Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

With a Low Thermal Coefficient of Expansion, HX5 is Perfectly Suited for Firearms at  Half the Weight and 90% the Strength of 6061-T6 Aluminum

Alpine Advanced Materials is taking aim at the firearms industry with its HX5 military aviation-grade thermoplastic nanocomposite. A material option that is 50% lighter and 90% the strength of 6061-T6 aluminum, HX5 also boasts a low thermal coefficient of expansion at a sixth that of 6061-T6, making it ideal for use in components like stocks, rails, mounts, grips, and sights.

Stronger than traditionally injection-molded thermoplastics, HX5 is ideal to replace metals where extreme endurance, weight, and performance matter, especially for thin or complex parts. Firearms are exposed to both internal and external temperature fluctuations, but materials like aluminum and steel can cause parts to expand or contract more than a material with a low coefficient of thermal expansion. Also, while one surface is exposed to extreme heat, the opposite may be exposed to cold or need to remain cool, making a material’s temperature tolerance of even greater import.

“Firearms need to work correctly the first time, every time, but their usability can be compromised if a critical feature has moved due to temperature,” said Roger Raley, president of Alpine Advanced Materials. “With a sixth of the thermal coefficient of expansion of aluminum, HX5 gives a higher chance that components and safety features will more likely be positioned correctly within any operating environment. This is key for manufacturers that want to instill as much confidence in both their product and brand.” 

Engineered to replace machined aerospace-grade aluminum at half the weight, HX5 has both a high tensile and compressive strength, low thermal conductivity, and is non-abrasive. It is also extremely corrosion-resistant, with no cosmetic or performance degradation after exposure to UV, DEET, or various fuels and solvents. Tested against the harshest environments on earth, it has demonstrated resistance to temperatures as high as 500°F and as low as -65°F. HX5 also coats well for both functional and decorative purposes. In addition to handling well during the manufacturing process, HX5 maintains superior performance when coated or plated whether with Cerakote, antimicrobial clearcoats, or other surface coatings like copper. 

Introduction

Since its founding in 2008, Primary Arms Optics has become renowned for their exclusive line of ACSS® reticles, which feature built-in target ranging and ballistic holdovers. In concept, these reticles allow for a faster, more accurate shots on target, but the truth is a bit more complex.

Over the last few years, Primary Arms Optics has released dozens of new reticles that continually improve on speed, precision, and usability. While these designs function well for general-purpose optics, Primary Arms optimizes each of their reticles for a specific task or function in the shooting world. Even subtle differences in a reticle’s layout can drastically improve the performance of an optic overall—particularly in specialized fields like long-range hunting.So, just how important are reticles, and what benefits can we expect from all this innovation?

Many sportsmen still trust their hunts to older Duplex and MIL-DOT reticles. Both reticles are over half a century old, and while there isn’t anything wrong with practiced tradition, these reticles exemplify the word ‘basic.’ Sure, they won’t cause you to miss a broadside shot within 50 yards, but when you’re searching for the best performance possible, you can do better than a plain crosshair.

What is ACSS?

The Advanced Combined Sighting System (ACSS®) is a line of high-precision reticles created by esteemed reticle engineer Dimitri Mikroulis. Dimitri’s reticles are exclusive to Primary Arms Optics, and although Primary Arms continues to sell Duplex and MIL-DOT reticles in their Classic scope line, most of their mainline rifle scopes use ACSS reticles.

All ACSS reticles incorporate a mix of tools for improved firing solutions. These tools may include…

Yamaha Generators Enters the Next Generation of Protection Standards

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has updated its full line of inverter and conventional generators with Carbon Monoxide (CO) Sensor  technology to meet the Portable Generator Manufactuers’ Association’s (PGMA®) ANSI/PGMA G300-2018 carbon monoxide emissions standard.

Already featured on the EF2200iS since mid-2021, the CO Sensor is now standard on the EF3000iS/iSEB, EF4500iSE, EF5500DE/D, EF6300iSDE and EF7200DE/D models. When the CO Sensor detects elevated  levels of carbon monoxide, the generators automatically shut off and will remain off for approximately five minutes, with an indication to move to a well-ventilated space. The CO Sensor graphic and LED indicator lights have been added to the control panels to notify the user of carbon monoxide emission levels or system malfunctions.

