Hunting and Fishing News & Blog Articles

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — Longtime National Wild Turkey Federation member Ron Jones was recently selected as the winner of the Renovation Hunter’s free hunt camp renovation solely for a member of the NWTF

Jones’ property, located in the prime hunting territory of Forest County, Pennsylvania, will receive updates to the camp’s facilities that currently span 800 square feet, and the surrounding 80 acres of private property will also be enhanced to best support healthy habitats and healthy harvests.

“We at Renovation Hunters, on behalf of the NWTF, are thrilled to announce the recipient of the free renovation of their hunting camp and property,” said Hal Shaffer, host of Renovation Hunters. “The winner, Ron Jones, has dedicated his life to introducing individuals of all ages to the outdoors. His humble commitment to the process of teaching others and preserving hunting traditions make him a truly worthy recipient.”

Jones, 77, has devoted his life to mentoring and guiding the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. With plans to pass on his legacy to his family, Jones’ camp now requires essential maintenance, including deck upgrades and expansion of the bunkhouse to ensure its ongoing use for future generations. Jones’ longtime hunting partner, Don Davis, nominated Jones for the camp renovation prize. Top of Form

“Ron has been an avid outdoorsman all his life and loves nothing more than sharing that passion with others,” Davis said. “He has used that camp to bring hunters old and young in to get their first turkey or deer. The camp is an annual tradition for many during deer season and is always open for friends and family, not only to hunt but come to for outdoor recreation. The impact he has had on young people during his life is immeasurable.”

GUN DOG Production Features Heart-pounding Upland Adventures Behind Hard-Charging Bird Dogs

DENVER (February 23, 2024) – GUN DOG magazine and Outdoor Channel announce the premiere of season two of Wild Upland on April 2 at 6:30 p.m. ET. Following the acclaimed first season, host Kali Parmley, returns with her trusty bird dogs, Lincoln and Jones, for more heart-pounding adventures across North America. From the mesquite prairies of Texas to the lush lands of Oregon, this season promises more thrills, more breathtaking scenery, and exceptional dog work that will captivate viewers.

Hosted by Kali Parmley, Editor-in-Chief and Associate Publisher of GUN DOG magazine, and Associate Editor Nathan Ratchford, WildUpland takes viewers on journeys through America’s untamed landscapes in pursuit of wild birds.

This season, Parmley embarks on a personal journey to hunt her first sage grouse, revealing the emotional voyage of hunter and dog alike. In the premiere episode, viewers will witness young setter Jones showcase his growing skills as a bird dog, culminating in a shared victory with Parmley as they both achieve a milestone with the bagging of their first sage grouse.

Parmley’s passion for upland hunting and her companions resonates deeply with viewers. She states, “The hunt for wild birds takes you to untouched landscapes in far off places. Any state that I am hunting behind my dogs is my favorite place.” This simple sentiment captures the essence of Wild Upland, which is much more than a hunting show—it’s an exploration of the bond between hunter and dog and the exhilarating challenge of working as one in pursuit of wild upland game.

This week “Hunting Matters” welcomes Heidi Rao!

Heidi Lyn Rao was hired by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) in 1998 and has recruited, trained, and retained volunteers, as the Hunter Education Specialist for Southeast Texas. In 2010 she also assumed the role as statewide Becoming an Outdoors-Woman (BOW) Coordinator. 

During her TPWD career, she developed many partnerships and organized many education & outreach events. She started “Take Me Outdoors Houston” in 2009, when the Texas Wildlife Expo ended, and brings this annual family-friendly, free, hands-on outdoor event to Discovery Green, Downtown Houston. She hosts wildlife workshops ranging from alligators to big game. She promotes hunting and outdoor safety to groups ranging from elementary school aged to flying offshore via helicopter to speak to oil and gas employees in the middle of the Gulf of Mexico on a platform. From teaching firearm safety to Rodeo Clowns during the Houston Rodeo, to hosting Hunter Education classes at the Sam Houston (horse) Raceway, conducting National Archery in the Schools Program and Student Air Rifle certifications, and partnering with many hunting, shooting and conservation organizations across Texas.

