Below you’ll find the main reasons why harvesting more does in Maine is good for the deer herd, Maine deer hunters, and Mainers alike. This post addresses the new 2022 laws on increased doe harvests.
As far as I can remember Maine has been trying to restore deer populations back to a healthy level. In the past, hunters would shoot any deer they would see because deer hunting was so difficult. For this reason, numbers were dropping and regulations were in place to protect does so that the population would rebound (antlerless restrictions).
Now Maine has a lot of deer and a lot of does due to these regulations, so it was a success. However, the population has started to grow too much so more does need to be harvested. Additionally, the buck-to-doe ratio is very skewed. There are many benefits to shooting more does in Maine, and I list a few of the most important below:
Reduce Maine Overpopulation of Deer
Better Overall Herd Health
More food/nutrition per individual deer.
Bigger Maine Bucks
Better nutrition per deer means better buck antler development.
Reduce the Spread of Disease
With CWD and other whitetail diseases getting moving towards Maine, it will help slow the spread of diseases.
More Exciting Maine Deer Hunting
Healthy Maine Buck-to-Doe Ratio
Artificially created high doe numbers from hunting regulations (buck-only harvests) have resulted in an increase in overall Maine herd numbers. This was by design to increase the overall population. However, the population in Maine is doing well now and numbers can be restored to a more natural equal ratio by harvesting more does.
Better Maine Rut Hunting
More even buck-to-doe ratios means that bucks will have to compete for does more than in the past. This means bucks will be fighting and running around in search of does more than in the past during the rut phases. This will likely result in more exciting deer hunting.
Final Thoughts
I think the new regulations are great for the deer herd, Mainers, and Maine deer hunters alike. These new laws will have the biggest effect in more populated areas where deer are concentrated. In bigger timber, there is a more natural buck-to-doe ratio already, especially in the northern half of the state (which is why less does tags are issued up there).
Maine Antler Restrictions
To further improve better deer hunting in Maine, antler restrictions could be implemented. There is a lot of controversy on this topic because of the different styles of hunting in Maine, tracking on snow for example, where you don’t have the luxury to count the points on an antler.
However, I think antler restrictions in the southern parts of the state where snow almost never occurs during the season and the woods are small would improve deer hunting. Especially with the increase in hunting pressure in the south. These areas aren’t conducive to tracking anyway.
Antler restrictions in the southern portion of the state would again improve the buck-to-doe ratio, increase buck numbers, create better rut hunting, and increase the average age class of bucks.
That said, I personally enjoy the challenge of trying to find and hunt big bucks when APRs are not in place, but it’s something to ponder.
The most comfortable tree saddles for saddle hunting have a lot of easy adjustments so that you can maintain comfort when hunting. If you’re tired of uncomfortable saddles or are new to saddle hunting and want to be sure you’ll get a saddle that you will enjoy yourself in, keep reading.
This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Of course, you are not obligated to use my links, but it does help fund these posts in hopes of bringing more value to you!
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Single Panel vs Double Panel Saddles For Hunting
Single-panel saddles utilize one piece of fabric to sit on whereas a double-panel saddle has two panels that can be moved independently. I’ve tried a lot of saddles and I haven’t necessarily found that one type is better than the other, it comes down to what feels better for you. I personally think the single panels are more comfortable.
Some saddle hunters believe that two-panel saddles are better because of more adjustability. However, as you’ll see in this post there are some single-panel saddles that have unique features that allow them to be even more comfortable than double-panel saddles.
Most Comfortable Hybrid Tree Saddle
JX3 Hybrid by JX3 Outdoors
Say goodbye to hip-pinching and numb legs & feet! Because of the metal frame, there is ZERO pinching at the hips or anywhere else like other saddles. Comfort is where the JX3 Hybrid really outshines conventional saddles. Check out my full review of the JX3 Hybrid.
I had no issues sitting in the JX3 Hybrid tree saddle for 10 hours straight. It’s like a recliner in a tree, making it one of the most comfortable tree saddles for hunting.JX3 Hybrid Maneuverability Using Lone Wolf Climbing Sticks with Ameristep Screw-In Step Platform
The JX3 Hybrid has a metal frame. This is unlike conventional saddles which are made entirely of fabric and rope. There are some major comfort benefits of the metal frame. One benefit of the metal frame is that even when you’re in awkward leaning trees the JX3 remains comfortable because the metal frame blocks the negative effects of gravity. In conventional tree saddles, gravity places more stress on your knees which makes them uncomfortable faster.
Metal Fork
Another benefit that the metal frame supports is the optional adjustable metal fork that can be attached to the frame which rests against the tree. With this fork, you separate yourself from the tree even further and gain more grip when maneuvering around the tree.
JX3 Hybrid Metal Fork Against Tree
Adjustable Backrest
The backrest is also adjustable, allowing for adjustments to be made easily in the field while being used. If you start getting tired of sitting in a certain way, you can make the adjustments so you recline comfortably again.
JX3 Hybrid Adjustable Backrest And Straps
Your body can fully relax in this saddle. If you want to take a nap for a while, it is easy to do so. You can’t nap well in other saddles because you can’t lean back in them for long periods of time. Additionally, when you lean forward your head and neck get kinked on the bridge strap. This is not the case with the JX3 Hybrid. Instead, it’s like being in a recliner in a tree. It’s truly incredibly comfortable and I can’t say enough good things about its comfort.
Dryad Drey Hybrid Hammock Saddle
The Drey is very comfortable and gives the JX3 Hybrid a run for its money. This saddle is much more lightweight and packable than the JX3 Hybrid and is almost as comfortable (although not quite as comfortable). However, you still get 80+% of the comfort, in most cases it is worth the reduced comfort, especially for serious mobile hunters.
Dryad Drey Hammock Saddle – Using it as a regular saddleDryad Drey Hammock Saddle Cocoon
Most Comfortable Single Panel Hunting Saddles
CRUZR XC
The Cruzr XC is another very comfortable tree saddle for hunting because of its upgradeable adjustable bridge (both length and position). Another innovative feature of this single-panel saddle is that it has extra pleats to easily adjust the size of the saddle while you’re in the tree. With these adjustments, there is no hip pinch which single-panel saddles are notorious for. For this reason, the Cruzr XC is one of the most comfortable and best overall hunting saddles on the market.
CRUZR XC Saddle
Tethrd Phantom
The Tethrd Phantom needs no introduction. It is one of the most popular saddles on the market and for good reason. The Phantom addresses hip pinch and has reduced the pinch from earlier models. It’s a very comfortable saddle for how packable, lightweight, and mobile it is.
Most Comfortable Double-Panel Hunting Saddles
CRUZR Archon
Cruzr shows up a second time in this review. This time it is a double-panel alternative. Double-panel saddles are generally more comfortable because of their increased adjustability. The Archon is very comfortable for this reason. However, it is surprising how comfortable its single-panel brother is (Cruzr XC).
More Saddle Hunting Resources:
Hopefully, you found this review of the most comfortable tree saddles for hunting helpful. Find the best saddle hunting information easily by navigating to one of my more specific articles:
The best Leupold scopes for hunting will fit your specific hunting needs so you get the most value out of your scope. This post has sorted the best short-range scopes, mid-range scopes, and long-range scopes by price. This way you can narrow down the best Leupold scope for you within your budget quickly.
This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Of course, you are not obligated to use my links, but it does help fund these posts in hopes of bringing more value to you!
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Leupold Scope Model Hierarchy (Least to Most Expensive)
Below I’ve narrowed down the best Vortex scope models for deer hunting. The crossed-out models indicate that better Vortex options are available for the price:
Best Leupold Rifle Scope Models For Hunting
The numbers in the names of the scope models correspond to the zoom ratios, for example:
VX-Freedom (Can be any zoom ratio)
VX-3HD (3:1 Zoom Ratio)
VX-5HD (5:1 Zoom Ratio)
VX-6HD (6:1 Zoom Ratio)
The Freedom is the least expensive and the 6HD is the most expensive option. Learn more about these scope models here.
Leupold VX vs Mark Series Scopes – What’s The Difference?
Leupold also has their Mark Series of scopes, for example:
Mark 3 HD (3:1 Zoom Ratio)
Mark 5 HD (5:1 Zoom Ratio)
Mark 6 (6:1 Zoom Ratio)
Mark 8 (8:1 Zoom Ratio)
The difference between the Leupold VX and Leupold Mark series scopes is the Mark models are made more suited for the military and long-range competition shooters whereas the VX models are better suited for hunters.
Best Short-Range Leupold Scopes For Hunting
Leupold VX-5HD 1-5×24
Leupold does not currently make a budget 1x magnification scope, you’ll have to jump up to the VX-6HD or VX-5HD for a 1x magnification. Although these scopes are in a higher price tier they are worth the money. This scope is also one of the lightest LPVOs on the market. The illumination works great in medium to low light but is not true daylight bright.
The VX-6HD 1-6×24 scope is essentially the same scope as the VX-5HD 1-5×24 but you get 1-6x magnification instead of 1-5x magnification. You’ll have to spend slightly more money but you get a bit more versatility with the 1:6 zoom ratio. So it is up to you to determine how important that extra reach is important for your hunting style.
Leupold’s VX-Freedom, for the money, is incredibly lightweight, durable, backed with a lifetime warranty, has very clear glass which makes it excellent in low-light hunting scenarios, and offers a generous 4.2-inches of eye relief. You can get illumination, for an additional cost. Anyplace you look this scope is getting just about a 5/5 star rating.
I would recommend the VX-5HD 2-10×42 as the next step up from the VX-Freedom for mid-range distances. The 2-10x magnification range is versatile and can be used pretty effectively at close range and at fairly long ranges. Because the VX-5HD is built around Leupold’s professional-grade optical system, it has excellent glass quality. FireDot Illumination is optional.
If you’re looking for one scope that can do it all, the VX-6HD 3-18×44 is the most versatile scope that Leupold offers. With this large magnification range, you can hunt in both close to long-range environments. This scope pays for itself when it saves you from buying a new gun and scope setup for different ranges.