“As a leader in the portable generator industry, Yamaha supports technology that enhances the overall protection and performance of our products,” said Kevin Reed, Yamaha Outdoor Power Products division senior manager. “Whether for DIY projects, emergency back-up power, or camping, delivering safe and reliable power is our top priority as we continue to make this technology a standard feature across our lineup while maintaining the performance and reliability that our customers have come to expect.”

In addition to the CO Sensor, various protection systems are also included to maintain the performance and operation of the generators. All Yamaha generators are equipped with a Low Oil Warning System that shuts off the engine if the oil level drops too low. To prevent electric shock, the EF3000iS/iSEB, EF4500iSE and EF6300iSDE are equipped with a ground earth terminal while the EF5000D/DE and EF7200D/DE feature advanced dual GFCI 120V outlets that automatically cut off power if they sense a leak to ground.

Meopta Sport Optics is pleased to introduce the new MeoSport R 3-15×50 RD with illuminated 4C reticle. Designed for hunters seeking value and performance well beyond its price, the new MeoSport features a 30mm main tube with European-quality optics that perform in low light situations when hunters need it most. Reliable, accurate, and rugged, this 5x zoom scope with MeoBright lens coating delivers bright, crisp, and clear images, even in inclement weather thanks to Meopta’s MeoDrop hydrophobic lens coating which aggressively repels rain.

The MeoSport R 3-15×50 RD features a side focus from 10 yards to infinity, exposed 0.1 Mil windage and elevation adjustments with zero-reset turrets that lock, and an illuminated red dot reticle that makes it easier to get on target swiftly and accurately in low light. The lighter, sleek design incorporates a low-profile power ring that is easy to adjust, even when wearing gloves.

“We have really expanded our riflescope offerings in the last few years with the addition of the Optika5 and Optika6 lines, and the new MeoSport gives our customers the option of a lower-profile 30mm hunting scope at a great price point,” said Jaroslav Doseděl, Global Head of Meopta Sport Optics.

The MeoSport is nitrogen purged, shockproof, and fully sealed for fogproof and waterproof performance in the most demanding conditions. Like all Meopta optics sold in the United States, it is backed by Meopta’s Lifetime Transferrable Warranty.

Retail Pricing:   $449.99

Take on the harshest winter conditions in New Zealand based cult-clothing brand Swazi Apparel’s new full-length Ibex sock. Blending together the best sock technology with the enduring performance of traditional merino wool, the Ibex is engineered to be hard-wearing, yet incredibly comfortable.

Featuring the latest spinning technology, NuYarn® merino that releases the natural performance characteristics of wool fibre twisted out by traditional spinning methods, the sock’s body will dry five times faster, is 35 percent warmer with more stretch than conventional merino wool, plus 47 percent stronger. 

Hunt harder and higher with no worry of foot discomfort thanks to the Ibex’s double comfort top, cushioned sole and shin protection pads. Great freedom of movement is offered from flex panels placed around the ankle. With an elastic support system knitted throughout the sock, a firmer fit is guaranteed.

Ready to be put through its paces, the Ibex sock is reinforced with Nylon for extra durability, while the Paladin protection pad, placed across the top of the foot helps prevent shoes from exerting excessive downward pressure. This enhances blood flow for better circulation in cold extremes and reduces heat swelling and foot fatigue from exercise.

Davey Hughes, founder and creative director of Swazi, commented: “Taking inspiration from the ibex – a sure-footed and sturdy wild goat found in some of the most uninhibited places of the world – we wanted to create a sock to help hunters reach those tough, hard fought for heights. With comfort and durability guaranteed, we know you’ll love the Ibex as much as we do.”

Hunting in the rain can be challenging; hunting in the rain and getting wet is downright intolerable. Staying dry, especially in cooler temperatures, means wearing high-quality rain gear designed for the toughest conditions. Nomad’s Hailstorm NXT Jacket and Pants fit this requirement perfectly.

The Hailstorm NXT Jacket and Pants features a quiet and stretchable 2.5-layer shell rated 35k waterproof and 15k breathable. It repels water from drizzles to downpours while allowing for heat and condensation to escape. Windproof and waterproof taped seams help keep moisture out, even when moving through the woods and or climbing into a stand.

Hunters will find that the jacket provides plenty of room for gear in the zippered chest pockets, and the deep, zippered hand pockets keep you dry and warm. In warm conditions, the zippered armpits help hunters stay cooler by letting body heat dissipate. The jacket also sports an adjustable hood and hem for a perfect fit.