She has coordinated twenty-seven statewide BOW workshops across Texas, including the first-ever VIRTUAL BOW in 2020. She has reached over 7,000 Ladies who have attended BOW and continued their outdoors skills ultimately becoming hunters, anglers, and archers, especially through mentored BOW hunts. To date, ten Texas Outdoor Women Network (TOWN) groups have launched across the state because of the statewide BOW. 

She received IHEA’s Professional of the Year; IHEA’s Executive Director’s Award; TPWD’s Terry Erwin Hunter Education LEGACY award, Houston Safari Club Educator of the Year and she is also in the Texas Hunter Education Halls of Fame. 

Visit Hall 6, Stand 6-222

FALCO® Holsters, a globally recognized leader in custom leather holsters, will introduce new holster designs for 2024 in Hall 6, Stand 6-222 during the IWA OutdoorClassics trade fair held in Nuremberg, Germany from February 29 to March 3. Featured products include the new CX85 Carbon Fiber Holster and A224 Concealed Ankle Holster.

Katarína Zacharová FALCO Holsters, Vice President of Sales and Marketing, describes the company’s commitment to customer satisfaction, “We design everyday carry holsters based on customer preferences, and our new offerings highlight our dedication to innovation. The CX85 Carbon Fiber Holster is a state-of-the-art slim-profile holster that features the renowned strength and lightweight advantages of carbon fiber material. At the same time, the A224 Concealed Ankle Holster is a compact leather holster combined with a comfortable elastic band and adjustable Velcro closure for deep concealed carry.

Introducing the New CX85 Carbon Fiber Holster

Zacharová underscores the significance of the CX85, stating, “This holster isn’t just another plastic holster with a carbon fiber finish; it’s a testament to our dedication to innovation and the highest quality materials. Constructed from genuine carbon fiber and weighing a mere 3.5 oz., the CX85 embodies mechanical expertise and artistic finesse. The CX85 Carbon Fiber Holster seamlessly merges cutting-edge technology with a proven design, setting new standards in holster craftsmanship.”

A reliable power source is crucial in a world increasingly filled with devices and tools that require charging or recharging. Nothing could be more critical than having power when and where needed, whether on a remote job site or while camping.

The need to recharge products can be frequent and sometimes inconvenient. Whether using a power saw while building a structure in the woods, a cell phone for emergency use when camping, or powering up a laptop to work remotely, having a reliable power source to recharge these items can bring peace of mind. The need for power is at a premium.

NEBO has addressed these power needs with its new PINNACLE 1600 Power Station.

The PINNACLE 1600 provides 1600 watts of off-grid power and 12-way device charging. Its rugged design, sturdy anchor points, protective port covers, and solar capability allow versatility and portability for any outdoor experience.

The PINNACLE 1600 is AC, DC and solar rechargeable while offering 2 USB-A, 2 bi-directional USB-C, Wireless, 4 AC and 3 DC charging options. It utilizes pass-through charging with Swift Charge Technology. The PINNACLE 1600 also employs NEBO Overdrive and Pure Sine Wave Technology, offering an uninterrupted power supply with Smart Battery Protection.

THAW offers the most comprehensive lineup of rechargeable and disposable personal warming devices on the market. They not only help first responders stay warm when temperatures plummet, they help them perform their very best. The unique portable heating products help law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical technicians, 911 dispatchers and paramedics stay warm in the harshest conditions, ensuring Mother Nature doesn’t get in the way of life-saving work. All THAW heating devices incorporate the latest in warming technology to provide long-lasting, reliable function, meaning first responders – and anyone else who works or plays in cold temperatures – can stay warm and comfortable enough to perform at their best. 

THAW has many rechargeable innovations that keep users warm from toe to head. Rechargeable Heated Insoles, which come in a variety of sizes to fit both men and women, provide precious heat for up to 4.5 hours. THAW uses BluetoothⓇ technology controlled by an ingenious smartphone app to offer independent or simultaneous controls for each insole. The app also enables users to monitor battery life, stream weather forecasts and even loan the insoles to friends. Perhaps best of all, convenient magnetic charging cables allow for easy in-shoe charging, so first responders never have to worry about forgetting them when hurrying to answer a call.