Leupold’s VX-3HD with CDS (Custom Dial System) is one of the best long-range hunting rifle scopes for the money. What makes this scope unique is the CDS system where you can get a custom top dial for your scope that will allow you to easily and quickly adjust for distance based on your specific rifle ballistics.
In addition, this scope has excellent glass quality and is very lightweight for having a 50mm objective lens. You can get a FireDot illumination reticle for an additional cost. Leupold’s FireDot is one of the best and brightest illuminations. Anyplace you look this scope is getting just about a 5/5 star rating.
The Leupold VX-6HD 4-24×52 is Leupold’s most magnified scope in the VX-6 model series but is still versatile with a 4x minimum magnification. It is a bit heavy (25.5 oz) but that is to be expected with a long-range scope that needs larger glass to bring in more light. The 52mm objective lens and the 34mm tube do a great job of bringing in a lot of light so this scope can function at high magnifications in low-light hunting situations. The Custom Dial System (CDS) makes shooting at long range easier than ever. You can get a strictly long-range VX-5HD 7-35×56 scope but it’s less versatile.
The best Vortex hunting scopes for deer hunting will depend on how you like to deer hunt. By the end of this post, you will know which Vortex scope is best for you.
The best Vortex scopes for deer hunting will be budget-friendly without sacrificing build quality. This post has sorted the best short-range scopes, mid-range scopes, and long-range scopes by price. This way you can find the best scope within your budget quickly.
This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Of course, you are not obligated to use my links, but it does help fund these posts in hopes of bringing more value to you!
Table of Contents
Vortex’s Scope Hierarchy (Least to Most Expensive)
Below I’ve narrowed down the best Vortex scope models for deer hunting. The crossed-out models indicate that better Vortex options are available for the price:
Vortex Rifle Scope Models
Sonora – Get a Crossfire for about the same price
Copperhead – Get a Crossfire for about the same price
Crossfire
Diamondback
Venom – Buy a Diamondback Tactical instead
Strike Eagle – Either buy the less expensive Diamondback or upgrade to a Viper
Viper
Golden Eagle – Designed for long-range competition shooting, not deer hunting
The Vortex Crossfire II is one of the most well-known scopes on the market because of its low price, excellent reviews, and industry-leading warranty. You can buy this scope in different magnification ranges including this low-powered 1-4×24.
This scope is illuminated with a V-Brite reticle and has multiple illumination brightness options. If the battery dies on the Crossfire II it can still be used because the illuminated red dot will be replaced by a black dot.
The Crossfire II does have poorer sharpness and a pickier eye box compared to more expensive models. However, for the price, you can’t beat it.
The Crossfire II 3-9×40 version, like the 1-4×24, is one of the best hunting rifle scopes for the money. This version of the Crossfire II comes with multiple reticle options. One of which is an illuminated V-Brite reticle, just like the 1-4×24 but it is nice to have the option to choose whether you want an illuminated scope or not. This is one of the best mid-range illuminated scopes at this price.
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Reticle (more available)
The Vortex Diamondback doesn’t need much of an introduction, it is one of the best mid-range scopes for the money because it is a durable scope with an industry-leading lifetime warranty. This scope is time-tested (over 10 years) and has excellent reviews (5 out of 5) just about everywhere you look. This scope does not include illumination which helps keep the price low.
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical is a recent addition to the Diamondback line (in 2019). With this new addition comes one of the best long-range scopes for the money. It’s a First focal plane (FFP) scope with a Christmas tree style reticle and parallax adjustments for easier long-range shooting.
Additionally, it comes with tall exposed turrets for making quick in-field adjustments, it’s the only long-range scope in this review with a 30mm tube (bringing in more light), and it comes with that Vortex industry-leading lifetime warranty. This newcomer has excellent reviews (5 out of 5) just about everywhere you look.
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 is arguably the best of the best LPVO scope on the market for the money, it’s well worth the money because of how much value you get.
For example, it has a true 1x magnification, industry-leading warranty, crisp and clear glass, true daylight bright illumination, and excellent reviews it earns its spot as one of the best short-range LPVO hunting rifle scopes for the money.
This scope is so good it is often said to undermine Vortex’s Razor Series 1-6×24 LPVO scope (which are +/- 1500$). The Vortex Viper is much better than the Vortex Strike Eagle, so if you can save your money, buy on sale, or buy used, it is definitely worth it.
The Vortex Viper 2.5-10×44 is an excellent deer hunting scope for the price. This scope offers slightly more magnification versatility than your average 3-9×40. Also, the low-light abilities of the Viper are excellent. For example, it has a larger 44mm objective lens compared to your standard 40mm. Additionally, it also has a 30mm tube. For this reason, this scope does excellent in low light compared to Diamondback or Crossfire II.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 3-15×50 FFP (Mid/Long-Range)
One of Vortex’s best scopes for deer hunting is the 3-15×44 FFP. It’s a perfect scope for someone who wants a long-range rifle scope but also wants to have the ability to use it in closer-quarter situations. The 3-15x is a versatile magnification range and the 44mm is a nice balance between weight and low-light performance. Just about everywhere you look this scope gets 5/5 star reviews.
This low-powered LPVO hunting scope is one of the best for close-range deer hunting. This scope was built for speed having one of the truest and most accurate 1x magnifications you will find on the market. Additionally, the glass clarity and overall build quality are superb. There are really no cons with this scope except the price tag.
The Vortex Razor LHT is one of the top-of-the-line deer hunting scopes. It’s very lightweight (19.1 oz) which is by far the lightest long-range scope in this review which is very impressive given it has a 42mm objective lens and a 30mm tube (meaning it has a lot of glass). The larger objective lens, tube size, and glass quality allows more light-gathering capabilities, making it great for deer hunting low-light.
The Razor HD Gen II is perhaps the best Vortex long-range deer hunting scope if you need something with a higher magnification than 15x. It’s heavy because of the large 56mm objective lens and the large 34mm tube size. However, these are important for gathering light at those longer magnification ranges. The glass quality on this scope is superb.
Over the last 8 years of hunting big woods bucks in snow in Maine, I’ve tested most of the sights and scopes to figure out what would be the best option in different tracking scenarios. In this article, I give a few of the options I’ve tried, their pros and cons, and what I’ve currently landed on as my top choice.
I’ve used peep sights, red dots, and rifle scopes to track bucks on snow. In this article, I share my experiences with these different sights and scopes, their pros and cons, and what I think is best for different situations.
The best sights and scopes for tracking big woods bucks on snow will be able to handle cold, wet, icy, and snowy weather so that when the opportunity finally presents itself, they are up to the challenge. It is also important for scopes and sights to have fast target acquisition because you often only get a split second to shoot when tracking.
This article contains no affiliate links. I do not earn any affiliate income, nor am I partnered with any of these brands, ensuring a non-biased article.
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William’s Peep Sights
Pros
Peep sights are one of the best sights for tracking big woods bucks on snow. They can handle snowy conditions, especially in thick brush. Although you can get good with any sight, other open sights seem to have more room for error. Peep sights are also great because there is no magnification, so you can keep both eyes open for quick shooting. When the peephole gets filled with snow, you can blow it out or use a stick to scrape it out. This is faster and easier than trying to keep a scope clean, but honestly, not by much.
Cons
Although William’s peep sights will get the job done and are a great option, they do have some downsides. The biggest is that they are difficult to sight in because they move around a lot when you tighten the sight on the ramp, the harder you tighten the sight down it will want to move up on the ramp, so you have to plan for that forward movement. The screw that holds the sight in place also digs into and scars the ramp. Once you get it sighted in, it is helpful to mark the ramp so you can always reset the sight if it gets bumped. Although plenty of hunters like these sights for tracking, I do not recommend this sight anymore.
Remington 7600 with William’s Peep SightBenelli R1 with William’s Peep Sight
Skinner Peep Sights
Skinner sights are newer to the market than William’s peep sights, and I have not had an opportunity yet to try these out, but it seems like the consensus among the tracking community that these sights are more durable, reliable, and built more functionally than the William’s peep sights, with adjustability that won’t make it hard to sight in and ruin the metal on the sight.
The Trijicon TR24 is one of the best scopes for tracking bucks on snow. It has been around for a long time and is a popular Low-Power Variable Optic (LPVO) scope. It’s been out for over 10 years and is still going strong, and has been a favorite among trackers. I haven’t personally used this one, but I figured I’d mention it here for you to take into consideration. I’ve researched this scope a good bit, and here are some of the key points below:
True 1x Magnification
Cheaper 1x scopes don’t have a true 1x magnification, and others have a fish-eye effect at the edges of the scope, making it difficult to shoot with both eyes open. The Trijicon is a very true 1x power scope made to shoot with both eyes open, making it one of the best fast-acquisition scopes for tracking deer in the snow.
One of the most unique features of this rifle scope is that it uses AccuPoint fiber optics to illuminate the reticle, this means it does not need batteries to function. This is a great feature for trackers because technology does not always work the best in wet, snowy, cold conditions when tracking deer.
During the daytime, it’s illuminated very brightly by fiber optics, during low-light conditions tritium illuminates the reticle. The reflection from the snow also helps to keep this fiber optic reticle bright under the canopy.
The large triangle post-reticle has been a favorite among trackers for fast close-quarter shooting, but other reticles are available.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6X24
I have tested the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 for tracking on snow and it is no doubt a great scope. This scope is so good it is often said to undermine Vortex’s Razor Series 1-6×24 LPVO scope (which are +/- 2000$). The Vortex Viper is much better than the Vortex Strike Eagle, so if you can save your money or buy this scope used, it is worth it.
I liked this scope very much when I used it, except for one aspect: the weight. It is a heavy scope, and by putting a scope on your tracking rifle it makes it slightly more awkward to carry in the woods. So the awkwardness and weight combination left more to be desired for me.
Holosun AEMS Reflex Sight
After trying both the William’s Peep Sight and the Vortex Viper PST Gen II, I’ve currently landed on the Holosun AEMS. I’ve used it for one hunting season now and like it a lot. The benefit of the red dot is that you don’t need to align the front and rear sight. As soon as the dot is on the target pull the trigger, no matter where it is in the housing, that’s where the bullet will go. This fast-aquision is a big selling point for me.
