Today I’m going to show you the best Vortex red dot sight.

In fact:

I’ve hand-tested over 10 scopes alone for this review.

The best part?

I’ve sorted the scopes by use. So whether you’re on a budget or need the best Vortex red dot, you’ll find it here.

Let’s dive in!

Red Dots vs Holographic Sights

Just quickly, what’s the difference between red dot sights and holographic sights? And which is better?

Holographic sights, or holographic optics, use a laser to project a reticle onto a glass plate. The dot is then reflected up to your eye. Vortex makes a great holographic sight, the Vortex Razor AMG UH-1.

In red dot sight models, the reticle is projected directly onto the front lens. The lens is coated with a special material that allows it to display a crisp red dot on your target.

Holographic sights may have an advantage over red dot sights in durability and weight, but if you’re looking for something lightweight and easy to use, you may want to consider getting the best red dot sight for your needs instead.

How to Choose a Red Dot Sight

A red dot sight is a type of weapon sight that uses a red dot projected onto a crosshair, creating a sighting method in which the operator looks through the scope and aims at an object. Originally developed for use in military applications, they have become popular among hunters and recreational shooters. Many red dot sights can be mounted on pistols or rifles alike to give users quick access to their weapons while preserving accuracy. There are several different types of red dot sights such as holographic and laser sights.

But what do you look for when buying a red dot sight? The first thing you need to consider is price. If you want a red dot to have a lot of magnification, but also have a good field of view, high zoom optics are recommended. In addition these sights may have other features such as illuminated reticle locations and night vision lasers. High-end optics for red dot sights can cost anywhere from $400 to $1000 or more.

Next to look into is the brightness level of the sight itself. If you don’t plan on using it in dim light environments, then a brighter sight will be fine for your needs. However, if you’re planning on shooting in dim light sometimes, then low intensity sights are preferred by many people including hunters and shooters alike. The third thing to look for is user-friendly features such as a quick-release mount and an adjustable reticle. And lastly, the type of red dot sight you decide to buy should match your needs. For example, if you want a compact and lightweight red dot sight with a small magnification range, then an auto tracking optic (ATO) may be more suitable for you. On the other hand, if your needs are more specific and require a longer range with higher magnification than you may want to go with an illuminated red dot sight that has different types of reticles such as mil dots or crosshairs.

Regardless of your needs it is best to choose a red dot sight that matches your specific needs and goals. You can go out and try different types of red dot sights with the hopes of finding the perfect one for you, but don’t expect to find something perfect. The chances are most people will not be able to find their exact needs in one purchase, and each type of red dot sight will have different capabilities and limitations based on its size and magnification.

The good news is I already did all the research for you and found the best red dot sights made by Vortex. Let’s take a look…

The Best Vortex Red Dot Sights of 2021

If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best Vortex red dots:

1. Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope: Best Vortex Red Dot for AR-15
2. Vortex Crossfire: Best for the Budget
3. Vortex Viper: Best Red Dot for Glock
4. Vortex Razor: Most Premium

1. Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope: Best Vortex Red Dot for AR-15

The Spitfire AR Prism Scope offers all the features of Vortex’s best red dot sight on an AR-15 platform. It may not be the Vortex Strike Eagle, but it’s the best red dot around. If you shoot AR-15’s, this is absolutely the sight you need.

Let’s dive into the features!

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The AR Prism Scope is constructed from glass lenses with anti-reflective coatings, providing a crystal clear sight picture with 100% field of view.

The design of this sight is also great for people with astigmatism. You won’t see anything through the lens that you shouldn’t. When working with AR-15’s, this is key when you’re trying to fire off quick, extremely accurate shots.

Probably one of the cooler features of this sight is the etched DRT (Dual Ring Tactical) MOA reticle. It’s perfect for quick and accurate close-range firing.

The prism design on this red dot allows you to see the reticle with or without illumination, which is handy in case the battery dies. However, the reticle does have twelve different intensity levels so you can choose the perfect illumination for the surrounding conditions.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope allows for a large eye relief, which is great for shooters who wear glasses or protective eyewear.

Additionally, the eye box is wide enough to provide ample viewing space for shooters.

Durability

Like a lot of other Vortex sights and scopes, the Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope is shockproof, waterproof, and fog-proof. If you do a lot of shooting competitions, this red dot might have to be your go-to. It’s compact, resistant to corrosion, mounts squarely and soundly, and can withstand severe weather conditions.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The bold turrets allow the shooter to make adjustments quickly and accurately. The zero-reset feature allows you to re-zero the rifle without having to re-shoot the target at 100 yards after each adjustment. Combine these two features with the fast-focus eyepiece, you can make quick shots without having to fumble around with your sight.

What’s really special about the Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope is the 5.56 BDC turret with settings for AR-15s up to 700 yards! This feature can only be found on the Spitfire.

Parallax & Magnification

The Spitfire AR Prism is parallax-free with a magnification of 1x. These settings are great for ARs.

Mounting Options & Included Accessories

The Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope comes with a collapsible mount, which can be adjusted for height or can’t easily. It allows the shooter to quickly swap between magnified (magnifier) and red dot (1x) optic. It also comes with an integrated 11-slot Picatinny rail for mounting additional accessories like lasers, flashlights, or bipods.

Summary

The Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope is a great alternative to the ACOG or Aimpoint PRO. It offers an easy-to-use, rugged, and lightweight red dot optic that is widely compatible with most AR platforms.

Furthermore, it provides a reticle that is open enough to accurately hold at all times, which means you won’t have to constantly re-zero your rifle. The Vortex Spitfire AR Prism Scope also comes with a high-quality lower 1/3 co-witness mount type.

If the Spitfire is a little too outside of your price range, the SPARC AR and SPARC II are less expensive, comparable alternatives by Vortex. Or, perhaps you want to check out another quality brand, like Sig Sauer Romeo 5.

All in all, the Spitfire AR Prism Scope has earned its place as one of Vortex’s best red dot sights.

2. Vortex Crossfire Red Dot Sight: Best for the Budget

I can’t stress enough how good of a value the Vortex Crossfire red dot is. When you compare the cost to the features you’re getting, it really is an unbeatable deal.

I’ve tested countless red dots in my day, and this one definitely gives the most bang for its buck.

It really is perfect for someone who simply needs an affordable option without giving up much in return.

Enough chatter, let’s see what makes the Crossfire so great!

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The glass is crystal clear. In comparison to other reflex sights, the glass is much better.

It’s made from an anti-reflective material that will not wear off over time or damage the sight’s reticle clarity in any way.

The reticle is crisp and precise. It’s also an illuminated reticle (laser). The size of the dot is 2 MOA. It doesn’t have any other types of reticles, such as mil dots or hash marks, etc.

The Crossfire’s light source comes from a high-intensity LED bulb. This bulb is very bright and will not be affected by the wind like some other red dot sights with incandescent bulbs. This means you can shoot more accurately out to greater distances than before.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The Crossfire has unlimited eye relief, meaning you can adjust quickly and efficiently to your target.

Durability

The Vortex Crossfire Red Dot Sight has been designed for a lifetime of use, with a steel housing and a lens cover that is nearly impossible to scratch.

Its quartz-type battery lasts an entire year before it needs changing, and can be easily replaced without tools. It’s made of aluminum and has a very hard-anodized finish that increases its durability and strength.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The max windage and elevation on the Crossfire is 100 MOA.

