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

Brandon Burks and the 8.52 pound stare record meanmouth bass

*Editors Note: Originally reported to be the world record meanmouth bass, IGFA officials recently informed Brandon Burks that his record would not count because his Alabama Rig had five hooks instead of the IGFA maximum allowance of three. However, since Texas allows anglers to fish Alabama Rigs with five hooks, Brandon’s bass will be the state record, which now weighs more than the world record.

State Record Meanmouth Bass

The state record meanmouth bass weighed 8.52 lbs and was caught from Lake O.H. Ivie by fishing guide Brandon Burks who was using an Alabama Rig in January 2022. Meannmouth are a hybrid species usually consisting of half smallmouth and half spotted bass. However, Brandon’s fish and the previous world record were the rarer, largemouth and smallmouth combo. The last two state record meanmouth bass were both caught from O.H. Ivie Lake a little more than a year apart.

Big Bass Factory

A 10+ largemouth pulled from O.H. Ivie

Lake O.H. Ivie has become one of the most talked-about big bass lakes in the country because of the blimp-like bass being pulled from its waters. Two 14+ pound largemouth were caught within the first two weeks of 2022 and the lake has reported dozens of bass weighing over 10lbs in the previous seasons.

The Catch

The Texas Parks and Wildlife measuring board measuring Brandon’s bass at 23″ inches.

On the day of the catch, Brandon was guiding a client near specific structure areas where he noticed bluegill stacking up amongst the forest of trees left standing when the reservoir was flooded in 1990.

By making casts that stayed within view of his forward-facing electronics, Brandon and his client were working their A-rigs through the timber and among the large concentrations of baitfish without getting snagged. The target fish were suspending bass that nestled themselves within the standing timber as they waited to chow down on passing bluegill.

By using years of on-the-water experience with trophy caliber bass, Brandon applied a specific cadence and technique to help trigger the inactive fish into biting. Once he hooked the massive bass, he jacked up on the fish while simultaneously winching down on the reel handle, this technique might seem aggressive, but it was needed to help pull the big fish up and away from the standing timber.

After an epic battle, the client helped net the fish, which they both assumed to be a largemouth until further inspection. After taking another glance, Brandon was realized he had the world record meanmouth bass on his hands. Unaware of the meanmouth species, the guide client remained skeptical when Brandon claimed, “This is a world record fish.” Eventually, they made their way back to the ramp and contacted Texas Parks and Wildlife, who sent a representative to the boat ramp.

The Texas Sharelunker representative pulled a sample from the fish, confirmed its weight and length, and then watched Brandon release his world record catch back into the lake.

Big Bass Family

Before guiding full-time Brandon worked in the concrete business alongside his father who is an established Texas tournament angler himself. In fact, Brandon’s dad landed a 13lb largemouth from lake O.H. Ivie last year which was followed up by a 12lb fish reeled in by Brandon on the same day.As a guide he specializes in fishing tech and, more specifically, the Garmin Livescope and Lowrance Ghost forward-facing sonar units. With the latest electronics, Brandon can see and do things never before possible in fishing. For example, he can cast 80 feet in front of him and watch his lure being retrieved live on screen through his entire cast. He’s able to lift the lure over a brush pile, around a tree limb, or slow it down for a brief pause if he notices a trailing bass on the screen. Watching fish interact with his lures, or clients’ lures in live-action via today’s latest fishing technology is part of what makes Brandon Burks guide experience so unique. After leaving his job working in concrete and transitioning to a full-time guide, he made it his mission to differentiate himself from the crowd.

His on the water electronic demonstrations allow customers to try live sonar units before making a purchase but most commonly he’s jumping on a client’s boat and helping them dial in their new gear. System settings, on-the-water tutorials, and installation help are all common questions Brandon helps answer.

“If someone is willing to spend thousands of dollars on their electronics, why not pay a little bit more to get really dialed in with a guide,” Brandon said. “I have so much experience on the water and I can help eliminate the learning curve quickly and get guys familiar with their units”

Having the latest technologies and gear is great, but you still have to know how to use it. And that’s where Brandon comes in.

Book A Trip With Brandon: Burks Fishing Guide

The key to a successful fishing experience has the right gear. Choosing the best ice fishing rods can make all the difference when it comes to catching fish through the ice.

In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a list of our 10 favorite rods for winter fishing, so you can be ready to hit the ice when the time comes!

Top 10 Ice Fishing Rods

Tip! Check out our other ice fishing gear guides if you’re just getting started.

10 Best Ice Fishing Rods Reviewed

• Abu Garcia Venerate
• 13 Fishing Widow Maker Evolve
• St. Croix Mojo Series Ice Fishing Rod
• Fenwick Elite Tech
• Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2
• Frabill 6986 Combo
• Atataka Ice Fishing Rod
• Fiblink 2-Piece Portable Travel Ice Fishing Rod
• Berkley Cherrywood HD Ice Fishing Rod
• Shakespeare Wild Series Ice Fishing Spinning Rod

1. Abu Garcia Venerate

Best Ice Fishing Rod Combo

If you don’t already have an ice fishing reel that you love, it might be worth jumping and getting this solid ice fishing combo by Abu Garcia.

This is a solid carbon blank with stainless steel guides that have been upgraded with zirconium inserts.

The ultra-light is great for panfish and small trout. It’s well-balanced, and the reel has a smooth rotation. It’s comfortable to hold for long periods, and the rod is strong yet sensitive. This also makes a great ice fishing gift.

