The military widely employs walkie-talkies, as seen in numerous action movies. It depicts an essential item or tool for all troops. In real life, walkie-talkies are extremely useful for communication during the war. In the old days, the military made two-way radios for soldiers in infantry squads to keep them in touch with their leaders. They made the radios from backpack radios that soldiers in the units carried. Likewise, people who use walkie-talkies, also called handheld transceivers (HT), can take them around.

Although walkie-talkies lack the range and flexibility of cell phones, they are handier to use during particular tasks. It is because it’s simple to use. For example, a radio set in within the range of the other will always be available. In this article, let’s look at the top tactical walkie-talkies available. But, first, find some of their leading characteristics to see how they rank in our military groups.

5 best Tactical Walkie-Talkies

#1 Motorola CP200

#2 Cobra CXY800

#3 Midland LXT600VP3

#4 Baofeng BF-F8HP

#5 Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios

How to Choose the best Walkie Talkie

Maintaining contact with others is critical, especially if you’re researching survival options or relocating. The best military-grade walkie-talkie makes communication with your team simple. In addition, because walkie-talkies are generally helpful, they can bring them with them at any time. As a result, before purchasing a walkie-talkie, it is critical to understand the essential features. As a result, consider the following factors when selecting a radio for your team.

Frequency

Understanding the distinctions between VHF and UHF two-way radio will help you decide which is best for you and the team. The FCC regulates the operating frequencies of all wireless communication devices, including two-way radios and cell phones. As a result, knowing what radio frequency your team requires is critical.

In addition, keep in mind that VHF waves are longer. As a result, a VHF-enabled two-way radio can cover greater distances while using less power. The popular UHF-enabled two-way radio, on the other hand, can penetrate obstructions in indoor environments due to its shorter wavelength.

Durability

Another factor to consider is the product’s durability. Of course, a durable walkie-talkie is essential, even for indoor use. However, if one intends to use a walkie-talkie primarily outside, ruggedized devices, unlike regular walkie-talkies, can usually withstand environmental variables such as extreme temperatures and the elements.

Battery life

The battery is crucial for this kind of device. Many two-way radios incorporate helpful AA or AAA batteries and accept disposable alkaline batteries or rechargeable nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. At the same time, some batteries are rechargeable in packs. Unfortunately, the bigger the radio’s power output, the faster it will drain your batteries.

Emergency Alert Feature

Emergencies are the scariest moments you will face, and knowing you have no one by your side is even more frightening. As a result, having a robust tactical radio can put your mind at ease. A long-distance walkie-talkie system with sound alarms, such as a weather band and emergency lighting, would benefit. Every emergency necessitates the use of a dependable communication device. If you have the best emergency two-way radio in your bag, it will save you many worries and prepare you for any severe crisis.

Channels

Channels are one of the most important factors to consider when deciding on the best long-distance walkie-talkie. A military walkie-talkie, for example, may have single or multiple channels. Switching channels allows you to avoid static and other interruptions, so having a multi-channel product is usually the best option. On the other hand, dealing with only one channel is frequently inefficient. So, it is always better to check this important feature before buying.

Price

The price of walkie-talkies can vary significantly, so it’s usually a good idea to shop around. However, it is always better to research through an online market or check out reviews from reliable resources before visiting some retail shops. Shopping at three or four different stores before committing to a purchase is usually the best way to find the perfect goods. Additionally, comparing and contrasting the features and costs of many goods will always result in the best military walkie-talkie at the lowest price.

Why should I use a Tactical Walkie Talkie?

Using a tactical walkie-talkie is robust and more reliable. One can depend on its features suitable for heavy day work. It must have the ability to use for an extended time without worries. Walkie-talkies can also save a life in an emergency crisis. Even if you are using it personally at home, it will benefit you and your family.

Further, communication equipment has undergone numerous developments which provide significant outcomes. For example, people used to communicate with pagers and professional walkie-talkies before the days of tweeting and texting.

Long-range Walkie-Talkies have become a necessity for industries due to changing consumer needs and households. In addition, the use of smartphones and cell phones grew because of the inconvenient licensing radio norms that used to come with walkie-talkies. However, today you can use many decent and solid walkie-talkies without a license.

Lastly, you will be able to communicate with multiple groups of individuals simultaneously as a result of this. Similarly, if you utilize a walkie-talkie in a challenging working environment, you should consider purchasing a waterproof walkie-talkie.

Conclusion – The 5 best Tactical Walkie-Talkies

When determining which walkie-talkie to buy, this is one of the most critical factors. For example, suppose you require a walkie-talkie for military people. In that case, you’ll most likely need a more robust and professional cellphone with longer battery life and range and a more significant number of channels. Because determining the number of users, nature, and location are also important. Many radios can provide great aesthetics but not enough to provide excellent service, especially during emergencies.

The five tactical walkie-talkies discussed in this article are dependable in many situations. Depending on the team size and industry, you may pick one of these best tactical radios. It may be better to choose the Arcshell Rechargeable Long Range Two-Way Radios, aside from it comes with six per pack. They are well-made, light, and have an excellent range while maintaining crystal-clear broadcast and receive. They must be really durable to use and for longevity.

Accuracy and precision are two key factors in shooting at any distance and with any firearm. A distance of 300 yards isn’t far enough yet to be considered ‘long range’ shooting, but it is farther than a lot of people are used to. At 50 or 100 yards mistakes and shooting errors aren’t as glaring. Without the proper knowledge and tools, at 300 yards you might be off the paper entirely, or at least far from the center. So, today we will be discussing rifle distances, scopes, tips for selecting good rifle optics for 300 yards, and shooting tips to remain effective at this distance.

Understanding the Challenges of Shooting at 300 Yards

To make informed decisions about the right 300 yard rifle scope first, we have to respect that this isn’t just backyard shooting. At 300 yards mistakes are a big deal, and the scope you choose should be considered with the same level of seriousness. Let’s discuss the challenges of hitting targets at 300 yards and beyond, and how the right rifle scope can be the difference-maker.

Bullet Drop

Bullet drop refers to the projectile’s descent due to gravity. At 300 yards you can expect to see the following.

• A .308 caliber round will drop roughly between 10-12 inches (depending on specific load, conditions, and ballistic coefficient of the round).
• A 6.5 Creedmoor will see a drop of around 7-9 inches.
• A 5.56 round experiences a drop of approximately 11-13 inches.

Wind Drift

Another factor to reckon with is wind drift — the sideways motion of a bullet caused by crosswinds. Ballistic coefficients tell us how aerodynamically efficient a bullet is, which becomes more relevant as we shoot farther. The higher this coefficient, the less the bullet will be affected by wind drift.

