Ever dream about carrying your Glock with you everywhere?

We get it…your Glock 19 is the go-to concealed carry weapon for many.

It’s also the standard sidearm for tons of law enforcement agencies and military organizations around the world.

But if you want to carry your Glock with you, you need a holster.

The Glock 19’s popularity means there’s a huge market of compatible holsters for you to choose from.

Unfortunately, all those options can make it difficult to figure out what’s a good holster at a good price that fits your individual needs.

Fortunately, you’ve got us!

In this guide, we’ll tell you what features any holster needs to have, give you the rundown on the various holster types out there, and finally, give you recommendations for holsters in each category.

THE QUICK LIST

Choosing a Good Holster

Your holster’s most basic job is to hold your firearm when you’re not using it. But it also needs to protect your firearm — both from being dropped and from bumps and scrapes.

It also prevents accidental discharge and allows you to quickly draw your firearm when the situation calls for it…whether that’s in competition or a defensive situation.

So how do you make sure that a holster can do all that?

Comfort

Don’t underestimate how important comfort is.

It may seem secondary compared to the other qualities we’ll discuss, but if you’re not comfortable in your holster, you probably won’t wear it.

If you don’t wear your holster, you’ll still be in the position of needing to buy a holster for your Glock 19, plus you’ll have wasted money on a useless holster that just sits around taking up space.

And, if your home is anything like mine, you don’t need any more useless stuff sitting around taking up space.

So, like anything else you wear, try on a potential holster before you buy it, if at all possible. If you can’t try it on, at least make sure you can return it in case you don’t like it.

When trying on a holster, imitate the normal motions you go through during the day.

Make sure the holster doesn’t twist or rub. A little bit of rubbing may seem like it’s not a big deal, but over time it can lead to irritation, bruises, and blisters.

If your holster isn’t comfortable on your skin, you’ll need to wear a barrier between your holster and your skin or opt for a different holster entirely.

Rubbing from holsters made of hard materials will lead to more irritation, and an undershirt may not be enough to prevent it.

You also want to make sure that your holster won’t slip or shift.

Protection

Holsters constructed from durable and protective materials shield your Glock 19 against bumps and abrasion.

Most holsters are made of leather, nylon, or a polymer like Kydex, which all offer plenty of protection.

Retention

Retention just means that your holster won’t allow your gun to fall out of it.

The go-to litmus test for retention is simply turning the holster upside down. If your gun stays firmly in place, you’ve got plenty of retention.

Yes, I know most of you probably won’t be doing cartwheels or headstands in your holster, but what if you’re in an altercation and get knocked down?

The last thing you want is for your gun to slip out of your holster so your assailant can grab it before you recover.

Even outside of a defensive situation, you don’t want your gun to fall out while doing normal daily activities, like running, getting in and out of a vehicle, or using the bathroom.

Holsters use an active retention system, a passive retention system, or both at once.

An active retention system means that the user has to take steps to engage and disengage the retention system.

Common examples of active retention are thumb breaks or straps that the user must release before they can pull their weapon from the holster.

A passive retention system means the scabbard of the holster (the part that actually holds the gun) fits snugly around the gun and is molded to the shape of the gun.

This increases surface area contact, which combines to keep the gun firmly in place using friction.

Typically, passive retention holsters use screws that allow you to adjust how tightly the scabbard fits around the gun, allowing the user to adjust the level of friction and, by extension, the level of retention.

Just remember that while retention is absolutely important, you also need to be able to draw your firearm quickly.

Passive systems typically allow quicker access. But there’s a wide range of active retention holsters available as well.

Concealment

This is exactly what it sounds like…how visible is the holster when you wear it?

It’s difficult to talk about concealability briefly since holster type, shape, and material -in addition to the wearer’s build and clothing choices — all impact that.

You’ll also want to try a variety of different holster types to get an idea of what’s most easily concealed on your unique body type and under the clothes that you like to wear.

If you only plan on carrying openly, you may not need to worry about concealability.

Still, it’s nice to know that you already have a concealable holster should you ever decide that you want to carry concealed after all.

On the other hand, I don’t want to rob you of an excuse to buy another holster. You do you.

Trigger Coverage

This is another factor that’s pretty self-explanatory — your holster needs to cover your Glock 19’s trigger to stop the accidental discharge.

Not all holsters do this, but there’s no reason to risk it.

Positive Grip

This simply means that you should be able to draw your gun with one hand with a ready-to-shoot combat grip regardless of position and even in close quarters.

The holster needs to make this efficient, but you can’t expect it to carry the full burden here. You also need to consistently drill to make sure that you can do this reliably.

Holster Types

Now you know what you need from a holster, so let’s move on to holster types.

Outside the Waistband

Once again, we have something that is exactly what it sounds like.

Outside the waistband (OWB), holsters attach to your waistband or belt and are carried on the outside of it.

This is a very visible style, so it’s usually what people think of when they think of a holster, but it’s actually not a particularly popular holster, precisely because it’s so visible.

Their positioning makes them difficult to hide under clothing because they either peek out from under them or print (show a visible bulge).

On the other hand, OWB holsters tend to be quite comfortable and position your firearm where it can be quickly and easily accessed.

Inside the Waistband

And inside the waistband (IWB), holsters are similar, but they sit — you guessed it; inside of your waistband.

They’re probably the most popular holster type for concealed carry since they are easily hidden under clothing.

The cost is that they can be uncomfortable (though an undershirt goes a long way in helping this), and establishing a positive grip is more difficult.

Shoulder

If you’ve seen just about any movie about spies or law enforcement, then you’ve almost certainly seen a shoulder holster.

They’re actually a popular choice among plainclothes law enforcement in real life, too — but not so much among civilians.

They’re easily concealed under a jacket, but that obviously means that you have to keep your jacket on as long as you want to keep your firearm concealed.

They also conceal well under loose shirts, but this makes it more difficult to access your gun, especially if your shirt is tucked in.

Ankle

While ankle holsters aren’t usually the first choice for concealed carry since they can be uncomfortable, they can be used for backup guns.