Additionally, the AEMS has flat glass that covers the optics so that snow easily can be cleaned off the optic vs scopes and peep sights which can be a pain to keep clean. I also like that the AEMS sits kind of awkwardly high on the gun. It looks a little goofy and the check weld isn’t the best, but you’ll get used to it. The benefit of having it higher is that when snow falls on your gun, it doesn’t immediately fill up the optic, like it does when you’re using a peep sight. The AEMS also uses a closed emitter, so the light that emits the red dot is protected from the elements. The red dot can last for 5 years on one battery! You can read my in-depth Holosun AMES review here.
The new Holosun AEMS X2’s also just came out, which are the same footprint basically as the original AEMS with beneficial improvements, especially to the glass (basically it’s their 2nd iteration with AEMS to improve upon the original.)
Holosun AEMS Mounted on Remington 7600 Carbine
Scope Considerations For Tracking Bucks on Snow
Magnification & Short-Range LPVOs
If you’re hunting in dense cover, a magnified scope is not a good idea when tracking, as you will not be able to pick up the deer as fast. If you’re tracking in open ridges, you can get away with a 3-9×40, but even then, you’re never going to use a magnification over 6x, so a 1-6×24 LPVO is a better and lighter choice.
Snow In The Scope
Snow will fall into scopes which can make them more annoying than a peep sights for this reason. Be aware of this and bring materials and/or scope covers with you to keep your scope clean if you choose the scope route.
Scope Electronics
Cold, wet, icy, and snowy weather are the worst conditions for electronics. Be careful when buying any scope with electronics, and make sure it can still be used even if the battery dies.
Brands To Avoid When Buying Hunting Rifle Scopes
Nikon (they stopped producing rifle scopes)
Cheap off-brand Amazon scopes (not worth the money)
More Big Woods Deer Hunting Articles:
You might also like my other tracking articles if you enjoyed this article.
The best hunting rifle scopes for the money will be budget-friendly without sacrificing build quality. This post has sorted the best short-range scopes, mid-range scopes, and long-range scopes by price. This way you can find the best scope within your budget quickly.
This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Of course, you are not obligated to use my links, but it does help fund these posts in hopes of bringing more value to you!
Table of Contents
Terminology To Know When Buying Hunting Rifle Scopes
Best Short-Range LPVO Hunting Rifle Scopes For The Money
True 1x Magnification
Short-range hunting rifle scopes with a 1x magnification are great options for fast-paced and close-range shooting. This is because a 1x allows you to keep both eyes open just like regular iron sights. However, not all 1x scopes provide a true 1x experience, and low-quality 1x optics can have a fish-eye effect making it hard to shoot with both eyes open.
LPVO scopes with quality 1x magnification make target acquisition extremely fast because there is little to no change in your eyesight when you look through the scope. Not only are they great for close-range hunting but they also can be magnified and used for longer ranges. This makes them extremely versatile and is the reason for their growing popularity as LPVO design and manufacturing become better.
True Daylight Bright Illumination
True daylight bright LPVO optics are tough to find in budget LPVO options under 500$. Although cheaper scopes won’t likely have true daylight bright illuminations they will still work in most hunting scenarios. You can also shut them off and use the regular black reticle. Just be aware of this factor when buying a new hunting rifle scope.
Vortex Crossfire II 1-4X24 Budget LPVO Hunting Rifle Scope
The Vortex Crossfire II is one of the most well-known scopes on the market because of its low price, excellent reviews, and industry-leading warranty. You can buy this scope in different magnification ranges including this low-powered 1-4×24.
This scope is illuminated with a V-Brite reticle and has multiple illumination brightness options. If the battery dies on the Crossfire II it can still be used because the illuminated red dot will be replaced by a black dot.
The Crossfire II does have poorer sharpness and a pickier eye box compared to more expensive models. However, for the price, you can’t complain.
The Athlon Talos BTR 1-4×24 is another great short-range scope if you’re on a budget. It’s a unique 1-4 when compared to the other short-range scopes on this list because it has an exposed tactical turret. This scope has a great eye box and a very true 1x magnification.
This scope is illuminated and has multiple illumination brightness options. If the battery dies it can still be used because the illuminated red crosshairs will be replaced by black crosshairs.
The biggest downside to this scope is how big the body of the scope is which reduces the sight picture when trying to use both eyes.
Burris’ RT-6 is a 1-6×24 short-range rifle scope. However, it has the capability of reaching 6x magnification making it very versatile for longer range shooting than a 1-4×24. This is the best value 1-6x hunting scope in this review because the other 1-6x short-range scopes cost significantly more.
This scope is illuminated and has multiple illumination brightness options. If the battery dies it can still be used because the illuminated red circle and dot will just turn black like a regular scope. It appears that this scope only comes with the “Ballistic 5x” reticle, I wish more options were available.
Vortex Strike Eagle 1-6×24 Gen II Short-Range Hunting Rifle Scope
The Vortex Strike Eagle LPVO has the best field of view of any of the rifle scopes reviewed and has a forgiving eye box at low magnifications which is great for picking up animals quickly at short ranges. Because of the price, warranty, and great reviews, it’s earned its spot on the list as one of the best hunting rifle scopes for the money.
The fish-eye effect can make it difficult to use with both eyes open and the 1-8×24 version is known to have clarity issues at magnifications >6x. The illumination is pretty good, daylight visibility is about average for a scope in this price range. The only reticle available with this scope is the AR-BDC3.
The Trijicon Huron was designed specifically for hunters and is one of the most affordable scopes that Trijicon makes for this reason. Trijicon wanted to make something great for hunters that wouldn’t break the bank. This scope does not have illumination, which can be nice because it’s not always needed for hunters and it greatly reduces the overall price of the scope. The Huron is a lightweight scope with excellent glass making it a great LPVO option for hunters.
Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6X24 Short-Range Hunting Rifle Scope
The Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6×24 is arguably the best of the best LPVO scope on the market for the money. It does command a higher price but it’s well worth the money because of how much value you get.
For example, it has a true 1x magnification, industry-leading warranty, crisp and clear glass, true daylight bright illumination, and excellent reviews it earns its spot as one of the best short-range LPVO hunting rifle scopes for the money.
This scope is so good it is often said to undermine Vortex’s Razor Series 1-6×24 LPVO scope (which are +/- 2000$). The Vortex Viper is much better than the Vortex Strike Eagle, so if you can save your money, buy on sale, or buy used, it is definitely worth it.
The Trijicon TR24 has been around for a long time and is a popular LPVO scope and features a very true 1x magnification. It’s been out for over 10 years and is still going strong. One of the most unique features of this rifle scope is that it uses AccuPoint fiber optics to illuminate the reticle, this means it does not need batteries to function. During the daytime, it’s illuminated by fiber optics, during low-light conditions tritium illuminates the reticle.
This is also the lightest weight LPVO scope in this review. For the money, it’s tough to beat especially because its price has decreased in more recent years since the next generation TR-25 1-6×24 has come out.
The Athlon Neos is the most affordable mid-range hunting rifle scope in this review. It’s very inexpensive, yet it has excellent reviews everywhere. You have the option of buying an illuminated scope or other non-illuminated options. Athlon is a well-known optics brand with an excellent warranty. For the money, it’s tough to beat. One con of this scope is its weight when compared to the other scopes within this review (17 oz).
The Burris Fullfield E1 is a strong contender for being the top mid-range hunting rifle scope for the money. It’s a simple scope that just plain works great. It does not offer illumination but it’s rugged + lightweight which is a great combination for those who hunt on the move. This is the second-lightest scope in this entire review. Burris backs up their scopes with a lifetime warranty so you know you’re getting a quality product.
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Mid-Range Hunting Rifle Scope
The Crossfire II shows up a second time in this review. The 3-9×40 version, like the 1-4×24, is one of the best hunting rifle scopes for the money. This version of the Crossfire II comes with multiple reticle options. One of which is an illuminated V-Brite reticle, just like the 1-4×24 but it is nice to have the option to choose whether you want an illuminated scope or not. This is one of the best mid-range illuminated scopes at this price.
Vortex Crossfire II 3-9×40 Reticle (more available)
The Vortex Diamondback doesn’t need much of an introduction, it is one of the best mid-range scopes for the money because it is a durable scope with an industry-leading lifetime warranty. This scope is time-tested (over 10 years) and has excellent reviews (5 out of 5) just about everywhere you look. This scope does not include illumination which helps keep the price low.
Leupold’s VX-Freedom takes the cake for being the best mid-range hunting rifle scope for the money. Although, it is the most expensive scope you get a lot of value. For example, it is the lightest scope in this review, durable, backed with a lifetime warranty, has very clear glass which makes it excellent in low-light hunting scenarios, and offers a generous 4.2-inches of eye relief. You can get illumination, for an additional cost. The Leupold FireDot is excellent and is one of the brightest illuminations. Anyplace you look this scope is getting just about a 5/5 star rating.
The Burris Fullfield E1 might be the least expensive long-range hunting scope but it has a lot to offer. It comes with a parallax adjustment and two long-range reticle styles. This is the lightest long-range rifle scope in this review (15.3 oz) making it a great choice for long-range hunters that are on the move. Glass quality of this scope is excellent for the price.
The Athlon Argos HMR is an excellent long-range rifle scope for the money. The 50mm objective lens is great for bringing in more light at higher magnifications and in low-light scenarios. Because it is 50 mm there is more glass making it a fairly heavy scope. The wide magnification capabilities are great for being versatile in many different hunting scenarios, especially long-range. There are three types of reticles, and two of the three are illuminated.
The Vortex Diamondback Tactical is a recent addition to the Diamondback line (in 2019). With this new addition comes one of the best long-range scopes for the money. It’s a First focal plane (FFP) scope with a Christmas tree style reticle and parallax adjustments for easier long-range shooting.
Additionally, it comes with tall exposed turrets for making quick in-field adjustments, it’s the only long-range scope in this review with a 30mm tube (bringing in more light), and it comes with that Vortex industry-leading lifetime warranty. This newcomer has excellent reviews (5 out of 5) just about everywhere you look.