For a 7 mph crosswind at 300 yards:

• A .308 caliber round will drift by about 10-12 inches.
• A 6.5 Creedmoor will drift around 7-9 inches.
• The 5.56 round will experience a wind drift of approximately 9-11 inches.

Target Visibility

It’s basic logic: the farther the target, the harder it is to see clearly. When you’re aiming at 300 yards, being able to discern your target clearly becomes more important. A good rifle scope will not only offer magnification to bring the target into closer focus but also have clear glass that give a crisp image.

A jump from 100 to 300 yards in shooting is no small feat. Bullet drop, wind drift, and target visibility are challenges that shooters must navigate. However, with the right rifle scope hitting targets at 300 yards becomes far more achievable.

Considerations Of 300 Yard Scopes

When selecting a rifle scope for long shots, understanding specific scope features will guide you towards making a choice in deciding what a good rifle scope for 300 yards will be.

Magnification Range

Magnification is a key factor in providing a close-up view of your target. For 300 yards, a magnification range between 5x and 12x is considered suitable. It provides a clear view of the target while maintaining a decent field of view (FOV) to observe surroundings, helping shooters aim precisely and also track moving targets or changing conditions swiftly. Semi-auto shooters are sometimes concerned about being able to quickly acquire targets for closer shots, and many elect to add an offset red dot on a rifle mount for quick close-range shots.

Objective Lens Diameter

The objective lens of a rifle scope determines how much light the scope allows to influence the brightness and clarity of the image. A larger objective lens enables more light, rendering a brighter and clearer image, especially in low-light conditions. However, be mindful of the size and weight it adds to your setup, as a larger lens can be bulkier.

Reticle Type

A reticle, or “crosshairs” help a shooter select their point of aim. For 300-yard shooting, a Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticle can be beneficial as it provides holdover points to account for bullet drop at various distances. Alternatively, a Mil-Dot reticle provides dots along the x and y-axes. These can be used to estimate distances and holdovers, aiding in adjusting for windage and bullet drop more dynamically.

Adjustment Turrets

Adjustment turrets are knobs on a scope that allow you to modify the reticle’s position for windage (horizontal) and elevation (vertical) to sight in your rifle scope at your desired distance. These shouldn’t be changed for windage and elevation of a single shot like in the movies.

Optics Quality

High-quality glass characterized by clear, sharp, and bright images, makes a huge difference in seeing at distances. Look for scopes with lenses that have coatings to reduce glare and enhance light transmission. Superior optical quality reduces eye strain and provides a clearer sight picture, which becomes more important as distance increases.

Durability

Your scope needs to be durable enough to withstand recoil and weather elements. Seek scopes that are fog-proof, and constructed with materials like aircraft-grade aluminum to provide longevity and reliable performance such as the Apex Falcon V2 LPVO Scope.

Eye Relief

Eye relief pertains to the distance from your eye to the scope’s ocular lens while still providing a full-sight picture. Too much or too little eye relief causes scope shadowing.

It also protects your eye from ‘scope eye,’ or ‘scope bite’ which happens when the gun recoils and your eye is too close. It doesn’t feel good… I’m told.

Generally, an eye relief of at least 3.5 inches is considered safe and comfortable for most shooters with a more powerful rifle. Eye relief usually decreases as magnification increases, it is important to select the right picatinny mount for your scope.

Find The Right Scope For Your Long-Range Rifle

In selecting a proper 300 yard rifle scope you have to make sure it is compatible with your rifle. Many scope reticles on the market that compensate for bullet drop are caliber-specific and not interchangeable. So be sure to do your research or you may find yourself with an expensive scope that you cannot use.

Calibers For 300 Yard Rifle Scopes

Each caliber has different external and terminal ballistics which should be considered. For example, of the three calibers we have been discussing 6.5 Creedmoor has the highest ballistic coefficient. BC is part of the external ballistics of the round and dictates why it is less affected by external factors.

. A few popular calibers for 300-yard shooting include:

• .308 Winchester: Known for its accuracy and versatility, the .308 Winchester has a relatively flat trajectory, which means it doesn’t drop as quickly at longer distances. It also delivers good energy and is less affected by wind, making it a popular choice for long-range shooting.
• 6.5 Creedmoor: The 6.5 Creedmoor is highly regarded for its long-range precision. It combines a high ballistic coefficient with low recoil, allowing for accurate shots well beyond 300 yards. It’s known for maintaining velocity and energy at extended ranges.
• 5.56 NATO: While the 5.56 NATO is not typically associated with extremely long-range shooting, but is still very effective at 300 yards and beyond, especially with the right barrel twist rate. It’s lightweight, which reduces recoil, and it’s readily available, making it a budget-friendly option for intermediate-range shooting.

Each of these calibers has its own ballistic profile, influencing aspects like bullet drop and wind drift at 300 yards, which should inform your choice of scope and reticle. The terminal ballistics of each round should also be considered based on your goals for the firearm. Terminal ballistics is the study of what happens to a projectile, such as a bullet, upon impact with a target.

Selecting Reticle For 300-Yard Shooting

The reticle is essentially your aiming point within the scope, and choosing a type that complements your shooting style and the ballistics of your caliber goes a long way to increase precision with distance.

BDC Reticles

Bullet Drop Compensator (BDC) reticles feature holdover points that visually represent bullet drop at varied distances, making it easier to quickly adjust your aim for long shots without needing to make any rifle scope adjustments. BDC reticles are calibers and bullet weight specific so choose one that aligns with your shooting profile.

Mil-Dot Reticles

Mil-Dot reticles are another fantastic option for long-range shooting. They feature dots along the crosshairs that represent specific distances (in milliradians) and can be used to estimate the distance to your target and adjust for both bullet drop and windage. This type of reticle allows for swift adjustments and is popular among military, tactical shooters, and hunters.

Illuminated Reticles

Illuminated reticles incorporate adjustable lighting into the reticle design. This helps visibility in low-light conditions – like during dawn or dusk, or in heavily shadowed areas.

This enhancement can significantly improve sight picture and target acquisition when natural lighting is suboptimal. However, don’t forget to swap out batteries, or bring extra on your hunting trip.

Looking for a scope that really does the job?

The Tacticon Armament Falcon V3 it a dedicated rifle scope that features an illuminated reticle that allows you to choose between red, green, and blue. The different color choices allow the scope to be more adaptable in different environments. With a 3x-9x range the scope is very capable at 300 yards, and the Mil-dot reticle assists shooters with hold overs for distance and wind drift. The scope comes in at a very affordable price, right around $150, and can be used for a variety of calibers.