With an ankle holster, you’re trading quick and convenient access for deep concealment. Also, remember that running and drawing from this holster is impossible. You will have to stop to get to your gun, which could be problematic depending on the situation.

Nevertheless, if you love a good backup gun or have no other option, this can work in a pinch.

Women-Specific Holsters

Now, women can wear any of the holster types we’ve discussed, but unless indicated otherwise, the vast majority of holsters are designed with men’s bodies in mind.

That means they may not be as comfortable on functional when worn by a woman.

You may not have encountered any problems with non-women-specific holsters, but if you do, you can find holsters of all of the above types that are actually designed for women.

There are also holster types that are generally women-specific, like thigh holsters, carry purses, and purse holsters.

For a more comprehensive look at women’s concealed carry, check out our Guide to Carrying for Women or Best Concealed Carry Gear for Women.

Best Glock 19 Holsters

You asked for it, and we listened — here’s a rundown of some of the best holsters for your Glock 19. We’ve rounded up a few of each type, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Best OWB Holsters

1. Fobus Tactical GLT19

The Fobus Tactical GLT19 offers a low profile for an OWB holster. So, it’s a great option if you want to practice concealed carry but aren’t a fan of IWB holsters.

It’s made of Kydex to offer complete protection and trigger coverage with a paddle-style back to keep the holster in place.

The GLT19 brings a blended retention system with a safety strap and fits Glock 19s with laser sights as well.

2. Gould & Goodrich B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster

For a more classic look, go with the G&G B803 Three Slot Pancake Holster.

It’s made of genuine, vegetable-dyed leather but is also molded to more securely fit your Glock.

The B803 is available in both left and right-handed versions and can be positioned straight or canted.

Best IWB Holsters

3. Rounded Gear IWB Kydex Holster

It’s no secret that Rounded Gear (formerly Concealment Express) holsters are popular here at Pew Pew Tactical.

This one, in particular, is lightweight, comfortable, and secure, both in how it attaches to your waistband and in how it retains your gun.

The durable Kydex provides excellent protection.

It’s great for a variety of carry positions but does especially well for appendix carry.

Check out Eric’s more complete review of Concealment Express holsters for more info, pics, and videos of them in action.

4. Tenicor Holsters

If you know you want to carry appendix carry and require the most thought-out holster…check out Tenicor’s Velo.

They shaped the Kydex into something more anatomically pleasing. And it really does feel better.

Plus, the size for their light-bearing Sagax Lux model isn’t too much larger.

Their standard T1 clip is also SUPER retentive — takes longer to put on, but it’s not coming off unless you want it to. Other more standard options are available too.

And, of course…it’s super fast on the draw.

The only downside is the price compared to other pure Kydex. But if you carry for a living and want something super comfortable in the appendix…

5. Crossbreed SuperTuck

Crossbreed’s SuperTuck is another Kydex IWB holster, but this one is a “hybrid” with a soft leather backing for improved comfort.

It can be comfortably worn with a tucked or untucked shirt and is supposed to be positioned toward the rear of your draw side.

Another one of our favorites.

Plus, the belt clips are powder-coated to protect your belt and allow for adjustable cant and ride height.

6. Alien Gear Cloak Tuck 3.5

As the name might tell you, the Cloak Tuck 3.5 is a holster with a lot of iteration and development behind it.

We have a complete hands-on review of the 3.0 version, and we liked it a LOT.

The 3.5 version is even better, with improved retention options and better connections to the belt.

Plus, all of the awesome things we loved in the 3.0, such as a cooling neoprene backing, hardshell holster front, and high backing to prevent the handgun from digging into your side, and it’s available for a HUGE range of guns — not JUST the Glock 19.

A great starter (or ender) into the IWB world.

7. Hidden Hybrid Holsters

Our current favorite hybrid holster uses Amish leather, which makes it super comfy.

Especially when paired with the suede backer.

They have plenty of options for the G19, such as a single clip (for appendix carry) to a double-clip if you want more comfort in the 4-5 o’clock arena. Or you just want a laser/light.

Check out our full review of Hidden Hybrid, where we’ll cover everything you might need to know.

Our Editor’s pick for the comfiest hybrid G19 holster we’ve tried so far.

What’s your take on Hidden Hybrid Holsters? Rate them below.

Best Shoulder Holsters

8. Galco Gunleather Classic Lite Shoulder Holster

The Classic Lite Shoulder Holster is exactly what you imagine when you think of a shoulder holster.

It’s made of soft leather for a classic look and comfortable fit and is available for either left or right-handed draw.

A mag holster and gear loop are on the side opposite your gun holster to add utility and keep the holster balanced.

A snap closure keeps your gun securely in place.

Best Ankle Holsters

9. Uncle Mike’s Nylon Ankle Holster

This is probably one of the most widely recommended ankle holsters.

It’s comfortable, with an adjustable velcro wrap that allows it to fit on a variety of leg sizes, while a breathable elastic calf garter keeps the holster securely in place.

A velcro closure retention strap keeps your gun secure.

The holster is also padded to make it more comfortable. All that said, carrying a G19 on your ankle will take a special effort as this gun isn’t really made for deep concealment.

We recommend a smaller Glock (like the G43 or G26) to make this one work.

Honorable Mentions

10. PHLster IWB & OWB

We couldn’t end this list without talking about PHLster holsters. This company is a smaller shop but one that is dedicated to high-quality, solid holsters that conceal really well.

We personally have tired out their Floodlight IWB and OWB models as well as the newer Enigma system, and we can’t brag enough.

Yes, these are a little pricier than some models, but they are well worth the money!

Final Thoughts

You can’t go wrong with any of these holsters. But, to find the one that works best for you, try on and handle a variety.

Whichever holster or holster you go with, you’ll also need to be sure to drill to get yourself familiar with the holster. Also, continue to practice as long as you continue to use the holster to keep up your muscle memory.

Include drills that practice both drawing and holstering your Glock 19 and, if applicable, your spare magazine or magazines.

Our go-to affordable Kydex option is Concealment Express.

