view through riflescope and reticle

A Good Hunter Requires A Good Weapon: Check Out These Rifle Recommendations

Many things make a good hunter, and having the right hunting rifle is up there on the list.

Using the perfect rifle makes a massive difference in your hunting experience. So, lets take a closer look at some of the best hunting rifles of 2021.

But before that, let’s quickly go through some of the factors we considered when coming up with this list.

Hunting Rifles Buying Guide

Below is a list of things you should consider before buying a hunting rife:

1. Type Of Gun Stock

There are generally two types of rifle stocks to choose from: Synthetic and wooden stocks. Each comes with its own pros and cons, so it’s all a matter of picking your poison.

The advantage of synthetic stocks over wooden ones is they are usually lighter, so the rifle won’t be as cumbersome. Synthetic stocks are also more resistant to harsh hunting conditions.

wooden and synthetic rifle stock

Rifle stock can be wooden or synthetic and each has its own pros and cons.

On the flip side, the synthetic stocks are nowhere near as aesthetically pleasing as a nicely finished walnut stock.

And, while wooden stocks are usually more beautiful, they tend to be heavier and more sensitive to scratches, cracks, and discolorations.

So, you should consider how much value you put on the aesthetics of a hunting rifle before deciding.



2. Barrel Length

Shorter barrels are a favorite of most hunters since they usually make the rifle lighter and more maneuverable. On the other hand, longer barrels may make a gun cumbersome, but they typically provide better velocity. 

Some people would also argue that longer barrels are more powerful. 

weatherby vanguard rifle
Barrel length (like on this Weatherby Vanguard) can affect maneuverability, velocity and rifle weight.


3. Action

Lever and bolt action rifles are recommended to beginners and intermediate hunters. These guns are typically easier and safer to use. 

Seasoned hunters can afford the luxury of using semi-automatic rifles, which require more skill to operate. 

rifle action types
Here are the various rifle action types (photo credit: rcsdk12.org)


4. Weight

Weight is a crucial factor in rifle selection, since it directly affects your ability to operate the gun. Different people will have different preferences based on their level of fitness and other factors.

As we’ve already pointed out, the type of stock and length of the barrel you choose will also affect the overall weight of your gun.

If you want a lightweight rifle, look for something with a short barrel and synthetic stock. 





5. Scope Compatibility

Unless you are an experienced hunter with an acquired taste for the iron sight, a scope is an investment you cannot overlook. Scopes magnify the target to increase your precision.

There are many scopes to choose from. To ensure you are getting the right scope for your rifle, consider factors like reticle, magnification, size of lens, turrets, and the minutes of angle or MOA. 

You should know that scopes will add some weight to your rifle, and some of them may not work very well under certain weather conditions.



view through riflescope and reticle

There are many factors in choosing a scope for your rifle, such as reticle, MOA, lens size, etc.


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2021 Rifle Recommendation

Below are our rifle recommendations for 2021:

1. Model 48 Mountain Carbon Rifle By Nosler

Model 48 Mountain Carbon Rifle By Nosler
The Nosler M48 Mountain rifle

The Nosler M48 Mountain rifle was first introduced in 2019. This rifle is made using lightweight materials for better handling while delivering exquisite performance, making it one of the best guns for hunting, and the 2021 version of the gun has seen an introduction of two new chamberings.

The rifle is built around the Nosler M48 action, integrated into a carbon-wrapped barrel for insane sub-MOA accuracy. 

The mountain hunter stock is finished in an elegant granite green, while the steel surfaces are covered in tungsten grey, giving your rifle long-term protection against harsh weather conditions.

The gun weighs only 6 pounds and is perfectly balanced for enhanced maneuverability. 





2. Weatherby Vanguard (Synthetic)

weatherby vanguard synthetic stock rifle
Weatherby Vanguard (synthetic) rifle

The Weatherby Vanguard is the affordable alternative to the famous Mark V from the same manufacturer. Don’t mistake its affordability for weak performance, though. The rifle guarantees considerable power coupled with sub-MOA accuracy for the ultimate target hunt down.

The rifle is built using lightweight polymer stock. The material does a great job of handling tough hunting surroundings and extreme weather to give you an excellent feel and performance for years to come.

The barrel is 24 inches long for non-magnum and 240 Wby Mag, which is just enough for most hunters. 

