Advances in fishing electronics have been moving forward by leaps and bounds in the past few decades. Keeping up with technological innovations is a challenge, even for a techno-junkie such as myself. Sonar, imaging, and GPS have given anglers unparalleled access to what is going on below the surface of the water. However, a decade spent selling fish finders in the retail business taught me a few things. One, many anglers struggle with understanding the different features of modern fishing electronics. Secondly, many anglers are paying for features they simply don’t need or use. If you are buying your first fish finder or looking to upgrade here is a quick course on the features you might look for.

How It Works: Sonar

The majority of anglers rely on sonar. Whether you spend the majority of your time trolling open water or hovering over structure you will find sonar useful. Sonar is useful for identifying your depth, locating fish quickly, identifying the depth of fish, and can provide information on the types of bottom substrate beneath your watercraft. Sonar works by generating a signal that travels outward from your transducer in a cone shape. The signal reflects off surfaces and travels back to the transducer. Your fish finder then translates those reflections into a visual representation. Harder surfaces, such as rock, will reflect more signals than soft surfaces, such as vegetation. The hardness of a surface reflection is often represented by a color gradient that you determine on your fish finder’s settings. Using the color and shape of the return an angler can interpret what the benthic or bottom structure of the lake or river they are fishing looks like. Sonar signals bounce strongly off of air which is why fish with large air bladders show up extremely well on fish finders.

Most modern fish finders broadcast in alternating low and high frequencies. Lower frequencies produce a narrower cone that better penetrates deeper water whereas higher frequencies produce a wider cone that is better at resolving fish and structure in shallow water. Many fish finders will automatically use the best frequency depending on your depth or will cycle back and forth to generate the best signal. However, anglers can select particular frequencies that best suit their fishery and may even opt to buy transducers specific to the types of fishing they do. However, sonar does have several weaknesses. First, due to the narrowness of the signal cone, it is very poor at detecting fish shallow and under your watercraft. Secondly, because it is compressing a three-dimensional cone into a single dimension it is very difficult to separate fish from structure or multiple fish or bait fish from each other. Lastly, learning to interpret sonar output takes time and can be especially challenging for color-blind individuals.

How It Works: Down and Side Imaging

For those anglers that fish structure, whether that be brush piles, weed beds, or rocky reefs, you will find imaging useful. Imaging fills the gaps in sonar’s weaknesses. Unlike sonar, imaging is generated by your transducer generating a razor-thin high-frequency signal. These imaging frequencies can be directed downward, for down imaging, or out to the side, for side imaging. This data is then used to generate detailed and lifelike images of the structure below or off to the side of your watercraft. Unlike sonar images which can be very nebulous and confusing, especially around layered structure, imaging results are much easier to interpret. A tree looks like a tree and rocks look like rocks and so on. Additionally, fish can be separated from structure much more easily.

Imaging uses a high frequency and thus has limitations in deep water applications. In general, I find it most useful down or out to 100’. If you spend a lot of time targeting structure directly under your boat then you will find down imaging especially useful. Side imaging is useful in quickly locating structure off to the side of your watercraft and measured distances on your fish finder unit will allow you to cast at those targets. I’ve also found side imaging to be helpful in locating schools of suspended fish off to the sides of the kayak when trolling in open water.

How It Works: GPS-Enabled Fish Finders

GPS-enabled fish finders provide a wealth of information to any angler. Coupled with bathymetric depth maps GPS allows you to identify and navigate to potential fish-holding areas. Waypoints and tracks of your movements can be saved for future reference as well. Additionally, many fish finders like the Humminbird Helix have advanced features such as Autochart Live that allow anglers to build custom detailed maps of their local body of water. For anglers that troll GPS units provide real-time troll speeds. Finally, GPS can assist in safe navigation to and from your favorite fishing spots.

Advanced Fish Finder Features to Look For

In just the past few years, even more advanced fish-finding features have emerged. These include Humminbird’s 360 imaging which gives you complete imaging all around the watercraft. Additionally, live sonar and live imaging are now available on many fish finders. Live sonar/imaging gives you real-time direction target separation and you can watch fish chase your lure or bait and in some instances you can identify fish species by shape. These advanced features require specialized transducers and cost more but when used correctly can help put more fish in the boat.

After being diagnosed with cancer in 1988, Forrest Fenn, a retired Air Force Pilot and gallery owner, was inspired to hide a treasure chest in the Rocky Mountains of the United States. It is to this treasure chest that’s filled, supposedly, with jewels and gold, that this poem leads. Fenn intended for the treasure to inspire a public search. He claims that the treasure is hidden in a medieval bronze box featuring relief scenes of knights and maidens with flowers.

The search is detailed in a memoir he self-published in 2010 titled, The Thrill of the Chase: A Memoir. In it, Fenn tells stories from his life which supposedly also contain clues to the location of the gold. It’s in the chapter “Gold and More” that this poem is found. In the six stanzas of this poem, there are supposedly nine clues that together will lead a searcher to the buried treasure.

The story, book, and poem have inspired a search for the treasure across four states through which the Rocky Mountains reach. Since the book was published and Fenn began speaking about the treasure, five people have died while searching for it. Additionally, there are have several controversies related to the treasure. These include arrests for digging in state parks and lawsuits against Forrest Fenn.

Structure of the Forrest Fenn’s Treasure Poem

The Treasure Poem by Forrest Fenn is a six stanza poem that follows a simple rhyme scheme. This is something that should be taken into consideration when unpacking what might be a beneficial clue what might simply be a rhyming word. There are in total, supposedly, nine clues hidden within the six stanzas. This can be thought of in several different ways. First, that each sforrentence is a clue. There are a total of nine sentences in the poem but some seem to be much more important than others.

The first stanza is a single sentence and is supposedly one of the least important stanzas of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure Poem. The second speaks of “warm waters” a “canyon” and walking. In the third sentence, Fenn discusses the “Home of Brown” which is undoubtedly important. Then the fourth sentence mentions words like “Meek” and “loads” which are likely part of a clue.

The fifth sentence is about the blaze and how fast one must look for the treasure. The six mentions the unusual word “trove”. In the eighth Fenn speaks of listening closely to his words and it being “worth the cold”. Then, in the final sentence, he uses the word “brave” and says that you have to be “in the wood”.

Alternatively, one might consider the nine clues as going from start to finish, beginning with the word “Begin” in the second stanza. This leads one to the canyon down that’s too far to walk. Then, onto the home of brown and no place for the meek. Next, there is the end which is coming closer and the creek up which one can’t go with a paddle. Then there are the waters, the heavy loads and the blaze. Finally, the ninth clue is to move quickly down.

Analysis of the Forrest Fenn’s Treasure Poem

Stanza One

As I have gone alone in there

And with my treasures bold,

I can keep my secret where,

And hint of riches new and old.

In the first stanza of the Forrest Fenn’s Treasure Poem, the speaker, who is Forrest Fenn, begins by describing his treasure and the initial process of hiding it. The first stanza is commonly believed to be less important than the second or third, but its existence at all makes it necessary to consider. These lines might also contain some hint as to which “warm waters,” mentioned in the second stanza, one should start at.

