Sportsman's News August 2014 Digital Edition

SportsmansNews.com

August 2014

Volume 10 Issue 8

Monster Pike on the Churchill River System

By Michael Deming

A

s the fresh caught walleye sizzled in the pan, I couldn’t help but reflect on our first morning fishing at Ruffo’s Sportsman’s Lodge. Our total of big northern pike for the morning included five fish over 40 inches and a total of 14 fish over 36”, making it one of the most impressive first days on the water I had ever seen while fishing for these aggressive fish. It’s hard to believe that we have five more full days of fishing of this caliber.

Usually Kent Danjanovich, our Senior Editor makes the trek north to Saskatchewan to do these types of fishing shows, but since this is a revisit to insure the outfitter was maintaining the quality we expect from our Platinum Approved continued on page 6

Jeff Holm with a 43 inch pike caught with Ruffo's Sportsman's Lodge

Salmon and rainbows on the Sac

Mike Bogue's Guide Service

PAGE 2

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

SPORTSMAN'S NEWS 2322 W. Industry Way Cedar City, UT 84721

ADVERTISING Mike Deming National Advertising Manager 435-669-4624 mdeming@sportsmansnews.com

SENIOR EDITOR Kent Danjanovich 801-231-9838 kdanjanovich@sportsmansnews.com SALES ASSOCIATE Collin Dalley 435-862-7441 cdalley@sportsmansnews.com MANAGING EDITOR Dan Kidder 435-865-1680 dkidder@sportsmansnews.com EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Lisa Deming info@sportsmansnews.com

Subscribers should contact Managing Editor for changes of address.

Sportsman's News is published monthly.

The entire content of this newspaper is Copyright 2013 © All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without written consent of the Managing Editor.

SPORTSMAN'S WAREHOUSE 7035 So. High Tech Drive Midvale, UT 84047

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

3

Mike Bogue’s Guide Service

By Collin Dalley

F

ishing is one of America’s favorite pastimes, largely due to the fact that it is so easily accessible with many ponds, lakes, rivers and streams within minutes or even a short day drive. Opportunities like these are very common in almost every state and there are usually a variety of fish species to choose from. With so many choices, what is it that makes certain places worthwhile? Well, for myself, it’s ease of access, time available, scenery or the promise of a relaxing environment. To have a bit of adventure or fun with family and friends is always a good reason to enjoy the outdoors and especially a great fishing spot.

When I looked into fishing the Sacramento River, I decided to call a few people that were familiar with the area to see what they thought. My inquiries resulted in three common opinions from everyone I consulted: Fish from a boat; call Mike Bogue’s Guide Service in Redding, California; and make sure you experience the hard fighting wild rainbow as well as the salmon fishing. Following that advice, I talked with Mike Bogue and was very impressed with his professionalism and knowledge.

I set up a trip for May 27th-28th, 2014 for my wife and I to go fishing for wild rainbows, since salmon season didn’t start for a couple months.

The salmon season is one of the longest on the west coast, running July 16th – December 15th, but that

The author displays a colorful Sacramento River rainbow caught with Mike Bogue's Guide Service in northern California. would have to be another trip. This trip was to be all about rainbows.

It’s important to have a good guide and the owner, Mike Bogue, grew up fishing many lakes and rivers in northern California, with a special affinity for the Sacramento River. Mike really knows how to navigate this river efficiently and knows what areas hold the most fish.

The Sacramento River has an abundant variety of wildlife along with picturesque scenery and clear water, full of wild rainbows and king salmon. The wild rainbows are extremely healthy and full of energy and will test your tackle with their aggressive behavior and endurance.

The king salmon have multiple runs each year providing excellent fishing to go along with the long season.

We drove to Redding, CA and the excitement increased with every mile passed. Upon arrival, my wife and I checked into our hotel and coordinated with Mike on the time he would pick us up in the morning.

I was impressed with the ease of access for this area, with Reno, Nevada just 2-hours east and the Sacramento Airport only a couple of hours south.

After a good night’s rest, we were anxious to begin our adventure.

Mike was right on time, waiting in front of the hotel, ready to go. The

morning sun revealed spectacular fishing conditions. Before I knew it we had arrived at the boat ramp in less than 15 minutes and yet we were in the country, surrounded by woodland scenery. We loaded what little gear we had to bring, but we didn’t have any worries about forgetting something because Mike had everything covered. He uses top of the line equipment, with a spacious 23ft boat that fits up to six guests and provides ample room for a good time. There is no need to be concerned about what gear to bring. All of your tackle and bait is provided at no additional cost, but of course you can bring your own equipment if you choose.

Soon we were set up and ready to fish. I got after it and “BAM” it felt like someone had tried to rip the rod out of my hand! As I reeled, I was shocked at the sheer power of this fish. The clear water revealed a rainbow trout with a belly that made me laugh out loud. I looked at Mike and said, “So that’s what all the hype is about!” The Sacramento River is home to a spectacular strain of trout with some of the healthiest fish I’ve ever seen. We continued fishing as continued on page 22

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

WHAT'S INSIDE

2 Mike Bogue's Guide Service 3 Words From The Publisher Contest: Mr. First Time 5 Writing Safari 10 Platinum Approved Outfitters 14 Shane Adair: The Nosler 26 16 Leupold VX-2 20 Archery: Crunch Time 24 Pro's Tip: Premium Tag 26 PacWest Outdoors: Upper Columbia 28 Video Product Reviews 32 Trail Camera Comparison 43 Pro's Pick: Big & J BB 44 Vortex Crossfire II 48 Tikka T3 Superlite 52 Business Directory Thinker: Something 54 Fishful About A Truck 56 Wheels Afield: Hyundai Santa Fe 58 Wild Game Recipe: Dilly Salmon 59 Sacramento Salmon Fishing

Words From The Publisher

2

By Dan Kidder Managing Editor

T www.facebook.com/ sportsmansnews Become a Fan of Sportsman's News for Fan Only contests and post comments about Sportsman's News.

Tell your friends.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dave Wilson Shane Adair Shane Chuning Gary Lewis Chad LaChance

his issue of Sportsman’s News Magazine marks my eight-year anniversary as Managing Editor.

It has been an amazing road so far.

Eight years is the longest I have ever worked anywhere. In the past eight years we have published 96 issues of the magazine. The publishing business is never-ending. Once you print an issue, you immediately start working on the next month. Deadlines, article submissions, chasing after writers, coordinating graphics, staying on top of the printers and all of the daily activities of editing the largest free outdoor publication in America keep you so busy that you scarcely have time to reflect on how fast the past eight years have flown by.

In the past eight years Sportsman’s News has seen some amazing transitions. We added a website in 2008. In 2010 we added a very active online forum where our readers can interact with other readers, post and seek outdoor jobs, find discounted hunting and fishing trips and discuss all things outdoors. We currently have close to 15,000 registered users of our forums.

In 2013, we added a Digital Edition of Sportsman’s News that is delivered directly to the Email Inbox of our subscribers. This digital product provides the same content as the print edition, but with added articles and more in-depth content, all with the convenience of inhome delivery.

In addition to our work to create our great print magazine, we have stepped up production of our television shows, S p o r t s m a n ’s N e w s Television, sold as a DVD in Sportsman’s Warehouse stores.

Filming and editing these shows and video product reviews keep us pretty busy as well.

Because the production schedule never ends, there isn’t as much time to spend doing fun things in the field as we would like and the chance to get out and test gear or film a TV spot is often the only “excuse” I get to leave the office.

Knowing all of this, I will let you in on a little secret; I have never killed a deer. While I do have a background in tactical shooting and firearms instruction, I was never a hunter. The photo up above of a massive Russian Boar is the only big game animal I have ever shot.

See, Sportsman’s News didn’t hire me because I am a knowledgeable hunter.

We have plenty of staff for that task.

They hired me because I know how to build magazines. So, on most days, I am firmly ensconced in my office chair, working away on the next issue, while the rest of the staff are out in the field bringing you great content.

Well, God willing, this is the year all of that changes. I have drawn a muzzleloader buck tag in one of the premium units in Utah and have the support of some of the top experts in the outdoor industry to try to help me take my first deer. If I am successful, you can read about it in an upcoming edition of Sportsman’s News.

Over the last eight years, I have been able to spend some time talking with many of our readers, getting their feedback, hearing their outdoor stories, seeing their hunting pictures and implementing their feedback to help make, what I consider, to be one of the finest outdoor publications anywhere.

I have been very privileged to take this journey of adventure with our readers and contributors alike. I know that I have learned a great deal about the outdoors just by reading and editing the articles our writers submit. We have top contributors such as our publisher Michael Deming, Kent Danjanovich our Senior Editor, Gary Lewis from the Pacific Northwest, The Fishful Thinker himself, Chad LaChance, outdoor television legend Andy Lightbody and many others who provide their expertise and hard-learned lessons and I am anxious to put these resources to the test to go get my first buck.

Another great benefit of working for this great publication, is that I get to test and use some of the best gear ever made. For my hunt, I will be carrying a CVA Accura V2 Northwest edition muzzleloader, topped with a Vortex Crossfire one-power scope. You can read about the CVA muzzleloader on page 30 and the Crossfire on page 44 of this issue.

In addition to being my eighth anniversary, this year marks the 10 th Anniversary of Sportsman’s News. As you know, much of the gear we test and write about gets passed on to our readers in the form of giveaways. To help us celebrate our 10 th year, we are stepping up those giveaways each month with special gear and gun drawings for both our forum users and also separate giveaways for our Digital Edition subscribers. This month we will be giving away another great HK pistol and an LEM industrial strength vacuum sealer, as well as knives from Outdoor Edge, ammunition from DoubleTap, and many other great prizes. So, if you haven’t entered already, head on over to our website, www.sportsmansnews.com and get registered for both the forum and our Digital Edition.

Thank you for the last eight years and here is looking toward another eight years of bringing you great outdoor content.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

RUFFO'S

continued from cover Outfitters, I decided to take the assignment this time. Kent’s previous visit had yielded a very similar fishing experience several years before and I wasn’t about to miss out on that type of fishing again.

This trip was shaping up to be even better than our original visit.

This trip was more than just a revisit, we tailored it to be a family get together.

My brothers, Troy and Jeff Holm, wanted to share the experience along with several of Troy’s good friends. We all arrived in Saskatoon, Canada on the last day of June and overnighted at the Saskatoon Inn where we were introduced to our crew of fisherman for the week.

The next morning we made the scenic three hour drive north through the pothole area of Saskatchewan where millions of ducks spend their summer.

The terrain gives way to a forested terrain about half way into the trip, which will be the views you see for the rest of the week. We arrived at the small town of LaRonge where the float plane would take us to the lodge.

A quick thirty minute flight on the twin turbo Otter had us landing at the front steps of the lodge. Ruffo Schindler, the owner and host for the week, greeted us at the dock and shook everyone’s hand and welcomed them to his Sportsman’s Lodge. His entire crew had the same level of excitement as they introduced themselves. Ruffo’s positive attitude is contagious with everyone. This is one reason we really like to endorse onsite ownership operations.

Traditional Shore Lunch Prep.

These guys are there to see what is going on with every aspect of their business and it usually works out really good in the long run.

We were shown to our private cabin where our group of six would reside for the week. It had four bedrooms with two beds for each room and two bathrooms as well as an oversized living space. The views off of the back deck are worth a million bucks and all the cabins are situated to have this same type of experience. Breakfast and dinner are served in the main lodge while shore lunches of freshly caught fish are served during your days on the water.

The entire area holds a rustic feel of your grandfather’s fishing camp with all the comforts of home including access to Wi-Fi for those of us that need to stay connected to the office on a daily basis.

On the first morning of fishing, we were greeted by the smiling and happy Ruffo himself banging on our door at 0600 with several pots of hot coffee for our group to get the day going. Breakfast to order would be served at 0700 and we would meet our guides on the dock at 0800. Our guide for the week was Andrew and a member of the 1st Nation Indians, as are all of the guides.

These guys have used this lake and river system as a mode of travel since they were kids and its’ bounty has fed many of their families their whole lives. So, it would be an understatement to say they are highly qualified guides.

Andrew knew we would be filming this for a show and our target was strictly big fish. He said that he had a plan in store for us that would deliver

Mike Deming's first pike of day one on a flyrod. on what we were looking for. We raced off the dock in our 16 foot Lund fishing boat and 25 HP outboard to a bay twenty minutes from the lodge. As we slowed down, I could see good sized pike suspended in the crystal clear water just waiting for my fly. Most of the fish I was seeing were more in the 25 to 30 inch range and there was no shortage of them.

As Andrew shut the motor off and we drifted to a stop, I climbed onto the front step of the boat to look for possible targets to launch my fly at. Sight fishing for big pike is about as exciting as you can get and it didn’t take me long to see a possible candidate. I false casted my 9-weight St. Croix rod with a huge red and white weighted fly. As I launched the fifty plus feet of line, it was a perfect

cast and the fly hit just to the right of the fish without spooking it. One long strip and the water erupted with a ferocious attack. It was a solid hook up and a nice fish that gave me half a dozen really good runs before he came to the boat.

A solid 36” northern pike for my first fish of the trip was a pretty good start.

Brother Troy was sharing my boat this day and throwing hardware that he had borrowed from the lodge’s supply of rods and reels. He was banging fish after fish on this morning and it didn’t seem to matter what we were throwing their direction. These fish were aggressive and hungry, making for a memorable day on the water. continued on page 8

Troy Holm and his 37 inch Lake Trout caught on light tackle

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

RUFFO'S

continued from page 6 At about noon we pulled onto the shore to share an old tradition of “Shore Lunch”. This consists of freshly caught walleye, northern pike and lake trout cooked in various fashions throughout the week. Fried potatoes and beans rounded off the meal along with the million dollar view. It’s an experience that everyone looks forward to each and every day.

As I reflected on our own first morning of fishing, the rest of the group arrived, confirming that their day was equally as productive as ours. The biggest fish of the day so far was a 42” whopper which would hold the top honor for several days. As we met on the dock at 5pm which is typical for everyone at the lodge, we confirmed that the 42” fish was going to hold onto the top spot for the day in hopes of winning our biggest fish competition for the week. Everyone had totally lost count on the numbers of fish they had caught and you could tell by the smiles on everyone’s faces that a good time was had by all.

Russell Raad with the winning 43.5 inch pike for the week.

The folks at the cabin next door included a gentleman by the name of Dan Kreitman and his young grandson, Tucker. As with many of these types of trips, you meet many great people.

Tucker is ten-years-old and our group adopted him as one of our own. It was

exciting to see someone have such an exciting time. After a 10 hour day of fishing on the boat and dinner, Tucker would head to the dock where he would continue to fish until it was time to turn in for the night. Oh and by the way, Tucker was able to land a 42” pike on his first day of fishing and decided that he should be in our fishing contest. We were happy to have him included and we looked forward to every evenings fishing report from this young angler.

On one of our other days of fishing, we were going to portage, which meant we would take the boats to a

7

landing and walk several hundred yards through the trees and launch other boats that had been staged for this specific purpose. This day of fishing was as impressive and if possible, even rivaled our first. More big fish were landed, with Russell Raad from our group putting the winning fish of 43.5” onto the board for our group, dethroning three others holding the 42” mark.