It weighs 6.75 pounds. 


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3. Impulse Big Game Rifle By Savage

Impulse Big Game Rifle By Savage
Impulse Big Game Rifle By Savage Arms

This is without a doubt the most innovative hunting rifle we’ve come across in 2021.

It may look like a regular bolt action gun, but there is nothing regular about the speed of the follow-up shots it provides.

Savage has utilized the Hexlock straight-pull action to reduce the time it takes to make subsequent shots. This makes the Impulse Big Game one of the most instinctive hunting rifles on the market.

The rifle is built with a medium-contour fluted barrel to balance the weight. It’s available in different mags, including the .243Win, .300 Win Mag, .308 Win, and .300 WSM fed through a flush-fit detachable box mag. A sleek hazel green cerakote covers the metal surfaces.

At 8.8 pounds, the Impulse Big Game is heavier than the two rifles discussed above. However, its ingenious design achieves a remarkable balance that makes operating the gun feel effortless.



4. Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle

Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle
Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Rifle

The Ruger Mini-14 Ranch rifle is an excellent option for anyone looking for a versatile semi-automatic gun. The action is based on the M1 Garand and the M14, but it is scaled down to make the gun easier to handle and use.

There are multiple calibers to choose from here, including the .300 blackout and the .223 Remington. It comes with an intuitive iron sight, but there is also the option of mounting a scope.



You’ll also love the fact that the ejector is designed to throw cases in a downward trajectory, to keep them from hitting the scope. 

The Ruger Mini-14 features a steel barrel and receiver with a blue finishing and a hardwood stock with a ventilated handguard on the fore-end. 

The rifle weighs just 7 pounds. Ruger scope rings are included.



5. Remington Model 700 SPS Varmint

Remington Model 700 SPS Varmint
Remington Model 700 SPS Varmint

Remington 700 SPS Varmint is a budget-friendly hunting rifle that performs well where it matters the most. Besides predator and varmint shooting, the gun is also great for long-range tactical shooting

This rifle comes with a non-reflective barrel and receiver for perfect concealment and a blind mag to increase reliability. The fore-end of the contoured barrel is ventilated for better heat dissipation. It’s also drilled for easy scope mounting. The Model 700 SPS Varmint weighs around 8.5 pounds. 



Conclusion

That’s pretty much it for the best hunting rifles for 2021. These guns tick all the boxes from accuracy and power to durability, and that’s why they are highly recommended to both beginners and seasoned hunters

whitetail deer with fawn in field

How Long Are Deer Pregnant? | Gestation Calculator

Quickly find out the approximate conception or birthdate of whitetail, mule deer, elk and other types of deer species using the gestation calculator below!

gestation Calculator
Choose animal below and select “conception date” or “birth date” to calculate the corresponding birth or conception date.
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Pregnancy Length of Deer (How long until they give birth?)

When it comes to whitetail and other types of deer, there are two time periods during the year that are particularly fascinating.

For hunters, the “rut” is certainly an important time, as males seek out females for breeding. During this time, the woods and hunting grounds are alive with activity and often provide a hunter the best opportunity at the buck of a lifetime.


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And, while the conclusion of the rut often signals the end of hunting season for many, a different stage will soon begin. In the Spring and Summer months, does will begin birthing fawns that were conceived during the rut and a new part of the life cycle will begin.

If you frequent the woods during this time, you just might catch a peek at a small, spotted whitetail fawn. And, if you utilize trail cameras during the Summer months to keep tabs on your herd, a picture of a fawn is always a welcome surprise.

But, how long are deer pregnant before giving birth, and how can you figure out when the fawns will start dropping in your area?



What Is The Gestation period of Whitetail Deer

Since whitetail deer are one of the most popular game animals in North America, you might be wondering, what is the gestation period of whitetail deer?

To determine the approximate conception date of a whitetail fawn or the estimated birth date, you have to first know the gestation period (how long the baby deer is in the womb between conception and birth.)

whitetail doe with fawns

The spotted coat of a whitetail fawn is a beautiful thing to see. You have the best chance to see these young deer in May or June.

