Steven's Buck is a official Record Breaker

Now this is a perfect example of a magnificent whitetail and I want to congratulate the hunter who harvested it Mr. Brian Stevens.

Brian Stephens of Clayton poses with his record-setting buck at the official scoring session in Xenia on Saturday, Jan. 30.

By Jim Morris, Contributing columnist

XENIA — Antlers were everywhere. These weren’t just any old antlers. When the Ohio Division of Wildlife put on the official scoring session for the Stephens Buck on Saturday, Jan. 30, it was eventually displayed alongside replica mounts of two other record-setters — the Beatty Buck from 2000 and the Jerman Buck from 2004.

A group of about 30 people watched as the Stephens Buck, shot in Highland County on opening day of the 2009 deer gun season (Nov. 30) by Brian Stephens of Clayton, was officially scored. The non-typical rack measured 250 1/8 inches gross, 232 5/8 inches net.

Before any deer is officially scored by the Boone & Crockett Club and Ohio Big Bucks Club, it must dry 60 days from harvest. Sometimes the antlers will shrink a little between green scoring and dry scoring. In this case, they gained an eighth of an inch.

Read the complete story at Dayton daily News:

Muzzleloader Mishaps can happen to the Best of Us

I was visiting a new blog I started watching called "Gander's Muzzleloading Blog". On it there was a post titled "Rush it & This could happen to you! Muzzleloading safety". When I started reading and looking at the pictures I was amazed that the shooter which is the blog owner FrontierGander was luckily not injured. Here is part of his story,

"First time I ever had this happen, and hopefully the last. You might think 'this couldn't happen to me', and I must admit, I never entertained this happening to ME, with MY gun. However, this weekend changed all that."

I found a couple stories on some forums and i thought I'd share with you all on how important it is that you Pay Attention & do Not get Distracted while shooting & Especially Loading your Muzzle loader.

I was shooting alongside my son Jesse, and one of our neighbors, Bill, was coaching Jesse. I had one ear on what Bill was saying, and less than half my focus on what I was doing. I loaded powder and started the ball, and completely forgot to push the ball all the way down with the loading rod. In hindsight, I had no doubts, no niggling thought to check my gun if I wasn't sure of the load. Nothing. Nothing, that is, until the gun went off with the strangest sound. It didn't dawn on me that something was wrong until the smoke cleared, and the muzzle didn't look right.

To Read the complete story click on the banner below:

Savory Sunday's - #51

Leftover Turkey Casserole:

Here is a teaser for you to think about with the countdown to Spring Turkey Season.

By: Hope Robbins

"This is a great way to use up some of those Thanksgiving leftovers! It's easy to prepare, as well. Top it with gravy, and revisit the feast!"

Ingredients

• 1 (6 ounce) package dry bread stuffing mix
• 1 (16 ounce) container sour cream
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
• 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of celery soup
• 1 (1 ounce) package dry onion soup mix
• 2 (14.5 ounce) cans French-style green beans, drained
• 2 cups cooked, chopped turkey meat

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. Prepare stuffing according to package directions.
3. In a medium bowl, mix the sour cream, cream of mushroom soup, cream of celery soup and dry onion soup mix.
4. Spread the green beans in a 9x13 inch dish. Top with a layer of turkey. Pour the soup mixture over the turkey. Top with stuffing.
5. Bake in the preheated oven 30 minutes, or until browned and bubbly.

CVA Introduces New OPTIMA™ Muzzleloader

Here is another very nice muzzleloader that comes with/without the thumb hole. I gotta tell ya CVA has done a hole new line up for 2010 with some very nice changes.



FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DATE: January 13, 2010
Chad Schearer (406) 799-7984 FOR RELEASE: On Receipt
E-Mail: chad@bpiguns.com
David Meredith (770) 449-4687 Photos: www.cva.com/media
E-Mail: davidm@bpiguns.com Info: www.cva.com/rifles-opt.html


CVA Introduces New OPTIMA™ Muzzleloader
_________________________________________________________________________________

CVA has announced that it will introduce a brand new version of its popular OPTIMA muzzleloader at the SHOT Show. CVA’s original OPTIMA model, introduced way back in 2003, was the first affordable break-action muzzleloader to hit the market, and was the gun which arguably led to the “break-action revolution” by making the action style financially attainable for the masses of shooters. Now, in a move that Dudley McGarity, CEO of Blackpowder Products, Inc., owner of the CVA brand, says will “rock the market,” the “old OPTIMA” has been discontinued in favor of this completely new and improved design. “New stock, new action, new trigger, new barrel, and new breech plug – everything has changed, and everything is better,” says McGarity.

McGarity’s rundown on the new CVA OPTIMA begins with the ergonomically designed stocks, which are offered in both Standard and Thumbhole versions. The Standard Stock is designed for either open sight or scope shooting, and this version comes with fiber-optic open sights. The Thumbhole Stock, however, is designed with a higher comb that is exclusively for scope shooting and, therefore, comes standard with DuraSight® Dead-On™ Integral Mounts instead of open sights. So, not only is the Thumbhole OPTIMA appealing in look and feel, but the inclusion of the scope mount makes it an incredible value – as the mount alone sells for about $30. Both stock designs are offered in Black and Realtree Hardwoods Green Camo. As for the action, it is much more compact than that of the original gun, making the new OPTIMA both lighter (6.65 lbs.) and more compact. The trigger is the same proven system as used in the higher priced ACCURA and APEX models – which CVA dubs a “Neutral Center of Gravity Trigger Design,” and it is indeed incredibly crisp and clean. Barrels are fluted and are only offered in Stainless Steel – and this is REAL STAINLESS STEEL (416 grade), not the nickel plated or painted finishes that just look like the real thing. But most important, says McGarity, the new OPTIMA features CVA’s Quick Release Breech Plug System, or QRBP – the only easy removal system that really will remove without tools after the gun has been shot. CVA even has a video on their website that shows the QRBP being tested against competitive systems. “With a starting retail of under $300,” McGarity concludes, “the new OPTIMA is the most feature-packed middle price-point muzzleloader on the market – it’s just a better gun.”