THAW also offers disposable and rechargeable hand warmers to keep digits warm and working in frigid conditions. Their popular disposable hand warmers use a unique chemical compound that makes them last longer than competitors’ products. Each pouch contains two disposable hand warmers that, when opened, react to air to create safe, long-lasting heat that lasts all day, ensuring the cold never gets in the way of getting the job done. Their dual-purpose Rechargeable Hand Warmers not only keep hands warm but can be used to recharge USB-powered devices. Available in two different sizes, each hand warmer provides comfortable, double-sided heat and will last up to 10 hours on a single charge. 

First responders work in some of the most stressful and challenging conditions. Don’t let bone-chilling temperatures get in the way of performing flawlessly in the field. Pick up some THAW personal heating products today!

Explore the full line of THAW products by visiting thaw.acgbrands.com.

Metal or wood bleachers may offer a great view of the game but don’t provide much comfort for fans. Portable seats with backs make cheering for the team more comfortable, and the Millennium Sportsline Stadium Seat is designed with features that deliver the best spectator experience.

This lightweight, folding seat is easy to carry to and from the stadium and allows fans to relax as they take in the game. Millennium Sportsline has crafted a portable seat built for years of enjoyment.

No matter which team wins on the field, the Millennium Sportsline Stadium Seat is the big winner for fans, leading the league in comfort, portability, and durability.

Millennium Sportsline STADIUM SEAT

Call or visit millenniumsportsline.com to inquire about personalized Stadium Seats with a custom logo.

TrueTimber, the world’s best-selling camo brand, is proud to announce a new partnership with the South Carolina Waterfowl Association (SCWA) as the organization’s official camo sponsor. TrueTimber will sponsor over 30 events in 2024, including SCWA banquets, raffles and conservation education programs.  

TrueTimber’s team recently visited SCWA to get an in depth look at the nation’s leading Wildlife Education Center and its incredible facilities to gain a better understanding of the overall mission. Footage from the visit can be seen at the following link.  

“SCWA has done amazing work promoting and protecting the hunting culture here in our home state through education, research and conservation,” said TrueTimber CEO Rusty Sellars. “Over the last four decades, SCWA can truly say that they have moved the needle, and we are very excited to help support them in this important mission.”

TrueTimber’s partnership with SCWA has plans to develop a youth waterfowl hunting initiative to include a line of youth waterfowl hunting apparel. A portion of all proceeds from the apparel line will go towards SCWA’s effort to introduce and educate youth hunters. 

“SCWA is very excited to partner with the world’s best-selling camo brand and its incredible team members and partners. TrueTimber has stepped up as an outdoor industry leader in support of passing on our outdoor heritage to the next generation.” said SCWA CEO David Wielicki.  “The future looks bright thanks to Outdoor Industry leaders like TrueTimber.”

Federal Ammunition congratulates sponsored shooter Vincent Hancock, a three-time Olympic champion, on bringing home two more ISSF World Cup medals from Morrocco.  Hancock won silver in Men’s Skeet and gold in the Skeet Mixed Team event in Rabat, Morrocco, during the shotgun world cup event held February 4-13, 2024.

In the Men’s Skeet competition, Hancock qualified in sixth place to make the finals.  During the medal competition, Hancock climbed the ladder with an excellent performance before being bested by Italy’s Tammaro Cassandro who missed just one target out of 60 in the finals. 

In the Mixed Team Skeet competition, Hancock and his teammate missed just one combined target out of 150 to qualify for the gold medal match.  Hancock continued his perfection in the finals shooting clean leading the American team over a team from Georgia by five targets to claim the gold medal.  “Another great international performance by Vincent,” says Jason Nash, Federal’s Vice President of Marketing.  “Vincent is a champion, and we look forward to the Paris selection matches in Tucson, AZ coming in March,” says Nash.

Federal is the number one choice for shotgun shells and manufactures products in America for all competitive and recreational disciplines. See the full lineup, including the latest High Over All, at www.federalpremium.com.

Federal ammunition can be found at dealers nationwide. For more information on all products from Federal or to shop online, visit www.federalpremium.com. To support America’s shooting team, visit www.usashooting.org to find out more.

Banshee Brands Inc. partners with Italian firearms manufacturer Breda to import, market, and provide sales support into the US market for hunting, competition, sport, and defensive shooting products.

