magnum) Feed system: 5-round detachable box magazine Sights: detachable aperture type iron sights day or night optics

CheyTac Intervention

The CheyTac Intervention is considered as a star among sniper rifles. An American-made bolt-action sniper rifle manufactured by CheyTac LLC is one of the most favorited on the market. It is fed by a 7-round detachable single-stack magazine. It is chambered for .408 Chey Tac or .375 Chey Tac ammunition. The manufacturer states that the system is capable of delivering sub-MOA accuracy at ranges of up to 2,500 yards (2,300 m), one of the longest ranges of all modern-day sniper rifles.

It is based on the EDM Arms Windrunner and it can be found in various variants: M-200, M-200 Carbine, M-200 CIV (Civilian), M-200 RK, M-310 SS (Single Shot), and M-310 R (Repeater).

Designed: 2001 Cartridge: .408 Chey Tac or .375 Chey Tac Action: Bolt action Effective firing range: 2000+ m – M-200 2000+ m – M-200 Carbine 1500+ m – M-200 CIV (Civilian) 1800+ m – M-310 SS (Single Shot) 1800+ m – M-310 R (Repeater) Feed system: 7-round detachable box magazine Sights: Day or night optics

Barrett M107

The Barrett M107 is a .50 caliber, shoulder-fired, semi-automatic sniper rifle. Like its predecessors (Barrett M82), the rifle is said to have manageable recoil for a weapon of its size owing to the barrel assembly that itself absorbs a force, moving inward toward the receiver against large springs with every shot.

Various changes were made to the original M82A1 to create the M107, with new features such as a lengthened accessory rail, rear grip, and monopod socket.

The Barrett M107, like previous members of the M82 line, is also referred to as the Barrett “Light Fifty”. The designation has in many instances supplanted earlier ones, with the M107 being voted one of 2005’s top 10 military inventions by the U.S. Army and it is one of the most advanced sniper rifles today.

Designed: 1980 Cartridge: .50 BMG (12.7×99mm) Action: Bolt action Effective firing range: 1,829 m (6,001 ft) Feed system: 11-round detachable box magazine Sights: Day or night optics

Maintain window panes and other glass objects properly without spots or fingerprints with the best glass cleaning cloths. These clothes are made of microfiber and have an ultra-soft texture that glides over the glass surface without causing any cracks or leaving residue.

Whether it is mirrors, window panels, TV or computer screens, drinking glasses, or other glass surfaces, these products can leave them spotless with a few wipes. They are also eco-friendly as they can be washed and reused. Also, they do not need any harmful chemicals to clean the surfaces. You can dampen the cloth in water for a lint-free, easy cleaning.

So, go through our list to pick the right glass cleaning cloth for your home.

12 Best Glass Cleaning Cloths

1. Best For Delicate Surfaces: MagicFiber Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Designed to keep your glass objects squeaky clean, the MagicFiber microfiber cleaning clothes remove oil, fingerprints, dirt, dust, and smudges without using any chemical cleaners. The saw-tooth pattern and fused edges prevent the formation of frayed edges and loose strings. They keep your glassware, glasses, camera lenses, watches, television, laptops, baby toys, etc., sparkly clean. Reviewer Caesar from Caesar’s Critiques says, “They are six by seven inches and are individually wrapped. I like the fact that it’s not going to leave anything on the glass. It cleans like a champ-my glasses are nice and crystal clear.” They can easily fit camera bags, eyeglass cases, tablet cases, and laptop sleeves. Try this glass-cleaning microfiber cloth for a lint-free, streak-free, and scratch-free cleaning experience. This video review, showcasing a tester testing this product, can help you make an informed decision.

Pros

• Safe on delicate surfaces
• Made of high-quality material
• Eco-friendly microfiber towels
• Hand-washable and reusable
• Easy to grip

Cons

• May be slightly thicker than expected
• May be smaller than expected

2. Best Scratch-Free: Care Touch Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

The high-quality microfiber cleaning cloth can help clean eyeglasses, TVs, computer monitors, laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc. The soft material leaves a smudge-free, clean, and smooth surface, eliminating dirt and dust without leaving any lint or streak from the material on delicate surfaces. You can use them for various optics and they can help you clean easily without any chemicals or cleaning solutions.