Tips To Improve 300-Yard Shooting Performance

Effective shooting at 300 yards doesn’t only depend on choosing the right rifle scope, accounting for wind drift, and bullet drop. It also heavily relies on your shooting techniques, understanding of environmental factors, and knowledge about the ballistics of your chosen caliber. Let’s discuss some aspects that can fine-tune your 300-yard shooting abilities.

General Shooting Tips

There’s no replacement for proper shooting technique. Even minor inconsistencies in your shooting fundamentals are magnified over longer distances, transforming what might be negligible at 100 yards into a significant miss at 300 yards. Here’s a closer look at some general tips:

• Trigger Pull: A smooth, consistent pull avoids disturbing the rifle’s position during firing.
• Breathing: Pause your breath while squeezing the trigger to reduce movement.
• Steady Shooting Position: Establish a stable position, ensuring that the rifle is well-supported and your body is relaxed. A minor error in any of these can result in a several-inch deviation at 300 yards, whereas the impact would be minimal at closer ranges like 100 yards.

Adjustment Factors

• Wind Reading: Understanding how to read the wind and compensate for its effect on your projectile makes a big difference. Wind can push your bullet off course, and its impact is more pronounced at 300 yards. Look for tall grass, leaves, really anything that moves to help estimate wind speed.
• Range Estimation: Accurate range estimation is key to compensating for bullet drop. Mil dot and BDC reticles will help with this. Range finders are also very useful. Don’t forget your analog skills though. In the movie Jarhead, Jamie Foxx asked his Marines how he knew the target was 300 yards away. One Marine replied “Three football fields, Sir.” When in doubt, use what you know.

Ballistics

Understanding the ballistic characteristics of your chosen caliber and ammunition is a fundamental piece of compensating for bullet drop and wind drift. The difference in bullet drop from a 55gr FMJ and 77gr OTM 5.56 round is about 4 inches at this distance, with the 77gr having less drop due to its higher ballistic coefficient.

Final Notes

Successful shooting at 300 yards comes down to marksmanship fundamentals first and foremost. After this having an accurate rifle is the next essential. Without these two there is no way to consistently make accurate shots.

A good scope will both increase accuracy and consistency once these two pieces are in place. For 300 yards it is best to have a scope with a way to compensate for environmental factors tailored to the caliber of the rifle.

Proper magnification between 5x-12x will greatly increase visibility and accuracy by making it easier to aim. Look for a scope with crisp, clear glass and keep it clean so it will serve you for years to come.

The opinions expressed in this post are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Tacticon Armament.

Crappie fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers since the fish are very easy to catch and they put up a good fight when caught, making the process very fun.

When it comes to selecting the pound test for the fishing line when catching crappie, though, there appears to be a bit of a confusion.

This is why I decided to write this post, which answers the question “What pound test fishing line is best for crappie?” and also provides a few recommendations that might make your life easier.

What Pound Test Line Should I Use for Crappie?

There appears to be a great deal of uncertainty over which pound test line is best for crappie fishing.

Because of their diminutive size, crappies don’t put up much of a fight when caught, making them a pleasure to land.

As a bonus, they are quite small, making them a great option for fishers who would rather avoid catching monster fish and enjoy a good time catching smaller fish.

Thus, when angling for crappie, I advise using a line with a 4 pound test. The thin and light nature of this line makes it easier to cast and less likely to startle the fish.

You could use a 6-pound-test line, but if the crappie can see it, they’ll probably notice the line and swim on.

Types of Fishing Lines for Crappie Fishing

Here are some of the most frequent fishing lines followed by an analysis on whether they are good or bad for catching crappie.

Monofilament

All of the material for a monofilament fishing line comes from a single filament. Nylon is the material of choice, however polyethylene and fluorocarbon are occasionally used to compose this fishing line as well.

The durability and tensile strength of monofilament fishing lines make them versatile and useful for fishing of all kinds. This is why they are among the most widely used fishing lines.

Why Is Monofilament Good for Crappie Fishing?

Crappie are easily spooked, so it’s important to use a line that won’t drive them away.

Monofilament’s low visibility encourages Crappie to bite, and the line’s strength improves your chances of landing the fish once they do.

This line’s already impressive strength and durability make it ideal for catching crappie, but its flexibility makes it even much more effective.

Why Aren’t Monofilament Lines Good for Crappie Fishing?

Although monofilament fishing lines are widely used due to their inexpensive price and adaptability, they have a reputation for breaking easily.

Due to their construction from a single strand of material, monofilament lines break easily when subjected to tension.

This is especially true of 4-pound lines, which are usually utilized to catch crappie, see what I mean?

Choosing a good quality monofilament fishing line should solve this issue, though.

Fluorocarbon

Fishing line manufactured from fluorocarbon resin is known as fluorocarbon fishing line. Fishing enthusiasts are increasingly adopting this material because of its many advantages over more conventional options like nylon.

Fluorocarbon lines are not only practically invisible underwater, but also substantially more abrasion resistant than other line, making them less likely to fracture under the force of crappie battling.

Why Is Fluorocarbon Good for Crappie Fishing?

Invisible in water is one of fluorocarbon’s most useful properties. Because the line won’t spook the crappie as easily, it’s great for fishing.

In addition, unlike certain other fishing lines, fluorocarbon can withstand the sun’s ultraviolet rays for extended periods of time without deteriorating.

Finally, fluorocarbon absorbs less water, making it simpler to handle and cast, which is critical for improving the fishing experience.

Why Aren’t Fluorocarbon Lines Good for Crappie Fishing?

I can’t think of any disadvantages to using fluorocarbon line to catch crappie.

Braid Line

Braided fishing line is one variety that is made up of multiple strands of material that are woven together (nylon, polyethylene, etc.).

Braided fishing lines are widely used because they are extremely durable and abrasion-resistant, and they flex very little. This allows for greater sensitivity and feel when casting.

Why Is Braid Line Good for Crappie Fishing?

I would use a braid line to capture crappie for a number of reasons.

Braided line can take on larger fish and heavier weights because of its superior strength.

Second, bites from even the smallest fish may be felt when using braided line because of its extreme sensitivity and lack of elasticity compared to other lines. This will help you catch the most crappie fish possible.

Third, this line is one of the best if you care about underwater visibility, as its smaller diameter belies its greater strength compared to other fishing lines.

Why Aren’t Braid Line Good for Crappie Fishing?