The knobs are pretty basic and can be a little tough to adjust, but they are completely reliable. This red dot also holds zero extremely well.

Parallax & Magnification

The Vortex Crossfire is parallax-free, and it has 1x magnification. This works great for short and long-distance shooting with your rifle or shotgun, and it allows you to quickly focus on the target.

Mounting Options & Included Accessories

The Crossfire comes with a lower 1/3 co-witness mount, low height mount, and high height mount.

You can mount it on almost any weapon or arrangement of weapons, and still get the desired result.

Summary

The Crossfire is a well-rounded, rugged, and reliable red dot sight that can be used in almost any scenario.

The glass is crystal clear, the reticle is crisp and precise, the elevation and windage are well-designed for accuracy.

It has unlimited eye relief, and the battery life lasts an entire year before it needs changing. Best of all, every Vortex product comes with an unconditional, unlimited lifetime warranty, so you can breathe easy knowing they’ll take care of you no matter what.

Overall, this red dot sight is definitely worth its price. If you’re not on a budget and want something with a tad more umph to it, check out the Crossfire’s cousins, the Vortex SPARC and the Vortex Strikefire.

3. Vortex Viper Red Dot: Best Red Dot for Glock

For those of you specifically shooting Glocks, the Viper is the Vortex optic you want.

Out of the sights I’ve tested for my own Glocks, this open has worked the best by far. It’s lightweight, durable, and very user-friendly.

Check out the specs here:

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The Vortex Viper is a 1x red dot sight. It has a fully multi-coated optical lens surface, which makes the glass crystal clear for your target.

The reticle also has unlimited eye relief and it’s an open design (no hash marks).

The dot size is 6 MOA. The illumination level can be adjusted in brightness. The reticle can be set to low or high, depending on your preference. The illumination also indicates when the battery runs low, so you don’t accidentally leave it on when you exit your vehicle in the dark. Plus, the bright red dot makes it easy to see in any lighting or weather condition.

The Viper works in both single and dual modes without needing excessive programming for Glock or other pistol calibers.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The Viper has unlimited eye relief, which makes it easy to transition from target to target accurately.

Durability

The Viper is made from aluminum, which is extremely lightweight and strong at the same time. I’ve taken my Vipers on multiple hunting trips without any issues.

The ArmorTek finish has held up great, and the lens covers are nearly impossible to scratch or damage.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

The elevation and windage settings can be easily adjusted.

The knobs are also very durable and will not be affected by the shock or recoil of your weapon.

Parallax & Magnification

The Viper has 1x magnification, which is clear enough for you to quickly focus on your target even in low light conditions. The magnification isn’t too high either, which is beneficial for both target accuracy and battery life. It also has a parallax-free reticle.

Mounting Options & Included Accessories

The Vortex Viper comes with a Weaver or Picatinny mount and locking screws that can be used with most small compact handguns, rifles, shotguns, and even bullpups.

It also comes with an AK-style rear sight that can be mounted on almost any weapon or arrangement of weapons as well.

Summary

The Vortex Viper is a great choice for your Glock.

It’s constructed very well, easy to use, and will last you a long time without any issues. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a simple, dependable red dot sight.

4. Vortex Razor Red Dot: Most Premium

This sight, the Vortex Razor Red Dot, is cream of the crop.

If you want the best of the best, and you’re willing to pay the price tag for it, the Razor is what you need. Vortex took several of the primo features they’ve mastered and carefully crafted them into this design.

It really is a top-notch product. Let’s find out why.

Glass Clarity & Reticle

The glass is astounding. You get HD clarity without any distortion or loss of focus, so you can always see your target clearly.

The lens area is large and comfortable to look through, with unlimited eye relief for fast and easy target acquisition. It also works great in any lighting condition, including cloudy days or bright sunlight, making it easy to spot your target even when other sights may not be working well.

If you don’t have 20/20 vision, this red dot will make you feel like you do. With this sight, the dot is, well, a dot. There’s no light spreading, no glares, no flares. The Razor has nine illumination settings for different light conditions, and no matter when you’re shooting or where you’re looking, your light will always be right on target.

Eye Relief & Eye Box

The Razor has unlimited eye relief, much like the other sights we’ve looked at here, but what’s great about this red dot is the eye box is wide and has a super crisp, defined outline.

This feature, combined with the ultra-clear reticle, makes quick target acquisition a breeze.

Durability

Vortex really stacked the Razor with durability features. There are a lot, so let’s just list them out:

• XR Fully Multi-Coated lenses
• Lightweight (only 1.3oz)
• Thick aluminum coating around the window
• Single-piece chassis
• Waterproof
• Shockproof
• Matte Anodized Finish
• ArmorTek coating

These are most, if not all, of Vortex’s primo durability features all rolled into one package. And for that reason, this sight packs a big punch and can withstand an incredible amount of wear and tear.

Elevation & Windage Knobs

Just like the Razor is made from carbon fiber, so is its elevation and windage adjustment knobs.

The hard material provides a firm, precise grip. Plus, they have a cool flip-out detent so you can quickly lock them in place without any fumbling or messing with them.

Parallax & Magnification

The Razor is also incredible with parallax and magnification. Much like the other sights we’ve looked at here, it is parallax-free and has 1x magnification, which is clear enough for fast target acquisition as well as accuracy with tight groupings at longer distances.

Mounting Options & Included Accessories

The Razor’s mount is Picatinny compatible, so it can mount on multiple platforms with ease. It also has locking screws. The included battery will provide plenty of power for the sight, and if your battery runs low, the red dot will turn off to save you from ever coming up empty when it matters most.

Summary

If you want the best of the best in red dots, the Vortex Razor is what you need. It’s made from high-quality materials and performs at a high level every time without fail. It’s also got all of Vortex’s top-notch durability features that will ensure you get many years out of this investment without needing to buy another sight again.

Now It’s Your Turn

I hope you enjoyed my Best Vortex Red Dot Sights guide.

Now I want to turn it over to you:

Which Vortex red dot sight will you pick for your firearm? Or perhaps you already have one and would like to share your thoughts.

Either way, let me know by leaving a quick comment down below.

FAQ’s

Skinning your first raccoon can be a daunting task but it should not much different than skinning a coyote. Remember that a raccoon is more delicate than a coyote and you should take your time especially on the first one to make sure you get a good pelt when you are done.

The method we are going to discuss in this article is how to tube skin a raccoon. Tube skinning is one of the most common ways and it can be used when selling your fur to a fur buyer, tanning, wall hanging, or slightly modified for taxidermy purposes.

Tube skinning works for many types of animals in North America. This includes the fox, coyote, bobcat, raccoon, and anything in between. If you are looking to trap raccoon then checkout our raccoon trapping guide. It explains what traps, bait, and sets to use when trapping raccoon.

Is It Hard To Skin A Raccoon?

Skinning a raccoon can be a little hard at first. If you are skinning a raccoon for the first time it may take an hour to skin it. Take your time though you should not be in a hurry when you are first starting out and raccoon pelt will turn out good.

When I skinned my first critter I was trying really hard to do a good job and didn’t have much practice skinning. There is a learning curve to it but it is something you can learn as you watch someone skinning a raccoon and then try it a few times.

I have added several example videos at the bottom of this article so you can see when different methods of skinning a raccoon. Watch when the person skinning the raccoon is pulling and when they are cutting.

