The BR Shooting Journal HomePage

My New Homepage

2011-10-22T21:50:00.003-04:00

I can't believe that I maxed out the photo capacity allowed by Blogger, so as of October 2011 all new posts with photos are on new pages. The BRShooting Journal Homepage continues HERE.

The Obama administration quietly releases new documents on secret gun-running operation...

2011-10-02T09:33:00.001-04:00

"...ATF agents say that in Fast and Furious, their agency allowed thousands of assault rifles and other weapons to be sold to suspected traffickers for Mexican drug cartels. At least two of the guns turned up at the murder scene of Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry last December..." MORE

This makes Watergate look like child's play.

PETA plans porn website to promote message

2011-09-23T21:46:00.000-04:00

If there was ever an question that PETA is nuts and out of the American mainstream, this proves it:

"...Rajt says the website will feature graphic videos and photographs. She noted that PETA has used porn stars and nudity to get its message across in the past. She says a pornographic site will allow PETA to reach a broader audience and that publicity about the site is just as important as the site itself... MORE

Coyote Attack Kills Great Dane In Newington, CT

2011-09-22T18:37:00.000-04:00

"...The owner said the attack occurred in her backyard as she focused on a puppy. The Great Dane was at the end of its lead when the confrontation occurred with the coyote. The coyote did not maul the Great Dane, but there was a quick confrontation. The coyote then ran off into some nearby woods, where the owner said she has heard coyote pups making noise..." MORE

Carry your handgun. ~Bob

Anthony Imperato in East Hartford, CT

2011-09-19T22:55:00.000-04:00

Anthony Imperato, the President of Henry Repeating Arms paid Cabela's in East Hartford a visit last Saturday.

Boycott Walgreens!

2011-09-12T19:35:00.001-04:00

Pharmacist Fires Back at Gunmen, Fired By Walgreens

In Benton Township, Michigan, two armed robbers wearing masks burst into a near-deserted Walgreens at 4:30 a.m. Drawing his own gun, Jeremy Hoven fired at the attackers and drove them off, saving not just himself but two Walgreens co-workers as well as the pharmacy's valuable prescription drugs. Hoven had a pistol permit and should be honored as a hero. Join me in boycotting Walgreens and letting them know why. Thanks! ~Bob

WATCH THE VIDEO

CONTACT WALGREENS

My letter to Walgreens:
"I am the author of The BR Shooting Journal, a series of hunting and shooting blogs with over 200,000 hits. I am asking my readers to boycott your stores in support of Jeremy Hoven, of Benton Township, Michigan. Jeremy should be honored as a hero, and I'm sure the 80 million gun owners in America would agree. I am not looking for an explanation. I want a change in policy. Your stores are unsafe as this video proves, and I am thankful that at least one employee has the courage to take a stand against crime."

Mike Adams and his family honor the memory of 9-11

2011-09-11T19:13:00.001-04:00

"This is how me and the kids ended our 9-11 observance"

This is how Mike Adams, his two youngest, Jake and Madalyn and oldest son Michael Jr. honor the memory of 9-11. This is what I call REAL Homeland Security. It gives me great joy to see young people exercising their Second Amendment rights. Thank you Mike. Mike is the author of the 'Up North Journal' website and podcast as well as being a great dad.

Why Hunt, Fish and Trap?

2011-09-09T17:30:00.000-04:00

"Guns kill people like spoons make Rosie O'Donnell fat".

Recycle Your Squirrel Tails!

2011-09-09T16:01:00.004-04:00

We recycle… but we don't want your old aluminum cans or plastic soda bottles. We do, however, want your squirrel tails. We need them to create hand-tied dressed hooks that do a great job catching fish. We know this for a fact because, here at Mepps, we've been recycling squirrel tails for about a half a century, and we recycle more of them than anyone else. This makes us some kind of recycling pioneer and we're proud of it.

We've tried hundreds of other materials, both natural and synthetic and nothing else works as well. Todd Sheldon discovered this in the early 1960's. While fishing the Wolf River with Mepps spinners, he caught his limit of trout and was heading back to his car when he met a boy who also had limited out fishing with Mepps. But, all of the boy's trout were larger than Todd's. This is not something easily accepted by any fisherman.

Todd noticed the Mepps spinner attached to the boy's line had a tuft of squirrel tail tied to the hook so he began experimenting with dressed hooks. Bear hair was tried as well as fox, coyote, badger, skunk, deer, even Angus cow. But the only two tails that provided the pulsating action Todd was looking for were squirrel tails and buck tails.

Squirrel tail quickly became the dressing of choice for Mepps trout spinners, while larger spinners for trophy musky, pike and bass were dressed with bucktail. It wasn't long before Mepps Bucktails had caught more trophy musky and northern pike than any other lure in the world. We have been recycling squirrel and deer tails ever since.

"Squirrel Tails Wanted" reads the large carved wooden sign on Wisconsin's highway 45 north in Antigo. The sign amuses some folks, but it intrigues others so much they stop to find out what we're all about. This is fine with us. We welcome inquisitive visitors and offer weekday tours. Our favorite visitors are hunters who stop by with tails to sell. While we buy squirrel tails from individual hunters, almost all of our deer tails come from fur buyers or meat processors.

Processing both squirrel and buck tails is a lot of work. Upon arrival every buck tail must be trimmed to remove any body hair. Squirrel tails seldom need trimming, but they do need to be sorted and graded. All of the tails, however, need to be washed, not once, but several times. After drying, some are left natural while others are dyed brilliant hues. They are then carefully packaged and stored until needed. When needed, they are placed in the hands of a skilled fly tyer, where they become a Mepps dressed hook.

NOTE: Mepps is only interested in recycling tails taken from squirrels that have been harvested for the table. We do not advocate taking squirrels strictly for their tails. It is illegal to sell squirrel tails in the states of CA, ID, and OR.

Squirrel Tail Recycling Program Article in PDF Format

Squirrel Tail Payment Information

Most folks that send us squirrel tails double their value by trading them for Mepps lures. All-in-all, not a bad deal. They get a great day afield and get to enjoy the stew, too. Then they take the part they used to throw away, offer it to us to recycle and we send them Mepps spinners in return. What a deal!
Shipping refunded on 50 tails or more. Ship by UPS or First Class mail only. No refund on insurance charges or service fees charged by independent mailing services.
For all good quality tails we pay the following:

Gray, Fox & Black Squirrel Tails
- 16 ¢ each — under 100
- 19 ¢ each — over 100
- 21 ¢ each — over 500
- 22 ¢ each — over 1000

Premium Tails
- 20 ¢ each — under 100
- 23 ¢ each — over 100
- 25 ¢ each — over 500
- 26 ¢ each — over 1000

Red Squirrel Tails (Hair at the base of the tail must be at least 1" long)
- 8 ¢ each — under 100
- 9 ¢ each — over 100
- 10 ¢ each — over 500
- 11 ¢ each — over 1000

Squirrel Tail Payment Information

Please follow these instructions carefully:

Tails are best on squirrels taken after October 1st.
Do NOT remove the bone from the tail. Deboned and split tails have no value.
Salt the butt end of the tail generously. Use either dry salt or dip in a strong saltwater solution.
Be sure the tail is straight before drying. Tails that dry in a curled position cannot be used.
Keep tails away from flies. Best storage is in a freezer. Do not send tails that have been exposed to flies.
Do not put tails in a plastic bag for storage or shipment. They could heat up and spoil.
The best time to ship is during cold weather months (Jan, Feb, & Mar). Dried squirrel tails may be shipped anytime.
Put your name, address, phone number, e-mail address, and tail count inside each package.
Send your tails to:
   Sheldons', Inc.
   626 Center St.
   Antigo, WI 54409-2496
http://www.mepps.com/programs/squirrel-tail/

Jim's opening day of squirrel season

2011-09-06T23:10:00.000-04:00

Hi, Bob This morning was very foggy. Woods were all misty and surreal. Fog means no wind, great to see any activity but also keeps the animals down a bit. Minutes after sneaking into the woods, I was quietly walking a trail and heard a 'snuffle'. Right there, not ten feet from me was a skunk! Decided to leave him alone and see what he did. He just was finding a place for the day, I guessed. Have seen coon near this spot before and, sure enough, there was one climbing around in the tree just ahead of me. Big one, but let him go too. Not in season. I don't kill just to kill. Snuck about another 70 yrds or so just enjoying the morning. Two squirrels right over me. Had the one lined up and ready to shoot but he jumped at the last second and saved his own life even if he didn't know it! Fox squirrels sure make the branches jump around a lot. Loved it. Sat for a while, and saw no movement so I continued in the little patch of woods. Came closer to the creek that is the border and decided to give the Flextone Mimic call a try. Put on the wounded cottontail and IMMEDIATELY had a hawk respond, screaming, and the blue jays and little 'pecker' birds were everywhere! Amazing how you think there are no animals near you for 100 miles and make a sound, and there they are! All you have to do is make the right sound! Again, loved it! There was some strange sounds that I didn't couldn't identify when I put on the baby coon but am sure something was close to me. Calling WORKS!For a little handheld unit, I am continued to be impressed by this thing. You think it's not that loud until you're in the woods, everything is very quiet, and then all the animals come to check it out. At least, the birds are the first to come. Great fun. Got too hot soon and was out of the woods by 9:30. Way early in the season, still time for many more walks. Best time of the year. BTW, didn't have to clean anything but the barn! Jim~

Medal of Honor Recipient Presented With Custom Henry Rifle At Cheyenne Frontier Days

2011-09-04T19:49:00.003-04:00

United States Army Veteran Sal Giunta was awarded the Medal of Honor on November 16th 2010 for his actions and bravery in retrieving wounded soldiers during an ambush by Taliban forces in Afghanistan.Mr. Giunta was presented with a one of a kind Henry Golden Boy rifle during a ceremony at halftime of the CBR Bull Riding Championship at Cheyenne Frontier Days. Mr. Giunta served two tours of duty, a total of 27 months. (photo courtesy of F.E. Warren Air Force Base collection)

Tips When Stopped By Police

2011-09-01T22:49:00.000-04:00

If you're like most people who carry a firearm, you make an extra effort to obey every law in order to avoid drawing attention to yourself, or having an encounter with a police officer. It's a fact that some officers aren't familiar with gun laws, and may possibly over react to the situation. So what do you do should you be pulled over by an officer? This video will give you some good basic information, though local laws may differ. Check with your police department and research the web to make yourself familiar with local laws, but this video will give you good basic advice.

Tips When Stopped By Police

Bobcat in Southington, CT

2011-08-31T22:59:00.003-04:00

From my cousin Roy today...

"Bob, My son photographed this bobcat on West St. in Southington.---Roy"

Henry Repeating Arms Day, Sept. 17th, Cabela's East Hartford, CT

2011-08-28T21:02:00.001-04:00

Front row center: Anthony Imperato, President/Owner
(with the Henry staff)

Henry Repeating Arms Day

Sept. 17, Saturday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at the Gun Counter.Join Henry Repeating Arms owner Anthony Imperato as he displays and explains the rich history of his company’s firearms.

Store Address:475 East Hartford Blvd. NorthEast Hartford, CT 06118GPS Coordinates:N 41° 45.21' W 72° 37.21'Phone: (860) 290-6200

My sister at the range

2011-08-21T20:46:00.000-04:00

I honestly never thought I'd ever see my sister holding a gun, never mind looking like she's having fun shooting it. I told you you'd like it! I wish I could have gone shooting with her, but she lives on the other side of the country. I'm proud of you Claudia! Now I need to buy you an NRA membership.

Gun Makers Set Sights On Female Buyers

2011-08-21T09:32:00.002-04:00

"For years, gun stores were predominantly patronized by men. But these days, shooting ranges and shops selling firearms are seeing more female customers than ever before, and that has them changing the way they do business..." MORE

CT resident hunters already knew the Mountain Lion originated in upstate NY

2011-08-20T13:00:00.002-04:00

"Cougar killed by CT car had passed through NY "

The latest bogus headline about the mountain lion which was recently killed in CT.