Banshee Brands Inc.,  the importer of world-class brands for the outdoor industry, including RETAY USA® and Thomas Ferney & Co., proudly announces a new strategic partnership with Breda Italy, to form the Breda America Group. The iconic brand was founded in the late 19th century and is based in the historic firearms manufacturing center of Val Trompia, Brescia, Italy. For over 120 years, Breda has combined the latest techniques and technologies in firearms manufacturing with refined hand craftsmanship and meticulous finishing by Italy’s master artisans gunmakers.

“We are excited and honored to bring this renowned Italian luxury brand to the US market,” Christian Handy, CEO of Banshee Brands, said. “Breda has an incredibly strong international following and combined with our deep sales experience and established distribution, we are confident the brand will resonate with US hunters and competitive shooters, as well as pros in the military and law enforcement.”

Founded in Milan in 1861 by Ernesto Breda, the company began as a locomotive manufacturer and strategical assets as foundry production plants. By the turn of the century, it had grown into the leading armaments supplier to the Italian military, producing everything from small arms to artillery systems and aircraft. Numerous iconic firearms have been OEM manufactured under contract by Breda over the years. Since the beginning of 2000s the company employed innovative engineers like Bruno Civolani, considered the father of the modern inertia shotgun.

Through mergers and acquisitions, many of Breda’s divisions now operate under different names, while the private, family-owned arms and munitions manufacturing business retains the Breda designation. This division continues supplying military components and manufacturing both civilian and military firearms.

Remington Ammunition has officially kicked off the Full Safe Sweepstakes – Big Green’s biggest consumer sweepstakes yet.

Featuring a massive prize assortment from leading industry brands including Remington Arms, Remington Safes, Nighthawk Custom, Leupold Optics, Silencer Central, and Remington Ammunition, sweepstakes entrants can win one of two prize packages, detailed below.

With prizes valued at $10,000, every hunter and shooter will want to sign up for their chance to win.

To enter the Full Safe Sweepstakes, click here.

Grand Prize

Evolution Outdoor, a leader in the fishing, hunting and shooting industry, announces it will be attending the 2024 Sports Inc. February Outdoor Sporting Goods Show in Phoenix, Arizona. The event will be held at the Phoenix Convention Center from February 12 until February 15. Attendees are encouraged to stop by the Evolution Outdoor booth #1111 to check out the 2024 new products and more.

The Sports Inc. Sporting Goods Show is one of the foremost trade shows in the outdoor sports industry. Over 500 companies are estimated to attend, with buy group members able to browse and write orders for the latest sporting goods, apparel, technology, health items and more.

“We are thrilled to showcase every facet of Evolution Outdoor to such a diverse buy group,”

said Evolution Outdoor Executive Director of Sales and Marketing Colt Fadal. “We have new and innovative options across the board—from tactical to fishing to hunting and everything in between. The opportunity to meet with people from every corner of the sports and outdoors industry is very valuable, and we’re excited for the chance to continue to grow our presence.”

Evolution Outdoor Vice President of Sales Jeff Covert will be available to speak with attendees and is available by appointment as well. Attendees are free to stop by the booth or contact [email protected] to set up a specific meeting.

Primos® Hunting, a pioneer in game calls and hunting accessories, invites attendees of the 2024 National Wild Turkey Federation Sport Show in Nashville, Tennessee, to visit booth #1213 to meet Primos team members and to learn about the newest hunting products from the legendary manufacturer.

“Primos and the NWTF are two names that are synonymous with all things turkey and by supporting each other, we’ve enjoyed a long-standing relationship that goes well beyond games calls and accessories,” said Jason Harris, Director of Product and Marketing for Primos. “Together, we have promoted the benefits of conservation and have worked side-by-side to keep the passion of hunting and sportsmanship burning hot in every generation throughout our almost 50 years of shared history.”

As part of its Full Strut Sponsorship of this year’s convention, Primos will be involved in multiple events including co-sponsoring the 2024 Grand National Calling Championships, the conventions Kickoff Party Thursday evening and the social hot spot, the Waterin’ Hole.