2. 13 Fishing Widow Maker Evolve

13 Fishing ice rods are stellar! If you’ve been ice fishing for some time and would like to move away from the budget rods, this would be the next best step up.

It’s a graphite blank that has great action. The cork handle is comfortable, and the guides are Alps thin wire double diamond guides, which are a nice step away from the generic stainless still guides found on cheaper ice rods.

3. St. Croix Mojo Series Ice Fishing Rod

We’re a huge fan of St Croix ice rods. St Croix continues to put out quality products year after year.

Consider using this rod if you’re looking to go after bigger fish like walleye, pike, whitefish, or lake trout. It’s sensitive enough to feel the slightest nibbles yet has enough backbone to hoist the big fish from the bottom. Walleyes ice fishing just got a lot more fun with this rod.

This is a popular rod and one you’d likely buy again throughout the years.

4. Fenwick Elite Tech

This is a very popular graphite ice fishing rod made by a company that knows a thing or two about catching fish. This rod is super sensitive and has a strong backbone with a quick tip. You might need a spring bobber if you’re going for small fish, but overall this is a great rod for your arsenal.

Best of all, it was not expensive. It’s not every day you get a quality rod at a good price.

5. Shakespeare Ugly Stik GX2

Best Beginner Rod

If you’ve never tried an Ugly Stik, then you’re missing out. These rods are darn near indestructible and will stand up to multiple years of abuse. If for some reason, you are able to wear through or break it, they are so well priced that picking up another is not a problem.

What’s better is this rod comes with a reel that will also stand up to a beating. This is the best beginner rod, especially if you are looking for long-lasting gear selling at an affordable price.

6. Frabill 6986 Combo

Here’s another extremely reasonably priced ice fishing rod and reel combo made by Frabill. Even if you’re fishing in sub-zero conditions, you can rest assured this rod will deliver. It comes with an ultra-sensitive micro spring bobber to sense when you have the slightest activity on your line.

Best of all, it comes at a price that might have you buying two just because you love them so much!

7. Atataka Ice Fishing Rod

If you’re looking for a little more sensitivity for your panfish bite, then check out this Atataka rod. It has a sensitive tip that should help you sight fish as well.

It’s flexible and has a strong backbone. The reel seat is nice, and the cork handle is comfortable. The orange tip is a nice feature to see the tip moving against the snow.

This will be your rod if you’re looking to put a bunch of bluegills, crappie, and even some largemouths in the cooler.

8. Fiblink 2-Piece Portable Travel Ice Fishing Rod

Sometimes you need to travel to find a hot bite in the cold weather. If you’re not looking to lug your expensive gear, you should look at this new Fiblink travel ice fishing rod.

It’s a carbon composite rod that is light and sensitive. You’ll be able to catch everything from perch, walleye, trout, and panfish. Best of all, it has an old-school pistol grip vibe which is more unique than anything we’ve seen in a while. It’s definitely worth a look!

9. Berkley Cherrywood HD Ice Fishing Rod

If you’re looking to start ice fishing and don’t want to spend a lot of money on gear, you need to check out this Berkley Cherrywood HD. Pair it up with a small 500-size reel with some light monofilament, and you’ll be all set to catch some small panfish on the water.

This rod is made from a 100% fiberglass ice fishing rod blank and comes with a comfortable cork handle. It has three guides, so it’ll be a bit better against freezing if you’re fishing outside.

This ultra-light can bring in crappies up to 22 inches. It’s also affordable, so if you break it, you won’t break your bank by replacing it.

10. Shakespeare Wild Series Ice Fishing Spinning Rod

If you’re looking for a comparable rod to the Berkley Cherrywood HD, but want more guides because you’ll be fishing inside your ice shed, then this is worth your consideration.

It’s made from fiberglass and comes with stainless steel guides for added durability. It has a light tip and a strong backbone.

This rod will have no problem bringing in walleye up to 27 inches on the medium power model. It’s a great walleye rod!

How to Choose the Best Ice Fishing Rods

There are some general rules of thumb to decide what type of setup you’ll need for ice fishing. We’ve listened to experts to see what they like to use so that you can determine what to get prior to hitting up your local shop or buying online.

Note: just FYI, it’s an ice fishing rod, not an ice fishing pole.

Generally, we’ll bucket our setups between panfish and larger fish. There are many ways to catch fish, but follow these guidelines if you have to start from scratch.

Ultralight Fiberglass Rod Setup

If you’re looking to catch panfish, including perch or bluegill, and want to use micro baits, you should get an ultralight ice fishing rod 18-24 inches in length.

You’ll want to pair that rod with the following:

• 500-size ice fishing reel
• 2-6lb mono/fluoro or
• 5 lb braid

Ultralight Ice Fishing Graphite Rod Setup

Sometimes fiberglass just won’t cut it in terms of sensitivity. Therefore, if you’re planning on going jigging for small walleye, crappie, bluegill, or rock bass, you should get an 18-24 inch rod fishing in your ice hut or 28-30 inches you’re fishing outside.

You’ll want to pair that rod with the following:

• 1000 size reel
• 2-6lb mono/fluoro
• 5-8 lb braid
• ML with fast action

This setup will be super sensitive, so we like it for jigging. For an even more feel, try using a 5-pound braid with a four-foot fluorocarbon leader.