While our current favorite comfortable option is Hidden Hybrid.

So what holster did you choose to carry your Glock 19? Do you use one on our list, or have another favorite? Check out our master list of Best Concealed Carry Holsters.

After spending enough time in the field, aiming at and leading a duck may become second nature. You pull up, know where to shoot, and make a clean shot. This comes with many trial and errors and empty shotgun hulls without much to show for them. In this article, I’ll talk about the science behind how far to lead a duck, and how much margin for error there is.

A shooter needs to lead a duck by .24-5.16 feet to make a clean shot. The two distinct variables that determine how far each duck should be led by are: How far away the duck is, and how fast the duck is flying.

How to aim at a duck

Flight speed and lead distance

How far to lead a duck at 20 yards

How far to lead a duck at 30 yards

How far to lead a duck at 40 yards

Is is hard to shoot a duck?

*Note: as you’ll see later in the article, choke tube selection does not determine the distance a duck should be led by, but instead impacts the margin of error that a hunter can miss by.

How to aim at and lead a duck

To correctly aim at a duck, a hunter must shoot far enough in front of it to allow for the time delay between when the pellets leave the barrel of the gun, and when they arrive at the duck. The distance of how far to lead a duck by is determined by how far away from the hunter the duck is, and how fast the duck is flying.

I was interested in the math and science behind how far to lead a duck (I know, you can say it, I can get a little nerdy sometimes), so I started digging into the numbers. I learned a lot in the process and thought it was interesting enough to publish my findings. Scroll to the bottom of this article to see the calculations and equations I used to create these tables and charts.

Charts showing how far to lead a duck by

The tables below show the midpoint for leading a duck depending upon its flight speed. This represents how far you would need to aim ahead of the duck so it ends up in the exact middle of your pellet pattern. You don’t have to shoot spot on this midpoint to make a clean kill shot, meaning there is some margin of error which is discussed later in this article.

A duck that’s getting ready to land (flying 5 mph)

A duck that’s making an approach (flying 15 mph)

A duck flying by (flying 25 mph)

A duck making a fast pass (flying 40 mph)

Is it hard to shoot a duck?

Shotguns that shoot several pellets at the same time are used to hunt ducks, so there’s a margin of error both ahead of, and behind the midpoint, that would still allow for a clean kill shot. This margin of error is primarily determined by the choke tube used.

In some situations, like when the duck is getting ready to land, it can be easy to shoot a duck. On the other hand, if the bird is further away (30 yards or more), and flying fast (faster than 25 mph), it can be very challenging.

Chart showing inches you could shoot either ahead of or behind a duck and still make a clean kill shot using various choke tubes:

Calculations used in the experiment

There are numerous small variables in every hunting situation. They can’t all be accounted for, so I used the following assumptions for a control baseline in my calculations:

Check out our article about best shot sizes for ducks

• #2 Steele shot traveling 1365 fps
• 12 gauge 30 inch barrel
• Shotgun is patterned correctly
• Light/no wind
• No rain
• Average size duck

Equations used in article

Equation used for midpoint: (B/C) * A = X

A= speed (fps) the duck is traveling at: fps converted from mph

B= distance (ft) from duck (ft): Yards converted to ft

C= pellet speed (fps)

D= time (seconds) for pellets to reach target: (B/C)

X = Distance to lead duck by

Margin for error (inches) equation =

(Size of pellet spread that contains 65-70% of pellets at specified distance in ft) / (2)

Considerations that might impact my results:

• Using a smaller shot size would mean it would take more than 65% to 70% of the shell’s pellets to bring a duck down
• The longer the gun barrel, the tighter the pellet pattern. This can reduce the margin of error while increasing the effective distance
• Shotgun shells with slower/faster pellet speeds would increase/decrease how far a duck would need to be let by
• Larger ducks usually take more/larger pellets to bring down
• Using a 20 gauge would decrease the effective rage

Find the Ducks!

Kent County Man Convicted of Poaching 17-Point Buck

Sentenced Under Maryland’s New Anti-Poaching Law

A Kent County man convicted Tuesday of illegally killing a potential state record white-tailed deer was ordered to pay a fine, make restitution to the state and perform community service.

Ronald Wayne Roe, 28, of Worton, was found guilty on all counts of trespassing and poaching stemming from the shooting of a 17-point buck September on private property.

District Judge John Nunn III sentenced Roe to pay $5,000 in restitution and perform 80 hours of community service, as mandated by the state’s anti-poaching law. Roe also received a $500 fine – $250 suspended – and three years of unsupervised probation. His hunting privileges were suspended for two years. The trial lasted two days over the course of two months.

Joseph Bogdan, the landowner who had targeted the massive buck for several years only to have Roe shoot it, told Judge Nunn it was “the kind of deer that makes a good neighbor a bad neighbor.” At first, he said, he congratulated Roe but as the facts came out “it went sour after that. The deer was baited, killed and gutted on my property.”

A scorer for the Boone and Crockett Club, which measures deer antlers for possible records, said the rack was 212 7/8 total inches. That would have secured the club’s top spot for Maryland crossbow hunters and a top 10 overall state ranking.

The case began on Sept. 12, when officers received a call from a Kent County resident about a suspected case of illegal hunting involving a large buck. An officer located two piles of bait on Bogdan’s property adjacent to land owned by Roe and where he had placed a tree stand. The officer also found a blood trail leading from the bait to the spot where a buck had been field dressed.

Roe told police that he shot the deer with a crossbow on his property but that it died on his neighbor’s property. However, friends called by Roe after he killed the deer contradicted that account, testifying they helped drag the carcass to his property and then to his vehicle. Bogdan’s property was posted with “No Trespassing” signs in numerous locations.

The anti-poaching law took effect June. It requires judges to order restitution and community service in cases of deer poaching. The monetary penalty is based on the measurement of the antlers scored on the Boone and Crockett Club system. A buck with antlers scoring 150 or fewer points requires restitution of $2,000 to $5,000 and 80 hours of community service. A buck with antlers scoring more than 150 points requires restitution of $5,000 to $10,000 and 80 hours of community service. A deer without antlers requires restitution of $300 to $500 and 40 hours of community service.