"LAKE GEORGE, N.Y. — Environmental officials say a cougar killed by a car in Connecticut tramped through upstate New York last year, a rare sighting in a state where the big cats are believed to have been gone for more than a century.

Cindy Eggleston reported seeing the cat in her Lake George backyard in December. Her husband David, a former Department of Environmental Conservation colonel, and DEC officer Louis Gerrain took pictures of the tracks and gathered hairs...." MORE

What proof do they have that it "passed through" NY and didn't originate there? CT hunters have said for years that our mountain lion population came from upstate NY. Many believe they were put there to control the exploding deer and coyote populations, but that's just conjecture.

Just this week an guy who works in my office space informed me that a mid-size mountain lion, long tail all, passed right in front of his girlfriend's car a day earlier.

We don't need any more proof DEP.

Desiree' and Ted Nugent ROCK!!!!

2011-08-13T22:53:00.004-04:00

Desiree' is one of the few things that still make me proud to be from Connecticut. Have you ever seen anyone have more fun playing Rock'n Roll than this girl?! GO DESIREE'!!

Product testing tomorrow

2011-08-13T20:19:00.000-04:00

The weather doesn't look too promising, but I'm hoping to shoot rain or shine. I'll be testing out some new products for the .380. Check out my .380 page for the full story.

Police urge holster use after man shoots his own penis

2011-08-09T13:17:00.002-04:00

"As Chandler residents Joshua Seto, 27, and his fiancée, Cara Christopher, walked over to a Fry's Food Store for refreshments, he tried securing her pink handgun in the front waistband of his pants. The gun fired, striking Seto's penis and continuing through his left thigh. The bleeding started immediately and was heavy, according to police dispatch recordings released Sunday..." MORE

Now after you stop laughing, realize that there's a lesson to be learned here. ALWAYS USE A HOLSTER! ~Bob

Man holds would-be robbers at gunpoint until cops arrive in New Haven (video)

2011-08-02T21:02:00.001-04:00

"NEW HAVEN — Brandon Kruse went out for some sushi and a beer on State Street, but instead found himself surrounded by three young teens. One punched him in the head.

Surrounded and believing he was about to be mugged, Kruse, a 29-year-old sales manager, pulled out his .40-caliber handgun — and ultimately helped police capture all three assailants... MORE

Bombshell: White House Knew About ATF Gunrunning Scandal

2011-07-30T21:15:00.006-04:00

"A few weeks ago, I wrote about the ATF's "Fast and Furious" or "Gunwalker" scandal, which appears to reach the highest levels of the Justice Department. Read the whole magazine article here, but the short version is that the Justice Department knowingly allowed thousands of weapons to fall in the hands of criminals in Mexico that were then used to kill U.S. law enforcement agents.

Well, today a bombshell dropped. It's not just the Justice Department that looks culpable -- it looks like the White House was briefed on the operation as well..." MORE

Considering that the White House has been using this information against the citizens of the United States to deprive them of their Second Amendment rights, I'm wondering if this is an impeachable offense? This makes Watergate look like child's play. ~Bob

Taking Care of Business

2011-07-29T22:41:00.001-04:00

A Henry taking care of the varmints that are destroying a garden and hopefully another soon to be owner in the family. Henry H001 with CCI CB shorts at about 20 yrds first shot was clean. Now to get the rest plus a groundhog... One more thing, this is allowed to remove animals who are wreaking havoc on a garden, but they can not be kept (harvested). If it was a Deer a permit would be required. ~Jon

Now the DEP REALLY owes the residents of CT an apology.

2011-07-26T18:05:00.003-04:00

Well, the DEP ran their tests and they can no longer use the excuse that the mountain lion killed June 11th in Milford was an escaped house pet. No, instead they are saying that this lion took a long walk from South Dakota to CT. In other words, they are once again saying that this was a freak, one of a kind incident.

Over the years the DEP has treated the citizens of CT as dolts, who are incapable of distinguishing a mountain lion from a coyote. There have been so many sightings that everyone knows that CT has a substantial mountain lion population. But even if they didn't, many people who called in sighting may very well have seen this mountain lion wandering through the state. At least to those people the DEP should apologize. They seem to forget that they work for us, and the citizens of CT are not here simply to write out their paycheck.

By the way, I was listening to 'State and Church' with Governor Roland and an older woman called the show who said that she and a friend clearly saw a mountain lion recently, which included a long tail. Boy, that one cat sure gets around!

"Esty: 'The journey of this mountain lion is a testament to the wonders of nature and the tenacity and adaptability of this species'...". To that, I can only respond, another political smokescreen and pure unadulterated BS!

Here are recent link to the story:
http://www.courant.com/news/breaking/hc-mountain-lion-dna-20110726,0,3798831.story

Judge: BlueTrail not responsible for alleged lead contamination, stray bullets

2011-07-22T17:34:00.000-04:00

"WALLINGFORD- A three-year lawsuit was put to rest Friday when aHartford Superior Court judge ruled that Blue Trail Range and itsowner were not responsible for alleged lead contamination or bulletholes a local man said plagued his neighboring property.... MORE

BREAKING NEWS: Blue Trail Range Wins Lawsuits!

2011-07-18T20:49:00.007-04:00

The Connecticut Superior Court has just ended the sensational and contentious lawsuits brought by Durham land owner Pasquale DiNatale against Blue Trail Range of Wallingford, ruling in favor of the range on all counts. Blue Trail was defended by the Law Offices of Martha A. Dean of Avon, CT, supported by Craig C. Fishbein of Wallingford, CT.

YAHOO!!!!!! Thank you Martha! Great work. This was important as you well know. Congratulations Blue Trail Range! ~Bob

My new .380 site

2011-07-08T21:20:00.003-04:00

I can tell that the .380 is a caliber that has generated a lot of interest within the concealed carry community. For that reason I'm in the process of creating a devoted .380 page at http://brshooting-380-journal.blogspot.com/, which as you can figure is called 'The BR .380 Journal'. Expect to see a lot of range shooting photos, videos and stories, as well as ammo and accessory tests. This will be fun so check back as it develops. Looking forward to hearing from you under 'Comments'.

Field Testing Pro Hear II

2011-07-08T19:20:00.002-04:00

Over the coming month I'll be field testing a digital sound amplifier and hearing protection unit by Pro Ears called Pro Hear II. If you follow this blog you know that I've been wearing a pair of Pro Ears Pro Muffs whenever revolver hunting or shooting at the range for the past few years. For Father's Day I received a cowboy-style NRA hat that I can't wear when shooting because the muffs don't work with it. I contacted Altus Brands and they recommended their Pro Hear unit. It looks similar to a small hearing aid that plugs into the ear with a tiny unit about an inch long that goes behind the ear.

The set comes with a good set of plugs that you use to block the other ear. If this works correctly, my right ear should hear amplified sound while filtering gunshots and the left ear will be blocked. I often shoot with large caliber guns on either side, so I always double plug (ear plugs w/ Pro Ears muffs over the top). Without both my ears are guaranteed to be ringing. I still have a hard time believing that these tiny units will replace a double-plug, but I'll test them and let you know how they work. If they don't do the job at the range, they should be great for hunting, especially when it's too hot to wear muffs. Check back for the test.

I got me a bigger mug!!

2011-07-08T12:06:00.005-04:00

Thanks Claudia and Eddie for the excellent birthday cup! How did you have any idea that I'd like it?

First thoughts on the Ruger LCP .380

2011-07-07T23:28:00.012-04:00

It's been a few years since I was issued my Connecticut Pistol permit. I came into the handgun market with very little experience. I qualified with a .45 in the military some 30 years ago, but that was the limit of my handgun experience. When I took the CT handgun course, I had the opportunity to shoot a .22LR revolver, a 9mm and a 40mm semi-auto. When the class ended we drove to the local range and each of us got to shoot about a dozen rounds through each gun. It obviously wasn't enough time to get the feel for the firearm and with plugs, shooting all around and 15 people waiting to shoot, there was no time for discussion with the instructor. How was I later supposed to make an educated decision on what type of gun to buy for concealed carry?

Not having anyone to discuss guns with, I went to a gunshop and asked a salesman for advice. BAD IDEA. He immediately steered me to a S&W .38 Special AirWeight and explained that this is the biggest seller for concealed carry. I ignorantly bought it and quickly discovered that the gun was no fun at all to shoot. I also couldn't hit the broad side of a barn with the short sight radius on a 2" barrel. The salesman never had the courtesy to inform me that the lighter the gun, the greater the felt recoil.

I lived with this gun for a couple of years, shooting it regularly until I almost became used to the recoil. Installing a set of Crimson Trace Lasergrips on it improved my ability to hit the target immensely, though the dot couldn't be seen outside on a sunny day. I finally traded the .38 in for a Ruger SP101 .357 Magnum. It will function as a double-action house gun. It's heavier, easier to shoot, accurate, more powerful than the .38 Special, and it can also shoot .38 Special ammo. Now I have a great shooting house gun, but that still didn't solve my need for a concealed carry firearm.

Typical .380 LCP group at about 25' from unsupported standing position

A month or so ago my daughter and her friend were victims of an attempted car jacking which quickly changed their attitude toward guns and dad. Suddenly I was no longer a 'gun nut' and both girls wanted to quickly learn how to shoot. My buddy and I pulled together 8 handguns for the girls to try (I wish someone did this for me!), and one was a .380. I was amazed at the amount of power contained in that small package. I did a bit of research, comparing features, price and reliability and ended up buying the Ruger LCP .380, today being my first opportunity to test it.

SIZE AND CARRY
First let me mention the size. I couldn't ask for anything easier to carry. The gun can be dropped in the front pocket of your shorts and you will soon forget that you are carrying it. It's the perfect Summer carry gun.

RECOIL AND ACCURACY
Recoil and muzzle rise is minimal. Much less than a .38 Special and the gun fit my hand well. With the airweight I was lucky to hit a paper plate at 25 feet from a standing position. With the .380 I was consistently getting groups of two or three inches at 25 ft. I was very impressed.

PROBLEMS
The only problem was that I got a stovepipe almost every time I fired off the last round in the magazine. I'm guessing it's because the gun needs to be lubricated and it isn't broken in. I heard that it will take 300+ rounds to do that. The jams were easy to clear. I was careful not to get sloppy in the wrist because I've heard that most jams in these small guns are the result of limp wristed shooters. If the gun recoils with the slide, the case can't eject properly.

CLEANING
This is my first semi-auto, and it only took a minute to disassemble the gun for cleaning. Push the slide a tad rearward and pull a pin with a small screwdriver. The slide, barrel and spring come off and it couldn't be easier to clean. This handgun can be thoroughly cleaned in about 5 minutes, where a .38 revolver could take a half hour.

FINAL THOUGHT
I was very impressed with this little gun. As of today, I really like it and I'm looking forward to getting out again soon to shoot. I'll keep you updated as I break the gun in and try a variety of ammo and pick up a few accessories.

For more, visit my new .380 page!

No wonder I love my Henry's so much! A look back to my childhood...

2011-06-26T16:04:00.004-04:00

They're not Henry's, but close enough!

Big-cat activist gives own theory on mountain lions

2011-06-21T22:00:00.004-04:00

...Based on his own observation of a "big cat track" in Clarence Fahnestock State Park ("It wasn't a bobcat track," he said) and the recurring reports of mountain lions in Putnam and beyond, the Mahopac expert discounts the explanation that every mountain lion supposedly wandering the wilder fringes of suburbia is a formerly captive animal... wardy, a nurse, and her husband, a teacher, watched a mountain lion in their yard in December. The couple live off Nichols Street, near protected state and New York City watershed land.