CVA, a division of Blackpowder Products, Inc. and America’s #1 selling muzzleloading brand, offers a wide array of innovative hunting products – all at unmatched values. The company’s USA headquarters in Norcross, GA, handles all distribution. The guns are made at BPI’s ultra-modern, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Northern Spain, a region rich in European gun-making heritage. BPI is an industry leader in muzzleloading rifles and accessories, hunting rifles, hunting and shooting accessories and shooting components. BPI markets several popular brands, including CVA®, PowerBelt Bullets®, Bergara Barrels®, QuakeÒ Hunting Accessories and DuraSight® Scope Mounting Systems.

# # #

Tracking animals using your Iphone

I would like to add onto Thursday's post about animal tracks. I had received a comment from Jody "The Hunter's Wife" and she had mentioned about this guy she knows from tweeter that could be helpful and gave me his website address to check out.

The site is called "My Nature Site" and he has made it so you can look up animal track and stats right on your iphone. Please take a minute to view his Youtube video.



Animal Tracks

MyNature Animal Tracks is now available for the iPhone and iPod touch. We are pleased to offer the first comprehensible field guide to animal track identification available with smart-phone technology. You’ll be able to identify from the smallest Weasel to the largest Grizzly Bear found throughout North America at the touch of a button.

After viewing this I sure wish I had an iphone because this is one handy item to have for any outdoorsman or wildlife novice.

Podcast Interview with "Great Wild Outdoors"

Not long ago I had the pleasure and honor of being interviewed over the phone from Justin at "Great Wild Outdoors".

I'm not going to get to much into detail because I would like you to visit his blog and listen to the podcast just as long as you don't laugh at how funny I sound.

The Interview: Rick Kratzke - Featured Outdoors Blogger

Justin, I just wanted to say i appreciate you doing the interview about me and had a good time doing it. Thank you and keep up the good work on your blog.

Scout, CVA announces the first ever center-fire only gun for the brand

When I received this press release and read it I first thought I was dreaming. I had been looking for a single shot break open rifle for quite some time and this one sure fits my thought.
Check it out and let me know what you think.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DATE: January 13, 2010
Chad Schearer (406) 799-7984 FOR RELEASE: On Receipt
E-Mail: chad@bpiguns.com
David Meredith (770) 449-4687 Photos: www.cva.com/media
E-Mail: davidm@bpiguns.com Info: www.cva.com/rifles-scout.html

CVA Introduces the Scout™ Single Shot Rifle
_________________________________________________________________________________

CVA has announced that it will soon be shipping its new SCOUT™ rifle, the first ever center-fire only gun for the brand. With this new gun, CVA believes that it will redefine consumer expectations for affordable single-shot break action hunting rifles. The SCOUT is available in both the “standard” configuration for adults, as well as a “compact” version for younger shooters. In the standard SCOUT, calibers of .243, 7mm-08, .270, .30-06, and .35 Whelen are offered. The SCOUT COMPACT is offered in .243 only. The SCOUT will have a starting retail price of about $300.

As for specific features, the SCOUT sports an ergonomically designed synthetic stock, CrushZone recoil pad, and easy-to-use breaching mechanism. SCOUT rifles are available with barrels constructed of either blued carbon steel or 416 stainless steel – both featuring barrel fluting. Most models include a DuraSight® Dead-On™ Integral Scope Mount as standard equipment. The gun weighs in at a mere 5.8 lbs.

“After evaluating the competitive offerings currently available in entry level single shots, we could not help but notice how utilitarian these guns were.” says Dudley McGarity, CEO of Blackpowder Products, Inc., owner of the CVA brand. “Our marketing & design team felt that there was a great opportunity to improve both the styling and price-to-quality ratio in this category of fire-arms. We just knew that we could build a better gun.”

McGarity believes that just by comparing the SCOUT to the competitive offerings, shooters will instantly recognize the superior quality, balance, fit, and feel that the SCOUT provides. “But the comparison should not stop with the exterior features,” he explains. “The highly accurate CVA barrel on the SCOUT will also really set it apart from the competition.”



CVA, a division of Blackpowder Products, Inc. and America’s #1 selling muzzleloading brand, offers a wide array of innovative hunting products – all at unmatched values. The company’s USA headquarters in Norcross, GA, handles all distribution. The guns are made at BPI’s ultra-modern, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Northern Spain, a region rich in European gun-making heritage. BPI is an industry leader in muzzleloading rifles and accessories, hunting rifles, hunting and shooting accessories and shooting components. BPI markets several popular brands, including CVA®, PowerBelt Bullets®, Bergara Barrels®, QuakeÒ Hunting Accessories and DuraSight® Scope Mounting Systems.

# # #

Thor Bullets, the Full Bore Muzzleloading Bullet

Since I'm becoming a tester for BPI and I will be finally getting into what I have thought about for quite some time I am starting to shift a few processes of my thinking. I registered on this forum (I know I wasn't going to do forums anymore) that encompasses CVA and Powerbelt Bullets, hence the name "The Powerbelt Forum". It is an interesting forum because it is all about muzzleloader shooting and I am sure it will help and show me some stuff that I might not even know.

One new thing I learned about was Thor Bullets. I had never heard about them until today.
Mission Statement: To design and produce a superior full bore diameter in-line muzzle loader bullet that customers want to shoot!

Terry Oertwig, founder and owner of OPG Gun Ventures, LLC is an avid sportsman who has several patents in the shooting industry and several pending. His goal is to bring to market new products and innovations to the hunting industry that everyone can afford. The quest for a better muzzle loader bullet began in 2005, filing for the patent in 2006 and receiving the patent April 24, 2007. Being a reloader for 30 years who has tested many bullets, the choice of Barnes Bullets was easy, a superior performing bullet with an expansion and penetration design second to none.