Pros

• Individually wrapped
• Machine wash-compatible
• Long-lasting
• Quick-drying
• Lightweight

Cons

• May be smaller than expected
• May get dirty quickly

3. Best High-Absorbent: MR.Siga Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

MR. Siga microfiber cleaning clothes deliver spotlessly clean surfaces with their innovative, safe, and hygienic cleaning materials without using any toxic chemical substances. They are extremely soft and skin-friendly. They are non-abrasive cleaning clothes that will not scratch items or scrape paint, coatings, or other surfaces. These multipurpose microfiber towels can be efficiently used as kitchen towels, bathroom towels, floor mops, car towels, and window/mirror cloths. They can be efficiently used to keep glassware, mirrors, laptops, mobile phones, television, etc. polished and clean. These generously sized glass cleaning microfiber cloths can be washed and reused multiple times. Its variants are available in four vibrant colors of yellow, blue, maroon, and green. If you are still unsure, check out this honest review showcasing a tester’s experience with the product.

Pros

• Made of polyester and nylon material
• Long-lasting and reinforced edges
• Quick-drying fabric
• Machine and hand washable
• Lightweight

Cons

• May be slightly rough to use
• May be thinner than expected

4. Best For Oil Smudges: Aidea Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloth

Available in bright and attractive colors, the soft microfiber cloth by Aidea ensures streak-free shine on surfaces, leaving no scratches behind. The tight weave leaves no wiping or cleaning stains. Made of 85% polyester, its high absorption power is coupled with quick-drying, which saves time and makes cleaning super easy. It can help you remove dust, fingerprints, and oil smudges on surfaces like glasses, goblets, mirrors, watches, smart devices, and stainless steel like magic.

Pros

• Lint-free
• Non-abrasive
• Machine washable
• Durable

Cons

• Fabric may snag with use
• May not be suitable for thick layers of dirt

5. Best Anti-Smudge: Xthel Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

For a lint-free and streak-free shine, the Xthel Microfiber Cleaning Cloths, with super absorbent capacity, are the best choice. These extremely soft & gentle cleaning cloths easily remove dust and grime, oily fingerprints, and leave no streaks or residue. Made of high-quality tightly woven microfiber material, they don’t smudge the surface and leave it looking amazingly new. They contain no harsh chemicals and are completely safe to be wiped on your prized electronics like camera lenses, laptops, mobile phones, iPad, LCD TV screens, etc. Besides, these reusable microfiber clothes are also long-lasting and sustainable.

Pros

• Saw-tooth patterned edges
• Prevents fraying
• Have a silky sheen
• Does not allow the dust to settle down
• Doesn’t scratch surfaces
• Machine washable

Cons

• May not withstand rough use
• May be slightly thick

6. Best Oversized: Elite Tech Gear Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

The high-tech microfiber cloth by Elite Tech Gear makes cleaning both large and small surfaces a cinch. Available in a pack of six, it features five large 6 x 7-inch and one oversized 12 x 12-inch cloths, perfect for your eyeglasses, iPads, smartphones, windows, mirrors, and much more. The microfiber lens cleaning cloth comes in individual packaging, making it easy to carry around in your daily or travel bags or eyeglass case. Easy to use with little pressure or effort, they leave no spots, scratches, smudges, or streaks on surfaces.

Pros

• Smooth texture
• Thick and durable
• Can be washed fifty times
• Available in many sizes

Cons

• May not be suitable for machine wash
• May begin to shed over time

7. Best Multipurpose: Homexcel Microfiber Cleaning Cloths

Featuring a grid pattern, the Homeexcel microfiber cleaning cloth traps dust, dirt, liquid, and debris and wipes out all stains and smudges effectively. Made from 87% polyester and 13% polyamide, the cloths are scratch-free, non-abrasive, and suitable for almost all household surfaces. Be it windows, furniture, kitchen tops, cars, electronic gadgets, or delicate surfaces—the soft, super-absorbent cloth does its job well.

