When it comes to long guns there are as many different opinions as there are shooters and hunters. At the end of the day two questions arise, what do you enjoy shooting and will it get the job done? These are the key elements to evaluate. Personally, I am one of those who loves it all. I really enjoy shooting diminutive rimfire rifles at small game and the ‘big-as-your-thumb’ cartridges that are scary to look at, much less shoot. But when it comes to hunting big game in dense woods, I will always opt for a large caliber rifle over anything else.
As a deer hunter from South Carolina, our woods and forest are extremely dense. It is always fascinating to bring people from other parts of the country to hunt at our farm. Much of our woods are limited to shots inside forty yards. Some less and a few are more. Extreme shots will stretch to perhaps seventy yards. In these places having a gun that is short, light and easy to shoot is a great option for hunters. Follow up shots are seldom needed or even possible. We have to make the first shot count. Single shot rifles have always held a popular place in many hunters’ hearts in this part of the country. There is something magical and simplistic about shooting a single shot rifle. The ability to produce a great lethal shot the first time draws many hunters who are looking for a challenge.
In many states, the use of centerfire rifles is illegal or limited. These states have laws to prohibit the ability to shoot long range during their deer season. Shotgun slugs, muzzleloaders and some handguns are all that are legal in many instances.
In recent years, firearm manufacturers have worked to increase the information and knowledge of lawmakers to loosen some of these restrictions. Now in some states, where it was illegal before, the use of “Straight walled cartridges” are legal. Meaning, centerfire rifles that do not have a necked down case. Cartridges such as .357 Mag., .44 Rem Mag., .45-70 Govt., .460 S&W, and a few others, are now legal. Be sure to check both state and local laws for specific details in legality.
Finding a quality rifle that fits these parameters has proven to be a challenge for many hunters that previously used shotgun slugs. Traditions™ Firearms stepped up to the plate to address this and other issues. Introducing the Traditions™ Outfitter G2. Available is six popular calibers, this is a high quality centerfire single shot rifle.
The caliber I tested was the.45-70 Gov’t. First impression was shock and awe. The short barrel with muzzle-brake was something I didn’t expect and one that I really like. The Traditions™ Outfitter G2 Rifle is a break-action, single shot cartridge rifle. The break action is simple and fast to operate. Making this a great choice for those who want a simple, lethal gun. This centerfire rifle is the perfect choice for whitetail and large game hunting. The Outfitter G2 is lightweight, easy to carry, and extremely accurate.
Personally, I love the shorter 22″ Chromoly fluted barrel that reduces weight and is easier to maneuver. The gun arrived with a 3-9×40 scope and padded carrying case. All that was needed was some ammunition and I was ready to hit the range to get it sighted in and ready to hunt.
My day at the range proved two things once again. First, it proved again that I love the .45-70 Gov’t! The big straight walled cartridge takes me back to yesteryear when men had nothing else and they had to make their shots count. Today the .45-70 Gov’t is more suited for game inside 150 yards. Shooting my favorite Hornady LEVERevolution 325 grain bullets the Traditions™ Outfitter G2 in .45-70 Gov’t was a sheer joy to shoot. Secondly, like all big bore rifles the recoil is deliberate, but the added muzzle-brake really helped in felt recoil. Hearing protection is needed anytime you are shooting a firearm. It is compounded when shooting one with a muzzle-brake. The gasses are thrown in so many different directions the sound is magnified to the shooter. Even with this, shooting a few dozen rounds was manageable without much issue.
Traditions is best known for their remarkable muzzleloaders but the Outfitter G2 will change opinions quickly. These are fine quality, fun to shoot and dependable. When looking for a high quality single shot rifle that will fill these needs and not break the bank, look no further than the Outfitter G2.