Bigger Fish Ice Rod Setup

If you’re in an area where you can go for bigger fish, you’ll need another setup entirely. If you plan to go for whitefish, walleye, lake trout, or other monsters, then you should look at a medium to medium-heavy rod.

You’ll want to pair that rod with the following:

• 2500-size reel or
• Baitcaster 150-200 size
• 4-10lb mono/fluoro
• 5-10lb braid
• 28-36inch length when fishing outside
• 18-24 inside the tent

Again, feel free to use a braid with a fluorocarbon leader if you want a bit more sensitivity. Your way to select the right rod stiffness for the size fish you’re going after. Problems happen when you don’t dial this in properly.

Fiberglass vs. Graphite Ice Rods

When you’re choosing your ice fishing rod blank, you’ll likely be deciding between fiberglass and carbon fiber.

Fiberglass blanks are:

• super soft
• great for live bait and micro presentations

Graphite blanks are:

• a little stiffer
• great for working baits

Ultralight vs. Medium vs. Medium-Heavy

Make sure you match rod power to the size of the fish you’re targeting.

• Ultralight to light: target panfish
• Medium to Medium-Heavy: target walleye, lake trout, pike, white fish

Walleye Ice Fishing Rig

Walleyes are a fun fish to target and are a bit special. They need a good rod and reel to bring these fish to the surface.

They should have a solid backbone rod with a quality reel and drag. This will allow you to achieve a good hookset and to be able to play a fish properly. Make sure you drill a proper size hole in the ice or use an ice chisel to make an opening to get out your catch!

Guides

The worst thing that can happen when fishing is your guide freezing up. This can be quite frustrating and can damage your line if you’re not careful.

Usually, when guides are too small and it’s super cold outside, they’ll freeze up. The opposite of small guides are big guides, which can be nice, but tend to be clunky and take away from the balance of the ice rod.

You’ll also find that the bigger the guides, the less there are on the rod.

When possible, go with more guides for a better rod bend. If it’s freezing and you’re fishing outside, go with bigger guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

Industry dayDay oneDay two

This report covers:

• SHOT in reverse?
• Correction
• Evanix
• ASG
• Security at SHOT
• Hawke
• Josh and Mirfee Unger
• Survival Airguns
• Summary

Today we continue looking at the 2024 SHOT Show and there is one more report yet to come.

SHOT in reverse?

Remember my comment that the crowds were smaller this year? Well, today they weren’t. It almost felt like a first day. Go figure!

Correction

I have to correct something in the Day 2 report. I called that concealed carry firearm a Three Ounce pistol. It isn’t. It’s just an Ounce pistol. They used the international symbol for the measurement “ounce” in front of the word Ounce on the literature and I thought it was a fancy number three.

The cover of the Ounce pistol brochure.

Okay, let’s see some more of the show!

Evanix

Viper — The Viper is a new precharged pneumatic (PCP) pistol that comes in .177, .22 and .25 calibers. It is semiautomatic and has a 7-shot rotary magazine in all calibers.

Evanix Viper is semiautomatic.

The Viper has a balanced valve and gets around 20 good shots per fill to 3,600 psi. It gets in the 12-14 foot-pound range in .177 to around 20 foot-pounds in .25 caliber. It retails at $975.

Rex S — I also saw the Rex S which is a Rex pistol bored out to accept 28-gauge shotshells. The Rex rifle also gets this treatment, resulting in a 28-gauge shotgun that shoots a charge of shot at up to 1,300 f.p.s. for the long gun and 1,000 f’p.s. for the pistol.

The new Evanix Rex shot pistol.

Here is the shotshell and a charge of shot that goes in the Rex S pistol.

ASG

My next stop was at Action Sport Games. They showed me a pistol that looks very much like a Glock but is actually called an ISSC. Now get this — ISSC is an Austrian firearms manufacturer, just like Austrian Glock and their handguns look like Glocks. But they’re not. They are ISSC.

ISSC M22 — This is a CO2-powered BB pistol that comes in either a blowback or non-blowback model. It should be out later this year and I will test it for you.

ASG will bring out the ISSC M22 later this year.

Security at SHOT

Just a side comment — the security at the show was much tighter this year than ever before. There were service dogs everywhere. I bet I saw at least 40 of them. Also, at my hotel there were guards on all the guest elevators, asking to see your room card/key. I know that Vegas has had problems in the recent past, but I could tell they aren’t quite sure what to do about it.

Hawke

My next stop was at Hawke, the scope manufacturer. I saw a scope with not less than 8-inches of eye relief! Called the Vantage Turkey Dot, it’s a 1-4X20 that you hunters should look into when it comes out.

Hawke Vantage 1-4X20 Turkey Dot.

What this scope will do for airgunners is allow them to mount it forward of the back of the rifle. It’s a little longer than a Bug Buster and probably ideal for some guns like the Dragonfly 2. It will probably sell for $220.

Josh and Mirfee Unger

At the AirForce booth I ran into Joshua and Mirfee Unger. Josh is the founder of Pyramyd AIR. They came as a surprise to see AirForce and also to see the folks at Air Venturi.

Josh and Mirfee Ungier. Josh founded Pyramyd AIR and Air Venturi. They enjoyed being back at SHOT once again.

Survival Airguns

My last stop was at the Survival Airguns booth. Their name includes two words I don’t expect to hear together — survival and airguns. This I had to see.

Zeus — The Zeus is a .72 caliber (12-gauge) rifle that I was told develops 1,500 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. If it can do that it is hands-down the most powerful air rifle in the world.