Skinning a coyote and a raccoon are very similar. Checkout our article on how to skin a coyote for more tips on skinning.

How Long Can You Wait To Skin A Raccoon?

Usually, you are hunting and trapping raccoon in the cold months. October to February is when most raccoon have the best fur.

In cold weather, raccoon will not spoil for two to three days and can be skinned. A raccoon in warm weather needs to be skinned within a few hours. Raccoon fur left on the carcass can start to spoil or get green belly and the fur will start to turn a greenish color.

Green belly is not initially bad if it is light green but as it progresses and the bacteria growing on the raccoon skin can cause the fur to slip or fall off the hide.

Green belly can be cleaned off with hydrogen peroxide and may not initially ruin a skin.

Tools For Skinning A Raccoon

• Raccoon Gambrel
• Skinning Knife
• Tail stripper
• Tail zipper or splitter

How Do You Professionally Skin A Raccoon?

Most people professionally skinning raccoon are doing it to sell the hide and make money. The tube method is the most common method when selling raccoon pelts.

Steps To Skinning A Raccoon

• Cutting Direction: When skinning a raccoon you may think the cutting direction is down so you can get the skin off but that will cause you to nick the fur and put holes in it. Your cutting direction should be perpendicular to the carcass and should cut the white membrane that appears between the carcass and the hide when pulling down on the fur.
• Nicking the hide is not a huge deal and can be fixed. Even professionals do it. It can be sewn together later in the fur preparation process but it is best to avoid it. If you have nicked the fur be careful when you pull the fur down off the raccoon that you are not making the hole bigger and stretching it out.
• Hang the raccoon up upside down by the back feet with a gambrel or rope around the legs.
• Split the fur along the back of the legs where you see a color change in the fur. Start at about the back of the knee and cut in deep. and go around the top of the anus.
• Work the sin off around the legs by spreading the hair away from where you just cut and skinning the hide around the leg.
• Split the fur at the knee of the raccoon and leave the rest of the fur on the foot. When you have enough fur worked down and pull the fur down to about the level of the tail.

How To Skin a Raccoon Tail

• Skin down around the tail creating a gap between the fur on the back and the carcass. Work and skin the fur down the tail an inch or two.
• Use a tail stripper around the meat of the tail and pull down on the fur and tail stripper while you also push up on the raccoon with the other hand right where the tail connects to the rest of the carcass.
• Use a tail zipper or knife to split the tail all the way to the bottom so the tail can dry out.
• You should now be able to grab a large chunk of fur and pull down all the way to the shoulders and maybe a little farther.
• Now you should be able to stick a bar into the flesh between the neck and shoulder on both sides and pull down until the fur on the front leg goes over the elbow joint. The fur can then be cut around the leg and pulled through the leg hole.

How To skin a Raccoon Face, Ears, Lips and Eyes

• You can now give another good tug down now that the front legs are out. The head should be the only thing left in. The fur should have stopped at the ears.
• Cut straight into the head and you should be able to cut the ear cartilage at the base of the ear on both sides. You can now stick your finger in the ear and not too hard pull down on the hide and continue skinning.
• You should start getting into the lips on the sides of the head. They should start to split from the carcass at the corners of the mouth. You can stick your finger in there and pull fairly hard and keep skinning down the rest of the head remembering to cut perpendicular to the carcass.
• Next, the eyes should be cut fairly deep keeping the eyelashes intact. Again you will cut straight keeping the cuts a little deeper around the eyes.

How To skin a Raccoon Nose and Lower Jaw

• Once both eyes are cut skin the nose all the way down the front of the head until you are about a half-inch from the end of the nose. Then cut straight towards the bottom jaw and cut the nose off. The top of the fur should now be free.
• Next, skin the bottom jaw down about two inches from the end the cut it off leaving the bottom few inches of fur on the carcass. You won’t need that piece. You should now be done.

How To Skin Raccoon Paws or Feet

In the tube method of skinning a raccoon you should not need to skin the feet. As stated above you can cut the fur at the elbows and you will be done.

If you are skinning a raccoon for taxidermy then you will need to skin out the feet or paws. You also do not want to cut and leave any of the fur on the carcass.

When skinning out the feet first you will want to split the back of the leg instead of skinning down and cutting it off. Continue skinning down the leg until you ar a few inches from the top of the foot.

You can now split the back of the leg until you come to the big pad at the bottom of the foot. You will then start to skin down the foot until you reach the tird joint on each toe.

You will need to work down and skin each toe individually as you work the hide down. Split the third joint at each toe as you reach it. The middle toes are longer and will be farther to skin than the side toes so finish out the site toes first.

Learning More

I have added a few videos here to help you get a few perspectives on and tips on how to skin a raccoon. Watch these videos and you will see that each person has their own little tricks.

How to Skin a Raccoon Fast

Raccoon Trapping Equipment

• MB 450 Traps
• Best Coyote Traps
• Pack Basket
• Trapping Bag
• Buckets
• Trapping Hammer
• Trapping Sheds
• Trapping Cabins
• More Trapping Equipment

Ravin introduced the Ravin R500 as their 2021 flagship model during the 2021 ATA Virtual Show Lancaster Archery hosted back in January. Unfortunately, it was pretty hard to get our hands on a Ravin R500 crossbow, so we couldn’t write a review any sooner than today.

Ravin introduced their new proprietary cam system; the HexCoil cam system. During the ATA virtual show, Ravin claimed it breaks the 500 feet per second barrier. Today we’ll be taking this crossbow out to the range and giving it a full review! Hopefully, we can see our first ever 500+ fps rating on our chronograph!

Ravin R500 Crossbow Specs

First Impressions

Wow! Does this …thing still qualify as a crossbow? Ravin did an amazing job at designing the R500! It’s extremely narrow because of their brand new HexCoil cam system and this new tech was also key in making this a 500 feet per second crossbow.

The crossbow can be cocked entirely electronically by the push of a button, but it can also still be cocked manually with a detachable draw handle.

Ravin introduced this crossbow with 2 different scopes. The cheapest option comes with a 100-yard illuminated scope that’s speed rated at 550 feet per second. The more expensive option comes with an “Adjustable Turret Scope”. You might be thinking what the heck may that be, but we’ll explain it all in the #OPTICS section.

The Ravin R500 only comes in the color option “Slate Gray”, but it looks incredible!

Ravin ships the R500 and the R500 Sniper fully assembled and pre-tuned.

Design and Durability

With a length of only 28 inches, the R500 is slightly longer than Ravin’s most compact crossbow the R26. Because of Ravin’s new HexCoil Cam System that can rotate 360 degrees, the width of this crossbow is a lot narrower and comes in cocked at 3.6 inches and uncocked this crossbow has a width of just 7.6 inches.

Weighing around 10 pounds, the Ravin R500 isn’t the most lightweight of crossbows. High-performance crossbows require stronger materials and this often results in a heavier weight. Actually, for what you’re getting, this crossbow isn’t even that heavy and it has a comfortable hold.

We do think that the Ravin R500 crossbow feels a bit front-heavy. After an hour or so in our range test, we already got used to it. When taking this crossbow out to the range, we recommend using a tripod.