Because to the small diameter of the line, it is readily frayed or broken when exposed to the sharp teeth of a fish.

Second, braid line has very little elasticity, which can make setting the hook when a fish bites difficult.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most frequent questions that always pop out when asking about fishing lines, pound test and catching crappie.

Why do people use yellow line for crappie?

Aside from the 4 to 6 pound test, visibility is an important thing to consider when selecting a crappie fishing line.

A yellow fishing line is a wonderful choice for fisherman that keep a close check on their line. Yellow is easily visible from above, making it simple to notice even the smallest bite.

The yellow color, however, is easily visible to fish swimming underneath. Crappie are more easily spooked by yellow lines than by lines of any other color.

Can crappie see your line?

Yes, Crappie have good eyesight and are very sensitive to movement. This means that if your line is in their line of sight, they will almost certainly notice it.

Crappie are also extremely sensitive to light and dark contrast. As a result, if your line is darker than the water surrounding it, the fish will most likely notice it.

SPANISH LAKE, Mo. (KTVI) – Joshua Jones Jr. is taking it all in after a recent midnight miracle on the Missouri River.

Inspired by a contest, and with support from his father, Joshua made a once-in-a-lifetime catch around midnight Wednesday, reeling in a 108-pound catfish from the river near the St. Louis suburb of Spanish Lake.

Joshua had actually dozed off when the catch happened, exhausted after a long night of fishing.

“I was sleeping when the fish got on, so it kind of woke me up,” said Joshua. “And then I felt the pull and drag, which really woke me up.”

It took about 20 minutes of fighting the line, but Joshua was able to reel in a monster-sized catfish and get it on the boat.

“It was pretty exciting at first when I was fighting the fish,” said Joshua.

He developed his passion and fishing skills through a bond with his father, Joshua Jones Sr. The two have spent countless hours out on the water.

“I had him on the bank before he could walk, trying to catch bluegills,” said Joshua Sr.

A love for angling is something Joshua Sr. learned from his father, driving his inspiration to teach his own two sons.

“I couldn’t wait to have a boy to take out with me and fish and be my best friend out on the river,” said Joshua Sr.

A best friend, also ready to battle the bite. “Take your time. Take your time. Take your time,” said Joshua Sr. recalled telling his son as they worked to tire the massive fish.

Joshua Jr. recalled several instances where he had to grab the catfish with his own hand, guiding it in the right direction. After grueling minutes of toggling with the fishing rod, the small boat’s crew conquered the catfish.

“It’s a monster! It’s a monster!” both said in a video they recorded of the encounter.

What did young Joshua do with his big catch? He took a photo with it, then released it in hopes of entering it into a contest.

“He was determined and always told me, ‘I’m going to catch the record. I want to catch a 100-pound fish, and he caught it,” said Joshua Sr.

“We come out here to fish, but we also come out here to hunt for those big fish,” said Joshua Sr.

They were hoping for a $500 reward in a Mad Katz fishing contest. Joshua Jr. and his father thought they’d be making history and getting a few extra bucks for their bait. Unfortunately, they were disqualified due to a rule violation – judges were unable to visually see the bottom of the net while the pair completed the weigh in.

“A lot of guys search for a fish like that for a long time,” said Joshua Sr.

The whole Jones family has caught countless catfish out on the Missouri waters, but they haven’t seen anything of this size before. Joshua Sr. realizes that no matter how big the catch, fishing is more about the connections.

“To get out here and experience such a thing, to throw a fishing rod, big fish, small fish — a lot of times, it doesn’t matter. Just love the experience itself,” he said.

According to CatfishEdge.com, the largest catfish ever caught in the Missouri River weighed 130 pounds. Greg Bernal caught the catfish in 2010, a one-time world record.

When most people think of slingshots, their heads are probably filled with images of cartoon trouble-makers ala Bart Simpson and Dennis the Menace. And while slingshots can certainly be used for the purposes of making mischief, they were not originally intended for that purpose. Rather, they’re a relatively modern reinterpretation of a much older tool: the sling (like the one used by David against Goliath in the biblical story). And that device, like its modern counterpart, was actually widely utilized for the purposes of hunting and survival.

You might think that, in this day and age, slingshots are all but obsolete — what with guns, bows and arrows, crossbows, etc. But we’d suggest looking at it a different way: using a slingshot is a way of developing better hand-eye coordination, they’re less intrusive and dangerous than firearms, they’re a good deal more approachable from a budgetary standpoint than any of the aforementioned alternatives, and more. If that sounds like something you might be interested in, you’ll definitely want to check out the following guide covering the best slingshots for survival.

Why Carry A Slingshot?

Slingshots as we know them are a relatively modern invention, dating back to just the mid-1800s — a result of the fact that Charles Goodyear invented vulcanized rubber in 1839 and patented the technology in 1844, which slingshots depend upon for their elastic, springy bands. And while they’re typically portrayed in media as the tools of troublemakers, they actually offer quite a lot of genuine value in the hands of a skilled user. We’ve mentioned a few benefits already, but we’d like to take a moment to outline them more in-depth and touch on a few others to better help you understand why you might want a slingshot for survival usage. The following are just some of the reasons you should pick up a slingshot:

Budget-Friendliness: Especially when compared to lethal firearms, slingshots are extremely budget-friendly — both in regards to the initial investment but also in regards to replenishing ammunition (rounds are much more pricey than BBs). In earnest, even the most high-end of slingshots can be purchased for a relatively reasonable price, especially when compared to the alternatives.

Hand-Eye Coordination Development: Target shooting of any kind requires a measure of hand-eye coordination to be done right, but utilizing a slingshot can take even more skill and can help you better develop said skill. Not only does a user need to be able to properly aim to send their ammunition in the right direction, but they’ll also need to properly judge distance, wind resistance, and numerous other factors — much like firing a bow and arrow, but with far less of a monetary investment.

Packability & Portability: The only other projectile weapon that even comes close to the packability and portability of a slingshot is probably a handgun. And, even then, handguns tend to be far heavier, as is their accompanying ammunition. By contrast, there are slingshots (worthy ones) that are small and slender enough to stash in the pocket of your jeans. When it comes to packability and portability, slingshots are tough to beat.

Unobtrusiveness: This ties in closely to the above metric, but we’re including it because it isn’t exactly the same thing. You see, thanks to the fact that slingshots are so compact, they’re also relatively lightweight and easy to use for people of all ages and skill levels. Yes, a professional with years of experience is going to be able to do things a beginner couldn’t fathom, but the learning curve for proficiency is shortened thanks to the manageability of the hardware. Put simply: firing a slingshot is easy to learn but difficult to master.

