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Hunting Articles
Back To Main Picking the Best Rifle
Picking the right rifle for the big hunt is vitally important because it can
make or break the hunt itself. You never know what problems may arise from
having the wrong rifle at the hunt, so ensure that you have taken the time to
pick the best rifle for the job. There are a number of criteria points that
should be explored as you determine the best rifle for hunting, too. As you grow
as a hunter and learn more, you will be able to make your own decisions in terms
of picking a rifle for the hunt. For now, however, it is likely best that you
consider a bit of expert opinion.
There are many types of hunting rifles. Bolt-action, lever-action,
semi-automatic and pump-action rifles are just a few of the different types of
guns that hunters utilize in the big hunt. Within these types, there is also a
selection of different caliber types. Solving the great mystery of picking the
best rifle, then, means answering a few questions about the type of hunt you
will be on.
You will first need to consider your location. If you will be hunting in thick
brush, you will probably need a faster-loading gun that you can operate rather
quickly in tight spaces. With limited visibility on your hunt, you will likely
want a light gun that you can work with rather quickly. If you have a longer
distance to cover, you will probably want a rifle that offers you a great deal
of more control. Bolt-action rifles can give you that control, but they are hard
to work with in small quarters of space because of the mechanics of operation.
While some hunters may say that they have done so, it can be extremely
complicated to load a gun with a bolt-action loading mechanism while crouching
behind a bush. The movement alone could lose the prey.
You will also need to consider your type of prey. Most rifles are suitable for
killing deer of any kind. Again, the discussion ventures back to the location
distinction on this account. If you are killing smaller animals, however, you
may want a rifle that you can hold at a more “still” pace. This means that you
do not want to spend your time controlling the gun when you are trying to
control the shot. For this reason, many recommend going with a smaller
semi-automatic for hunting animals like rabbits or badgers. The skittish nature
of the animal can be offset by squeezing off a quick shot from a semi-automatic.
After you have determined your prey and your location, it may be time to pick a
rifle. Of course, there are many popular brand names within each subset of gun
type, but the reality is that you will need to find a gun that you find to be
most comfortable. You will look for strength and accuracy out of a bolt-action
gun, for example, which may lead you around to several gun stores before you
find the right one. You should also look for little extras on the gun, such as
adjustable triggers and thumb safety switches. Features like these will make
your gun a lot safer and a lot more user friendly.
After you have purchased your gun, you should get to know your gun. Take it
apart and put it back together again. Learn the ins and outs of your gun so that
you can be as safe as possible with it. You will need to know what ammunition it
is that your gun shoots. Find out the best way to maintain and store your gun,
too. Gun safety is of utter importance, so ensure that your new rifle is locked
away and stored in a safe place away from children or other family members that
may be curious about it. Always keep it unloaded when you are not using it and
never point it at another person.