Roe is the third man sentenced under the law.

Officers on patrol last weekend in the Woodbrook Cooperative Wildlife Management Area charged five Carroll County residents in connection with illegal off-road riding.

On Saturday, Galen Robert Monti Jr., 23, of Westminster, was arrested and charged with driving on a suspended license, displaying the license plate issued to another vehicle, operating an unregistered motor vehicle and operating a vehicle on state land without a permit.

A passenger, Tyler Alexander, 21, of Westminster, was taken into custody for being a fugitive from justice in Pennsylvania and was held pending extradition.

A dirt bike operator, Carl Young, 58, of New Windsor, was issued a citation for driving on state property without a permit.

On Sunday, officers arrested two all-terrain vehicle riders for illegal riding and attempting to flee after being ordered to stop.

Amber Nicole Blizzard, 18, and Michael Gary Walker, 19, both of Mount Airy, were charged with attempting to elude police, operating an off-road vehicle on public property without permission and operating a vehicle on state land without a permit. Walker also was charged with failing to obey a police officer.

Woodbrook is a 522-acre tract owned by Carroll County and managed by the department. No motorized vehicles are allowed.

Trial dates are pending for all five people.

Tips on social media led officers to charge an Allegany County man Friday with turkey and deer poaching.

James Corey Buckley, 43, of Little Orleans, received citations for hunting turkey in a closed season, failing to report the turkey kill, exceeding the antlered deer bag limit during bow season and failing to report a deer kill. He also was issued seven written warnings for hunting-related violations.

Buckley posted a photo on Facebook of a turkey he killed, which was shared with officers. They could not find a corresponding state harvest record.

Buckley volunteered that he killed the turkey in November and then realized the season was closed. While interviewing Buckley, officers noticed two antlered deer heads in his garage. Checking state records, they found that he killed a 6-point buck with a bow Nov. 11 in Frederick County. Buckley told officers he killed the 5-point buck with a bow in Allegany County in December but did not check it in.

Buckley is scheduled to appear in Allegany County District Court April 11.

You and your buddies have talked about it for years. Well, no more excuses. Pack up your rig, point it west and hunt elk. Here’s how.

At 0430 last September, I poked my head into my 8-year-old daughter’s room to wake her up. In an hour, we’d be hiking in the dark to find a herd of elk near our home in Montana. As I closed the door to leave, I heard tell herself-just as she always says before a gymnastics tournament, test or swim meet, “You got this.”

On our hunt, we heard a few bulls bugle, and my daughter thought that was pretty cool. I didn’t have the heart to tell her we likely heard other hunters bugling, not actual elk. After all, we were on public land, not terribly far from an open road, and it was Saturday. But do-it-yourself (DIY) elk hunting on public land in the West is never a slam dunk. In fact, only around 20 percent of Montana elk hunters fill their tag in any given year.

While the odds aren’t great, don’t let that dissuade you from heading west to hunt elk; there are plenty of things you can do to tip the scales more to your favor. For that, I turned to Randy Newberg. Once a mild-mannered CPA living in Bozeman, Montana, Newberg has since given up counting beans to become a hunting “celebrity” and public lands advocate. His niche isn’t whacking and stacking giant bulls on some game farm. His style is as far from that as it gets. He’s dedicated his podcasts (Hunt Talk Radio), TV Show (Fresh Tracks), and YouTube channel (Randy Newberg, Hunter) to the DIY, public land hunter. And he’s killing elk every year at the spry age of 56.

Newberg grew up in the Midwest fishing for walleye and hunting cagey whitetails. He’s honed his tips for elk hunters through his own trial and error, and he never pulls any punches when it comes to teaching others about hunting elk. “I am so thankful that I was a whitetail hunter when I moved west because it caused me to fail,” he says. “I view every hunt, whether I kill an elk or not, as a success as long as I learn something.” And that, as you will find, is exactly the attitude you need to succeed at elk hunting.

Where to Start Your Elk Hunt

If you’ve read this far, chances are you’ve considered the idea of hunting elk. Great, now convince some buddies they want to hunt elk, too, but be discerning. “Picking the right people is huge,” Newberg says . “Make sure everyone is compatible. Go on a camping trip first. A hunt isn’t the place to sort out who you want in a foxhole with you.”

Once you’ve got one or two good friends on board, it’s time for a heart-to-heart about what the definition of a “successful” public land elk hunt looks like. “Elk hunting is not typically a one and done thing,” he says. “If that’s your definition, then go to a ranch. If you want to become an elk hunter, then you have to keep at it.” Put another way, manage your expectations. If your one goal is to come home with a big bull to hang on the wall, then a DIY, public land elk hunt isn’t for you. If your goal is to try something new, be physically and mentally challenged and make memories to last a lifetime, then you’re on the right track. For perspective, it took Newberg seven years to kill his first elk-and he lives a stone’s throw from some of the best elk hunting in the county.

Now, decide on the state where you want to hunt. If you want to go right now, or maybe next year, many first-time elk hunters look to a state like Colorado that offers ample over-the-counter (OTC) tags. Plus, Colorado has around 250,000 elk, by far the most of any state. Most of those elk are going to be cows, you know, the ones without antlers. If you’re on a tight budget and this is your first time hunting elk, consider hunting a cow. No, they don’t sport antlers, but they are absolutely delicious and way more abundant than a 300-inch herd bull.

Navigating the hunting regulations for a new state can be harder to understand than your truck’s wiring diagram, but you don’t have to go it alone. There are a number of websites and services out there dedicated to help you find your tag and take your money. For instance, if you choose to hunt Montana, the state offers a Hunt Planner, which may or may not work depending on the moon phase. When it works, the planner comes complete with maps, tags and hunting districts. Don’t be afraid to call your chosen state’s fish and game department, either. After all, your license money helps fund the department.

Do I Need New Gear to Hunt Elk?

