Big Game

I had just shot the biggest black bear of my life. Thirty minutes later, I shot an even bigger one.

Handgun hunting tends to make every animal a memorable trophy. Although I personally prefer to take my handgun game at more sedate or reasonable distances. Knowing that the XP is capable of making solid hits on game at rifle distances allows me to carry it as a backup for those rare instances where getting closer isn’t possible.

In five days we killed five bears, for three of the hunters it was their first. This will keep a few extra elk calves alive through the spring, provide a pile of meat to the hunters, and make some fine memories.

If you are looking at an exotic destination for vacation and want to spend a couple of days hunting, look no further than the Hawaiian Islands.

In most of the US, an average boar black bear weighs 250 lbs and a sow 150lbs. The largest sow taken in this region was nearly 450lbs.

The author gets a surprise opportunity at a big mule deer. Full of adrenaline, his hands (and everything else) are shaking. The deer is close. Should he take the shot?

It was the sixth day of an Alaska bison hunt that had thrown numerous challenges at us requiring an ever-evolving plan; we’d blown through Plans A, B, and C and were currently throwing a Hail Mary as our days afield came to a close.

A hunter doesn’t have to be a taxidermist-in-training to cape their own animals; some practice and preparation can give a hunter many more options when they’re in the field staring at that animal of a lifetime, wherever it may be.

My eye caught movement directly in front of me about 20 yards into the brush and my hand dropped to the grip of my pistol as my brain registered what my eyes were seeing. A chocolate color phased black bear, gaining speed straight towards me.