The first line references travelling somewhere alone. Fenn was supposedly alone when he buried the treasure and perhaps he was thinking while writing that the person who found his treasure would be too. Or, maybe the word is hinting at the location being a lonely one. It could be a solitary natural element like a peak or outcropping.

He speaks in the second line of this being a “bold” act, or of his treasures as a “bold” thing to possess or find. It could be that the steps he took to hid it were “bold,” perhaps there was something risky about what he did, despite his age or due to it. The word “bold” might also refer to the name of an element of the landscape.

The third line is very vague, as is the fourth. It reads very much like a line added to rhyme with “there” at the end of the first line. The “riches” are spoken of as “new and old” in the fourth line. Again, very vague. There is not much to go on here. Perhaps there is some “old” yet still valuable in the place where he hid the treasure. Some have drawn connections between this line and Fenn’s past as an acquirer, and some would say, thief, of Native American art and artifacts.

Stanza Two

Begin it where warm waters halt

And take it in the canyon down,

Not far, but too far to walk.

Put in below the home of Brown.

Fenn has hinted at the fact that searchers should begin with the phrase “Begin it”. It is the first clue in the poem. This is why the first stanza is often ignored. The first phrase alludes to a place where “warm water’s halt”. This is often taken to mean a hot spring, maybe the last in a series or the last place where one can find warm waters before descending down into a canyon.

Water is one of the most important images in this poem, made even more so by Fenn’s assertion that the treasure is “wet”. Searchers are meant to take the canyon down, maybe by boat or car as it is “too far to walk”. But, it isn’t that far. It is important to keep in mind Fenn’s age when he hid the treasure. It wouldn’t have been possible for him to hike tens of miles into the backcountry.

One of the most interesting hints in the poem, “below the home of Brown” is in the fourth stanza. Could this be a real home of someone named Brown? A building that looks brown? The home of something that is brown? Forrest Fenn is quoted as saying that the “brown” clue is one of the most important. If one can decipher what it is referring to, the treasure is within reach.

As with the other stanzas, connections can be made with both locations and names. For example, canyons like “Downtown Canyon or “south Canyon” have been mentioned in regards to the second line. The word “Brown” has spawned the consideration of places like Brown Mountain Campground and Browns Canyon National Monument in Colorado. The former is connected to one of the most promising locations, Kirwin, Wyoming.

Stanza Three

From there it’s no place for the meek,

The end is ever drawing nigh;

There’ll be no paddle up your creek,

Just heavy loads and water high.

The third stanza is also considered to be quite important. It alludes to something dangerous (perhaps) about the location. It is “no place for the meek”. But, this by no means is clear cut. It could refer to a place name or the name of a person like Joe Meek who was run off by Blackfoot Native Americans. This is one of the more promising connections in Yellowstone National Park. He wandered off and ended up discovering a hot spring. This connects back to the second stanza as it is the last hot spring at the base of Cinnabar (brown colour) Mountain. There are also connections to Sphinx, Montana and a specific creek that runs through lands that also relate to this stanza.

The next lines refer to “your creek,” another mystery that includes the searcher in the poem. A reader might also interpret these lines to refer to a waterfall. This makes sense with the last line of the stanza and the reference to “water high”. There is something about the creek that leads there that is difficult. There will be “no paddle up your creek”. Is it impossible to paddle up?

Stanza Four

If you’ve been wise and found the blaze,

Look quickly down, your quest to cease,

But tarry scant with marvel gaze,

Just take the chest and go in peace.

The fourth stanza of Forrest Fenn’s Treasure Poem alludes to the end of the quest. While travelling along this river “you” have to be looking for a blaze. This immediately connects to trail blazes but nothing is quite that simple or the treasure would already have been found. Fenn has alluded to the “blaze” as something solid that one can’t remove. It is something permanent that one would be unable to tamper with. Other clues from Fenn include its colour. He has stated that it’s white, such as a rock or tree, something impossible to carry away. There might be other connections to events, place names, and people.

Once you find that place then you have to quickly look down and it’ll be there, the quest will be over. It is below the surface of the water and if you waste time you won’t be able to grab it or see it.

This stanza provides what appears to be the last most important clues of the poem. As with the other sections, these lines would appear less vague and mysterious if one were in the right location.

Stanza Five

So why is it that I must go

And leave my trove for all to seek?

The answers I already know,

I’ve done it tired, and now I’m weak.

Fenn asks a question in the first lines of this stanza. The word “trove” sticks out as an alternative to treasure. As usual, the word “trove” might relate to a place name or a person. It could also speak to the nature of the hiding place.

The last line “I’ve done it tired and now I’m weak” might contain some clue as to the location of the hiding place. It could reference the effort it took for him to get there and get back or the words “tired” and “weak” might have an alternative meaning entirely.

Stanza Six

So hear me all and listen good,

Your effort will be worth the cold.

If you are brave and in the wood

I give you title to the gold.

The sixth stanza acts as a conclusion to the previous five but that doesn’t mean that it should be disregarded. The first lines draw the reader’s attention, perhaps for the last clue. There are also place names that are connected to listening and hearing.

In the second line, he refers to the “cold”. This is most obviously related, (possibly), to the cold of the water one has to reach into to get the gold. The last lines speak of the woods and of bravery. Some believe the word “brave” might relate to a Native American brave rather than to the act of bravery. The word “wood” is also interesting. It could refer to a river of that name.

Possible Locations Related to Fenn’s Treasure, from Poetry Experts

We asked three of our writers, who have interesting takes, following the analysis, where they think Forrest Fenn’s treasure is:

• Emma (poetry expert and author to this analysis)
• LJ (poetry expert and actor who portrayed a pirate, and therefore knows a bit about treasure)
• Jack’s thoughts on where the (poetry expert on Poem Analysis):

Forrest Fenn Treasure Found

On the 6th June, according to Forrest Fenn’s official website, Forrest Fenn’s treasure had finally been found.

Forrest Fenn stated:

It was under a canopy of stars in the lush, forested vegetation of the Rocky Mountains and had not moved from the spot where I hid it more than 10 years ago. I do not know the person who found it, but the poem in my book led him to the precise spot. I congratulate the thousands of people who participated in the search and hope they will continue to be drawn by the promise of other discoveries. So the search is over.

Did Poem Analysis Contribute to the Treasure being found?

At Poem Analysis, we are over the moon one lucky explorer has finally found Forrest Fenn’s treasure. However, it did make us wonder…

Did we help the explorer find the treasure?