Now that you’ve picked a state, convinced a couple of buddies to go and hashed out expectations, it’s time to talk gear. Fair warning: you need to buy less stuff than you think. “Gadgets and gizmos are not going to kill you an elk,” Newberg says. “If you think that’s all there is to it, then just give me the money. Educate yourself and get in the woods. Feed your brain-that’s the best tool you got.”

Hunters can and do get wrapped up in buying gear because it’s an easy way to prepare. Keep it simple. Don’t let gear consume you and your hunt. “Whatever you’ve got for your deer rifle (and if you shoot it well) just bring it,” he says. “Always beware the man who owns only one rifle.” The most popular elk calibers are .270, .30-06 and 7mm Remington Magnum. While ammo can be hard to find right now, you do need to practice and know your effective range. If you consistently shoot baseball-sized groups at 200 yards, you should be ready for the elk woods.

If you are looking to invest in one thing, buy a quality pair of binoculars. You’ll spend a fair amount of time simply looking for elk at dawn and dusk, and good glass really does help ease the strain on your eyes. If you plan on camping, make a list of items you think you’ll need and then see what you and your buddies lack. Buying a wall tent is much more reasonable when the cost is split three ways. Or you can stay at a local hotel where hot showers are always welcome after a long day of hunting.

Before you start the drive, you’ll want to have at least five spots picked out within the unit of the state for which you have a tag. This is critical. “But I’ve never been there. How am I supposed to know what to look for?” you say. I hear you. If you can’t scout with boots on the ground, then the next best thing is to scout from space. Use GoogleEarth or apps like onX and GoHunt to give you a bird’s eye view of the terrain.

Keep in mind that elk need three things: food, water and security. Look for areas away from open roads and easy hunter access. Open, south-facing hillsides or alfalfa fields entice elk to feed at dawn and dusk, while north-facing timber provides refuge and a place to hide. If you really want to get into the nitty-gritty (and you should), Newberg can help. He’s broken elk hunting down into five calendar seasons: early season, pre-rut, peak rut, post rut and late season. To learn more about this strategy, tune into his YouTube channel where he goes into each season in-depth. Also, check out his elk hunting e-guide, which you can download as PDF and read as you drive across the country to elk camp.

Time to Hunt Elk

Once you get to the mountains, you’ll soon realize why success rates are low. “You’re going to be completely intimidated by the landscape, its steepness, the vastness of the terrain and the low animal densities,” he says. Whatever you do, keep a positive attitude and take it easy. You’re supposed to be having fun, right?

Chances are, you’ll be sharing the landscape with other hunters, which is why you picked five spots before leaving home. Find the spot where there are the fewest hunters. Once there, spend the first three days just scouting and poking around. “You have to find elk first-that’s your biggest time commitment. The reason most people don’t kill an elk is because they can’t find an elk,” Newberg says.

You find elk by getting up in the dark, hiking to a high ridge or peak, sitting on your butt and looking through a spotting scope or binoculars at far off hills. Elk move most at dawn and dusk, so you need to be in position and looking at those times of day. And please, pack a headlamp. “Most of my friends who come from the Midwest are scared shitless to leave the truck before daylight,” Newberg says with a laugh. “There are tons of grown men who do not like being in the woods after dark. So, ask yourself what you’re afraid of and learn more about it. If you’re afraid of grizzly bears, then learn where they’re going to be and don’t be there.”

Sip your coffee and glass the hills, focusing on what’s closest to you first and then look to distant ridges. Check the immediate area for sign, too. Are there rubs, scat and beds? No? Then maybe you’re not in the right spot.

Just like whitetails, elk have a keen sense of smell. Let the wind dictate your movement. As a general rule, air (thermals) will descend down the mountain in the morning. By afternoon, those thermals will creep back upslope. If you’re hiking uphill in the morning, you’re off to a good start.

Let’s say you get lucky, make a great shot and have an elk down. Congratulations. Now, veteran elk hunters will tell you, the real work begins. Elk are big, like 500 pounds big. If you’re more than a few hundred yards from the truck, and most times you will be, you need to get that elk into manageable chunks. Don’t even try to drag it. Instead, quarter it. And guess what? Newberg can teach you how to do that, too, without even gutting it. It’s called the gutless method. If you Google “gutless method”, you will find plenty of videos online to walk you through the process. It’s a little daunting at first, but 80-pound quarters are a much more reasonable haul than trying to pack out an entire pony.

Hunting elk on your own isn’t impossible, but it’s not easy, either. “It’s going to be work, but it’s fun work,” Newberg says. Be honest with yourself, do your homework, make a plan and put in the work. Remember, you got this.

Are you gearing up for your next hunting trip? There’s no question that hunting trips provide a unique and exciting opportunity to escape the everyday grind, but they also carry their fair share of pressure. Spending an extended amount of time away from home can be daunting — especially if you have poor planning skills! Before heading out into the wild, make sure to plan ahead and avoid some common mistakes so you can enjoy every second without stressing over things like supplies or accommodations. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything from pre-planning logistics to field experience tactics in The Ultimate Hunting Trip Prep: Mistakes to Avoid for a Stress-Free Experience. Get ready for success!

Do your research.

When it comes to preparing for a hunting trip, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, you’ll want to make sure you do your research ahead of time. This means reading up on the gear you’ll need, so that you’re fully prepared out in the field. For this reason, it would be smart to take a look at this guide to buying hunting boots and other gear, for example, so you know what kind of shoes to wear. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any hunting regulations in the area where you’ll be hunting. Regulations and requirements can vary by region, so it’s worth checking out the relevant information before you set out. Lastly, it’s essential to keep safety front of mind. This means ensuring that you’re aware of any particular risks associated with your type of hunt, and knowing how to minimize them as much as possible. With a bit of careful planning and preparation, you’ll be able to enjoy your hunting trip to the fullest.

Pack a variety of clothing and gear

As any experienced hunter will tell you, it’s crucial to be prepared for whatever the weather may throw your way. Packing a variety of clothing and gear that will keep you warm and dry is absolutely essential if you want to be comfortable and focused while out hunting. From waterproof jackets to insulated boots, there are a variety of products on the market that can help ensure that you stay comfortable and protected, no matter what the conditions are like outside. So if you’re planning an upcoming hunting trip, be sure to invest in some high-quality gear that will keep you nice and toasty along the way!