According to Mark K. Johnson, Professor at the School of Renewable Natural Resources at Louisiana State University, the gestation period for whitetail deer (Odocoileus virginianus) in the northern U.S. are similar to that of whitetail in the southern states, ranging from 193 to 205 days (Spring 2002 issue of Louisiana Agriculture).


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Based on those statistics, whitetail does bred in early November would likely be born in mid-May to early June. So, female whitetail deer are pregnant for about 6 and a half months.

If you happen to have trail cameras out during the Summer months, you may catch a photo or video of a fawn with its mother. The unmistakable spots on young fawns is beautiful to see until they begin to fade 3 to 4 months after birth.

Let’s take a look at some of the other types of deer and the gestation periods of each.



Mule Deer Gestation Period

According to a 2005 report published by the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the Wildlife Habitat Council, the gestation period of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionuslasts) an average of 200 days. So, the mule deer and whitetail have almost identical gestation periods.

mule deer doe

The pregnancy length of a mule deer is almost identical to that of the whitetail. (photo by Jeff Coldwell)



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Elk Gestation Period

While the number of days that whitetail deer and mule deer are pregnant is very similar, the elk (Cervus canadensishas) a longer pregnancy.

According the Minnesota Elk Breeders Association, the average gestation period for elk is approximately 246 days. The “rut” time period for elk ranges from late August to late October with calves typically being born in May or June.

female and bull elk

Bull elk have a gestation time of approximately 246 days.



Blacktail Deer

According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, the average gestation time for a black-tailed deer (Odocoileus hemionus columbianus), is approximately 203 days.

blacktail doe and fawn

Blacktail deer pregnancies lasts approximately 203 days. (photo by John Carron)

Chital (Axis) Deer

According to the Natural Science Research Lab at Texas Tech University, the gestation period for the Chital (Axis deer) ranges from 210-238 days.

axis chital male and female

Axis deer have a gestation range of 210-238 days.

Moose

Moose (Alces alces) calves are born any time from mid-May to early June after a gestation period of about 230 days, according to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

female moose and fawn

Moose calves are typically born from Mid-May to early June.

coffee over campfire

Camping Gear: 8 Necessities To Make The Most Of Your Experience

on . Posted in Blog, camping

One of the best outdoor activities a family can participate in is camping. And after the pandemic of 2020, many people were cooped at up home. So, what better cure for being inside than…. being outside!

And, what better way to find a renewed love for the world and the great outdoors than taking a trip into God’s creation to go camping!

So, maybe you’re looking forward to this new outdoor adventure and are wondering, “what do I need to go camping?”

vw van full of camping gear

Ok, so maybe you don’t need THIS to go camping, but there are some items you should definitely take on your trip!

So, we’re going to cover some of the must-have items you should get to make your trip safer and more enjoyable for you and for the family. And, we’ll also cover why each of the items on this camping necessities list is important.

  1. The Basics
  2. Tent
  3. Solar Powered Charger
  4. Fire Starter
  5. Pocket Knife / Multi-Tool
  6. First Aid Kit
  7. Map / GPS
  8. Flashlight / Lamp

Camping Necessities | Start With The Basics

Part of the beauty of camping is not having to worry so much about how you put together you look or how good you smell (ok, maybe smell is still important!)

But, even though you are going on an outdoor adventure, there are still some important things to remember when it comes to personal hygiene.

rolls of toilet paper

Be sure you don’t forget the toilet paper for your camping trip… OK, maybe not this much!

Soap, shampoo, toothpaste, toothbrush, and of course, toilet paper are all essential items to be sure you pack for your trip!

Also, be sure to bring your own bottles and containers for these items, because you wouldn’t want to leave any trash behind. (“Leave things better than you found” them is a good rule of thumb.)



Tent

The tent is certain at the core of your camping experience. Without a tent, you and your family are going to be exposed to potentially uncomfortable or harmful temperatures as well as insects.

There are various styles of tents, so you can go beyond the simple “unfold and pitch” style that you may have used in the past.

While there is a wide array of tent choices for camping, be sure to get one that is large enough for your family to fit comfortably inside of!

Some tents come with features such as compartments and solar panels. You can find even more options from stores like Kohls and other department or sporting goods stores.

There are even tents that connect to your car!

When purchasing a tent for your trip, make sure that it is large enough for your entire family to fit inside. (You wouldn’t want to sleep in a tent with no room to move!)