Burris Signature HD 3-15×44 Long-Range Hunting Rifle Scope
Yes, there’s another Burris on the list, this time it’s the Burris Signature HD. The reason this scope is one of the best long-range scopes for the money is because of its clarity and crisp glass (hence the HD). Also, the turrets are low-profile and are push/pull for locking and unlocking.
This scope comes with two different reticle types, one of which has the option of being illuminated. This is a simple scope that works very well and is backed by Burris’s Forever warranty.
The Maven CRS (Classic Rifle Scope) series is quite new to the market, it came out in January of 2023. The CRS.2 has high-quality glass made in Japan and it offers 88% light transmission. The 44mm objective lens is plenty big with the 88% light transmission for low light situations at high magnifications. It is the shortest long-range scope in this review and is one of the lightest. These scopes are durable and backed by Maven’s Unconditional Lifetime Warranty.
It is one of the more expensive riflescopes on this list but it is a great value because Maven is direct-to-consumerso they cut out the middle man. This allows their optics to be sold at lower prices. Basically, you can get better optics at lower prices.
Leupold’s VX-3HD with CDS (Custom Dial System) is one of the best long-range hunting rifle scopes for the money. What makes this scope unique is the CDS system where you can get a custom top dial for your scope that will allow you to easily and quickly adjust for distance based on your specific rifle ballistics.
In addition, this scope has excellent glass quality and is very lightweight for having a 50mm objective lens. You can get a FireDot illumination reticle for an additional cost. Leupold’s FireDot is one of the best and brightest illuminations. Anyplace you look this scope is getting just about a 5/5 star rating.
A deer can smell a maximum of about 15 miles away under absolutely perfect conditions. However, if you’re a hunter a deer likely won’t show any signs of concern after 1/4 or 1/2 mile depending on hunting pressure.
There is a difference between how far a deer can smell vs how far it is concerned about a smell. If you’re a hunter and are looking for more information on deer scenting capabilities, this post will give you some clarification.
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How Far Can Deer Smell
It’s hard to get an accurate distance because there’s a high variability of environmental factors to consider that affect a deer’s ability to smell. These factors include:
Wind Speed
Strength of Smell
Humidity
Barometric Pressure
Landscape Terrain
For this reason, better-studied information found on different animals including dogs, hogs, and bears help us to more accurately ballpark how far a deer can actually smell.
Scent Receptors: Deer vs Other Animals
Dogs generally have fewer scent receptors than white-tailed deer, yet dogs can smell humans up to 12 miles away under perfect conditions. So it is logical to assume that deer can smell even further than 12 miles away in perfect conditions.
There are no studies with solid scientific describing the number of scent receptors of different animals that I could find. I’ve included links to where I got my information below, using the best sources I could find.
Yes, deer can tell how far away a threat is by smell. When a scent is very weak or diluted it is less concerning to deer because they can tell how far away the threat is by the potency of the scent. As the potency of the scent increase so does a deer’s concern.
Hunting pressure would influence the degree to which the scent’s distance becomes threatening.
How Far Do Deer Worry About Human Odor?
In most hunting conditions deer are not going to feel threatened further than 1/2 mile away and probably more like 1/4 mile away. But it depends on how much you stink! If you’re taking scent control precautions you can trick deer into thinking you’re further away than you actually are.
A deer’s nose is its most powerful detection system for getting away from predators and they know how to use it, especially mature deer. Mature deer are more likely to be cautious of human odor at longer distances than younger deer. Although they are likely won’t run away at those 1/4 to 1/2 mile distances, mature deer often will avoid your general direction.
How Long Can Deer Smell Where You Walked?
A bloodhound can track animals up to 300 hours (13 days) old if the environmental conditions remain fair. The scent receptors of a bloodhound are around 300 million which is approximately the same as a white-tailed deer. So a deer can smell where you’ve walked for about two weeks. If you take scent control seriously you will lessen the potency of your scent trail and thus it will take less time for your scent to become undetectable again.
Will Deer Come Back After They’ve Smelled You?
Mature deer are much less likely to come back after they’ve smelled you if they are aware they are being hunted. Mature deer will quickly start avoiding the immediate area. Sometimes all it takes for mature deer to avoid the immediate area is to smell your trail to and from your treestand at night even after you’ve left. This will be influenced by the hunting pressure of a given area.
Younger deer will come back until they associate human odors with danger.
What Do Deer Smell On Humans?
Deer can smell just about anything on a human. Our breath, skin, hair, sweat, gas, saliva, and our own personal bacterial signatures (That unique smell when you walk into someone else’s house). And that’s just natural body processes. That’s not accounting for any scent you picked up in your car, at the gas station, food, clothes…etc. Basically, a deer can smell everything on a human.
How To Prevent Deer From Smelling You
There’s likely no way to completely camouflage your odor from a deer. However, I’ve found that you can reduce your odor to small enough amounts so deer think you’re farther away and to make deer think your scent is older than it really is. Thus, you are perceived as less threatening which may make the difference between a successful and unsuccessful hunt.
1. Play The Wind
Playing the wind is a great tactic and is the least expensive! However, mature deer know to put the wind in their favor as well so they will often sneak downwind of you. With the products below it is possible to hunt wrong wind directions or swirling winds if done properly.
2. Use Scent-Lok Activated Carbon Clothing
ScentLok uses activated carbon for maximum odor adsorption. Activated carbon naturally adsorbs human odor because it has a huge surface area. When used properly Scent-Lok clothing is very effective at reducing odor and preventing animals from smelling the hunter. The coverall is also the best style of clothing from keeping scent from escaping the body.
Rubber is naturally scent-free making them an excellent option for deer hunting. Footwear is very important to keep clean so that deer don’t catch on to your entrance and exit routes when going to and from your treestand.
OZonics OrionX Ozone Scent Eliminator is easily one of the absolute best pieces of gear for deer hunters because when placed next to the hunter in a treestand, it completely removes human order with Ozone. This tool removes one of the biggest challenges deer hunters face – a deer’s nose.
5. Stay Extra Clean and Unscented During Deer Season
It is important for hunters to be scent-free when hunting animals with strong olfactory senses, like deer. If the wind direction starts swirling a good scent control regime can be the difference between a successful and not successful hunt. Dead Down Wind makes a great scent killer kit.
Vegetation, like humans, also gives off what are called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). They’ll give off specific scents during their growing cycle. Deer are able to pick up on these scents just like they pick up on humans.
The distance a deer could smell apple trees or corn would depend on how big the plots were. For a small plot of corn and a few apple trees, it would be easy for a deer to smell them 1/4 mile away. For apple orchards and big corn fields, it would stand to reason that deer could smell the corn and apples up to 15 miles away.
More Deer Hunting Resources:
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This Benelli SuperNova review is based on 10 years of owning the shotgun, I have been able to put it to the test to find out what it can handle. In my experience, for the price, this shotgun is unmatched in comfort, versatility, and adjustability.
My experience with the SuperNova revolves around waterfowl, turkey, and upland bird hunting. In this Benelli Supernova review, I dive into the reasons I purchased the SuperNova over other manufacturers. I also cover aspects I feel are most important to touch on from my experiences with the SuperNova. Below is a list of the topics and subtopics this post will cover:
This post contains affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
Benelli SuperNova Price – How Much Is It?
Buying A New Benelli SuperNova
When purchasing a new shotgun price is the first thing I look at. For this reason, it was important to include the price in this Benelli SuperNova Review. I want to know how much benefit I’m getting back from the money I’m investing. The SuperNova is currently priced at $559 on Benelli’s Website.
However, you can find these shotguns new for around $500 at gun shops. You can check the most recent price on Guns.com which has new and used Benelli SuperNovas. They will ship guns to your nearest federally licensed gun shop if you decide to purchase.
Should You Buy A Used Benelli SuperNova?
Another option would be to buy a used SuperNova. I know, I hear you, you want that brand-new shiny shotgun – but hear me out. The SuperNova is a very reliable shotgun, pump-action shotguns, in general, are quite reliable. There isn’t much that can go wrong with them. For this reason, buying a used pump shotgun is not a bad option.
It’s A Popular Shotgun
Further, the SuperNova is a quite popular shotgun so if you spend a little time looking around your local gun shops you are apt to find one. Many times, used guns look just as good as brand-new ones. You can find used SuperNovas for only around $400! You’re getting a heck of a lot of a shotgun for $400. Depending on what you’re using the gun for you could take the 100-150$ you’ve saved and buy attachments and add-ons.
Where To Buy Used
If your local gun shops don’t have any in stock you can go to Guns.com which is one of the best websites for buying guns. Here you will also find used Benelli SuperNovas.
Benelli SuperNova Fit and Feel
Fit and feel is the most important aspect of buying a new gun. For this reason, it was important to include this topic in this Benelli SuperNova Review.
To achieve proper shotgun fit you should be able to close your eyes, bring the stock to your face, then open your eyes and be able to see perfectly down the sights without needing to make any adjustments. If you can’t do this with your shotgun then your accuracy will suffer. It does not matter how much a gun costs if you can’t shoulder your gun and have it come to your face naturally then you should not be using that gun.
This is how a shotgun should look when it comes to your face naturally. To achieve proper shotgun fit you should be able to close your eyes, bring the stock to your face, then open your eyes and be able to see perfectly down the sights without needing to make any adjustments.
Benelli SuperNova Shim Kit
With the SuperNova gone are the days of spending money on a gunsmith to have them do some quirky adjustment to your new gun so you can see down the barrel properly. A fantastic feature of the SuperNova (and all Benelli guns) is that the stock can be adjusted to fit anyone.
The SuperNova comes with shims that can be placed where the stock and receiver meet. The shims allow you to adjust the angle of the stock up, down, left and right (drop and cast) until it fits your face perfectly.
Having the option to adjust the cast allows left handed shooters to achieve a great fit as well. In my opinion, this is a huge win for Benelli and is something that lacked in other shotguns on the market in the same price range. To learn how to adjust drop and cast take a look at this Explanatory Video for the Super Black Eagle III (the process is the same).