"My husband and I could not believe what we were seeing, but it was a completely unobstructed view, and the animal stood still for quite a while, swishing its long tail back and forth," she added... MORE

A Comment from Bob~

I'm beginning to hear comments in the press that there's something not to be believed about the recent slew of mountain lion sightings. Some are claiming that group hysteria is responsible.

The fact is that sightings are reported from person to person, hunter to hunter, and called into the DEP on a regular basis. These reports rarely make the press because they are not taken seriously. When I reported a close encounter with a mountain lion right outside the DEP office a few years ago, no one contacted the media for a follow-up. The DEP didn't even bother stepping out their door and walking a minute down the wooded road to verify my report. I was treated like an ignorant child who couldn't figure out the difference between a dog and a cat (read the letter below). I'm betting my report never was put to paper or spoken of beyond the person who answered my call.

As far as this being a recent trend, don't you believe it. Mountain lions are out there, and they are numerous. Keep an eye out and be careful when predator calling, especially when alone. Watch your children in the woods, while hiking along paths and walking down back roads where you live. Conceal carry when possible but never shoot unless attacked. Carry a camera and look for prints and evidence after a sighting. Don't keep the information to yourself. Report it to the press. Stay safe. ~Bob

The following is a response to a recent report that I emailed into the DEP after I was warned of mountain lions being spotted in the area where I walk. This was not far from the area of my own sighting. You decide. Part of this email has already been proven wrong by the recent road kill.

Mr. Rich,

I would not let the possible presence of a mountain lion stop you from walking where you want to. As I said we do not have a wild population in this state or any state within 1000 miles. People mistake deer, coyotes, bobcats and other animals for mountain lions all the time. We have investigated at least a 100 alleged mountain lion sightings over the last 10 years or so. All turn out to be bobcats, coyotes or other
animals. I assure you, at a quick glance a bobcat can look like a small mountain lion. People often see a trailing back leg they mistake for a long tail. People that have spent their entire lives in the woods have sent us pictures claiming it was a mountain lion.......all of them turn out to be bobcats upon our inspection. We pick up 30-40 bobcats, 10-20 bears, 60-70 fishers, and thousands of deer each year on the roads of
this state. We have never picked up a mountain lion. We have never been given an actual picture of a mountain lion (imagine this with all the trail cameras out there). We have never been given a picture of a track that even resembled a mountain lion track. Talk to a biologist in any nearby state and they will tell you the same thing. As far as the horse, a bear can do a number on a horse (although they rarely attack livestock) I assure you, we do not have a wild population of mountain lions in CT. Hope this helps,

Jason Hawley
Furbearer/Bear Program
CT DEP Wildlife Division
Sessions Woods WMA
Burlington, CT
860-675-8130
jason.hawley@ct.gov

Necropsy to be done on mountain lion killed in Milford

2011-06-21T21:52:00.000-04:00

"...It was also revealed this week that scat samples -- animal droppings -- found in Greenwich earlier this month are from a mountain lion, Gardner said... There have been several mountain lion sightings in Greenwich and throughout the state this month, with the latest coming Monday when a driver reported seeing one in Tolland... MORE

DEP's stance on mountain lions disquieting

2011-06-21T21:49:00.000-04:00

"...Keep in mind that until the DEP had an actual dead mountain lion in its possession it maintained there were no such cats -- cougars, pumas or ghosts of the forest -- living in the Land of Steady Habits... the DEP, without any scientific backing from the mountain cat carcass, thinks we should believe these two sightings so close together are of one and the same animal. That's illogical. And dumb. The public is better served if our environmental protection folks warn us to pay attention to our surroundings, keep a close eye on wandering tots and tell us how to better fend off an attack if we find ourselves in the vicinity of these cats... MORE

'Credible' Report Of Mountain Lion In Fairfield

2011-06-17T23:08:00.002-04:00

FAIRFIELD—

Paul Hiller was on his way to work Friday morning when he saw what he's certain was a mountain lion cross the road about 100 feet ahead of his car.
Hiller, Fairfield's chief fiscal officer, has seen a lot of photos of mountain lions in recent days and is certain what he saw about 8:20 a.m. Friday was a mountain lion...

DEP spokesman Dennis Schain said the agency investigates all reports, but has not substantiated any sightings. DEP also continues to believe the mountain lion killed in Milford had been in captivity but escaped into the wild. There is no native mountain lion population in the state, Schain said... MORE

WHEN WILL THE COVER-UP END?! OK DEP. If you are so positive that there are no mountain lions in CT, open the hunting season on them. What do you have to lose? Or maybe you're afraid that once we get out there with predator calls we will start stacking them like firewood on your doorstep.

Check out yours truly on the Maximum Eyewear page

2011-06-14T21:46:00.006-04:00

Maximum Eyewear.com posted these mugshots on their page to promote my shooting and reloading goggles. CLICK THIS LINK to visit the site where you can get a good look at these fine products. They're nice people who sell good stuff. Check it out, and tell them I sent you!

They're Everywhere: NBC crew spots mountain lion in Bethany...

2011-06-14T17:55:00.001-04:00

"Two NBC Connecticut staff members spotted what appeared to be a mountain lion in Bethany on Tuesday morning. Photographer Dave Mulligan and reporter Brynn Gingras were traveling north on Route 63 in Bethany around 7 a.m. when an animal that looked like a mountain lion darted across the road from the woods. They braked to avoid hitting the animal and reported the sighting to the state Department of Environmental Protection..." MORE

Another Mountain Lion Sighting in CT!

2011-06-12T19:46:00.004-04:00

What's it going to take the the DEP to admit that we have a mountain lion population in CT? I'm waiting for them to tell us that it's the same one that was killed a few days ago and it resurrected from the dead... My buddy just corrected me by saying that cats have 9 lives. Ya! That's the ticket!
Greenwich Mountain Lion Reportedly Spotted Again: Police
The publicly accessible trails at a 300-acre wildlife sanctuary in northwest Greenwich were closed Sunday following a reported sighting of a mountain lion on a private property that abuts it, officials say... READ THE STORY

EVEN THE CT DEP CAN'T DENY THIS MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTING!

2011-06-11T12:49:00.009-04:00

State police photo

MILFORD, Conn. -- State police were investigating an accident that occurred Friday night on Route 15 in Milford near exit 55. Police said a Hyundai Tucson operated by Sigred Lacson of Newington was traveling in the left lane when it struck an animal. The Department of Environmental Protection confirmed the animal was indeed a mountain lion and was deceased at the scene. The driver was uninjured. Officials have not said if the mountain lion was the same one that was spotted on Wednesday in Greenwich.
http://www.wfsb.com/news/28205779/detail.html

The DEP owes me and many others an apology for treating us like idiots over the years for reporting mountain lion sightings, claiming that there are no mountain lions in the state of Connecticut. If you follow this blog you know that I sighted one at close range about three years ago, and the DEP has the audacity to say that I saw a bobcat or a coyote. I don't know about you, but I learned the difference between a cat and a dog before I could walk.

There's obviously a cover-up going on. I suggest that the DEP stop playing games with the citizens of this state (who pay their salaries) and take action immediately to warn those walking or recreating in the reported areas.

I've been stopped twice while walking the block during breaks at work by salesmen making sales calls. One warning came just a month ago by a salesman who said he had three sightings in recent days. About a year ago, another salesman stopped me and told me his story. He said he had gotten out of his car to make a sales call when all of a sudden he spotted a mountain lion come out of the treeline and sit in the middle of the road. He said he was so afraid that he went into the lobby of the nearest building.

I called the DEP right after the most recent contact and they once again blew me off with the same excuse; that the salesman saw a coyote or a bobcat. It's obvious that they must believe that none of the state's residents are as smart as people who work for the DEP.

A new High School was recently built down the street from where these sightings took place, and young people regularly walk back and forth from school down these roads. If a student ends up getting mauled, I guarantee that excrement will hit the fan. I suggest that the DEP come clean.

How much would you like to bet that the official DEP statement will be that this was an isolated incident of an escaped house-pet? It won't work.

...DO I KNOW THE DEP OR WHAT?!...
"On Wednesday, after the sighting in Greenwich, the DEP issued a press release saying: "Based on photographs taken of the animal and other evidence, it appears that the animal is a mountain lion that has been held in captivity and was released or escaped."

I was thinking, if the DEP is so sure that this is the only mountain lion in the state, why don't they simply open up the season on them? According to the DEP, hunters would just be wasting their time and they would have nothing to lose. On the positive side, the sale of guns, ammo, camo, calls and such would increase. Instead of watching TV, sportsman will be getting exercise moving gear around the countryside during the time of year when nothing but coyote and chucks are in season. Or maybe, they're afraid that if we get out there blowing distress calls, we might start revealing what's really going on out there.

R. Lee Ermey shoots a Henry

2011-06-10T21:01:00.000-04:00

Took this off my TV while watching 'Lock N' Load'

A flintlock poem by Scott Allen. Enjoy!

2011-06-09T19:09:00.003-04:00

"A Poem from my brother....If any one is planning to get into flintlock rifles, this one is for you." ~Steve Allen

Read on my brother and you shall see of the trial of the flintlock and your younger brother me.
The research was solid the idea was sound but the devil was in the detail was what I have found.
With visions of Boone twirling in my head the rifle would get the meat I would get the bread.
The gun was purchased and was all apart, but I would assemble and polish with love in my heart.
With willing hands and good intentions I labored along without bad premonitions.
The day finally came to fire the grand old dame so I headed out the door to predestined flintlock fame.
I opened the lock and brushed with a feather,then I inspected the flint snug in fine leather.
I measured the powder with the skill of a surgeon, then I rammed down the ball without any urging.
Then with the small horn I filled the pan plum,but on passing the flint I split open my thumb.
With my thumb in my mouth the bleeding can't last, but the neighbor sure stared as he slowed when he passed.
When my thumb was all wrapped and the pan with dry prime, I looked at the target and knew it was time.
With eyes all asquinty I steadied my nerve, I looked down my sights with nary reserve.
The trigger was tightened and then fell the cock, white smoke then billowed but just from the lock.
The sinner was lowered to see whats amiss, then looking at the touch hole I heard a slight hiss.
The silence was shattered with a whiz and crack, and the flash from the touch hole turned my eye black.
The ball was unaimed and found a flat rock in its going, and upon its return it found my soft loin.
My eye is healing and will open a little,my pod is still swollen and it hurts when I piddle.
My thumb is draining and red and smells rank, it may just fall off from infection I think.
The rifle is stored my afflictions will pass, and the whole Dixie Gun Works can kiss my modern ass...

Love it! Thanks Scott and Steve! It's not all that often I come across a poem about a rifle. In fact, I have NEVER come across a poem about a rifle. I hope you consider writing us a Henry poem! Thanks again guys. ~Bob

ONE TRILLION

2011-06-05T09:14:00.000-04:00

"CCI makes 1,000,000 rounds of .22 LR ammo daily. If you figure about 250 workdays a year, it would take four years to make a billion - and 4,000 years to make a trillion. So when the government says "We're 7 trillion dollars in debt" I hope this puts things into perspective." (Thanks to American Handgunner Magazine)

My daughter's first shoot

2011-05-15T10:22:00.002-04:00

Up until last week my 21 year old daughter and her friends showed zero interest in my love of firearms, hunting or shooting, and in fact, it had become a joke in my house that dad's become a gun nut. I said "until last week". Friday my daughter (a 3rd year college student) contacted me and said that she and her long time friend were interested in looking into getting handgun permits. As you can guess, I was eager to give them the opportunity to give shooting a try, especially since I have gained so much enjoyment from it over the years, and I feel so strongly about the vital importance of the Second Amendment... CLICK HERE for more, and to see the video.

