Pic of the Day!

I saw this and immediately liked the picture. I was visiting one of many blogs I try to keep track of. and it's called "My Country Blog of this and that".

This has got to be one of those pictures that just screams at you to leave a saying like "maybe if I don't move they won't see me"

Logging could change Hunting location

I had to go to a neighboring town this morning to see about a new battery for my wife's car and the ride was going right by a new spot where I will be shotgun hunting this fall for whitetails. As I was going by I was shocked to see that they had started logging in there.

I know it's state land but what has me frazzled is that I originally made  a mistake on my application this year and had gotten this area instead of the usual spot which wasn't a big deal. I took some after season scouting and had picked what I thought would be a productive area then this happened.

I've hunted clear cuts and logging areas before with some success depending on when they finished and when I got in there but, to be safe I think I am going to need a secondary location just in case. I am glad I noticed now instead of later though.

Old book is a nice addition to my Den

I have been tinkering on Ebay a little bit lately looking for whatever catches my old fashioned eye. I came across this book and knowing my history with Connecticut Valley Arms this past year I just had to get it.

Granted it is no news to me what is inside it but that is not what appealed to me it was the fact that the copyright was dated 1980 which makes it 30 years old for one thing and the contents were from that long ago. Considering a lot has changed in the last 30 years. I thought it would make a nice addition to my den.

Venison Style Shepard's Pie

I know I usually post recipes on Sundays but after ai saw this one I didn't want to wait. I love venison and I love shepard's pie so how can you go wrong.

Sent in by Dave Logsdon.

~ 1 lb ground venison ~ 6 – 7 slices of bacon, cut into 1/2" pieces ~ 1 tsp cumin ~ 2 tsp paprika ~ 1/4 tsp ground thyme ~ salt and pepper ~ 1 medium onion, chopped ~ 1 package frozen mixed vegetables, thawed ~ 1 red bell pepper, chopped, optional ~ 3 tbsp flour ~ 2 1/2 cups chicken broth ~ 1 cup sour cream, divided ~ 3 large potatoes, peeled and cubed ~ 1 egg, beaten ~ 3 tbsp butter

In large skillet, cook the bacon until just brown. Do not drain. Add the venison and break apart. Add the cumin, paprika, thyme and salt and pepper to taste. Stir together and cook over medium heat until the venison is cooked through. Stir in the onion, mixed veggies and bell pepper. Cook until veggies are almost tender, about 10 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes. Stir in the broth and ½ cup sour cream. Simmer over low heat until gravy thickens. Preheat broiler. While the above is cooking, boil the potatoes in lightly salted water until tender. Drain and reserve 1 cup of the water. In a bowl, beat the egg. Slowly mix the egg and the warm potato water together. Place the potatoes in a mixing bowl and add the egg/water mixture, butter and remaining sour cream. Mash/mix thoroughly. Add a small amount of milk if they are too thick. Pour the meat/veggie mixture into a glass baking dish. Evenly spread the potatoes on top. Place in broiler and cook until the potatoes are golden brown at the edges and peaks. Remove and let set for a couple of minutes. Serve and enjoy.

Why is one brand Dirtier than the Other?

This past trip to the range I was noting a change in the way the primers looked after the shot. For whatever difference there is if any here is what I am looking at.

As you can tell the 2 on the left are far more dirtier than the 2 on the right but, does that really make a difference.

Muzzleloading Platinum Tip

Supreme® Platinum Tip™ Bullets & Sabots Introducing a new Supreme product from Winchester ideal for Deer hunting - Platinum Tip Hollow Point. Newly available in 45 caliber and 54 caliber, with existing 50 caliber Muzzleloading sabot bullet - the Platinum Tip Hollow Point is a new benchmark in bullet design and performance. Available in a 30 pack. (30 bullets and 30 sabots)

WELCOME TO THE FIOCCHI USA
Fiocchi USA supports the traditional trade and we believe that we provide a real alternative for our distributors and dealers who must compete against a mounting tide of discount stores and mass merchandisers. We intend to continue to grow these relationships with a firm foundation of trust , knowledge and an “ old fashioned “ ( but not out of style ) personal touch.

Fiocchi designs and develops its own equipment and has gained therefore a remarkable know how in cutting edge production technology meeting the most demanding standards of quality and quantity. Fiocchi of America Inc., established in Missouri in 1983 is benefiting from the know how of the Italian mother company.

I don't know if I can't find anything or I'm just plain looking in the wrong place. I wanted to find out why one would be more dirtier than the other after snapping.

Sunday's Range Review

I know this isn't quite Sunday but, It is the first chance I had to write this up so what's a couple days after the fact anyway.