Other guest at the lodge had seen the 47- and 48-inch mark throughout their stay, but even though we saw some fish in that caliber, we weren’t able to get them into the boat.

The six days of the trip went by entirely too fast and it was time to head back to reality, but not without rebooking the same week for 2015. Ruffo and his team kindly donated two trips to giveaway for the same week that we will be there next year. The first one is going to be given away through our Writing Contest and all details can be found on page 4 of this issue. If you aren’t lucky enough to have the writing skills you think you need, you can just sign up for our digital edition of Sportsman’s News at www.sportsmansnews.com for a chance to win the other trip. Winners of both will be drawn the end of January 2015.

If you would like to book your own trip with Ruffo’s Sportsman’s Lodge, visit them at www.ruffossportsmanslodge.com or call Bohm Townsend here in the United States at 855-3139310.

Tucker displays his big 42-inch pike, which had him in the lead of our fishing derby for several days.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

9

Mr. First Time Safari

By Dave Wilson

I

n Arizona in June, when it’s 109 degrees, it’s hard to think about packing coats, gloves, and long johns!

I was going on an African safari, but in Africa in June, it is winter, and the elevation where I was going was over 6000 feet. Many people, like myself, have dreamed for years about going on a safari in Africa, reading stories from Ruark, Capstick, and Roosevelt. Now, my dream was becoming a reality!

I met Christo Roos, owner/outfitter for Bokpoort Safaris, a couple of years ago at the Sportsman’s International Expo in Phoenix, Arizona. We corresponded and met again at the 2014 Expo. One of Christo’s hunting packages was “Mr. First Time Africa Safari”, and it sounded exactly like what I was looking for. I was only looking for plains game, and the adventure/experience, not dangerous (and expensive) trophies. The “introductory safari” featured my most desired animal, a Gemsbok, and other animals I was interested in: Wildebeest, Impala or Blesbok, and Springbok. I also had the option of adding animals, if I wanted. The hunt was not what I pictured as a “traditional” African Safari, in the jungle or desertlike flat lands, but a mountain safari on horseback! Christo’s hunt seemed to be more personal, less-commercial, and presented a unique adventure where I

Sportsman’s News Outdoor Writing Contest Winner See pg. 4 for entry details.

Dave and Professional Hunter, Christo Roos, with his Gemsbok Bull would be the only client that week. It was also in a malaria free area (one less worry). Although a safari may sound “exotic” and expensive, it is actually comparable in price to a guided elk hunt in the States (or less), and you see and get more animals!

The author with his first trophy, a Springbok!

After a long flight, Christo, and his tracker/skinner Tyron, met me at the Johannesburg airport. Everything was loaded into the truck and we were off!

Our first hunting camp was at a hunting concession that Christo had arranged.

The site offered a restaurant, lodging, interaction with some animals, and various plains game. Since this was my first time to South Africa for a Safari, I wanted everything to go smoothly.

For that reason, I opted to “hire” (rent) guns rather than transport mine from the United States. I was rather surprised to find out that most of the guns had “silencers” (sound suppressors) to minimize the noise and lower the disruption to the herds. The first gun I hunted with was a scoped .270 with a thumbhole stock. After checking in and shooting the rifle, we drove through the property viewing, photographing, and field judging the animals we saw.

The area was rolling grasslands with patches of trees and water holes, and had a wide variety of plains game.

Driving the roads and viewing hundreds of animals was amazing! There were Springbok, Gemsbok, Cape Buffalo, Blesbok, Waterbuck, and Black Wildebeest.

The next morning we rose early, had coffee, and went hunting. We had spotted a good sized Springbok ram during the drive the evening prior and decided we would try to go after him. It was cool and still early when we returned to the area where we had first spotted him. We located the small herd a few hundred yards from where they were the night before. We stalked, on foot, to about 300 yards and I steadied the rifle on the shooting sticks and waited for a clear shot. As the group moved about, the opportunity for a broad-side shot at the one we were after presented itself.

I took the shot and had my first trophy on the ground!

Later that day we were able to spot and move in on my most desired trophy-- a Gemsbok. As with many African plains game animals, both the cows and bulls have horns. The cows’ horns can be longer, but they are thinner and lacking the mass of the bulls.

As we moved closer, the cow and bull were slowing walking, broadside to my position. The Gemsbok bull stopped 147 yards away. I ran the vertical line in continued on page 50

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS | August 2014

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS | August 2014

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

The Next Generation of Long Range Shooting — The .26 Nosler Cartridge

By Shane Adair

T

he 26 Nosler is the real deal. It is a well thought out cartridge and performs way better than Nosler has advertised. Here is straight talk about this new cartridge and what it is all about.

The cartridge is based on the 7mm Remington Ultra Mag, but shortened a little bit to the length of a 300 Win Mag, then necked down to a .264 caliber. It’s a breed all of its own - like a short mag on steroids. In our testing here at Double Tap with a Nosler Patriot rifle, it has been the most fun we have had in a while. Like most rounds produced at Double Tap, we have been able to achieve some great

results with both speed and accuracy in a hand loaded bullet. The Nosler 129 grain Long Range Accubond is flying out the barrel at just over 3,600 FPS and the Barnes 127 grain Long Range X is flying at 3650 FPS. Smoking fast and extremely accurate both with ½ inch MOA out of a Nosler rifle and a couple other custom built rifles as well.

The 26 doesn’t seem to be finicky. It is liking of different bullets as is the norm with most rifles tested. With the recoil about like a 7mm mag, most can shoot it without a muzzle break. With the high speeds and the high Ballistic Coefficient bullets it is retaining some amazing elevation. Both the Nosler and the Barnes bullets are neck to neck

out to 1,000 yrds, with the Accubond with the higher BC, but the Barnes with a little more speed, keeping them pretty even. They are reaching the 1,000 yard mark at 15 MOA elevation with a 200 yard zero, which translates into 2,149 FPS and 1,322 foot pounds of energy with 160 inches drop.

So how does that compare at 1000 yards?

26 NOSLER with Long range Accubond 129 grain bullet, BC .561, 3,600 FPS muzzle velocity, 2,149 FPS at 1,000 yards, 1,322 foot pounds energy, bullet drop of 160 inches.

300 RUM with Nosler Accubond 180 grain bullet, BC .507, 3,325 FPS muzzle velocity, 1,869 FPS at 1,000 yards, 1,358

foot pounds of energy and bullet drop of 193 inches. The .26 Nosler beats it by almost three feet in drop with energy being almost identical.

7MM MAGNUM with Nosler Accubond 160 grain bullet, BC .531, 3,000 FPS muzzle velocity, 1,636 FPS at 1,000 yards, 951 foot pounds of energy and bullet drop of 238 inches. The .26 Nosler beats it by over six feet of drop and over 350 of energy.

These are all results with real shooting data and not accelerated charts.

All shooting was done at 6,000 feet of elevation. What this all translates into is a sweet shooting, high ballistic

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Leupold VX-2 — The Birth of an Icon

By Dave Domin

A

couple weeks ago when I was tasked to write 1,500 words about the Leupold VX-2 rifle scope for Sportsman’s News, I thought to myself, “Uhh, the Leupold VX-2 is very, very, very, very, very…”

Well you get the picture. After some thorough contemplation though, I figured digging back, way back, into how this scope came to be what it is today, would prove interesting.

Starting from humble beginnings, Frederick Leupold came to Portland, Oregon from Germany in 1907, and quickly established a firm to manufacture and repair surveying a n d h y d ro g r a p h i c i n s t ru m e n t s .

Fred’s son, Marcus, broadened the company’s focus in the late 1930s after the avid outdoorsman missed a buck on the soggy western slopes of Oregon’s Cascade Range. (His scope had fogged, as was common for scopes of that era.) Frustrated by the experience, Marcus set out to build a better rifle scope. His quest for quality continues today.

In 1947, Leupold introduced their first rifle scope, the Plainsman.

This scope featured a 7/8 inch steel maintube, 2 ¼ magnification with magnesium fluoride lens coatings, graduated sleeves for elevation and windage adjustment, and weighed a mere 7 ounces. The Plainsman was a worthy scope at the time, but its adjustment mechanism was not air-tight and damp weather caused internal fogging. To combat this, in 1949, Leupold introduced the Pioneer. This scope was the first to feature the exclusive Leupold nitrogen filling process. To keep this scope air-tight, the external adjustments were removed from the maintube and incorporated into the AdjustoMount system. 1955 brought about one of Leupold’s greatest achievements, the introduction of a waterproof scope that featured a 1 inch maintube and internal adjustments, the Mountaineer.

1959 brought us Leupold’s first variable magnification rifle scope, the Vari-X 3-9, the scope that ultimately turned into the VX-2 of today. Believe it or not, this first

variable scope held the reticle in the first focal plane. Meaning the reticle appears to get larger as magnification increases. Another unusual feature or lack thereof, was the absence of a self-centered reticle.

When one would make adjustments, the reticle would physically move i n t h e f i e l d o f v i e w.

At lower magnification ranges this was not particularly noticeable, but as the power is increased and the field of view decreased, the off-center condition was much more apparent.

This condition is normal and is not a defect. It is for this reason that the following notice was packaged in the box with the older Vari-X 3-9 scope: “To obtain the most satisfactory performance from your Leupold Vari-X 3-9 scope, installation and initial sighting-in should be done at the 9X magnification setting. Subsequent changes of the magnification selector will not affect the zero in any way.” If this suggestion is followed and the mount system correctly adjusted, keeping the reticle as near the center of the adjustment travel as possible at 9x, the off-center reticle condition will not be apparent or will be greatly minimized.”

Many shooters and hunters don’t know it, but Leupold introduced the world to the Duplex reticle at the end of 1962. The heavy outer posts of this crosswire-style reticle enabled shooters to find their target quickly and aim precisely with the thin center wires. And what better way to introduce the Duplex than to install it into, what would become Leupold’s most popular scope ever, the Vari-X II. Early Vari-X II’s featured aluminum maintubes with a high gloss finish, a front pivot erector system that delivered 26 Minute of Angle (MOA) of overall travel,

a self-centered, rear focal plane, reticle, and ½ MOA friction adjustments. The magnesium fluoride lens coatings delivered approximately 82% light transmission. Leupold expanded this line with a Vari-X II 2-7x in 1964.

It was during this time that Leupold felt it was going through an identity crisis. Companies like Weaver, Lyman, Redfield and Bausch & Lomb were providing tough competition. Leupold needed to figure out a way to differentiate themselves from the others. Consumers needed to recognize a Leupold scope with a simple glance. “This assignment might seem simple given the design and engineering feats evident in a finished rifle scope. But we anguished over it. It had to be visible from all sides and easily applied or installed without changing the dimensions engineered into the optical systems,” said Don Waggoner, former Vice President of Engineering. It was then that George Schray, Leupold plant superintendent, came

to the rescue. He fashioned a thin, gold-colored ring that was installed between the objective housing and the objective lock ring. “It was just what we needed. The gold ring is the first thing that a shooter looks for when shopping for a Leupold.

It’s what brings Leupold to mind when one sees it mounted on a rifle, pictured in a magazine, or shown on television,” said Waggoner.

Over the next 2 decades, the VariX II changed very little, other than the addition of scopes that offered magnification ranges beyond the popular 3-9x and optional matte black and silver finishes. But in 1984, Leupold engineers changed the internal design of the Vari-X II to what is called a center pivot erector system that increased the scopes overall travel from 26 to 56 MOA. This center pivot design is still in use today. These scopes were given the name Vari-X IIc until 2002, when further changes occurred. continued on page 18

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

LEUPOLD VX2

continued from page 16 The VX-II was introduced at SHOT Show 2002. This scope began using technology that was developed for Leupold’s higher end scopes, the Vari-X III and the LPS. Leupold started applying Multicoat 4 lens coating to the external lenses which increased light transmission to approximately 86%. Multicoat 4 greatly increased the amount of available light delivered to the eye while minimizing the reflections of the sky on the outer eyepiece. In addition to the coating, Leupold incorporated their ¼ MOA click adjustments. These audible clicks allowed shooters to make the appropriate adjustments without having to look at the dial, as with the friction dials.

In 2004, the VX-II was given further enhancements. The entire lens system was upgraded to Multicoat 4 lens coatings. Not only did this increase the image contrast and clarity but it increased the light transmission to 92%, a number al-

most unheard of in a scope at that price point. A lockable, fast focus eyepiece was developed, this allows the shooter to quickly and easily focus the reticle with minimal effort.

Finally, a new tactile power selector was installed, making magnification adjustment a breeze, even with gloved hands.

So here we are today, 2014. A couple years ago the VX-2 changed again and it’s not just the number at the end that looks different. This latest generation VX-2 redefines high performance. Leupold’s Quantum Optical System uses carefully selected lead free lenses with Index Matched lens coatings that are precisely positioned with each other to deliver up to 94% light transmission

with the highest levels of optical clarity. The addition of DiamondCoat on the exterior lens surfaces provides the utmost in abrasion resistance. The VX-2 also utilizes other updated design features including an externally threaded fast-focus eyepiece for quick and easy reticle focus. The finger adjustable ¼ MOA dials provide quick and easy zeroing without the use of coins or tools.

Some models are even available with the Custom Dial System (CDS) that can be ballistically matched through the Leupold Custom Shop. To keep this scope fog proof for life, it is filled with Leupold’s industry leading second generation Argon/Krypton blend. This blend is drier and more resistant to thermal shock than the

traditional nitrogen filled scopes.

The VX-2 is available in six magnification ranges with nine reticle options. They can be used for anything from dangerous game to varmints to simple target practice. The sleek, classic lines and that iconic Golden Ring means that you will be buying a scope that is as durable as it is aesthetically pleasing. All VX-2 rifle scopes are Designed, Machined and Assembled by over 600 highly skilled American workers in Beaverton, Oregon.

So the next time you are in your local Sportsman’s Warehouse looking for a new rifle scope, let them know you would like to see the very, very, very, very, very best, ask to see a Leupold.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Crunch Time

By Shane Chuning

B

y this time some of us are looking at less than a month for archery season to kick into high gear, especially some of the western states where you are hunting mule deer in velvet and bugling bulls. Definitely an exciting time of year for trail camera pictures, scouting, and all the hard work trying to pattern some of the deer you have on your list to go after. The one thing I really enjoy seeing is the antler growth from early on to their full potential. Then making a game plan to close the deal; in hopes of putting meat in your freezer for the year or a trophy on the wall. With all that said there is nothing worse when crunch time comes, the season starts and you are not prepared like you should be. I would like to talk about a few things that we might need to consider looking at in the last few weeks leading up to the opening day of archery season.