Dances with Wolves

2011-05-08T20:38:00.004-04:00

It's taken me about 21 years to finally get around to see this film. There were some excellent Civil War scenes that you will enjoy if you're a Civil War buff like I am. The reason that I'm posting this is because Kevin Costner's rifle is a Civil War Henry. Here's a LINK to the movie, a shot I took off the screen and another the I found on the web. It's a movie worth watching, though I doubt it's very factual. They portray both the Native American Indian and the White Man as having both good and bad, until the movie's end. American soldiers are then portrayed as total idiotic barbarians who shoot wolves while laughing like drunken sailors who can't hit the broad side of a barn. They literally wipe their backsides with art and fine literature, while the Indians are portrayed as sensitive, peaceful and fun-loving people who want nothing more than to smoke their peace pipes and make love. I found the liberal bias to be nothing short of revolting. I recommend watching the film until you see the Costner shooting the buffalo with the Henry. Then turn it off.

Winchester '73

2011-04-05T22:29:00.001-04:00

"Perhaps the pinnacle in the series of Anthony Mann/Jimmy Stewart Westerns, Winchester '73 stars Stewart as obsessed cowhand Lin McAdam. The trouble starts when McAdam wins a valuable Winchester 1873 repeating rifle in a shooting contest -- which his brother instantly steals. This leads to a picaresque series of adventures as McAdam journeys far and wide to track down the weapon. Shelley Winters, Tony Curtis and Rock Hudson co-star."

I'm not a big fan of cowboy movies, but this movie is excellent. There's even Henry's in it. It's the only cowboy I've ever seen where the star is a rifle, and Jimmy Stewart is better than ever. You can stream it on NetFlix. ~Bob

Gun-Free Zones, an Invitation for Tragedy

2011-03-30T07:06:00.006-04:00

This paper was sent to me from Sara Adler, a member of 'Students for Concealed Carry on Campus' (SCCC) at CCSU. I agree with you 100% Sara. Thanks very much for all your efforts to promote gun rights in CT. ~Bob

Do you feel safe on campus? Now I understand that we have New Britain Cops stationed on our campus and they do a great job, but they cannot be everywhere, all the time. That would just be improbable. Many of you do not know about the crimes, some of them violent, that occur on this campus. Often most rapes are not recorded as the victim does not want anybody to know what happened to them. Lately there has been an increase in ‘e-mail crime alerts' on campus. To me, this shows an indicator that we are not safe from exterior threats. There is no magical gate that differentiates between college campuses and public land. Which begs the question of how do we protect ourselves? How can students, faculty and staff protect themselves from anybody that wants to do us harm? As it stands today, the State of Connecticut allows citizens, who have a permit to carry a firearm, to carry their personal firearms in most areas (barring post offices, government buildings, public K-12 schools, etc) but Central and other schools have regulations that state that you cannot possess a firearm on their campus, marking it a “Gun-Free Zone”. When I hear the term “Gun-Free Zone” I chuckle, because there really is no such thing. To clarify, a “Gun-Free Zone” is intended to bar any and all firearms from a specific location (with exceptions for the police). Basically it is a sign that says “nobody here has a gun, we are all completely defenseless, come attack us;” it is an invitation. I firmly believe that “Gun-Free Zones” do not work. Let us take a look back at shootings that have unfortunately occurred in the past ( Mall shootings, Virginia Tech, Columbine etc). It obviously didn’t work then, so who is to say that it is ever going to? I am part of an organization called Students for Concealed Carry on Campus (SCCC). We believe that allowing permit holders to be able to carry their firearms on campus will decrease the incidence of campus crime. This has been proven that more guns in the hands of law abiding citizens, has a direct correlation to a decrease in crime (such as Utah State allowing campus carry, which resulted in the decrease of campus crime). I am not advocating that every student be handed an M-9 when they register for classes, rather, all I am asking for is that permit holders who already carry on a daily basis, be allowed to continue carrying while attending classes. This is not going disrupt classes or even be noticeable, as it is concealed carry. Meaning that nobody else knows that you are carrying; it is not something that is seen. The permit holder will have their gun in a holster, safely away from the public eye. What you may not know is that in Connecticut 2-10% of the population carries, which means that when you go do your shopping at Stop&Shop, or gas up your car at Shell, there are people carrying their own personal firearms around you, and you don't know it, nor does it affect you in any way or even put you at risk for that matter. During the week of April 4-8th, there will be students walking around with Empty holsters visibly on their body to show that all we have to protect ourselves with is an empty holster; we cannot fill it with a means to protect our lives against deadly force. These participants will be involved in the National Empty Holster Protest. This will be the third year that Central will be part of this nationwide event that is put on by SCCC, it is done through Centrals own Riflery and Marksmanship club, which will be going into its 4th year in the fall. For those of you who are interested in joining, we meet every Tuesday at 7pm, check our Facebook club (Riflery and Marksmanship) or ccsurifleryandmarksmanship@gmail.com for more information.

PETA Killed 94 Percent of Pets in Its Care in 2010

2011-03-25T20:01:00.000-04:00

According to its 2010 “Animal Record,” filed with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, PETA killed 94 percent of the cats and dogs in its shelter last year. PETA rationalizes that “open-admission shelters” like the one it operates provided these 2,200 animals with “a painless release from a world that does not want them.”... MORE

Armed Beauty Queen Fatally Shoots Intruder in Florida Home Invasion

2011-03-22T22:19:00.001-04:00

When a burly ex-convict forced his way into a posh Florida home last week, he had no idea what awaited him -- a 25-year-old beauty queen with a pink .38-caliber handgun. Meghan Brown, a former Florida pageant queen, shot and killed 42-year-old Albert Franklin Hill during a home invasion March 12 at the 2,732-square-foot house she shares with her fiance in Tierra Verde, Fla.

The legislators at the capital tomorrow should read this before they attempt to limit our magazine capacity to ten rounds. What if there were three assailants?

Connecticut lawmakers attack the Constitution!

2011-03-20T07:36:00.008-04:00

Connecticut is attempting to pass a bill Wednesday that will limit magazine capacity to 10 rounds. It's as unconstitutional as giving free speech rights but limiting possession of paper to a single sheet. Gun owners need to organize or we'll end up like Libya without an America to rescue us. Get on the phone and start emailing NOW!! Considering that the vast majority of those who govern the state are liberal democrats, we will lose this right if YOU don't take action NOW! If this passes, what will we lose next? Semi-autos? Carry rights? Ammo possession limitation? You think it won't happen? Just wait. I personally don't own anything that holds over 10 rounds, but this is a local attack on the constitution and personal freedom. It must not pass.

The person who kicks in your door at night is not going to limit the number of rounds he carries to 10, and I doubt that the security that protects the governor and his family will either.

To find your legislator, click here.
To contact the Joint Committee on the Judiciary, click here.

If you were not able to attend or watch on CT-N, you can view the video here.

CCDL UPDATE

As of late yesterday SB 1094 died in committee. This was without a doubt the most excessive anti- 2nd Amendment Bill in Hartford since Micro-stamping was introduced several years ago. It certainly could not have been defeated without the efforts of the members of this organization (CCDL) calling, writing and testfying. We would like to thank the members of the Judiciary Committee for seeing this Bill for what it really was, and other members of the General Assembly that heard our voices as well.
We also would like to mention the efforts of the NRA, CCS, and certainly the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

Support the construction of the Naugatuck, CT shooting facility

2011-03-17T22:55:00.002-04:00

Support the building of the new shooting range in Naugatuck, CT. The presence of shooting ranges and libraries are proof that the Constitution is still alive and well and we still live in the land of the free. Make more noise than the left which is opposing it. Let our support be heard! Get the word out.

CLICK HERE for the story

A tour of the flooded meadows

2011-03-14T20:39:00.000-04:00

Last Stand at Saber River

2011-02-23T21:05:00.001-05:00

I can't believe I've never seen this movie. Saw it posted on NetFlix tonight so I thought I'd bring it to your attention. Check out the vintage Civil War Henry! If you've seen it, please post your review in 'comments'. Amazon gave it 4.5 out of 5 stars.

'Why I Hunt' by Ron Smith

2011-02-19T13:27:00.000-05:00

"Last winter thanks in part to my nephew I returned to hunting. I hunted in high school with a couple of friends but life got busy college, married life and working for a living. That first day hunting with my nephew reminded me just how much I love being in the outdoors. I`ve become somewhat addicted to coyote hunting and had the pleasure last season on introducing my wife to hunting and she loved it. Conflicting schedules have forced me to hunt alone this year but I still love.

Many people ask me why I hunt and how can a dog lover hunt coyotes. Well there are several reasons. Here in SW Indiana coyotes have no natural predators. Having no natural predators they get overpopulated ans when the food supply in the woods gets scarce they move into populated areas where they attack livestock driving up food costs. They also attack pets. I love my dog but I have no problem killing another animal that threatens him. Every coyote that we hunters kill is one less coyote to eat your chickens or your cat.

Last night I carfeully laid out my hunting gear, rifle, magazines,ammo, atractant/cover scent and the bag that I store my hunting clothes in. This morning I got up put on my layers of hunting clothes applyng coyote in heat to each layer, hung my calls around my neck loaded my rifle in the truck droped my wife at work and headded for the Patoka River National Wildlife Refuge. A few minutes after 6:00 am I walked in from the west on a narrow trail through the woods to the top of a ridge overlooking the lake. I sat down in the brush and watched a full moon set it the west as the sun came up in the east watching the time on my cell phone for legal sunrise time. Just after sunrise the ducks and geese became active and a flock of blackbird flew over but no luck calling in coyotes. Last year I tracked on to the lake when it was frozen over. I walked out and drove to another entry point to the refuge about 3 miles to the east and walked in along the river setting up in a couple of clearings, no luck today. At least no luck hunting coyotes. Hoverver I had great luck getting away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and getting away from the concrete, asphalt, traffic lights, schedules, deadlines and commitments and enjoying the awsomeness of God`s creation. Which deep down in why I believe all of us hunt. Hunting takes us back to a simpler less stressful time that modern technology has stolen from us." Ron Smith (used by permission)

Congratulations Peter, Gracie, Alex and Anne-Marie!!

2011-02-16T22:47:00.002-05:00

I received this email from my sister in WA state regarding her son Peter and three of his six children:

"...I received an email from Peter that he, Gracie and Alex passed the hunters training course, written and firing a gun also I guess because he said that Anne-Marie passed the written test, but has to wait until next year to fire a gun for that part of the test..."

Excellent!! Congratulations to all of you, and I'm looking forward to regular contributions of photos and stories from your future hunting and shooting adventures. Love to all! ~Uncle Bob

Bagged my first chuck with the Single Six revolver

2011-02-16T22:28:00.002-05:00

From August 2009: Bagged my first chuck with the Single Six revolver

...GO TO THE STORY

Meditations on Hunting

2011-02-15T10:21:00.004-05:00

"One does not hunt in order to kill; on the contrary, one kills in order to have hunted...If one were to present the sportsman with the death of the animal as a gift he would refuse it. What he is after is having to win it, to conquer the ...surly brute through his own effort and skill with all the extras that this carries with it: the immersion in the countryside, the healthfulness of the exercise, the distraction from his job." Jose Ortega y Gasset, Meditations on Hunting.

Providence teaches their children to shred the Constitution

2011-02-12T18:50:00.002-05:00

What will they shred next? The Bible?

Providence program destroys children’s toy guns... MORE

Watch Cowboy Action Shooter Online - Free

2011-02-05T03:12:00.001-05:00

http://www.watchtheoutdoors.com/shows/cowboy-action-shooter.html

The liberals in CT want to know where to pick up our guns... and I assure you there will be taxes to follow

2011-02-05T00:23:00.005-05:00

HB 5800 AN ACT REQUIRING REGISTRATION OF ALL FIREARMS Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives in General Assembly convened: That section 29-33 of the general statutes be amended to (1) require that (A) any person who purchases a firearm register the firearm within ten days of purchase, (B) any person who purchased a firearm prior to this statute's effective date register that firearm within ten days of the effective date, (C) any person owning a firearm renew registration every five years, and (D) anyone whose registered firearm is sold, stolen or lost report such sale, theft or loss within ten days of such event; and (2) provide that the Department of Public Safety receive the registrations required by subdivision (1) of this section. Statement of Purpose: To require registration of all firearms.