I went to the range with the CVA Accura V2 again with one goal in mind and that was to see how it did at 100 yards. See two weeks before I had gone to the range with it but concentrated at a 50 yard distance using Powerbelt 245 AT's with IMR White Hots & Triple Seven primers plus I was also shooting Barnes T EZ Expander AT's with BH209 & Fiocchi 616 primers.

see previous review:

As you can see from that post I was very pleased with the results and going back this past Sunday to shoot 100 yards was fun as well.

I started right off the bat at 100 yards with 100 grains of loose BH209, Fiocchi 616 primers and a 250 grain Barnes T EZ Expander AT. The results were pretty close to what I expected. My first 6 rounds were just a tad high and center so with a minor adjustment in elevation I was hitting right where I want to be.

8" target @ 100 yards using Barnes 250 grain T EZ Expander with 100 grains of BH209 & Fiocchi 616 primers

Then I tried the Powerbelt 245 grain AT with IMR White Hot  pellets and Triple Seven primers and did not get what I expected. My first three shots were at the bottom of the target.  I expected to be a little low but not off the paper. I did not want to change the scope because I was shooting so well with the Barnes & BH209 and it was time for a break so what I did was moved the target back to 50 yards to see if anything had changed.
As you can see from the target nothing had changed, I should have at least been on paper but I finished at 50 yards with this setup to get a very nice pattern and a decision to check this again at another time.

8" target @ 50 yards using Powerbelt 245 grain AT with 100 grains of IMR White Hot & Triple Seven primers

I am very much liking the accuracy of the CVA Accura V2 and unless something changes my mind I will be hunting with it this fall. When it comes to powder and bullet setups I am preferring the Barnes T EZ & BH209 combo. There still is plenty of time before deer season opens so you never know.

Guest Post from Afghanistan

I would like to share a guest post from a good friend Albert Rasch  from the Rasch Outdoor Chronicles who is in a place right now where most people would not want to be. I feel what he is trying to do with this is a very good idea and urge all to take part, I know I am going to. Sometimes it is the smallest things that happen to you to make a day worth remembering. Well Done Albert!

Ok, I know what your thinking...


"What the devil are you up to Albert? Yo-Yos???"


As it turns out, that's exactly what I am thinking. Yo-Yo's.

I happened upon a broken Duncan Butterfly yo-yo. The side was off, and the axle was loose. As it so happens, I travel prepared. I brought some gel crazy glue with me, along with assorted a sundry other items that make your life tolerable in Afghanistan. (See my post: What You Need to Bring Overseas as a Contractor.)  A few minutes later I had a perfectly serviceable yo-yo again.


I remember that sometime around 1970-71 there was a Yo-Yo craze; at least there was in my neighborhood!  We all had to have Yo-Yos and many of us learned tricks like "walk the dog," "around the world," and "rock the cradle."


So, I was outside the tent in our compound, Yo-Yoing away the afternoon. Boy what fun it is to have something to do while the interminable hours drift by.


A couple of the other fellows whose brains had yet to be baked in their skulls stopped by, so I offered the Yo-Yo to each in turn so they could have some fun with it. We must have spent a couple of hours out there, getting the hang of it, laughing, telling tall tales, and forgetting we were hot, dirty, and far from home.


As a parent, you know the tell tale signs of boredom, frustration, anger, and fear in your children. I see it in our young military folks all too often. I can't tell you how many of these kids I have seen dangerously close to the breaking point. All they need is something to distract them from their daily drudgery.


Therein lies my idea.


I would like for you to forward a Yo-Yo or two to me, so that I may distribute them to the young men and women that are out here sucking up dust and dodging bullets. If you have never sent anything to a deployed service member before, let me tell you that it is a one of their greatest pleasures to receive a gift from the states from someone they don't know. It just makes their day!


I hope many of you will be inclined to take a moment out of your day and box one up. I'll let you know who received it and take a picture or two and post it on TROC. Make sure you put a slip of paper inside with your name and email so I can let you know it has arrived, and so the service member can thank you too! It's a little thing, a Yo-Yo is, but it can mean the world sometimes.


My address is:

Albert A Rasch

AEW 455th ECES/FP

APO AE 09355


One more thing if you don't mind. I want to ask all of my fellow bloggers to please link to this post, or even better, email me and I will send you the html of this post for a guest post on your blog! I sure would appreciate it!

I want to thank you in advance for giving this some thought. And for those of you that will forward a YoYo, I can't thank you enough for the kindness you are exhibiting. Believe you me, you will make a service member's day!


Regards,

Albert A Rasch

Member: Kandahar Tent Club


The Hunt Continues...

Tyler turned 8 Yesterday

I haven't looked yet but that rain we got yesterday I sure hope it's dry enough to cut grass. I have to do the yard and all the trimming today because my son Tyler turned 8 just yesterday and we are having his party on Sunday.

I have a bit of yard work to do while Heidi has the same but in the house. Tyler is excited to say the least but who wasn't at that age.