The Zeus is Survival Airguns big boy.

Zeus cornflakes. Seventy-two caliber hollowpoints made by Mr. Hollowpoint.

Summary

And that was the show. But for Monday I’m writing one more report that catches most of the things that haven’t yet been in the reports of the last four days. This SHOT was good, and I can see the industry is changing. Some companies are growing while others are fading away. I guess that’s life.

Compact is a term that’s seen as rather relative in most things. In the gun world, the term compact pistol seems firmly rooted as a firearm’s descriptor.

What size is compact?

Typically, a compact pistol has a barrel length between 3.7 to 4 inches. It also sports a double-stack type magazine with a capacity of at least 15 rounds (if 9mm) and features similar to a full-sized gun – like a rail for lights and optics compatibility.

The Glock 19 defined an entire generation of pistols as the standard-bearer for what a compact pistol should be. It’s small enough to be carried concealed but big enough to be a duty or home defense pistol.

New generations have seen a rail for lights and a cut for optics.

Being a standard-bearer meant you were innovative enough to be successful. However, does that mean the Glock 19 is the best compact pistol on the market?

I don’t think so.

I appreciate Glocks, and I own them, but I think Glock has gotten complacent. They still equip those not-so-great sights to their guns, and they won’t release the MOS 3 to us average joes. Not to mention, they ignore most ergonomic complaints until a big contract calls for changes.

With that in mind, if the Glock 19 is no longer the best, what is?

That’s tough. The compact handgun genre has become incredibly popular and is filled with outstanding options.

I can’t tell you which is the very best, but I can tell which guns are gunning for Glock’s top spot.

So, keep reading to see some Glock 19 alternatives in the compact realm.

THE QUICK LIST

Best Glock 19 Alternatives

1. CZ P-10C

CZ produced a striker-fired pistol before, but we don’t talk about the CZ 100. What the CZ 100 got wrong doesn’t matter because the CZ P-10C got it right. The latest and arguably greatest strike-fired from CZ hit all the right marks.

The C stands for compact, and the barrel measures 4.02 inches long, the capacity of flush-fitting magazines is 15 rounds, and the pistol is 1.26 inches wide.

Optics-ready options are available, and the gun comes with a Picatinny rail and backstraps to adjust for different hand sizes.

On top of that, CZ makes numerous models with different features, including suppressor height sights, threaded barrels, and different frame colors.

The P-10C does a few things notably better than the Glock…

First, the trigger is superior. It’s a cleaner break with a flat-faced trigger that performs better and feels better in hand.

Second, I find the ergonomics to be phenomenal. This includes the slide lock placement, the magazine release size, and the ultra-aggressive grip texture.

Oh, and the sights are made of metal — not plastic.

Glock still has CZ licked in simplicity and magazine prices as CZ mags are pricey. While the P10-C can be upgraded with new controls, triggers, etc., the Glock is still the easier gun to work on.

Even so, the P-10C offers more features, better ergonomics, and more configurations, and they do so for about the same price as a Glock 19.

Want to learn more? Check out our review of the CZ P-10C.

2. Walther PDP Compact

PDP might as well stand for Pretty Damn Perfect because Walther blew it out of the park with this gun. The PDP is a successor and evolution of the PPQ.

It’s the first pistol I know of designed with the use of red dots in mind.

That said, of course, it’s red dot ready and outfitted with a plate system superior to the Glock MOS system in design.

The PDP compact features a 4-inch barrel, a width of 1.34 inches, and a magazine capacity of 15 rounds.

Walther designed the gun’s grip ergonomics around using a red dot, which shows.

Finding the dot and completing a good presentation of the gun makes it easy to find and quick on target. That by itself is innovative and makes the PDP Compact stand out.

Like the PPQ, the PDP features an amazing trigger. In fact, it’s even better than the PPQ with a shorter travel and a tactile reset you can’t miss.

Hot dang, the ergonomics of the PDP are awesome, and the gun feels so good in the hand. Besides feeling gun, the grip texture and the slide serrations are aggressive and sticky.

All the controls are large and easy to engage, especially the slide lock. Walther also allows you to swap frames and slides to create numerous gun configurations.

Glock does come in cheaper at both gun and magazine prices, though.

The Glock MOS series provide the plates to the shooter, while the PDP forces owners to order their free plate from Walther. Glocks are also easier to find and widely available.

The Walther PDP continues Walther’s tradition of being very underrated and under-appreciated.

In most respects, Walther’s Compact model blows the Glock away and is an awesome gun.

Want to learn more? Check out our written review here or watch the video review below!

3. Sig Sauer P320C

If one gun has been eating Glock’s lunch, it’s been the P320C.

Every day it seems like law enforcement departments are adopting the P320 — and we can’t forget the military’s adoption of the pistol.

I’ll give you two guesses at what the C in P320C stands for, and here is a hint, it doesn’t stand for cat. The compact variant hits us with 15-round magazines, a barrel length of 3.9 inches, and a width of 1.4 inches.

Sig loves to make a variety of configurations, and the P320C comes in seemingly half a dozen different variants.

The standard model is what we’ll be referencing today. The gun’s main draw will be its modularity.

The internal FCU is the actual “gun” portion. So this lets shooters easily remove the FCU and swap grip modules and slide sizes. I use a number of grip modules with my P320C, including one that allows the use of P365 mags.