Mr. Oertwig has shot over 5000 rounds through his muzzle loaders, testing, guns, bullets and powders.

The “Thor” bullet design of –bore specific- is to insure ease of loading and accuracy in an all copper bullet. As in every case there are some guns that will be more accurate than others, there are some guns that shoot the 250 grain better than the 300 and visa-versa.

I was able to call them and request a sizing kit where they will send me different sizes to try for free. That way I can get the exact diameter that shoots the best out of my gun. I shouls receive them in a few days.

It's time to unstuck my thinking and try newer products so as I can get as much as I can out of my equipment. After all experimenting and testing can be a lot of fun.

Get to know what Roams the woods beside's Humans

As I was out scouting the other day I noticed more tracks that were not deer tracks and when Tyler asked me what made the tracks all I had was guess's so here are a few examples to go by courtesy of this Massachusetts Animal tracks Guide.

The last time I went to Cabela's I remembered seeing a small book with animal tracks in it with measurements, where the animals lives with what it eats and all sorts of stuff. I think that will help Tyler as well as me. Guess I'm going to take a ride to Cabela's or the local book store. That would be better in my case, that way I wouldn't spend more than I am suppose to.

Safety Tip: Don't forget when you do go out in the woods for whatever reason it is a good idea to let someone you know (like a family member) the general area of where you are going to be and when you should be expected to return, just in case something should happen. It is also a good idea to carry a cell phone with you.

New Breech Plug Technology announced by Connecticut Valley Arms

This is some good news. I have seen the video for this new piece of technology and let me tell you I can't wait to try it. It will surely save some time in mainteneance & cleaning.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: DATE: January 13, 2010
Chad Schearer (406) 799-7984 FOR RELEASE: On Receipt
E-Mail: chad@bpiguns.com
David Meredith (770) 449-4687 Photos: www.cva.com/media
E-Mail: davidm@bpiguns.com Video: www.bpiguns.com/123dfg/



CVA Extends QRBP Technology To The Entire Break-Action Line
_________________________________________________________________________________

CVA announced at the SHOT Show that its patent-pending QRBP (Quick Release Breech Plug) technology will be extended to the entire CVA break-action muzzleloading rifle line in 2010. The QRBP design allows the breech plug to be removed from the gun by hand rather than with tools. Formerly, this feature was only available on the top-of-the-line APEX model. New 2010 model series that will include the QRBP are the WOLF, OPTIMA, and ACCURA V2.

“For sure, providing the QRBP in all of our break-actions really increases the value of our middle and lower price point guns,” says Dudley McGarity, CEO of Blackpowder Products Inc., owner of the CVA brand. “None of our competitors offer anything similar to the QRBP in an entry level gun.” But most important, says McGarity, is that the QRBP is the “only easy removal breech plug system that really will remove without tools after the gun has been shot. The T/C and Traditions systems will not function as advertised after shooting.” McGarity claims that his claim is backed up by testing and that the test can be viewed at www.bpiguns.com/123dfg/.


CVA, a division of Blackpowder Products, Inc. and America’s #1 selling muzzleloading brand, offers a wide array of innovative hunting products – all at unmatched values. The company’s USA headquarters in Norcross, GA, handles all distribution. The guns are made at BPI’s ultra-modern, state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Northern Spain, a region rich in European gun-making heritage. BPI is an industry leader in muzzleloading rifles and accessories, hunting rifles, hunting and shooting accessories and shooting components. BPI markets several popular brands, including CVA®, PowerBelt Bullets®, Bergara Barrels®, QuakeÒ Hunting Accessories and DuraSight® Scope Mounting Systems.

# # #

2009 Firearms Deer Season one of Safest on Record

We all know how hunting accidents can happen and that they do from state to state every year well here is a release from the CT. DEP that was good news for Connecticut hunters.

January 20, 2010

2009 Connecticut Firearms Deer Season Closes One of the Safest on Record

The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) today announced that with the close of the 2009 firearms deer hunting seasons on December 31, 2009, hunters in Connecticut enjoyed a second consecutive deer season without a firearm-related injury. More than 64,000 deer hunting permits are issued annually and deer hunters spend nearly 450,000 days afield each year. The only injury reported in 2009 involved a fall from a tree stand.

The private land muzzleloader and landowner deer seasons also closed on December 31. The archery season continues through January on private land only in deer management zones 11 and 12, which comprises Fairfield County and the shoreline towns.

"Connecticut hunters continue to be national leaders in hunting safety, due in large part to a mandatory firearms education regimen which has produced a safety-conscious generation of hunters," stated Charles Bruckerhoff, coordinator of the DEP Wildlife Division’s Conservation Education/Firearms Safety Program.

Since 1982, the Conservation Education/Firearms Safety Program has provided hunter safety courses to over 100,000 students taught by a dedicated corps of 328 volunteer instructors. Administration for the program, support staff, and all supplies and materials are funded through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, commonly referred to as the Pittman-Robertson Act. Funding for the program is derived from a federal excise tax on sporting arms and equipment, which is distributed to the states for use in hunter education, wildlife research and management, and land acquisition. The required match in non-federal funds is provided by in-kind time donated by the volunteer instructors. Instructors donate nearly 11,000 hours of their time each year conducting firearms, bowhunting, and trapping classes to ensure that students are safe, knowledgeable, and responsible in the pursuit of their outdoor activities.

A complete schedule or information about hunting safety courses can be obtained by contacting the DEP Wildlife Division at the Sessions Woods Wildlife Management Area at 860-675-8130 or Franklin Swamp Wildlife Management Area 860-642-7239. Course listings also are available on the DEP website (www.ct.gov/dep).