We did let him have 1 present yesterday which was a game for his DS player, he still is playing it the last time I checked.

I hope he has a great day, he deserves it a lot.

T.G.I.F. Day

Thank God It's Friday!

This has been one heck of a week between the heat and working two 13 hour days when I normally only work 7.5, now it's Friday and I can look forward to two days off.

Even though I have a few things to do around the house tomarrow and shooting at the range Sunday morning and a birthday party Sunday afternoon for Tyler (you'll see more in tomarrows post) it will still be a bit of rest and relaxation.

What are you going to do this coming HOT weekend?

What I have learned after 20 Years of Deer Hunting

In the past 20 years hunting the whitetail deer I have come across numerous types of hunters. Some I would be happy to say I relate to and some I would not want to meet again. I am not trying to put anyone down but to show that everyone has there own reasons for deer hunting,

photo from Buck Manager:
For me deer hunting is not just about the fur, the antlers, the kill, the meat, the time spent in the autumn woods or the bone chilling early winter temperatures but all of it.
It really is odd because 20 years ago I had never seen a deer until I had gotten married and we moved out on our own to a town that seemed to be over run with deer. I had thought about it a lot and one day I decided I wanted to try it.

For me I feel I was one of the fortunate one's because I not only learned the technique's of deer hunting but I learned about deer in general. I have come to let's say admire the whitetail deer. The way it can adapt to any area it finds itself in. How it learns to survive with what mother nature throws at it. They have become so resilient that you can not admire them for what they are and what they can achieve.

Years ago deer hunting was a way to not only spend time with family and friends as it is today but it was also a way to feed and take care of the families.

I feel and this is only my opinion that times have changed a bit and there are more and more so called hunters showing up that are just in it for the loud crack of a rifle or maybe the thrill of killing something not to mention all the bragging rights to getting a deer with a beautiful rack on it.

Let me explain one reason why I feel this way. One day I was out hunting and came across a huge bodied deer laying dead and only to find that the head was missing and that the back strap were removed with the remainder of the deer left there to rot. That experience has just been frozen in my mind and I doubt it will ever go away.

I hear guys say all the time how they got 7, 8 even 9 deer every season. I can only hope that they are either eating all that meat or sharing it maybe even donating it. I have also heard plenty that they do not shoot nothing but bucks because of there impressive racks. I have a problem with that. Don't get me wrong I love and admire a good buck rack just as much as the next  guy but, you can't eat bone. SO, to shoot something just because of say that to me is wrong. I have shot bucks with antlers and that is always pretty cool but, I also think about how I can do my part to be a better deer manager and keep the local herd ration balanced.

When I am out hunting the way I look at it is the freezer comes first because that means my family will have added meat for the next year. I sure would not mind if a big buck shows up first while I am out but if a nice adult doe have to come along first well to me that is a nobrainer such as this doe to the right which I harvested in the middle of a morning snow storm last December which dumped a foot of snow.

I understand everyone has there own reasons for deer hunting and they have that right but if it's just to hear the crack of a rifle or to feel the thrill of killing something then you are not really a hunter. To me a hunter is one that harvests to feed family and those in need, a hunter is one that respects the animal and it's environment, a hunter is who is out to succeed but would also drop what he is doing to go to the aid of another hunter for whatever reason it might be.

Respect and protect what nature has left for us for if we don't it might not be there for our kids and their kids.

Meet the North American Fisher

The North American Fisher

The other night coming home from work I had spotted two of thes crossing the road and they were close enough that I had to slow down in order not to run them over. They are a beautiful animal that is not always visible to us but they can also be very very mean so it is one to keep your distance from.

Description

Fishers are a medium-size mammal. Their bodies are long, thin, and low to the ground. In appearance the sexes are hard to distinguish but they are sexually dimorphic in size with the male being larger than the female. Males are between 90 to 120 centimetres (35–47 in) in length and weigh between 3.5 to 5 kilograms (8–11 lb). Females measure 75 to 95 centimetres (30–37 in) and weigh between 2 to 2.5 kilograms (4–6 lb). The largest ever male fisher recorded weighed 9 kilograms (20 lb).


The fisher's fur changes with the season and differs slightly between sexes. Males have coarser coats than females. In the early winter the coats are dense and glossy ranging from 30 millimetres (1 in) on the chest to 70 millimetres (3 in) on the back. The color ranges from deep brown to black although it appears to be much blacker in the winter when contrasted with white snow. From the face to the shoulders fur can be hoary gold or silver due to tricolored guard hairs. The underside of a fisher is almost completely brown except for randomly placed patches of white or cream colored fur. In the summer, the fur color is more variable and may lighten considerably. Fishers undergo molting starting in late summer and finishing by November or December.
Fishers have five toes on each foot with unsheathed, retractable claws. Their feet are disproportionately larger than their legs which makes it easier for them to move on top of snow packs. In addition to the toes, there are four central pads on each foot. On the hind paws there are coarse hairs that grow between the pads and the toes which gives them added traction when walking on a variety of surfaces. Fishers have extremely mobile ankle joints which can rotate their hind paws almost 180 degrees allowing them to agilely move through tree branches and climb down trees head first.