Solar-Powered Chargers

One of the liberating things about camping is being one with nature and making time to disconnect yourself from technology for a few days. However, that doesn’t mean you should completely stay away from technology. Some camping gear is powered by electricity, and these items can make the trip safer and potentially more enjoyable.

One example is solar powered chargers.



A solar-powered charger ensures that you have enough energy to last the entirety of your trip. And, while disconnecting from your phone is a good practice, in the event of an emergency, these chargers can also help you stay connected to emergency services through your smartphone. So, it’s a handy thing to have on your trip.



Fire Starters

The ability to start a fire with a few pieces of stones and some tinder is an essential skill for every camper. But, what if your matches get wet or your lighter stops working… what then?

You might be a skilled fire builder already. Or, maybe you’re a newbie to everything camping related. Either way, having a tool to help you build a fire is not to be overlooked.

public land hunting fire starter

Fire is essential for warmth and for cooking on your camping trip, so be sure you take a fire starter with you!

So, whether you will be taking the family on an ice fishing trip, or camping in warmer weather, a part of your arsenal should always be a fire starter.

Fire starters come in many forms and most of them fit in your pocket. The concept of the fire starter is simple: You strike an object into an abrasive material, which creates sparks for starting a fire.

Some fire starters are waterproof and these are the recommended type best you can buy for your trip.



Pocket Knife / Multi-Tool

Just like a fire starter, a pocket knife or utility tool is another must for all campers (and for just about anyone who loves exploring the great outdoors.)

A pocket knife or a multi-tool will feature all of the basic tools you need for camping. These can help you do various tasks such as cooking prep and various tasks related to campsite setup.

multi tool for camping

A multi-tool contains many helpful items that will assist you in multiple expected (and unexpected) camping situations.

A good multi-tool should have the basics like a knife, a screw, a saw, and a file. Most importantly, it should fit right in your pocket. Some pocket knives can be a bit bulky and these are usually models that you’d want to avoid if you are wanting to travel as light as possible, especially if you will be camping while backpack hunting.





First Aid Kit

Although you are going on your trip to relax and enjoy the great outdoors, you never know when when an unexpected accident could occur. After all, being able to respond to minor wounds and injuries is key in preventing more complex medical problems later on.

So, you should take the right steps to ensure that you are prepared for worst case scenarios, and that means always having a first aid kit.

first aid kit for backpack hunt

While you don’t want to think about an unexpected accident occurring, a first aid kit is an essential for every camping trip.

A good camping first aid kit should include essentials such as a disinfectant, bandages, surgical scissors, splints, and band-aids.

Remember, a first aid kit is used for minor injuries only. With more serious injuries, you should seek medical attention and go straight to a hospital.



Map Or GPS

Getting lost in the forest or in the mountains is no laughing matter.

Although some campsites have employees to help you find your way out, it’s still better to be safe than sorry. If you happen to go hiking, bringing a map or a device with built-in GPS (Global Positioning System) will help you find your way should you get lost.

woman hiking

You want to “get away,” but no one likes being lost. A map and/or GPS is a must have for every camping trip.

Ideally, we suggest getting a GPS in addition to a map. The GPS will give you your exact location, as well as an accurate depiction of the area. Moreover, reading a map does take some practice, so it’s best to have a device as well that is more intuitive and easier to use.



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Flashlight Or A Lamp

You’ve enjoyed a beautiful day out in nature and now it’s time to head off to sleep for the night. But first, you’ll need to put out the campfire. (This is a must, because a fire left unattended could spread.)

But after you’ve put out the campfire, you might still need a midnight snack or the occasional emergency bathroom break!



flashlight

Moonlight is great. But, a flashlight to see in the dark on an emergency bathroom break while camping is invaluable!

So, it might seem like a no-brainer, but be sure you have a flashlight or two for your camping trip.

After all, having an alternative light source is very important, especially if inclement weather makes starting a fire difficult.



Final Thoughts on camping necessities

So what better way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life than through camping?

And, as we’ve covered camping is one of the most enjoyable outdoor activities you can participate in. However, it can also be very difficult if you don’t prepare properly.



These 8 necessities for camping are certainly going to make your trip more enjoyable. After all, with less to worry about, you can take in more of the environment and just relax!

And be sure to pack the coffee!