Marksman Laserhawk III Slingshot

Best Budget Pick: For just a few dollars more than the above option, the Marksman Laserhawk III has some significant upgrades (and one downgrade). These include (but are not limited to) a fully adjustable yoke, a band that’s good for shooting distances of up to 250 yards, and an extremely low weight. As mentioned, there is one downside: this one does not collapse for easier pocketing. Still, if you’re serious about taking your slingshot skills to the next level, this is a superb place to start.

Barnett 16043 Cobra Slingshot

Best with Sight: There is no shame in utilizing training aids, especially when it comes to developing skills that might come in handy in a survival situation. For that reason, we’re fond of the Barnett 16043 Cobra Slingshot. With its metal frame, extended wrist brace, contoured Soft Touch grip, and powerful band, this is an excellent budget-friendly slingshot. But its biggest benefit comes from the included front-end sight, which makes aiming this slingshot even easier and will help you develop your hand-eye coordination faster, especially for beginners.

Hella Flip Folding Slingshot

Best for Travel: The San Francisco-based crew at Hella Slingshots only knows one thing – and that’s how to build a solid slingshot. And, they do so at an affordable price point. Built from a combination of steel and plastic, this slingshot includes a stabilization arm that can fold down for easier transport and comes with a powerful, stretchy band and a faux-leather pouch. As a starter “wrist rocket” style slingshot, this one is an extremely solid buy.

SimpleShot Axiom Ocularis Slingshot

Best for Hiking: As mentioned, there are slingshots on the market that are both high-end and highly compact/portable. The SimpleShot Axiom Ocularis is one such slingshot, measuring up at just 6″ in total height and 2.2oz in total weight. This also happens to be a recreation of SimpleShot founder Nathan Masters’ personal Axiom Ocularis model — which should lend credence to its overall value. Furthermore, it’s built from an injection-molded proprietary thermoplastic material offering “unmatched strength and reliability.” And it can be customized to accept flat bands, tubes, and looped tubes — letting you customize it to your shooting style.

SimpleShot Scout LT Slingshot

Best Small Option: SimpleShot’s Scout XT was one of the brand’s most popular and successful models. But that doesn’t mean there wasn’t room for improvement. Enter the SimpleShot Scout LT you see here, the result of years of work and listening to customer input. This sling is just as capable as its larger counterpart, but measures up at just 5″ in height — making it one of the smallest, best slingshot options available. And since it comes offered with 25 color combinations (five different frames and five different scales), it’s also exceedingly customizable.

Pocket Shot Survival Kit

Best All-in-One Kit: By a wide margin, the Pocket Shot is the most unique and compact slingshot on our list — utilizing a circular frame with a pocket-style pouch that, together, can offer better consistency regarding speed, accuracy, and a shorter learning curve than any other slingshot on our list. But this particular kit is even better, as it actually includes a number of other survival tools, including a fishing line, a saw, a compass, and even a storage tin in which you can store it all. Of course, if you want your pocket shot with a more traditional-style handle, the brand actually offers those, too.

Marksman Pocket Hunter Slingshot

Best for Practicing Your Aim: You can try to fire an arrow with any of the slingshots on this list, but you’ll probably not be very successful. By contrast, however, the Marksman Pocket Hunter Slingshot was actually made specifically with this purpose in mind, marked by a pocket with a paracord pull tab, making it a far superior alternative. In fact, the sale actually includes a 31″ carbon arrow. Whether you’re a seasoned archer seeking out hardware that’s a bit more compact or you’re looking to make the transition into learning how to fire a bow and arrow, this is the slingshot for you.

TOPS Knives Sling

Best Overall: Though the investment comes with a significant jump in price, the overall quality and craftsmanship of the TOPS Sling are more than worth the extra scratch for those serious about their slingshots. After all, it was crafted here in the USA using rugged 1095 carbon steel, which is paired with black canvas Micarta for the handle scales, a top-grain leather pouch, and a powerful band. If you’re the type that had wooden slingshots as a child and you’re looking to recapture those glory days with something a bit more rugged and refined, you definitely can’t go wrong here.

Excerpts from the Old Man & the Boy

Robert Ruark’s The Old Man & the Boy is perhaps the all time classic hunting book ever written. The book tells the story of a grandfather and a grandson’s adventures in the outdoors. The grandfather instills the finest of ethics in the youngster at every opportunity. Though the book was written over 50 years ago, the Old Man’s wisdom will never grow old. Here’s a few quotes of the Old Man. If you haven’t read this book you are cheating yourself for not doing so.

The Old Man knows pretty near close to everything, and mostly he ain’t painful with it. What I mean is he went to Africa once when he was a kid, and he shot a tiger or two out in India, or so he says, and he was in a whole lot of wars here and yonder. But he can still tell you why the quail sleep at night in a tight circle or why the turkeys always fly uphill.

The Old Man ain’t much to look at on the hoof. He’s got big ears that flap out and a scubby mustache with light yellow tobacco stains on it. He smokes a crook stem pipe and he shoots an old pump gun that looks about as battered as he does. The thing I like most about the Old Man is he is willing to talk about what he knows, and he never talks down to a kid.

…”Hunting,” the Old Man said, “is the noblest sport yet devised by the hand of man. There were mighty hunters in the Bible, and all the caves where the cave men lived are full of carvings of assorted game the head of the house drug home. If you hunt to eat, or hunt for sport for something fine, something that will make you proud, and make you remember every single detail of the day you found him and shot him, that is good too. But if there’s one thing I despise is a killer, some blood crazed idiot that just goes around bam-bamming at everything he sees. A man that takes pleasure in death just for death’s sake is rotten somewhere inside, an you’ll find him doing things later on in life that’ll prove it.”

…”A gentleman starts down at his boots and works up to his hat. A gentleman is, first of all, polite. A gentleman never talks down to nobody, or even to anybody that says ‘anybody’ instead of ‘nobody.’ A gentleman ain’t greedy. A gentleman don’t holler at anybody else’s dogs. A gentleman pays his score as he goes. He don’t take what he can’t put back, and if he borrows, he borrows from banks. He never troubles his friends with his troubles.”

…”A sportsman, is a gentleman first. But a sportsman, basically, is a man who kills what he needs, whether it’s fish or bird or animal, or what he wants for a special reason, but he never kills anything just to kill it. And he tries to preserve the very same thing that he kills a little of from time to time. The books call this conservation. It’s the same reason why we don’t shoot that tame covey of quail down to less’n ten birds.”