A circular patch of hair on the central pad of their hind paws marks plantar glands that give off a distinctive odor. Since these patches become enlarged during breeding season there is speculation that they are used for communication for reproduction.

Sign up for CVA Shooter Newsletter

Connecticut Valley Arms

I wanted to pass this along to any muzzleloader shooters out there. It is free to sign up and to the first 1,000 a chance to win a CVA Accure V2.

All:

 

Fill out and submit the attached invitation and you’ll start receiving our new email newsletter!  Feel free to forward this on to anyone you think would like to sign up.  A free ACCURA V2 will be drawn from the first 1000 subscribers!

 

http://cva.us1.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=ae88e75cd7585503b9a7b3ed7&id=4692485310

  

Defrosting that Old Style Freezer before Deer Season arrives

Over the past weekend I had gone to take a couple packages of deer steaks out of the basement freezer to cook on the grill. I realized that I needed to defrost it by the end of summer before the possibility of needing the room for more venison. It is pretty basic to do but I found these direction that might be of help for someone.

1. Step 1
   
    
   Turn off
   Start by the night before turning the freezer off. It won't hurt anything but it will make it easier to defrost.
   
   ** I put freshly pressed tomato juice in ours the night I turned it off and it was frozen the next morning. Trust me it won't hurt!
   
2. Step 2
   The next morning as you go to your freezer, start by gathering the things you will need to do this chilly task.
   
3. Step 3
   
    
   Use knife
   I started the night before by taking a big screwdriver we had in the garage where our upright freezer is. I couldn't close the door as there was so much ice build up. So the next day I grabbed the big knife to start chiseling away at the ice. I really don't like this idea cause if you hit the wrong thing you could damage something. But the ice was thick so that's where I started.
   
4. Step 4
   
    
   Scrape ice away
   I didn't want my hands to get cold even though it was a really warm day so I took out a tool to help scrape the ice off the racks. If you have gloves on you can use your hands. Use what is convenient for you.
   
5. Step 5
   
    
   Heat gun
   I had the ah ha moment. It took a little while to accomplish but much easier and safer. After all freezers are not cheap and I need mine for all the garden vegetables we have it and need to put in it.
   
6. Step 6
   
    
   Ice
   After the big chucks of ice start coming loose throw them in a bucket. You'll be amazed what you will have.
   
7. Step 7
   
    
   Heat gun
   Use you heat gun again to remove the ice build up in that freezer. After all you aren't going to save money if your freezer is not working properly. It will cost you extra electricity to run. Keep going I know you can do it
   
8. Step 8
   
    
   Ice
   Keep throwing those ice chucks in the bucket.
   
9. Step 9
   
    
   Turn ON
   Don't forget to turn your freezer back on! This could be a big mistake :~(
   
10. Step 10
    
     
    There you have it, a clean freezer efficient running, money saving freezer. Fill it with all those garden vegetables.
    
    Although this is not my freezer I would almost swear it was, the basic style anyway. I will be planning to do this this coming weekend.
    
    Defrosting not only help freeze what is in there but it will run more efficiently after you have done the process.
    

Putting one Foot in front of the Other

Well it is happening again, the computer bugs are invading not only my laptop but my desktop as well. This is not been a good year for me and computers.

So I just wanted to let you all know that for a bit my posts might be a little spuratic. I will be doing what I can when I can for now while i look into what it would cost to get me a new computer. It is time to upgrade there is no doubt about that, I was just hoping it would happen when I had a little better finances.

So what else is new? I already reserved a spot at the gun range for this coming Sunday, I plan to concentrate my shooting at 100 yards this time with the same powders, bullets and primers I used at 50 yards the last time.

I have 2 nights this week where I will have a 13+ hour shift, not looking forward to that but you got to do what you got to do. Of course I still have my odds and ends to do around the house and my neighbors house but most importantly I have to get out to Massachusetts this week sometime get more done on that patio job (thank god the owners are not in a hurry). Better being busy than having nothing to do I guess.

I'm putting one foot in front of the other and keep on trucking this week. I hope you all have a good week.

End of the Weekend

Well yesterday went pretty good seeing as it was my birthday (not that I am counting) and I spent most of it at the Northeast Big Buck Club annual banquet. I had a great time and I usually do,those guys put on one heck of a great time.

Today I plan to take it easy and not do much, actually do nothing except spend time with my Heidi and Tyler.  I do plan to clean my new toy to the gun cabinet so I can have it ready for next Sunday. I do need to tinker aon a couple things also so maybe I am gonna do something actually, just not much.