The shim kit that comes with the Supernova allows you to adjust drop and cast so you can achieve a perfect fit with your shotgun.
Comb Height
In addition to the shim kit, the comb height can be adjusted on the SuperNova. This could be especially helpful if you decide to put a scope on your gun. Extra comb height will enable you to get a little extra facelift off your stock so your scope comes to your eye naturally.
Fit and feel is the most important factor in deciding whether is shotgun is right for you. I decided to purchase the SuperNova because of its ability to adjust to the individual shooter.
Safety Swapping
The safety on the SuperNova can be switched for left-handed shooters. Having the option to adjust the cast in addition to the safety allows left-handed shooters to feel right at home with this shotgun.
Benelli SuperNova Recoil
ComforTech® System
Have you been trying to decide between the SuperNova and the Nova? Other than a few subtle differences they are almost identical. The main difference is the SuperNova’s ComforTech stock. Benelli claims “The ComforTech® system reduces felt recoil by as much as 48% over the competition.” For this reason, the Supernova is a little more expensive (about 100$) than the Nova.
Benelli SuperNova Review: Parts of the Supernova ComforTech stock that aid in recoil reduction and adjustability.
When I first bought the gun, I was a teenager and I didn’t want a gun that was going to make me flinch and develop bad habits from having too much recoil. A 48% reduction in recoil over competitors was a big selling point for me. Even now that I’m older I still enjoy the recoil reduction. It saves my shoulder whether I’m shooting many small rounds or big 3.5-inch rounds.
Benelli does a good job of explaining ComforTech and how it can achieve great recoil reduction on their website through computer-aided design. They even compare the Benelli Super Black Eagle (without ComforTech) to the Benelli Super Black Eagle II (with ComforTech) so you can see the difference even in their own models.
Comparison of Benelli ComforTech Stock vs Regular Stock. Photo From Benelli Website
Limbsaver Recoil Pad
The original recoil pad that comes with the SuperNova is pretty nice. However, it did fall out and I lost it during a hunting trip. When researching how to get another recoil pad a stumbled upon a 3rd party manufacturer called Limbsaver. Limbsaver claimed their recoil pad could reduce felt recoil up to 70%.
This caught my eye as an additional way to reduce felt recoil. To me, the LimbSaver Classic Precision-Fit Recoil Pad with the ComforTech stock seemed like a dynamite combination. I’ve been using this combination for the past 4 years and I am very happy with the results. Also, this recoil pad screws into the stock so it won’t be falling out again.
LimbSaver Classic Precision-Fit Recoil Pad reduces felt recoil up to 70%. This recoil pad has been a welcomed combination in addition to the 48% reduced felt recoil the ComforTech stock offers.
The rubber allows the pad to compress slower into your shoulder reducing felt recoil and vibration. For this reason, I have been able to shoot more rounds with significantly less shoulder soreness.
It has the texture of a rubber band so when shouldering the SuperNova, it can grab loose clothing. However, it’s easily avoided by being conscious and for the extra recoil reduction, I am more than happy to make that compromise. If you really dislike any stickiness then the original ComforTech recoil pad works fine, but it’s much harder foam.
SuperNova Limbsaver Recoil Pad Installation
Before installing the recoil pad you can tell it is going to work well. Out of the box, you’ll immediately notice the nice squish of the rubber pad. Installing the recoil pad did take me a little time to figure out, once I figured it out it fit perfectly even for my synthetic model.
Limbsaver doesn’t specifically say that they make a recoil pad for the SuperNova. That being said, they do make one for the Nova. After doing a little digging I seem to remember that the Model that fits the Nova will fit the SuperNova as well. It may be worth a quick phone call to Limbsaver be sure. You can find their contact information here.
Benelli SuperNova Versatility
Even after 10 years, the competition has not taken any great strides to compete with the Benelli SuperNova in my opinion. It seems like the only shotgun manufacturer that sells a shotgun that can digest 2 ¾, 3, and 3 ½ inch shells, has a shimmable stock and adjustable comb, and be reasonably priced is Benelli. I don’t know why other manufacturers haven’t caught on but, in my mind, this makes Benelli the clear winner if you’re looking for a shotgun that is most versatile.
Remington’s 870 Express Magnum can take 3.5-inch shells but the stock can’t be adjusted unless you purchase a separate stock. Browning’s BPS can only handle 3-inch shells unless you buy a turkey model 12 GA or a 10 GA and the stock can’t be shimmed… and the list goes on.
Does this mean these shotguns aren’t great? Not at all. If these shotguns come up perfectly to your face when you shoulder the gun out of the box then shims aren’t necessary. All I am saying is that the SuperNova has more options so it makes the most sense for me.
Benelli SuperNova For Big Game Hunting
A 24-inch rifled slug barrel can be purchased separately for increased accuracy for hunting big game. This barrel can take slugs up to 3 inches. I haven’t personally used the SuperNova for big game other than turkey so I can’t necessarily speak to the performance. I prefer to use a rifle for larger game for increased performance at further distances. That being said, if I find myself in a shotgun only zone I wouldn’t hesitate to use the SuperNova, I’m confident it would perform just as well as it does for smaller game.
Benelli SuperNova Rifled Slug Shotgun with a scope and raised comb height. Photo from the Benelli Website.
Benelli SuperNova For Turkey Hunting
The SuperNova is a fantastic turkey hunting shotgun. I like being able to use 3.5-inch shells for extra knockdown power and the ability to shoot slightly longer distances. The option to use a full choke with 3.5-inch shells makes for a deadly turkey gun.
Benellei SuperNova For Home Defense
There is also an option to buy a SuperNova Tactical Pump shotgun as well. This gun is much shorter with an 18-inch barrel weighing in at 7.6 lbs. Unlike the non-tactical version, this gun comes with a drilled and tapped receiver. This means scopes and attachments can be added.
Benelli SuperNova Tactical Shotgun. Photo from the Benelli Website.
Benelli SuperNova Ammo and Chambering
When I was choosing a new shotgun, I wanted a gun that could do it all. From skeet shooting and woodcock hunting to turkey and goose hunting and everything in-between. With the ability of the SuperNova to handle 2 ¾, 3, 3 ½ loads I am able to use my gun in these situations.
Choke Tubes For The SuperNova
Not only can the SuperNova handle a wide variety of ammunition but it also comes with three choke tubes: improved cylinder, modified, and full choke. I purchased a skeet choke separately.
The ability to use a wide variety of ammunition combined with exchangeable choke tubes that change the spread of my pattern I am able to fine-tune my SuperNova to any shooting/hunting situation that is presented.
The SuperNova comes with three choke tubes. These include improved cylinder, modified, and full choke and further aid in the versatility of the shotgun. Choke tubes allow you to appropriately adjust the pellet density of your spread depending on what you’re hunting, for improved performance.
Benelli SuperNova Reliability & Durability
Benelli SuperNova Durability
When deciding which shotgun to buy, I knew that I wanted a shotgun that would withstand a beating. For this reason, it was important to include this section Benelli SuperNova Review.
I didn’t want to buy an ultra-expensive shotgun only to worry about scratching it. I wanted a gun that could take a beating and get dirty without feeling bad about it. The steel skeleton framework that’s over-molded with polymer really helps the strength and weather resistance of the SuperNova.
I put my SuperNova to the test throughout the years I’ve owned it, its durability is outstanding. The difference between my previous two shotguns and the SuperNova was quite apparent. My first shotgun I owned rusted easily and the second had parts vibrate off while shooting.
The SuperNova, on the other hand, is still going strong with no issues after 10 years. Sure, there are some scratches and a little rust but I’ll admit I’m not the best at keeping up with cleaning my guns either. I’ve used the gun in brackish tidal marshes, in the rain, in the snow, in sub-zero temps, dropped the gun in the mud, lost my gun in the bottom of a tidal marsh to be recovered hours later when the tide receded and busted through countless miles of thick cover with it. It still works just as well as the day I bought it.
Benelli SuperNova Reliability
Pump-action shotguns, in general, are reliable guns. They are less likely to malfunction from fouling and are better at cycling lighter rounds. That being said, nowadays the newer automatics are very reliable as well, they’re just expensive.
I have put thousands of rounds through my SuperNova in the last 10 years and have had no issues that were the fault of the gun. The only other issue I had was when using Black Cloud ammunition the gun would jam periodically. However, this was not the SuperNova’s fault. Black Cloud is well known for being a dirty round. After cleaning and switching ammo, the problem disappeared. The SuperNova gets the job done.
Benelli SuperNova Stripping and Cleaning
Tool-Less Breakdown
One of my favorite features and another big advantage of the SuperNova over the competition is its ease and convenience of stripping and cleaning. For this reason, it was important to include in this Benelli SuperNova Review. The SuperNova stripping process is completely tool-less! This is extremely useful because it gives you the option to break down the shotgun in the field if something were to happen.
To take apart the SuperNova you will need to unscrew the magazine cap. The small knob at the tip of the magazine cap is used to punch out two pins that are located in the receiver.The threads of the magazine cap can be used to further pull the pins out once the two pins have been started.The trigger assembly and forearm can be separated once the two pins are removed from the receiver.
Considerations and recommendations are always important when conducting gun reviews. For this reason, I’ve listed some of the most notable ones in this Benelli SuperNova Review below:
Barrel Length
When I first purchased my SuperNova I did much more waterfowl hunting than upland bird hunting so I purchased a 28” barrel. I like the extra length for waterfowl hunting because I feel I can swing better on birds. Now I do a lot of upland hunting as well. But in dense grouse and woodcock habitat, I think it would be nice to have a 26” barrel.
Having a shorter barrel would allow me to swing around brush a little better and lighten up the gun a smidge for long treks in the woods. Of course, barrel length is a preference thing so you should test out what lengths you like before you make a final decision. Just keep in mind that your interests may change as you grow with the gun.