Besides that, Sig includes real, all-metal sights that are almost always Sig LITE night sights. They also offer numerous optics-ready models, ambidextrous or reversible controls, and that 1911-like angle we all adore in the good ole US of A.

What does Glock do better? Provides magazines at a decent price point.

Sig is quite proud of their Italian-made mags. Beyond that, it’s tough to justify the Glock 19 in favor of the P320C.

I’m hoping guns like the Sig Sauer P320 force Glock to innovate and release those innovations to us. (Where’s the Glock 46 Gaston?)

4. HK P30

I will defy the article I’m writing by introducing a DA/SA hammer-fired gun instead of a striker-fired model.

The P30 doesn’t have a “compact” designation but fits the bill. HK gives us a 3.9-inch barrel, a width of 1.37 inches, and 15 rounds of 9mm in the magazine.

The DA/SA action of the HK P30 means the gun’s outfitted with a decocker. It’s not a conventional decocker, but it’s one of my favorites. HK placed it at the rear of the gun, right by the hammer, for easy engagement.

It also offers an awesome European magazine release that sits on the trigger guard — ambidextrous and easy to manipulate. The controls, in general, are massive and easy to engage.

This is one of the few pistols I can shoot with a thumb’s forward grip without pinning down the slide lock.

On the ergonomic front, a gun with replaceable backstraps is nothing new. However, HK went a step further with replaceable backstraps and side panels.

You can definitely customize the gun to fit your hand beyond what Glock offers.

Thankfully, HK got rid of their proprietary rail and gave us a true Picatinny rail.

Beyond that, Glock does a few things better. Like the magazines, which is a recurring theme. Also, Glock makes an optics-ready model — HK doesn’t do the same with the P30.

The HK P30 differs slightly with its DA/SA design, but it’s a fantastic firearm with interesting ergonomics. It might not appeal to everyone, but it’s a winner in my book.

5. Beretta APX Centurion

Poor Beretta deserved a lot more recognition for the APX series. It’s easy for striker-fired pistols to get lost in the mix, but the APX presented a fantastic pistol.

The Centurion model uses 15-round magazines, a barrel length of 3.7 inches, and a width of 1.3 inches.

This model delivers the closest we get to a compact pistol in this lineup. (Beretta’s actual compact APX is more of a subcompact.)

The APX was Beretta’s entry into the MHS trials and, like the P320, uses an integral chassis from easy-grip swaps.

Beretta released a few different frame sizes and frames with finger grooves and without. APX Centurion owners can swap the back strap, which also changes the side panels of the grip.

The APX trigger might be average and on par with Glock, but holy crap is it an accurate and controllable gun.

This little fella is super easy to shoot accurately and quickly. The APX ergonomics and configuration make it easier to control with more accuracy than I expected.

Size-wise it’s a little smaller than the Glock 19 and easier to conceal, but we still get a rail system.

The RDO model allows the shooter to top it off with a red dot on demand, and the ergonomics lend themselves well to adding a red dot.

Glock’s G19 still…you guessed it, makes magazines cheaper. And the Glock 19 is much more readily available. Finding the APX Centurion can be tough, and finding the RDO model can be even tougher.

Beretta makes them…allegedly.

The APX Centurion is a top-tier Italian stallion; believe it or not; it’s one of the most affordable pistols on this list.

Right now, you can purchase it for less than $400 — that’s a lot of guns for such a low price.

6. Sig Sauer P365 XL

You may claim the Sig Sauer P365 XL isn’t a compact pistol. You might be right, but then what is it?

The P365 XL has a 3.7-inch barrel, a 15-round magazine, and a width of 1.1 inches. It’s smaller than the Glock 19 but still meets the dimensions of a compact pistol.

This gun packs a rail…even though it’s proprietary, it can mount a TLR 7 SUB. Don’t forget, you can also attach a red dot, and every P365 XL is optic ready.

The main benefit is that the P365 is much thinner than the Glock 19. It easily pulls double duty as a self-defense handgun and a concealed carry pistol.

Not to mention, it conceals easier…and that matters to a lot of smaller shooters.

Besides being a little smaller, it packs the same style of FCU the P320 does. You can use multiple grip modules from Sig and the aftermarket to get various grip sizes, terrains, features, and more.

Heck, I have an all-metal grip for my P365. What’s not to love?

Besides being optics ready, we also get great Sig Day/Night sights, a great trigger, an ergonomic grip, and multiple options for magazines. The 15-rounder fits, but so do 12-rounders which shrink the gun.

What Glock does better, besides magazines, is control. The larger, wider grip offers better control over the gun, making it easier to fire faster and more accurately.

The Sig Sauer P365 XL redefines a compact handgun and offers an option for someone who might prioritize concealment more than control.

7. Glock 48 MOS

So, for those who MUST have a Glock but still want to scoot around the Glock 19…check out the Glock 48 MOS.

It’s basically a single-stack Glock 19 in size – with a slightly longer barrel at 4.17 inches but a width of only 1.1 inches.

The stock magazines only contain 10 rounds, but a company called Shield makes a flush-fitting 15-round all-metal magazine that gives it Glock 19 capacity.

The MOS model tosses on an optic’s cut and a rail for mini lights like the TLR 7 SUB.

Basically, this version, alongside Shield mags, gives you a Glock 19 that’s smaller than the Glock 19.