Sorry for rambling, Between yesterday festivities and the headache I am getting from these darn computers I keep forgetting what direction I was going. I really do need to get a NEW computer rather than keep playing with the desktop and the laptop but I think I am going to have to hold on until after x-mas.

Anyway I hope everyone is having a nice weekend. I will try to put something better to read on here later.

Orange Peel adhesive bullseye targets 8" Bullseye

I have been using these since my contact Brandon Butler with Caldwell Shooting Supplies and I have to say for someone like me  who has trouble with his eye sight and is a firearms shooter than these targets are the way to go. I can see where I hit a lot easier than I ever could, it saves time, it saves dialing in mistakes and comes in different sizes.

Get On Target with Orange Peel Targets by Caldwell! Orange Peels let you see hits ON and OFF the bullseye with dual-color flake-off technology that makes your hits look like colorful explosions. If your shot happens to miss the bullseye, you will know exactly where your bullet strayed...instantly. To make things even easier, the vibrant, contrasting colors make the target stick out like a sore thumb with any background, even at long distances. Caldwell makes these great targets in almost every size and shape imaginable at a price that anyone can afford. Orange Peels are clearly the best way to get on-target.

Sight in that rifle or shotgun. Go ahead and get on-target.

• Self-stick adhesive back sticks to virtually any surface.
• Huge array of target options to fit all of your shooting season needs
• Hits in the bulls-eye: explode in neon green
• Hits outside the bulls-eye: explode in neon orange
• Instant target feedback-you can see from the bench

Be sure to look for our Orange Peel commercial on the Outdoor Channel, advertised during G&A TV, American Rifleman and The Jim Shockey Show.

  » Read the press release: Caldwell® Announces Orange Peel™ Targets 

Just as soon as I can I will be getting more of these as they are so helpful it makes things more enjoyable, I would highly recommend you trying these.

The NBBC Annaul Banquet is just a couple days away

Saturday I will be going to the Annual Banquet for the "Northeast Big Buck Club", it's an event that is a minimum of 8 hours long and is a great time had by all. Since I had became a member I have been to all but one banquet and that was only because I was sick as a proverbial dog.

If you want to physically see some of the most awesome mounted Whitetails in the Northeast and other states
than this is the place to be. The dinner is always great, bar is always open, raffles are constantly going on the whole time and the camaraderie is imaginable.

I share some pictures of past banquets but I won't. What I will do is share pictures from this years after the festivities.
I am looking to this one maybe just a little more because it fall on my birthday (not that I am still counting) so I will be taking part in something that is near and dear to my heart.

-------------------------------

NBBC 2010 Awards Ceremony

2010 Auction Hunts & Trips

All entries must be scored by May 1st 2010 to be eligible for this year’s banquet.

At the banquet, awards will be given to the largest typical and non-typical bucks harvested in the previous year with a bow, gun and muzzleloader, from MA, CT, VT, RI, ME, NH, NY and PA.

These are the best of the best! With over 100 of the northeast's best heads on display, many scoring over 170".

When: Saturday, July 17, 2010
Time: 1:00 pm TO 8:00 pm

• Mulit-course sit-down dinner
• State-of-the-art computer generated and
  full narrated awards ceremony
• Many incredible hunts auctioned and raffled
• Wildlife art auctions
• Door prizes
• Awards for ladies, teens and seniors

$35.00 per person. No tickets sold at the door.

Please note that any deer that is entered into the NBBC record book from May 1, 2009, until May 1, 2010 are eligible to receive a beautiful 7 x 9 inch laser-engraved plaque recognizing your trophy. These are not the laser-engraved plaques that we give to award winners, but one that will still give all the details of your buck and will be an eye-catching memento to hang on the wall next to your trophy. These solid-wood plaques, a $35 value, will be handed out, FREE OF CHARGE, at the Awards Ceremony*. Please contact Paul Chapdelaine at deerrunacres@comcast.net for more information.

I'm Really starting to Dislike the Heat & Humidity

90 degree + HEAT & Humidity

=

I

 I can only hope the cooler temps of Deer season come soon.

Reflections and Deer Tracks on a Warm Monday Morning

I told Tyler over the weekend we would go do some fishing so Monday morning we grabbed our gear and a juice for each of us and headed out.

We only went for a couple hours but made the most of it. I had to set up the Thermocell so we would not get carried away by the skeeters. while I was sitting there looking at the pool I realized the water was real still and I took this neat picture with a reflection of a tree that was down a ways.

I only had one decent bite while we were there which ended up falling off the hook, oh well. We packed up and went to another spot which the bites were better (just shiners) but still no trout.  I did manage to spot a couple decent hoof prints from a deer that must have walked the stream bank early that morning.