How much would you like to bet that if this is passed, they will add a tax to renew each gun's registration?

"The beauty of the Second Amendment is that it will not be needed until they try to take it." Thomas Jefferson

Ron and Sheila Smith, Competitive Shooters

2011-02-01T19:15:00.002-05:00

"Bob we are shooting the NRA Light Rifle League at the Somerville Rifle and Pistol Club in Somerville Indiana. Club dues are $50 annually. We have both rifle and pistol leagues starting in January and running 12 weeks, the cost is $20 per league per shooter. All NRA rules apply. We are flexible and usually run over a couple of weeks to let shooters that missed a night catch up.

My wife Sheila's rifle is a Henry H001Y with a BSA 3-9x40 side focus scope, UTG cheek piece and a trigger job by Match Armorers Shop. Last year she qualified Distinguished Expert, her best score to date is 277-8x. My rifle is a Ruger 10/22 carbine glass bedded into a custom stock, the barrel is free floated, it has a trigger job by Match Armorers Shop and is topped off with a BSA 3-9x4 scope. Last year I qualified expert and my best score to date is 270-4x ~Ron Smith"

Thanks for the photos Ron. $50 annually?!! That's unheard of where I live. Congratulations to the both of you for the shooting awards and tell Sheila that's sure one fine looking Henry. ~Bob

Squirrel hunting without every leaving the comforts of home!

2011-01-30T15:03:00.001-05:00

I recommend using a North American Arms Mini-Master or a Pug. A rifle is too difficult to swing in such close quarters and a scope is definitely out of the question. From one pot into another and no blaze orange is required! Would this work for deer? I think I'll go loosen that sewer cover.

A real FOX NEWS story: Fox Shoots Man

2011-01-16T23:44:00.002-05:00

"MOSCOW – A wounded fox shot its would be killer in Belarus by pulling the trigger on the hunter's gun as the pair scuffled after the man tried to finish the animal off with the butt of the rifle, media said Thursday. The unnamed hunter, who had approached the fox after wounding it from a distance, was in hospital with a leg wound, while the fox made its escape, media said, citing prosecutors from the Grodno region. "The animal fiercely resisted and in the struggle accidentally pulled the trigger with its paw," one prosecutor was quoted as saying. Fox-hunting is popular in the picturesque farming region of northwestern Belarus which borders Poland."

Daniel "Red Bear" Bosques

2011-01-06T17:55:00.012-05:00

I had a vacation day remaining from 2010, so I decided to take Wednesday off to shoot at the range. I arrived at Blue Trail Range at around 9am and over the next 5 hrs put over 330 rounds of center-fire ammo down range. During that time I had the pleasure of meeting a shooter named Daniel "Red Bear" Bosques, a Native American who was shooting a beautiful flintlock called "Patrick Henry". I invited Dan to shot my Henry .44 magnum and .357 magnum rifles, and he in turn let me shoot his flintlock. The delay from the time the trigger is pulled until the gun fires as truly a new experience. I was about ready to put the rifle down when it finally went off (OK, I'm exaggerating a bit). It's things like this that make a day at the range a truly memorable experience.

Dan is involved in period reenactments, and that's one reason he needed an authentic rifle, which doesn't come cheap. He also told me that he has an exhibit of hand-crafted leather items at the Institute for American Indian Studies, in Washington, CT (birdstone.org), which has made headlines in 2 papers so far; one of them being the Litchfield County Times. Be sure to check out the IAIS web site.

Over the weekend I'll be posting stories and videos from yesterday's shoot on my 2010 range page (I know it's 2011), and on my various .44 Magnum and .357 Magnum pages. Check them out for videos of us shooting the flintlock, and to see the results of my ammo tests.

Daniel "Red Bear" Bosques Designs

1. (Above) This is of a heavy buffalo skin shirt, with a bear's upper half (up to the brow) as the shirt's cape. The bears brow folds back and down to act as a collar, and flips up for warmth. The fringe is made of brain-tanned deer. Plains Indian Warshirt style/influence. $1300.00

2. This pic is of a new knife sheath I just finished. It is made from brain-tanned skin, and is decorated with porcupine quillwork, beads, deer hair, and human hair.

3. This is of a bag I recently finished that is at the IAIS. I made it in honor of my cousin who passed 3 yrs ago. Its made of brain-tanned buffalo, lined with his shirt, made with pieces of his belt, and moccasins. The knife sheath I just finished is its counterpart, and the bag is also quilled.

4. The first possibles bag (yellow with cross) is made from bear skin. I kept a natural-edged them throughout the bag, including the inside pocket and cross overlay. Not visible in this picture are the strap I recently beaded, a vent-hole pick, and a 60 grain powder measure. $450.00

5. The second bag I named "Harvest Hunter". This hunting bag has a moon overlay ON the moon inlay, and a dark moon overlay on the inside pocket. This bag is made from buffalo skin, also has the powder measure and pick, and has a whisk for cleaning out a flintlock's priming pan. $450.00

A quick tour of Blue Trail Range, Wallingford, CT

2010-12-30T20:04:00.000-05:00

Rob Becher and Cody duck hunting the CT coast

2010-12-08T19:27:00.001-05:00

Nice talking w/you today!

Attached is a shot of Cody taken last Saturday while duck hunting the CT coast. A friend and I each harvested a Black duck and Cody did two spectacular retrieves in the extremely thick Cain. We will be back in the mix again this weekend as New England temperatures have plummeted forcing many birds to rivers and coastal waters. This is the weather that waterfowlers have been waiting for all season long. Talk to you soon.

-Rob & Cody-

Arne bags his first buck!

2010-12-03T23:50:00.003-05:00

"I harvested this deer I got on private land in Harwinton. It dressed out at 185 lbs. They say he is at least 10 yrs old. One ole fart walked out in front of another ole fart....lol My first buck ever......see ya. Arne"

Congratulations Arne. It's a beauty! Looking forward to coyote hunting with you in January.

Jim Drescher reports to us from the field

2010-12-02T10:36:00.003-05:00

"...we went out yesterday. GORGEOUS day. Heard lots of shooting. One buddy, Erle, shot a little doe about 8:30. She took off. Picked up the blood track and followed her for about 10 mins. THERE SHE GOES! Was hit but gutshot. Too thick for a decent shot so decided to wait and see if she'd lay down. One nephew was close so told Erle to stand there and I'd find Rick. About 20 mins went by and we started off again. Was a trail Stevie Wonder could follow! Tracked her for about 35 yrds thru some of the thickest **** you can find. All attention was on the trail, and we got to within about SEVEN FEET of her before she took off again. Again, no shot. Waited for a bit again. Erle went back to his stand. He can't move like he used to. Me and Rick called another guy, Willie, that was in front of us, told him to watch. He said you guys watch, there's a coyote heading to you! Followed little blood spots across a big field, didn't see the coyote, but did see Willie coming toward us. Track, track, track. Went thru the woods a bit. Now, mind you, we've followed this poor little deer about 400 yrds now. Concentrating on the blood, saw some on the tree up ahead. Willie said there she is, laying right there. Three feet from the blood on the tree! Didn't even see her till he said! How well they blend in. One of those shots you just can't miss. Gonna shoot her so she didn't go any farther. Shot right over her! Damn!!! Shook my head, took very careful aim and put it thru her shoulders. She jumped up and flopped on the ice. Willie was starting to go right up to her. Told him, wait, let her expire. She laid still, he approached, and she raised her head! Damn!!!! 50 cal muzzleloader from 18 inches took her out... Called Erle, no answer. Called again, no answer. This guy has a heart condition and he was tuckered from the little tracking he and I did. Now, I'm nervous. Ben called, nephew called. FINALLY he called back. Said, Goddamn, was about to shoot another one and the phone is ringing. Hit that one but didn't find it. Sheesh. He shows up with the 4 wheeler and with me dragging this little thing, I wasn't even out of breath. Maybe a whole 60 lbs or so! 6 month old, good eater... Driving deer tomorrow. New spot. No idea what will happen. More stories to follow, am sure." James W. Drescher

A tour of Roraback WMA

2010-11-27T13:17:00.006-05:00

Click the YouTube logo to see in HiDef on YouTube.

Hey Bob--

I operate a charter fishing boat and have been busy as hell striper fishing clients all week. Yeah I'm familiar with the coyotes on Roraback, I shot 2 this year on and around the border on the North Road side but they wised up on me. I used to call them and hunt but it is very hard in CT, now I hunt them much more successfully over bait. I shot 2 of the 6 different dogs I saw there this year and also got made a couple times, thereby ending my success. I guess they have to eat too, ya know? I personally think the human hunting has had an effect on the squirrel population more-so than natural predation. I have seen a lot of guys there squirrel hunting with shotguns more than .22's so you know they are blasting away. Couple that with the other predators and weak acorn years and there you have it, squirrel population decimation. By the way, awesome site, I love it...very cool. I checked out the whole thing and its very impressive. I attached a couple pics of the coyotes I bagged this year on the Roraback border and if you ever want to check out my new website, its www.outkastsportfishing.com. See you out there!!.........Kevin

For a followup I asked Kevin what he bagged them with and he responded:

".270 private land directly bordering Roraback. They came from the state land...always do."

On state land in CT we are limited to 22LR, but Kevin's fine using a .270 on private land. I once hunted a private farm bordering Roraback with my SKS. I still think the DEP should allow hunters to used 22 Magnums on state land. ~Bob

UPDATE: Arne Thompson added this. Thanks Arne:

"On private land you can use anything for varmints, but deer must be at least 6mm.........I've used my 30/30 for coyotes on private....state land is limited to 22LR for any small game.........shotgun you can use anything small than #2 nothing bigger than #2 shot......no double oo buck...."

My dad

2010-11-25T21:29:00.002-05:00

I know it's not hunting, but it's the next best thing; fishing! My dad lived to fish. When he wasn't working or fishing for large mouth bass on a lake, he was standing in a fast moving river fishing for rainbow trout. I never remember my father coming home without filling the sink with bass, bullheads, or rainbow trout. I spent many a weekend sitting for 8 hours straight in the blazing sun fishing from a small boat in a CT lake. My dad always had a pith helmet in the boat, and when it would get too hot, I'd fill it with water and dump it over my head.

Dad used to rent a small rowboat and he'd attach the gas motor that he owned. We'd always spend a part of the day trolling the lake, and he'd let me man the controls. I'd usually have a couple drop lines over the side along with my rod and reel, and nothing was more fun than when we'd run into a school of pickerel. I'd be sinking the hook and pulling them in as fast as I could and it would seem like it would never end. I also pulled in some monster bullheads from that lake. Once I remember thinking I had hooked a boot, which ended up pulling in the biggest bullhead I had ever seen. My dad's favorite was Large Mouth Bass, and he never came home empty handed. At home he'd cut off the heads of the largest and let them dry on the clothesline (my mom must have been a saint). Once dry and picked clean by the flies, he'd varnish them and proudly display them over his workbench. He would have never considered spending our much needed money to properly mount a fish. I still remember cleaning the bullheads and watching their severed heads in the sink gasp for air. I'm glad squirrels don't do that.

When dad wasn't bass fishing, he was standing in a river fishing for rainbow trout with either fly or worm. Dad passed away over 30 years ago, but he left me with some great memories that I'll never forget.

From the Archive: Hunting with Jamie - spotted a coyote

2010-11-25T18:23:00.000-05:00

Finally a break

2010-11-20T13:00:00.002-05:00

This message was sent using the Picture and Video Messaging service from Verizon Wireless!

