Selecting Your Hunting Rifle
For a deer hunter, there is nothing more important than finding and selecting the right hunting rifle. A hunter is only as good as the rifle he carries and unless you are hunting with a bow or knife, you will never be as successful as you could be without the right gun. No matter what type of deer you are hunting, a good rifle selected using these tips will go a long way toward greater success.
A Good Hunting Rifle
The best hunting rifles are those that are specifically designed for hunting. These rifles are usually more stable and tougher than other guns and will stand up to a lot of punishment throughout the years. A hunting rifle is rated differently in most aspects of is performance as well, making it important to know what you’re looking for.
Options Available
There are hunting rifles available for different kinds of animals, ranging from the smaller game you might find near your home to large animals you might go on a trip for. If you are hunting squirrels or grouse, you will need a different gun than if you are hunting elk or bear.
First, you need to consider the weight of the gun. Your ability to comfortably carry the rifle for hours is vital, because if your arms begin to shake after you’ve sighted a 20 point buck and you miss the shot, your gun is too heavy. Usually, hunting rifles range between 6 and 9 pounds. Test each weight out and make your selection based on what is most comfortable for you.
Another important consideration when selecting the weight of your rifle is its accuracy. Heavier guns are usually heavier for a reason – they are often better. If you can carry a heavier gun, you should consider doing so. It will provide you more accurate, effective shots when you go hunting.
The range of your rifle is equally important. Smaller animals are easier to get closer to and will often require a slightly less substantial range than larger animals. When deer or bear hunting, you will need a gun with a much longer range, because if you get too close, you could easily scare off a dear or risk your life to a bear.
Finally, how long have you been hunting for? Some guns require a great deal more expertise to operate, providing a collection of features that beginners might not be able to use or understand right away. Always cater your purchase to the experience you have with hunting rifles to ensure you get the most out of your rifle.
The length of your rifle between cheek and stock is important as well, directly affecting the aim of the gun. If you line up your aim and you cannot see through the sites, you will likely misfire and not be very successful. Make sure you can easily site the gun.
When you start the process of selecting a hunting rifle, you should do two things. First, research as many guns as you possibly can. Visit websites that offer user reviews and forums that allow you to ask questions of your fellow hunters. They can provide you with information about your potential purchase and give you an idea of how accurate it will be.
After you have thoroughly researched your hunting rifle, visit a store where you can talk to a salesman directly, hold the rifle and make sure it fits your needs both in weight, length, and experience level. With the right research and preparation you should be able to find the perfect hunting rifle for your needs.