Optics

As we mentioned earlier, Ravin offers the Ravin R500 with 2 different scopes. The “basic” R500 comes with an illuminated 100-yard scope that’s speed rated for crossbows up to 550 feet per second. This scope has a range of 30 to 100 yards and features red or green illumination. Fully multi-coated lenses, waterproof, fog-resistant, shockproof, and recoil-proof is what makes this scope an excellent option for this crossbow.

As for the more expensive option, the R500 Sniper package, Ravin installed an adjustable “Turret Scope.” This is currently the best scope Ravin has to offer. It might not be as advanced as the Garmin XERO X1i that TenPoint installed on a couple of their crossbows, but it’s the best non-electronic scope you can currently get. You can adjust the yardage via the top elevation turret and it includes all the premium features you could ask for.

Cocking

With the Ravin R500 you’ll be able to cock the crossbow with the push of a button:

Ravin equipped the R500 with their new “VersaDrive Cocking System” that utilizes a new dual screw-driven system. The VersaDrive cocking mechanism is driven by an electric cocking motor that includes a removable battery and a charger. “The internal clutch within the VersaDrive System eliminates over-cocking and allows the cocking and decocking process to be stopped or resumed at any time.”

When we first emailed Ravin about the battery pack, they replied that we should be able to get about 50 cocking/decocking cycles from 1 full charge. Depending on temperature and weather conditions, a battery may perform worse and in a new promotional video, Pete Scobell mentions a battery life of 30 to 50 cycles.

If the battery is dead, or if you’d rather cock it manually, you can simply attach the removable draw handle. The manual cocking effort is just 17 pounds with the R500 draw handle.

Performance

Now that we’ve covered the features of the new Ravin R500, we can take it out for a test and rip some arrows down the range!

With a Powerstroke of 15 inches and kinetic energy of 222 FT-LBS, Ravin claims this is the first crossbow that breaks the 500 FPS mark. As we’re confident that Ravin properly pre-tuned the crossbow, we’ll be placing a target at 100 yards and shooting a couple of test groups first.

Ravin includes 6 Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Points with all R500 packages. There are no broadheads included and currently, it’s extremely difficult to find broadheads that are speed rate for up to/over 500 fps. We’ve found 1 set of broadheads that mentioned handling speeds of up to 500 fps and those are the Thorn RIFT 2.2” expandable broadheads. We’ve ordered a couple of sets and are testing these as well!

After the first couple of shots and a couple of small adjustments, we got an extremely tight grouping. The Ravin R500 with adjustable turret scope is insanely accurate. It’s the most powerful crossbow we’ve ever fired! The arrows were buried deep inside the target, even with the Iron Man 24″ Xtreme 500 target.

We did get some issues with the nocks of the arrows. We started the day with six arrows and ended the day with two undamaged arrows. We’ve contacted Ravin and we’re waiting for new nocks to arrive. We’ll update this section once we’ve received and tested the new nocks.

When we took the R500 out to the range it was a pretty cold day and after about 36 shots our battery drained and we had to manually crank-cock the crossbow for the rest of the day. If you’re planning on going to the range on a cold day, we advise bringing an extra battery pack.

Do not shoot arrows with broadheads when shooting at targets. Your targets will wear out very quickly and it’s not worth it. Use the field points that Ravin includes with the package instead and use your broadheads for a hunt!

Recommended Accessories

Because of the insane amount of power the Ravin R500 generates, you probably need some more durable accessories. We had a hard time finding the more durable crossbow accessories, but we’ve compiled a list of accessories we recommend for this crossbow.

Arrows & Broadheads

Ravin includes 6 Ravin .003 Arrows & Field Points with the R500 packages. It’s best if you just use the Ravin arrows. If you want to take this crossbow out for a hunt, you’ll probably want some broadheads. There aren’t many broadheads that are speed-rated at 500 fps, but we’ve found a couple. We’ve tested the Thorn RIFT 2.2” expandable broadheads and they hold very well. Another set of broadheads that work very well is the Ravin Titanium broadhead.

Special 500+ FPS Targets

We tested the R500 with the Big Shot Iron Man Extreme 500 Target. This high-quality and durable crossbow target is rated for crossbows up to 500 feet per second and stops the arrows from the R500 quite well.

Another target we can recommend is the SpyderWeb ST-24XL High-Density No Speed Limit. This crossbow target does not have a speed limit. We reviewed the smaller one, the ST-18XL, this target also stops the arrows surprisingly well.

Storage and Transportation

As always, we only recommend using the official case for the crossbow unless the manufacturer doesn’t offer a case for the crossbow. Using the official case guarantees a snug fit and a properly secured and protected crossbow.

Ravin suggested we use the Ravin Soft Case R26/29/29X or the Ravin Hard Case R10/R20 for the R500 crossbow. This seemed a bit odd to us, but these crossbows almost have the same dimensions. We can confirm that the Ravin R500 fits in both cases.

Final Verdict

FAQ About the Ravin R500 Crossbow

Polar bears and grizzly bears are two of the most iconic bear species, each displaying unique characteristics and behaviors. When discussing their size, one question often arises: which bear is larger? In this article, we will explore the differences in size between polar bears and grizzly bears, touching on key factors that contribute to these variations.

Polar bears, native to the Arctic region, are considered the largest land carnivores. Males typically weigh between 770 and 1,500 pounds and have a massive build. On the other hand, grizzly bears, found in North America, display a more varied size range. Mainland grizzlies tend to be smaller, with their weight reaching up to 860 pounds in some cases.

These size differences can be attributed to several factors such as habitat, diet, and genetics. By comparing these majestic animals, we will gain a deeper understanding of their incredible adaptations and how they have evolved to thrive in their respective environments.

Comparison of Physical Characteristics

Polar bears and grizzly bears exhibit distinct differences in size and physical characteristics. As the largest bear species, polar bears generally are bigger than grizzlies, with adult males reaching lengths of up to 10 feet. Grizzly bears, on the other hand, are smaller, typically growing up to 8 feet long.

Size and Weight:

• Polar Bears: Adult male polar bears can weigh up to 1,700 pounds, with females weighing around 50% less.
• Grizzly Bears: Capable of reaching 800 pounds, male grizzlies usually weigh less than their polar counterparts, while females have a similar weight difference as polar bears.

When standing on their hind legs, the heights of these bears differ as well:

• Polar Bears: Males measure 5.9 to 9.8 feet tall and can reach more than 11 feet (3.3 meters) when standing on their hind legs, while females range from 5.9 to 7.8 feet.
• Grizzly Bears: Around 3.5-4.5 feet tall when walking on all four paws and can reach more than 8 feet (2.4 meters) when standing on their hind legs.

In terms of fur color, polar bears have a thick white coat, aiding in camouflage and insulation. Grizzly bears, on the other hand, display different shades of brown fur, often with lighter or darker tips, giving them a “grizzled” appearance.

Enhancing their hunting and swimming abilities, polar bears have larger and more paddle-like paws compared to grizzlies. Moreover, polar bears boast longer necks and narrower heads, adapted for catching seals in the water. Conversely, grizzly bears have a wider and more robust head, along with a noticeable shoulder hump, designed for digging and catching prey on land.

Polar Bear Size and Weight

Overall Size

Polar bears are among the largest members of the bear family. They typically stand around 5 feet at the shoulders, making them taller than their grizzly bear counterparts, which stand a little over 3 feet at the shoulders. The largest recorded polar bear measured 12 feet tall and weighed around 2,209 lbs (1,002 kg).