Some of us struggle the minute we put a broadhead on and wonder where our accuracy went with the fieldpoints. This can be caused by several things, not in tune, not gripping a given bow properly, under spined arrows to name a few of the most common causes of broadhead in accuracy. This late in the year, it might not be worth it to reinvent the wheel with ones form. It would be best to tackle this early on in the

year, well before season. However, there are a few things to do with tuning to get broadheads flying better with your fieldpoints. First let’s look at where the broadhead is impacting in reference to your fieldpoint. When your broadheads are impacting right of your fieldpoints, you would chase your broadhead with your rest in very small increments. In this case it would mean moving your rest to the right. The same can be said if your broadheads are hitting to the left.

You would move your rest to the left in small increments at a time. When making any adjustments you will need to make sight adjustments as necessary as well or just aim at the same spot every time. Then when your broadheads come together with fieldpoints, make your final adjustment with your sight to dial it in.

Now if your broadhead is hitting high you will either need to lower your rest or advance your top cam depending on the cam system. When your broadheads are impacting low you would raise your rest or retard your top cam. Remember when making adjustments to make them small and then revaluate the results before adjusting again. If nothing works to improve your situation of broadheads impacting with your fieldpoints it is more than likely spine, rest contact or grip related. If all else fails you can try shooting mechanicals. The point I want to drive home is, be prepared

Get used to shot placement on the animals you plan on hunting for the year.

Practice shooting on your knees on a regular basis and other positions you might encounter in the field. Don't be afraid to recreate the hunting situations you might come up against. and know your equipment, so you can this but it has worked for me in the be confident in a well placed shot on past and I still do this mentally today the animal you are pursuing. when I practice.

Another thing to squeeze in there Lastly, let’s focus on awkward posiis 3D shoots or 3D targets in general. tions at full draw while hunting. You It’s always good practice to get used never know what positions you might to your shot placement skills on these be in at full draw and the more you targets at different angles you might prepare for them, the less chance you encounter in the field. A lot of us just will blow a shot. When practicing the shoot at a foam block type of target final weeks up until opening day I all year and become complacent. would highly recommend shooting However, when an animal appears around objects, shooting on your in shooting range you can be thrown knees and at different angles up and off. I know this might sound odd but down. Focus on your form and keep it happens every year, people not pre- that repeatable from your waist up pared and when they see a deer or elk even in these awkward positions. they freeze, or get nervous on making The more you can do this the more a clean shot. This happens all too often likely you will make a clean and acwhen you have new archers looking curate shot when in those situations. to harvest their first animal. The more The more reference points you have you are used to seeing 3D targets, the the better as well in those situations. more it helps when the moment of What I mean by that is nose to string, truth presents itself. If for some reason kisser in the corner of your mouth if you don’t have access to 3D targets need be, peep housing still matching you can still prepare mentally ahead up with sight housing, bubble level of time with your traditional bag or still true before you release the arrow. foam block target. You might see this These things should become second as odd, but when I practice (regardless nature to you and the more you pracof the type of target) I mentally put tice them the more these awkward myself in a hunting situation. It’s my angled shots become easier to make time to reenact a real hunting situa- with confidence. tion and be a kid you might say. To be In closing I hope these few tips are honest the more you can put yourself taken to heart and practiced, knowmentally in the woods at full draw on ing that the archery season is right an animal the less nerve racking it will at our door step. Good luck to all of be when the situation presents itself in you this season, I hope it is a safe and real life. Now you might laugh about successful one.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

MIKE BOGUE

continued from page 2 Ashley, my wife, hooked into one after another, keeping Mike on “Net Duty” as we yelled out “FISH ON!” Time fly’s when you’re having fun and before we knew it we had caught more fish than we could track, so we decided to target some specific areas known for holding big rainbows. The average trout size we had been catching definitely weren’t small with an average range of 14-18 inches, but they were such healthy and fat fish that they felt twice as big compared to fish from other areas I’d visited.

We headed up stream to a few areas where Mike had caught some fish in the 5-10 pound mark in the past. The water level was about 4-8 ft. deep with good cover for big trout to wait in ambush for its prey. As I watched my St. Croix rod tip, ever so intently waiting for a fish, I heard Ashley yell those famous words, “FISH ON!” As I watch her fish display some impressive acrobatic moves, a fish smacks my lure. “DOUBLE” I yell with excitement! Although they aren’t the big one’s we are after from this fishing hole, they sure put up a fight.

The very next cast, I hooked into something with true power as it ripped line off my reel playing the fisherman’s symphony of a buzzing drag system. I had to be careful to not snap the line. I was using ultralight tackle with 6-pound leader and by the feel of this fish, it was definitely a big boy. I battled to gain line, but it

seemed that with every 3-feet of line gained, another 8-feet would go out.

With our guide maneuvering the boat around, I was able to gain more and more line, but the fish soon led us to the opposite side of the river and back – zzzzzzz - the line ripped off my reel for a good 15 seconds before I could start gaining line.

The fish headed into the current and stayed just long enough for me to get leverage, lifting his head up and giving us a quick glimpse of this magnificent fish. Fifteen minutes into the fight, I can tell the fish is starting to get fatigued, as I’m able to bring it to the surface. To our amazement, it was a king salmon that had made it into the river a little early and must have weighed 20+ pounds. We were all in shock to catch a salmon in this area of the river, but that’s the excitement on the Sacramento River, where it is always a possibility that your very next cast could be a 20+ pound fish. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to fully admire this remarkable fish because as I mentioned earlier, salmon season doesn’t start until July 16th, so we had to immediately release it.

While battling this fish we found that we had drifted pretty far down stream towards another good fishing hole known for big rainbows. Ashley was the first to get her lure in the water and ‘BAM’ another big fish on!

As her face lit up with excitement, the fight was on. The buzzing sound from the drag was oh so familiar to us at this point and we knew she was in for a fight! Smiling ear-to-

ear, my wife was enjoying the battle of gaining line, losing line, gaining, losing. She paused and said to Mike and myself, “I love fishing!”, as we all burst into laughter. I watched my wife pull the rod into her body and reel as fast as she could; repeating this process over and over for what felt like an endless battle. When the fish was finally brought to the boat, we saw a beautiful salmon similar in size to mine.

I looked over at Ashley as Mike had the fish in the water removing the hook and asked her what she thought. “This is better than Disneyland,” she shouted, making us all laugh out loud! It was then that I said to Mike, “Put us down for a salmon fishing trip in September”!

The next day was nothing but fish after fish. We spent the day

conversing amongst each other shouting, FISH ON! It made for an unforgettable trip that we will look forward to soon doing again.

Mike Bogue’s Guide Service on the Sacramento River provides a great experience that’s ideal for your family retreat or just getting together with friends. If you’re looking for great fishing with ease of access, the Sacramento River in Redding, California is your place.

As one of our newest Platinum Approved Outfitters, Mike Bogue’s Guide Service really understands what it means to be a fishing guide. With affordable rates and central location, it’s easy to see why Mike Bogue has so many repeat customers. Give Mike Bogue’s Guide Service a call today at 530-246-8457 to book your own unforgettable fishing trip.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

The Truth About Your Premium Tag

By Michael Deming

A

s you sit at your computer hitting the refresh button and just hoping that the state will post the results of this years’ drawing just a few minutes early, the anticipation is killing you. Every year you go through the same ritual and hoping this will be your year. Unfortunately for a great number of people, this time ends with disappointment.

However, there will be a small percentage of people who get to see their name in the successful category.

WOW! The excitement is close to that you used to experience as a young child at Christmas.

The opportunities for this upcoming season are endless. Yes, it just may be time to call all your buddies and let them know about your good fortune.

This scenario has played out in a lot of homes this year and has for decades. The problem with this scenario for the majority of people is that they have never put their boots in the unit they have just drawn.

If they are lucky, they have driven through it on occasion. They might have had a buddy tell them that this is a good unit because they had a tag years ago.

They might have just applied for the tag because it takes 20 preference points to be guaranteed a tag.

Regardless of the reason, you have a tag right now which may or may not have the potential to yield you a trophy of a lifetime and you need to make the most of it. Here are the questions you need to

Pro’s Tips know the answers to about your tag to truly make the most of it.

• What is the possible trophy potential of this unit?

• How many tags have been given out and how many other seasons are going to be going on when I’m planning on hunting?

• What is the moon phase during the open dates?

• Where the animal’s rut and what happens to them if we get early snow?

• What do the animals do when they start to see excessive pressure from hunters?

These are just a small smattering of questions you should know the answer to if you plan on being successful this coming fall. If you don’t know the answers to these questions, you are likely going to go home with tag soup.

Every year I have numerous conversations with hunters about these exact issues. Unfortunately, these conversation usually come after the hunt is over and they are, of course, disappointed with the outcome.

They have either killed a substandard animal or gone home unsuccessful.

Just because it has taken a ton of points to draw

Steve Mayer and Mike Deming spent over 30 days in this Nevada unit prior to the hunt to be able to put a tag on this 380 bull.

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Mike Deming took this 87” Antelope in Colorado with Papierski’s Big Game Hunts which is a top quality outfitter that knows the area and delivers year after year. a unit, it doesn’t mean that there is a monster buck or bull hiding behind every tree. As a matter of fact, there are very few units anywhere that this is the case. Sure, there are always those lucky guys that drive into the unit on opening morning and shoot a giant just off the road. If you are that guy, it was a great place to hunt. However, if you aren’t that guy, you might find out your premium tag wasn’t worth the wait.

You more than likely see and kill bigger animals in the units you can draw every couple of years and this is because you know the answers to the questions asked above. The number of points it takes to draw a specific unit has a lot more to do with the amount of available public land in the area than it does animal quality. Limited amounts of tags usually always means more opportunities, but it doesn’t always equate to trophy potential. There aren’t very many Henry Mountains premium deer tag type units anywhere. If you don’t have years of experience in the unit, there are many of those questions that you have no chance of answering. If you do have some experience or friends who have experience willing to help you, you are probably in for an enjoyable hunt.

I don’t mean to throw water on your raging fire of excitement about that premium tag you have in your pocket. Instead, I want to create the awareness of what you need to do at an early enough time in the year to actually make a difference. If the hunt unit is in your back yard, you should spend every free minute figuring out the roads, water sources, feed sources and talk to as many people as you possibly can about the past hunts they have been on in this unit. If time away from home is limited or you will be traveling from a far away state to hunt, I would highly recommend using an outfitter. This is a tag of a lifetime and if you were to purchase it at an auction, it could cost you between $5,000 and $350,000. The value of that tag is a lot to pin your success on “hope.”

Outfitters are in these units year after year and know the answers to the questions, which means that they can help you make the most out of that tag. Their years of experience is well worth the knowledge you will gain about the area if you hire the right outfitter. Hiring the right outfitter is another difficult decision, but we at Sportsman’s News can help with this process. We have been in this industry for 10 years and it is a very small industry when you put a microscope on the best in the business. We know who is good and better yet, we have a really good list of those who are not.

If an outfitter is in your budget, they are highly recommended to help you make the most out of your tag. If they aren’t in your budget and you just want to go and enjoy your hunt with family and friends, I wish you the very best of luck and encourage you to savor every minute of every day.

For those of you hard-core trophy hunters who already know this info, quit reading and hit the mountains, I’m already there. Good luck this fall and I hope to see you on the mountain.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Reflected Light On The Upper Columbia

strong ever since, which causes one to ask, how did this happen?

One reason is that water managers and fisheries managers in Canada are working together now to make sure that out-migrating juveniles get the water they need when they need it. A large hatchery program at Canada’s Skaha Dave Vedder and Gary Lewis admire a sockeye taken on A quest for sockeye salmon seven Lake, run by the the Columbia. dams up the big river Okanogan Tribal hilltops; trailer lights shimmered un- Nations Alliance, releases hundreds derwater. There were dozens of boats of thousands of juvenile sockeye each

By Gary Lewis out there already, like opening day on year. And last, the fish that return to Lake Osoyoos in Washington have unlight seeped into the conscious- a trout lake. Hope is epidemic.

Before us, the moonlight danced on found restored spawning habitat. ness of the dark over the hills of the Biologists point to favorable ocean Columbia Basin. I thought back to glassy water. We were on the lake early the night before. We had checked into because the temperature was expected conditions as another reason for the inthe Marriott in Wenatchee, received a to hit 103 here on the surface of Lake crease in fish numbers; and there is little visitor basket full of apples and applets Pateros, seven dams up the Columbia. commercial harvest of these smaller We were here because Dave Vedder, Pacific salmon because Snake River and cotlets and other goodness. Off the that sage of all things salmonid, had sockeye are on the endangered list. highway into the lap of luxury.

And then I called our guide for the sniffed out a fishery he said I needed morrow, Brad Wagner. “I’ll be by to pick to partake of. With us, we had Danny Salmon on the Run Sockeye were made for rivers fed by Cook, a steelhead guide from Seattle, you up at 2:30,” he said.

“Excuse me? Did you say 2:30 in the 15-year-old Tommy Brown from Bend large, inland lakes. In the Columbia system, Skaha and Osoyoos offer some and Sam Pyke from Sisters. morning?”

We clipped lines to downrigger of the best spawning habitat. Columbia He said 2:30. That meant we had to set the alarm for 2:00 and NOT hit the cables and dropped baits into dark wa- sockeye also return to the Snake River ter. I never thought I’d fish for sockeye to spawn in Idaho’s Alturas, Pettit, RedSnooze button.

Dawn’s first rays reflected off the on the Columbia, but the last couple of fish, Stanley and Yellowbelly lakes, a years of returns journey of some 900 miles and an elevahad caught my tion gain of 6,500 feet up from the salt.

Sockeye fry spend from one to three attention.

Washington’s years in the freshwater before they Department of out-migrate to the Pacific. Once in Fish and Wildlife saltwater, sockeye stay for one to four opens the sea- years before returning to their home son above Wells rivers and lakes.

The silver rockets blast up the CoDam when 60,000 sockeye climb the lumbia from Astoria and cross seven ladder into the dams before they stop at the mouth of Brewster Pool. the Okanogan where they meet a flotilla It didn’t happen of fishermen.

Our baits were Mack’s Lure’s Cha often for many years, but in 2008, Cha Sockeye Squidders to which Brad managers count- hooked a prawn cured in Pautzke’s ed over 213,000 purple Fire cure.

On the boat we also had rods rigged Tommy Brown (15), of Bend, boated this bright hatchery fish. Upper Cofor kings because there were a pile of lumbia sockeye chinook while fishing the upper Columbia, 525 miles up big summer fish in the river. runs have been from the ocean.

S

We started with the sockeye gear because the bluebacks were the priority and they are nothing if not finicky.

Like their landlocked kokanee cousins, they are plankton eaters. There is no good reason they should bite the lures we tempt them with, and a lot of times they don’t.

Around us, the fish were active, both sockeyes and kings broke the water with their tails or leaped clear to crash back to the surface.

It took 20 minutes to get the first grab. I lost that one, but it wasn’t long before we had another chance, and soon, our first nickel-bright sockeye in the boat.

This salmon fishing bore little resemblance to the river fishing anywhere else. With the downriggers in the slow water, it was more like a calm day on Crescent Lake or Odell.

Except the sockeye were bigger than most kokanee. These fish run 18 to 26 inches. And then there are the Chinook, which can go 40 pounds or more.