Pack your weapons correctly

Ensuring that your firearms are stored safely and correctly is not only a legal obligation but also an ethical responsibility. Before taking off on your hunting trip, ensure your weapons are unloaded and stored in a case or container that is secure and protective. While accidentally accessing a loaded weapon during transportation may seem improbable, the repercussions could be life-changing. Failure to pack your weapons correctly can have not only legal consequences but also endanger you and others around you, making it essential to secure and handle them with care.

Don’t forget a first aid kit

When setting out on a hunting trip, there are certain essentials that you always remember to pack – your firearm, ammunition, binoculars, and perhaps your trusty hunting dog. But one item that should never be overlooked is a well-stocked first aid kit. Accidents can happen in the blink of an eye, and when you’re out in the wilderness, medical attention may be miles away. The basic supplies you need to include in your kit are bandages, antiseptic cream, and tweezers. However, it’s also important to consider the specific risks of your chosen hunt. For example, if you’re hunting in an area with a high risk of snake bites, then packing snakebite treatment could be a life-saver. So, before you hit the trail, make sure you’ve got a good-quality first aid kit and have stocked it with all the necessary items to keep you safe and healthy on your hunting adventure.

In conclusion, with the right preparations and considerations, a successful hunting trip is achievable. Taking into account the tips outlined in this post will ensure a stress-free experience and that you won’t forget any important supplies when setting out on your adventure. Especially important is to do your research – finding out about hunting regulations in the area, packing correctly for inclement weather conditions, preparing meals ahead of time, ensuring weapons are securely stored away, and restraining from taking unnecessary risks while hunting – will all contribute to an unforgettable time in nature. Lastly, but importantly too, make sure you double-check the necessary permits and documents needed before your journey starts. Even if you’re an experienced hunter eager to take on new challenges on your next hunt – following even these basics of hunting hunt preparation will give you some peace of mind as you wander off on an unpredictable adventure.

When it comes to hunting, a .22 caliber rifle is definitely a must-own gun. I myself bought a .22 caliber rifle after my friend taught me how to shoot on his. This gun truly is perfect for beginners who want to learn how to shoot a rifle, and for hunting newbies.

But what can you hunt with a .22 caliber rifle? You’d be surprised as to what this gun is capable of. It can let you take down several targets, and help you become a well-experience marksman in no time.

What Can You Hunt With A .22 Caliber Rifle: All You Need To Know

Why A .22 Caliber Rifle Is Perfect For Hunting

A .22 Caliber rifle is definitely the go-to gun for anyone who is new to hunting. If you have no experience whatsoever when it comes to shooting a rifle, then this one should have the first trigger you should pull.

But what exactly makes the .22 caliber rifle the best gun for hunting newbies? Here are a couple of reasons why the .22 caliber rifle has earned its spot as the go-to gun for hunting.

Weight

A simple .22 caliber rifle is very easy to handle because of its light weight. This means that beginners who don’t know how to aim yet will not suffer from restless arms that most hunters feel when carrying a heavy gun while following their target.

Recoil

You know what I hate about guns? A strong recoil that honestly hurts the shoulders. With a .22 caliber rifle, you wouldn’t have to feel nervous before pulling the trigger because there’s no painful recoil to anticipate. A .22 caliber rifle practically has no recoil, making it easy for you to aim and shoot.

Ammo

What’s great about .22 caliber rounds is that they’re very light and really affordable. With a .22 caliber rifle, you would be able to go hunting carrying thousands of rounds with ease.

What’s more is that .22 caliber rounds don’t require much energy to be shot. This means that your gun can take a shot that’s not as loud as other guns.

Shooting Distance

With the right accessories, and with enough experience, you can effectively shoot a target at distances that can reach up to 440 yards.

However, shooting a large animal at such a great distance may not be effective enough to get you the kill, but it will surely injure the animal bad enough to slow It down.

What Animals Can You Hunt With A .22 Caliber Rifle

Sine the .22 caliber rifle isn’t as powerful as larger hunting rifles, it can only be used for hunting game animals. You can easily take down winged game animals such as small birds like quails, larger birds including pheasant, partridge, grouse, woodcock, duck, and goose.

The .22 caliber is also great for hunting small ground game animals such as rabbit, hare, and squirrel. And with enough skills when it comes to aiming, you can easily take down larger ground game animals as well including wild boar, deer, venison, and roebuck.

The Best .22 Caliber Rifle For Beginners

If you want to purchase a .22 caliber rifle for hunting, I recommend going with the 10/22 Ruger. This .22 caliber rifle is fairly simple and easy to use because of its light body that can provide you with a short learning curve.

The 10/22 Ruger is also very affordable, making it a great first gun. And like I have mentioned before, a gun like this has very affordable ammo. This means that you can buy plenty of ammo for target practice.

What’s more is that this gun can be equipped with coffin and drum magazines capable of accommodating 25 to 110 rounds of ammo.

However, if you’re a beginner, I suggest you get yourself a nice 25 round magazine so you wouldn’t have to carry much weight.

Another great thing about the 10/22 Ruger is that you can easily tweak this machine with a set of simple tools. You can easily add accessories and replace its parts all on your own.

There’s also a plethora of aftermarket accessories and parts for the ruger 10/22 including various barrel lengths and styles. This means that you can easily customize this gun to fit your preference.

A Quick Recap

A .22 caliber rifle is a great gun for you if you are new to hunting. It is very light, simple to use, has affordable and lightweight rounds, can easily be put together and taken apart, and can shoot a variety of game animals even at long distances.

Needless to say, with enough practice, you can easily become a great marksman by starting out with a fine .22 caliber rifle.

Thanks to our original guest poster for this article!

“Unveiling the Truth: Can You Safely Keep a PCP Air Rifle Charged? Discover the Essential Guidelines and Precautions to Ensure Longevity and Optimal Performance of Your PCP Air Rifle. Stay Informed and Make Informed Decisions for a Safe and Reliable Shooting Experience.”

can you leave a pcp air rifle charged?

