Calibers

If you're looking for the best caliber for turkey hunting, consider a 12-gauge shotgun. With its power and pattern density, it's the most popular and versatile choice among hunters. Smaller shotguns, such as the 20-gauge or .410 bore, can also be effective, and so can certain rifle calibers (though be sure to check your state's rifle laws before heading out).

The 12-gauge is a go-to turkey-hunting shotgun, but with modern ammunition such as Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), the 20-gauge is fast becoming an option for hunting birds at greater distances.

Squirrels, rabbits, and other small game offer unique opportunities to build hunting skills while managing animal populations and harvesting meat. With the proper equipment and guidance, you can improve your shots and minimize damage.

Many hunters hear about special muzzleloader seasons but aren't exactly sure what they are, or what makes a muzzleloader different from a rifle.

Accurate, reliable, and dependable, bolt action hunting rifles are the gold standard of rifles, trusted not only for hunting but also for military and law enforcement operations. 

I'm a big advocate for practicing different hunting methods. It's a great way to become a well-rounded hunter by practicing various aspects of bushcraft, preparation, and firearms usage. It also helps extend your season with options to hunt during less pressured periods and in different weather conditions. 

Pheasants travel with mind-blowing movement and speed, making hunting them a challenge in the best of circumstances. They're swift on the ground and in the air, and they can slip out of cover from different points. When the dogs are on and you're flushing deep coveys of roosters, you need to be able to bring down a pheasant without ruining the tender game meat. 

Some hunters say the .243 Winchester is ideal for mid-range shooting on whitetails (it shoots nice and flat), but ask others and you might get a different opinion. Determining the best caliber for one of the most sought-after deer species in North America is sure to lead to some lively discussions.

Every year, as spring draws closer, I find myself looking forward to certain activities and transitioning away from others. Even with as many squirrels and rabbits as I’d like to harvest this year, I find myself really looking forward to hunting gobblers in the coming weeks. 

Everybody is excited to get in the deer woods for rifle season or the opener of squirrel season. But, before you shoot that big buck or bring home a pouch full of squirrels, you need to decide what type of gun you're going to use, the caliber that is right for you, and what or how you're hunting with it.