…This little bobwhite, the Old Man told me, was a gentleman, and you had to approach him as gentleman to gentleman. You had to cherish him and look after him and make him very important in his own right, because there weren’t many of him around and he was worthy of respectful shooting. The way you handled quail sort of kicked back on you. …The little fellow doesn’t weigh but about six ounces but every ounce of him is pure class. He’s smart as a whip, and every time you go up against him you’re proving something about yourself.

…The quail is a member of the family, the Old Man said again. He expects to get fed, like any other member of the family. So you plant him some field peas or some lespedeza or something, and you have to leave it there for him to eat. You plant it close to a place where he can fly in. A bobwhite is pretty well set in his habits. He will walk off from where he roosted, but he likes to fly home. It is a damned shame, the Old Man said, that the human race wouldn’t take a tip from this.

“…any time a boy is ready to learn about guns is the time he’s ready, no matter how young he is, and you can’t start too young to be careful. What you got in your hands is a dangerous weapon. It can kill you, or kill me, or kill a dog. You always got to remember that when a gun is loaded it makes a potential killer out of the man that’s handling it. Don’t you ever forget it!”

…”The older you get, the carefuller you’ll be. When you’re as old as I am, you’ll be so scared of a firearm that every young man you know will call you a damned old maid. But damned old maids don’t shoot the heads off their friends in duck blinds or fire blind into a bush where a deer walked in and then go pick up their best buddy with a hole in his chest.”

…”I ain’t got to tell you that I am going to die”, the Old Man said. “You would know it. You’ve had the best of me, and you’re on your own from now on. You’ll go to college next year, and you’ll be a man, with all a man’s problems, and there won’t be no old man around to steer you. I raised you as best I could an now you’re the old man, because I’m tired and I think I’ll leave.” My eyes blurted to tears, and I said all the things young people say in the presence of death. “Leave it. Leave it,” the Old Man said. “Like I always told you, if there was a way to beat it, I would have heard about it. It’ll even happen to you, unlikely as it seems.” “But how, when, why?” I said, for lack of anything better. “I promise you,” he said, “on my word of honor, I won’t die on the opening day of bird season.” He kept his promise.

Excerpts from Robert Ruark’s classic, The Old Man and the Boy

Back to the Home Page The person who does not read good books has no advantage over the person who can’t read good books. – Will Rogers

Staccato’s newest model for 2022 is called the “CS” and it is now the smallest and lightest model in their lineup, designed for every day carry and personal defense.

We have all eagerly been waiting to hear about the new model Staccato has been teasing for the last few months and the details are finally here.

Specs

Caliber 9mm Trigger 4-4.5lb Aluminum Barrel 3.5″ Bull Barrel Grip Width 1.2″ Length 7.1″ Height 5.6″ Width at Safeties 1.45″ Weight 22.7oz Empty – No Mag Frame 7075 – Billet Precision Machined Aluminum Slide Finish DLC, Black Optic Ready Dawson Precision Optic Carry or Tactical Grip New Stippled Grip

First Glance

At the time of writing this article (October 27th 2022) these have not shipped to Premium Dealers yet so we will be comparing published specifications until our allocation arrives, at which point we will update with pictures and video reviews.

Size

At 7.1″ long, the CS is now the shortest staccato available. For comparison sake, a C2 is listed at 7.5″ long. But the bigger change the reduction in width, meaning there is a new grip shape. The grip width shrinks by approximately a hundred thousandths of an inch from the C2 width, and about fifty thousandths less than a C2 at the safeties. The thinner width should provide a more comfortable concealed carry experience with IWB holsters.

Frame

The CS frame is aluminum. Previously, the only way to get an aluminum frame “small Staccato” was to get a C2-Limited. Which comes with a threaded barrel and Dawson Compensator. (Which is still a good option if you are looking to shoot suppressed) but the CS comes default with the lighter weight aluminum frame instead of steel.

Weight

Because of the reduced size, and aluminum frame, the weight has been reduced to 22.7oz without reducing magazine capacity from the C2

Grip

One of the first things you notice is the new grip. While the new grip STYLING reminds us of the redesigned G2 Tac grip that now comes on the P and XC models in appearance, this is a totally new grip module that (from the specs) appears to be narrower than the C2 grip module.

Magazines

Because the grip has changed, the magazines have changed as well, but they do still hold 16 rounds each (like a C2). However, it is a CS-specific magazine, and cannot share magazines with other Staccato models.

Trigger

Staccato has announced that the CS will come with an aluminum trigger, instead of the typical composite trigger. And the trigger weight will be delivered at 4-4.5lb which is typical for a gun meant for every day carry personal defense.

Barrel

The CS comes with a 3.5″ bull barrel that we haven’t seen in the Staccato lineup yet. It has some noticeably different design features in the portion of the barrel that is visible externally. So far we have not heard anything about a threaded barrel option yet, so for now you will still have to go to a C2 for a “small Staccato” suppressed shooting experience.

Optic Ready

Much like the C2, the CS can come configured with full size tactical sights designed to mate with a full size optic like a Trijicon RMR/SRO, Holosun 507C/508T/509T or it can also be ordered with lower profile compact sights for use with smaller carry optics like the Trijicon RMR CC or Holosun 507K

We are on the Staccato Premium Dealer program and we have reserved an allocation of these from the first production release. If you are interested in learning more, please feel free to reach out to us.

Interested in receiving more info like this directly to your email inbox? Sign up for our mailing list below to gain early access to new inventory, exclusive deals, and more.

Loading…

Calling in bobcats is a tough task many predator hunters attempt, but few master. After reading these bobcat calling tips, you’ll be on your way to having a better understanding of how to call in bobcats at night and during daylight. A lot of bobcat calling mastery comes from understanding their characteristics, behavior, and perspective on life as they see it.

General Bobcat Calling Tips

Calling Bobcats at Night

Nighttime Setup and Location

How to Call Bobcats at Night

Calling Bobcats During Daylight

Day Time Setup and Location

How to Call Bobcats During the Day

Best States for Calling in Bobcats

General Bobcat Calling Tips

Generally speaking, bobcats are most abundant near water sources. They prefer traveling through creek beds, along rivers and streams, and even heavy brush areas. They aren’t ones to come out in the open, they almost always prefer to have cover as they are natural stalkers.

In order to be effective in hunting a territory for bobcats, the first step is figuring out if they are even in the area. A section of land that has all the characteristics that cater to bobcats, may still not actually have bobcats.

The first and foremost method of confirming if a bobcat is in the area is to search for tracks, scat, or even dead animals covered with leaves and brush or in trees.