Weight Distribution

Male polar bears tend to weigh between 770 and 1,500 pounds, while female polar bears usually weigh between 330 and 650 pounds. It is important to note that polar bears’ weight can fluctuate depending on factors such as age, food availability, and their specific habitats.

Grizzly bears, on the other hand, are lighter and have a more varied weight range depending on their subspecies. The largest subspecies of brown bear, the Kodiak bear, has an average weight of 660 to 1,320 pounds for males and 330 to 715 pounds for females.

Grizzly Bear Size and Weight

Overall Size

Grizzly bears have a height of approximately 3.5-4.5 feet at the shoulder, with a total length of around 6.5 feet for both males and females. Although they may not be as tall as their polar bear counterparts, grizzlies are still considered as one of the largest terrestrial predators.

Weight Distribution

The weight of grizzly bears can vary greatly, reaching up to 860 pounds. It is important to note that male grizzly bears typically outweigh females by a significant margin. This sexual dimorphism is evident in their size, with males being around 20% larger than females.

Comparative Analysis

Polar bears and grizzly bears are both impressive animals with unique characteristics. In terms of size, polar bears tend to be larger than grizzly bears on average.

An adult male polar bear can grow up to 10 feet tall (3 meters) when standing on its hind legs, and typically weighs between 900 to 1,600 pounds (400-725 kilograms). Grizzly bears, on the other hand, can reach heights of 8 feet and weigh up to 860 pounds.

In terms of their habitats, polar bears primarily live in the Arctic regions where they can blend into the snow with their white fur. On the contrary, grizzly bears are typically found in North America, particularly in the western parts of the United States, Canada, and parts of Alaska. Their habitats differ significantly, which attributes to some of the differences in their sizes.

Given their size and weight, polar bears have a stronger advantage when competing for resources and hunting prey. However, grizzly bears are also considered powerful hunters, making them formidable competitors in their respective environments.

It’s important to note that the sizes of individual bears can vary, and both species have plenty of individual variance. Factors such as age, sex, and access to food resources can impact a bear’s size throughout its life.

Implications of Size Difference

Hunting Tactics

Polar bears and grizzly bears have different hunting tactics due to their size differences. Polar bears, being larger, rely mainly on their immense strength to catch seals and other marine mammals. They are excellent swimmers and can travel enormous distances in search of food. Grizzly bears, on the other hand, are more opportunistic and adaptable hunters. Their smaller size allows them to be more agile and chase various prey, including smaller animals, fish, and even scavenging on carcasses.

Survival Rate

The size difference between these bear species has a direct impact on their survival rates. Polar bears, with their larger size and massive body weight, can store more fat reserves, enabling them to survive harsh Arctic winters and periods of food scarcity. Grizzlies, being slightly smaller, have lower fat storage capacity, which can affect their survival in difficult conditions. However, their adaptability and diverse diet may compensate for this disadvantage.

Habitat Influence

The distinct size of polar bears and grizzly bears is influenced by their respective habitats. Polar bears have evolved to become the largest bear species, with adaptations especially suited for the extreme Arctic environment. Their large size combined with their thick coat of fur allows them to retain heat more efficiently, crucial for survival in the frigid Arctic temperatures. Grizzlies, predominantly living in North American forests and mountain ranges, have evolved to be somewhat smaller, enabling them to navigate their terrain for food and shelter more efficiently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a polar bear larger than a grizzly bear?

Yes, polar bears are generally larger than grizzly bears. Polar bears usually measure between 2.4 and 3 meters in length and can weigh up to 1,700 pounds, while grizzly bears measure around 2 meters in length and weigh about 860 pounds on average.

Would a grizzly bear beat a polar bear?

It is difficult to predict the exact outcome of a hypothetical battle between a polar bear and a grizzly bear. However, polar bears are larger and have a stronger bite force of around 1200 psi compared to grizzly bears, which have a bite force of about 975 psi. These factors give polar bears an advantage, but the outcome would depend on the individual circumstances.

How do Kodiak bear sizes relate to polar and grizzly bears?

Kodiak bears, a subspecies of brown bears, are similar in size to polar bears. Some Kodiak bears can reach up to 1,500 pounds in weight, which is close to the size of the largest polar bears. However, grizzly bears, which can also be considered a subspecies of brown bears, tend to be smaller than both polar bears and Kodiak bears.

What is the largest bear ever recorded and what species was it?

The largest polar bear ever recorded was in 1960 and measured 3.65 meters (12 feet) tall, weighing around 2,209 pounds (1,002 kg). This polar bear holds the record for the largest bear ever documented.

Which is considered more dangerous: polar or grizzly bears?

Both polar bears and grizzly bears can pose a threat to humans. However, polar bears are more likely to be considered more dangerous due to their greater size, increased aggression, and capacity to travel large distances in search of food. It is essential to exercise caution and maintain a safe distance from both species in their natural habitats.

Conclusion

Polar bears and grizzly bears are both remarkable and powerful animals, but they differ significantly in size. Polar bears are generally larger than grizzly bears, making them a force to be reckoned with in the wild. This size difference plays a crucial role in their hunting abilities and overall strength, with polar bears being more capable of taking down larger prey and fending off other predators.

Size differences between polar bears and grizzly bears can be attributed to various factors such as their habitat, diet, and genetics. Polar bears, primarily living in the harsh Arctic environment, rely on a diet of seals and other marine mammals that provide a high-fat intake for survival. Grizzly bears, on the other hand, consume a more diverse diet, including vegetation, berries, and smaller animals, contributing to their varying sizes depending on location and food availability.

In conclusion, the larger size of polar bears compared to grizzly bears has adapted them to their Arctic habitat, contributing to their status as one of the world’s most powerful land predators. Both species, however, play vital roles within their ecosystems, and their unique differences make each bear species fascinating in its own right.

“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.

Jeremiah Wood, a biologist for the State of Maine, works through various aspects of fur trapping in this second part of his guest series. (Read part one, Five Reasons to Reconsider Trapping, here.)

For the uninitiated, trapping can seem disconcertingly complex. Trappers target a wide variety of fur-bearing animals all across the landscape, using very specialized tools and equipment on the trapline. Just look into the bed of a trapper’s pickup truck and try figuring out which item does what and where it’s used. The jumble of gear is enough to make your head spin. But once you figure it out, traps and their use are really not that complicated.

Traps can be broken down into three basic types: footholds, body-grips and hunting snares. Each is distinct from the others and has its own unique purpose on the trapline.

Foothold Traps

Foothold traps have been around almost since trapping began. Though some are complex, all footholds operate on a simple premise: the target animal steps on a pan in the trap’s center, tripping a trigger and causing spring-loaded jaws to close and grip the animal’s foot. Foothold traps are the most traditional, popular and effective trap used today. Every fur-bearing species can be caught with foothold traps and they come in a wide variety of styles, shapes and sizes.

The three main types of foothold traps are categorized by the springs that strengthen them. Long spring traps are the traditional footholds constructed with long, flat steel springs that power the jaws closed. Jump traps are powered by a single, short, flat steel spring situated underneath the jaws. Coil spring traps are a modern version of the jump trap, instead using coiled music wire springs to lift levers that power the jaws shut.