Pros

• Lint-free
• Lightweight
• Quick-drying cloths
• Machine washable

Cons

• May have to be washed before use
• Some may find the cloth thin

8. Best Lint-Free: SmoTecQ Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloth

The SmoTecQ Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloth is uniquely blended fiber weaved for optimal softness, durability, and absorption. These cleaning cloths can effectively remove dust, oil, smudges, fingerprints, and dirt. They are safe to clean delicate surfaces of smartphones, glasses, laptops, car screens, lenses, and glassware. These small microfiber towels can help you ace the test of cleanliness as they leave no smudges, streaks, or smears on surfaces. Available in assorted colors of black, gray, yellow, blue, green, and pink with two clothes of each color, these microfiber glass cleaning cloths are attractive, convenient, and economical.

Pros

• Saw-tooth edges
• Hand washable and reusable
• Lint-free
• Environmentally friendly

Cons

• May be slightly thinner than expected
• May shrink slightly over time

9. Best Reusable: Care Touch Microfiber Lens Cloth

Fashioned for keeping the delicate surfaces of your expensive lenses and optics clean, the Care Touch Microfiber Lens Cloth is made with an extra-fine microfiber cloth with durable material. This microfiber eyeglass cleaning cloth is gentle on dainty surfaces. The edges of this superior cleaning cloth are heat-treated to prevent the sides from fraying. This versatile cleaning cloth works amazingly on glass and metal surfaces. It can be used to clean crystal, camera lenses, watches/jewelry, and glasses and effectively removes fingerprints, smudges, and dirt particles. They work well on anti-reflective, transition, anti-fog, and other coatings. These clothes are reusable and machine-washable.

Pros

• Ultra-soft
• Lint-free
• Safe for wiping all glass surfaces
• Saw-toothed edges
• Does not fray

Cons

• May be slightly smaller

10. Best For Different Surfaces: Optix 55 Microfiber Cloths

Designed for the cleanliness-loving person in you, the Optix 55 Microfiber Glass Cleaning Cloths are superior tools for cleaning and germ removal from glass objects. They pick up light dust and germs easily and are safe to be used on all types of surfaces – smartphones, tablets, TV screens, laptops, and camera lenses. These multipurpose cleaning cloths can be used at home, workplace, and inside the car. They are lightweight and lint-free. You can use this glass wipe cloth without having to use harmful chemicals or sprays for spotlessly clean surfaces. They can be washed to retain their original color, making them ideal for daily use.

Pros

• Removes fingerprints
• Leaves no streaks and residue
• Individually wrapped in vinyl pouches
• Soft and delicate
• Long-lasting

Cons

• May be slightly rough for certain glass surfaces

11. Best Non-Fading: Metene Microfiber Cleaning Cloth

Made of a high-quality microfiber blend, the soft cloth by Metene helps you clean your belongings with utmost care. The cloth rids a variety of surfaces of dirt, debris, grease, and moisture, leaving surfaces streak-free, scratch-free, and bacteria-free. They have no harsh chemicals and are safe for use on expensive gadgets such as camera lenses, tablets, laptops, and iPads. Each cloth is carefully packaged individually for convenient use and is easy to carry in your pocket, purse, or eyeglass case.

Pros

• Lint-free
• Does not fade
• Available in several colors
• Safe on delicate surfaces
• Can be washed 600+ times

Cons

• May not be suitable for stubborn stains

12. Best Non-Abrasive: Zerla Microfiber Glass Cleaning Clothes

Made with high-density microfiber guaranteeing maximum cleaning with minimum residue, the Zerla microfiber glass cleaning clothes have high tensile strength and facilitate superior cleaning. The non-abrasive design does not scratch surfaces, paints, furniture, stainless steel, or clear coats. Best for cleaning and dusting the kitchen, home, car, bath, and glasses, they can handle the toughest of grease, dirt, dust, and spills while remaining safe on all surfaces. These cleaning cloths can be machine washed often to remove trapped dirt, dust, and grease and can be used multiple times. They are high heat and fire-resistant and free of any chemical compounds.

Pros

• Provides lint- and streak-free results
• Reinforced edges
• Absorbs water eight times its weight
• Made of polyester and polyamide material

Cons

• May be slightly stiff
• May be somewhat textured

Paula Tarling, an experienced domestic cleaner and influencer, says, “Glass cleaning cloths are also great for keeping your taps and tiles shiny. Always wash the cloths on a hot wash and never use fabric softener as it can ruin the cloths’ absorbency.”