The Hailstorm NXT pants utilize the same great waterproof and windproof protection from waist to ankles. When walking, crawling or kneeling, the taped seams protect from rain and wet foliage. Zippered leg openings allow for easy dressing or removal over pants and boots. The pants have ample zippered and cargo pockets to provide room for essential gear.

The jacket and pants are available in either Mossy Oak® Hybrid Droptine or Mossy Oak® Hybrid Migrate, exclusive to Nomad. These patterns offer exceptional depth with sharp-edged contrast and will work equally well for whitetail, big game and waterfowl hunting applications.

Remington Ammunition has announced YouTuber and avid outdoorsman Adam Wies aka “Who Tee Who,” has joined Team Remington’s growing roster of brand ambassadors. Wies will use his following to showcase Remington Ammunition’s ability to perform in different unique tests on his YouTube Channel.

“Adam’s everything we’re looking for in an ambassador,” said Joel Hodgdon, Marketing Director for Remington Ammunition. “His channel’s reach and fanbase will give Remington Ammunition a new platform. After he came to the factory, met the team, and shot our stuff, this was an opportunity we knew we couldn’t miss out on.” 

Wies has cultivated a massive following on his YouTube Channel as he showcases his love of guns, being outdoors and other hobbies. His unique approach to ammunition testing and his family-friendly videos appeal to his southern, hunting-focused audience. Fans can watch as Wies pushes Big Green ammunition to the limit in a variety of videos.

“Joining Team Remington has been incredible,” said Wies. “After working with Joel and his team, I feel confident that I’m in the right place. I’m excited to put Big Green to good use and showcase the brand to my subscribers.”

To watch Adam Wies test Remington Ammunition, fans can subscribe to his YouTube Channel and follow his Instagram. Find Remington ammunition at dealers nationwide and online. For more information on Remington ammunition and accessories, visit www.remington.com.

By Jim Henderson, CMP Pistol Coordinator

As the title implies, this is going to be a short overview of how to shoot, or the ins and outs, of a bullseye match – things you should and shouldn’t do before, during and after a match.

So, let’s just jump right in, from the beginning…

Before the Match:

Practice and preparation are key to having fun and enjoying a match you paid your hard-earned money to shoot. I believe in practicing the things you may not be as good at more often than what you do well. Having awesome slow fire is great, but two-thirds of your match is sustained fire. If you aren’t where you think you should be in, say, rapid fire – it’s in your best interest to get better at it! In my opinion, if I had limited resources and time, I would train nothing but rapid fire.

Blaser Group will showcase the newest products from its Liemke Thermal Optics, Blaser, Mauser and Sauer lines at the 50th annual Safari Club International (SCI) Convention, January 19-22 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

New products from Liemke – the dominant thermal optics brand in Germany, renowned for fast refresh rates, and reliability – include the Keiler, Merlin and Sperber lines.  Merlin thermal imaging devices can be clipped directly onto any hunter’s daytime riflescope or be used as a monocular while the Keiler family of products are designed for use as hand-held monoculars.  The new Sperber 1 3-12x power with 1280×960 resolution is Liemke’s newest high-performance thermal riflescope. 

Iconic German gunmakers Blaser, Mauser and J.P. Sauer and Sohn will debut their newest rifles for 2022.  The new Blaser R8 Ultimate Carbon rifle will be on display as will the new Mauser M18 Savanna bolt-action rifle featuring a threaded barrel for the addition of suppressors or muzzle breaks. 

J.P. Sauer and Sohn’s 270th Anniversary Collection of new rifles include Sauer S100 models available with popular American stocks from H-S Precision®, KRG and AG Composites.  And, for the first time ever, a Sauer thermal package is available.  The S100 Panterra XT Thermal package combines the precision Panterra rifle (available in .308 Win or 6.5 Creedmoor chamberings) with a Liemke Sperber 1 thermal riflescope, hex-a-lock-mounts, a Sauer hard rifle case, Sauer sling, and 5- and 10-round magazines.

Also on display, the new Sauer SL5 Waterfowler semi-automatic shotgun.

U.S. LawShield®, industry leader and America’s largest provider of  Legal Defense for Self Defense®  coverage, announced today that Kristi Heuring has been promoted to the role of Vice President of Communications. Heuring previously held the role of Director of Partner Relations for U.S. LawShield.