Here’s a couple general calling tips that separate bobcats from coyotes:

• Scan areas of cover heavily while calling, bobcats rarely fully commit to a call like a coyote does.
• Coyote stands may be over in as little as 15-20 minutes, bobcat stands can last an hour or longer.
• Stopping and starting calling sequences can spark a coyotes curiosity, the same tactic will cause a bobcat to lose interest. It’s important to keep bobcats focused on the target, and never stop calling. Decoys are also a great method to keep bobcats focused on the prize.
• Location calls work to find areas with coyotes, but scouting and observing is the best method to find areas with bobcats.
• If you’re calling bobcats in a new area, talk to the local farmers and ranchers or even Wildlife Department to get an idea where they are most commonly seen.
• Foxes and coyotes are more likely to come to your call before a bobcat does. Be aware of this before choosing to discharge.
• Bobcat calls should be higher pitched and at lower volumes as they get closer to the call. Bird and rabbit distress are two go-to calling techniques for bobcats.

Calling Bobcats at Night

The general bobcat calling tips we discussed above apply to calling bobcats at night, but the strategy of night time calling and day time calling is significantly different.

Nighttime bobcat calling is learning how to use the darkness to pull bobcats out of areas of cover, where they feel more comfortable. The darkness gives them a sense of protectiveness, and with the help of red hunting lights you can reveal them in the open without them knowing.

Nighttime Setup and Location

The best areas to setup while calling bobcats at night are open fields near a brush or tree line, open senderos, or even in the middle of dry creeks if there is enough visibility.

Bobcats are notorious to stay in areas of cover, but at night the darkness is their protection so they are far more willing to come out into the open. In our opinion, it is far easier to call a bobcat in at night versus the day time.

Thermals and night vision are becoming more popular for nighttime bobcat hunting, but red hunting lights can be equally as beneficial. Learn how to properly scan when predator hunting and a light can be more advantageous than night vision or thermal.

We prefer using our Predator Cannon Hunting Light Bars for calling bobcats at night, as they light up an entire field in red without alerting the cat, and are fully dimmable for near and far ranges. We’ve picked up a bobcat in the scope at over 800 yards with the Predator Cannon.

Predator Cannon Hunting Light Bar Setup for Calling Bobcats

If you’re interested in a mobile setup for calling in bobcats and covering a bunch of land, the Predator Cannon Hunting Light Bars are most likely a great fit for you. Here’s some different mounting idea’s we’ve seen from bobcat calling contest winners: Predator Cannon Hunting Light Mounting Ideas.

How to Call Bobcats at Night

When calling bobcats at night, once you start…don’t stop. They can lose interest very easily. The good news is bobcats are more likely to commit to a call like a coyote would at night in comparison to the daytime.

It’s best to know where you’re going to setup and scope the area during the day so you’re not fumbling around at night distracting critters around you.

• Calls should be based upon what is more locally available in terms of birds and rabbits: if there are woodpeckers, use woodpecker distress; cottontails, use cottontail distress; jackrabbits, use jackrabbit distress and so on.
  • If you aren’t sure what’s in the area, the three distress calls listed above are fairly universal in attracting bobcats. The following are my favorites (in order) – cottontail distress, jackrabbit distress, woodpecker distress.
• Learn how to scan while predator hunting, and never stop. Use the light to your advantage by using it as your camouflage without alerting the target.
  • A dimmable red hunting light that is well within their color blind range is key to illuminating the bobcat without alerting them.
  • It’s true that if the light is used properly, you can literally walk right up to a bobcat (within 30-40 yards) without alerting them.
  • I keep my bow stabilizer light on hand at all times in the event I have to be mobile while calling. It’s small enough to fit in my pocket, but has long range capabilities combined with desirable dimmable controls.
• Constantly scan for eyes, and be prepared to act fast on a committed bobcat.
  • Be wary as raccoons, fox, and coyotes are all likely to commit to the same calls you are using to attract bobcats at night.
• Use the wind to your advantage, position yourself downwind from the call to limit the senses a bobcat can use to expose you.
• Even though it’s nighttime – STILL USE A DECOY. Bobcats have great night vision and will still be able to see it. This is a great way to get them to commit to the call.
  • My personal favorite decoy is a Mojo Critter, or any furry mechanical toy that has a whipping tail on it.

Calling Bobcats During Daylight

Calling bobcats during daylight can be a tough task to accomplish. One could say they have severe commitment issues unless they are enticed really, really well. The best way to entice them? Well, a decoy… or something similar such as hanging turkey feathers from a limb.

I’ve tried both and a mechanical decoy is more enticing that feathers hanging, but either one is better than nothing.

Day Time Setup and Location

Bobcats are more than likely not going to come out of cover during the day like they would at night, so the key to your day time setup is to be near areas of cover and constantly scan the brush or wooded area looking for a feline sitting on the edge of cover.

It will be your job to spot them camouflaged in cover before they lose interest and leave.

How to Call Bobcats During the Day

• Similar to nighttime calling, the same types of calls apply – go with what is local to the area in terms of rabbits and birds, ideal calls are: cottontail distress, jackrabbit distress, and woodpecker distress.
  • Be prepared to see fox and coyotes, as they are more likely to commit before a bobcat will. Raccoons are common at night but less likely to come out during the day.
• Anything can happen, but plan on the bobcat coming in slow and making frequent stops. Keep your eyes peeled, but most bobcats won’t come into sight until the 20 minute mark and may not come until the hour mark.
  • Be confident in your scouting and don’t leave too soon.
  • Duration of stands are much longer than coyote stands, but when moving from one stand to the next, should move at a greater distance. We typically move at least half a mile from previous calling location.
• Decoys are extremely important to keeping the bobcats attention. Never stop calling, minimize your movements, and make your shot count. A spooked bobcat is tough to call back in no matter what your buddy says.
• Be prepared to discharge when you are capable of taking the shot. Don’t wait too long. Despite a running call and action-packed decoy, bobcats can still lose interest very easily.
• Be prepared for the unexpected: there are a few times where we’ve called in a dry creek bed that was not pressured and happened to be a bobcat’s territory. Within seconds of starting our call, the bobcat came sprinting down the creek bottom letting out the loudest and most unique sound I’ve ever heard, repeating it over and over. Come to find out it’s known as the bobcat bark.
  • A bobcat’s bark is typically their way of chasing another animal from its home territory. It’s a protective instinct, so if you hear it, be ready as you’ve got a cat coming quick.