Many shooters are often unsure about whether it is safe to leave a PCP (Pre-Charged Pneumatic) air rifle charged for extended periods. The answer to this question largely depends on the specific model and manufacturer’s recommendations. However, in general, it is not advisable to leave a PCP air rifle charged for long durations.

Leaving a PCP air rifle pressurized can lead to several potential issues. One of the main concerns is the possibility of pressure loss over time. Even when not in use, small leaks can occur due to various factors, such as seal deterioration or valve malfunctions. This can result in reduced performance or complete discharge of the air reservoir, rendering the rifle unusable until recharged.

Additionally, leaving a PCP air rifle charged continuously may put unnecessary strain on its components and reduce overall longevity. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding storage and depressurization procedures. Properly venting the air reservoir after shooting sessions and storing the rifle in a cool, dry place can help maintain optimal performance and prolong its lifespan.

In conclusion, it is not recommended to leave a PCP air rifle charged for an extended period of time due to safety concerns. It is important to follow proper storage procedures and discharge the air rifle when not in use to prevent accidents or damage.

When I first got my hands on some 6.5 PRC ammunition from Hornady, my initial thought was how its performance would compare with other factory cartridges of the same caliber.

A comparison of case capacities is a good starting point for finding out. When filled to the brim, gross water capacity of the 6.5 PRC averaged 67.6 grains. Moving down to smaller capacities, we have 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5-284 cases made by Hornady at 53.4 grains and 64.3 grains respectively. Moving up to a couple with bigger capacities, we have the 6.5 Remington Magnum at 70.2 grains and the .264 Winchester Magnum at 84.1 grains. Capacities for the 26 Nosler and 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum are 98.2 and 96.7 grains respectively.

As you can see, the 6.5 PRC holds just over 3 grains more powder than the 6.5-284 and just under 3 grains less than the 6.5 Remington Magnum.

My next step was to compare velocities of the three cartridges in rifles with 26-inch barrels. Before going there, let’s take a close look at our newest cartridge of its caliber.

The 6.5 PRC (Precision Rifle Cartridge) story begins back in 2012 when George Gardner, owner of GA Precision, who is heavily involved in PRS (Precision Rifle Series) competition, approached Hornady about developing a big brother to the 6.5 Creedmoor on the RCM (Ruger Compact Magnum) case. It would be used mainly for banging steel targets beyond 1,000 yards. But that was when the Obama administration was selling far more ammunition for Hornady than the company could produce, and the time and machinery required for developing a new long-range rifle cartridge were not available.

So Gardner necked down the 7mm Remington Short Action Ultra Magnum case for 0.264-inch bullets. Remington brass eventually became difficult to find, but by then Hornady was caught up enough to begin producing what would eventually add up to thousands of 6.5mm SAUM cases, all sold through GA Precision. They are headstamped “6.5 GAP 4S,” but the cartridge is more commonly known in hunting and competition circles as the 6.5 SAUM. It is simply the 7mm SAUM case necked down.

Considering the production by Hornady of 6.5 GAP 4S cases, the next logical step appeared to be ammunition coming off the line in Grand Island, Nebraska. Instead, the Hornady-developed RCM case was used to produce the 6.5 PRC. A maximum case length of 2.030 inches makes it 0.015 inch longer than the .338 Compact Magnum case and 0.070 inch shorter than the .300 Compact Magnum. All share a 30-degree shoulder angle.

Most 6.5 GAP 4S rifles are custom jobs, and while plenty of custom rifles in 6.5 PRC are likely to be built, the availability of less-expensive factory rifles from Savage, Montana Rifle Co., Sauer, and others likely to follow makes it more affordable than the 6.5 SAUM. Other advantages are the availability of factory ammo and a reliable supply of less-expensive unprimed cases from Hornady.

Two 6.5 PRC factory loads are currently offered. Hornady Match is loaded with the 147-grain ELD Match bullet at an advertised 2,910 fps, and Precision Hunter pushes the 143-grain ELD-X along at 2,960 fps. Load data is no farther away than the Hornady and Hodgdon websites. Most who publish pressure-tested data will likely stay below the SAAMI maximum of 65,000 psi. Hodgdon stopped at 61,500 psi and 2,995 fps for a 140-grain bullet from a 24-inch pressure barrel. The Hornady data sheets I have don’t include chamber pressures, but maximum velocities listed from a 26-inch barrel are 3,150 fps for 140- and 143-grain bullets and 3,050 fps for the 147-grain ELD Match.

The 6.5 SAUM has proven capable of consistently delivering accuracy inside 1/2 MOA from accurate rifles, and to see if the 6.5 PRC is capable of equaling that, I shot it in a precision-built rifle put together by Don Fraley, owner of Advanced Weapons Technology in Russell, Kentucky. His rifles are on blueprinted Remington Model 700 actions, and since early reports described the 6.5 PRC as a short-action cartridge, we initially assumed the test rifle would be on the short version. Digging a bit deeper revealed that the new cartridge is too long for the short Remington Model 700 magazine. With an interior length of 2.840 inches, it restricts cartridge length to a maximum of 2.815 inches. SAAMI maximum for the 6.5 PRC is 2.955 inches, with the two Hornady factory loads measuring 2.950 inches.

A partial solution does exist. The interior length of Wyatt’s Outdoor magazine box for the short Model 700 action is 3.060 inches, and deducting 0.025 inch from that we arrive at a maximum useable cartridge length of 3.035 inches. Its installation requires light machine work on the receiver and modifying the boltstop, both easy tasks for a skilled gunsmith. That magazine will accept Hornady 6.5 PRC ammo, but very little wiggle room remains for chasing the rifling with handloads as chamber throat erosion requires seating high-BC bullets farther out of the case.