First Outing of 2010 shows good Deer Sign

I wanted to tell you about my first scouting trip of 2010 but first if you are reading this you will notice it is on a Tuesday which is where I always had Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's. I decided that I didn't want to be restricted anymore to have tips on a specific day of the week so I am doing away with that. In other words if I come up with a good tip to post on a Wednesday I don't want to wait a whole week to post it, you know what I mean. The only other day that is locked to a specific post is Savory Sunday's and that is staying where it is because I feel it fits.

Ok, my son Tyler and I went out scouting the Nipmuck State Forest Sunday afternoon for the first time. This is where I will be hunting during CT's no-lottery shotgun deer "A" season for 2010. Now this first are I wanted to look at was a lot thicker than what I expected. As we first started out I immediately saw a small buck rub on a pine which was nice to see. I incidentally found a few more of those as we made our way through pines and laurels.

Starting to notice a lot of coyote tracks made me pay more attention to what was around us. Still thicker than what I am used to hunting in I know the deer are in here so we moved on.

Finally coming to what I thought was a small ridge top was actually a very large shelf in a series of peaks and valleys which led down to a large pond. As I look around this shelf I started noticing deer tracks and looking closer I found a very well used trail which I followed for just a little bit. Now being I had Tyler and we were trudging through snow I didn't want to get him to tired where he wasn't enjoying it anymore so I backed up to where I first entered this shelf.

This I am calling Nipmuck stand location #1. I like this spot and I will tell you why. Standing where I am you are seeing a rock formation where I noticed a coyote I bed down under a small ledge on this formation. What I really like is to the left of that formation it goes up to another shelf. To the right of the rock formation before it drops down into a thick knarly valley there is a trail, the trail I mentioned that was heavily used.

What appears to me is that they are coming and or going from behind me according to this picture and using the trail to the right of the formation and going down that way.

To the left of the rock formation there is a clump of trees that I can place a stand in so it would hide me from the hill that goes up to the left and put me in range of the trail that goes by the rock formation to the right. There is enough cover so I should be fairly hidden. The only problem is getting to this spot. It is not going to be easy that for sure. I will have to look around some more to see if I can find a trail in or make one.

That is if they are still using this spot come fall. I will be watching.

Muzzleloaders - Part 4

Iron Sights & Scopes:

Back when I first started shooting a muzzleloader I used iron sights that were fairly easy to line up when need be but in my opinion were definatley able to allow for mis-judging.

Like the picture says the iron sight does come in handy for thick heavy brush. They are usually adjustable with the aide of s small screwdriver.

Through the years they has been advancements in iron sight that are more appealing and that is called Fiber Optics.

Fiber optics are truly a innovative piece to any weapon. They allow the least amout of light to be absorbed and almost light up themselves to be used in low light conditions.

It for sure helps in placing the front bead in the rear sight quicker and easier.

This sight to the right is from "William's Gun Sight Company" and can be bought from Cabela's for just $34.99.
Outfit your muzzleloader with these extreme high-visibility sights from Williams, the company that sets the standard for rifle and pistol-sighting systems. The front and rear Firesights® are different colors to precisely line up and stay on target.

As with anything age does catch up with things as it has my eye's, so I have to use the aide of optics such as scopes. There are so many styles of scope and so many different types of crosshair styles to choose from that i just can not mention it all. I will show you what I picked when I was putting my muzzleloader sytem together.

When I had decided to buy a CVA Wolf 50 caliber I had already known I wanted to fit it with a scope so as I searched their site I found what I was looking for.

This universal scope kit contained a Bushnell Sharpshooter 3-9x32 scope and I had my choice of Weaver rings and bases either regular or see-thru, I chose the see-thru.

see muzzleoaders have come a long way sinse the civil war lets say to now. From smooth bore barrels that could not shoot accurately enough to hit the broad side of a barn to rifled barrels that can be as accurate as a center fire rifle.

They have come so far from soaking my hawkin barrel in a tub of hot soapy water to help dissolve some of the black powder in it when cleaning to a break open receiver with a removable breech plug for easy access to cleaning the barrel with out even taking the gun apart.

There has been so many changes that it can be surprising to even the greenest of greenhorns. I would honestly have to say that if I had a favorite in my gun cabinet (not that I have alot of guns) I would have to say my muzzleloader. Even shooting a modern break open in-line such as my CVA Wolf you still have to load it from the muzzle and that is where the nostalgia comes in.

I hope this has been helpful to you and remember to come back next Monday for that last post in this series "Maintenance of your Black Powder Weapon".

Savory Sunday's - #50

Bacon Wrapped Venison Tenderloin:

Ingredients

• 2 lbs venison tenderloins (a single deer loin or Moose or Elk or Pork or Beef)
• 1/2 lb bacon (Plain, thin-sliced Bacon is best)
• 3 cups dark brown sugar
• 2 cups soy sauce (Regular NOT low-sodium. You'll want the saltiness)
• 1/4 cup white sugar (Optional for added Sweetness)

Directions

1. Mix brown Sugar and Soy sauce together in a bowl. They should combine nicely into a soupy soy liquid.
2. Put Deer Loin in a cooking tray and pour Brown Sugar/Soy Sauce mixture over loin. Roll tenderloin over in mixture, completely covering it.
3. Let meat marinate in mixture at least 3 hours or overnight in fridge. It's best to marinate for 8 hours if you have the time. Also GREAT to use a Food Saver or other Vacuum device to Vacuum pack/seal the meat with Marinade. With this method, you can achieve Overnight-level marinade in just a couple hours!
4. Remove loin from tray, and place on a slotted bake sheet with a drip pan or aluminum foil below to catch dripping. Don't throw away marinade.
5. Wrap a piece of bacon around the very end of the tenderloin, securing the bacon strip with a toothpick.
6. Repeat this process until the entire loin is wrapped in ten or so bacon "loops." The tenderloin should look like an arm with a bunch of wrist watches on it, the watches being the bacon strips.
7. Drizzle remaining marinade over deer loin. You can continue to baste the loin with the marinade throughout the cooking process with either a brush or a turkey baster.
8. Place on center rack in oven and bake at 350°F for 30-40* minutes. *This should cook the meat to about Medium. For those of you who prefer rare meat (like me), cut the time to 25-30 minutes and then follow with the "OPTION 2" step below regarding searing.
9. OPTION 1 - with about 10 minutes of cooking time left, you can lightly dust the top of the loin with white sugar. This creates a sweet crust on top of the bacon. Might be too sweet for some. Try doing it on just HALF of the loin to see if you like it!
10. OPTION 2 - For a crispier crust and crispier bacon, remove Loin from oven and place the Loin(s) directly on a Grill over medium-high heat to sear the bacon and outer loin. (Thanks to all of you reviewers who taught me this. It's a great step for those of us who like a cooked crust and a pink center).
11. Remove from oven and place on cutting board. Using a knife, cut the loin between each strip of bacon so that you have many pieces of meat, each with their own toothpick.
12. You can eat these pieces directly from the toothpick or remove the toothpick and eat like steak. You can thank me later.
13. The next day, try the leftovers on a wheat bun with spicy BBQ Saucefor an awesome leftover sandwich.