The main thing the G48 does better is concealment. It slips under clothes very easily and makes the gun-friendly to carry. Even though it’s more carry-friendly, the hand-filling grip makes it easy to control and manage.

Like the Glock 19, the Glock 48 is simple, reliable, and robust.

It’s customizable, and numerous companies produce magazines for the weapon. However, the Shield mags are the only option that offers you compact capacity with a flush-fitting design.

Final Thoughts

Though the Glock fanguys and girls will lament the fact that I’m suggesting anything other than Gaston’s Glory, the PPT team likes options.

So, when you want something that’s just as good (or even better…yeah, I said it) than Glock, check out the options above.

Which gun do you think out Glocks the Glock 19? Or have I committed sacrilege even suggesting such a thing? Let me know below. If you need a Glock, check out our list of the Best Glock Models or the Glock Clones we think are worthy of your attention.

The rut is over. The majority of deer season is behind us. The late season is here, and soon, it’ll be a distant memory, too. But for now, we still have tags to fill. With dropping testosterone, and months of heavy hunting pressure, it’s a different game.

So, it begs the question, should you tap that late-season deer on the shoulder? Or completely stay off its radar? Well, it depends. But most of the time, it’s probably best to hit the mute button.

Late-Season Dynamics

Mike Dukart, CEO and owner of Illusion Systems, and J.J. Dukart, president of The Deer Society, are both seasoned whitetail hunters and experts in whitetail vocalization.

Naturally, it was a breath of fresh air when these guys — who make a living selling grunt tubes (and other deer gear) — advised caution on calling to pressured and late-season bucks. That kind of genuineness and honesty can be rare in business, and it immediately captured my attention.

Of course, most states’ gun seasons fall in November and December. That translates to a lot of applied hunting pressure throughout the last two months of the year. It takes a toll on deer, and these animals respond to that.

“In Minnesota, gun season opens up when they start becoming the most boisterous and active (pre-rut and rut),” Mike says. “All of this human pressure (and guns) that’s going on in their normal habitat completely changes their behavior. They get skittish. We don’t get to interact with them a whole lot because they’re overcalled and over-pressured. They go nocturnal. Seeing a deer and trying to naturally call or communicate with it is 100% harder once they start getting pressured.”

However, to minimize impact on their own grounds, Mike prefers to leave his hunting properties alone during times of heavy pressure. This gives deer a safe zone, because he’s certain that whitetails almost always filter into areas that offer less pressure. They also respond better to calling later in the year.

Alternate Forms of Communication

As deer transition into the post-rut and beyond, they become much less vocal and less outgoing. While deer were very extroverted throughout the rut, they’re becoming the introverted beings they always are after the breeding season ends, and after being hunted hard.

That doesn’t mean they aren’t communicating though. Mike and J.J. both agree that deer still convey messages to one another.

“I think scent and visual cues are some of the things that pick up during (and after) gun seasons,” J.J. says. “Once all of that pressure kicks in, from a communication standpoint, the more natural you can be the better. Deer have been on edge for weeks. Human scent is all over the woods. The rut is winding down. Their minds are a little clearer than they were a few weeks ago.”

In other words, it’s probably best to lay off the grunt-snort-wheezes, and other battle cry and war whoop vocalizations, too. Both Mike and J.J. notice other forms of communication really pick up after deer have been pressured.

“One of the things that I’ve been picking up on with trail cameras, and also just throughout the years, is the amount of communication via scent, scrapes and rubs,” Mike says. “This definitely increases and becomes the dominant way for them to communicate. Bucks pee on everything. They’re rubbing glands on everything they can find. They’re not only letting the does know they’re there but also letting the other bucks.”

Of course, the rut kickstarts this behavior. Testosterone levels are rising. Does are pushing away fawns. Every deer in the woods is freaking out and wondering what’s going on in the world, as the Dukarts put it.

That said, by the late season, dropping testosterone, hunting pressure and lack of will to confront rival bucks causes these deer to get quieter. But they definitely still communicate via body language and scent.

“By smelling each other, they know exactly who it is,” Mike says. “So, if that buck comes in there and makes a rub or hits that scrape, other bucks know who it is, and if he isn’t from that area.”

These guys create situations to take advantage of this behavior. They make mock scrapes in key areas that are advantageous for hunting, or near cameras where they can gather intel.

Deer use posturing and other varieties of body language to transfer messages, too. Short of using a decoy — which isn’t a common late-season tactic — this isn’t actionable information for hunters though.

Making the Right Late-Season Call

The truth is that deer hunting isn’t black and white. It’s highly situational. You might see a deer during the late season that’s acting extremely aggressive. That’s generally the exception and not the rule, however. More times than not, it’s better to be passive in the vocalization department.

“I would call less frequently,” Mike says. “I wouldn’t challenge deer or put a lot of emotion into anything. Even if I did an estrus bleat, it wouldn’t be a crazy or wild one. If anything, I’d try to mimic that hunter mentality of the does coming back together with the fawns. There’s a little bit more communication going on there. Create an illusion of deer that a buck might want to come check out.”

Generally, that comes in the form of soft doe and fawn bleats, and subtle grunts. Don’t be very loud, though. Keep it quiet, and keep the frequency to a minimum. That’s normal behavior for this time of year.

Like Mike, J.J. highly encourages keeping things natural, such as light sparring or soft contact grunts. Given that the occasional adult doe or doe fawn might enter estrus late in the season, he even gives the nod to a few doe estrus bleats. He certainly stresses keeping the volume down, though.