How To Choose The Right Glass Cleaning Cloth?

These are some points to keep in mind while choosing a glass cleaning cloth.

1. Water absorbency: The first thing to keep in mind while selecting a glass cleaning cloth is to check how much water the cloth can absorb. A cloth with high absorbency provides cleaner surfaces and does not leave any smudge or strain. These cleaning cloths can be washed for regular use.
2. Material used: The material used is another important factor. Glasses require special care and cleaning cloths made of microfiber are the best. They are soft, super absorbent, and have the tensile strength to clean grime, dust, and fingerprints.
3. Washable: Another key feature to consider is that the cloth should be either hand-washable or machine-washable. The cleaning cloth accumulates a lot of dirt and grime and needs to be cleaned regularly. Once washed, they can be used multiple times for spotless cleaning.
4. Size: Glass cleaning clothes of different sizes are available in the market. It is important to choose the right size for your cleaning purpose. Window panes will require large cleaning clothes while a small-sized cleaning cloth will suffice for spectacles, iPhone, iPad, camera lenses, etc.

Why Trust MomJunction?

After careful research and analysis, we have curated this list of the best glass cleaning cloths. These cleaning cloths have been chosen after going through numerous user reviews and ratings on several trustworthy websites to ensure quality and easy usage. We have also included an informative buying guide and offered some tips on how to choose the right product based on factors such as material, absorbency, and maintenance.

Twenty years of chasing cougars with my own dogs have taught me that we in the outdoor media do a lousy job of explaining lion hunting. Even experienced hunters with good dogs finish second much of the time, a fact that too many stories ignore. Even on successful chases, magazine articles and TV programs commonly cut quickly to the tree, the shot, and the dead cat, which makes the process look pretty easy.

Now I invite you to tag along on a real-world lion chase. When we’re done, you can draw your own conclusions.

There are more late-crossing lions in the imagination than in the woods. The term refers to a cat that has crossed the road behind you after you’ve driven up a canyon, searching for a track left the night before. Sign from a late-crosser is a welcome sight because it guarantees a fresh track. Most days, the possibility of spotting tracks made behind you does little more than help you stay awake at the start of a long drive home.

But these tracks were clear, coming down off a bank we’d passed just an hour before.

First spotting them in the headlights, I wrote them off as elk tracks we’d seen on the way in. But something didn’t look right.

I stood on the brakes, and my hunting partner, John, and I jumped out. No doubt about it – we were looking at a tom’s track right on top of our tire tread.

After waiting 20 minutes for legal shooting light – a requirement for turning dogs out in Montana – we walked to the back of the truck for Robbie, John’s bluetick, and Sadie, my walker. As the pair yapped off through the gloom, I fully expected to hear them barking treed before we left the vehicle.

“This one should be about as easy as it gets,” I commented while squirming into my backpack.

Yeah, right.

Although I’d treed cats for others, I hadn’t shot one myself in five years. Now I was the designated hitter, and although I like to downplay the shooting of a cat at the end of a hunt, I confess that the hunt is always more exciting when that role falls to you. As the sound of the chase crossed a creek and disappeared over a ridge, I felt especially eager as we set off in pursuit.

More than a foot of fresh powder snow had fallen that week, and I’d thought about strapping snowshoes to my pack before leaving the truck. But not wanting to pack them through the brush on the mountainside, I decided against it, which seemed like a good idea at the time. Of course, that’s probably what Custer said about his decision at the Little Bighorn.

By the time we’d crossed the first ridge and descended into another creek bottom, the dogs were out of earshot. The track led up a steep mountainside, where deep snow wasn’t a problem under the tree canopy. However, the layer closest to the ground had frozen, and the loose powder on top of it was as slick as grease. We took two steps forward and one step back all the way to the top.

A mile down the ridge, the trail took a confusing turn as we ran into a chaotic jumble of tracks going in different directions. We did find bounding lion tracks where the dogs had jumped the cat, but rocky cliffs below made it impossible to see what had gone where, and blowing snow blurred dog and cat tracks. To complete the confusion, John found lion prints disappearing back into the timber where we’d just come out – with no dog tracks on top of them.