After working 12 long, high pressure days, it was good to once again rest under a tree in freshly fallen leaves, waiting for the appearance of a gray furry friend. I really needed some rest today, so there was no way I was going to be up at sunrise to meet the squirrels while they feed. Instead, I didn't get into the woods until noon. Everything was against me. It was cloudy, windy and the time was wrong. As expected, nothing moved, but it was good to just 'be there' today. The season is young and I'll be back.

Alex receives a .22 for his 12th birthday!

2010-11-12T22:20:00.002-05:00

(Left to right) Alex, Ann Marie, and Peter

Happy Birthday Alex! Earlier this year my wife and I flew to Washington state for 10 days to visit my sister and her family. While there we spent quite a bit of time with my nephew Peter and his family which includes his 6 children. We spent one day in Idaho at his friend's back yard range, and Peter's son Alex (on the left) showed himself to be a real shooting and archery enthusiast! For his birthday this year, Alex received a .22 caliber rifle, and my sister just emailed me these photos of Peter, Alex, and his sister Ann Marie at the range. It looks like Peter also brought his .308. I'm so happy that our hunting and shooting heritage is being passed onto the next generation, and I look forward to the next time we can spend time together shooting and making memories. Next Alex needs to take his hunter's safety class so he can begin squirrel hunting. I looking forward to posting photos of your upcoming hunts Alex. Go get'm!

Checkering by Jim Drescher

2010-10-28T22:19:00.003-04:00

Jim Drescher is an old Navy buddy who served on Adak Island around the time I was on the rock. Jim is an avid hunter, and he's gotten into checkering stocks. Here's some photos he's just sent me. I'm really impressed Jim!

I have no idea how this process is done, so I asked Jim to write something up for me to describe how he does it...

"I stare at the piece until it tells me what to put on it. It is all done by hand and eye. I guess that's where the artistry comes in, if you can call it that. Not real fast at it yet but I'm getting better. Believe it or not, the toughest thing for me now is finding a blank one to work on! I'm going to do my muzzleloader, a TC Hawkens, but I'm not ready to mar the finish just yet. I have to get some more 'scratchin tools' here soon though. That last stock really took the edge of 'em. Good thing they're not too expensive. I use DemBart tools. They seem to do that job well enough. The last stock on that shotgun was like a piece of broomstick. Not sure what kind of wood it was but you need really sharp new tools, I know that. I did the stock on a muzzleloader; a CVA Apollo, made in 97. I got it at a good price and the barrel was very clean. The gun had been used and abused some... "

Rob Becher on opening day

2010-10-21T19:39:00.000-04:00

Rob bagged 4 on opening day with his dog Cody

Our next gun dog demonstration will be at Colchester Fish & Game Club on November 14th at 12 Noon. As you know this should be a great event as they are hosting a scheduled ECSC Skeet Shooting match that will make for lots of attendees.

Hunting Adak

2010-09-25T18:03:00.006-04:00

I thought you guys might enjoy this. I lived on this island located in the Bering Sea halfway between Russia and Alaska for 12 months. I was stationed there in the Navy Seabees where I worked as a telephone lineman. The HD footage these guys shot is spectacular. I contacted Alaska Outdoor Television and when I told them I was an Adak vet, they were nice enough to let me download the entire show. Sorry to say I can only show you this teaser, but you can watch this program on cable.

That's me on Adak

Having a Blast In Idaho

2010-09-06T22:14:00.008-04:00

My brother-in-law Eddie and I at Cabela's in Idaho

Back to front: Eddie, Peter and Alexander

Eddie sighting in his 22. Both Eddie and Peter are new to the shooting sports.

It's been a long time since I've been on a real vacation, so for our 25th wedding anniversary my wife and I flew to Idaho to spend 10 days with my sister and her family. As you might expect, I shot a lot of video clips and when we returned home, I created a 1.5 hour home movie for us to remember our time there. On the second day, my brother-in-law and nephew took me to a friend's house in the hills where we could shoot in his back yard. My nephew had a new .308 and my brother-in-law a new .22, which I helped them sight in. The boy is my nephew's son Alex, who is itching to start hunting. I wish I could take him squirrel hunting with me in CT. Since I can't, I promised him that I'd ship him the tails of my first 4 squirrels. This clip is an out-take from my larger home movie.

Alex told me that he would practice aiming with his right eye.

Dog vs Coyote

2010-09-06T14:19:00.000-04:00

Hi again Bob,

Check this bite out..

This spaniel was with Jen & I up in Maine last weekend for our (2) day presentations "Water-Dog Retreiving" at Cabela's in Scarborough, ME. Jen has trained this dog since it was a puppy, great dog! Two critters locked Jaws "To The Death Grip" when the owner hit the Coyote over the head with a log and killed it.

Robert G. Becher

Welcome!

2010-08-17T21:56:00.000-04:00

It was a day like any other. The jobs were stacked high, deadlines tight and the pressure was on. The day had passed quickly as do most. It would soon be time to leave, and soon the day would repeat itself. For a few moments I escaped from the office, thinking about the great times I had as a kid hunting with my brother. Beginning at age 12, we would hit the woods with our rifles and shotguns, enjoying the day hunting small game and pheasant. Memories took me back to an early winter squirrel hunt.

A light snow had fallen and we spotted a group of squirrels circling the top of a tree. Taking a seat, we lit up our smokes, scanned the branches and quietly waited. Within half an hour we left with 2 grays in the bag and a memory that would last the next thirty years. That day in work it dawned on me how much I missed that part of my life and I made the decision to take it back. That day launched this Journal, which has grown from a single blog to twenty-one, recording my small adventures in the woods, fun at the range, lessons learned reloading, and the good people I have met. Welcome to the BR Shooting Journal!

Sharpshooter Annie Oakley Rare Film

2010-08-15T22:23:00.003-04:00

Annie Oakley (August 13, 1860 - November 3, 1926), born Phoebe Ann Mosey, was an American sharpshooter and exhibition shooter. Oakley's amazing talent and timely rise to fame led to a starring role in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show, which propelled her to become the first American female superstar. Using a .22 caliber rifle at 90 feet Oakley reputedly could split a playing card edge-on and put five or six more holes in it before it touched the ground.

2010-07-06T16:47:00.001-04:00

"Firearms are second only to the Constitution in importance; they are the peoples' liberty's teeth." ~ George Washington

Wonderful!

2010-06-16T20:31:00.000-04:00

Bev and I quickly tour the Wallingford Rod & Gun Club

2010-05-30T20:53:00.001-04:00

It was a beautiful day and there wasn't much to do, so I decided to give my wife a tour of the Wallingford Rod & Gun Club. Bev hates guns and shooting, so she had to be really bored to actually go there with me. I think you'll find her as funny as I did. Watch it on YouTube to see it in HD.

Send me your hunting and range stories

2010-04-09T21:04:00.004-04:00

I for one have become sick and tired of reading about Obama and his administration's attacks on our second amendment rights. Of course we all need to stay on top of what's going on and remain active in the cause. If you need the latest gun related headlines, check out the NRA news gadget at the bottom of the right-hand column.

This page is now about us and our stories. Remember when hunting was more than 'gear and politics'? Send me an adventure or a hunting story about yourself. Send photos of the family in the field. Let's show the world what a great sport we're involved in. Let's hear from you. Email your stories and photos to: brshooting@sbcglobal.net. Thanks and looking forward to hearing from you! ~Bob

Jake bagged his first squirrels!

2009-09-19T20:45:00.001-04:00

"Mikey went out for the Youth Waterfowl Hunt and I took Jake out for a squirrel hunt. Mikey took three ducks and Jake took two squirrels! Great morning for the boys and me!" ~Mike Adams

Congratulations to Jake Adams, son of Mike Adams from Up North Journal for bagging his first two squirrels today. Great job Jake! Like father like son. The Adams are from Linden, MI. It's interesting to see the variation in tail color between Jake's squirrels and the gray and white squirrels we have in CT. Jake was hunting with a 22 magnum, which surprisingly is illegal in CT. Mike suggested making 'squirrel dumplings' but Jake said he was going to check my site to make squirrel stew. I'm checking with Mike for the dumpling recipe, and if he sends it I'll post it. Here's an out-take from Mike Adam's blog:

"...He drew down on it and popped off a shot, immediately the squirrel scurried behind the tree and started chattering at him. I told Jake to get ready and wait, he might come back out again. The problem was that Jake was free handing the shot. I told him to rest up against the nearby tree to steady his shot. The squirrel came down the tree and hit the ground eventually popping up on a little stick looking at us. Jake took careful aim and BANG! Down he went! Jake looked at me with a big grin and said, "I got him dad, I got him!" I noticed that the squirrel began to move and I was afraid he would run off so I put another round in him. Jake went over to pick him up and he began to move again, so Jake pulled up and touched the trigger one more time..." MORE on 'The Up North Journal Hunting Blog'

WARNING - Mountain lion sighting

2008-12-22T20:39:00.003-05:00

I usually take a walk around the industrial park where I work when I'm taking my morning break and lunch. Today I was stopped by a salesman who was driving by. He warned me that a couple of years ago he was standing at the doorway of a company a few building down the road from where I work when all of a sudden a huge mountain lion stepped out of the treeline and and into the middle of the road! The salesman said it scared the heck out of him, but he stood still and studied it closely. He said that others have told him that he might have seen a bobcat, but he has no doubt that it was a mountain lion. He described the long tail, the massive forearms and distinctive head. He said this thing was big! Just like something out of a wildlife TV show.

Two years ago I also spotted a mountain lion crossing the street at Roraback WMA at a distance of about 35 yards. I have no doubt about what I saw. Be warned friends that there are mountain lions roaming the woods in CT, no matter how many times the DEP may deny their existence. One of these days there will be a severe injury or death caused by a run-in with one of these predators, and I think the state will have a law suite on its hands. So will the Obama administration if they outlaw handgun ownership, which is really our only means of dealing with a run-in with one of these powerful cats. I've been warned and now so have you.effectivly

CHRISTMAS DAY UPDATE

Sent: Tuesday, December 16, 2008 9:53:36 AM
Subject: Re: Hidden Dangers at Roraback

I was just looking up up some information on Roraback and came across your post. I know exactly were you are talking about and it's funny you mention this mountain lion story. I along with 2 of my buddies were squirrel hunting the day after thanksgiving 11/28/08 right across the street from that parking spot you are talking about. We came across a few large piles of skat and some paw prints. i had told my buddy to come check it out & we seemed to both agree that they did not look like bear tracks rather large cat tracks . My friend had said it could be a mountain lion & there had been some sightings threw out the state. I more or less ignored the whole thing until I came across you sight . I figured I would just drop you a line about my findings .

Graham D.

An email from Dirk received 12/26/08
Subject: Paw Print

"Hey Bob I was looking at your blog today when I saw he pictures of the paw prints. This fall I was at the club in Woodstock with Lucy. We went down to change our targets when she spotted some tracks same as the ones on your blog. The one we saw was about 4 inches long. At first glance i thought it was a big dog and she said NO WAY. Then as i looked closer she was right I thought to my self that is a big cat. Then Lucy says, I think we should bring a gun with us when we go downrange from now on. Now we do!" ~Dirk

Small game are spooked around here, but not in Michigan!