Foothold traps have a wide variety of applications on the trapline, from catching marten in the wilds of Arctic Alaska to beaver trapping in the swamps of Louisiana and most places in between. One significant benefit of foothold traps is that, when used properly, they allow for the unharmed release of any non-target animals. Foothold traps are the most common tool used to trap predators like foxes and coyotes, and are commonly used in wildlife management applications. In fact, footholds have been critical to the success of numerous furbearer studies and relocation efforts by state and federal wildlife biologists throughout the country.

Body-grip Traps

The body-grip trap, often referred to as the ‘Conibear,’ was revolutionized by trapper and inventor Frank Conibear in the 1950’s. It was offered as an alternative to the foothold trap in situations where a quick, humane kill of the captured animal was desired. The basic design of the trap includes two square jaws made of round steel in a box-shaped design, powered by one or two springs of the same material. When the springs are compressed, the jaws form an opening for an animal to enter, tripping a trigger in the opening when it travels through. The jaws then close shut, proving an almost instant kill.

Because of their lethal design body-grip traps aren’t useful in all situations, especially near civilization, where there’s potential to catch the neighbor’s dog or cat. They are most commonly used in water trapping, particularly for beaver, mink and muskrats, in wilderness trapping far from the beaten path and in other situations when precautions are taken to avoid non-targets. The body-grip trap was truly an innovation that filled a need in the trapping world and has greatly enhanced trappers’ ability to address animal welfare issues and capture some furbearers far more effectively.

Snares

While it appears the most simple, the snare may just be the most complex tool in the trapping industry. Type of cable and wire, diameter, orientation, breaking strength, lock types, stops, swivels, breakaways and a number of other components make snares incredibly customizable. If you know what you’re doing, you can create just the right snare for most any trapping situation.

Snares can also be fairly controversial, due to their past reputation for catching non-target animals. But advancements in snare technology have made much of that controversy a thing of the past, and many states are expanding snaring opportunities for trappers who know how to use them right. For instance, snares once would catch the occasional deer. Using a stop that limits loop size closure eliminates deer capture. When a large animal like a mountain lion or elk is captured, a breakaway allows them to power out of the snare, breaking it open and freeing them from capture.

Traditional snares used to kill some non-target animals. Using a relaxing lock instead of a kill-type lock allows a snare to hold an animal gently, effectively rendering the snare something we now call a “cable restraint.” In other situations where a quick kill is desired, springs and poles can be used to make that happen incredibly effectively. What was once a simple wire loop has now transformed into one of the most useful and adaptable tools at a trapper’s disposal.

Between footholds, body-grips and snares, a trapper’s arsenal can seem pretty complex—and perhaps it needs to be. Like everything else, trapping has changed with the times. Advances in technology have continued to make traps more efficient and effective, helping trappers continue to responsibly harvest wild fur. And if you’re looking to get into trapping, these advancements have made for a great set of tools to help start the journey.

Jeremiah is a biologist with the State of Maine and runs Trapping Today, a website dedicated to providing information and entertainment to the modern trapper. Find more from him at www.trappingtoday.com.

header image: Day Six Outdoors

In the early days of my spring turkey hunting career, the early morning gear assembly centered around making sure I had my shotgun, a box of shotshells and the right call. Or more accurately—since I’m a confirmed gear junkie—the right calls, since my vest was likely to contain several on any given morning. Yeah, I’m a marketer’s dream, which might explain why my vest was so heavy and my back ached so much after a day spent running and gunning in the North Texas woods.

But after a close encounter with a big old Texas rattlesnake one April morning, wearing the proper boots became a matter of pressing concern. As the years have gone by and I’ve encountered cold conditions, wet days and just wanting a little more comfort, my garage shelves now contain several turkey-hunting boot options. If you’re looking for the perfect boot for spring turkeys this year, here are several options to consider:

Danner Sharptail Snake Boot

Upland bird hunters might recognize the Danner Sharptail lineup as a great option for hiking across the New England grouse woods, sharptail country in Montana, or South Dakota cornfields for autumn roosters. But the veteran footwear manufacturer also has a winning snake-proof boot that will work for turkey hunters in the spring. With a full-grain leather and 900 Denier nylon upper, this boot is tough on the outside, and with 360-degree Snake Guard protection, you don’t have to worry about rattlers in Texas, water moccasins in Florida, or copperheads in the Carolinas.

Snake protection and rugged durability are only a couple of this 17-inch boot’s features. Add in a removable OrthoLite Footbed, the famed Danner Sharptail Outsole and TERRA FORCE platform, a side zipper and lace-up front, and a 100-percent waterproof and breathable Gore-Tex membrane, and this boot is as comfortable on the inside as it is heavy duty on the outside. And with other Sharptail boot options available, the entire lineup is great to consider for hunting spring turkeys and fall upland birds. danner.com | $330

Irish Setter MudTrek Boot

No matter how wet and slippery the hunting conditions are in the spring turkey woods, the Irish Setter MudTrek boot will keep you climbing muddy hillsides, walking through shallow creek bottoms, and having dry socks and feet on a dew-soaked morning. Checking in as a 17-inch pull-on rubber hunting boot, this model features vulcanized rubber for waterproof construction, as well as a rubber mudder outsole that provides stability and traction in rough-and-tumble terrain thanks to an aggressive lug pattern. With unisex sizing that will work for men, women and youth, this boot also has a Mossy Oak Country DNA camo upper along with ScentBan scent control. And with easy-on-easy-off leg and ankle openings, this stylish and comfortable boot can work in the turkey woods, back at the cabin, or in a late October treestand as the whitetail rut approaches. irishsetterboots.com | $199

LaCrosse AeroHead Sport Boot

If you hunt in the swampy low country of South Carolina, need to cross a rain swollen creek in Tennessee, or have to negotiate some muddy terrain in Western Merriam’s country, a rubber boot might be a preferred option for spring hunts. The AeroHead Sport from LaCrosse is a game-changer in that department, turning to a shell made from extremely durable, lightweight and insulating polyurethane, the same material used to insulate refrigerators and freezers. That helps to keep hunters light on their feet in this 16-inch boot that checks in with a weight of just five pounds.

Hunters don’t have to worry about their socks getting wet either from pesky holes and boot punctures, since the AeroHead Sport features lightweight neoprene uppers and uses Brush Tuff material on the outside to stand up to unforgiving brush and briers. That results in another winner from LaCrosse, an abrasion-resistant boot (there’s also a shin guard for extra protection without adding bulk) that is lightweight, comfortable, durable and waterproof. It’s the complete package in a hunting boot when wet conditions exist. lacrossefootwear.com | $240

LaCrosse NWTF Grange Boot

Dubbed the official boot of turkey season, LaCrosse has taken its famous Grange rubber boot and added Mossy Oak camouflage and a partnership with the National Wild Turkey Federation to keep the spring woods filled with gobbles for many years to come. Using 100-percent waterproof rubber construction, this 18-inch boot has a nylon fabric lining to aid getting into and out of the boot, as well as a fiberglass shank, EVA footbed, adjustable top strap and Lacrosse’s revolutionary ankle fit.

With the NWTF logo adorning the outside, these stylish boots also support conservation since LaCrosse gives a portion of each sale back to the NWTF to support wild-turkey conservation efforts. That’s a win-win in the turkey woods. lacrossefootwear.com | $120

Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof Boot

Not every turkey hunter needs or wants a rubber boot, or something tall and snake-proof. For those who like to hunt run-and-gun style by hiking through prickly pear flats in Texas, the rolling terrain of the Rocky Mountains, or the pine and oak forests back east, the Merrell Moab 2 Timber Waterproof boot is a great choice for turkey hunting.