Here’s what we know so far:

• We have a dedicated team of poetry experts, that have analyzed over 4,480 from 1106 different poets. We like to think our team knows a thing or two about poetry!
  • Three members of our team, taking into consideration their poetry expertise and experience, made educational guesses as to where the treasure was located.
• We published this article on the 15th May 2020, 22 days before Forrest Fenn releases news of the treasure being found.
• As soon as we published our article, we ranked top spot for some crucial search phrases relating to the poem.
  • “forrest fenn poem analysis”
  • “forrest fenn poem meaning”
  • “forrest fenn poem deciphered”

We cannot confirm definitively that our article helped find the treasure. However, putting the crosses together, that we analyze thousands of poems, contributed with three objective guesses from our team where the treasure was, ranked highly for people to see the article, and the treasure was found a mere 22 days later, when it had not been found for over 10 years, it could suggest our analysis helped!

An important point to remember is that Forrest Fenn’s treasure map gave people the opportunity to explore the wilderness. Reconnect with nature and have an adventure with friends and family. Although there was a treasure that was found, it does question, ‘what is the real treasure?’ Is it materialistic things such as the actual treasure, or is it the journey?

Congratulations to whoever found the treasure – @Forrest Fenn, we are ready with your next challenge!

Today I’m going to show you the best light for coyote hunting on the market today.

In fact:

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

The best part?

I’ve sorted them by use. So whether you’re on a budget or looking for the most premium light, you’ll find it here.

Let’s get started!

The 4 Best Light for Coyote Hunting

If you’re pressed on time, here’s a quick list of the best coyote hunting lights:

1. Orion M30C: Best Coyote Hunting Light
2. Ulako Zoomable Green Light: Best for the Budget
3. Wicked Lights W403IC RED: Best Red Coyote Light
4. Predator Tactics Coyote Reaper: Best for Predator Hunting

1. Orion M30C: Best Coyote Hunting Light

The Orion M30C is one of the best lights for coyote hunting on the market today.

Orion is one brand that has never disappointed me, so I was very excited to try this light!

How did it measure up to their other products?

Let’s find out.

Build

The Orion M30C is available in either red or green light. It offers 100% pure light, with no filtering at all.

It’s constructed with aviation-grade aluminum and is scratch and impact-resistant. It’s very durable, waterproof, and heat/cold resistant.

The M30C is made with 3 Cree XP-E2 LED lights, with three different brightness levels including 700 lumens, 400 lumens, and 75 lumens.

This is the brightest hunting light I’ve ever used. I’ve had many good experiences using Orion’s hunting gear, and this light was no different. It’s bright, clear in any environment, and easily portable.

To set the brightness, you turn the bezel at the top of the light. It’s a bit awkward to reach up and turn at first, but it’s easy to get used to and remembers your last brightness setting, even after you turn it off and back on again.

If you purchase the whole light kit, it comes with an AC and car power adapter, two high-quality batteries, and all the mounting gear you could need.

The brightness level you use determines how long you can expect the battery to last. At 75 lumens (the lowest brightness setting), it’ll last 22 hours. At 400 lumens, expect 4.5 hours of use. And at the highest setting of 700 lumens, it’ll last 1.8 hours.

The batteries are rechargeable up to 500 times, and since it comes with a car charger, it’s easy to charge no matter where you are. Plus, you don’t have to worry about overcharging, because it’ll automatically stop once the battery is full.

Use

Orion claims you can see up to 377 yards with this light, but I’ve seen the reflection of eyes from 500+ yards away!

I’d say it takes until you’re around 200 yards away before you can get a good shot, which is still incredibly far.

Coyotes never notice this light. Even from 5 yards away, on the brightest setting, they don’t suspect a thing.

The M30C comes with a tactical mount and all the attachments you need to mount it on virtually any gun’s scope, rail, or barrel.

One of the only downsides of this light is that the beam is not adjustable. It’s not a huge problem, just something that takes a little getting used to.

On some guns, the head may be a bit too large for the barrel connection piece. Again, not a huge issue, it might just rub against the barrel.

Size

This light is relatively small and compact.

The head is 2.5” in diameter, and the tail is 1”. Overall, it’s 6” long.

It’s also pretty lightweight, weighing only 7.6 oz. This is ideal, as it won’t add a lot of weight to your gun.

Price

You can choose to purchase the entire kit, including two batteries; the chargers; and the mounts, or you can purchase just the light.

The kit is available for around $170, while the light itself goes for about $120. In my opinion, it’s worth the extra $50 for the whole kit!

This is a light that’s absolutely worth the money you’ll spend. It’s guaranteed to be one of the best varmint hunting lights you’ll ever use.

Is the Orion M30C Worth it?

If you’re a seasoned coyote hunter, you know that lights are an indispensable part of any hunting trip.

Like turkey hunters need turkey calls, coyote hunters need coyote lights.

Coyotes are nocturnal animals, so you need the right equipment to be able to see through the pitch-black of night.

If you’re a newbie coyote hunter looking for the perfect accessories, the Orion M30C is the best, brightest light I’ve ever owned. It makes coyote hunting completely effortless.

2. Ulako Zoomable Green Light: Best for the Budget

If you’re looking for an affordable hunting light, look no further than the Ulako Zoomable Green Light.

Every nighttime hunter needs a light, and green lights are great because you can see your game, but your game can’t see you.

Many top hunting lights retail for $100+, but the Ulako will run you less than $30!

Does the company sacrifice quality in their pursuit of an affordable green light?

Let’s find out.

Build

The Ulako Green Light is made with a convex lens, powered by an included rechargeable battery. In a pinch, it’ll also run on 3 AAA batteries.

It’s made of very durable aluminum alloy, and it’s both waterproof and shockproof. I’ve had mine for over a year, hunted in just about every environmental condition you can imagine (sometimes multiple times per week!), and never had a single issue with it.

The Ulako also features dual switches. The tactical on/off switch is located on the tail cap, and the toggle pressure, momentary on-switch is located near the pressure pad. The dual switches give the user versatility and offer easy operation.

Overall, it’s a very simple yet rugged green light. The bright green light gives you long-distance visibility without alerting game to your presence.

Use

Ulako claims this light can extend to a maximum distance of 300 meters. In my experience, this seems to be true. However, you get the best visibility up to about 150 meters.

It projects a crisp, bright, and steady beam at long and short distances. Visibility is great, even in fog and rain. You can easily get a clean shot at any nocturnal pests, big or small, and they won’t be spooked by the green light.

One great thing about this light is that the zoom is adjustable. With the zoom fully extended, you get a small, concentrated, square-shaped beam. When you slide the focus inward, it changes to a less concentrated, medium to large, round beam.

The zoom is smooth, precise, and easy to adjust.

The battery is specifically designed for high-powered hunting flashlights, and you can expect a run time of 4+ hours on a full charge. The charging indicator light changes from red to green once the battery is fully charged, so there’s no need to worry about over or undercharging.

The Ulako fits tubes sized 25-30mm and mounts/unmounts easily.

Size

At just 14.4 oz, this is a relatively lightweight light that’ll fit nicely on any gun without weighing it down.

It’s 5.3” long (6’3” when fully extended) and 1.4” wide.

Price

The entire Zoomable Green Light kit is available for just $25.95.

This kit includes the light, quick release mount, Picatinny mount, pressure switch, rechargeable battery, and charger.

The rechargeable battery is especially useful, especially if you regularly hunt at night. It’ll save you countless pennies on replacement battery after replacement battery.