Definition for Accura is Accuracy

Well I went to the range this morning like I planned and shot what I planned to shoot but, I have to say I was surprised and very very impressed with the way the CVA Accura V2 had performed. First things first I topped it with  a brand new Bushnell DOA 250 3-9x40 scope which I absolutely love (thank you Carlos) and plan to experiment more with.

The Accura is one of those muzzleloaders that for some reason just slides right into that nook when you shoulder it and has that feel of dependability to it. The way it feels with the non-slip grip and forearm gives you that added confidence I think.

The hardest thing I actually had to deal with was getting it on paper with the new scope but, once I did it dialed in with all the ease of a seasoned muzzleloader.

First up was the Barnes T-EZ 250 grain Aerotips, BH209 loose powder, Fiocchi 616 primers, 50 yards

Next up was Powerbelt 245 grain Aerotips, IMR White Hots 100 grains, Triple Seven primers, 50 yards

First impressions mean a lot with me and I will already say without any more testing (I'm only kidding) that this is the muzzleloader that I will be hunting with this coming deer season here in Connecticut and Vermont. With the QRBP system and the Bergara Barrel you just can not go wrong. You top that with a good powder and bullet combination and you'll be making bullseye's and/or filling the freezer.

Now to touch base on the bullets and powder first is the Barnes T-EZ 250 grain Aerotip. That particular bullet hold up to it's name EZ meaning it was one of the easiest bullets I have ever loaded without cleaning between shots. I can not wait to shoot more. The BH209 powder in my opinion thus far is I have to get more, bottom line. It is clean burning and works well with the Barnes bullets and Fiocchi primers. Thanks again for your suggestions Carlos.

Next is the Powerbelt 245 grain Aerotips. This particular bullets is a full bore type and the new type of base I like and the have found that I prefer the lower grain such as the 245 works better with my setups than the 295 Aerotips so I will be doing more shooting with those. I do think the IMR White Hots are a very good powder and do burn cleaner than most. I will be using that brand more, I only wish it came in loose powder and not just pellet form.

Next trip to the range is the same setups but at a distance of  100 yards.

Quality & Accuracy expected to be a Good Combination

My next review coming up is the CVA AccuraV2 and I topped it with a Bushnell DOA-250 3-9x40 scope.

The Accura comes with the new QRBP system which is short for "Quick Release Breech Plug" which is one of the nicest improvements that CVA has come up with. No more wrench and pipe to get the breech plug out. You can use just two fingers to unscrew it.

The other awesome part of this is it comes with the accuracy of a true Bergera Barrel which are made in Spain.
These Bergara Barrels, all made of the highest quality 416 grade stainless steel, have quickly become recognized as the most accurate production muzzleloader barrels in the world. And at an optimal 27” in length, they provide just the right combination of balance, maneuverability and efficient powder-burning capability.

Complete review coming soon:

Properly Mounting a Rifle Scope

Since I starting testing I have been doing a lot with rifle scopes and that means installing them. Scopes are only as good as the way they are mounted whether they are the most expensive or the least expensive. I had done a couple before I started testing and made a few rookie mistakes which cost me a scope do to broken crosshairs.

Today I will be setting up the new Accura V2 for use at the range tomarrow and I will be mounting a scope on it.As in the past I was going to show you via pictures but thought maybe a video would explain better than my babbling so I started looking on youtube.

Wheeler Emgineering which is owned by Battenfeld Technologies has a very good video on scope mounting that I felt was easy to understand.



If you are spending good money on a rifle and god money on a scope than you might as well learn how to mount it the correct way. Now another item that goes with this process is called the "level level level" which also comes from Wheeler Engineering. I personally have used this before and it very much was quite easy to use.

The simplest, most accurate scope leveling system ever devised to level your scope as you mount it on your rifle. The magnetic base in the rifle level bridges the bolt raceway, allowing you to position your rifle almost perfectly level. Then level the scope, tighten the rings and the job is done. Works with practically any bolt-action rifle. Set includes two levels.

WW Forum decides to close

Awhile ago I tried something new and started a forum. I didn't know how it was going to work doing a forum and a blog and sad to say it didn't work.

To the small few who did visit it I thank you but I was having more contact with my blog than the forum so I decided to close it. I felt it was really a waste of time and I also felt that I wanted to get back to what I really enjoy 100% and that was my blog and muzzleloading.

I did send out a mass PM to all who had signed up but I am already hearing that it might not have been sent correctly so that is the reason for this post.

There is one forum I visit and is doing quite well and that is "Frontier Muzzleloading". A link to that site is in my side bar as well as this post. A great bunch of members that are as passionate as I am about what we do.

Not to worry though Whitetail Woods blog is not going anywhere. If anything I will be doing my best to post more stuff for my reader/friends to read and view.

