HUNTING
I glassed up a lone deer high in a basin under some cliffs. I got really excited as we pulled out the Vortex spotter for a better look. Hunter said “He looks like a shooter Paul.” I got on the spotter and completely agreed, he looked like a solid four point with awesome mass! At over 1800 yards away, we needed to hurry to close the
distance for a potential shot. Our plan was that Garrett would hang back and keep eyes on the buck as Hunter and I took off down the ridge in hopes of catching him before he fed out of sight. Hunter asked how close I needed to be for a shot and I replied “Get me within 1,000 yards and I will kill that buck today.” We both chuckled and took off down the mountain. We made it to a spot about 800 yards from the buck and set up for a shot. The old muley fed across a clearing and bedded in a small opening within a group of pines. My heart began to race as I got into position and laid my pack on the ground. I was just getting ready to send it when I was blindsided by buck fever! I stood up and took a deep breath as Hunter reassured me and said “You got this man, just take your time, it’s all you Pauly.” I got back behind the rifle and it felt just right. I took one last breath, and squeezed the trigger. I got back on the buck just as the 230 grain Berger hit home and watched him lay his head in the snow. We celebrated on the mountain and called Garrett who had watched the entire thing through the spotter. We all hiked over to my deer and thanked the Lord for providing such a beautiful experience for us that day. As I have gotten older, I have realized that it isn’t so much the animal you harvest, but the memories you make with others who share your same passions. This trip was filled with memories that can be talked about for many years to come, sparking the passions of the next generation who will eventually fill my shoes down the road. Just as my father had for me.
Take care of your knife and it will take care of you. Own your experience - Carry a sharp knife.
SHARP MATTERS. RESPECT YOUR KNIFE.
AVId Hunting & outdoors Winter 2017
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