You may be wary of this light because its price is almost too good to be true! However, you can be assured that Ulako provides great quality at an even better price.

Is the Ulako Zoomable Green Light Worth it?

The Ulako Zoomable Green Light is the best option for the money by far.

Ulako offers a very dependable light that lets you get the best shot in the worst conditions.

It’s great for newbie nighttime hunters, as it functions simply and is very easy to operate.

If you’re a hunter on a budget searching for predator hunting lights reviews online, you might be discouraged by the high price of a lot of the top options. However, this is a fantastic light that won’t break the bank.

I would recommend it to any nighttime hunter who needs a good, affordable green light.

3. Wicked Lights W403IC RED: Best Red Coyote Light

The Wicked Lights W403IC RED is one of the best red coyote hunting lights available.

It’s purpose-built, durably engineered, and incredibly bright.

How does the W403IC measure up to competitors?

Let’s find out!

Build

The W403IC is precision-made with T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, with type III hard anodization. The entire assembly is produced by a certified LED manufacturer, ensuring consistent color and quality.

It comes with the Intensity Control Rheostat tail cap, which doubles as a push on/off switch. This allows you to set the light intensity level before you even turn the light on, and gives you infinite control of the brightness in order to spook fewer animals.

The zoom focus uses Wicked Lights’ Scan & Kill technology. While many other lights have a series of grooves, forcing the user to turn the knob numerous times to change the focus from flood to zoom, the W403IC has a single, deep groove for quick adjustments.

It features a built-in halo shield, eliminating any possibility of light spills, and has a taller lens than other similar lights for greater magnification.

The fully adjustable mounting hardware and Picatinny scope mount fits 1” and 30mm tubes. The light is o-ring sealed for water resistance, and it’s operable in temperatures ranging from -30 – 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Use

Wicked Lights claims you can get 400 yards of visibility with this light. From what I’ve seen, this seems to be accurate! I’ve even seen eyes reflecting from 500+ yards away. You can expect to get a good shot from about 300 yards.

This light is very bright, durable, and operates as advertised. My battery lasts an average of 2.5 hours on a full charge, but this depends on the level of intensity you choose to use.

The Intensity Control tail cap is one of the best features of this light. You can set it low at first, then gradually brighten it as you need. This helps condition the animal to the light, as they won’t notice a low light that gradually gets brighter as much as a sudden bright light!

You adjust the zoom focus with a bezel, which allows you to easily and quickly switch from spot to flood with one simple twist.

Another great feature is the two-piece, adjustable mount design. You can quickly attach the light to your gun and zero in on your target.

Size

At the scope mount, the body diameter is 1”. Overall, the light is 7.28” long when not extended, and 7.72” when fully extended.

With the battery installed, it’s a relatively lightweight 15.6 oz.

Price

The entire W403IC kit MSRPs for $189.95.

This includes the light, 2-position battery charger with AC/DC adapters, 2 Lithium-ion batteries, the adjustable windage and elevation mount kit, and a plastic case.

For added peace of mind, this price includes a three-year limited warranty on the light itself and a one-year limited warranty on the accessories.

Is the Wicked Lights W403IC Worth it?

The Wicked Lights W403IC RED light is one of the brightest, best hunting lights on the market. It’s a must-have for anyone who regularly goes hunting at night.

Specifically designed to target coyotes; hogs; foxes; and even smaller game, including raccoons, this light will not let you down.

4. Predator Tactics Coyote Reaper: Best for Predator Hunting

The Predator Tactics Coyote Reaper XXL is the best predator hunting light of its kind.

The beam throw is unmatched and the adjustable focus gives you a clear picture, no matter how zoomed in you are!

How does it compare to similar lights?

Let’s find out!

Build

The Coyote Reaper is made with aluminum alloy and comes in a sleek, matte black finish. It’s waterproof and functional in temperatures down to -20 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can use it in a variety of environmental conditions.

It runs on a single rechargeable battery, but Predator Tactics also sells a battery extension tube that holds two batteries for a longer runtime. The battery extension tube does add a little weight, so keep that in mind if you’re considering adding one.

For added concealment, the Coyote Reaper includes a rubber halo shield.

One downside of this light is that the included universal mount is a bit difficult to adjust. I’d recommend considering a Predator Tactics windage elevation adjustable rail mount, which is easy to install and lets you aim much more easily.

Overall, the Coyote Reaper is a solid choice. Predator Tactics designs and manufactures high-quality hunting gear, and this light is no exception.

Use

Predator Tactics claims that the Coyote Reaper gives up to 700 yards of beam throw. Speaking from personal experience, this light seems to work precisely as advertised.

I haven’t tried using it from exactly 700 yards yet, but from 500+ yards, you can easily see and identify different animals in pitch-black conditions. The picture is very clear, regardless of the zoom settings.

The Coyote Reaper comes with an adjustable focus, good for varying range. The light quality is great, and it’s bright enough to zoom in without any pixelation or graininess.

Controlling the focus is a bit difficult to understand at first, so it’s best to become familiar with the controls before using it for any serious hunting.

The intensity control dial on the tail cap doubles as a remote on/off switch and can be easily and silently controlled without ever moving your hands from a shooting position.

However, it’s also easy to bump the switch and turn the light on accidentally – and you won’t notice, since it’s in IR, until you go to turn it on and see you have a dead battery!

To prevent this, I always make sure to just loosen the tail cap one extra turn.

The average battery runtime can vary greatly based on the brightness you use. In fact, I’ve hunted two nights in a row on one battery charge before!

Overall, I’d say the average total runtime is around 4 hours.

Size

The Coyote Reaper is 8.5” long.

It’s relatively lightweight, weighing around 17 oz, so you don’t have to worry about it weighing you down while you’re running through the woods!

Price

The entire XXL Rifle kit sells for $189.95. It includes green and red LED lights, a universal scope mount to attach it to a rifle scope or Picatinny rail, a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery, a charger, and a plastic carry case.

It’s not a cheap light, but it’s a pretty great value for one of the best predator hunting lights.

Even better, this price includes a lifetime light shell warranty; two-year LED bulb module and tail cap circuitry warranty; one-year remote switch, mount, and charger warranty; and a 30-day battery warranty!

Is the Coyote Reaper Worth it?

The Predator Tactics Coyote Reaper XXL is one of the best performing lights of its kind.

It’s ideal for nighttime predator, hog, and coyote hunting, helping you see better for more positive target acquisition.

I would 100% recommend this light to any nighttime hunter.

Now It’s Your Turn

I hope you enjoyed my best light for coyote hunting guide.

So as a recap:

If you’re looking for the best coyote hunting light, get the Orion M30C.

If you’re on a budget, I’d recommend getting the Ulako Zoomable Green Light. It’s affordable and dependable.

The Wicked Lights W403IC RED is the best red coyote light. It is durable and incredibly bright.

Lastly, if you’re looking for the best for predator hunting, then the Predator Tactics Coyote Reaper is what you are looking for.