Summertime in the Deer Woods

Here are a couple of trail cam pictures that a friend Eric Jones sent me and was nice enough to let me share with you.

I sure do miss having my trail camera. When I first got mine years ago they were really expensive because they were still new to the market. But, now you can get one for that is not to bad for $150 - $200 bucks (no pun intended). I did have one on my list of items to buy but other items became a higher priority so I am gonna probably have to wait for Santa.

Anyway thanks for the pics Eric, they are very nice and sure get's my adrenalin pumping. Can't wait for deer season to get here.

More Barnes Bullets are on the testing calender for this Black Powder Shooter

I have heard a lot of good things lately about Barnes Bullets and wanted to see for myself. Carlos from Ed's Gun Shop hooked me up with a package of Spit-Fire T-EZ which I will be trying this weekend. I was also very fortunate to speak with Preston B. from Barnes bullets. I explained my plans to test some and he was happy to help me out by adding to what Carlos had given me.



Preston was nice enough to send me the press release for the T_EZ so I can relay what I have found so far. I do want to say that when it comes to deer hunting I take it very seriously and harvesting a deer in the quickest and most humane way possible is on the top of my priority list so I need to find what shoots the best and what is the most accurate from the gun it comes out of to the way it was actually designed and produced.

Doinf this with a open mind is the key.I have found at least for now that Powerbelt .295 Aerotips fly nice, tight and accurate, I will also be testing their 245 grain Aerotips this week as well. So I am looking forward to adding what I find with Barnes Bullets.

Barnes® T-EZ™ Muzzleloader Bullets

Barnes’ new T-EZ is an easier-loading version of its popular Spit-Fire TMZ™ muzzleloader bullet. Featuring a specially designed sabot, Barnes’ Spit-Fire T-EZ muzzleloader bullets are easier to load, even in tight or fouled bores. The new sabot reduces ramrod pressure required to load and seat these .50-caliber, flat-base bullets.

The easier-loading bullets make faster follow-up shots possible—a real advantage for hunters.

T-EZ bullets deliver the same match-grade accuracy all Barnes’ MZ bullets are famous for. The sabot creates a tight seal with the bore, preventing accuracy-destroying gas blow-by. Consistent shot-to-shot velocities produce tighter groups than competing bullets deliver.

These 100% copper bullets feature a polymer tip that enhances expansion and gives the bullet a higher ballistic coefficient (BC) for superior long-range performance. They expand at both high and low velocity, delivering deadly results at close or extended range. On impact, T-EZ bullets create six razor-edge cutting petals that maximize shock and penetration.  They typically retain 100% of their original weight (excluding tip) and pass-through penetration.

The Spit-Fire T-EZ offers maximum accuracy, expansion and penetration. It outperforms other muzzleloading bullets in every way. Now, muzzleloaders with a tight bore can load a little easier and still achieve top performance.

Available in 50 Caliber 250- and 290-grain, 15 and 24 packs.

Barnes recommends using the Barnes no. 05007 Aligner Tool when loading this bullet.

Visit www.barnesbullets.com to get a free catalog and new Performance vs. Deformance® free DVD; call toll free 800.574.9200; or write email@barnesbullets.com.

Upcoming Range time with the CVA Accura V2

I know it is only Monday but I am planning for the range (again) this Sunday. This week I will be cleaning and setting up the new CVA Accura V2 which I recently received and I'm going to top it with a Bushnell Trophy DOA 3-9x40 which I also recently received.

Of course I will be shooting Powerbelt 245 grain & 295 grain but I also want to try others for one reason to see how the accura handles and to give myself other options of bullets to use come deer season, don't forget I will be hunting in my home state of Connecticut and this year I will be adding Vermont as well.



A friend and tester Carlos from Ed's Gun Shop in North Carolina gave me a package of Barnes Spit-Fire T-EZ's to try which I will as well.

Barnes’ NEW Spit-Fire T-EZ muzzleloader bullets load easier, even in tight bores. A new sabot reduces the ramrod pressure required to load and seat these .50-caliber, flat-base bullets. T-EZ bullets deliver the same match-grade accuracy all Barnes’ MZ bullets are famous for. The 100% copper bullets feature a polymer tip that enhances expansion and boosts BC for superior long-range ballistics. They expand at both close and extended range, creating six razor-edge cutting petals that maximize shock and penetration.

Our copper plated PowerBelt® have become the most popular muzzleloading projectiles since the roundball and truly are "the bullets that made sabots obsolete." They are #1 for a reason, and if you don’t believe us, just ask any hunter who has shot them. The thin copper plating greatly reduces bore friction for higher velocities – while still allowing for optimal bullet expansion within the rifling grooves. Available in all four tip designs – Hollow Point, AeroTip, Flat Point and Steel Tip – PowerBelt Coppers offer the widest variety of grain weights in the PowerBelt line-up, with 11 different weights, from 175 grains all the way up to 530 grains. With PowerBelt Copper Series bullets you can find the right combination for whatever game you’re chasing.