Black Cloud Ammunition
I have used many different kinds of ammo with the SuperNova, and I do have to say to be careful when using Black Cloud ammunition. Prior to owning the SuperNova, Black Cloud was my favorite shotgun ammo. When shooting Black Cloud in the SuperNova it had trouble ejecting the shells after a while. After cleaning and switching to another type of ammo the problem disappeared.
Weight
The SuperNova is a little heavy weighing between 7.8 and 8.0 lbs depending on the barrel length. For hunters who strictly hunt upland game, you are probably better off getting a lighter gun. That being said, the weight of the gun is only slightly heavier than other pumps. Upland hunters are probably better off getting a gun with less firepower and more lightweight like a 20GA, Over/Under, or Side by Side. Keep in mind though, that a heavier gun means less recoil.
Safety Location
The safety is located on the front of the trigger guard. This could be potentially uncomfortable for those with shorter fingers. I definitely recommend getting one in your hands to try out in order to see if the distance to the safety is comfortable for you. For me, this is a non-issue because I have relatively large hands and can reach it just fine. In fact, I prefer having the safety in the front of the trigger housing because going from the safety to the trigger in quick action scenarios feels faster.
For example, you can complete the movement of going from the safety to the trigger in one fluid motion. Guns with a safety behind the trigger force you to start your movement behind the trigger, then move in front of the trigger, then back to pull the trigger. With the SuperNova all you have to do is move your finger forward to the safety (or already have it in position in anticipation), then come back and pull the trigger.
Benelli Supernova Review Conclusion
Overall over the last 10 years, I’ve been very happy with the SuperNova. It’s been able to handle everything I’ve thrown at it. If you need a shotgun that can do everything, and do it well, I highly recommend getting a SuperNova in your hands. Remarkably, even after 10 years I still believe that, for the price, the Benelli SuperNova shotgun is unmatched in comfort, versatility, and adjustability.
I hope this Benelli SuperNova review gave you some insight into why this gun is a great option for such a wide variety of people. You can find technical information and specifications on the SuperNova on the Benelli website. Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments below. What products do you want me to review?
More Firearm Reviews And Resources:
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This 2025 duck hunting gift guide has 51 best gifts for duck hunters, sorted by price, making it easy to find the perfect hunting gift (even for non-hunters). You’ll find hunting gift ideas for all types of hunters, at all budgets, and for any skill level.
If you’re a non-hunter you might be lost trying to decide what a duck hunter would actually want as a gift. I understand you’re trying to make a good gift choice which is why I’ve written brief summaries of the gifts explaining what they do and how duck hunters can benefit from the gift idea.
This post contains Amazon and other affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Of course, you are not obligated to use my links, but it does help fund these posts in hopes of bringing more value to you!
Table of Contents
Credibility of This Gift Guide
With over two decades of duck hunting experience and being a registered hunting guide and professional ecologist, I know a thing or two about what hunters want for gifts. I’ve personally used most of the gift ideas in this article or know from experience they would make great gifts.
Every item on our website reflects the same high standards I demand for my own hunting adventures. Many gift ideas are from hands-on gear reviews I’ve personally tested, ensuring quality. If you want to learn more about me, you can check out my About Page.
Best Gifts For Duck Hunters Under 25$
1. Duck Hunting Logbook & Journal
Animals tend to do similar things over the years depending on changes in habitat. By keeping records of hunts hunters can refer back to their notes to know what duck hunts were successful and which were not. This helps duck hunters put the pieces of the puzzle together in order to predict where the best place to hunt is during the upcoming hunting season.
If you’re purchasing a Christmas present, it’s the end of the year and new calendars are needed! Why not gift a duck hunting calendar instead of a regular boring calendar? Calendars are also one of the best budget duck hunting gifts if you’re looking for something simple.
Every duck hunter needs a place to store ammo. The Plano Ammo Box is a classic and has been around for a long time. The hard plastic is durable and the box makes a good seat if needed. The box is water essentially waterproof, it can handle any weather event. It just can’t be submerged underwater. It can also double as a seat when duck hunting with a cushion on top.
I own this shell box, it’s very durable and reliable and lives up to its 5-star rating.
4. Duck Call Lanyard
A duck call lanyard is a perfect gift for a hunter with a lot of calls. This lanyard is worn around the neck for easy accessibility and allows a hunter to place many different calls on the lanyard. Different species of waterfowl will make different noises and having quick access to the right call at the right time is key. This is another gift idea that lives up to its 5-star rating.
Don’t forget to grab an extra battery for your MOJO duck decoy. The battery life will decrease with age (which is expected) so it is always nice to have a back-up battery to extend the operation time of the Mojo. It’s also a great idea to have a backup battery for many other reasons such as forgetting a battery, breaking one, or losing one in the water. It never hurts to be prepared!
From my experience, extra Mojo batteries are worth every penny. When you’re dealing with electronics over water they tend to stop working over time, those extra batteries have saved many hunts over the years.
This is an inexpensive but fantastic-sounding duck call. I’ve used these calls for 10+ years and have turned many ducks into the decoys. They don’t require much practice to get good. They are excellent calls for both beginners and experienced hunters. The best part is they’re so confident you’ll like it that they offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee. If you’re looking for a great sound for a reasonable price this call is a great option and is one of the best gifts for a duck hunter.
Level up a duck hunter’s cooking skills with a wild game cookbook. This cookbook by the well-known hunter, Steven Rinella, offers cooking instructions and fantastic photography. Getting better at preparing wild-game meals is something every hunter can appreciate, making it one of the best gifts for hunters.
Rinella’s Meateater cookbook is one of the most well-known cookbooks on the market today and has excellent ratings. If you know a hunter who wants to improve their wild-game eating experience, this book would make an excellent gift. (Who knows, maybe you’ll selfishly benefit as well).
This is another cookbook by Hank Shaw that is specifically designed for cooking waterfowl, both wild and farmed. This cookbook is another great option for waterfowl hunters looking to level up their waterfowl cooking skills, making it a great gift.
The Duck, Duck, Goose, Cookbook is a great gift for duck hunters
Neoprene duck hunting decoy gloves make great gifts because they’re waterproof, keeping hands dry when handling decoys. This can be critical when temperatures are cold, otherwise, the remainder of the hunt may be very uncomfortable with wet and freezing hands. Neoprene gloves would be a welcomed gift by any waterfowl hunter, especially in cold climates.
These waterproof gloves keep hands dry when handling decoys
These rubber gloves are my personal favorites. They have a nice soft fleece-like insulation in them that keeps my hands warm and cozy on the coldest duck hunting days which is important for an enjoyable hunt. Not only are they warm but they are also waterproof, keeping hands dry when handling decoys or anything wet out on the water. They are also more durable and easily cleaned than neoprene. Hunting rubber decoy gloves make great gifts for duck hunters. Long rubber gloves would be a perfect gift for any waterfowl hunter.
Do you know anyone who is training their dog for duck hunting? These realistically shaped and sized training dummies would make a great gift. They are scent injectable and easy to throw. They also float so training to retrieve in water is not an issue with these. There are different dummies to choose from including; ducks, doves, grouse, and pheasant decoys.
A cast-iron pan is one of the best gifts for duck hunters because it’s inexpensive, conducts heat evenly, will last a lifetime, and helps favor meat if cared for properly. They’re also great for cooking while in the duck hunting blind or at hunting camp. For the price, this gift idea is hard to beat. They make perfect kitchenware gifts for duck hunters and can be used to cook over open flames.
If a hunter already has a GoPro you can bet they want more accessories for filming creativity. There are many to choose from, but you can get a large bundle of accessories for very cheap. These accessories will be valuable because the GoPro will be able to be worn in any way imaginable. For duck hunters, I would recommend getting an under-barrel GoPro mount for guns as a gift. Neweer makes a 50-in-1 GoPro accessory package that is only about 25$. This amount of accessories gives anyone great versatility to film how they want. Some of the key products in the package are the chest mount, head mount, and suction cup mount.
Get one of your favorite duck hunting photos printed on a slab of wood. The combination of a personalized photo on a unique slab of wood picture frame makes for one of the best Christmas gifts for hunters who seem to have everything.
Hand warmers are a duck hunter’s best friend. Keeping your hands warm is so important for an enjoyable hunt. These can be placed in gloves for 10+ hours of warmth. I also put mine in my boots and use them as toe warmers. You can’t go wrong with giving a bunch of hand warmers to a duck hunter, or any hunter for that matter. The reviews speak for themselves!
A replaceable blade knife is a top gift for duck hunters because it’s frustrating when hunters find out their knife has become dull and they didn’t think to bring a knife sharpening kit. Re-sharpening a knife is time-consuming and a hassle. A replaceable blade can be easily replaced in seconds saving time and headaches.
The knife is the quintessential tool for hunters, this unique knife is one of the best gifts for hunters
Sunglasses are a staple gear item for duck hunters. Waterfowl is usually flying in the sky, and the sky is usually bright, even on cloudy days. In addition, the sun and sky reflecting off the water are also bright. Having quality sunglasses will keep duck hunters from getting headaches after staring into the sky and water all day, and often days at a time. See a few recommended options below:
HUK Polarized Sunglasses For Duck Hunters
These are great budget duck hunting sunglasses
Having quality sunglasses will keep duck hunters from getting headaches after staring into the sky all day
18. Clay Pigeon Launcher Hunting Gift Idea & Activity
A clay pigeon launcher is an excellent gift for duck hunters to practice their wing-shooting skills. Additionally, it also creates the foundation for a fun activity that many people can get involved in together. In addition to being a fun activity, you’ll get some good wing-shooting practice in for the upcoming hunting season.
Getting wet and dirty when duck hunting from being in the elements and then getting in your vehicle will wear out seats over time. Seat covers keep their vehicle in good shape through the hunting seasons.
Gorla makes an affordable seat cover with excellent reviews. This seat cover is advertised for athletes to keep sweat off their car but will work well for hunting applications to keep the elements off your car. Gorla offers a lifetime satisfaction guarantee, so if you don’t like it get your money back!
Blind material can be used to camouflage a hunter’s duck boat or duck blind, or for creating quick blinds when hunting mobile. It also has many uses and is a very affordable gift. I use mine to drape over the duck boat when duck hunting in order to break up the hard lines of the boat for extra concealment.