Now I want to turn it over to you:

Which hunting light will you pick?

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Unleash the Power: Discover the Most Powerful Air Rifle for Unmatched Precision and Performance. Experience unrivaled shooting capabilities with our cutting-edge air rifle, engineered to deliver exceptional power, accuracy, and range. Elevate your shooting experience to new heights with the ultimate choice of enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The most powerful air rifle

The AEA Zeus in.72 caliber is currently the most powerful air rifle available. With a power output of up to 1500 ft-lbs, this traditionally styled big-bore air rifle is designed for hunting large game. The solid wood and metal construction of the Zeus helps to dampen recoil, making it a reliable and accurate option for taking down massive quarry like boar or deer.

Another contender for the title of most powerful air rifle is the Umarex Hammer. This.50 caliber rifle utilizes proprietary technology to generate over 700 ft-lbs of energy at the muzzle. With its lightweight cocking action and two-shot shuttle magazine, the Hammer offers fast follow-up shots when needed, making it an effective tool for hunting hogs or other large game.

The FX Impact air rifle is a versatile option that performs well for both small-game and predator hunting. Its bullpup design features a rugged and lightweight frame with an adjustable stock. The modular design allows shooters to easily swap out barrels, magazines, and probes, optimizing the gun for different types of hunting scenarios.

Hatsan Airguns offers the Piledriver in multiple caliber options, including their newest addition in.62 caliber. Generating over 750 ft-lbs of energy with a 650-grain hollow point slug, this bullpup configuration delivers power and accuracy in a more compact package.

The AirForce Texan series has also earned its place among the most powerful air rifles. Available in several calibers including.257,.308,.357,.457, and.50, these rifles offer adjustable customization options and reliable performance for taking down North American big game.

Airguns of Arizona’s Bushbuck bolt action sporter style rifle is another worthy contender. With its laminate stock and adjustable cheekpiece, this.452 caliber rifle is solidly built and offers a sleek design. The Bushbuck generates over 600 ft-lbs of energy and is a capable choice for non-dangerous game hunting.

In conclusion, the most powerful air rifle offers a combination of accuracy and high velocity, making it ideal for various applications such as hunting and target shooting. With advanced technology and robust construction, these rifles provide enhanced performance while ensuring safety measures are in place. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or a beginner, choosing the right air rifle will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences.

With big bulls standing nearly 7 feet tall and weighing up to 1,600 pounds, moose are massive animals. They’re technically the largest species in the deer family, prized as trophies for their impressive antlers, second only to how delicious their wild game meat is. An even bigger bragging right for a moose hunter: bagging a record-breaking moose.

While we have no way of knowing that is truly the biggest moose ever, we can turn to the Safari Club International record books to see what is the biggest moose that’s ever been downed in North America. But first, a few fun facts on how big moose truly are.

How Big Can a Moose Get?

The size of a moose depends both on its sex and what subspecies it is. Male bull moose are almost always larger than cow moose, but even a small female can weigh over 800 pounds.

The Shiras moose, located in the Rocky Mountains and Pacific Northwest, are the smallest of the moose subspecies, with adult males weighing up to 1,000 pounds. Still, this makes them the largest big game animal in the Rocky Mountains.

Conversely, the Alaska-Yukon moose (also known as the Alaska moose), found in the northwest reaches of North America, is the largest of the subspecies. Male Alaska bulls can weigh up to 1,600 pounds and stand 7 to 8 feet tall at the shoulders. With a massive rack of antlers added on top, these moose can tower over 10 feet tall.

Western Canada moose, also known as Western moose, and Eastern Canada moose, also known as Eastern moose, fall in between Shiras and Alaska moose in size, with Western moose typically being larger than Eastern.

Does Alaska Have the Biggest Moose?

As you might have guessed, yes, Alaska has the biggest moose—not only in North America, but in the world. That’s why the Alaska moose hunt is on the bucket list of many hunters. Alaska moose inhabit boreal forests and mixed deciduous forests throughout Alaska and western Yukon.

Is There Any Bigger Game Than a Moose in the United States?

The only animal larger than a moose in the United States is a bison. Bison can weigh 2,200 to 3,000 pounds, in comparison to a moose’s weight of 800 to 1,600 pounds. However, bison only have moose beat in terms of weight. They “only” stand about 6 feet at the shoulder, and are 8 feet long, making them shorter than moose all around.

Bison can be hunted in Utah, Wyoming, Arizona, Alaska, and Montana, but getting a tag and permit for a hunt is almost impossible. If you’re looking for the biggest game animal to hunt, moose is a more likely bet.

What Makes an SCI Record Moose Kill?

Safari Club International (SCI) recognizes records for four North American subspecies of moose: the Shiras moose, the Eastern Canada moose, the Western Canada moose, and the Alaska-Yukon moose.

To track records of the biggest moose kills, SCI ranks moose by their antler scores, rather than their weight. Using the SCI measuring system to score a moose, hunters must measure the length and widths of each “palm” on the antler (i.e., the big, flat area of a moose antler). SCI also scores the number and length of tines, the circumference of each main beam of the antler at the smallest place, and the greatest outside spread of the moose’s antlers.

All of the measurements are added together for the final score of the moose. The bigger the palm spread, and the more numerous and longer the tines, the better the animal scores.

Unlike the Boone and Crockett Club, which also tracks moose records, SCI doesn’t deduct the score for abnormal points of differences in antler symmetry. As a result, the SCI score is often significantly higher than the B&C score for the same animal.

Safari Club International Moose Records

1. SCI Shiras Moose Record

Though they are the smallest subspecies of moose in North America, Shiras Moose can still weigh up to 1,000 pounds. Shiras Moose live in Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Alberta, and British Columbia.

Jim Hall set the SCI record for Shiras moose in 2018 when he shot a massive bull near Republic, Washington. Hall had been applying for a moose tag for almost 30 years. He was in the last few days of moose season, after two months of unsuccessful hunting, when he took down the impressive animal.

The moose was estimated to weigh about 650 to 700 pounds and had a combined 242 inches on its antler measurements for a score of 504-7/8 inches. Hall beat the previous record by just 1-1/8 inch.

2. SCI Eastern Canada Moose Record

Eastern Canada moose live in Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York. Big bulls can weigh nearly 1,400 pounds.

Jeremy Boileau shot the current SCI record Eastern Canada moose with a rifle in Quebec, Canada in September of 2011.

Boileau’s behemoth moose scored an incredible 666-3/8 inches, which is more than 80 inches larger than the next biggest Eastern Canada moose and more than 175 inches bigger than the third-biggest moose in the record book! Not only did the moose have a massive outside spread of 56 inches, but it had a ridiculous 20 points on each antler, which is one of the reasons why it scored so high.

3. SCI Western Canada Moose Record

Western Canada moose live in British Columbia, Ontario, Yukon Territory, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Wisconsin, Minnesota, parts of North Dakota and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. With big bulls weighing nearly 1,500 pounds, they are the largest subspecies of moose found in the continental United States.