Best States for Calling in Bobcats

Most states have bobcats, but some are more abundant than others. We are located in Texas, where there is no season for bobcats, but many states do have a season for taking these critters. Texas is home to some of the biggest bobcats in the nation, and they’ve become a nuisance for farmers as they favor feeding on young or injured livestock.

Here are our top 5 best states for calling in bobcats:

1. Texas
2. Kansas
3. Missouri
4. Nevada
5. Oklahoma

Fun fact: Generally speaking, approximately 2/3 of all bobcat harvests come from trappers who are called to the area by farmers. The remaining 1/3 of harvests are from hunters.

Closing Remarks

Over the years, I’ve seen a bobcat react in just about every manner you can imagine. Each bobcat has it’s own personality and characteristics just like we hunters and our pets do, but I can say that in general terms they are going to come in slow to a call with frequent stops.

They rarely do anything that would make them stick out of the brush, so it’s extremely important for you to closely monitor the area and be aware of change, movement, and the outline of their body.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve come close to giving up on calling in a bobcat and I do one last scan through brush and end up picking out a bobcat sitting still, patiently watching my decoy.

Thanks for reading along. I hope I am able to help another hunter learn the bobcat calling game and become a better predator hunter like those who helped me.

If you are looking for a unique and thrilling hunting adventure, stalking javelina is unlike anything you have experienced before. These small but ferocious animals have developed a devoted fan base of hunters who dedicate themselves to the observation and hunting of these southwestern mammals.

The key to a successful javelina hunt is knowing as much about your prey as possible. Here is our comprehensive guide to everything you need to know about the javelina.

What Is a Javelina?

The javelina resembles a wild pig and is one of three species of peccary, which is defined as a social, pig-like animal.

They have short, coarse, brindled hair that lightens around the neck, giving the appearance of a collar. They have a snout and small eyes, similar to a pig, and they walk on their front two digits. However, unlike a pig or wild boar whose tusks are curved, the javelina’s tusks are straight, having evolved for crushing fibrous material, seeds, and roots.

Habitat

There are only three species of peccaries in the world. The javelina’s Latin name is Tayassu tajacu, and its cousins are the white-lipped peccary, which lives in Southern Mexico to Northern South America, and the Chacoan peccary that lives in Bolivia, Argentina, and Paraguay.

If you’re wondering where to shoot for javelina, they thrive in rocky, arid climes like the desert of the southwestern United States in parts of Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico. They prefer areas such as the saguaro desert that offer ample supplies of prickly pears and mesquite. You can also find herds close to desert watering holes and other permanent water sources.

As they are unable to cool down through evaporation like other animals, they tend to remain in shady areas such as under cliffs and caves during the hottest parts of the day and venture out to forage when it is cooler.

Habits

Rapacious omnivores, javelinas will eat almost anything they come across. Their primary food sources are desert plants, but, on occasion, they’ll eat grubs, birds’ eggs, bugs, and reptiles like lizards.

Their favorite plants to munch on include sotol, prickly pear, agave, some types of tubers, and acorns from the scrub oak.

Although they aren’t great for eating, the larger predators like black bears, mountain lions, and jaguars all feast on javelinas from time to time. Bobcat, coyote, and other smaller predators avoid the javelina, perhaps because of the threat of its razor-sharp tusks and unshakeable fighting acumen.

Javelinas are incredibly social animals and stay in groups almost all of the time. This means, when you’re out hunting javelinas, if you see one, there are sure to be more somewhere close by.

Physiology

Javelinas resemble pigs in that they have stout bodies, a snout, bristly hair, and a jutting underbite on their bullet-shaped heads. Although they closely resemble the family of pig and boar, they are very distant cousins, as the genetic split between these species occurred over 30 million years ago.

Mature javelinas weigh between 40 and 60 pounds, and they sport brownish-gray bristles with a highlighted, prominent collar between their shoulders.

They have scent glands, as one of their keenest senses is their sense of smell. This particular physiological detail can help you find javelina, as the musky smell they use to communicate and mark their territories is quite pungent and leaves a trail.

They have incredibly poor eyesight compared to their super sense of smell. Because of this, javelinas often feed at dusk in the thick brush where they don’t need good vision to find sustenance.

How to Find a Javelina

Some clues indicating the presence of prey while you’re hunting javelinas are signs of feeding. You’ll see chewed-up prickly pear paddles, shredded agave and sotol, and cow patties that have been rooted. You’ll also see turned-up ground where the javelinas have snuffled through the first layer of undergrowth.

Under rocky overhangs, in tucked-away places in the shade and out of the desert sun, you’ll often find evidence of javelinas bedding down. You can also sniff them out, as their powerful musk glands, located at both their hind ends and heads, exude a pungent, telltale olfactory clue.

How to Stalk a Javelina

The primary tactic of javelina hunting is to spot them, and then stalk them. Glassing, or using your binoculars to spot your prey, should be your focus when hunting javelinas. Set up optics from a high vantage point for the best view and for effective concealment. They camouflage well against the backdrop of the desert, and it may take a while for you to spot a group.

Once you find a group of javelinas, your main tactic should be to play to the wind. Javelinas rely on their sense of smell, so you have to mask your own scent as much as possible so they don’t get wind of your presence.

Once you get within 50 yards of the javelinas, take into account their hearing and eyesight. Although not the strongest of their senses, javelinas can still see and hear you. If you are spotted, freeze for a few minutes. Javelinas have very short attention spans. They will usually forget about you if you are completely still for a while.

How to Bag a Javelina

Javelinas respond with vigor to a distress call of another javelina. Being social animals, they react with a speed and ferocity unmatched by other big game. A call blown outside of 75 yards might not elicit much of a response—but call within range of the bristly creatures, and they’ll come running.

When you’re lining up a shot at individual javelina, remember that their vitals are small, so you must be very accurate to make an ethical shot. Sometimes, a bullet will go through one javelina and hit the one behind it as well.

These aren’t huge animals, but they are some of the fiercest prey animals many hunters have come up against. Match your weapon to your prey and come in close to set up the perfect shot.

Once you’ve bagged javelina, take the time to remove its scent glands, both fore and aft. If left untouched, the scent glands can flavor the meat and hide, leaving a foul taste and odor.

If you want to eat your trophy, you will have to dress the animal in the field to get rid of those scent glands. Once this is accomplished, treat the javelina much like a boar in butchering and cooking techniques. Slow roasted javelina or a javelina stew both make the most of this fierce desert animal.

Although on the smaller side, javelinas are tough little beasts that offer a lot of challenges when spotting them, stalking them, and bagging them. They have a tenacious spirit and razor-sharp tusks that make any hunters’ heart rate speed up.