Dog seat covers make excellent gifts for duck hunters. Waterfowl hunting and training can make a duck dog a wet, muddy, brushy, and stinky mess. Seat covers keep the pup safe and keep the vehicle clean, especially after duck hunting trips.
It’s a hammock-style design that covers the entire backseat with sidewalls. It fits most trucks, SUVs, and cars. It’s also waterproof so no mud or water will seep through, keeping the vehicle clean.
Seat covers keep the pup safe and keep the vehicle clean, especially after duck hunting trips.
If you know a hunter who has knives but is not into the idea of using replaceable blade knives, then the quintessential tool of the hunter needs to be maintained. Nothing is more annoying than trying to do something with a dull knife. A good quality knife sharpener will make it easy to get a sharp blade edge. This oil-free stone is a great option it only requires water to for sharpening.
The stone is double-sided, for coarse and fine sharpening which is key to getting those really dull blades sharp. It can sharpen any blade such as scissors, broadheads, hunting knives, and even axes! Another benefit is that also comes with an instruction manual for those new to sharpening. If you don’t like to read, one quick YouTube video and you’ll be ready to go.
Boot dryers are truly remarkable, and I can say this with confidence from firsthand experience: they might just be the ultimate gift for duck hunters. There’s nothing quite as uncomfortable as slipping into damp or wet boots, whether it’s due to sweat, rain, or accidentally going over your boots. These scenarios quickly lead to dreaded cold or frozen toes and feet.
However, with a quality boot dryer, such discomfort becomes a thing of the past. Simply place your boots on this dryer after a long day in the field, and they’ll emerge warm and dry, ready for your next hunt. This particular Peet boot dryer can dry all types of boots, including chest waders when folded down.
The ability to carry a dozen decoys at once is a blessing when traveling back and forth from hunting spots. There’s nothing more frustrating than having your hands or shoulders maxed out with decoys and not being able to carry anything else. A single large bag allows duck hunters to free their hands up for more equipment. This has helped me get all my equipment where it needs to go in one trip instead of making multiple trips.
These bags are also great because they separate decoys into individual slots so that they don’t get scratched up during transport. This keeps decoys in good condition for much longer than the decoys bags where you just stuff all decoys together.
A headlamp is a great gift for duck hunters because lights are a must in the dark. A headlamp keeps both hands free so you can carry other equipment and focus on the task at hand. Just don’t skimp on a good headlamp because cheap ones will break or stop working.
The Black Diamond Storm headlamp is a great headlamp for hunters because it is waterproof and dustproof, has red, green, and blue light settings, and takes replaceable AAA batteries. I like replaceable batteries because I can buy lithium batteries which are much more reliable in cold weather.
I wrote a post on the 8 Best Headlamps For Hunting if you’re looking for more in-depth headlamp information and more types of headlamps for hunters.
26. Howard Leight Sound Amplification Hearing Protection
Hearing protection is one of the best gifts you can get for a duck hunter. Keeping the ears protected during repeated shooting is essential for hearing longevity. If you know someone who needs a good pair of hearing protection they’ll appreciate it, and even more so in the long term.
The Howard Leight earmuffs are great because they have an adjustable amplification knob so you can still have conversations. However, as soon as the noise is too loud, the headphones will block it. Now there is no reason to not wear hearing protection. These headphones are time-tested and have a 4.5 rating with almost 25,000 reviews.
Marsh stools also make great gifts for duck hunters. An actual seat is much more comfortable and will be easier on a hunter’s back. Additionally, you’ll be able to see over the tall marsh grass without being fully exposed to waterfowl.
Decoys are almost always a necessary tool for duck hunters which is why they make great gifts. However not all decoys are created equal, some look more realistic than others. Realism is important when duck hunting because if decoys don’t look very real then ducks will avoid coming into shotgun range.
These decoys by Avian X are very realistic and have great reviews. I would recommend buying a 6 pack of early-season decoys, and a 6 pack of later-season decoys. This way the hunter you are buying for can mix and match to their liking depending on the time of year.
Regardless of the hunting method or preferences, a Leatherman multi-tool proves to be a valuable asset for all hunters. Manufactured in the USA and backed by a generous 25-year warranty, this 14-in-1 tool offers not only convenience but, based on my personal experience, becomes a reliable troubleshooter when things don’t go as planned or when gear needs quick fixes.
There have been numerous instances where the Leatherman has come to the rescue during hunting trips, whether for on-the-fly repairs or crafting an improvised walking stick to bridge a stream. Its versatility in less-than-ideal situations truly sets it apart as a practical gift choice for duck hunters. Moreover, it’s worth noting that these multi-tools find usefulness well beyond the hunting realm.
A Leatherman’s helpfulness in unideal situations makes them one of the best gifts for duck hunters
A thermos is a great gift for any hunter or outdoorsy person, especially duck hunters. Nothing lifts the spirits more than a warm beverage on those blustery cold days or a cold drink on those scorching days.RTIC is well-known for being one of the best companies for keeping drinks at the desired temperatures.
Nothing lifts the spirits more than a warm beverage on those blustery cold days or a cold drink on those scorching days.
31. Water-Resistant Vehicle Seat Covers For Duck Hunters
Getting wet and dirty from being in the elements and then repeatedly getting in your vehicle will wear out the seats. Seat covers keep their vehicle in good shape through the hunting seasons. Extra protection to vehicles is always appreciated especially during the duck hunting season when things often get wet, muddy, and dirty.
Carlson’s choke tubes are screwed into shotgun barrels to give hunters their desired shot-pattern density at distances they plan to be shooting. Having the right choke tube for the right situation will result in more success.
Seat cushions are great gifts for duck hunters for additional comfort because duck hunters often sit for long periods at a time. They’re great when placed on top of ammo boxes or in the duck boat. They also work great as backrests. This particular seat is awesome because it is made with 3-layers for both comfort and protection against the elements.
Ducks thrive in wet habitats, and waterproof duffle bags are an ideal choice for such environments. These bags serve multiple purposes, whether it’s ensuring your gear remains dry during hunting trips in the bed of your pickup truck, safeguarding equipment on a duck boat, or countless other situations where water is a concern. When you have a waterproof bag, you can confidently leave your worries about the elements behind.
Waterproof duffle bags are very handy to have in wetland duck habitats and are one of the top gifts for duck hunters
The GumLeaf Field Wellys are handcrafted boots in Europe and are made of 85% real rubber which prevents cracking. I’ve used these boots for over a year now and the rubber is holding up well against cracking. However, the softer and more supple rubber is less durable than boots with higher clay/plastic content. They are still more durable than neoprene though.
They are one of the most comfortable full-rubber boots that I’ve worn, their Vibram sole is very cushioning for long days on your feet. For me, the extra comfort and traction are worth the reduction in durability.
They are also surprisingly lightweight for a rubber 17.5-inch tall boot, weighing in at 1086g or 2.39 lbs per boot.
Waders are one of the best gifts for hunters because they have a variety of hunting applications. I use mine for hunting ducks, geese, and deer as well as scouting and fishing. They are great for marshes and swamps that are too deep for hip boots. Waders need to be durable. These waders are heat welded, have a durable neoprene cross-hatch finish, and offer generous extra knee/shin padding to reinforce and prevent punctures and leaks. The TideWe MAX5 waders below are quality budget waders, you can read my hands-on review here.
A high-quality duck hunting backpack offers efficient gear organization, durability, and comfort when carrying gear to your duck hunting spot. Padded straps and a waist belt provide comfort for long treks, essential for pursuing ducks in challenging terrain.
Camouflage patterns help you blend in, and ample storage space accommodates decoy anchors, ammunition, calls, and other duck hunting essentials. This backpack allows hunters to attach their decoys and shotgun to the bag to free up their hands. It also has a waterproof bottom to keep gear dry.
The ability to be warm when hunting with fewer layers means a more enjoyable time while waiting for ducks to decoy. A heated vest or sweatshirt will be appreciated during those cold duck hunting months and especially late-season mornings. I’ve listed some good options with high ratings below for you to check out:
It’s heated, but it also charges your phone! This sweatshirt has a 12-hour battery life and helps you stay warm with fewer layers. That means more mobility and extra heat when you need it which is important for cold mornings in the duck blind. This sweatshirt is washer and dryer-safe.
Hand muffs are basically gold to duck hunters in frigid temperatures. When hands are cold it’s hard to enjoy yourself or think about anything else until your hands become warm. Hand muffs are one of the best gifts for duck hunters for this reason. The Sitka hand muff uses Gore-Tex and Windstopper layers with Primaloft insulation to block wind and keep hands warm.
40. Hunting Smartwatches Are Cool Gifts For Hunters
Hunting smartwatches are one of the coolest gifts for hunters because of their customizability and abundance of cool hunting features. For example, smartwatches are helpful tools for hunters because they have GPS, ABC (Altimeter, Barometer, and a Compass), weather, sunrise times, sunset times, moon phases…and much more.
My article 7 Best Smartwatches For Hunting will help you choose the right smartwatch for the duck hunter in your life. The Garmin Instinct Solar is one of the best hunting smartwatches for the money. The screen has an integrated solar panel so the battery lasts longer between charges.
*Price At Time of Post
**Battery Life Depends on Settings
41. Insulated Soft Cooler Gift For Duck Hunters
Soft coolers are perfect for day-long trips to keep lunches and drinks cold and fresh while duck hunting. These coolers are waterproof, mildew, have a tear-resistant exterior, and have the remarkable ability to stay cold as you’d expect from YETI and RTIC. Hunters need to have gear that stands up to the elements, and these coolers do just that which is why they are one of the best gifts for duck hunters.
Instant Pots are great gifts for duck hunters because they provide variety, convenience, and efficiency in preparing meals with wild game meat. They’re great at tenderizing tougher wild game meat and there are a seemingly infinite number of instant pot recipes online to try. They are thoughtful and practical gifts for tastier wild game consumption.