Doug Rehbein currently holds the SCI record for the Western Canada moose, for a bull he killed with the guidance of hunting guide Mark Boote of Jennings River Outfitters. Rehbein took the moose in October of 1998 in the renowned moose hunting grounds of the Cassiar Mountains of British Columbia.

This giant moose scored a remarkable 557 inches and had a 64-2/8 inch outside spread with 12 points on one antler with 10 on the other. Though the number of points may seem low for the score, this moose had absolutely massive T-2 and T-4 points, which helped boost it to the record books.

4. SCI Alaska-Yukon Moose Record

Alaska-Yukon moose, as the name implies, live in Alaska and the Yukon Territory of Canada. They’re the largest moose in North America, both in terms of body size and antler size.

The largest Alaska-Yukon Moose in the SCI record books, as well as the highest-scoring moose for all of North America, was taken by Debra Card near Cordova, Alaska with a rifle in September 1999. The bull weighed a ridiculous 1,800 pounds.

Not only is this the only moose on the list taken by a female hunter, but it’s also the biggest moose on record ever hunted in the U.S. Her moose had a whopping 74-2/8 inches spread with 19 points on one side and 20 on the other. It scored an extraordinary 731-1/8 inches.

To put in perspective how gigantic this moose was, it measured 225 inches larger—that’s 68 percent!—than the largest Shiras Moose in the record books.

Other Biggest Moose Harvest: The 1897 Moose

As you now know, SCI lists its record moose by antler size. And while a massive rack is incredibly impressive, what about the largest moose every taken by weight?

That record goes to a monster of a moose taken in September 1897. Weighing 1,808 pounds and standing 7.6 feet at the shoulder, the moose was taken in the Yukon and made it into the Guinness Book of World Records. Over a hundred years have passed and still, no one has touched that record.

But, that doesn’t mean there aren’t still plenty of monstrous bull moose out there to be taken. Start planning your United States moose hunt today.

READ MORE: Biggest Bear in the World: Official World Records for Each Bear Species

The best trail camera for battery life depends on various factors such as the camera’s power consumption, battery capacity, and usage patterns. However, some popular trail cameras known for their long battery life include the Browning Strike Force HD Pro X, Bushnell Core DS No Glow, and Reconyx HyperFire 2. These cameras often utilize efficient power management systems and low-power components to extend battery life. It is recommended to consider factors like battery type, camera settings, and environmental conditions when choosing a trail camera for optimal battery performance.

1、 “Battery Life: Key Considerations for Trail Cameras”

When it comes to trail cameras, battery life is a crucial factor to consider. After all, you want a camera that can capture images and videos for an extended period without constantly needing battery replacements or recharging. So, what is the best trail camera for battery life?

There are several trail cameras on the market that offer impressive battery life. One popular option is the Browning Strike Force HD Pro X. This camera boasts an exceptional battery life, allowing it to capture images and videos for months on end. It utilizes eight AA batteries and has a power-saving mode that conserves energy when the camera is not in use.

Another top contender is the Bushnell Core DS No Glow Trail Camera. This camera is known for its long battery life, thanks to its dual sensor technology and efficient power management system. It can last for several months on a single set of AA batteries, making it an excellent choice for long-term surveillance.

The latest advancements in trail camera technology have also introduced solar-powered options. These cameras come with built-in solar panels that recharge the batteries using sunlight. One notable example is the Spypoint Solar-Dark Trail Camera. It combines a high-quality camera with a solar panel, ensuring that the batteries stay charged even in remote locations.

It’s important to note that battery life can vary depending on factors such as camera settings, temperature, and the number of images or videos captured. However, the aforementioned trail cameras are known for their exceptional battery life and are highly recommended by outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.

In conclusion, when looking for the best trail camera for battery life, consider options like the Browning Strike Force HD Pro X, Bushnell Core DS No Glow, and solar-powered cameras like the Spypoint Solar-Dark. These cameras offer impressive battery life and are designed to withstand the demands of outdoor use.

2、 “Top Trail Cameras with Longest Battery Life”

The best trail camera for battery life is a crucial consideration for wildlife enthusiasts and hunters who want to capture high-quality images and videos without constantly replacing batteries. While there are several trail cameras on the market, we have compiled a list of the top trail cameras with the longest battery life to help you make an informed decision.

One of the leading trail cameras known for its exceptional battery life is the Browning Strike Force HD Pro X. It boasts an impressive battery life of up to 11 months on just six AA batteries. This camera also features a lightning-fast trigger speed, high-resolution images, and HD video recording capabilities.

Another top contender is the Reconyx HyperFire 2 HF2X. With its unique NoGlow Gen3 High Output Infrared technology, this camera can capture high-quality images and videos while conserving battery power. It can last up to one year on 12 AA batteries, making it an excellent choice for long-term surveillance.

The Bushnell Core DS No Glow is also worth mentioning. It offers an extended battery life of up to one year on just six AA batteries. This camera is equipped with dual sensors, allowing for faster trigger speeds and improved image quality.

In recent years, advancements in technology have led to the development of solar-powered trail cameras. These cameras utilize solar panels to recharge their batteries, significantly extending their battery life. The Spypoint Solar-Dark and the Stealth Cam DS4K Max are two popular options in this category.

It’s important to note that battery life can vary depending on factors such as camera settings, temperature, and usage. However, the trail cameras mentioned above have consistently proven to have the longest battery life in their respective categories.

When choosing a trail camera, it’s essential to consider your specific needs and budget. Whether you prioritize battery life, image quality, or other features, these top trail cameras will undoubtedly provide you with reliable performance and long-lasting battery power.

3、 “Comparing Battery Life of Popular Trail Camera Brands”

When it comes to trail cameras, battery life is a crucial factor to consider. After all, you want a camera that can last for an extended period without needing frequent battery changes. While there are several trail camera brands on the market, it’s essential to compare their battery life to determine the best option for your needs.

One popular trail camera brand known for its exceptional battery life is Browning. Their cameras often feature long-lasting batteries that can endure months of use before needing replacement. Additionally, Browning trail cameras utilize efficient power-saving technology, allowing them to conserve battery life while still capturing high-quality images and videos.

Another brand worth mentioning is Bushnell. They offer trail cameras with impressive battery life, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about constantly changing batteries. Bushnell cameras also come with various power-saving features, such as adjustable trigger intervals and low-power consumption modes, further extending their battery life.

Moultrie is another reputable brand known for its reliable trail cameras with excellent battery life. Their cameras often feature long-lasting batteries that can withstand extended periods of use. Moultrie also offers external power options, such as solar panels and battery packs, which can significantly extend the camera’s battery life.

It’s important to note that technology is constantly evolving, and new trail camera models are regularly released with improved battery life. Therefore, it’s advisable to stay updated with the latest releases and customer reviews to ensure you’re making an informed decision.

In conclusion, when comparing the battery life of popular trail camera brands, Browning, Bushnell, and Moultrie are known for their exceptional battery performance. However, it’s always recommended to research the latest models and customer feedback to determine the best trail camera for your specific needs.