One possible explanation for such confusion is multiple lions. Despite inherently low population densities, cats have a way of finding each other in those lonely hills. It was also possible that a lion kill lay nearby. In any case, fresh lion tracks would do us no good without dogs. So we hunkered down in the timber and waited for them to show up.

But they didn’t. As much as we hated the thought of losing the elevation we had gained, we split up and picked our way down the far hillside, trying to work out the muddle. The blowing snow wasn’t helping, but at one point I was sure I had running lion tracks with dog tracks on top of them. At the bottom, John found the same going on up the next mountain. Although something didn’t feel right, we decided to follow the track.

The second mountainside wasn’t as demanding as the one we’d climbed earlier until we approached the top, where we encountered a maze of steep, rocky cliffs. Ascending one vertical chimney proved nearly impossible without technical climbing gear, but somehow we powered our way up through it.

Another mile down this ridge we encountered more bounding cat tracks; the dogs had caught up with the lion again. Then we entered an area of blowing snow and got separated as we tried to work out the track. By the time I finally picked it up again down in the timber, John’s boot tracks were on top of it, but we were out of earshot. We wouldn’t see each other again for hours.

The chase led back downhill in the direction from which we’d just come. If the dogs had a cat treed on the hillside, I should have been able to hear them. The track I was following led right back toward the spot where we’d first got confused.

A sinking feeling hit me in the pit of my stomach as I finally deduced what had happened. By the time we were waiting on the last ridge, the cat and dogs had already run the loop we’d just spent three bruising hours following! The lone track sneaking back across the ridge had been our cat, and the dogs were lost somewhere on the mountainside.

Back at the creek bottom we’d crossed earlier, I paused to take stock. Our lion hunt was over. I’d been on the trail for seven hours. The dogs were lost, the weather was deteriorating, and limited light remained. It was time to consider priorities. The first order of business was planning my route out of the woods. The dogs came second. I didn’t know where John was, but he would take care of himself.

The wisest choice in these situations is usually to return the way you came, but I knew the creek bottom eventually led to the road. Even though that route was longer, it would save me a long climb.

Then the faint sound of a lost dog’s barking rose above the wind down the creek. That finalized my decision, and after slogging through a mile of snow, I was overjoyed to find dog tracks. Then Robbie and Sadie appeared from the trees. The team was nearly reassembled. All I had to do was get us home, which should have been easy, given the open terrain along the bottom.

However, snow had blown, drifted, and settled on the open ground. Worse yet, the crusted snow was almost, but not quite, firm enough to support my weight. The conditions were perfect for snowshoes – but you know where mine were.

I will admit to being one tired pup by the time I reached the side road that would eventually lead back to the vehicle. Even the well-conditioned hounds were dragging, and we were still two miles from the truck.

Then the most welcome sight imaginable appeared – John had taken the shorter route out, and using the ESP that hunting partners develop after years together in the field, he had figured out exactly where I’d be. The sight of both hounds was probably as welcome to him as the warm truck was to me.

The cat may have won that chess match, but we knew we’d been on an honest lion hunt, with no help from snow machines or radio tracking collars. And that’s the simple tale of a lion chase that was supposed to be as easy as it gets.

It’s a year later now, and the new lion season has just begun. On opening day, the alternator on my truck went out in the middle of nowhere right after we spotted the first cat track of the season. Rather than risk more confusion, John and Scott, a friend visiting from Alaska, stayed with the dead vehicle while I spent eight hours hiking out of the woods to a telephone from which I could call my wife Lori to come rescue us. My 60-year-old legs were already aching, and I had yet to turn Sadie out on a cat.

But yesterday’s events perfectly illustrate the other side of lion hunting. We crossed a smoking fresh tom track right at sunrise, and the dogs were barking at the tree by the time we’d slipped on our packs. Scott drove the arrow home with his recurve, and less than an hour later we were back at my resurrected truck with Scott’s first lion.

“You’re a lucky hunter,” I told Scott as we loaded the dogs back into the vehicle. “That chase was about as easy as they get.”