Bowhunting and the Memory of my Fist Shed Antler

Yesterday's post got me thinking and I thought of the first time I ever found a shed antler so here the story, I almost remember it like it was yesterday.

This story begins when I was still bowhunting and I had private land permission from my parents neighbor. The neighbor had 29 acres that swung around behind my parents house that consisted of a ridge of hardwood and a lower area of basically swamp. From memory it was a typical fall day during archery deer season. I do remember it was mid afternoon and the evening chill had not started to set in yet. I was heading for the ridge where I had a tree stand set up.

Every time I go out I try to take a different route so the deer would not catch a scent of me and this day found me sneaking through the swamp. It was slow going because of the wet areas that I had to maneuver through but once I gotto the other side it dried a little bit and opened up some. I was kind of taking my time so I slowly started working my way up to my stand.

I had heard a noise coming from over the other side of this small hill so I stopped quick. The noise kept coming and I started to look for something to hide behind because I was literally out in the open. When I started to move it felt like my pants were caught on something so as I quickly looked down I saw it was an antler.

I had no where to go and as I looked down at the antler I saw three does coming over the hill. It seemed like they were on a mission or something because they didn't care how much noise they were making until they got to the edge of the swamp and saw a odd figure standing there which was me.

I froze not knowing what to do with nothing moving but my eye's. I looked down at the antler that was stuck to my boot lace and three doe's standing in front of me about 20 yards away. It seemed like it took forever for one of us to move.

Finally the doe's felt comfortable enough to turn to the right and start heading up the other ridge right to where my stand was. As they turned to move I quickly brought up my bow and drew back (I already had an arrow nocked) and I judged the distance of a spot I thought they were going to cross. When they got there I made a noise and they stopped long enough for me to take a shot.

I was real close in my estimation of the yardage but I missed with nothing but a few hairs to show for it. The whole experience was stored in my memory and definately learned from for future use.

As far as the antler I obviously still have it and from the picture you can see how much the rodents were chewing on it. The tip of the main beam was so chewed that when I picked it up it fell off but you can still see it had four points to it.

Shed Hunting can cure those moments of Cabin Fever

Today I want to talk about antler sheds. Now that the season is over and you are (I am) still itching to get out in the woods, shed hunting can be a cure for those itchies. I believe you can find them anytime now and not just the end of winter either. One year I had shot a deer the day after Christmas with no antlers but had fresh bloody patchy. The taxidermist at the check in station said he had recently dropped them, boy was I surprised. Here are a couple short video's that got me wanted to head out.



This weekend probably Sunday I am planning to head out and look around. We have had a bit of snow melt which is odd but none the less I should be able to get out and look around.



It's a good idea and a good way to get a child involved with the outdoors. Last year I had taken Tyler with me and he literally had a blast. After three hours I was ready to go home and he was pleading to stay.

I plan to take him along with me some more this year. Plus I am under doctors orders to start eating better and exercise or else. I guess they didn't like the lab results from my last blood test.

Planning Shotgun season in the Nipmuck State Forest

This year I am going to be shotgun hunting in a totally new piece of state land. As I had mentioned in yesterday's post I had chosen differently which really is not a big deal. So I started researching the area and looking at some maps that I found on the net which is helping considerably but the bottom line is I will learn more by actually walking it.

I know I have quite a bit of time to prepare but I don't believe in waiting until the last minute. I want to be ready to lock and load before opening day so when I do go I can do it at my own pace, I can know in my head that I don't have to worry about anything but sitting there and enjoying myself.

Nipmuck State Forest - the 2nd State Forest

Nipmuck State Forest contains over 9,200 acres in the towns of Union, Stafford, Ashford, Willington, and Woodstock. The Snow Hill, Hedgehog Hill and Stickney Hill Blocks are located west of Interstate Route 84; the Breakneck Block is east of the highway.

The first tract of what was originally the Union State Forest was purchased for $3.57 an acre in 1905. State Forester Austin Hawes wanted the second State Forest to be in the pine type, as Connecticut had to import most of its softwood lumber. Eastern white pine competes successfully with hardwoods in this area, and eastern hemlock is also abundant. After land was acquired in other towns the forest was renamed Nipmuck State Forest in honor of the Nipmuck Indians.

As I do my scouting I plan to take pictures along the way for a couple of reasons. For 1. show I can post my progress and for 2. It makes it easy for reviewing certain aspects and landmarks later on in the comfort of my deer den.

Significant changes to the 2010 State Land Deer Season

I thought it important to mention about some changes to the Connecticut shotgun deer season for 2010. See when I was getting my license and permits online and it came time to pick permits I noticed that they didn't offer a shotgun deer lottery for "A" season but a no-lottery "A" season so stupid me I took that one. If I had investigated a littler further I would have notice the changed a few area's and made them no-lottery area's. The area I had been hunting for the last 19 seasons is still lottery and seeing as I purchased a no-lottery permit I can't choose another.