“The U.S. LawShield team is proud to promote Kristi into her new role,” said P.J. Hermosa, CEO of U.S. LawShield. “Since joining the team less than a year ago, she has continued to put the success of our 2A Partners first. Kristi brings extensive industry knowledge and passion to all she does.”

Kristi is an award-winning marketing strategist with over 25 years of experience generating creative strategies and leveraging public relations and media platforms to help businesses achieve revenue and sales goals.

About U.S. LawShield

Since 2009, the mission of U.S. LawShield remains unchanged. We believe in Preserving Freedom for Good® by educating our 700,000+ members and 6,000+ industry 2A Partners in self-defense law; empowering them to handle critical, life-threatening situations with confidence; protecting them from potential injustices in the legal system after acts of self-defense; and challenging the status quo regarding the affordability of legal defense. Our higher purpose is to create a united community of responsible individuals who believe in liberty and the inalienable right of self-defense.

Mogadore, OH. Wicked Ridge Crossbows recently launched a new carbon crossbow arrow, crossbow bowpack, and expandable broadhead to round out their accessory lineup.

“We understand our customers want the best hunting or shoot experience possible,” said CEO Rick Bednar. “These new Wicked Ridge accessories are designed for performance and durability at a great value for our customers and gives them plenty of options for outfitting their crossbow when they head to the shooting range or field.”

Weighing 400-grains, their NEW Match 400 Carbon Crossbow Arrow provides the highest level of accuracy for Wicked Ridge crossbows at a perfect price tag. The arrow features a Stainless-Steel Insert which creates an improved 14% FOC, generating up to 20% tighter groupings.

Their new Impact Broadhead is designed for precision, durability, and performance at a great value.  The 100-grain, 2-blade, rear-deploying Impact broadhead features a steel construction and a simple, collarless design that delivers field point accuracy and a devastating 2” cut. Its floating blade design ensure the blades do not open in-flight.

Finally, the NEW Ambush Bowpack is the industry’s most affordable crossbow bowpack and is designed to fit Wicked Ridge crossbow models built in 2019 and newer.

Decked and Uncharted Supply Co. have worked together on a vehicle survival kit specifically for adventurers, truck owners and what the heck even soccer moms.  The Decked D-Bag is the ultimate tool to keep you safe when things go a little western.  The selection has a variety of tools broken down into six subsets.  Tools, Air & Vision, Warmth, First Aid, Power, and Food & Water. 

Uncharted Supply Co. understands that it takes great tools and know-how to put together kits that can help you survive any situation and this bag is the best preparation for life anywhere whether that is hunting, camping, overlanding or even in the city or at the office.  Partnering with the DECKED team they put together a kit specifically to fit inside the DECKED system to help their customers always be ready for whatever life threw at them.  The D-Bag has everything from 24000 calorie ration bars to the Zues portable power station and jump starter for your vehicle.  It helps to be prepared for anything. 

Check out a little about this kit:

ABOUT THE DECKED D-BAG:

The DECKED D-Bag is a versatile, military-grade hybrid soft and hard shell bag.  Organize and transport this bugout kit to the job site, campsite, airport, trailhead, office…anywhere.

I remember my first hunt with my own father, and it was the most important hunts of my lifetime. It cemented my passion for walking and hunting on public land. The joy of discovery just over the next hillside. I never pulled a trigger that day and neither did my father, but we did see the Western most herd of antelope. They played heavily in my head for many years before my father and I were able to hunt antelope together 12 years later in Wyoming.

It was those hunts out in the hills of the Eastern Sierra Mountains that I grew to know my father and he got to see the passion that I had for the outdoors. It was also on those hunts that I got to spend time with men who were much older than I was, and I learned how to act properly around people. Those kinds of interactions and understanding my role in a group of people is important. I came to understand respect as well as when to talk and when to be quiet. So much of my upbringing was through little lessons that were taught to me at the hands of my family and family-friends who were always around. It didn’t matter whether we were putting in the garden in the spring, cutting wood on summer weekends, or hunting in the fall. We always had people around who were mentors and who stepped up to the plate. I am blessed and I am honored to have had such a great dad and that he surrounded me with good people.