2008-11-08T20:41:00.002-05:00

"What a day I had today, I missed the buck of a lifetime tonight. I took a shot right at dark and I shouldn't have, but it was one of those things that at the time seemed good. I saw 5 bucks this morning along with a skunk and bobcat! I heard a pack of coyotes at day break and they were pretty close by! My hair on the back of my neck stood on end!! I also heard a flock of turkeys coming off roost this morning. Then this evening I saw 24 deer and 6 of them were bucks!!! I watched three little bucks sparing one another. It was hilarious to watch them try to fight. Right at dark I started to come down out of the tower blind and I saw more deer coming towards me. I knew I couldn't get down and spook them, so I waited it out. Then I saw three more coming and I heard the big boy grunting! I knew it was the big one, so I waited and watched. Here he came and then he started fighting with the other two. Then they started to come in together and I couldn't tell which one was which becasue there was no light. I grabbed my field glasses and found him. All I could see was antlers! I let him get to about 20 yards and then I pulled back I had a hard time seeing the pin sight and then I let it fly, I really shouldn't have. I just bareley clipped him enough to say I hit him. It was a stupid move on my part. Then I got down and found a porcupine climbing in one of our old deer blinds through a broken window. So mr. porcupine and I had a knock down drag out fight in the blind. I won! He left with his quills between his legs! It was a beautiful day, warm, sunny, and you could smell the autumn in the air. What a day to clear my head! Life is good again, at least for a day! I'm back at it again tomorrow.

Oh yeah I forgot the story about this morning. My dad took a shot at a 8 point buck last night right at dark and couldn't find anything when he came down, including his arrow. So when I got out this morning in the same blind, I was watching the field right at day break and noticed something white flickering in the field. I grabbe the field glasses and saw a skunk! Right behind the skunk was my dad's dead deer!!! I couldn't believe it. A little later I was watching two little bucks sparing with one another, and then I looked back to the dead deer and noticed that there was something by it. I thought it was a coyote, and I looked through the field glasses again and saw that it was a bobcat trying to munch on the deer. I climbed out on the platform through the back window and the cat saw me and ran away. I took some photos of it and my dad. I will forward you one as soon as I get them uploaded. Take Care and good luck when you get back out." ~Mike Adams

Thoughts on hunting

2008-09-23T22:28:00.037-04:00

Most people never stop to realize that animals in the wild rarely die a natural death. Earlier this year I witnessed a squirrel being ripped from a tree by a pair of stalking hawks. If this was put in human context, it would have been a death of the most violent and unthinkable kind. But in nature this is 'natur'-al.

The color and type of fir that I see in coyote scat tell me that they are getting their share of squirrels. Humans are predators as well, assigned daily and seasonal bag limits to keep the game population in check and to be sure that sufficient numbers survive to repopulate an area by next hunting season. In areas where hunting is unreasonably restricted, it is common for animal populations to get out of control; the coyote being a good example. Few people hunt these predators and hunting is limited to contained areas. Coyotes are intelligent enough to have migrated where they can be on top of the food chain; your back yard. These animals and others have lost the fear of man. Instead of chasing field mice, they are snatching the neighborhood cats and on occasion human children. Hunters do the community a public service by keeping these populations under control while being under the management of the state's Department of Environmental Protection. State supervised Wildlife Management Areas remain wild due to the fees paid to the state by hunters through their purchase licenses, guns and ammo. Chances are good that if not for hunters, these areas would quickly become developed and much of the diversity of wildlife would disappear.

Like it or not the fact is that like most animals low on the food chain such as squirrels are destined to die a violent death. It amazes me that so many people have the impression that without hunters the woods would return to Eden. Fir-filled coyote scat tells us differently, and a quick death by a hunter's bullet is merciful compared to being eaten alive by a predator. Hunting is a humane and important means of harvesting this game. It puts meat in the freezer and I for one prefer to see humans fed by these animals rather than seeing an exploding, overfed coyote and mountain lion population. It also generates tax dollars paid by those involved in the sport which supports wildlife and Wildlife Management Areas.

HUNTING BONDS FAMILIES TOGETHER AND CREATES WONDERFUL MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIME. (LEFT) MIKE ADAMS AND HIS TWO SONS JAKE AND MIKEY. I'M GUESSING MIKE'S DAUGHTER MACKENZIE TOOK THE PHOTO. SHE LOVES HUNTING AS MUCH AS THE GUYS AND THIS YEAR BAGGED HER FIRST DEER.

MIKE IS A TELEVISION CAMERAMAN, AND THE TWO MIKES HOST 'THE UP NORTH JOURNAL' PODCAST.

Hunting is an extremely safe sport and is healthy to the mind and spirit. There are few people who take the opportunity to commune with nature and God the way hunters do. Hunters don't simply pass through an area as one does while hiking down a path or while blowing through a trail on an ATV. I'm sometimes amazed that I seem to know every odd branch, stick and flower that at a distance could be mistaken for wildlife. Hunters carefully study the landscape; constantly looking, listening, smelling. The tiniest crack of a twig or the movement of a leaf is often enough to put ones senses on high alert.

KEVIN HUTCHINGS AND HIS DAUGHTER ON OPENING DAY OF DEER SEASON.

Most hunters love and respect the wilderness and the game they hunt in a way that few others can. It is not just what we do, it is who we are and what we believe. It ties us to our nation's past. In a small way we become one with those who pioneered this land and hunted for food with their firearms. When we hunt and shoot we are honing our skills as members of the militia, which is our 2nd amendment right and duty. We become sharpshooters, trackers, survivalists, develop self-reliance and commune with our Maker. As the Bible teaches, the attributes of our God can be clearly seen in the natural world, and I relate that to the way that the mind of VanGogh can be seen in his creations, his paintings. And these things we long to pass on to our children.

We should be proud to be hunters, and never allow ourselves to be shamed by those who do not understand. We are partners with the natural world, the original and true environmentalists. Most companies these days have been pressured by the left to "be green". The truth is that if anyone really want to see green, they just need to look at us! ~Bob

ME AFTER MY FIRST SQUIRREL HUNT - 1970...

...AND TODAY.

A FINAL THOUGHT...
I can still clearly remember being 16 (the year before I entered the Navy), sitting under a tree with my brother who just returned from a year in Nam, smoking a cigarette with a light snow on the ground waiting for a squirrel to come out. We didn’t often sit down and talk, so these times were important, and they return to me often when I’m in the field. I hope I can deeply burn a similar memory into the mind of my son. That’s another important reason why we hunt. It bonds us together as friends and as a family. Happy Hunting my friends.

A Comment from Roger:

"Well, I couldn't add a word to your feelings of the hunter, wildlife, woodlands and the natur-al world that I too understand. If we look back to even twenty five years ago and then today, I think the data gathered on healthy population control from the smallest of small game to the largest animal hunted under a licensed system proves we are getting better at management. I think modern wildlife surveys and biological proof sends the educated message to even the biggest anit-hunters should they take time and read and research. I find it interesting to have conversations with those who are so sure I will burn in the fire of hell for harming God's creation. I enjoy speaking in calm tones and explaining they can find both Bible related information and modern data as recent as today to prove why Bob and the rest of us hunters are right. We have no reason to decline our rock solid foundation of our educated way of life. Thanks Bob for reminding us about those moments we share with friends and family. I have a ten minute conversation emblazed in my memory of a high school buddy of mine and I going on our first Ring Neck Pheasant hunt back in 1984. Us young guys were in a forty acre corn field his father owned and farmed. We spoke of our life after high school and wondered if we would ever have such another wonderful day of hunting and seeing not one Pheasant yet enjoying nature and friendship. I won't forget such a simple yet great memory of so many years ago.... I wish you all the best of what this season is. I pray for 2009 to bring us good health and peace .......... Merry Christmas and Seasons Greeting...."

Girl's Day Out

2008-05-17T20:56:00.002-04:00

Bob:
Here are a couple of pictures of the wife and daughter at their 'girls day out', this was the camo and lace event for women only, the two pictures are of them at the pistol range learning basic hand gun shooting techniques. They were shooting a .22 semi auto and my daughter Mackenzie actually shot a 9mm, but she thought that it was a bit much for her. Shannon my wife now wants a .22 pistol for herself and one for my daughter also! Yikes, I've created a monster! The man and woman team that was teaching the pistol shooting class were strong NRA supporting members and also teach a gun self defense class. The man was doing the training for my daughter, when he watched her pick up the pistol and ready herself to shoot, he was amazed at how she handled herself. He looked at my wife and said damn she's good! I guess she does listen to me after all!!! It was nice to see both of my ladies have fun together and spend a day at the range.

One of the other classes they took was custom game calls. There was a gentleman there from Double Coyotee Predator Calls. He makes all kinds of custom calls and my daughter won a custom made rabbit distress call worth about $50, it is the one in photo #278. She was the only one who could imitate him using the call, so she won it! Takes after her dad! Any ways, he brought a call that he had just made for 'Kid Rock' the singer, and he let Mackenzie use it and try it out, it was a coyote howler acrylic call! It was signed by the maker to Kid Rock. He was also making one for Hank Williams Jr. Now for the kicker, he shot a coyote this morning in his yard and brought it to the class and of course Mackenzie had to have her picture made with it, notice the smile on the coyote. Sounds like a good time, I wish I was there instead of turkey hunting, not seeing anything. ~Mike Adams

Little Mike goes squirrel hunting

2007-12-22T20:28:00.002-05:00

Hey Bob,

We went out squirrel hunting this morning and took along our good friend Chuck Willis that we have talking about on the show for a while. We planed this last night at the last second at my GrandPa's Christmas Party. When we got home we sorted everything out and TRIED to pick what guns we were going to talk with us (I chose fast. My dad took quite a while). I told my dad "I think I'm going to pull a Bob and use my .22" but I only had one to pick from; my mag. My dad ended up taking my 20 gauge youth model. I asked him "That's a bit to small for you isn't it?" He said "No such thing as too small". We got to the woods around 10am and snuck in and loaded up. I had brought my barker (call) and went to town with it, then sat in a spot for a half hour.

"I think I'm going to pull a Bob and use my .22"

Then we started walking around and herd one in a tree and stalked it using hand motions to talk. Come to find out it was a bird mocking us, I told my dad I feel like I'm in the army using hand motions to talk, walking around in the woods with guns (lol). We also checked out our tree stands, and under my dad's was the remains of a dead tree rat that an hawk had gotten a hold of. We never saw a thing that morning, but on the way out we found a pair of Coyote Tracks leading in to my dads friends area (he had seen coyotes in their before). I found myself a Coyote Area! Also I had to pick up some shells for my rifle at the discount outdoor store. For a box of Winchester .22 Mag Full Metal Jacket now sells for $10. The last time I bought some (this summer) the price was $7 for a box of 50. Well, now have some Christmas money and I'm going to get that Ruger 10/22 as soon as my dad and I cash the check. I'm also getting a Banner Dawn to Dusk Scope for my .22 Mag. No pictures from the hunt. We could not find our camera (uh oh). Have a Good and Merry Christmas Bob! ~Little Mike Adams

Mountain Lion sighting at Roraback WMA

2007-09-10T15:30:00.003-04:00

Today I went squirrel hunting after work, hitting the road to Roraback WMA at 4:45pm. By 5:00 I was hunting. Having parked in the lot which is south of the DEP building, I hunted a big circle, and at 6:00 returned to my Jeep. I opened the tailgate and sat in it, changing from my heavy boots to my comfortable sneakers. The rifle was already returned to the case and ammo to the field box.

Suddenly I spotted movement in the bushes about 30 yards away on the cow pasture side of the road. A large clump of tall grass began moving, and I studied it, possibly expecting a coyote to come out. Slowly a huge charcoal gray cat began slinking out of the grass and into the road. “My god!” I said out loud. It was huge and looked like a dark gray ghost. The cat looked like it was almost dragging its belly on the ground.The head was small with huge, powerful legs which moved it across the road in my direction in total silence. My eyes were riveted to until it reached the brush just to the right of me, about 25 yards away. I became very concerned when I lost sight of it, and quickly unzipped my rifle from the case. It wasn’t loaded but I figured it might scare it or I could swing it at the cat if it approached. I jumped out of the tailgate and I couldn't get into the driver's door fast enough. That was the last I saw of it.