“I know,” he replied. “I almost wish it had been harder.”

“Are you sure?” I asked with a laugh, and then we were bouncing back down the road looking for the next set of tracks.

Adventuresome Bowman Don Thomas lives in rural Montana with his bowhunting wife, Lori. Don’s 15 outdoor books are available through www.donthomasbooks.com.

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You’ll get an argument from duck hunters everywhere, but when you start talking about the best duck calls, you’ll have to understand that we all have our favorite. The game calls we use for the realistic sounds of waterfowl are arguably the most critical call in the hunting game.

From single reed to double reed and even triple reed duck calls, duck callers can get a little overwhelmed by all the possibilities of different calls. From the high-ball and chuckle to the peeps and whistles of smaller puddle ducks, every call is unique in its ability to fool and even calm wary waterfowl. It’s all about getting them to believe that our spread isn’t the only thing giving them a good reason to land.

There are different reasons to choose between wood, acrylic, and even plastic calls. There are plenty of good reasons to choose or not to select other calls with multiple reeds.

Whether you’re hunting timber or big open water, you may want to be heard loud and clear or give off the swamp’s softer, more melodic tones. Do you want a raspy sound or a clean and clear one?

Whether you want to make a quack, a feed call, or a hail call, you’re not going to do it with your lips. You had better have something readymade on your lanyard. Even better, it should have the versatility to make a wide range of sounds for when it is right to fool some waterfowl.

Buck Gardner Double Nasty Wood Duck Call

Buck Gardner Double Nasty Wood Duck Call – Amazon, $29.99

The Buck Gardner Double Nasty series offers several choices, from the mallard hen to the hen wood duck. Yes, it’s a significant attractor of the venerable woodie. But this call is also a good confidence call for warier ducks who’ve seen and heard it all before. Buck Gardner makes it from durable polycarbonate, which is quite common.

2. Rich-n-Tone RNT Macrohen Double Reed

Rich-n-Tone RNT Macrohen Double Reed – Field Supply, $109.99

The RNT Macrohen is a double reed call that’s acrylic and rocks the high-end sounds needed for reaching those sky-high, determined-to-go-somewhere-else birds. At $119.99, it may not be for everyone’s taste, but that didn’t stop you from buying that much in new duck gear a year ago.

3. Faulk’s Professional Duck Call

Faulk’s Professional Duck Call – Amazon, $29.56

Walnut is the wood of choice for Faulk’s with this tasty-sounding call referred to as the Professional. Wood calls are superior at withstanding subzero temperatures that can freeze up poly calls. Since there’s nothing better than shooting mallards with a bit of snow on their backs, the smooth-sounding tones are what you need for a limit of ducks.

4. Haydel’s Double Reed Mallard

Haydel’s Double Reed Mallard – Amazon, $20.98

The old-school XL from Haydel’s Game Calls was the first duck call that I ever bought. Trying to entice mallards off Lake Ontario in January is hard enough. Still, with a steady northwest wind in your face, you need a call that gets the word out. I always loved its raspy high-ball and the see-through shell. Calling ducks became more manageable once I saw how anyone could apply a tool like this.

5. Duck Commander 6-in-1 Whistle

Duck Commander 6-in-1 Whistle – Amazon, $10.19

On Amazon Prime, this call is a steal. Tweets for pintail and widgeon aside, the simple “dweek” that makes drake mallards stop in their tracks is one of the best confidence calls in duck hunting. This call is great to hand over to the youngster in your life and be patient while they do laps around the house making their favorite call sounds.

6. Duck Commander Triple Threat

Duck Commander Triple Threat – Amazon, $31.56

Arguably the best all-around call out there, the Triple Threat has everything that you want in a call: it’s affordable, easy to learn on, and tough as nails. Veterans and beginners alike will take to this call with pleasure. Don’t let its nondescript look fool you; the best duck calls make duck calling easy, and the Robertsons make one of the best.

There are excellent and outstanding calls from Iowa to Arkansas, where they shoot steel shots at waterfowl. Call makers everywhere would like to think theirs is better than the rest, but you should decide for yourself what a high-quality duck call is.