Everything considered, I became convinced that the long Model 700 action is the easiest way to squeeze top velocities from the 6.5 PRC while staying within SAAMI maximum chamber pressures. I tried the 6.5 PRC in the magazines of several Model 700 rifles in various calibers, and feeding was flawless in one in .300 Remington Ultra Magnum. The long Model 700 action is only 3 ounces heavier than the short action, so when heading for the hills, I will compensate by leaving a candy bar behind. Using what was originally intended to be a short cartridge in a long-action rifle is hardly new. When loaded with some of the old-school bullets, the original 6.5-284 wildcat works fine in a short action, but seat the new breed of high-BC bullets long and change its name to 6.5-284 Norma and a long action is required.

A Special Test Requires a Special Rifle

The Advanced Weapons Technology rifle I used for accuracy-testing the 6.5 PRC is the Long Bow model. It has a tactical-style bolt handle, an M16-style extractor, and a Lawton/Nosler exterior bolt release from Pacific Tool & Gauge. The HS Precision Pro-Series stock is a combination of fiberglass, Kevlar, and carbon fiber. Steel-reinforced bedding compound applied by Fraley extends from the tang of the receiver to 1.5 inches beyond the recoil lug.

The 26-inch Select Match barrel from Shilen has that company’s ratchet rifling at a 1:8 twist, and the contour is listed by Shilen as Heavy Sendero. It free-floats in the stock. Pertinent chamber dimensions are a 0.2985-inch neck diameter, a 0.2645-inch throat diameter, and a 0.2050-inch throat length. The barrel has an 11-degree crown at the muzzle, and it wears an extremely efficient and surprisingly quiet AWT eight-port brake. The barreled action has a black Cerakote finish. Measured with a Lyman digital scale, the Timney 510 trigger breaks crisply at 35 ounces with a 2-ounce variation. There is no detectable creep or overtravel. The rifle came with a 20-MOA Picatinny base installed, and for accuracy-testing, a Trijicon AccuPower 5-50X 56mm scope in Weaver 34mm tactical rings was used.

The accuracy of different loads fired in a precision-built rifle will vary a bit in accuracy, but the spreads are usually quite close compared to mass-produced factory rifles. Fraley guarantees his rifles to consistently shoot five bullets inside a half-inch at 100 yards, with precision handloads pushing accuracy in the direction of 1/4 MOA.

When good handloading practices and quality equipment and components are combined with a bit of bullet jump and powder charge juggling, it’s fairly easy to produce ammunition capable of half-minute accuracy, but shrinking group size to half that usually requires precision loading. Hornady 6.5 PRC cases were trimmed to the exact same length and their mouths chamfered and deburred. Cases were then capacity sorted and their necks outside-turned just enough to uniform neck wall thickness. Doing so reduced neck wall thickness by only 0.0005 inch, which put diameter of a loaded round at 0.291 inch compared to 0.292 inch for Hornady factory ammo. Primer pockets were uniformed, and flash holes were uniformed and deburred. Prior to being seated, all bullets went through a bullet-sorting stand from Sinclair International. Powder charges were weighed with an RCBS Model 304 scale, and RCBS Gold Medal Match dies were used in a Corbin CSP-1 bullet-swaging press converted for ammunition loading. A 0.289-inch bushing was used in the RCBS neck-sizing die.

In addition to consuming a lot of time, developing a precision load for just a single bullet-powder combination capable of equaling the accuracy of a super-accurate rifle can use up a lot of barrel accuracy life. For that reason, only four bullets were precision-loaded specifically for the test rifle. When accuracy-testing an extremely accurate big-game rifle, I usually shoot three-shot groups, but since the barrel of the Fraley rifle had a rather heavy contour with a muzzle diameter of 0.825 inch, I fired five-shot groups. To illustrate velocities possible with other bullet-powder combinations, I simply worked up to maximum in non-prepped cases.

Most who shoot the 6.5 SAUM use the Federal 215 and CCI 200 Magnum primers, so I was a bit surprised to see both Hornady and Hodgdon use standard-force primers when developing data for the 6.5 PRC. I tried Federal’s GM215M and GM210M primers, and while accuracy was about the same, velocity spread was lower with the former. It was not enough to matter at ethical game-taking distances, but it was enough to matter to those who punch paper or steel at 1,000 yards and beyond.

Comparison Results

How does 6.5 PRC performance compare with its two closest competitors, all in 26-inch barrels? My Ruger No 1S in 6.5 Remington Magnum departed the factory in July 1965, and I purchased it new-in-box from a friend in 1978. I could never get it to shoot accurately enough to make me entirely happy until Randy Brooks introduced his Barnes X-Bullet in 1985.

Soon after adding a Cooper Model 22 in 6.5-284 Norma to my battery, it accounted for my second-best whitetail deer. My handload consisted of 53.5 grains of Reloder 19 behind the Swift 130-grain Scirocco II. The Model 22 is proof that you don’t have to have a custom rifle in order to enjoy superb accuracy.

Three different rifles might have slightly different stories to tell, but when the three cartridges are loaded to maximum with 140-grain bullets and fired in my rifles, the 6.5 PRC is about 100 fps slower than the 6.5 Rem. Mag. and about 100 fps faster than the 6.5-284 Norma. The 6.5 Rem. Mag. has long been one of my favorite cartridges, but since factory ammo and unprimed cases can be difficult to find, I have to recommend the other two cartridges over it. If, like me, you already have a rifle chambered for 6.5 Rem. Mag., by all means keep it active in the field because it is a great cartridge. But if you are shopping for a new rifle, the other two are better choices.

As it now stands, there are more sources for 6.5-284 Norma ammunition than for 6.5 PRC, although actual availability can vary due to fluctuations in production scheduling. A steady supply of ammunition gives the 6.5 PRC an edge among those who shoot factory ammo, but due to the availability of unprimed cases for both, handloaders should be equally happy with either cartridge. Those among us who cannot resist praising the new without condemning the old will point to the rebated rim of the 6.5-284 case, but decades of experience with that cartridge have not revealed a single problem with it. On the other hand, off-the-shelf factory rifles in 6.5 PRC may eventually far outnumber those in 6.5-284 Norma, and if that happens, it will have a big edge on the road to commercial success.