Each day of the show, Primos Hunting staff will be displaying products and welcoming visitors. Both Will and Jimmy Primos are also slated to make appearances during the NWTF annual gathering along with the crew from Small Town Hunting. Author Brent Rodgers, will also be present in the Primos booth promoting his new book entitled Yelp & Gobble Inc. The new book highlights how efforts to restore the wild turkey helped spur a game call innovation boom. Rodgers and Will Primos will be hosting a seminar over the boom of turkey call making and Rodgers will be selling signed copies of the book in the Primos booth.

On Thursday evening, Primos sponsors the Grand National Turkey Calling Championship with Primos’ own turkey call designer Travis Ham looking to defend his 2023 national title.

I am demanding when it comes to waterfowl gear. It must be able to hold up in extremely harsh conditions. Waterfowl hunting clothing is no different. It needs to be designed to keep you warm and dry. I recently had the chance to try out Kuiu’s new Flyway Insulated Vest from their Waterfowl collection. I decided to wear the Kuiu flyway vest while using a kayak to paddle into shallow waters to chase down birds.

This vest is rated for cold to frigid temperatures. I waited until the temperatures could put this vest to the test. The morning I decided to go, the temperatures were in the high teens to low 20s °F. The Fiberball® Insulation did precisely what it advertised it would do. It kept my core body temp warm and comfortable. I used this vest as my outer layer. I combined it with a base layer undershirt and a heavy hooded sweatshirt as the middle layer. I was worried that this might not be enough clothing to keep me warm. I used the adjustable hem cinch, which helped keep the vest close to my body and seemed to help trap the warm air near my chest.

The zippered chest pockets are the perfect size for keeping items such as keys, wallet, and a phone dry and secure. The YKK® zippers were easy to use even while wearing gloves in frigid temperatures. The upper hand pockets have a magnetic closure and are lined with Sherpa fleece. They kept my hands warm while waiting for birds to fly into range. The lower hand pockets are lined with Sherpa fleece and have a magnetic closure. I found these lower pockets perfect for holding extra shells.

One feature I did not think about until I got on the water was that this vest cuts the wind perfectly. The wind was blowing hard enough to push me around in my kayak, but it did not penetrate the vest.

The underarm gusseted pattern on the Kuiu flyway vest was large enough to allow unrestricted movement while paddling my kayak and when I was shooting. It felt like the vest was moving with me as I swung through shots and even when I used my paddle as a push pole while navigating the muck and mud of the shallow water I was hunting in.

DENVER (February 14, 2024) –Renovation Hunters, an Outdoor Channel original series, is embarking on season two where home improvement meets the outdoor lifestyle beginning on Friday, February 23 at 8:30 p.m. ET. Hosted by Hal Shaffer, hunter and outdoorsman, this series is dedicated to preserving the family tradition of the outdoors. Their mission is to ensure hunting, fishing, or vacation camps can be passed on to the next generation.

Over a period of eight days, the talented crew of Renovation Hunters dedicate their skills to do whatever it takes to ensure that family camp is the place where family memories will continue.  See the trials, mishaps, and fun, as Renovation Hunters comes to small towns to preserve family camps so everyone can enjoy the great outdoors again.

“Each episode is an amazing transformation of truly compelling stories of each family’s trials and tribulations. Over those eight days of renovations, you see where the Renovation Hunters crew makes dreams into a gifted reality,” shared host Hal Shaffer.

In a time where positive and uplifting shows are needed more than ever, each episode makes an impact not only on the family’s homes renovated, but also the Renovation Hunters crew themselves. “The reactions of some of these reveals have been so impactful to us,” continued Shaffer.  One that stands out is the final episode in Linesville, Penn. where the reaction from the family trump’s all others…we all slept better knowing just what that renovation meant to them.”

The talented crew of Renovation Hunters is made of home improvement specialists from all over the United States who love both their craft and the outdoors. The selection process is based on compelling video submissions. They go to work putting together a design that caters to the way the owners use the property, a truly custom design experience. This design is kept a secret from the owners until the camp is unveiled at the completion of the project. Renovations of this caliber, and under this kind of time restraint, require a team of specialized craftsmen.

The Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (Association) applauds the House of Representatives for passing the Wildlife Innovation and Longevity Driver Reauthorization Act (WILD Act, HR 5009) and the Supporting the Health of Aquatic Systems through Research, Knowledge, and Enhanced Dialogue Act (SHARKED Act, H.R. 4051). On February 5, the full House passed both bills by unanimous vote.