Taking kids hunting really isn’t all that complicated. There are some basic rules, like 12 rules of gun safety, that need to be drilled into mentors, parents, kids and anyone hunting especially around kids because the example needs to be set. Treat the kids with respect and talk to them like they are equal when you are in the field. Point out tracks, scat, and trails. Educate when you are out, I always carry a bushcraft backpack kit with me when mentoring that I can break out and use to teach kids.  Below are the basics of gun safety. 

Gun Safety Rules

You never fool around or play with guns. Guns are dangerous when they are not handled or used properly and can easily injure or kill you, and those around you. There are no second chances with a gun and the rules for safe gun handling must always be followed to avoid accidents.

Maven Outdoor Equipment Company, a Wyoming-based direct to-consumer brand known for offering world-class optics at affordable prices, has introduced  an all-new CRS Series of riflescopes featuring the brand’s award-winning glass, high-end  components and proprietary reticles.

The initial product lineup consists of two models, the CRS.1 (3-12×40 SFP) and the CRS.2 (4- 16×44 SFP). Each model is built with the same extra low dispersion (ED) glass found in Maven’s  award-winning line of C Series optics. As a result, the products offer exceptionally clear, bright and high-contrast images with excellent color rendering.  

Additionally, both scopes are equipped with a new CSHR reticle specifically developed for the  CRS Series. A unique version of Maven’s popular Simplified Holdover Reticle, the CSHR offers  0.25 MOA/click units for quick and easy adjustments and holdovers. Both models also utilize a  second focal plane optical system that allows the CSHR reticle to be crisp and clear at all  magnifications.  

“We developed the CRS lineup based on requests from our customers, the popularity of our  other C Series optics, and the opportunity to fill a void in our product offering,” said Brendon  Weaver, Co-Founder and Head of Design and Marketing for Maven. “Now, in addition to our  premium RS Series, we can offer hunters and shooters a wide range of high-quality scopes to  serve any need and budget.” 

Maven CRS.1 Riflescope

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska’s first regulated harvest season for river otters will close Jan. 11 due to the season close trigger of 75 otters being met.

River otters incidentally trapped after Jan. 10 must be turned over to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The season opened on Nov. 1 and otters only were allowed to be harvested by trapping.

Game and Parks’ goal is to manage and maintain healthy, thriving wildlife populations for the long term. The pilot season will provide data about statewide river otter distribution, while continuing to allow the population to expand.

For more information about river otters in Nebraska, visit outdoornebraska.gov/ottertrapping.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Kathryn Romine of Lincoln became a big advocate for the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Your Parks Adventure challenge this year.

“I really like the spirit of adventure and the opportunity to get out and see places I never get a chance to see,” Romine said. “I’m always up for getting out and hitting the road.”

She and her friend visited several state parks and recreation areas across Nebraska, many for the first time, taking part in the Your Parks Adventure Program. As the challenge grand prize winner, Romine will now be able to camp in the parks in her new Forest River RV Patriot Edition 14cc camper from AC Nelsen RV World.

In the challenge, which was part of the state park system’s centennial celebration, people who visited any state park area from June through November, took a photo at a designated station, and submitted it and their story online were eligible to win prizes. Selfie stations were conveniently placed at 100 sites among Game and Parks’ 76 state park, state historical park and state recreation areas. More than 800 participants enthusiastically visited the selfie stations and shared their photos – some with multiple generations, groups of friends and pets.

Only those who visited Chadron State Park, Victoria Springs State Recreation Area, Arbor Lodge State Historical Park and Danish Alps State Recreation Area were entered in a drawing for the grand prize donated by AC Nelsen RV World. More than 228 people met that challenge, visiting those parks across the state.

The Archery Trade Association announced winners for its third annual Best in Show awards program at the 2022 ATA Trade Show in Louisville, Jan. 7-9.

The ATA recognized two individuals and three organizations in its Impact Awards program. Additionally, three products in the Featured Product Showcase won an award and six products received awards through the New Product Launch Showcase. 

Impact Award Recipients:

The ATA created the Impact Award program to recognize those who use their voice or platform to inspire others to participate in archery and bowhunting. “Impact” means having a strong effect on someone or something. Individuals and companies that worked to grow archery sports were eligible. A nominee’s impact could be driven by creativity, service, technology, engagement, longevity, sustainability, and overcoming adversity or awareness. The award recipients are:

Read ATA’s article “ATA Announces 2022 Impact Award Winners” for recipient reactions and information about the winners.