The Turnbull Winchester 1886 rifle we tested is a spectacular firearm. The color casehardening, in particular, is extraordinary. We had zero malfunctions, the rifle shot well, and carried nicely in the hand and in a saddle scabbard. Accuracy was good.

Suddenly, I saw antlers showing at the edge of the timber. Josiah flopped down prone and readied for a shot as I ranged the bull at 205 yards. No shot offered, so I blew a soft cow mew. The antlers swiveled our way, and a moment later the bull answered with a bugle. Then he walked out of the timber…

A once-in-a-lifetime bull elk gives a split-second opportunity for a risky shot. He’s running broadside through medium-thick old growth Quaking Aspen timber at roughly 60 yards. Do you take the shot?

A big muley on restricted land tempts the hunter to take a high risk shot if he moves to a narrow opening on public land. It’s a 300 yard shot with a 10 yard window for success – Do you take the shot?

Springfield’s 2020 action is a descendant of the legendary Remington 700 design. Dual locking lugs, a fluted, nitride-coated bolt, EDM raceways, and dual cocking cams…

Exactly what you need for a western spot and stalk mule deer.

Smaller calibers and cartridges kick less. They tend to be accurate and are certainly easier to shoot well. Loaded with a premium bullet they penetrate deeply and create a devastating wound channel. They do everything a big, hard-kicking caliber can do, right?

There are as many differing opinions on what makes a great western hunting rifle, as there are western hunters.

Have a special someone in your life that loves to hunt? Father? Husband? Shirttail relative? Here’s a list of items that range from inexpensive to costly, little to big, subtle to showy. All are geared toward the serious hunter. All are awesome. Listed in no particular order.