“Start low enough that maybe they don’t hear you, and then work your way up,” J.J. says. “A lot of people call too loud and put deer on the defensive. It spooks and educates them.”

Calling aside, there are certain tactics that work better during the late season. Mike acknowledges this, and that’s pretty cool.

“At this time of year, as far as calling goes, I would try more to get deer patterned,” Mike says. “They’re settling into a place where they’re around food, and [where] they feel more comfortable. They’re going to [create] a pattern during the late season. I would focus more on that, and be aggressive on getting into position to get a shot at that deer than I would about trying to call a deer into a stand that’s been there all year long.”

Enough said.

Airguns, including big-bore airguns, have been around for a long time. Big bore air rifles are in a category totally of their own—some of which can take down deer-sized game. In the past six months or so I have worked with a few, as the idea of using an air rifle on deer, foxes, coyotes or even hogs intrigues me. The most recent example I’ve reviewed is the Winchester Model 70/35. If you have never shot a big bore air rifle, you really need to try one … and you can’t go wrong starting with the Winchester Model 70/35.

Out of the box

Right out of the box this air rifle impressed me. Although it was a bit heavier than some of the air rifles I have shot, the extra weight was worth it for the gorgeous beechwood stock and well-fitted parts. This rifle looks like a professional grade crafted tool. The pressure gauge is conveniently located under the stock, but out of sight so as not to detract from the classic look of this rifle. I put a CV LIFE 3-9×40 scope on the rifle. The scope is not expensive at all, but given the number of rounds it helped me put downrange with accurate movement of point of impact I decided to get another one.

Once the scope was mounted I charged the air rifle with the included adapter and loaded the magazines with Winchester .35 caliber 95-grain hollowpoints and went to my range. I began with a target at 25 yards and took the first few shots. This rifle was blissful to shoot right out of the box! The trigger is incredibly smooth and crisp—hands-down the best air rifle trigger I have ever pulled.

As for report, the rifle cracks less than a .22, but it is loud enough that if you live near someone they are going to wonder what you are doing, no doubt. (As always, eye and ear protection are required!) Cocking the rifle is easy. Fully chambering the pellet takes a firm push on the side lever, but nothing over the top by any means.

Accuracy Testing

Shots were consistent magazine after magazine with only one or two thrown outside of 1.5 inches … and I am quite sure that was my doing. I shot this rifle nearly 100 times in one sitting because it was so enjoyable. Charging it did not take that long, just five minutes or so on my powered compressor. I shot three magazines before I went to recharge the rifle each time, and I think I could have squeezed out a few more shots had I wanted to do so. Shots at 25 yards were in the same hole or touching.

I moved the target out to 50 yards and had approximately 1-inch groups time and again. Moving the target out a tad further the groups were still very impressive at less than 2 inches.

I would feel very comfortable shooting predators, groundhogs or nuisance animals with this at ranges up to 100 yards. I had hoped to get a shot at a deer with my special deer permit, but I wanted to keep my shots on deer at 50 yards or less. I did not get that opportunity yet. (Hopefully I will get a chance later this season.) This rifle groups very well!

While shooting at longer ranges with the sun behind me filtering through the trees, I could get glimpses of the pellet in flight from time to time much like you can sometimes see a crossbow bolt. Still, the pellets impacted my target well within the vital zone for hunting all the time.

The nice thing about a .35 caliber is that there are a slew of pellet choices out there. Honestly, the 95-grain hollowpoint Winchesters shot so well I did not try a bunch of other brands or weights. I would caution readers to make sure any pellets you purchase will fit in the magazine. Some pellets I had are too long to fit and be loaded into the rifle. Again, you cannot go wrong with the Winchester 95 gain hollow points based on my experience.

I was pleasantly surprised how these pellets ripped through the wooden slats of my target frame, so the thin skin of a predator shouldn’t be a problem. Take careful shots to hit vitals and you should be able to remove pests, no issues. However, remember that these pellets are going approximately 800 feet per second or less, so it is conceivable that the animal may hear the shot just before impact and duck if shot at longer ranges. So, keep that in mind if deer hunting with it.

In summary, this is the best rifle I have shot all year that is air powered. It is a joy to shoot and accurate too. The instructions are basic, but adequate. If you are looking for a classy, big bore, accurate air rifle, look no further. The Winchester 70/35 will more than leave you satisfied. MSRP $840; WinchesterAirRifles.com

Specs:

Caliber: .35 caliber

Action: Precharged Pneumatic side lever cock with 2 six shot rotary magazines included

Capacity: Internal cylinder holds up to 230 bar of pressure

Features: Manual safety, rubber recoil pad, beautiful beechwood stock with raised comb on left side for right handed shooters

Sights: but has an 11mm dovetail groove for mounting a scope.

Power: Delivers up to 132 ft.-lbs. energy with an 81-gr. pellet.

Comes with a 1-year warranty.

March is here, and some turkey seasons have already opened. With that, it is time to look into the best states for hunting turkeys this season. Though recent years have seen a decline in overall turkey populations across the U.S., states are adjusting their regulations to help level these fluctuating numbers to ensure that the wild turkey—and these hunting opportunities—will be around for generations to come.

If your home state made the list, then you’re in luck, grab a tag and get in the field. If you are living in a state where turkey hunting isn’t very accessible, maybe it’s time to fill up the gas tank and hit the road. These states made the list after considering current populations estimates, season length, bag limits and opportunity for the traveling hunter. Here are the seven best states to hunt turkeys this spring.