It seemed like everyone was hitting sockeye. Upstream, Indian fishermen carefully drew their net around their harvest then selected out the fish they couldn’t keep and released them. We fished close and caught a couple they had missed.

After we had a bunch of sockeye in the box, we rigged the big rods.

Brad dipped into the bait cooler and pulled out cut plug herring, dyed in two colors, green apple and grape.

For chinook, Brad uses bigger flashers. We dropped the downriggers down to 15 feet and cut a zigzag pattern through the field of boats. It was less than 20 minutes before Tommy set the barbless hook and the rod stayed buried. It is hard to imagine that, 525 miles up from the ocean, a chinook could be so bright, but this one threw a flash like a king at Astoria.

Dave Vedder, Brad Wagner and Danny Cook have caught a lot of salmon. This time, the light was reflected in a younger pair of eyes.

These moments are brief, but they can be so bright.

Gary’s latest book, A Bear Hunter’s Guide to the Universe, is available as an e-book on Kindle and Nook or in print at www.GaryLewisOutdoors.com

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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28

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

2014 New Video Product Reviews

Sitka Gear Grinder Pants

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itka Gear developed a clothing roominess of these pants make them line with the most extreme and ideal for sitting for hours in your blind. hardcore hunters and outdoors- The front pockets are extra deep and men in mind. For the past eight years, the concealed zipper pockets across they have continued to set the bar for the thigh are a great place to store adthose looking to take their sport to the ditional shells, calls or anything you next level. The new Grinder pant for need handy when you are in the sitting 2014 is another one of those top of the position. line products you’re going to wonder These are so much more efficient than how you lived without. side cargo pockets. When using a layout This pant was designed blind, the contents always to be the waterfowlers work shift to the back of your leg pant, but is just as much which usually requires you at home being your day to to tilt to the side when lookday work wear out on the ing to get items out of them. ranch. They are built with a The low profile belt system stretch woven fabric which will keep your pants in place was developed to endure which is essential when you the jagged and sharp gran- Scan this QR Code with your load down the thigh pockets smart phone to view the ite in sheep country which Sportsman's News YouTube with necessary cargo for has proven itself year after Channel. Video Available those early season waterfowl year. The 4-way stretch and after August 2nd. hunts.

The Grinder pant is heavy enough to provide some insulation on those crisp mornings of early waterfowl season, but provide great breathability so that as the day heats up, you can still be comfortable.

The low-profile seams and glued hems on these pants make them very comfortable under a pair of waders as well. A pair of Grinder pants weighs in at 22.90 ounces and comes in the the GORE OPTIFADE Concealment waterfowl pattern which incorporates eight colors, dithering and a hexagonal micro pattern to con-

fuse the bird and disrupt the human shape.

If camo is not your thing and you are looking for a hard core pair of work pants for cutting wood, working the farm or just k i c k i n g b a c k a ro u n d camp, the dirt color solids are for you. They come in sizes ranging from 30 regular all the way up 44 regular. To accommodate the taller folks, Sitka has provided a tall size from 34 to 38.

The Sitka Grinder Pant is truly one of the most versatile pants they have ever developed for day to day use and is available at Sportsman’s Warehouse.

Savage B-Mag .17 Winchester Super Mag

V

armint hunters AccuTrigger. The benefit like extremely fast of this trigger is that it alshooting rifles that lows the owner to adjust won’t destroy the pelt of it from 1.5 to 6 pounds the animal they are trying without taking it to a gunto harvest. Not only is this smith. The combination rifle fast and fun to shoot, of the AccuTrigger, heavy it is economical. barrel being floated, and T h e B - M a g . 1 7 W S M Scan this QR Code with the cartridge itself, makes your smart phone to view rifle built by Savage is t h e S p o r t s m a n ' s N e w s this an extremely deadly d e s i g n e d t o s h o o t t h e YouTube Channel. Video combination for varmint Available after August 16th. new .17 WSM cartridge hunting. which is a varmint huntThe .17 WSM case was ers dream. The cartridge itself was designed off of the .27 caliber nail launched in 2013, but with very gun case which has been necked limited options for rifles available d o w n t o h a n d l e t h e . 1 7 c a l i b e r until the B-Mag hit the shelves. This rifle is unlike a lot of varmint rifles as it only weighs in at just a hair under five pounds without a scope.

Our test model has a stainless steel heavy barrel as well as stainless action. It is drilled and tapped for scope mounts and comes with rail type bases. Its overall length is 40.5” long. The B-Mag has a free float, 22” barrel with a 1 in 9 right hand twist.

It has a synthetic stock and a detachable 8 round rotary magazine.

It is also equipped with the Savage

bullet. The .17 HMR is its most compared to rimfire round and it literally leaves it in the dust. The .17 WSM sends a .20 grain bullet downrange right at 3,000 feet per second, which is about 625 feet per second more than the HMR. When you start comparing drop with this type of speed, you can see what it really does. With a 100 yard zero, the drop at 200 yards shooting the .17 WSM is about 4.1 inches. The drop for the same bullet out of the .17 HMR is about 10.7 inches at 300 yards, it isn’t even worth talking about. The speed

behind this little bullet makes a h u g e d i ff e re n c e i n t h e w i n d a s well. Shooting at 200 yards with a 10 MPH full value cross wind, the WSM bullet will drift 7.3 inches whereas the HMR will drift over double that amount.

This setup is a deadly combination for hunting or just to enjoy the aspects of shooting. It is an ideal setup to break your youth into shooting as well. It has absolutely no recoil and with a box of fifty rounds at under $15, you can afford to let them get really good at shooting.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

29

2014 New Video Product Reviews

ALPS Outdoorz Packs

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he Sportsman’s News team has been a big fan of the Alps packs for many years. They have proven to be extremely durable, well designed and best of all, affordable. The new Crossfire pack and the redesigned Pursuit are proving worthy of your consideration in a pack for the upcoming season.

Crossfire The Crossfire is a 2325 cubic inch pack that has a large main pocket, large organizational pocket and a detachable front pocket. The detachable front pocket has webbing and buckles that allow hunters to wear the pocket across their chest to keep calls and other essential items close and ready.

This also allows hunters the

option to leave the main part of the pack at the blind or starting point and just keep the detachable pocket with them. The detachable pocket can also be attached to the harness and waist belt via included buckles, so if hunters want to keep the pack on, but still want to have their calls in front and easily accessible, there are multiple options.

The Crossfire also features a vented back to keep hunters cool while they’re conquering rugged terrain. It features a lightweight X-frame, that when combined with the padded shoulder straps and padded waist belt, makes for a very comfortable haul.

There are large zippered Scan this QR Code with your smart phone to view pockets on the waist belt t h e S p o r t s m a n ' s N e w s and two mesh pockets to YouTube Channel. Video Available after August 23rd. keep water bottles easily accessible as well.

Pursuit The Pursuit Pack is a 2700 cubic inch pack that weighs in at four pounds. It is perfect for keeping your bow or rifle secure and stowed away when you’re trekking through fields and rugged terrain. The lashing straps, along with the expandable pocket, make a great combination to securely keep your weapon in place. There is a large main pocket, large front pocket and lower side mesh pockets to keep your gear organized. The addition of the shelf to the organizer pocket is a great feature for those of you that like to know where everything is at all times. This is a great pack for the

tree stand hunter. The D-ring allows you to hang the pack and provides great access to this large organizer pocket and shelf. It comes with a blaze orange rain cover which is a great asset when wet weather rolls through. The waist belt is padded so when you’re carrying a little bit of extra weight, the comfort level is still going to be top of the line.

Leupold VX-2 3-9x40mm CDS Scope

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he Leupold name has been manufacturing trusted products year after year for hunters and tactical shooters around the world. The VX-2 Scope continues that tradition with quality craftsmanship that we have come to expect from Leupold.

The Leupold team dedicated their design efforts over the last year to developing the optical system for the VX-2 model, setting a new bar of performance for hunters and shooters of all levels. The Quantum Optical System is what sets this scope apart from the others. Starting with the time tested foundation of their Vari-X model - Leupold has worked to improve the overall optics by employing state-of-the-art optical and mechanical design software, paving the path for new levels of performance. All of that refinement combined with the Duplex Reticle will assist you in bringing your target into clear view. Invented in 1962 the Duplex Reticle has been a staple in the Leupold line, defined by its heavy posts which stand out against cover in low light conditions and point boldly to the intersection. The intersection has thin crosshairs to help bring everything into a focal point without obscuring your tar-

get, increasing accuracy and bringing to blend virtually eliminates the effects life the old adage: ‘aim small, miss small.’ of thermal shock. Over the exterior The VX-2 has numerous magnifi- of the lenses, Leupold has added the cations available for every shooting Diamond Coat. This coating is a safe scenario. Our model was the 3X9 and guard for the exterior lenses and provided ample magnification for those increases durability against abrasion shots inside several hundred yards. while providing better light transmisCombined with a generous eye relief, sion for the life of the product. The the VX-2 only weighs 11.7oz, VX-2 comes with a lifetime making it ideal for a variety warranty and time-tested of guns. The tactile power durability you can count selector allows you to adjust on that’s rugged enough the optical zoom specific for for the beginner to expert your needs. hunter.

The Quantum Optical SysThe “ VX-2 3-9x40mm tem results in better clarity CDS” comes with Leupold’s with up to 94% light transmis- Scan this QR Code with Custom Dial System [CDS]. sion to ensure good visibility your smart phone to view The CDS works by laserthe Sportsman's News while hunting at first light YouTube Channel. Video inscribing your scope’s eland dusk hours. The result Available after August 30th. evation dial to match your is razor sharp imaging. By reload, velocity and conditions positioning optical elements, - giving your scope a custom applying new coatings and keeping the sync with your rifle and bullet. Each time-tested mechanical aspects of the CDS dial is unique, taking all practiVari-X system untouched, Leupold was cal ballistic and environmental factors able to build a better scope with signifi- into account. The dial is marked in ¼ cant performance gains.

MOA increments allowing unmatched The VX-2 is waterproof and features accuracy. For this desired convenience, their exclusive, proprietary Argon/Kryp- simply call Leupold’s toll free number ton gas blend. The Argon/Krypton gas with a few specific details and they will

ship your free CDS dial in 4-6 weeks.

Leupold offers two CDS dials to choose from: a one-turn dial with a zero stop or a two-turn dial without a zero stop.

The Leupold passion and hard work success story is what lies behind all of this quality craftsmanship. The Leupold VX-2 3-9x40mm CDS Scope is proof of their dedication to always improving their product for men and women around the world who look to improve their skills with precision for those heart-racing moments. Stop by your local Sportsman’s Warehouse to pick one up for yourself and receive a $50 rebate during the month of August, while supplies last. See store for details.

30

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

CVA Accura V2 Northwest Edition

By Dan Kidder Managing Editor

egon, Washington, or Idaho, muzzleloader requirements place an extra burden on those who wish to hunt with an VA makes some of the finest in-line muzzleloader. The laws in those muzzleloaders on the market. states favor traditional style rifles over Their quality Bergara barrels more modern breech plug in-line sysbring a marriage of old world crafts- tems. To hunt in those states you must manship with modern technology to have an open breach that is exposed to produce some of the most accurate and the elements and have to use a tradireliably performing barrels anywhere. tional percussion cap or a musket cap So accurate, that CVA guarantees they for ignition. More reliable 209 shotgun will shoot better than any other barrel primers are not permitted. To accomon the market. modate hunters in those regions, CVA The CVA Accura V2 has already es- has created their Northwest series of tablished itself as a first-rate in-line muzzleloaders. While workhorse for making sure still featuring CVA’s patwhen the opportunity presented Quick-Release Breech ents itself, you can get the Plug for easy removal and job done. This is the reason cleaning without tools. The CVA muzzleloaders are the break barrel Accura V2 comofficial black powder guns bined with the Quick-Release of the Sportsman’s News team Breech Plug allow you to this QR Code with and why we have been hunt- Scan quickly and easily remove your smart phone to view ing exclusively with them for t h e S p o r t s m a n ' s N e w s fouling and lube your barrel YouTube Channel. Video as well as to easily unload the past 10 years.

Available after August 9th.

For those who live in Orthe gun.

C

V2

V2

Not only does CVA have the best barrels in the business, their triggers are amazingly crisp with absolutely zero creep. They are easily adjustable with just the turn of a screw behind the trigger guard. The Accura V2 comes with either 416 steel or with a nitride coated barrel for even more protection against the elements. Its fully ambidextrous polymer stock is available with a traditional comb or a thumbhole grip. It ships standard with a Crushzone butt pad to reduce felt recoil. It also comes with Quake Industries’ The Claw rifle strap so it will stay exactly where you put it on your shoulder or pack.

The Accura V2 comes with Realtree APG HD camo on the stock and sling, which is a great pattern for the Northwest woods. The Accura V2 includes a polymer palm saver, brass bullet seater, primer capper tool, and is tapped for a scope. V2 models also include fiber optic sights.

Northwest versions of CVA muzzleloaders are available for the Accura V2, the Optima V2, and the Wolf.

When your once-in-a-lifetime shot comes, make sure you are trusting the finest barrel, the highest quality worksmanship, and precision engineering to get the job done. Trust a CVA Accura V2.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

31

32

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Trail Cameras For The Upcoming Season

By Mike Deming

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rail cameras, game cameras, or whatever name you have for these handy dandy little devices have changed the way many of us approach hunting. For me, it extends the season and builds the excitement of the upcoming hunt. There is nothing like the feeling of scanning through the pictures on your trail camera and realizing the animal of your dreams is frequenting you area. It’s even better when you have a tag for the upcoming season.

We start putting out trail camera’s in early June each and every year. This practice not only gets you photos of the critters in your area, but it starts getting you in shape. It is so much more exciting to hike seven or eight miles to check your camera than to head to the gym. This hiking also gets you very familiar with the roads, trails, water sources, feeding areas, and escape routes in the area. So, getting involved with the use of trail cameras has many benefits.

Here in Utah, it is legal to use feed or attractant to get the animals into your site where your camera is hung, so we use these resources. Each and every state is different with their laws on trail cameras, feed, time of year when they can and can’t be used, and various other regulations. So, make sure you check your states regulations prior to hanging that first camera.

The next step is to figure out what sort of camera you want to purchase. This is a very big decision and comes with numerous options and pricetags. It is pretty much common practice that the more expensive the camera, the better and more features it will have. Once you have started using a camera, you will have an idea of what features are most important to you. One example is trigger speed. If you are putting the camera on a trail with no feed or supplements to slow down the animal, you will need a camera with a fast trigger speed. If you are setting your camera on a waterhole where an animal will likely spend several minutes, trigger speed isn’t as important.