4、 “Tips for Maximizing Battery Life on Trail Cameras”

The best trail camera for battery life is a subjective question as it depends on individual needs and preferences. However, there are several trail cameras on the market that are known for their exceptional battery life. Some popular options include the Browning Strike Force HD Pro, the Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Aggressor, and the Reconyx HyperFire 2.

These trail cameras are designed with energy-efficient features that help maximize battery life. They often use low-power consumption technology, such as infrared LEDs for night vision, which consume less energy compared to traditional flash systems. Additionally, they may have adjustable settings for trigger intervals and detection ranges, allowing users to customize the camera’s activity and conserve battery power.

To further maximize battery life on trail cameras, there are a few tips to keep in mind. Firstly, using lithium batteries instead of alkaline batteries can significantly extend the camera’s runtime. Lithium batteries have a longer lifespan and perform better in extreme temperatures. Secondly, reducing the number of photos or videos taken per trigger can help conserve battery power. Adjusting the camera’s sensitivity settings can help achieve this. Lastly, regularly checking and cleaning the camera’s lens and sensors can ensure optimal performance and prevent false triggers, which can drain the battery unnecessarily.

It’s important to note that technology is constantly evolving, and new trail cameras with improved battery life are regularly introduced to the market. Therefore, it’s recommended to research and compare the latest models and read customer reviews to find the best trail camera for battery life that suits your specific needs.

.308 Winchester is rightfully one of the most popular cartridges among U.S. hunters. With a .308 round, you can take down medium to heavy animals, such as elk, at 300 to 500 yards. Also, since the ammo is widely available, you don’t have to suffer to get it.

On the downside, .308 Winchester rounds generate recoil energy between 15 and 18 foot-pounds, which some hunters find excessive. If .308 recoil is too much for you, you don’t have to quit using the round. Instead, minimize felt recoil and enjoy shooting the round by switching to one of the lowest recoil .308 rifles.

Here are some of the best .308 hunting rifles for hunters that prefer less recoil:

Ruger American Rifle Vortex Crossfire II Combo

Replace your current rifle without overspending by buying the Ruger American Rifle Vortex Crossfire II Combo. It’s arguably the lowest-recoil .308 rifle you can get for less than $800.

However, don’t let the affordability deceive you. The Vortex Crossfire II is just as reliable and effective as many $1,000+ rifles. It even comes with a scope. Also, the rifle has a soft rubber butt pad that softens the kick when you shoot, making firing .308 rounds more accurate and less painful.

Another reason to love the Vortex Crossfire II is it weighs a bit more than other .308 hunting rifles on this list. The extra weight reduces how much recoil transfers to the shooter and minimizes muzzle rise. In summary, the Vortex Crossfire II is one of the best .308 hunting rifles to buy if you want a reliable low-recoil gun that won’t break the bank.

Henry Long Ranger

Do you prefer traditional-looking rifles? If so, the Henry Long Ranger might be for you. The hunting rifle features a 20-inch barrel for optimal accuracy and bullet velocity when shooting .308 rounds. It also has beautiful wood finishes on the stock and forestock.

Like the Vortex Crossfire II, the Henry Long Ranger weighs about seven pounds and reduces how much recoil transfers to the shooter. Also, the Henry Long Ranger has a thick rubber recoil pad on the base of the stock. The recoil pad cushions kickback, making shooting the rifle less injurious to your shoulder.

Nosler M21

If you have over $2,000 to spend on a low-recoil rifle, the Nosler M21 is worth considering. It’s one of the best .308 hunting rifles for precision shooters, and Nosler built this rifle to be reliable and durable in any terrain or weather.

The Nosler M21 also comes with a one-inch recoil pad that cushions the kickback when you fire a round. The thickness of the recoil pad keeps the rifle’s length of pull within a comfortable range to prevent awkward handling that might worsen felt recoil.

Lastly, the Nosler M21 has a threaded barrel where you can easily attach a suppressor or muzzle brake. Attaching either of these accessories will significantly reduce the rifle’s recoil.

Browning X-Bolt Speed Suppressor Ready

The Browning X-Bolt Speed earns its badge as one of the lowest recoil .308 rifles for hunters thanks to features like its radial muzzle brake and Inflex recoil pad. The radial muzzle brake on the barrel has side vents that reduce the force with which expanding gases explode from the muzzle to launch rounds. The result is less felt recoil when you shoot.

On the other hand, the Inflex recoil pad is one of the better recoil pads for minimizing felt recoil and protecting your shoulder when you fire. Lastly, the Browning X-Bolt Speed has a threaded muzzle where you can attach a suppressor to reduce recoil even more.

Springfield Waypoint 2020

The Springfield Waypoint 2020 is a good-looking firearm that delivers impressive performance. While it’s pricier than other rifles on our list, the Springfield Waypoint justifies its price tag with its precision. In fact, the manufacturer is so confident about the precision of this rifle that it offers a .75 MOA guarantee.

The Springfield Waypoint 2020 also gets top scores for reduced recoil. The rifle has less recoil because its integral machined recoil lug spreads out the force that ejects rounds from the muzzle. The rifle also has a removable SA Radial muzzle brake that minimizes kickback when attached.

Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter

Bolt action rifles aren’t for everyone. If you prefer hunting with a semi-automatic, the Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter is one of the best .308 hunting rifles to buy. It’s an AR-10 rifle built with premium components and a matching price tag of $3,000+.

Unlike a typical bolt action rifle, a gas-powered semi-automatic like the Wilson Combat Tactical Hunter spreads recoil across various components, leading to less recoil. The firearm’s recoil is tolerable enough to prevent soreness after a day of hunting.

Winchester XPR

The Winchester XPR is an affordable and effective bolt action rifle that has rightly earned a place among the lowest recoil .308 rifles. Its Inflex® Technology recoil pad reduces felt kickback, and the cross-mounted recoil lug minimizes recoil’s effect on shooting accuracy.

Several models of the rifle are available, such as the suppressor-ready Winchester XPR Stealth SR and the XPR Compact Scope Combo with detachable scope. Each option is available at a different price, allowing you to pick a rifle that matches your budget and shooting needs.

What to Look for in a Rifle

We’ve provided options to choose from if you want to buy the lowest recoil .308 rifle, but which should you choose? Picking the perfect low-recoil rifle requires taking several factors into consideration. For instance, you need to consider the price.

The most expensive rifles typically have premium components, but you don’t need something that expensive if you plan to use the firearm only a few times a year. Instead, pick a rifle that offers your preferred features without exceeding your budget. Below are the features to prioritize when looking for a rifle that fits your budget:

Reliability

You don’t want a rifle prone to misfiring or a firearm that might fall apart during use. Avoid such issues by buying a rifle from a manufacturer with a reputation for building firearms that stand the test of time. The gun should feature high-quality components and treatment that minimizes corrosion or rust, such as bluing or a Cerakote finish.

Accuracy

Hunting with an inaccurate rifle means you’ll be relying on Lady Luck to hit your targets. Since Lady Luck is unpredictable, opt for an accurate rifle that facilitates precision shooting. Accurate rifles typically come with an MOA guarantee, such as the Springfield Waypoint’s .75 MOA guarantee.