These transportation trolly carts are an easy way to lighten the load when launching duck hunting canoes or kayaks. This is especially true when they need to be transported for long distances. Also, heavier canoes with motors are even more difficult to launch, these carts make the launching process a lot easier, making them perfect gifts for duck hunters with canoes or kayaks.
Guns are expensive, and cleaning them can be a hassle if proper cleaning gear isn’t owned. A gun cleaning kit is one of the best gifts for hunters because it makes cleaning guns hassle-free because there are specific tools for specific jobs. Otis is a well-known gun cleaning company and is not one of those cheap knock-offs. This kit has all of the tools a hunter will ever need for gun cleaning care.
A MOJO duck decoy is an excellent gift for a waterfowl hunter. The spinning wings from this motorized decoy can be seen and attract ducks from very far distances. The MOJO gives ducks confidence in a decoy setup, making them commit harder offering more opportunities and better shots. What duck hunter wouldn’t want better opportunities?
Jerky makers are awesome gifts for duck hunters. I personally love wild goose jerky as well. Being able to make your own jerky from wild-game is a great way to change things up as far as wild-game consumption. When making jerky you can flavor it to your liking and because it’s so tasty, it’s a great way to introduce others to eating wild game. The Cosori dehydrator comes with 50 recipes and 6 trays for dehydrating. It’s easy to use and easy to clean making it a great gift.
I tested 14 hunting binoculars to find the best ones for the money. It was clear after conducting this review that both the Athlon Midas G2 UHD and the Athlon Midas EDs are the best value binoculars and would make for a great gift. When compared to the Swarovski’s, there was a difference, but for hunting applications, there wasn’t a 10x difference in price. For the price difference, the Midas’s had, in my opinion, 80% of what the 1000$+ binoculars had to offer. See my review below:
48. Alps Layout Blind
Layout blinds are great gifts for hunters who do a lot of waterfowl hunting, especially for geese. Hunters are able to stay hidden in plain sight by lying down in a field inside one of these. The ALPS OutdoorZ Legend Layout Blind is comfortable, waterproof, and easily transportable. What separates the ALPS from other layout blinds is that it has a specially designed “zero gravity” chair that makes laying on the ground more comfortable than competitors.
The Tactacam is one of the best gifts for duck hunters trying to get epic film and interesting angles. The Tactacam is an action camera that is weatherproof, image-stabilized, 4K, offers 120 fps slow motion, and has 8x zoom. Zoom is a great feature and is something that is lacking in the GoPro. The Tactacam cameras are versatile and are easily mounted to scopes and bows in order to easily capture hunts. They also make a great backup in addition to a main camera to ensure you get the moment of truth on film.
This jacket is made specifically for duck hunters. It is a waterproof and GoreTex breathable jacket that is uninsulated so that hunters can keep layering clothes under this jacket as the hunting season progresses and gets colder. It is designed to keep waterfowl hunters dry throughout the entire hunting season. SITKA Gear makes high-quality and well-thought-out clothing specifically for hunters. This jacket even has a built-in duck call lanyard.
The new GoPro’s are fantastic for capturing hunts on film. They are one of the best gifts for hunters looking to get into filming hunts. The new internal computerized gimbal-like stabilization makes the footage look buttery smooth even with excessive movement. Not only do they have great stabilization but they also have 5K+ video, slow motion, and much more.
Drawing from my decades of duck hunting experience I’m confident you’ve found some great gifts that any duck hunter would be grateful to receive. Many of these gift ideas I personally use every time I go duck hunting.
Choosing the best calibers for deer hunting is not black and white. Different calibers have been created to get the best results in different scenarios. For example, average shot distance and deer body size are big factors to take into consideration when choosing the best caliber for your specific type of deer hunting.
Hunting rifles are expensive. To get the most for your money, it is important to buy a rifle caliber that will cover the widest range of deer hunting applications possible.
In this post, you’ll learn what the most versatile hunting rifle calibers are for deer hunting, and why…
Common Calibers For Deer Hunting
There are a lot of calibers for deer hunting, below is a list of some of the more common calibers used for deer hunting. But which is right for you?
.223 Remington
.243 Winchester
25-06 Remington
6.5 Creedmoor
6.5 PRC
270 Winchester
280 Remington
28 Nosler
7mm-08 Remington
7mm Remington Magnum
7mm Remington Ultra Magnum
30-30 Winchester
308 Winchester
30-06 Springfield
300 Winchester Magnum
300 Winchester Ultra Magnum
How To Choose The Best Caliber For Deer Hunting
To choose the best caliber for deer hunting there are three main criteria to take into consideration before making a purchase:
Landscape/Distance
Shooter Age, Size, and Experience
Deer Body Size
Landscape & Distance
The first criteria to consider is the landscape you’ll be hunting in. For example, are you hunting in wide-open landscapes where you’ll be shooting over 300-400 yards? Or do you live in heavily forested areas where most of your shots will be within 100 yards?
The reason you want to consider this is because some calibers shoot flatter so there is less bullet drop. Longer-range shooting will be more accurate with flatter shooting bullets. This will help you eliminate some of the other less flat-shooting options on the list.
If you’re not shooting long-range shots (within about 150-200 yards) then you don’t necessarily need a flat shooting round, and opens you up to a wider variety of calibers to choose from.
Shooter Age, Size, Experience
Another factor to consider is the age, size, and experience of the shooter. A high-powered rifle is probably not the best choice for a youngster or an inexperienced shooter. Instead, it’s probably a good idea to match the power of the rifle caliber to the shooter’s age, size, and experience.
Deer Body Size
Depending on where you live and the species of deer you are hunting will determine which is the best deer hunting caliber for you. For example, a small southern deer that weighs under 100 lbs does not require the same ballistics as a big northern deer that can weigh over 300 lbs on the hoof.
Best Long-Range Flat Shooting Deer Hunting Calibers
Most magnum cartridges are good options for long-range shooting because they’re bigger and hold more gunpowder than rifles that are not magnums. This means the bullet will shoot faster and flatter because it has more energy behind it. This is useful for long-range hunting because less bullet drop means more accurate shots.
Bullets also start losing their energy after they’ve been shot. The further a bullet travels the more energy it loses. A magnum rifle cartridge will keep its energy for longer distances than a non-magnum cartridge of an equal caliber. For this reason, magnum cartridges are often the go-to choice for long-range hunting.
However, you still need to make sure the bullet is big enough to effectively take down deer-sized targets at long range. So, a small caliber that can shoot very flat (like a .223) is not a good option for long-range deer hunting because lacks the energy.
That said, there are some very fast and flat-shooting calibers that are not magnums. One of the best non-magnum calibers includes the 28 Nosler which has excellent long-range ballistics.
Top 7 Best Long-Range Calibers For Deer Listed
6.5 PRC
7mm Remington Magnum
7mm Remington Ultra Magnum
28 Nosler
300 Winchester Magnum
300 Remington Ultra Magnum
300 PRC
Best Short To Medium Range Deer Hunting Calibers
When you’re hunting in those short to medium ranges you don’t need the flattest shooting rifle caliber. For this reason, you can select a rifle caliber that won’t have as much recoil and will be more enjoyable to shoot. At these closer ranges, the calibers listed below will still have plenty of energy behind them to take down any deer:
Top 5 Best Short To Medium Range Calibers For Deer Listed
.243 Winchester
.270 Winchester
7mm Remington Magnum
308 Winchester
30-06 Springfield
Best Deer Hunting Calibers For Youth and Beginners
These rifles have low recoil but plenty of knockdown power to take deer-sized big game. For this reason, they make great options for youth or beginners.
The 30-06 Springfield is on the more powerful end for a youth hunter or beginner. That said, a smaller grain bullet would help a lot in reducing recoil. As the hunter grows with the gun and becomes comfortable with it heavier bullets can be used.
Top 6 Best Youth & Beginner Deer Hunting Calibers Listed
.243 Winchester
6.5 Creedmoor
7mm-08 Remington
30-30 Winchester
308 Winchester
30-06 Springfield
Top 3 Long-Range Calibers For Youth/Beginner Hunters
Compared to the other long-range rifles on the market, these calibers are probably the best for youth hunters because of their long-range capabilities to recoil performance. The calibers listed below are still deadly at long range but are not as big of a bullet as a .30 caliber which will have more recoil. The calibers below are .284 caliber or under.
Additionally, these smaller calibers have good ballistic coefficients. This means their ability to overcome air resistance in flight is good, making them good long-range options.
7mm-Magnum
26 Nosler
28 Nosler
Best Deer Hunting Calibers For Bigger Deer
If you’re going to be hunting bigger deer in those colder climates of the mid-west and northern states then you’ll want to choose a caliber that will be able to take down these bigger animals. The calibers listed below will be able to take down these bigger deer without a problem.
Top 5 Best Deer Hunting Calibers For Big Deer Listed
270 Winchester
7mm Remington Magnum
308 Winchester
30-06 Springfield
300 Winchester Magnum
Best Deer Hunting Calibers For Smaller Deer
If the deer you’re hunting are smaller (around 100 lbs) compared to their mid-west and northern counterparts, then you don’t need as powerful of a rifle caliber. The calibers listed below are great options for smaller deer. These also make great guns for younger hunters or beginners.
Top 5 Best Deer Hunting Calibers For Smaller Deer Listed
.243 Winchester
25-06 Remington
6.5 Creedmoor
7mm-08 Remington
30-30 Winchester
Best All Around Deer Hunting Caliber
The 30-06 Springfield is the best all around caliber for deer hunting. It’s been around since 1906, hence the “06” in 30-06, and is still one of the most popular calibers for hunting on the market today because of its versatility and time-tested performance.
The 30-06 Springfield is a .30 caliber rifle, hence the “30” in 30-06. There are a lot of 30-caliber rifles on the market but there is a lot of variation in ballistics between .30 caliber rifles.
This caliber has great ammo availability, diverse bullet selection, and a range of power.
After reading this post you should have a good idea about which is the best caliber for deer hunting for you. As you can probably tell, the right caliber for deer hunting requires a balance of the different factors you will encounter while hunting. Additionally, shooter age, size, and experience also have a role in which caliber will be best.
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