How far away will movement trigger the camera to take a picture is another big question. Nothing worse

than setting up your camera in a good area only to realize that it didn’t capture any photos or video. We have put all of the best units available at Sportsman’s Warehouse here in one location for you to review. We have tested some of the most important things like picture quality, flash distance, and trigger speed, to help you with your decision making process and here is what we found. We didn’t put together any scientific equipment from NASA to capture any of this information, just quality afield testing just like all of you hard core users would do. One test we did to simulate a walking animals is put the camera’s at a set location and walk by at distances of 20’ out to 70’ to see if the camera would pick up our movement and take one or multiple photos while we were still in the frame. If the camera performs well at this, we don’t usually have problems with game.

at timed intervals without the need to trigger it to take photos. This is ideal for those fields or big meadows during morning and evening timeframes. This camera is completely weatherproof and since we have used this camera personally for several years, we know what it’s capable of. We have left a camera in the field for nearly a year and returned with batteries still active and still taking photos. Bushnell has proven to build a very dependable camera at a very good price.

Bushnell Trophy Cam image at 30 feet

Bushnell Trophy Cam HD This camera is newly designed and has new latch system as well as a removable anti-reflection cover for the LEDs to minimize visibility to game and other hunters. It also has no glow black LED’s eliminating the flash when a picture is taken. These two things are very important if you happen to be putting your cameras on public land and theft is an issue. This camera is very compact and a big selling point in the

Bushnell Trophy Cam Bushnell Trophy Cam This would be the Bushnell entry level camera. This camera is very small and compact with everything you need to get started taking photos up to 6 MP and standard definition video in your hunt area. It operates off of 8 AA batteries and will hold a memory card of up to 32GB. It has 32 LED’s for your night vision flash which will reach out to 60’. Trigger speed on this unit is .8 seconds, and we did capture photos out to 30ft with a walking test, but nothing was captured out past this distance. Each picture taken will be stamped with the date, time, and the temperature.

Field scan mode is also an option with this camera which gives you the ability to set your camera to take photos of an entire area

Bushnell Trophy Cam HD

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

Bushnell line of cameras. It will take photos in either 3, 5, or 8 megapixels as well as snap 1, 2, or 3 photos simultaneously. If you would rather shoot video with your camera, this HD camera can take full 1280X720 high definition video. If this is your desire, we recommend using a full 32GB memory card with 10 speed to get best results. If you just can’t make up your mind about taking photos or video, this camera is equipped with a hybrid capture feature which allows you to capture both with each click of the trigger. The .2 second trigger speed on this camera makes it ideal for every

Bushnell Trophy Cam HD image at 50 feet

GET A $30 MAIL-IN REBATE ON THE BUSHNELL TROPHY CAM HD (119537C) AUG. 1ST – SEPT. 30 TH, 2014

situation and the testing backed it up. We captured multiple images when walking at the 50’ mark making this the best camera of all the testing. Time in between triggers can be set from one second out to 60 minutes.

All of your photos will be stamped with time, date, temperature, moon phase, and the camera’s name. As with the entry level Bushnell camera, it is equipped with field scan mode. The flash mode on this camera can be adjusted up or down to get the most distance or to conserve batteries depending on your situation.

This unit is also equipped with the ability to hook up to a solar panel for extended trips to the woods without worrying about your batteries. Unit can be attached to a tree with the enclosed strap or mounted on a tripod through the threaded mount on the bottom of the housing.

Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Wireless The latest and greatest from Bushnell is the new wireless trophy cam. Maybe you have seen the commercials about the woods longer calls, it texts. That is correct, the wireless service provided by AT&T gives this camera the ability to text you a thumbnail photo to your iphone or android systems once you have downloaded the free app. The first thirty days comes with an unlimited amount of thumbnail images you

REGULAR PRICE LESS SAVINGS PRICE AFTER MAIL-IN REBATE

$229.99 -$ 30.00 $ 199.99

33

can receive and the system is very easy to set up. Once your initial thirty days have expired, you can pick a program that that fits your data needs. The monthly economy plan allows you to receive 1000 thumbnails for $9.99 which requires no contracts since this service it provided through Bushnell. The thumbnails are great to get an idea of what you have on camera, but you just might want to enlarge that thumbnail to full sized photos. You can buy per high resolution image downloads for $.99 each or up to 25 for $16.99.

This is a great resource when your trail cameras are at least a full tank of fuel away or in some cases, a few states. The coverage area through AT&T is very broad and will likely work in your area, but a visit to the Bushnell website will show you exact coverage area. The wireless feature is excellent and saves tons of time, money, and fuel and is worth every penny of the $599.99 pricetag. The camera itself is one of the best Bushnell puts out as well with many of the same features as the Trophy Cam HD. It will take photos in either 3, 5, or 8 megapixels as well as snap 1, 2, or 3 photos simultaneously. You can shoot full 1280X720 high definition video. This camera is also equipped with the hybrid capture feature which allows you to capture both video and still images with each activation of the trigger. Bushnell claims to have a .6 second trigger speed is on this camera, but our testing didn’t continued on page 34

AVAILABLE AT

34

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

GAME CAMERAS

come close to that unless you were inside of 10’. Trigger time was more like 1.5 seconds and recovery time in between pictures is much more significant at the 20’ and beyond distance. All of your photos will be stamped with time, date, temperature, moon phase, and the camera’s name. It is equipped with field scan mode. The flash mode on this camera can be adjusted up or down to get the most distance or to conserve batteries depending on your situation. Runs on 4 to 12 AA batteries. It can also be connected to solar panels to extend your battery life. This camera and its’ wireless capabilities makes it a great camera for a waterhole or food source that you can put the camera very close to the action and when the animal will be there for a while.

continued from page 33

Bushnell Trophy Cam HD Wireless

6MP

Browning Strike Force Sub Micro Camera Truly the smallest trail camera on the market at 4.5” high and 3.5” wide and loaded with quality features. Has the caBrowning Strike Force Sub Micro pabilities of taking four different quality of photos with the highest being ultrahigh at 10 megapixels. The trigger speed of this camera is taken during one trigger can be as little as one or .67 seconds and it captured images out to 50’ on our up to 8 multiple shots. You also have the ability to walking test. It operates on 6 AA batteries and fully take 6 rapid shots which take place in a matter of loaded with batteries 2 seconds. High definition video can be taken with and SD card, it weighs in audio and adjusted to record from 5 seconds out at 15.9 ounces making it to 2 minutes. All photos and video will be stored an ideal camera for those on an SD card which isn’t included. The Browning e x t re m e b a c k c o u n t r y camera will support cards from 4-32 GB’s. Photos trips when weight is an have the option of being stamped with the time, issue. It can also sup- date, moon phase, temperature, and camera ID or port 12 volt power from being totally turned off. The motion test feature in ® an external source. This this camera gives you the ability to aim the camera. camera has some very unique options as far as taking photos. Photos and video are the norm • 6 Month Battery Life with most camera’s and • IR LED Night Vision this one does that as well, • Compact Size but also has the ability to do time lapse and time lapse plus. The time lapse can be adjusted to Strike Force Sub Micro at 50 feet take photos for several hours or all day. Special software is included with It turns on a red light on the front of the camera your camera purchase and whenever motion is detected, this red light will to be able to view this flash. This will allow you to quickly check your timelapse photography. camera to make sure it captures photos where you The timelapse option is want them taken. The IR illumination touts 100 feet good for taking photos of of illumination, but we were only able to get photos AVAILABLE AT large areas where an ani- about 85’ as long as something closer triggered it. mal might not be close Comes with a tripod mount hole and a 1” nylon enough to set the trigger strap for securing to trees. We really like the way to take a photo. This is this strap secures and releases as well. It will also very similar to Bush- accommodate a 5/16” python cable lock to deter nell’s field scan mode. thieves. For the price, one of the best camera’s on Number of photos to be the market.

WHITETAIL

Trail Camera

$99.99

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

Browning Dark Ops Sub Micro Browning Dark Ops Sub Micro Camera This camera is nearly the same one with same features as the strike force, but with the addition of black out IR LED’s.

This upgrade is worth the few extra dollars if you are putting cameras on public land and are trying to minimalize the theft of your cameras. In our testing, elk and mule deer didn’t show much different of patterns with blacked out LED’s as opposed to the traditional flash. However, some conversations with hard core whitetail enthusiasts showed nearly double the activity in areas where black out LED’s were used. The blackout LED’s also reduce the amount of flash and distance can take photos at. Photos taken with the Dark Ops unit were capped at about 60’ instead of the 85’ from the Strike Force model. On the time and date stamp, this model also has the addition of the barometric pressure which is great for helping to predict movement and patterns of animals based on the weather.

Browning Range Ops This camera is slightly larger than the sub micro camera’s, but still extremely small at 5” high by 4” wide. There are four different qualities of pictures to choose from ranging from 1.3 MP up to ultra at 8 MP. There are 30 flash night IR LED’s which give you a range of 50 ft. Trigger speed on this camera is about .7 seconds and captured movement out to 30 feet in our walking test, but nothing past that distance. This camera operates on 8 AA batteries, but can also hook up to a 12 volt external power source.

Camera also has the ability to take standard and high definition videos with audio. As with the other Browning models, this camera can take timelapse photos as well as work off of the timelapse plus mode which allows you to take regular timelapse photos, but will also trigger when motion is detected. Camera can also be set to take up to 8 images when triggered with a 2.1 second recovery time.

You can also take 4 rapid fire photos within 2 seconds.

Some of the photos taken with this camera in lower light situations tended to be not as good of quality as the other Browning models tested. The case on this camera blends in extremely well on darker trees. This camera has two clips

Browning Range Ops to keep it closed and are very tight requiring you to push extremely hard on the face to open or close the unit. This didn’t pose a problem, but it wasn’t thirty degrees during our testing. The 6’ long 1” Nylon strap with metal buckle is ideal for mounting on nearly any sized tree. This camera also has 5/16 Python cable bracket on the back to help deter thieves, but the cable must be purchased separately.

Browning Recon Force This camera is nearly identical to the Range Ops

ELR B A L GEA K C L AICA OT BL T ST GER. C A T JU GHT NG I BRIODUC A.L C R I T T IN TAC HTS LIG

Browning Recon Force

BROWNING.COM continued on page 36

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

GAME CAMERAS continued from page 35

model, but with a few upgrades. The most important one we saw is a better quality camera since the photos were significantly better. The highest setting on this camera for quality is 10 MP, but even the 1.3 MP lowest settings were better photos than the Range Ops highest quality making it worth the extra dollars for the upgrade. The night IR flash provided us coverage out to 60’, and the trigger speed and capture of images was identical to the Range ops model. The case on this camera is lighter in color and works very well in the western terrain.

Browning Spec Ops This is Browning’s top of the line camera. This camera has a 2” viewfinder to view pictures as well as a menu driven setup for the camera. This camera and all the Browning cameras have been very simple to set up and we were able to flow the menus without ever reading the instructions. (what man wants to do that?) One additional upgrade with this camera is the blackout IR illumination. The 39 blackout IR LEDs provide great coverage out to nearly 70’. Trigger speeds and capture of the moving objects in the walking test didn’t fare much differently. The other addition is a barometric pressure stamp on the image. This camera takes up to 6 rapid fire photos in 2

seconds and has a 10 MP highest setting on the camera. It has all the other features that we have already mentioned in the Browning line, so this camera is very well rounded and lacks nothing. The quality of photos with this camera are excellent and as long as

Browning Spec Ops image at 20 feet you have realistic expectations of capture distances and use it accordingly, you will be extremely happy with not only this camera, but all of the Browning line of cameras.

Browning Spec Ops

Sealth Cam E28 The Stealth Cam models roll in with a very compact camera and the E28 is only 3” wide by 5” high. It works off of 8 AA batteries. It can also be powered by an external 12V battery setup (sold separately). Photos and videos are stored on an SD card of between 2 and 32 GB of memory. The directions recommend a class 10 memory card which gives you quality video, but you can get away with a class 4 if pictures is your only desire. This camera has numerous functions and setting it up continued on page 38

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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37

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

gave us good photos into the 70 foot range. We were able to get multiple photos at the 40’ range in our walking test with top notch photos. The housing on this unit is extremely durable and we like the way the lock secures the system. You can secure the unit to a tree with the 1.5” nylon strap which is included or with a phython cable to deter thieves. However, this unit doesn’t have a tripod mounting screw. The quality of photos and video with this unit were extremely good.

Stealth Cam E28

be significantly faster and reduces blur. You can also set the camera to standard in this mode and gain additional distance on your shots. As with the other Stealth Cam, images and video is recorded onto an SD card which has a memory of 2 to 64 GB and class 10 card is recommended. Photos have the ability to be stamped with time, date, and temperature. You can also set the latitude and longitude of this camera for future geotagging. This information is not stored on the picture itself giving away your secret spot, but is stored in the metadata which could be essential in the future when seeing where a picture came from. This camera also has a security key function which allows you to program a 4 digital alphanumeric code which keeps anyone from changing your settings. This camera has quickset predetermined at the factory just like the E28 model, but with an additional one included video to be shot at 720HD with audio, 30 second timeout delay, and 10 second intervals of video. You can secure the unit to a tree with the 1.5” nylon strap which is included or with a python cable that easily fits through the housing. This unit is equipped with a tripod mount.

GAME CAMERAS continued from page 36

will require the use of the owner ’s manual. There are several different modes for this camera to include, test, off, preset A, preset B, and manual.

The test mode is designed to help you aim your camera and make sure it picks up movement at the correct spot. Preset A is a quicksetting which provides a 7 MP picture, 30 second timeout delay between photos, and takes a 3 photo burst with every trigger. Preset B takes 7 MP photos, 30 second timeout delay, and 6 photo burst with each trigger. Manual is the last setting and is predetermined by the owner when doing setup which can be altered as needed. Photos can be in bursts of 1-9 photos and time out before the next picture can be taken is from 5 seconds out to 55 minutes.

There are 3 different resolutions of photos which are determined by stars. 1 star is 1.3 MP, 2 stars is 3 MP, and 3 stars is 7 MP. This camera is also equipped with a timelapse feature allowing you to take pictures of a large area at predetermined times without the need to trigger the camera.

720P high definition video can be taken with this camera and set to take intervals of video from 5 seconds up to 5 minutes. The 28 IR flash emitters

Stealth Cam E28 image at 40 feet

Stealth Cam G42NG Stealth Cam G42NG This camera is slightly larger than the E28 model and has a little different case as well. It is 5.5” high by 4” wide. It is powered by 8 AA batteries or an external 12 volt system (sold separately). It comes with 42 NO GLO infrared LED’s which provide great quality night photos. It has a trigger speed of less than a half a second making it one of the very best on the market and it capture good photos which were very similar to the E32 model, however the recovery time isn’t very good with this giving us only a single photo at 40’ instead of multiples. Recovery time is in excess of a half a second, but the picture quality is very good. It has the ability to adjust from 5 different photo quality settings from .5 MP all the way out to 10 MP. It will also capture 720X480 HD video with audio and can be adjusted in intervals from 10 seconds up to 3 minutes of recording time. Timelapse is another option available with this camera. This camera allows you to adjust the delay in between triggers as well.