It's all good though because it's only for shotgun season, and it is still "A" and the area I will be in does have deer, I just have to do a little extra scouting to get familiar with it so worries.

DEER LOTTERY

There are significant changes that affect state land deer hunting in 2010. Areas 1, 3, 4, 5, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 23, 25 and 57 are no longer Lottery Areas. If you want to hunt on those areas, you should purchase either a No-Lottery "A" Season or a No-Lottery "B" Season Permit. The tables below list the hunting areas and permit types required for deer hunting during the "A" and "B" seasons. Remember, you are only allowed to purchase one type of state land shotgun deer permit; a State Land/Controlled Hunt Lottery Permit, a State Land No-Lottery "A" Permit, or a State Land No-Lottery "B" Permit.

FIREARMS DEER HUNTING PERMITS Available online, at most town clerks, and at some sporting good stores and DEP offices. A current firearms hunting license is required to apply. No one may purchase both a State Land Lottery Permit and a State Land No-Lottery Permit. If you are rejected for a lottery permit, you may still purchase a State Land No-Lottery permit.
Permit Type	Resident Fee	Non-Resident Fee	Opening Day	Application Deadline
State Land Lottery More Information "A" Season	$28.00	$100.00	Nov 17	June 1
State Land Lottery More Information "B" Season	$28.00	$100.00	Nov 27	June 1
State Land No-Lottery "A" Season Purchase Online	$28.00	$100.00	Nov 17	- -
State Land No-Lottery "B" Season Purchase Online	$28.00	$100.00	Nov 27	- -
Private Land Shotgun/Rifle Purchase Online	$28.00	$100.00	Nov 17	- -
Landowner Obtain Online	Free	Free	Nov 1	- -
State Land Muzzleloader Purchase Online	$28.00	$100.00	Dec 8	- -
Private Land Muzzleloader Purchase Online	$28.00	$100.00	Dec 8	- -

So with the new changes for this year I will be hunting shotgun state land no-lottery "A" season in the Nipmuck State Forest. That is not much farther away from my house than the SF that I have been hunting.

Hunting Areas Open for
No-Lottery "A" Season Permits
November 17 to November 26, 2010

You can hunt any of these areas during the "A" Season with a No-Lottery "A" Permit.

	Algonquin State Forest
	American Legion State Forest
	Centennial Watershed State Forest (Canaan Block)
	Ellithorpe Flood Control Area
	Goshen WMA
	Housatonic State Forest (including former Wickwire parcel)
	MDC - Colebrook Reservoir/Hogback Dam
	Mohegan State Forest (including Waldo Tract)
	Nassahegon State Forest
	Nepaug State Forest
	Nipmuck State Forest
	Pachaug State Forest
	Paugnut State Forest
	Peoples State Forest
	Quaddick State Forest
	Quinebaug River WMA
	Robbins Swamp WMA
	Shenipsit State Forest
	Spignesi WMA (formerly Pudding Hill WMA)
	Sugarbrook Field Trial Area
	Talbot WMA
	Tunxis State Forest
	West Thompson Dam

Trivia Challenge - Answer

So, did I stump anyone?

Here's your Answer,

Question: A buck will make a scrape and urinate and defecate in it and he will also have a branch above the scrape that he licks and gnaws on. Which one scrape or licking branch is used more for communicating.

Answer: The scrapes are used primarily to communicate during the fall breeding months and the licking branch is used by whitetails to communicate all year round, that is how they keep track of each other.

source of info: Realtree.com

Sportsman Channel Brings High-Definition Action To American Sportsmen

Being a supporter of the Sportsman Channel I just wanted to point out this press release if you have not already seen it.


Press Release:
01/19/2010

HD Channel Launches on January 25th

New York, NY (Jan. 19, 2010) – Sportsman Channel, the premiere all hunting, shooting and fishing network, announced today it would launch a high-definition version of its popular channel starting on January 25. Sportsman HD will simulcast the high-quality programming that is currently broadcast by Sportsman Channel in standard definition. The high-definition service will be made available to all television distribution partners beginning Jan. 25; initially, 33 percent of primetime programming will air in HD format, and it is expected that the majority of all programming on the network will be shown in high-definition by the third quarter. Sportsman HD will be co-located on the same satellite as the standard definition service and will be broadcast using the MPEG-4 format.

“Given our commitment to providing a superior viewing experience for American Sportsmen, we felt that it was essential to begin our HD offering at the start of 2010,” said Willy Burkhardt, president of Sportsman. “Sportsman HD viewers will be able to fully immerse themselves into the shows to feel like they are out in the tree stand or on the water with our hosts. High-definition, especially for nature scenes, takes the viewer experience to an entirely new level both audibly and visually.”

Sportsman Channel expects to announce its first group of distribution partners for its high-definition service in the first quarter of this year.

This is a transition year for Sportsman HD as programs that are already captured in high-definition, such as Back Country Quest, Family Traditions with Haley Heath, Guns & Ammo, Heartland Bowhunter, In-Fisherman TV, North American Whitetail, Predator Nation and Trout Unlimited: On the Rise, will be joined by an increasing number of productions. Burkhardt added, “HD television sets are becoming more widespread across America, and now we will have an appropriate home for our producers to offer their terrific programming in the highest quality format available.”

SPORTSMAN CHANNEL: Launched in 2003, Sportsman Channel is the only television and digital media company fully devoted to the more than 82 million sportsmen in the United States, delivering the most educational and entertaining hunting, shooting and fishing programming. Acquired by InterMedia Outdoors Holdings in 2006, Sportsman Channel is a part of the nation's largest multimedia company targeted exclusively to serving the information and entertainment needs of outdoors enthusiasts. For more information, visit www.thesportsmanchannel.com.