“We thank all members of the House for their commitment to furthering conservation partnerships,” said Chuck Sykes, Director of the Alabama Division of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries and President of the Association. “Final passage and enactment of these bills is critical to ensuring state agencies can maximize their limited resources with the strength of federal, tribal, NGO, and industry partners.”

Once enacted, the WILD Act will reauthorize the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (Partners Program), which has enabled restoration of more than six million acres of habitat since its inception in 1987.

“We thank Representatives Dingell (D-MI) and Joyce (R-OH) for championing reauthorization of the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program,” said Shannon Lott, Natural Resources Deputy Director of the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Here in Michigan, the program makes projects like the restoration of Riverbend West a reality, ensuring that the benefits of nature are more equitable and accessible for all members of the public to enjoy.”

The WILD Act will also the reauthorize the Multinational Species Conservation Funds, which helps conserve some of the world’s most iconic species, while the SHARKED Act will direct the Secretary of Commerce to establish a task force bringing together Regional Fishery Management Councils, Marine Fisheries Commissions, the National Marine Fisheries Service, coastal state fish and wildlife agencies, and other experts to identify and address shark depredation needs.

EDGEFIELD, S.C. — The National Wild Turkey Federation welcomes back APEX Ammunition as a Longbeard Sponsor for the upcoming Convention and Sport Show, Feb. 14-18, in Nashville, Tennessee.

“At APEX, the NWTF Convention holds a special place in our hearts,” said Jason Lonsberry, president and CEO, APEX Ammunition. “It’s more than just an event; it’s a profound connection to our shared passion for turkey hunting and conservation. We take pride in supporting this organization and its dedicated conservation efforts. Together, we stand as advocates for the great outdoors, contributing to a future where the thrill of turkey hunting and conservation go hand in hand for generations to come.”

APEX Ammunition — a veteran owned and operated company from Mississippi — returns as a sponsor and exhibitor of the NWTF Convention. As a Longbeard Sponsor, APEX is sponsoring the Delta Island Lampposts and elevators and is a co-sponsor of the Waterin’ Hole. Attendees can visit APEX Ammunition at booth 1445 in the exhibit hall to discover their current lineup of shotshells.

“We’re delighted to announce APEX’s return as a Longbeard Sponsor for our convention,” said Natalia Daniels, NWTF national director of corporate relations and licensing. “Their ongoing support throughout the year is deeply appreciated, and we value their meaningful partnership.”

The NWTF Convention and Sport Show, sponsored by Mossy Oak, kicks off with a Wednesday evening social and live music with Country Outdoors in the Waterin’ Hole. Official Convention activities commence on Thursday, Feb. 15, featuring rendezvous sessions, the evening’s Kickoff Party and the grand opening of the Sport Show floor, which will showcase more than 500 top vendors in the outdoor industry. Taking place from Thursday to Saturday, the NWTF Sport Show is free to attend for NWTF members and open to the public. The convention culminates with a worship service on Sunday, Feb. 18, marking the conclusion of the NWTF’s 48th annual Convention and Sport Show.

Like most hunters, I carry much more to the field than necessary. For several seasons, I have shrugged it off to the adage, “It is better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.” I vowed to become a minimalist turkey hunter this spring after some lengthy turkey vest hauls in the lingering southern heat last spring. In actuality, what turkey hunter needs four slate calls, nine mouth calls, three locator calls, two box calls, and all the other doodads we pack into our vests on a hunt? 

I searched the internet, stores, and even the inventory of bags I already own, looking for an answer. I found cross-body bags, hip packs, and fanny pack style bags, all perfect for field use and storing my gear. However, none fit my minimalist idea. Cross-body bags came the closest, but they still left a slinging bag of goods hanging around you when you tried to close the distance on a hot tom. The fanny pack style was more what I was looking for, but I couldn’t find one large enough but still out of the way, or they didn’t have the pockets I needed. 

Sitka Gear solved my problems and met my expectations of a minimalist solution by releasing the new Turkey Tool Belt. The perfect fanny-pack style pack with pockets dedicated to everything needed on a turkey hunt. 