These timeframes go from five seconds to 59 minutes giving you a lot of versatility. The reduced blur setting is ideal when you will have you camera set in an area where you plan on getting mostly night photos and fairly close up. This allows the shutter speed to

Moultrie A-5 Moultrie A-5 This is a very basic camera and very simple to set up with limited options. It is designed this way for the price conscious consumer. This camera runs less than $100 bucks. It operates off of 4-C cell batteries or 12 volt external power source. All images are stored on an SD card which can be between 2 and 32 GB. This camera is a little larger than most of the other test models being 7” high by 6” wide. It has 12 low-glow Nighttime IR LED’s which provides the ability to take nighttime photos, but they will be limited and marginal quality unless they are extremely close up. Images out to about 30 feet are about what you would expect. It has a trigger speed of just over 1 second which is pretty good for this price

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

range and will work great at a feeder or water hole, but not your best choice for putting it on a trail. We were able to capture one singe photo at the far edge of our field of view at 20’ during our walking test. Recovery time to be able to take the next photo is over one minute, but for this same reason it is ideal for a feeder when you don’t want a thousand photos from one night. You can program the delay to be 1, 5, 10, or 30 minutes. Camera will take a 5 MP photo or can be adjusted to take a low resolution photo which is about .5 mb. It can also be switched to take standard definition video. Comes with a great 1” wide nylon strap for mounting as well as tripod screw. This camera is very basic and will get the job done within its limits. It is an ideal camera for those of you

Moultrie A-5 image at 20 feet

who haven’t embraced the technology world and just want a few buttons and the ability to take some photos.

It’s a good camera for the price.

Moultrie M-550

39

Moultrie M-550 This camera is very small and only 5” high by 4” wide. It operates on 8 AA batteries or an external 12V system. It has 20 Low-Glow nighttime IR LEDs which provides good quality night photos at a range out to about 40 ft. It has the capability of capturing photos or video via motion detection, time lapse, or a combination of motion and time lapse. It can capture photos with 4 different quality settings; .3, 2, 4, and 7 MP. The trigger speed on this camera is right at 1 second which is better than what is advertised, but didn’t perform very well in our walking test. We captured no photos out past 20’ during daylight hours.

It also has the ability to capture standard definition video and can be set to capture video in 5, 10, 30, 60, or 90 second increments. Motion freeze allows the shutter to be controlled for better quality of photos at night. This works well at closer ranges and limits the distance on you nighttime shots. Time, date, name of camera, and temperature can be imprinted onto each and every image or totally turned off. This unit also has the ability to program a 5 digit security code which will keep others from adjusting your settings. It can be secure to the tree by the 1” nylon strap or mounted on a tripod. The rear of the housing is preformed to accept a python cable to deter thieves. continued on page 40

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

GAME CAMERAS continued from page 39

cable to secure your camera and the hole where a lock can be placed is very large allowing for a very good sized lock. The 1’ nylon strap is light in color as well as the Moultrie camouflage on the housing which helps this camera blend in very well.

Moultrie M-990i Moultrie M-990i This compact camera has a 2” viewer which makes the setup menu on this Moultrie camera very user friendly. This No-Glow Nighttime IR camera takes excellent pictures in the dark and the 10 MP stills during the daylight are some of the best in the bunch. Usually the cameras claims of distance of nighttime photos are a few feet overstated based on our testing, but the 70 foot claim with the M-990i were right on the money as long as something closer triggered the photo. Trigger speed is 1 second making it slow with our walking test and only setting off the trigger at 30’, but when using it at a water hole or feeding source, there is no complaints. Camera has the ability to take photos in four different picture qualities as well as standard and high definition video. Video can be taken with or without sound.

Videos can be adjusted to record from 5 seconds out to 90 seconds. This camera can be set up into three different modes to capture photos or video.

Motion detect is the first mode which takes photos or video whenever motion is detected. Time Lapse mode will allow you to program the camera for 1 or 2 sessions during each day. The time lapse can be adjusted to take photos from 10 seconds to once every 24 hours and everything in between. The last setup is a combination of motion and time lapse.

Each photo can be time, date, temperature, moon phase, barometric pressure, and name stamped.

Photos can be set to take between 1 and 3 photos with each trigger as well as burst shooting taking 3 pictures per second. Photos are stored on an SD card of between 2 and 32GB. This camera has the ability to set a password that is alphanumeric which allows only the user to make adjustments to the camera’s settings. The molded housing supports a python

hybrid mode which will perform time lapse during the day and motion detected photos at night. Photos can be taken with five different qualities with the top one being 8 MP. Photo delay can be set from 5 seconds out to 60 minutes. This camera has many options with your photo capture as well. 2 shot or 3 shot standard, which will take these photos with a several second delay between photos. 2, 3, or 4 shot fast will take the predetermined number of photos in a couple of seconds. Trigger speed is just less than 1 second and did extremely well in our walking test. We got multiple photos at each distance out to 40’ and one photo at 50’ making it one of the better cameras in this test. Each picture can be stamped with the time, date, temperature, moon phase, and camera name. You can also program the latitude and longitude with this camera for use with geotagging.

This information isn’t printed on the picture, but it is in the metadata which can be used by thieves or someone looking to find out where you are hunting.

Because of the capabilities of this camera, it is a bit larger than most on the market today, but well worth it based on our testing. It operates off of 6 C cell batteries, but can also operate on external 12V source.

It has a tripod mount and a 1” nylon strap included for mounting purposes. The rear of the housing is premolded to accept a phython locking cable.

Moultrie Panoramic 15i Moultrie Panoramic 150i This camera is very unique in its ability to make a 150 degree photo. It takes three different photos and then combines it into one making this camera ideal for anyone looking to use their camera to capture very open spaces. This camera is very versatile and packs all the same features from a regular trail camera. You can take regular photos with this camera and still have the ability of viewing the 150 degrees.

Once motion is detected, the camera will move to the left, center, or right position and snap the photo.

This camera also has the ability of taking video in standard definition of 848X480 and shot at 24 fps or high definition of 1280x720 and also at 24 frames per second. Time lapse mode is also available with this camera which detects sunrise and sunset once it has been in the field for a full day. It will capture photos at predetermined times from 15 minutes before sunrise to 15 minutes after sunset. It also has a

Moultrie Panoramic 15i image at 40 feet

Primos Truth EL Blackout Primos Truth EL Blackout For those of you that consider yourself technologically challenged, this camera is for you. From a digital standpoint, if you can set your watch, you can handle this camera.

Once you’ve installed the 8 AA batteries, insert an SD card of between 2 and 32 GB, and set the time, you can be off and running in seconds. All of the menu items are selected from

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

Primos Truth EL Blackout image at 50 feet switches inside the camera. Since there are only 3 of them, there are very limited choices, but I know from years of experience that this type of simplicity has a good following. You have the option of taking photos, video, time lapse, or time lapse and photos. Photos have two settings; hi and low resolution. Video is either high def or standard. Time lapse takes photos or video all day based on the interval of time you select, but this does become a draw on the battery since most of the middle of the day is usually wasted time. You can also select the amount of delay between photos from Trail Camera Review Brand

Model

Megapixels

Bushnell

Trophy Cam

6 MP

Bushnell

Trophy Cam HD Wiereless

5 seconds out to 30 minutes.

The one second trigger speed is fairly accurate and the 35 feet night range of the blackout IR for pictures is p re t t y g o o d a s well. Some of the photos we got during testing were a bit blurry when set up in shaded areas, but the ones taken in the open worked very well. This camera surprised us in the walking test as it captured photos out to 50’. This camera is very compact at only 5” high by 4” wide and has good camouflage on the front which blends into the surroundings very well. It has a tripod mountSimmons 5MP Whitetail ing hole in the bottom and comes with a 1” nylon strap for mounting.

The front of the housing has molded in area Simmons 5 MP Whitetail This camera is extremely small and lightwhich supports a python cable. This camera is probably the best camera on the market when weight. It is 3.5” wide by 5.00’ high and only simplicity is the most important thing. continued on page 42

SD Card Capacity

Viewfinder

32 GB

No

Battery Type

LED Type

Video

Audio

AA- 8

Infrared

Yes

Yes

No Glo Black

Yes

Time Time and Lapse Date Stamp

32 GB

No

8 MP

32 GB

Yes

AA-12

10 MP

32 GB

No

AA-6

Infrared

Dark Ops Sub Micro

10 MP

32 GB

No

AA-6

Browning

Recon Force

10 MP

8 MP

32 GB

No

AA-8

10 MP

32 GB

Yes

AA-8

Stealthcam

E28

7 MP

32 GB

No

AA-8

Infrared

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

C-4

Infrared

Yes-SD

No

No

Yes

AA-8

Infrared

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

No

Yes

Bushnell

Browning Browning Browning Browning

Trophy Cam HD

Strike Force Sub Micro

Range Ops Spec Ops

8 MP

32 GB

No

AA-8

G42NG

10 MP

Moultrie

A-5

5 MP

32 GB

No

M-990i

10 MP

32 GB

Yes

Truth EL Blackout

4 MP

32 GB

No

AA-8

5 MP

32 GB

No

AA-4

Moultrie Moultrie Primos Simmons

M-550

Panoramic 150i

5MP Whitetail

7 MP 8 MP

32 GB 32 GB

No

AA- 8

Stealthcam

Moultrie

64 GB

41

AA-8

No

AA-8

No

C-6

Temperature

Moon Phase

Barometer No

Trigger Speed

Yes

Yes

Yes Yes

Yes

No

No

.8 seconds

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

.6 seconds

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

.7 seconds

No Glo Black

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

.7 seconds

Infrared Infrared

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

.7 seconds

No Glo Black

Yes Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

.7 seconds

Yes

Yes

No

.7 seconds

No

Yes

No

1.1 seconds

Yes

Yes

Yes

1.0 seconds

Yes

Yes

No

1.0 seconds

No

Yes

No

1.2 seconds

No Glo Black

No Glo Black

Infrared No Glo Black No Glo Black No Glo Black

Yes

Yes

Yes Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

No No

Yes

Yes

Yes

No

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes Yes

No

No

No No

.2 seconds

.7 seconds

.5 seconds

1.0 seconds .9 seconds

42

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

GAME CAMERAS continued from page 40

operates on 4 AA batteries which means it is very light even when loaded. The reduction in batteries will limit the amount of time you can take photos without a visit to replace them. This camera is very basic and easy to set up, but with sufficient options to help you with your scouting and is a camera under the hundred dollar mark.

This blackout camera has 18 IR LED’s which take pretty good photos considering it has a trigger speed over one second. Trigger speed is nearly a second and a half, but works well when taking photos on water holes or feed sources. During our walking test, we were able to capture photos out to 20’, but nothing past that would trigger the camera to take a photo. This camera will take either photos or video. Photos can also be set to take 3 photos when triggered as well. Photos capture will be either 2 or 5 MP and video taken will be standard definition. We were able to take nighttime photos out to 30 feet as long as something closer triggered the camera. Overall, this camera is good for the price.

After years of using trail cameras and watching them evolve, we have come to the conclusion that each and every model has limitations. Manu-

f a c t u re s c o n s t a n t l y battle with the ability to make an affordable product to compete with the other guys and we, as consumers, want more with every dollar we spend.

Cameras are a great tool for enjoying the great outdoors without actually having to be there all the time.

T h e y o f t e n p ro v i d e us the glimpse of that trophy of a lifetime that gives us hope and excitement for the upcoming season.

H o w e v e r, t h e y w i l l probably never capt u re e v e r y m o m e n t that we miss by not being there. The cameras have come a very long way and the price has dropped significantly over the past half a dozen years. Regardless of the model you choose based on your preferences or budget, you are going to be in better shape and know a ton more about your upcoming season

than you did if you chose to sit on the couch.

Go enjoy the woods and send us your photos.

The expanded version of this article will be on www.sportsmansnews.com under the articles column where you can view more of the photos we captured during our testing period.

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All Nikon trademarks are the property of Nikon Corporation.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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Big & J Industries BB2 Long Range Attractant

By Michael Deming

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hile hunting whitetails in Kansas with one of our endorsed outfitters nearly a half dozen years ago, I was introduced to Big and J Industries BB2. This was a product that Wes Atkinson of Atkinson Expeditions was using to lure in whitetails to get pictures and video of to see what was available on his leases. I enjoyed visiting the camera sights almost as much as I did hunting since we were able to see so many bucks hitting these spots. In spots where he had used regular grains, there wasn’t nearly as many photos and the same bucks

didn’t frequent those feed sites. So, we chalked it up to the fact that his was really a good product.

After several years of using this product, Wes discovered that his bucks stayed around and grew substantially better antlers where he used this feed/attractant. So, wherever legal, he uses BB2.

I figured that if it worked for whitetails, we might as well give it a shot on the mule deer and elk here in Utah since this type of product is legal to use in our state. My first attempt with the BB2 here in Utah was on a premium limited entry elk hunt. I started hauling the twenty pound bags deep into the mountains where I was seeing good numbers of bulls from a long ways away. I would dump twenty to forty pounds onto the ground and set up a camera and come back to visit those locations after several weeks. Sure enough, the elk loved it just as much as the whitetails in Kansas.

I had one bull that frequented the bait site that would literally lay down at the pile and eat and sleep without ever moving. Another site had absolutely no elk or deer on it when I pulled my cards from the camera, but seven different bears were frequenting the site which made sense why there were not many deer or elk in the area. I’ve since seen numerous bear visits into different BB2 setups. The mule deer come from near and far to enjoy this nutritional supplement as well.

The smell is what brings the animals into this product.

Storing a few extra bags in your garage will tell you just how strong the smell can be with this product. This is truly a long range attractant which packs a lot of nutrition once they get there to start eating it. The contents of a bag of BB2 contains processed grain by-products, grain products, refined soybean oil, sodium tripolyphosphate, calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate and potassium sorbate. Each bag contains at least 18% crude protein, 8% crude fat, 7% crude fiber, .8% calcium, .7% phosphorus, .25% salt and a maximum of .5% sodium.

I’m not a scientist with the ability to break this stuff down and see all the contents, but what I can tell you is that after using it for the past six years, it works on absolutely everything.

So, when you want to get some quality trail camera pictures of the animals in your area and want to have a good chance of keeping them coming back, make sure you pick up a few bags of BB2 by Big and J industries. We utilized it in our shed hunting timeframe this year to keep the animals concentrated into specific areas as well. The results were awesome and we will continue this process in the future.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Vortex Crossfire II Muzzleloader Scope

By Dan Kidder Managing Editor

C

VA makes some of the finest muzzleloaders on the market.

Their quality Bergara barrels bring a marriage of old world craftsmanship with modern technology to produce some of the most accurate and reliably performing barrels anywhere. So accurate, that CVA guarantees they will shoot better than any other barrel on the market.

The CVA Accura V2 has already established itself as a first-rate workhorse for making sure when the opportunity presents itself, you can get the job done.

This is the reason CVA muzzleloaders are the official black powder guns of the Sportsman’s News team and why we have been hunting exclusively with them for the past 10 years.

For those who live in Oregon, Washington, or Idaho, muzzleloader requirements place an extra burden on those who wish to hunt with an in-line muzzleloader. The laws in those states favor traditional style

rifles over more modern breech plug inline systems. To hunt in those states you must have an open breach that is exposed to the elements and have to use a traditional percussion cap or a musket cap for ignition. More reliable 209 shotgun primers are not permitted. To accommodate hunters in those regions, CVA has created their Northwest series of in-line muzzleloaders. While still featuring CVA’s patented Quick-Release Breech Plug for easy removal and cleaning without tools. The break action Accura V2 combined with the Quick-Release Breech Plug allows you to quickly and easily remove fouling from your barrel as well as to easily unload the gun.