Looking for a little more? Follow my webpage, or on Facebook and Twitter.

This article was originally published on September 18, 2021.

READ MORE: WHAT SHOTGUN LOAD SHOULD YOU USE FOR EACH HUNT?

This isn’t the best place to be if you’re a vegetarian or aren’t interested in venturing into more unorthodox meat choices for your dinner.

Now that you have been forewarned, let’s get on with discussing what does Porcupine taste like? Yes, this large rodent is a delicacy for many people in the South East Asian communities.

The spiky creature is also eaten in the west, but you’ll hardly ever see it on the menu of famous steak houses or corporate food networks.

Some have even labeled it an ‘acquired taste’ since it tends to overpower the palate if not cooked right.

What is Porcupine?

If you haven’t seen a porcupine in real life and are trying to picture what it looks like, consider browsing a picture or two on the web for reference.

The animal is covered in spikes and looks like a giant guinea pig, minus the fluffy fur.

The mammal is part of the order Rodentia and is classified under two subspecies: Hystricidae and Erethizontidae.

Old-world porcupines or Hystricidae are native to Asia, Europe, and Africa.

Whereas New word porcupines, called Erethizontidae, are found in North America and South America.

Though they are divided into subfamilies, the typical characteristics to identify the beast are the same.

They have quills on their back, snots for noses, and are generally a dark grayish color.

While the latter is mainly arboreal, the other species are terrestrial and easier to hunt.

What Does Porcupine Taste Like?

Often compared to white and red meat, many have debated that porcupine is most similar to pork.

The meat is made up mostly of fat and is extremely rich in flavor.

Some even say there’s a certain sweetness to it.

Most of the food that we consume tastes like the nutrients that its body contains.

And, since porcupines are solely herbivores, it’s no wonder that their meat is succulent, clean, and vibrant.

While slicing into the meat, you’ll notice that the color is darker than usual captive-bred meat.

Wild meat usually has an off-putting muskiness, but while porcupine meat has a strong kick, it also has a subtle sweetness that helps offset the gaminess.

Ironically the name porcupine is a play on words meaning ‘pork of the pines’.

The word is derived from two Latin words, ‘ porcus’ and ‘spina,’ which translates to ‘pig’ and ‘spine.

‘ It could be a coincidence that the animal is named after pigs, or maybe people in the old days found resemblances in the look or taste.

Whatever the reason, most will agree with the similarity in flavor.

In the early days, the meat of this porky roach was compared to very strong-smelling cheese.

American Naturalist William Long even went so far as the say it was vile.

However, in recent years with many people trying to find healthier ways of consuming red meat, this exotic ingredient is now making the rounds in the local market.

How to Cook and Serve Porcupine?

Let’s first clarify the big question of how to prepare the meat for consumption.

Seeing as how the body is primarily covered in spikes or quills, it can take a lot of work to dress the meat for cooking.

You either have to skin the carcass or burn the skin and quills off.

The other methods of manually removing the spikes may be time-consuming and challenging to accomplish.

Great tutorials show you how to complete any of the steps mentioned above.

Once you’ve completed the demanding task of getting the meat ready to cook, it’s pretty easy to prepare.

Many people will separate the skin and Subcutaneous fat and roast it or grill it directly over an open fire.

Other methods of cooking require a bit more preparation time.

You can prepare porcupine stews if you have all the right accessories to flavor the pungent meat.

Or, you can coat them in batter and cracker crumbs and enjoy the deep-fried meat.

However, the most common cooking method would be to leave the skin on and roast it whole, just like how you would prepare a Lechon.

Adding this red meat to your diet can actually do you good because of its high protein content and other nutrients.

Conclusion

As wild game makes a comeback into our kitchens, the porcupine can be a great way to start your culinary experience with exotic meats.

They’re straightforward to cook and have been regularly consumed by people in the past.

It also pairs well with solid wines due to its rich aroma and taste.

The meat from this spiny animal is also highly coveted for all its health benefits.

So much so that it is a staple food item for indigenous people in South East Asia.

So, the next time you’re out browsing for something eclectic and different and see some fresh porcupine meat for sale, you should grab some for yourself.

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