Fit

If a rifle is too long or heavy, you will have trouble handling it and experience felt recoil more intensely. Pick a rifle that you can comfortably shoulder and maneuver to track targets.

The rifle should also have a comfortable length of pull (LOP) – the distance between the trigger and the base of the butt plate or recoil pad. A too-short or long LOP will make shooting uncomfortable and inaccurate.

Action

You can opt for a break, bolt, lever, or semi-automatic action rifle. Break action rifles typically hold one or two rounds and require swinging open the barrel to eject and chamber rounds.

Bolt-action rifles have a bolt at the top that you manually slide to eject a spent round and load a fresh one. Such rifles are famous for their accuracy, reliability, and durability. Lever-action rifles work like bolt-action rifles but require working a lever under the shoulder stock to eject and load rounds. On the other hand, semi-automatics automatically eject and load rounds after each shot to help you shoot faster.

Barrel Length

The best .308 hunting rifles have a long barrel (between 18 and 24 inches). The longer the barrel, the greater the accuracy and bullet velocity. However, the longer the barrel, the heavier your rifle will be, which can cause portability and maneuverability issues. Choose a rifle with a barrel long enough to deliver the best shot without compromising your ability to maneuver the weapon conveniently.

Make Any Rifle Lower-Recoil Using a Suppressor

Attaching the right suppressor to your hunting rifle can make the weapon look more lethal and tactical. Besides aesthetics, hunting with a high-quality suppressor has several other benefits.

Benefits of Using a Rifle Suppressor

Reduced Recoil

You can turn your hunting firearm into the lowest recoil .308 rifle by attaching a quality suppressor. A suppressor goes on the muzzle of a firearm to slow the explosive escape of expanding propellant gas, leading to less recoil.

Hearing Protection

Besides reducing recoil, slowing the release of expanding propellant gas reduces gunfire noise. A rifle without a suppressor can be louder than 140 decibels, which is loud enough to cause immediate harm to your hearing. A high-quality suppressor can reduce gunfire noise by up to 36 decibels.

More Stealth When Hunting

A suppressor can also hide your muzzle flash. If prey can’t hear your shot or see your muzzle flash, your location will remain hidden, and you can catch other nearby prey unawares.

Situational Awareness

Sudden muzzle flash in the dark can temporarily render you blind, while unsuppressed gunfire can make you temporarily deaf. A suppressor prevents such outcomes, so you can maintain complete situational awareness and avoid dangers during a hunt.

Invest in a Suppressor Today!

Regardless of which gun you choose from our lowest recoil .308 rifle list, reduce the recoil further by attaching a suppressor. Besides reducing recoil, a suppressor will protect your eyes and ears so you can enjoy hunting for many more ears.

Don’t know where to buy the best suppressor for your rifle? Visit our Silencer Central store today to shop for state-of-the-art .308 rifle suppressors.

When you entice one to step in the 4-inch circle of earth you prepared, there are not too many other feelings of accomplishment that compare to trapping bobcats.

Plus, with bobcat pelt prices staying consistently high, the full wallet at the end of the process is pretty satisfying too.

I did not include the number one most well-known trapping tip, just because everybody should know it: set on sign.

Here are nine additional tips I’ve picked up over the years, mostly from trapping with and observing some truly talented Wyoming bobcat trappers.

They’re Just Big Cats, So Observe Small Ones

An old timer told me this: “Cats are cats, whether they’re de-clawed house cats or mountain lions. These critters are carnivores. They all hunt and are attracted to the same sense triggers.” He advised me to observe “domesticated” house/barn cats whenever possible. You will likely notice many parallels in bobcat populations that will make it much easier to lure one into your coil spring, foothold traps, or cage trap.

Visual Attraction

Just like a house cat will stalk and pounce at a red laser light or a piece of string that you are wiggling, bobcats can’t hardly resist investigating moving objects they can’t immediately identify. Near each bobcat set, you should place some type of visual attraction.

One of my favorite techniques is to hammer a masonry nail into a rock wall near the set. Wrap a length of baling wire on the nail and protrude it about a foot straight out from the wall. At the end of the wire, bend a loop. Take a second small length of wire and loop the end through the first loop, so that the wire hangs loosely straight down. On the end of the second wire, attach something shiny and reflective. I’ve found silver Christmas garland or aluminum foil works well. Just make sure to check your local trapping regulations to make sure what you are doing is legal first.

The bobcats will see the reflection first, then notice the movement in the wind. As they curiously approach the movement from the bush, they will then pick up the scent of the bait – and hopefully move into the set.

Double Up the Springs

Use #10 traps for bobcat, but install a second set of springs. This will ensure the bobcat will not be able to pull out. Plus, cats paws are extremely sensitive, so, the more pressure on the paw, the less the bobcat will try to pull out.

Use Peat Moss

Because fur trapping is a winter pursuit, the temperature will more than likely be below freezing the majority of the time. Since the traps are buried in the ground, moisture from temperature changes can freeze the traps open.

The best way to avert this situation is to cover the trap with a layer of peat moss prior to sifting natural dirt over the trap. The organic materials within the peat moss emit methane, which when released, is warm. This will keep the trap from freezing up.

Cut Off a Paw

This is good trick for both bobcats as well as coyote. Cut off and preserve one of the front paws. Attach the paw to the end of a broom handle (cut in half) or a short stick. After you make your trap set and you have sifted the dirt over the trap to look completely natural, CAREFULLY and gently make a paw print directly over the trap pan.

Bobcats, especially big toms, are smart, and they instinctively know that if another bobcat has stepped in a certain spot, it must be safe to also step there.

Rocks/Ledges

When scouting a bobcat trapping location, always start with rock ledges. That’s where they live, especially in the Western states of America.

Rock ledges give bobcats a higher perspective to see prey below as well as affords them an extra level of protection from larger predators. First look for rock ledges and outcroppings, then look for sign – prints or scat. Those are all good indicators that you’re amongst good set locations.

Don’t Piss

This tip applies to bobcat hunting too and is a good rule of thumb for any furbearer you may target. Do not answer the call of nature where you hope to ambush one of these big cats. They have a great sense of small and you can ruin an entire area – no matter how catty it is – by urinating within your bobcat trap zone. Pee at the truck before you venture into your trapline, and hold it until you get out.

Don’t Disturb the Landscape

Disturbed landscape is another warning sign to bobcats. If you accidentally turn over a large rock, return it to it’s original position. Cover your tracks as you back away from your sets.

Cats Wander, Dogs Go Straight

In areas where bobcats and coyote share the landscape, a good rule of thumb when identifying animal tracks from a distance is that bobcats and lynx like to move in a serpentine pattern while coyotes tend to move in straight lines. Once you know this, it can make snaring your target species a whole lot easier if legal.

I just wrote 10 tips and realized I didn’t even get to choking trails into sets or bobcat bait. That will be for a future article.

Happy trapping!

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