Table of Contents

• California
• Mississippi
• Alabama
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Maine
• South Dakota

California

Coming in at number one is California. Though it might be known as one of the most extreme states for attacking our hunting heritage, California can be a great state to chase turkeys. The population there is a true conservation success story. Just ten years ago the population was down around 250,000. But now, with an estimated population nearing 400,000 birds, California is a gold mine. Season runs from March 25th until the end of April and each hunter is allotted a bag limit of three gobblers per season. With three of the four subspecies needed to complete the Grand Slam and decent public-land access, the Golden State could easily be considered the top sleeper state for turkeys.

Season Dates: General Season – Mar 25 – Apr 30; Archery Only – May 1 – 14

Tag Cost: $75.60/resident; $210.34/non-resident

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

Mississippi

If you don’t want to head all the way to the West Coast, try the great state of Mississippi. This allows you to kick off your season down South with the earliest opener of the year on this list. With a turkey population of just over a quarter million birds, the ‘Sip season starts on March 15th and runs through the beginning of May. With ample amounts of public land throughout the entire state, there’s no shortage of hunting opportunity. Although, the Mississippi Delta is a region worth homing in on when planning your trip. Mississippi has a generous bag limit of three gobblers with beards six inches or longer and hunters took more than 22,000 birds last season. It’s easy to see why Mississippi ranks so high and it’s a great option to chase a swamp bird this spring.

Season Dates: Mar 15 – May 1

Tag Cost: $27.29/resident; $212.50/ 7-day non-resident

Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, & Parks

Alabama

Alabama is one of the states that has seen a slight decline in overall turkey numbers in recent years, but still boasts a population of 365,000 birds. With the highest bag limit of any state on this list, you can take one gobbler per day, not to exceed four total for the spring and fall seasons. Zone 1 opens on March 25th but doesn’t allow decoy use until April 4th; Zone 2 opens April 1st with decoys legal to use on April 11th. Alabama has an abundance of public land for hunters to try their luck on, but just as with most southern states, hunting pressure could be high. But it’d be hard pressed to not have Bama in the top three.

Season Dates: Zone 1 & 3: Mar 25 – May 8; Zone 2: Apr 1 – May 8

Tag Cost: $30.25/resident; $216.20/ 10-day non-resident

Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Tennessee

Coming in at the fourth spot is Tennessee. With a liberal bag limit and lengthy season, I’d definitely volunteer to go there this season. Tennessee has a healthy population of more than 250,000 birds, a good amount of public land from the hills to the hollers and a season spanning six weeks. If you haven’t stood on a ridge in the dawning of a new day and heard the echoes of gobbles ringing out in multiple directions, you’re flat missing out. Make sure to put Tennessee on your list and try your wits against one of these eastern toms.

Season Dates: Apr 15 – May 28

Tag Cost: $66/resident; $214/ 7-day non-resident

Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency

Texas

The old adage of everything is bigger in Texas rings true in regard to turkey hunting this state. With the largest population in the U.S.— over half a million birds—there’s no doubt Texas could be the best place to take a true Rio Grande. Though there are limited public-land opportunities, Texas has numerous management areas that allow access for hunters. This state has multiple season dates to consider depending on where you’ll be hunting as well as varying bag limits, so be sure to read the regulations thoroughly before planning your trip. But with the incredible population and low pressure, it’s easy to see why this state ranks number five as a turkey hunter’s paradise.

Season Dates: Eastern: Apr. 22 – May 14; Rio Grande North Zone: Apr. 1 – May 14; Rio Grande South Zone: Mar. 18 – Apr. 30

Tag Cost: $25/resident; $133/non-resident

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department

Maine

Maine might surprise you as the number six spot on our list due to its small size, but it has a relatively high number of turkeys. This little state in the northeastern part of our country can offer great turkey hunting. It’s also one of the only states that gives you the opportunity to hunt birds all the way into June. There is plenty of publicly accessible land, and it’s one of those states where a door knock, and a handshake, might just get you access to prime ground. With a bag limit of two bearded birds per season, and season dates that allow you to stretch every second out of spring, Maine must be on your list. Don’t overlook the northeast corner of the U.S. for turkey opportunities.

Season Dates: May 1 – June 3

Tag Cost: $46/resident; $115/non-resident

Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife

South Dakota

One of the most coveted birds of the Grand Slam is the Merriam’s, and so many turkey hunters dream of notching a tag on one of these birds. That’s why South Dakota must be on this list. With over 2.3 million acres of public land and three quarters of that located around the Black Hills region, those of you looking to fill a tag on a Merriam’s just might be in luck. Though overall numbers have seen a slight downward trend, there is still a dense population along river corridors and a well-established population covering most of this state. Add in a season that runs almost two months, buckle up because it can get a bit western chasing these overly vocal birds.

Season Dates: Single-season Prairie units – Apr 8 – May 31; Black Hills – Apr 22 – May 31

Tag Cost: $25/resident; $100/non-resident

South Dakota Game, Fish and Parks

Maybe you’re like me and love traveling to different states to test your skills against different birds, or maybe you’re chasing that elusive U.S. Super Slam of a bird in each of the 49 states that have an established season. Regardless of your motivation, these seven states are the best places to spend your time chasing gobbles this year. Get out there and enjoy it this spring, we only get so many.