INTERMEDIA OUTDOORS: InterMedia Outdoors, Inc. is the largest media company in the outdoor-enthusiast category, exclusively serving the information and entertainment needs of the American Sportsman. The components of IMO include: a dominant network of websites dedicated to hunting, shooting and fishing; a portfolio of 15 magazines including powerful brands such as Petersen’s Hunting, North American Whitetail, Guns&Ammo, In-Fisherman, Fly Fisherman, and Florida Sportsman; syndicated radio programming; 23 market-leading television productions; the most comprehensive library of outdoors television programming anywhere; and Sportsman Channel, the only television network dedicated exclusively to hunting, shooting and fishing.

CONTACT: Amy Sorrells, Sedan Communications, 404-550-4885; amyssorrells@comcast.net
Michelle Scheuermann, Sportsman Channel, 262.432.9100 ex 111; mscheuermann@thesportsmanchannel.com

Tuesday's Tip's & Technique's - #73

Hunting the Edge:

Hunting the edge of state land and private land can be a tricky thing.

This past season I ran into that exact same situation. You want to know where all the boundries are and you need to be aware of where there might be private land structures that could be in the direction of your shooting.




What I had done when I realized what the deer where doing at the time was I went out on a Sunday when there was no hunting and i took a walk around and found the boundry markers and figured out what side was what and where.

I can remember an incident where a guy I knew had hit a deer on state land and went on private land. I was asked to help track so we found out who was the land owner and received permission to keep tracking.

We were very careful to make sure we closed gates because they did have horses and did not destroy any trees or anything. We did recover the deer and made sure we had stopped at the landowners house to say thank you for the permission.

So be aware of your surrounding when you are hunting the edge.

Muzzleloaders - Part 3

Shooting accessories for Muzzleloading:

Ok, I hope this post is an interesting one to some of you. So you are going to need some basic components to be able shoot your front stuffer. Most of them are basically the same for either style with slight changes.

For a Modern IN-Line:

• Powder
• sabot/bullet
• primer
• bullet starter
  

For a Old Style Hawken:

• Powder
• patch
• ball/mini ball
• ball starter
• primer cap
  

For a Flintlock:

• powder
• cloth patch
• ball
• ball starter
  
• powder for the pan (primer)

Let's take a look at powder. There is basically two kinds of powder LOOSE or PELLETIZED. There is also different stages of powder FFG & FFFG.

• FFG is for Rifles
  
• FFFG is for Pistols & Revolvers
• FFFG can also be used in the pan on a flintlock

Here is an example of loose powder which usually comes in a 1lb. container.

This powder was developed for today's modern muzzleloader, and it delivers superior velocity and accuracy. It is virtually odorless during firing and cleaning, and it delivers superior velocity and accuracy. Simply clean your gun with plain water, wipe dry and oil.
Size: 1 lb.
Available: FFG, FFFG.

Here is an example of black powder in pellet form. Now I'm featuring Triple Seven powder because that is what I am using at the moment. It is a lot cleaner burning than say the traditional Pyrodex. Keep in mind that their are other brands out there and you will need to see which one works best in your gun.

Triple Se7en®'s clean-burning, sulfur-free, odorless performance is now available in convenient .50- caliber, 50-grain or 30-grain pellets. It's designed for use only with in-lines using 209 primers.
Per 100.
Available: 50-grain. & 30-grain

Primers are a very important piece to the hole deal. With out these there is no way to safely light the charge.

Extra-hot fire for faster, more complete burn on powder and Pyrodex® pellets. #11 Magnum that produces a 24 percent hotter flame - perfect for replica black powders also. Non-corrosive and non- mercuric. Per 1,000.

This type is you a lot for caplock muzzleloaders where the nipple is more exposed to the weather. I used these a lot when I was shooting a Hawken.






The musket primer was developed to give a hot spark than the percussion primer and could actually be used in place of the #11.







This is what I used now which work very well in the new modern in-line muzzleloaders.

These non-corrosive, all weather primers deliver fast, dependable ignition under any shooting condition. Primers are constantly and rigorously tested for consistency and sensitivity at temperatures and conditions far beyond the range of normal usage. Winchester guarantees better sensitivity for more positive firing in all guns, carefully-controlled weights of primer mixtures, consistency in size and quality, precise measurements and tolerances for anvil heights and stability in extremes of temperatures and humidity.

Projectiles, these comes in so many forms that it is obvious I can't show them all to ya but I will try to give you an idea. Right now I am shooting a sabot/bullet combination out of my CVA Wolf.

Hornady 50 cal. sabot with a .44 cal. 240 grain HP/XTP

Ballistics data uses 150 gr. charges unless otherwise noted.

What this style does is that the sabot takes up the space between the bore and the bullet making for a nice snug fit. The sabot will also follow the rifling in the barrel.

Details:

Item Number	6720
Weight	1.00 lbs
Ballistic Coefficient	0.205
Sectional Density	0.185

There is also what they called a Belted bullet that is full diameter of the bore. Power belt has designed two different types that work very well from what I have heard.

PowerBelt Hollow Point Bullets

These hollow point bullets offer shooters the benefits of saboted and conical bullets in one projectile. They have an innovative snap-on base that creates a perfect gas seal to ensure consistent gas pressures for vitually identical shot-to-shot bullet velocity. They also are extremely easy to load and eliminate the need to clean your bore after every shot. They come in rapid-expanding hollow point and flat point. Per 20.





PowerBelt AeroTip Bullets

AeroTip™ bullets offer shooters the benefits of saboted and conical bullets in one projectile. These flat-shooting, polymer tip bullets have good downrange performance. Per 15.







Thompson center Maxi-Hunter

Thompson Center's new CAD designed Maxi-Hunter® bullet incorporates all the features of the world famous Maxi-Ball®, superb accuracy and easy loading, with the added benefit of maximum expansion on deer-sized game. The greatly improved terminal ballistics for deer-sized game have made the Maxi-Hunter® the primary choice of those who specifically concentrate on hunting the special deer seasons. Thompson Center's newly designed Maxi-Hunters® are pre-lubed with Natural Lube 1000+ Bore Butter™, eliminating the need to wipe the bore clean between shots. Per 20.
Available:

255-grain/.45 caliber

350-grain/.50 caliber

435-grain/.54 caliber

560-grain/.58 caliber(Per 15)

The patch and ball, Some shooters will use a dry patch that the have to moisten or you can get pre-moisten patches which is the way I used to do it.