I contacted a hunting buddy and he's quite sure it was a mountain lion tracking a deer. The area is loaded this them, because I've stumbled over deer many times in the high grass while hunting coyote in the area. He believe the cat was so focused on the scent that it didn't even see me. I think he's right. As soon as I reached home, I called the DEP and of course they questioned what I saw, since according to them, there are no mountain lions in CT. They said it was a Bobcat. I've seen bobcats, and this lion's rear haunches were bigger than that.

Since the time of this sighting, I've spoken to numerous people who've also seen mountain lions in the state, and a farmer in this area told me that one of his horses was ripped apart by a mountain lion. All I know is that since this sighting, I'm a bit uneasy when hunting this area alone, especially when only packing a 22LR. I've also stopped using distressed animal calls in the area.

'The Big One' by Jim D.

2007-08-22T20:52:00.001-04:00

OK, it's not a rimfire story, but Jim served on the Naval Station Adak, AK in the Bering Sea with me. He's the guy who took over my job when I served my year and left the island. Jim and I have never met, but we discovered each other through the Internet and communicate via email. It's my pleasure to post Jim's story on this blog. Thanks Jim! ~Bob

It was the second day of Ohio's gun season. Beautiful day to sit in the ladder stand with nothing to watch but the squirrels in that oak about 50 yrds from me. The day started nice and quiet, no wind, just the right amount of 'chilly' in the air. Blue skies, man, it was perfect. My wonderful wife had just bought me a little 20 ga, Remington 870 the weekend before. Plan was to retire the Model 12 as the good ol' gun had seen me thru many'a hunts and kills.

So with my brand new gun (that I hadn't even shot yet, stupid me), I was all snuggled and comfy and really enjoying the day. The property I was fortunate enough to hunt on belongs to my friend I grew up wandering the woods and creeks with, Bob Holt. His wife, Cheryl, was in her stand about 80 yrds east of me. Open field in front of me, surrounded by maples, we were right in a deer travel corridor. One of those spots they just cross from one section to another. Knew it was a good spot. All the stands had numbers, this one was called 2 North. Cheryl was in Half! (Such names)

You know how you just kinda go into a trance when you sit like that? You become part of the woods and every sound, sight, and smell, you take in and more or less sense what is going on around you. This morning, tho, I was just sitting there, not doing my part of 'becoming', when BAM, BAM, BAM!!! Cheryl shoots three times, real fast. Scared the heck outta me. Heard the crunch, crunch, crunch of a deer running thru the woods, so I knew she didn't hurt it too bad. Thought I better get ready, just in case. Here comes this HUGE buck running right at me. He was running from Cheryl and had no idea I was even there. All I saw was this rack rocking up and down as he came loping towards me. Not running real fast but was covering territory. Stood up, got ready, and fired once, twice, three times. Dang deer didn't even fall down. He was RIGHT THERE, too!! Saw him run about 50 yrds and stop and just look around, like what the heck was that??!! Could see his rack very clear. Then he was gone.

In Ohio, you can only put three shells in your gun at one time. I never even thought or had time to reload. When he ran away, I just started laughing cause I just missed the biggest buck I had ever seen. What a moron, I was. You can bet the next day I was at the shooting range, to see where this gun was shooting. After two shots, I could tell it was shooting way low. Move the sight, fire, came up. Move it again, came up better. At about 60 yrds, I started putting 'em right in the bull. Was happy with that. Anything within that range, was confident I could hit it.

"All I saw was this rack rocking up and down as he came loping towards me. Not running real fast but was covering territory. Stood up, got ready, and fired once, twice, three times. Dang deer didn't even fall down. He was RIGHT THERE, too!! Saw him run about 50 yrds and stop and just look around, like what the heck was that??!!"

Saturday came, the next day to hunt. The usual gang was there with the inclusion of a new guy at the time, Steven. He was brand new to hunting, 18 yrs old, and seemed like a good person. Liked him right off. But with our gang, you are always on 'probation'. Safety is the name of the game. We put him where he probably couldn't hit any of us anyway! We were strung out along lines about a mile deep. Bob's property goes back almost a mile so there was plenty of room between us. I was back in 2 North and it was about 8 am. Heard a shot west of me. Then heard Steven shoot three times. Knew something was coming. This time I was paying attention! Got the gun up, safety off, held it at 'ready arms', and waited. Sure enough, down along the tree line, I see a deer. Big one. Same one from the last Tuesday, I couldn't believe it. He got to the edge of the field that I could see and wasn't running, but just getting the heck outta the way of them dang guns. (He didn't know they were guns, just some noise going on) Put the gun up, was surprisingly calm, and waited for the shot. He got to a small opening, had the sights on him and fired. Saw him hunch and knew I connected. He kinda angled into the woods towards me and I lost sight of him behind some big oaks. Then I saw the wobble of his butt, knowing he was going down. Heard him crash and didn't even put another shell into the chamber. He was down.

I just sat there, considering what I had just done. On the one hand, I knew I had just killed the biggest buck of my life. On the other hand, I had just killed the biggest buck I had ever seen running free in the woods. I know it was what I was there to do but...........

Immediately called my wife. Told her I just got a MONSTER 8 pt. She congratulated me. Then I called Bob. Told him he should come over and check out this buck. Oh, yeah, and bring the 4 wheeler! Didn't tell him how big it was. Then I got down out of my tree stand and walked over to where he was. All I could see was half a rack. OH NO, he broke his rack off falling. Nah, he had it stuck in the mud, was all. I carefully lifted his head and held his rack in my hands, knowing I was the first human to touch this deer. What an honor.

I stood and just looked at this deer. What a beaut. Wall hanger, for sure. Steven came up after a bit. He was closest to me and wanted to see this deer. Then Bob came over. Now, Bob has killed probably about 50 deer in his time, including a 16 pt that made the cover of North American Whitetail so he knows a good one when he sees it. About all he could say was "Oh my"! Was glad he had the 4 wheeler cause after getting this one to the barn and putting him on the scale, he still weighed 185 lbs, dressed. Actually, I didn't care if I shot another deer that season or not. Not after this one.

The buck scored 136 and 3/8. Sad to say, in Ohio, to get into the Big Buck Club, you have to have at least a 140 or better, typical, to get in. This deer was mounted by Hovance's Taxidermy in Warren, Ohio and know hangs on the wall in a place of honor. We ask the weiner dog 'Where's the deer?" and she looks up at him every time. Then looks at us, like dang deer ain't moved in 3 yrs, what the heck you asking me for all the time??? (She's a smart little dog!) Her name is Twinkie, too, btw.

So, that's the story of how I got the 'big one'. Hope you liked it. (I get long in the tooth, I know, but was a long story. They always are!)

Might even send some more stories, I think!!

6/18/07
To me, hunting is not something that you do, it's more like something that you are. You can learn it, for sure, but there are those of us that seem to be born to it. We don't seem to get to hunt nearly as much as we wish but enough to satisfy the inner 'beast', if you will!

This little story happened long ago, when I was probably 14 or so. My Dad taught me how to fish and hunt. Was more like he took me along and I learned from watching what he was doing, more or less. And I will always thank his spirit for that.

We were rabbit hunting this little patch*, no bigger than about 100 yds square. Back in the day, we hunted rabbits and squirrel all the time. Deer weren't nearly as plentiful as they are today, and turkey were unheard of. Lots of cover for bunnies tho and we had access to most of the land around here. As usual, we were kicking the brush, looking for tracks and sign, knowing there were rabbits in here. I jumped one pretty quick and shot. Saw him running from around a tree and thought I missed so I shot again. Dad asked if I got him and said yep, sure did. He said good, I got this one too. Never heard him shoot tho. I thought maybe it was the same time. That happens at times. I told him I didn't hear him shoot and he said he didn't, I got both of them!

These are the stories that we can tell our children. And why it's so important to protect our privilege of hunting, fishing, and just being outdoors. You can't do this sitting in front of a TV or computer.

*Was right up the road here. Corner of Barclay-Messerly and Eagle Creek. Don't know who owned the land that long ago, we used to hunt lots of land and no one messed with us. Dad might have known, not sure. There are houses built there now tho, sad to say, as most places we used to hunt. This land is located in Leavittsburg, Ohio, of course. We used to literally walk across the road, loose the dog and start the hunt.

6/25/07
Great fun calling, have called fox for years now. Not that many coyotes here yet but getting more and more every day. Have seen lots of tracks but have only eyeballed one during a deer hunt and not sure that was one. Was long way away. Sure looked like one though.

Personally, I carried one of them heavy battery operated calls. Put it in a 5 gal plastic pail. Is a Burnham Brothers that we bought about 20 yrs ago, I guess. A cassette player, has called many fox, coon, deer, rabbits, you name it. THEN I got smart and bought a little Dennis Kirk predator call that fit in my pocket. Lots lighter to carry. Dang if I didn't wash the thing in my cammies once and never did get all the pieces back. Got a Lohman Circe call now that does real well. Can make all kinds of scary sounds on it. Anything from a pup distress to a squealing rabbit, which works the best around here. Had a coon pup tape that I used in the caller and one of the first nights out with it, had two come right in. They looked like little bears coming for a fight in the light of our lenses. One veered off to the right towards my buddy. I had one come straight in and had the speaker placed in front of me about 25 ft or so. The plan was for the coon to stop at the speaker and see what was hurting the baby. Did that work?? Heck no! Dang thing kept on coming right toward me, probably figured I was the one that was doing the hurting!! Had to stop him from about 3 ft with my 12 ga. I was getting nervous bout then. Problem is, 6 shot at that range doesn't do a hide much good. More like a massive hole in the poor things body.

Caught in a hail storm

2007-05-31T15:25:00.003-04:00

Today was the last day of my sister's week-long visit with us, so at noon I took her to the airport, got her on a plane, and later headed out to get a couple hours of hunting in before dusk. It turned humid and the temperature was in the low 70's, which was a switch from the upper 80's with zero humidity that we've had all week (My vacation week!). Arriving at my spot, I put on my gear and walked the path into the forest. Two guys were fishing at the beginning of the trail, but other than that, I was alone.

I walked for about an hour and since it was already 6 pm, I thought I'd better start heading back. I took a short break, did a bit of plinking with my Henry 17 HMR and started the return trip down the hill. Less than half way down I began hearing distant thunder and it was getting dark fast. I stepped up the pace and before I knew it, it was so dark that I was starting to have difficulty seeing. The light rain that had started minutes ago was turning into a downpour. Cracks of lightening were exploding directly overhead and it was really getting creepy. The water level on the path was now about an inch deep and I was soaked to the skin. I suddenly appeared to be surrounded by small white stones. The rain had turned to hail and it was hopping on he ground all around me, quickly getting bigger and really starting to sting.

What immediately came to mind was a trip my wife, sister, brother-in-law and I took years ago to SkyLine Drive in Virginia. The week was a scorcher and it had been around 100 degrees. On our last day, the sky turned very dark and the temperature dropped 40 degrees in a minute. Hail the size of ice-cubes began raining down. My brother-in-law was caught outside the cabin, and we saw him standing on a picnic table under the open umbrella, covering his face so as not to be hit by hundreds of air-born ice-cubes that were bouncing up from the ground.

What if something similar happens today? There was no place to hide, so I picked up the pace, hoping that I could make it to my vehicle before things got really bad. It was a relief when the hail changed back to a torrential downpour. When I reached the tree line at the start of the path, there was a huge crack of lightening directly overhead. I now had to run about 50 yards through a clearing to make it to my Jeep, turning myself into a lightening rod. I figured that in about 10 seconds there would be another strike, so I ran as fast as I could, opened the door and dove in. I attempted to take a few photos for you but my camera had gotten wet and it's now history. Oh well; no coyotes, but one hell of a memory. I'll try to do it again tomorrow.

Rob sent me this today in response to my story...

Bob,

Sounds like a story out of "Out Door Life" This Happend To Me...
You could have spiced it up with something like:

"The hungry coyote that I was hunting was actually tracked me knowing I was lost in the storm..."

I love it! I'll need to do a re-write. Thanks Rob!