Not only does CVA have the best barrels in the business, their triggers are amazingly crisp with absolutely zero creep. They are easily adjustable with just the turn of a screw behind the trigger guard.

The Accura V2’s come with 416 stainless steel and are also available with CVA’s high tech process called nitride. The ni-

triding process, which turns the 416 grade stainless steel a rich matte black color, actually hardens the outer layers of the steel, making it significantly more corrosion resistant and more durable than standard stainless or blued carbon steels.

With muzzleloaders being particularly susceptible to corrosion, the application of this new barrel technology makes their barrels essentially “rust-proof.”

Plus, unlike the painted-on exterior barrel coatings used by some other muzzleloader manufacturers, the Nitriding process protects the outside and the inside of the barrel, and it will never shoot out – even after thousands of shots.

Its fully ambidextrous polymer stock is available with a traditional comb or a thumbhole grip. It ships standard with a Crushzone butt pad to reduce felt recoil. It also comes with Quake

Industries’ The Claw rifle sling so it will stay exactly where you put it on your shoulder or pack.

The Accura V2 comes with Realtree APG HD camo on the stock and sling, which is a great pattern for the Northwest woods. The Accura V2 includes a polymer palm saver on the ramrod, brass bullet seater, primer capper tool, and is tapped for a scope. V2 models also include fiber optic sights.

Northwest versions of CVA muzzleloaders are available for the Accura V2, the Optima V2, and the Wolf.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

SHANE ADAIR

continued from page 14 coefficient, speedy killing, accurate machine with minimum recoil. It also punches paper with extreme accuracy.

This is all done with bonded, tried and tested hunting bullets, not target bullets with over inflated Ballistic Coefficient.

With some real world testing on big game, we just returned home from British Columbia on a bear hunt. We harvested three bears over the 7-foot mark with excellent results. All shots quartering away with full pass through.

One was shot at 125 yards, dropping the bear it in its tracks. Another shot at 300 yards went 10 feet and fell over, with the last one shot at just over 500 yards which went 20ft and fell over dead.

Interesting enough, not a single bear was hit in the heart. Just by true shock and bone crushing power each of these bears were dropped and immediately dead on their feet. These shots were all on camera, soon to be in an upcoming episode of the Sportsman’s News Television DVD line .

Once again, speed kills. With excellent bonded hunting bullets, this is the single most versatile cartridge I have seen. At the closer distances of 300-500 yards, it hits so hard and so fast, it feels like you’re shooting as straight as a string line. Slow and hard has been the way you have killed big animals in the past, but that was because of the lack of good bonded bullets or expanding Barnes bullets. Now that bullets are holding together, throw them fast and watch them work.

Archers figured this out 15 years ago. Shoot a lighter arrow a whole lot faster and watch it penetrate with better blood trails. Aluminum arrows were accurate, just slower and heavier and would not penetrate as far. Once again, SPEED KILLS. We have tested them for penetration and bullet performance in gel as well. We took a 16 inch gel block and 4-inches in from both sides embedded cow femur bones. Then laid out a second gel block behind it for extra testing. We tested at 75 yards to see how the bullets would hold

up and the 129 Nosler pulverized the first bone and traveled to the second bone, slammed into it and bounced back, erupting the middle of the gel block, retaining 30% of its weight. Very impressive. The Barnes 127 grain blew through both bones and through the second gel block and out, not to be recovered. Thirty-two inches of gel and still going. Very impressive, with both at close distances where most bullets going that fast simply blow up on impact.

If you’re in the market for a new rifle or just tired of being beat up by the big bore calibers, this .26 Nosler loaded with Double Tap Ammo is the real deal. It’s the one all around caliber that most North American animals better be real scared of. Your options on rifles are limited, but growing fast, so you will need to be put on a waiting list to get one. This is just the facts at Nosler and most custom gun shops. Brass is a little pricey, but as demand picks up it should drop. If you have questions on ammo available, a rifle or how and where to get one, give me a call. Shane Adair, 435-559-7764 or email to shane@doubletapammo.com This is a caliber that is pretty special and the real deal. Nosler has thought it through and with all of their other great products available, this one stacks right up there with the rest. Get a gun on order and start shooting!

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

The Ruger 10/22 Takedown ®

™

combines all the features and functionality of the 10/22® rifle with the ability to easily separate the barrel/forend and action/buttstock for convenient storage and transportation. The simple reassembly of the barrel and action yields a rock-solid return to zero for consistent, reliable performance. Packed in a rugged, ballistic nylon case (included), the Ruger® 10/22 Takedown™ makes it easy to keep America’s favorite rimfire rifle by your side.

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©2012 Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Tikka T3 Superlite 7MM Rem Mag

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his is where authenticity and legends run together, with history being the root. When it comes to choosing a rifle the choice can be difficult, but there is one company based out of Finland that is well-known for producing quality craftsmanship and durability. That company is Sako Limited. They have a savvy proficiency and ingenious thinking company that attracted great interest from the infamous Beretta Holdings; the world’s oldest continuously operating gun manufacture. This Italian-based firearms house carries the Beretta-family slogan: “500 years. One passion.”

In 2000, Sako became a proud part of Beretta Holding Group, providing a much better reach across the globe. Since then, Sako continues to produce one of the most intelligent accuracies. Always improving their functionality, Sako designed the Tikka T3 as a convenient luxury and unique addition to their gun selection.

The Tikka T3 Superlite 7mm Rem Mag is just that, super light. With a total weight

of only 5.8 pounds, the 7mm gives you the knock down power without the excess weight; ideal for hunts where reduced weight is a priority.

This model is sold exclusively at Sportsman’s Warehouse and comes in a black synthetic stock and fluted barrel. The fluted barrel is cold-hammer forged, a free-floating stainless steel barrel and stainless steel action. All of the metal parts are made of Sako’s high-grade stainless steel, providing durability and protection against corrosion and rust. Shooters that are looking for a durable gun will be impressed with the overall craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The Tikka T3 Superlite has a detachable synthetic magazine for quick and easy removal with just the press of a button that will help to safely unload your gun instead of having to individually eject each round.

Additional magazines are also available for purchase and are extremely light weight as well. The fiberglass stock is reinforced with copolymer to give this gun a solid foundation that’s ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store.

The Tikka name is known for their reliability and accuracy. I took the Tikka T3 Superlite to the range and put it to test to see what all the hype was about. After shooting five rounds, I maintained an impressive grouping. Set up at 100 yards, I had no problem grouping five shots at 1” MOA, exceeding the factory standards that guarantees a three shot 1” MOA out of the box. I was impressed with the trigger and its adjustability ranging from 2-4 pounds depending on your preferences. The bolt action is extremely smooth, making reloading quick and simple. The adjustable trigger provides added stability due to its responsiveness and helps reduce excess movement while squeezing the trigger to remain steady for your shot.

The Tikka T3 7mm Rem Mag offers unmatched accuracy with a solid foundation and impressive ballistics without the excess weight; making those long-range shots capable. The accurate precision combined with ample knock down power for big game is sure to make this gun a favorite for hunters and shooters.

It’s important to have reliable equipment you can trust. Hunting can be one of the most exhilarating experiences one will ever encounter. It’s those memorable thrills that keep us all coming back, in hopes for that one adrenaline racing moment, where five seconds can feel like five minutes; waiting for the perfect shot. It’s these moments when one shot is all you have and that’s why the T3 Superlite is an obvious rifle of choice for precise accuracy.

Shooters that are looking for a durable, luxury gun, will be impressed with the overall craftsmanship and detail of the Tikka T3 Superlite 7mm Rem Mag. Stop by your local Sportsman’s Warehouse to see this exclusive gun for yourself!

Beginning August 1, 2014 and running through September 30th, 2014, Tikka will be offering a FREE Rifle Soft Case ($59 Retail Value) with the purchase of any new qualifying Tikka rifle via on-line redemption.

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

WHAT A TIKKA HUNTER SEES FROM

www.berettausa.com

Harness the legendary heritage and craftsmanship of Sako with a Tikka T3 and you’ll never look at hunting the same way again. Designed and crafted from the finest, most durable materials, a Tikka by Sako will take your accuracy to a whole new level.

Tikka T3 Lite Stainless

BG_RifleShooter_TikkaT3.indd

1

2/25/11

10:29:11 AM

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

MR. FIRST TIME continued from page 5

the scope, up the front leg as coached by Christo. As I settled in about half-way up the body, I touched-off the round and the bull bucked. He ran about 40 yards before toppling over.

The sounds and smells of Africa around the fire along with a delicious steak brought the rewarding day to an end. The next morning, we left to drive to Christo’s ranch in the mountainous area further south. The mountains and views were spectacular! Another roaring fire, more companionship with interesting conversation, and another great dinner rounded the day off perfectly.

The following morning we had a leisurely breakfast and drove to a ranch to hunt Blue Wildebeest. I always heard them referred to as the poor man’s buffalo, and that proved to be true. The .375 H & H was not too much gun for this animal. My first shot was a “double lung” shot, but it took two more hits to put it down. It was a very tough animal, and big, but I was quite happy to finally get the biggest bull Christo has ever seen!

The next day we relaxed, rested and reflected on all the adventure we had experienced. The following day we saddled the horses and rode up into the mountains high above Christo’s ranch. Christo said he had been seeing free-ranging Eland in the mountains but we probably only had a 20% chance of

actually getting one. An Eland was not in “my package” but I said I would take one if the opportunity arose. A couple of hours later I was looking downhill through the scope at a massive bull at 210 yards. A couple of extra shots (for insurance) and the huge Eland was posed for pictures.

Later in the afternoon on our trip back to the ranch we spotted a herd of Black Wildebeest. One shot at 191 yards dropped the bull where he was standing and I added another trophy to my collection, and more skinning work for Tyron.

The only animal left on my list was a Blesbok. So the next day it was back in the saddle and onto the mountain tops in search for our animal. Today, it was only myself and Christo, and we had a great “mountain man” day hunting, seeing Jackals, Zebra, Eland, Reedbuck, and Black Wildebeest, but we never located a Blesbok (leaving something for next time)!

The last day of my trip we traveled to the taxidermist and on to the airport where Christo and Tyron made sure I made it safely to the plane. Christo even called me a few days later to make sure I made it home okay.

When I initially confirmed and scheduled the trip, I told Christo my primary goal was to have a good time. I shot all the animals I wanted (except for that Blesbok), experienced a thrilling adventure, and enjoyed good weather all week. Everything I ate was good, and the companionship was wonderful. I

The view from the mountains like the variety of locations we visited, the large numbers of animals we saw, and the variety of animals we encountered. Although I was unsure initially, I picked the right outfitter and the right

hunting package for me. I am so glad I finally did this; the only problem now is everyone says your first safari is just that, your first safari, and that you will have to go back!

World Class Moose/Black Bear/Wolf/Fishing Combo Trip This area of Canada has one of the highest population of moose and black bear in North America and our success rates are phenomenal!

Dates: September 27-October 4, 2014 or October 4-11, 2014 .

7-days of hunting, accommodations, meals, 1 on 1 guiding, trophy prep and roundtrip airfare from Thompson, Manitoba, Canada.

Limited space available. Call and ask about the special Sportsman's News Exclusive Discount pricing for this fall.

Huge Eland, on horseback.

Contact: Big Sand Lake Lodge 800-348-5824 or email bignortherns@gmail.com

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

Take it hiking. Take it hunting. Take it on the water. Montana™ 650t features a bold 4-inch color touchscreen display with dual orientation capabilities. Preloaded 100K TOPO maps come standard, plus support for multiple mapping options like BirdsEye Satellite Imagery and BlueChart® g2 (each sold separately). Montana packs a 3-axis tilt-compensated compass, barometric altimeter, and a 5-megapixel camera to boot. Buy the power mount and City Navigator® and it’ll give you spoken turn-by-turn driving directions. It’s big. It’s versatile.

It’s tough. It earned the name Montana – the ultimate in touchscreen toughness.

www.garmin.com NASDAQ GRMN ©2012 Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries

Sportsman’s Warehouse: America’s Premier Hunting, Fishing & Camping Outfitter www.sportsmanswarehouse.com

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

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Glacier Bay Eagles Nest Lodge is truly one of the highest quality and best fishing experiences Alaska has to offer.

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August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

There’s Something About A Truck

Chad LaChance

T

here’s something about a truck.

Beyond the functional utility, there’s just something that having a truck adds to your life experiences. I’ve always – literally always, as in my entire driving life – driven trucks. I commute in them, play in them, customize them, and generally have truck time as part of daily life. To say my truck is important to me would be a severe understatement.

My truck is the single most important piece of fishing equipment I have, period. Not the Ranger boat; she’s too heavy to drag. Not the kayak; can only drag that thing so far. Sure I could walk someplace to fish, but that’s way limiting. Yes, more than any rod, reel, sonar, or lure, the truck is pivotal in us catching fish. After all, you just can’t catch ‘em on the couch.

I know, you’re thinking “this is a fishing column, why are you talking trucks?” Valid question, to which I answer that it’s always the Fishful Thinker goal to help you catch more fish. More fish are caught when you fish more, and you fish more when you have a more

competent truck to get you out there in any condition that you desire to go. As a professional fisherman, we do just that, a lot. Conditions are a side note; we’re going fishing.

Last month I surpassed 400,000 miles in Toyota Tundras. Been driving them since 2002. That’s 33,000+ miles per year, and I’m based in Colorado. We have high plains, a few, umm, hills, and of course four seasons, sometimes all in the same day. From highways to two-tracks, our truck sees it all, most often while hauling a load. We fish, hunt, and film 26 TV shows per year with the truck as our base camp. We take it seriously. So what have we learned about trucks in all that experience? Here goes: There is no substitute for drivetrain performance. “Performance” is a strong motor mated to a quality transmission that is tuned for towing. In the mountains, that means torque and an automatic transmission with descent assist and tow-haul mode that can be driven in manual mode, too. It means huge disc brakes all the way around, beefy driveshafts, and balanced spring and dampening rates that handle loads and corners, all at the same time. A point that is often lost in drivetrain evaluation is turning radius; try snaking a 21’ boat into a tight spot and you’ll see what I’m saying. Performance also includes reliability; a big ol’ radiator and a transmission cooler are required. Big alternator helps, too.

Those are items a modern truck has to have to do any serious hauling or towing in the Mountain West. Here’s a couple of features we’ve grown especially fond of and use a bunch. First is an integrated back-up camera. Wanna hitch and go solo, in a snap? The camera makes it easy. Along those lines, we’re so accustomed to in-dash navigation systems that I don’t know how we ever

got around with out it. Mine has hundreds of waypoint, lot’s of programmed destinations, and the location of every Sportsman’s Warehouse in our region, you know, just in case we need some last minute tackle. Geez, I even mark waypoints at my favorite river pull-outs, glassing spots and the like, so they can be found in the pre-dawn hours.