Pre-lubricated Shooting Patches

These can be found on the CVA website and are made of 100% cotton selected for uniformity
and strength. .015 thickness. Qty 100.


.490 dia. Lead Ball with a .015 patch will have a nice lubed fit for that ball.







Bullet starters, they make it so much easier because they do what they are called. They get the bullet starter enough where you can finish pushing it down with your ramrod.


This particular style comes with a lot of different tips to accomodate all the different styles of bullets out there.

You can start a bullet with the ramrod but it is just so awkward to do it.



This ball starter I handmade from an antler and the small tip is what I would you to initially seat the bullet then just flip the starter over to use the 6" end to finish starting it.

These are for sale for $7.50 + shipping

Designs may very depending on size and availability of the extra tip for seating.

(just send me an email)

Savory Sunday's - #49

I was going through the freezer and found that I still had 3 trout left from this past summer so I went in search of a oven recipe because (it's to darn cold to cook outside). Some of you might be reading this while I am cooking them.

Oven Crisp Trout:

6 trout, pan dressed
Salt & pepper
1/4 c. (or less) soft butter
1/2 c. finely chopped parsley (fresh)
1 egg
1/4 c. milk
1/2-1 tsp. salt (opt.)
3/4 c. fine dry bread crumbs
1/2 c. shredded Swiss cheese
2 tbsp. butter

Wash trout, pat dry. Sprinkle inside with salt and pepper. Combine butter and parsley and spread inside cavity of fish. Beat egg, milk and salt. Also mix bread crumbs and cheese (separately). Dip fish in egg mixture and roll in crumb cheese mixture (coat each side well). Arrange in shallow buttered pan. Dot fish with extra butter (for a splurge), no more than 2 tablespoons. Bake in very hot oven, 500 degrees for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender and light brown.

Give-away Prize becomes a great Product Review

When I entered the "Fall 2009 Reader Appreciation Giveaway" at "Ben G. Outdoors" I never expected to win the Grand Prize but I did and before I go any farther I just want to say thank you to Ben and to say sorry for taking so long to do this post.

The grand prize was these, a pair of Muck Boots Arctic Sport Mid in your size from Hank’s Clothing.

The Arctic Sport™ is warm enough for the coldest outdoor days, durable enough for the most rugged conditions.

• Breathable Airmesh™ lining
• Stretch-fit topline binding snugs calf to keep warmth in and cold out
• Molded, durable, rubber outsole provides maximum protection and stability
• Added toe protection with a wrap-up bumper
• 2mm thermal foam underlay added to the instep area for additional warmth
• EVA molded midsole with contoured footbed
• Reinforced toe
• Double reinforcements on the instep, heel and achilles area
• CR flex-foam bootie (5mm) with four-way stretch nylon, snag-resistant cover is 100% waterproof, lightweight, flexible, bouyant, and will form to virtually any calf girth
• Comfort range of 60° F to -40° F

Approximately 4 pounds per pair.

I broke them in during a snow storm we had and I have to say these boots were awesome.

My feet did not sweat, they did not get wet and they were warm. They are actually the best pair of outdoor boots I know own.

I will recommend them to anyone.

BioLogic introduces a All-New Perennial called "Perfect Plot"

Here some news for all you guys who have food plots and want to try a new mix from BioLogic.

NEWS RELEASE All-New Perennial from BioLogic: Perfect Plot January 2010
Press release and logos are available by clicking on the logos pictured below or by going to www.howardcommunications.com
WEST POINT, MS - Todd Amenrud, Director of Public Relations for BioLogic said, "We at BioLogic set out over a year ago to provide food plotters with a new perennial blend, one that has the ability to attract deer from miles around as well as provide the ultimate in nutrition throughout the entire year. Enter Perfect Plot." Making up the bulk of the blend are New Zealand clovers, alfalfa, and chicory - without a doubt the three most attractive and nutritious perennials available for attracting and growing bigger, healthier deer. The seven different varieties of clover were chosen for their unique ability to provide high palatability and digestible protein with maximum leaf growth and the ability to perform in a wide variety of conditions. The variety of alfalfa used in Perfect Plot is very high in forage yield and has proven to have excellent winter survival and persistence for those planting in the northern climates as well as superior disease resistance, diseases which are known to plague those who have tried to establish alfalfa in the Southeast. Rounding out the perennials in this blend is chicory. The variety of chicory used in this blend is highly nutritious and incredibly drought resistant. Perfect Plot also includes some highly attractive annuals for early and late season draw. Austrian Winter Peas are included in the blend for this very reason. To complete this exciting new planting are a couple varieties of field proven New Zealand brassicas. These were included in the blend to give your plot the late season appeal when the really cold weather sets in and the snow begins to fall. Perfect Plot should provide years of high quality food for your herd with little care and maintenance. The clovers, alfalfa and chicory in this blend were chosen for their track record of being very hardy varieties with great longevity. For more information, log on to www.mossyoakbiologic.com or call 662-495-9292. Headquartered in West Point, Miss., since its inception in 1998, BioLogic (www.mossyoakbiologic.com) develops scientifically proven products for wildlife and wildlife managers. With a broad line that includes management products for everything from deer and turkey to fish and waterfowl, BioLogic helps land managers achieve their wildlife management goals. BioLogic's Scientifically Proven Wild Game Products™ are backed by scientific research from the top wildlife professionals in the world. ###	For More Information: Todd Amenrud Ph: 763-413-0797 todd@plantbiologic.com
IT'S NOT A PASSION. IT'S AN OBSESSION.