With Merrell’s ComfortBase footbed and midsole technology for superior shock absorption and cushion on rugged terrain, this eight-inch boot feels like a top-end hiking boot. Add in a full-grain waterproof leather upper, a waterproof membrane inside that keeps H2O at bay and still allows the foot to breathe, and this is a comfortable and dry boot all day long.

And with Merrell’s Air Cushion in the heel to absorb shock and add stability, not to mention a slip and oil resistant durable rubber outsole, and this boot is comfortable and steady no matter how rugged the terrain you’re hiking through while trying to strike up a gobbling bird on a fine spring day. merrell.com | $175

Rocky Sport Pro Pull-On Rubber Snake Boot

Rocky is one of America’s leading footwear manufacturers for hunters and the Rocky Sport Pro Rubber Snake Boot is another winner from this longtime Ohio bootmaker. With 100-percent waterproof protection, vulcanized rubber construction, rubber outsole, and steel shank and removable footbed, this boot is tough in the woods where rainfall or other water encounters are a definite possibility.

And if there’s a chance you might see a venomous snake, this boot has you covered there, too, thanks to 16 inches worth of snake-proof protection.

Add in Rocky’s Briar & Thorn Guard, and you can walk through briars, brush, and cactus flats without any worries. And to top it all off, the boot comes in the stylish Realtree Edge camo pattern, so you’ll look good back at camp in the skinning shed, at the dinner table telling hunting stories, or around the campfire while celebrating another hard-won gobbler. rockyboots.com | $187

Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse Boot

On some rare April mornings down South and across the East, it can be quite chilly and damp as frost coats the ground. Further north in New England, across the Great Lakes states, and out into Merriam’s country in the Rocky Mountains, freezing temps and even late-season snow can be the culprit, causing cold toes and damp feet. If you might need a warm-and-dry boot for such conditions, keep the eight-inch waterproof and insulated Thorogood American Heritage Crazyhorse boot in mind when it becomes available later this year. With Crazyhorse full-grain leather and 400 grams of waterproof insulation, your feet will stay protected, warm and dry even if April snow showers threaten May wildflowers.

Add in a composite shank, slip-resistant Vibram 1275 Olympia rubber outsole, Goodyear storm welt construction and removable Ultimate Shock Absorption inserts, this boot provides rugged protection, lots of traction, and keeps a hunter’s feet cushioned on the move. And with American-made construction, this boot scheduled to appear this year will be a winner for hunters in many types of terrain and hunting seasons. thorogoodusa.com

Twisted X Snake Boot

The Twisted X boot lineup is popular for many, featuring stylish construction and lots of features that hunters like in and out of the woods. This 17-inch snake boot in Mossy Oak Bottomland camo features a full-grain leather upper, leather pull-on tabs, waterproof lining, Viperguard technology snake protection, nylon/glass fiber shank, superior CellStretch cushioning in the forefoot and heel areas, compression-molded EVA midsole that actually has molasses integrated into it, and an oil- and slip-resistant molded rubber outsole. The boot also is environmentally friendly, coming with a 17-inch shaft made with an EcoTWX fabric blend that is made from an average of 13 recycled plastic bottles per pair of Twisted X boots. twistedx.com | $289.95

Optics have become standard equipment for most hunting applications with one exception—wingshooting. It’s still relatively rare to see a waterfowl or upland gun that’s equipped with an optic, but that’s changing thanks in part to sights like the Aimpoint Micro S-1 red dot.

The Aimpoint Micro S-1’s miniaturized dimensions and light weight make it an ideal optic for use on a shotgun. With a length of 2.5 inches, a height of 1.6 inches and a weight (with battery) of just 3.5 ounces, the Micro S-1 doesn’t take up a great deal of space on the rib of a shotgun. With a high-strength aluminum housing featuring a semi-matte anodized finish and an integrated carbon fiber-reinforced polymer base, it doesn’t significantly change the balance point of the gun, either.

Unlike traditional shotgun optics that require shooters to purchase aftermarket bases and attach them to the gun’s receiver the Micro S-1’s integrated base fits onto the rib of virtually any gun. By measuring the height and width of your shotgun rib you can determine which base/plate combination is required, and Aimpoint offers an easy-to-follow diagram that helps you determine the right combo for your firearm.

The base secures to the sides and bottom of the rib and, when it’s tightened in place, holds zero even while firing magnum loads. It’s a simple installation process and, unlike traditional shotgun optics, you can quickly and easily install or remove the optic as desired. The Micro S-1 can be positioned at any point along the rib of the shotgun, and the low (.55 inches) optical axis makes it easy to view the 6 MOA red dot from a natural shooting position without having to lift your head from the gun. Eye relief is unlimited and there’s no parallax error with these sights.

The Aimpoint Micro S-1 red dot operates using a reflex collimator with LED display. This offers shooters the ability to adjust point of impact, a major advantage for shotgun shooters. Traditionally, shotguns ribs were designed with different points of impact (POI) based on the application. Trap guns, for instance, have a higher point of impact, from 70/30 (where 70% of the pattern rises above the rib) and up. Skeet, sporting clays, and field guns usually shoot “flat” with a 50/50 POI. Some high-end competition shotguns offer interchangeable ribs to adjust POI, but swapping ribs is a hassle. The Micro S-1 allows shooters to adjust POI quickly in the field using the provided tool and you can also adjust windage — something that’s difficult on guns without an optic. The ability to change POI is a major benefit for shooters and this feature increases the versatility of your shotgun.

Using a reflex sight on a shotgun has traditionally been a challenge because a bright sky can wash out the dot. To compensate for this, Aimpoint offers additional brightness settings. Illuminance is measured in lux (lx), and the Micro S-1’s red dot is visible from .1 lx (the equivalent of a moonlit night) to 55,000 lx (full sun). With 12 separate brightness settings, you can match the intensity of the dot to the light conditions regardless and you won’t lose sight of the dot even when you’re shooting clay targets or birds in full, bright sunlight.

Aimpoint Micro S-1 reflex optics are powered by a single CR2032 3V lithium battery that lasts for 50,000 hours of continuous use. Operating temperatures range from -20 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit and the unit is submersible to 15 meters which means if you drop your gun in shallow water while duck hunting your optic will still function properly. The durable Aimpoint sight is also resistant to shock, humidity, vibration and is resistant to occasional chemical exposure from gun cleaners, lubricants, fuel and insect repellents.

Aimpoint Micro S-1 Red Dot Sight Applications

I mounted the Aimpoint Micro S-1 red dot on the rib of a CZ 1012 12-gauge semiauto shotgun and zeroed the unit for a flat POI at 20 yards. The polymer base holds firmly onto the gun’s rib and even after multiple rounds of skeet and five stand there was no shift in point of impact. Despite having used shotguns with traditional beads throughout my shooting career I found that transitioning to the Micro S-1 was seamless. The aluminum housing is compact enough that it doesn’t distract the shooter and the 6 MOA dot offers a reference point regarding muzzle position even when the shooter is focused on the target. When I transitioned to trap targets, I had the option of adjusting POI to 70/30 in seconds. Additionally, I fired a full box of 3-inch magnum turkey loads through the CZ 1012 and the Micro S-1 withstood the heavy recoil without shaking loose or shifting POI.