Speaking of pre-dawn darkness, we’ve modified all our trucks over the years to help with their utility, and lighting is one of the first things we add. My current truck is equipped with Rigid Industries LED lighting front and rear. We installed fog lighting for, well, fog and other wet conditions, along with two major driving light bars for back road use. Many deer and elk have squinted for hours after we spotted them in the train-like beam wayyy ahead of the truck! We also installed a pair of diffused back-up lights into the rear bumper that are switched hot; I can leave them on when the truck is off for hitching in the dark or general use, or set the switch so they come on when in reverse only. Very handy.

In our minds, a pick-up needs a topper. It keeps your stuff dry and secure and can even provide sleeping quarters.

We use a LEER that is carpet lined to prevent condensation and has a slider and opening side windows to air out stinky waders on the ride home. We also utilize a padded bed rug that protects fancy tackle and old knees, plus keeps stuff from sliding around. It can be pulled out easily to accommodate more

rugged loads. One of my all-time favorite modifications are the four tiny LED lights mounted inside the topper roof; I’ve had houses with poorer lighting in the kitchen. The best part is they draw almost no amps; we can leave them on for extended time while working on gear in or around the truck bed. Combined with the aforementioned back-up lighting, we have a great workspace.

Getting back to the drivetrain performance theme, we think upgraded tires, while not part of the factory truck, are just about as important. We always upgrade to all-terrain tread, E load rated tires slightly wider than stock for all surface traction and lateral stability under a load. Wrapping them around light-weight aluminum wheels helps keep unsprung weight in line. A leveling block kit provides a smidge more tire clearance in the wheel wells while maintaining the excellent stock suspension.

Do you really have to have all of this to catch fish? Of course not, and that could be said about almost all of your tackle. But, like your tackle, a well chosen and set-up truck is not only a point of pride, but an integral part of your success. And unlike your tackle, a well set-up and performing truck that gets you to and from the field is also a safety feature. If you’re going to the hills, rain or shine, like most outdoorsmen do, you’ll undoubtedly encounter conditions that make you happy you spent at least as much time thinking about your truck as you do your tackle!

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

Your truck can only take you so far. It’s up to your optics to do the rest.

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SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Digital Edition Only Special Content

Hyundai Santa Fe This AWD crossover SUV for 2014/15 is a top choice for getting away from it all with comfort, style and backcountry performance.

By Andy Lightbody

W

hen the third-generation of Hyundai’s Santa Fe SUV was introduced last year, it immediately drew both auto press and consumer praises for everything from its looks, to performance packages designed for city, highway and back road traveling.

As we enter the end of the 2014 model year, this crossover SUV is going to sport negligible changes when the 2015 models are unveiled.

This means that the 2014 versions are going to provide excellent consumer value/lower prices as dealers will want to wheel-and-deal to make room for the new models. That’s a big plus for saving $$$$$, if you are looking for either the short wheelbase or the longer wheelbase offerings.

For this year and next, the Santa Fe Sport (5-passenger) and the Santa Fe GLS and Limited (7-passenger) models both can be outfitted with all wheel drive (AWD) as an added ben-

efit for sportsmen headed to the hills for some camping, fishing or hunting.

Base version for the Santa Fe lineup is the Sport model SUV with the short wheelbase and designed to seat 5 adults. It comes with a 2.4 liter 4-cylinder engine with a 190 horsepower rating. Only real plus for this engine is a slightly higher fuel economy rating of 20/27 mpg city/highway. Kick it into high gear and we suggest that you may want to opt for the Sport 2.0T that sports a turbocharged 2.0 liter in-line four, that pushes out 264 horses and is a lot more fun to drive

with a fuel rating of 19/24 city/ highway when equipped with the AWD feature.

Punch the accelerator with the turbo with its six-speed auto trans, and the engine is quick, responsive and in our 0-60 mph run, came in right at 8.1 seconds. Overall acceleration is on a par with some V6 engines and was smooth all the way through the gearing. Equally impressive was that the cabin is whisper-quiet once you reach 65-75mph highway speeds!

If you are looking for a little larger Santa Fe, check out the GLS or the

top of the line Limited model. Both sport a slightly longer wheelbase and have a third row of passenger seats that can theoretically accommodate 7 adults. Legroom in that third row is pretty generous at 31.5 inches, but from a practical standpoint, only two “real-size-adults,” will ride comfortably back there. In the powerplant department, the GLS and Limited come only with a six speed auto trans that is coupled to a 3.3 liter V6 engine.

Rated at 18/24 city/highway in the fuel economy category, this engine is surprisingly snappy and can do the

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

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Digital Edition Only Special Content

0-60 mph run in 7.8 seconds.

Both the Sport and the longer GLS/ Limited models sport very contemporary interior and exterior styling.

Unlike some of the other crossover SUVs that have been carried over for too many years, the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup is fresh, attractive and sports lots of standard equipment that is

often a cost-extra accessory/option on other vehicle’s in the same class.

Depending on how you want your Santa Fe Sport outfitted, the standard list begins with a rear spoiler, cruise control, trip computer, AC, Bluetooth phone connectivity, full power accessories keyless entry/ignition, 17-inch alloy wheels and a stylish rear spoiler.

Jump up to the Sport 2.0T and you’ll find all of the above, with the more powerful turbo engine, 19-inch alloy wheels and an upgraded instrument cluster and information display system.

In the Santa Fe Limited that we tested, standard amenities included fog lamps, power liftgate, power driver/ passenger leather upholstery, heated front and second-row seats, roof rack rails, automatic climate control, blind spot warning system, windshield wiper de-icer system, and rearview camera. Only option on the Limited that we could find was Hyundai’s Technology Package that came complete with a large panoramic sunroof, nav system with 8-inch touchscreen, 12-speaker surround sound, and heated steering wheel!

For all of us headed outdoors for a hunting or fishing adventure, being able to pack in all the essential gear is a must. The Sport models, with its 106.3 inch wheelbase has 35.4 cubic

feet of storage room behind the second row of passenger seats. Folded down and flat, that jumps up to 71.5 cubic feet. The 110.2 inch wheelbase GLS/Limited only has 13.5 cubic feet of gear room behind that third row of seats, however when the second and third seats are folded down, you have a cavernous 80 cubic feet of space for gun cases, fishing boxes and all your outdoor or camping gear.

Fun for us that love to leave civilization behind and travel where the pavement ends and dirt begins, the Santa Fe series boasts a respectable 7.3 inches of ground clearance for dirt road/backcountry travel. None of these SUVs are designed for rockcrawling or new-trail brush busting, but dirt and gravel roads and trails were absolutely no problem in our All-Wheel Drive adventures that ranged from 4,000 up to 12,500 on BLM and U.S. Forest Service roads and trails.

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58

SPORTSMAN’S NEWS |August 2014

Digital Edition Only Special Content

Presents Wild Game Recipes of Steve Mayer "The Wine Guy"

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his recipe utilizes two things that go perfectly with Salmon, dill and lemon. Salmon is also one of the best fish to grill. A large king on the end of your line can also teach one of the strength of this great game-fish. Summer is salmon season in the Pacific Northwest and Alaska. So, if you have the opportunity, get up there and have some fun catching this awesome and tasty fish. Go out and catch a few, or head down to your local fishmonger and pull a few out of the case. Gather up some friends and try out this great recipe!

Grilled Dilly Citrus Salmon

Ingredients • • • • • • • • • •

2 pounds Salmon fillets Sea salt and black pepper ¼ cup mayonnaise 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest 1½ teaspoons grated garlic 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 ½ teaspoons dill 2 teaspoons cider vinegar ¼ teaspoon black pepper ½ teaspoon Sriracha Sauce

Preparation Method

I like to use the thicker cuts from the head end of the fish. No disrespect to the tail end, but the thicker, the better for this recipe. Select fillets

that are skin-on as we will be cooking it on the skin over hot coals. Rinse the fish with cold water and pat the fillets dry with paper towels. Season the Salmon with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside to come to room temperature before grilling.

In a medium sized bowl mix together the remaining items into a sauce. Use a whisk to blend it into a nice creamy consistency. One item in the sauce that can be played with is the vinegar. For a more flavorful sauce try some white balsamic vinegar. Use your favorite vinegar for a unique flavor. You can also add more

Sriracha sauce to “kick it up”.

With the skin side down, spread a thin layer of the sauce over the tops of the fillets. This should use about half of the sauce, reserve the other half for serving with the fish at the table.

I recommend using a charcoal fire rather than gas for Salmon, and really prefer to use natural wood such as mesquite or fruit wood. Either way you are looking to crank out some high heat. The cooking time is relatively short. If you are using wood or charcoal, as soon as they are going well you can start, no need to wait for the coals to develop. Once you have the grill producing 400 to 450 degrees clean the grate well and oil with some vegetable oil.

Arrange the fish skin side down on the grill and cover. The salmon does not take long to cook, and there is no need to flip it to cook the other side.

The fish will be done in 5 -12 minutes depending on thickness. An inch thick fillet will cook in approximately 8 minutes.

Do not over- cook! The fish should flake with a fork and still be slightly opaque in the middle with an internal temperature of 135 degrees.

Plate the fish and serve with the remaining sauce. Salmon and a dry Rose’ wine pair perfectly together. I have some incredible California Rose’, as well as other fine wine paired to go with Salmon available at www.wildgamewine. com. Cheers!

August 2014 | SPORTSMAN’S NEWS

59

Digital Edition Only Special Content

Salmon Fishing on the Sacramento River

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almon season on the Sacramento River is underway, with all early indications pointing to a great season. The ocean seems to be loaded with big fish! We are expecting a great run of salmon this year on the Sacramento River with the average weight expected between 15 and 30 pounds. And yes, a 40 pounder is not uncommon. At Mike Bogue’s Guide Service, we are very excited to say the least! Born and raised in Redding and a full time river guide since 1991 (guide license #442), we provide all the bait and tackle you will need for your day on the river. We fish out of a 23 foot North River Scout that is powered by a Yamaha 250Hp outboard motor. This fishing machine comfortably fishes four people.

We use new Lamiglas rods with ambassador 5500 and 5501 reels. The line we

use is only P-line with the main line being #50 braid that is nearly impossible to break off. The leader for fishing flatfish is P-line #40 fluorocarbon. When we are fishing with Pautzke cured roe we use #20 P-line fluorocarbon leader, with size 1/0 Lazor Sharp hooks.

A typical day of salmon fishing with Mike Bogue’s Guide Service starts meeting you at your motel, if you came up the night before, which is the best scenario. You will then follow me to the Balls Ferry boat ramp, about a 15 minute ride. We will then launch the boat and your fishing trip begins. We start the day fishing T55 flatfish with a sardine wrap. Some of my favorite colors of flatfish are silver with chartreuse, gold and chartreuse, silver with a red bill and silver red scale. The early morning is a great time to catch salmon

on flatfish - the bite is unmistakable! I explain the bite to clients like this, “If it feels like something is trying to jerk the rod out of your hands, it is probably a salmon, so set the hook!” After a couple of hours, the salmon tend to start biting roe better than flatfish. We will then switch to rods that are set up to fish with Pautzke cured roe and start back bouncing. The bite on roe is sometimes very subtle, so when you feel anything different while using this technique, set the hook! Both of these techniques are very effective for catching king salmon on the Sacramento River.

The record king salmon caught on the Sacramento is 88 pounds! A few years ago a salmon over 70 pounds was found dead after spawning in Battle Creek, a tributary to the Sacramento River. The largest salmon I have had caught in my boat is 50 pounds, caught

by Clint Arrowsmith. One of the best things about salmon fishing is that you’re only one bite away from a really big one.

At Mike Bogue’s Guide Service we provide all the bait and tackle. We use top of the line equipment provided by great sponsors as I am very proud to be a part of the following companies: Pline, Yakima Bait, Lamiglas Rods, Lorance Electronics, Pautzke Bait and Eagle Claw. All that you need to bring is your California fishing license, whatever you want to eat and drink on the boat and a cooler to transport your catch. We clean or filet your catch and put them in plastic bags for you to transport home.

If you want to experience the thrill of fishing for one of the most powerful species available in the waters of the west coast, give me a call today at 530246-8457.

NEWS |August 2014 60 SW MapSPORTSMANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S Ad_2014 July:Layout 1 7/7/14

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42. Midvale, Utah (801) 567-1000

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43. Provo, Utah (801) 818-2000

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1. Corporate Office Midvale, Utah (801) 566-6681 2. Anchorage, Alaska (907) 644-1400 3. Fairbanks, Alaska (907) 374-8800 4. Soldotna, Alaska (907) 420-3000 5. Wasilla, Alaska (907) 864-8000 6. Mesa, Arizona (480) 558-1111 7. Phoenix, Arizona (623) 516-1400 8. Tucson, Arizona (520) 877-4500 9. Chico, California (530) 897-0500 10. Rancho Cordova, California (916) 635-7800

44. Riverdale, Utah (801) 334-4000 45. St. George, Utah (435) 634-7300

11. Redding, California (530) 222-5500 12. Rocklin, California (916) 782-9900 13. Colorado Springs, Colorado (719) 597-9200 14. Grand Junction, Colorado (970) 243-8100 15. Loveland, Colorado (970) 461-5000 16. Thornton, Colorado (303) 428-6500 17. Idaho Falls, Idaho (208) 542-1900 18. Lewiston, Idaho (208) 743-2000 19. Meridian, Idaho (208) 884-3000 20. Nampa, Idaho (208) 468-7600

21. Pocatello, Idaho (208) 232-3100 22. Twin Falls, Idaho (208) 737-9900 23. Ankeny, Iowa (515) 963-3500

32. Albuquerque, New Mexico (505) 761-9900 33. Farmington, New Mexico (505) 326-2100

46. Vernal, Utah (435) 789-5800 47. Roanoke, Virginia (540) 366-9700 48. Federal Way, Washington (253) 835-4100

34. Bend, Oregon (541) 693-5000

49. Kelso, Washington (360) 423-2600

35. Hillsboro, Oregon (503) 844-9100

50. Kennewick, Washington (509) 736-2200

36. Medford, Oregon (541) 732-3700

26. Bozeman, Montana (406) 586-0100

51. Puyallup, Washington (253) 864-0800

37. Portland, Oregon (503) 777-8700

27. Helena, Montana (406) 457-7200

52. Silverdale, Washington (360) 307-6900

38. Salem, Oregon (503) 589-0800

28. Missoula, Montana (406) 523-9000

53. Vancouver, Washington (360) 604-8000

39. Columbia, South Carolina (803) 731-3000

54. East Wenatchee, Washington (509) 886-7200

30. Las Vegas, Nevada (702) 474-1100

40. Chattanooga, Tennessee (423) 892-6300

55. Casper, Wyoming (307) 233-3700

31. Reno, Nevada (775) 828-1500

41. Logan, Utah (435) 787-1700

24. Lexington, Kentucky (859) 263-7000 25. Southaven, Mississippi (662) 349-5500

29. Carson City, Nevada (775) 884-2100

56. Cheyenne, Wyoming (307) 635-4500