Key Features

Sitka Gear put all the bells and whistles into the new Turkey Tool Belt. The practical feature-rich tool belt is an excellent solution for lightening their load or the ideal run and gun gear belt. 

Belt System

This call and gear management system starts with a lightweight belt that easily adjusts 30-46 inches with a snap buckle closure. The belt incorporates two hip pockets for gear essentials such as flashlights, headlamps, extra shells, chapstick, turkey tote, and a rangefinder. One of the gear pockets has a sewn-in elastic sleeve to hold up to three additional shells. Also on the belt is a removable water bottle pouch that secures to either side of the belt and a smaller magnetic top pouch that holds up to two locator calls. 

Hunting is an age-old practice that has been deeply rooted in human history as a means of survival and sustenance. While modern technology has introduced advanced tools and methods for humans to fend for themselves without hunting, the partnership between humans and dogs during this activity remains an enduring tradition. The synergy between man and canine creates a unique and effective dynamic in the pursuit of the game. Here are a few things you need to know about hunting with dogs.

Understanding Legalities and Ethics

There are two categories of hunting dogs: gun dogs and hounds. Gun dogs are training to find game in hiding or bring back flying games, while hounds can only pursue running. As you can imagine, hunting with dogs requires adherence to legal regulations and ethical standards. Different regions have specific rules regarding the use of dogs in hunting, including seasons, permissible breeds, and designated hunting areas. Understanding and respecting these laws is essential for maintaining the balance of ecosystems and preserving the integrity of the sport. Ethical considerations, such as ensuring a humane kill and respecting the environment, should always be at the forefront of any hunting expedition.

The Right Breeds for the Job

Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to hunting. Different breeds possess specific traits that make them well-suited for particular types of game. Pointers, retrievers, and setters excel in bird hunting due to their keen sense of smell and agility. On the other hand, hounds are known for their exceptional tracking abilities, making them ideal for pursuing larger game such as deer or boar.

Training is Key

Effective communication between the hunter and the dog is crucial for a successful hunt. Training your hunting companion is not just about obedience. It is about honing their natural instincts. Commands like ‘stay’, ‘fetch’, and ‘track’ need to be ingrained in your dog’s vocabulary. Consistent training builds trust and ensures that your canine partner understands their role in the hunt. Professional trainers can provide valuable guidance, but the bond formed during training is what truly makes a great hunting duo.

Safety Measures for Both Hunter and Hound

Safety is paramount in hunting. Equip your dog with a brightly colored vest for visibility, protect paws with suitable footwear if necessary, and invest in quality gear. This includes first aid kits. Prioritize safety with a vet visit for vaccinations, tick and flea control, and terrain-specific health considerations. Visit a vet like ortinganimalhospital.com, which offers a range of veterinary services for dogs. This proactive approach and safety gear ensure your dog is prepared against health risks.        

Real Avid, the leader in DIY for Guns®, is excited to announce that one of the company’s latest tools for shooters and DIY enthusiasts has earned an Editors’ Choice Award from the staff of On Target magazine.

The On Target Editors’ Choice Awards call out “The best-of-the-best in new guns, optics, ammo, and accessories” for the year, and for the 22nd annual awards, the Real Avid Master Gun Workstation receives that honor.

Said editor Ben Battles, “As of writing, we’ve been wrenchin’ on guns for the past four months with the help of the new Real Avid Master Gun Workstation and we’re not sure we’d ever be able to go back to using a standard gun vise again. Yes, it’s just that good…”

The Master Gun Workstation is a fully adjustable and portable support system for maintenance and modification work on long guns. Featuring a Trigger Clamp and Quick-Adjust Shuttle with form-fitting Gun Gripper yokes to keep the work piece secure, the Master Gun Workstation solves the problem of having a stable and adaptable support for cleaning, aftermarket modifications, repairs, or any task required for rifles and shotguns. An integrated leveling knob with +/- 3° of micro adjustment makes it perfect for optic mounting. The Master Gun Workstation is also compatible for use with Real Avid’s Smart-Assist Quick-Connect System – Essential 3-Pack with Smart-Dock. 

To learn more about Real Avid’s gun cleaning chemicals and tooling solutions designed for the do-it-yourself firearm owner, visit www.realavid.com