The Aimpoint Micro S-1 improved my accuracy when shooting moving targets, especially on very bright days, and science shows that I’m not alone. Research conducted in Sweden in 2018 indicates that shooters who used Micro S-1-equipped shotguns performed markedly better than shooters who used guns with traditional bead sights on the country’s mandatory hunter exam. Two separate trials demonstrated that hunters using Micro S-1 optics hit a combined average of 24% more targets on the portions of the exam that simulates running hare and flying upland birds that shooters who didn’t use an optic. That’s an impressive jump in accuracy and lends credit to Aimpoint’s claim that shotgun performance improves with a reflex sight in place.

The unit’s innovative base design makes it the most versatile shotgun optic available. You can attach it to your upland shotgun while hunting birds or braking clays and then quickly transition the Micro S-1 to a waterfowl or turkey gun. It also improves the accuracy potential when shooting smoothbore slugs and its low-light capabilities make the Aimpoint Micro S-1 red dot a superb option for home defense scatterguns. Never before has a single optic offered this level of versatility for shotgun shooters in such a compact, durable platform. MSRP: $820

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.

Whether we’re ready to admit it or not, the number of natural disasters that occur each year has steadily increased over time. From flash floods and wildfires to heat waves and hurricanes, major events are plaguing the planet more consistently, which puts us at risk when help is hours, days or even weeks away. To prepare for such events, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends we put together an emergency supply kit that contains batteries, first aid supplies, water and food. But a kit filled with perishable foods won’t do you good—any kit worth its salt should contain the best emergency food supplies.

Thanks to their astoundingly long shelf life—up to 30 years in some cases—emergency food supplies are perfectly suited for your preparedness kit. They’re typically offered in larger quantities with individually packaged meals that take minutes to prepare. And while some kits require hot water (in which case, you’ll need to add a camp stove to your kit), others can be rehydrated with nothing more than cold, bottled water (though you should still have a water filter handy just in case).

Non-perishable food kits have long been associated with campers and travelers, but for many of us, keeping long-lasting food on hand just makes good sense. These emergency food supplies tend to be affordable, convenient, easy to use and they last forever, which is why you should keep some in your pantry, garage or basement should you need it.

With this in mind, we’ve rounded up the best emergency food supplies for your basement stockpile, backcountry survival kit or dedicated bug out bag. This list includes options for people with dietary restrictions or specific preferences, and it includes kits that actually taste good, which makes it easier to literally weather the storm.

• Best Emergency Food Supplies For Families: ReadyWise Emergency Food Supply
• Best Emergency Food Supplies For Vegetarians: Survive2Thrive Vegetarian Preparedness Pail
• Best Gluten-Free Emergency Food Supplies: Mountain House Essential Bucket
• Best Emergency Food Supplies For Appetizing Fare: Good To-Go Emergency Food Kit
• Best For Variety: Augason Farms Emergency Supply Food Kit
• Best Emergency Food Bars: S.O.S. Rations Emergency Food Bars
• Best Splurge-Worthy Emergency Food Supplies: Momofuku Noodle Variety Pack
• Best Emergency Canned Food Supplies: Scout Smoked Wild Pink Salmon
• Best emergency Hydration Supplements: Protekt Hydration Supplements

How We Chose The Best Emergency Food Supplies

As backpackers, homeowners and family members, we understand the unique challenges that come with sourcing food in the midst of unpredictable circumstances. We’ve camped in the backcountry for weeks at a time, just as we’ve endured long-term periods without power, and were it not for emergency survival foods and other dehydrated meal kits, we likely would have found ourselves in tough situations. As such, we know what to look for when testing, reviewing and researching emergency food supply options, and we know how to source credible options that speak to quality and extended shelf life.

When assembling this review, we considered each meal kit’s serving size, shelf life, total weight and nutritional value before weighing these factors against their respective reviews. We scoured the web for options, spoke with experts, poured over hundreds of reviews and tested many of these products ourselves. Only the best survived our rigorous testing.

Why Trust Forbes Vetted

At Forbes Vetted, we know how frustrating and time consuming it can be to spend hours sifting through a seemingly endless list of survival products and online reviews. That’s why we took the headache out of the process by testing and reviewing many of these products ourselves. And because the emergency food landscape is changing in accordance with the times, we update this list regularly to reflect the best options and up-to-date information. This list was last updated September 2024.

What To Consider When Shopping For Emergency Food Supplies

Investing in emergency food supplies is a crucial step in ensuring you and your family are prepared for unexpected scenarios. To find the right emergency food for your needs, consider these essential variables:

Nutritional Content

Look for foods that offer a balanced nutritional profile, including protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals, and check for allergen information, especially if anyone in your household has dietary restrictions.

Shelf Life

Longer shelf life ensures that your supplies remain edible for an extended period, so be sure to evaluate both freeze-dried and canned options, as they often have different shelf lives.

Storage Requirements

Determine whether the food requires special storage conditions, such as cool, dry places, and consider space limitations when storing bulk supplies. If live in a home with a garage or basement, storage won’t likely be an issue, but if you live in a smaller apartment you may need to take kit size into consideration.

Caloric Value

Calculate the daily caloric needs of your household members to ensure you have enough food to sustain everyone—some emergency food supply kits are designed to provide a specific number of calories per day.

Food Variety

Aim for variety to prevent flavor fatigue during extended emergencies, and to do this, look for kits that offer a mix of entrees, sides, snacks and beverages.

Special Dietary Needs

Consider any dietary restrictions, allergies or preferences within your household when selecting supplies. Be sure to seek out options that cater to specific diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or kosher, as these dietary restrictions will limit which foods you can store.

Ease Of Preparation

Examine the simplicity of cooking or rehydrating the food, especially if you don’t have access to elaborate cooking equipment. Some emergency meals only require hot water, while others may need additional ingredients or equipment.

Taste And Quality

Emergency food supplies don’t generally taste all that good, but you can still read reviews (or sample products if possible) to assess the taste and quality of the emergency food supplies. If it tastes good, there’s a better chance you’ll be willing to eat it, even in the midst of an emergency.

Are Survival Food Kits Worth It?

Survival food kits represent a low-cost, risk-free means of preparing for the unpredictable, which makes them a worthwhile investment. While we can’t recommend replacing your normal diet with survival food options (these kits don’t offer a number of essential nutrients, despite claims that suggest otherwise), we can recommend keeping a kit in your basement on the off-chance that you need it.

Should I Stock Up On Emergency Food?

According to the FEMA, your emergency kit should contain at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food. The agency also recommends choosing foods your family will eat and paying attention to special dietary needs. Common non-perishable foods include protein or fruit bars, dry cereal, ready-to-eat canned options and high-energy foods.

What Is The Best Survival Food Supply?

The answer to this question depends on your personal situation and what sort of emergency, natural disaster or food shortage you’re preparing for. If you live in a part of the country that isn’t prone to natural disasters, you may be able to get by with a stockpile of peanut butter, granola bars, water and canned beans and vegetables. But if you live in an area that tends to experience hurricanes, earthquakes, tornadoes or wildfires, you may need to invest in larger quantities of emergency foods that can be prepared with only water and are highly portable should you have to leave your home.