Now that I have the gun and the bullets decided on I need to decide on primers and powder to try for the first initial go around. I think I will go with. Bear in mind this is no competition between belted and saboted bullets but it is a test to see how the Accura  performs for one thing and for two it might determine what I hunt with this coming fall.

• Triple Seven primers with IMR White Hot pellets
• Fiocchi 616 primers with Blackhorn 209 loose powder

Put yourself in your Pet's place, What would you Say?

This is something that we all should be aware of and remind others who have forgotten. I know personally for me a pet in my opinion is as much a family member as a brother or sister so this means a lot to me.

Excessive heat affects animals the same as humans

Information supplied by:  http://www.petloveshack.com/carheat.html 


     "Attention shoppers there is a sale in aisle two!"   While pet owners are inside shopping in an air-conditioned environment their pet may be outside fighting for his 
or her life.   It's not just the canine athletes -- the Frisbee leapers, the runners and jumpers -- that are susceptible to heat exhaustion. Every pet is a potential victim of summer's heat.  

One of the most common causes of heat stroke is leaving an animal in a hot car.
    A little heat outside the car can quickly make it very hot inside. On a summer's day of only 85 degrees, for example, even keeping the windows slightly open won't stop the inside temperature from climbing to 102 degrees in 10 minutes, to 120 degrees in 20 minutes. A dog whose body temperature rises to 107-108 degrees will within a very short time pet can quickly suffer brain damage or die from heatstroke or suffocation. The inside temperature of the car is too hot for anyone, especially your dog or cat.
     Dogs and cats suffer from heat stroke more easily because they do not sweat like people do.  They don't have an efficient way to cool themselves down. If they are panting, it may be because they need the oxygen because they've been exercising, or it may mean they are trying to get rid of built-up heat in their bodies.    

According to the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, loud, rapid panting is one of the first signs of heat exhaustion. Other signs include rapid pulse, glazed eyes,elevated body temperature, excessive salivation, excessive whining or agitation, staring or vomiting and white or bluish gums. Only one of these symptoms has to be present to indicate your pet may be in trouble.
   
    What to do if you're pet is exposed to high temperatures from The Humane Society of the United States, Disaster Services:  
Be alert for the signs of heat stress—heavy panting, glazed eyes, a rapid pulse, unsteadiness, a
staggering gait, vomiting, or a deep red or purple tongue.
If your pet becomes overheated, you must lower his body temperature immediately.
Move your pet into the shade and apply cool (not cold) water all over the body 
to gradually lower the body temperature.
Apply ice packs or cold towels to your pet’s head, neck, and chest only. 
Let your pet drink small amounts of cool water or lick ice cubes.
Take your pet to a veterinarian right away—it could save your pet’s life.

If you see an animal in a car exhibiting any signs of heat stress, call your local animal care and control agency or police department immediately! 
     Taking your pet for a ride may seem like fun, but many pets prefer to spend time with you in the comfort and safety of home. Explore activities that you and your pet can share at home and avoid taking risks by leaving your pet in the car. 

Sunday's Range results with the CVA Wolf

Well, I went back to the range yesterday and this time I used a different powder than last time. First let me give some stats for you.

Gun: 2010 CVA Wolf
Scope: Konus Pro 3-9x40
Bullets: Powerbelt 295 Aerotips
Powder: IMR White Hots (100grains)

See, last time the only difference was I was using Blackhorn 209 for powder which I like a lot but this time and this particuler set up needed a bit better accuracy. So on a recommendation I went with the same setup but I changed the powder to IMR"s White Hots.

Here are my results after a couple of hours.

8" target @ 50 yards

8" target @ 100 yards

The 50 yard target I really like. It was hitting right where I wanted it to, a tad high at 50 should about put it dead on at 100. Now looking at the 100 yard target it was hitting right where I figured it would, just a bit to much to the left. I adjusted but it still kept hitting the 9 o'clock spot on the target (there is actually 5 shots there) so I am think maybe it was me.

I did have one problem though and that is I was getting a crud ring in the bottom of the barrel like Triple Seven but even worse. I found I could only shoot 3 rounds at a time and then I would have to swab the barrel. This never happened the last time I shot White Hots. The onlt difference is this time I was usunf a different primer.Last time I used Triple Seven with White Hots with no crud ring problem. This time I used Fiocchi 616 primers with White Hots and I could not get the fourth bullet down unless I cleaned the bore first.

Could that be the problem?

Either way with this setup The recommendation from Dudley McGarity to try White Hots was correct. My accuracy greatly improved in the Wolf. 

I think I might have to try same setup but go back to Triple Seven primers like last time and see if that fixes the crud ring problem