Predator Xtreme. February 2014

A P Ri ulsa e r PA sc N 7 GE o 16 pe 50 !
IN
RRA Predator Pursuit Tested
COYOTE SPECIAL
RING THE RIGHT DINNER BELL COYOTE-HUNTING SCHOOL SOLO CALLING COYDOGS: MYTH OR REAL? SHOOTING MULTIPLES
TREME
PLUS :
OPTICS ROUNDUP!
PAGE 44
INSIDE! PG. 72
SEE ON PAGE 20!
2014 READERS AWARD WINCHOICE NERS
PREDATOR X
Volume 15, Issue 1
62
FEATURES
44 Product Roundup
Optics
By Jace Bauserman
Coyote School
By P. Garrett Leeberg
COLUMNS 6 Letter To The Reader

By Mark Olis Predator Hunting News
DEPARTMENTS Hot Tips 86 Calling In Multiples

By Joe Bradshaw Northwest Colorado Public-Land Coyotes By David Hart
12 Lead Dog
52 Calling All Coyotes

By Geoff Nemnich
88 Passport To Adventure
72 2014 Readers
PREDATOR XTREME
Coydogs: More Myth Than Reality? By Patrick Durkin
22 Inside The Den
Choice Awards
R XTREM E
30 Airgun Advantage Black Guns!

By Jim Chapman Rock River Arms 16-Inch Mid Predator Pursuit By Scott Mayer
R XTREM
36 All About Guns
PREDATO
PREDATO
40 Caller For Hire Solo Song Dogger

By Tom Austin
100 The Last Word Predator Hunting Is Changing. Are You?

By Judd Cooney
Cover Photo: Tim Christie
WWW.PREDATORXTREME.COM FEBRUARY 2014
EDITORIAL
It all started forty ve years ago when I called in my rst coyote. This year is a celebration of my tenth year with Will Primos and Primos Hunting. We teamed up together and began designing predator calls and producing The TRUTH Calling all Coyotes Series DVDs. This video continues our tradition of educating and entertaining through our tactics and antics. Id like to thank the Primos family and all the people that have helped us along the way for ten years of Speaking The Language. 3 HOURS, 50 KILLS Randy Anderson
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LETTER TO THE READER
MARK OLIS
NEW BEGINNINGS
AS A YOUNGSTER, I WOULD SIT IN MY TREESTAND OR ALONG A DIRT ROAD WELL AFTER DARK WAITING ON MY FATHER TO COME PICK ME UP FROM THE EVENING DEER HUNT. My dad was wild about small-game hunting, but once deer season started, he just enjoyed being at the hunt club making improvements on the old trailer we slept in and cooking all of our meals. I, however, enjoyed hunting deer, and since we belonged to a deer-hunting club where small-game hunting wasnt allowed until after deer season, he would wait back at camp until the other members drove in from their evening hunts. That way he didnt risk getting his two-wheel-drive Dodge pickup stuck when pulling off to the side of the narrow dirt roads to pass an outgoing member. Naturally, I was left to sit quietly in the woods all alone for close to an hour after dark. It was during these quiet times that I would hear the yips and howls of coyotes emanating from the nearby thickets as they began their nightly prowls into the prey-rich bottomlands along the Tombigbee River in southwest Alabama. If they were close, I would sit with my rifle and flashlight at ready mostly as a defensive maneuver. A 12-year-olds imagination can definitely get the best of him in the dark woods all alone. It was during these times that I pondered how I might be able to hunt these wild and mysterious critters. No one I knew hunted them only shot them if they walked out during a deer hunt. It would be some years later, during my freshman year at Auburn University, before I would find the answer I was looking for. One afternoon after class, a friend and I watched a predator-hunting video. The guys in the video made it look so fun and easy. Just blow on a call and here they come running! It got us so fired up that we hopped in my truck and drove over to the local sporting goods store, where I bought a wooden Circe rabbit-distress call. We grabbed our camo and deer-hunting rifles and drove 25 minutes south to a hunting lease I belonged to. I had a particular secluded pasture in mind. The woods behind it dropped off into a thick swamp, and I had heard coyotes after dark in the area plenty of times after deer hunting. We managed to talk another buddy into coming with us, and the three of us walked up the hill to the pasture and sat down under a huge oak tree. We were perpendicular to the long pasture and the thick swamp was about 100 yards directly beyond that. I pulled that wooden call out and with my best attempt, blew a mournful chorus for about 30 seconds through the late November air. The sun was still 30 minutes from setting, and about five minutes into my set I blew on the call again. After tucking it back into my jacket, I looked up, and 80 yards straight out from our hide was a big red-furred coyote, sitting with its ears up looking for the ruckus! I whispered to my buddy, Theres one. He said, Where? I said, Im about to shoot. I put the crosshairs of my Nikon scope directly in the center of his chest and squeezed the trigger. The big male dropped, and so began my obsession with calling predators. While my batting average definitely dropped on subsequent hunts, my interest in predator hunting never did. I studied journalism at Auburn with hopes of becoming an outdoor writer for a living. Thanks to veteran outdoor writer J. Wayne Fears, I was given that opportunity right out of college. However, I would have never dreamed of becoming the editor of Predator Xtreme magazine. Im grateful for the opportunity and excited about working with some of the best predator-hunting writers in the world. Im perhaps more excited about hearing from you, the guys who spend their free time in the field, the ones who work to hunt. So shoot me an email (or send a letter) and let me know what articles you would like to see. Also, send in your pics and short articles for our popular From The Readers section. Not only do these articles appear in the pages of PX, but they appear on www.predatorxtreme.com, too. While there, check out all the online-only content and hunting videos. I look forward to serving you with the most entertaining and informational predator-hunting articles available. Our writers are some of the best at their trade. Heck, some of these guys make their living from predator hunting and are eager to share their expertise with you. So dont be shy. Lets hear from you. I cant promise to respond to every email, but I will definitely read them all and take your thoughts into consideration. So heres to many years of sharing predator-hunting stories and knowledge with one another. Oh, and good luck hunting! God Bless,
molis@grandviewmedia.com
LEAD DOG
FROM THE READERS

A BOYS FIRST COYOTE HUNT
Is Hank a huntin dog, dad? asked my 7-year-old son Zack as we motored through the dark to our first set of his first coyote hunt. Hank, our Rhodesian ridgeback, shot me a quizzical glance from the passenger seat, as if he wanted to know, too. Well Zack, I think Hank is more of a cheerleader, I replied. I could feel them both staring at me in the dark of the cab, both with heads cocked slightly. Zack finally asked what both were thinking: Whats that mean? Hank likes to go, but would rather wait in the car and be happy when we get something. Oh, Zack stated flatly, obviously disappointed. We putted down the highway turning towards the Columbia River of central Washington and the sage-covered foothills above. The dirt road held 2 inches of fresh snow and our SUV made crisp lines on the white strips of the two track. I nestled the Blazer into a brushy cubby below the railroad tracks that ran between the sage hills and the river breaks. Soon the sound of invitation howls and then cottontail distress were breaking the quiet of the morning. The next round of crying critter woke Zack from his slumber, as the first coyote broke from the brush 50 yards upwind, then a second. My crosshairs settled on the latter as it darted forward, only to have a third materialize in its place. The crack of the .204 seemed to make number three melt into the tall cheatgrass. The deathly slow tail circles gave away his fate as numbers one and two disappeared back into the sagebrush. My now-wide-awake hunting partner wiggled excitedly. I opened my Savages action and rested it carefully against the bank. Do you want to finish him off? I asked. He handed me his 10/22 as I inserted the magazine from my pocket. With the action closed, we carefully approached the expiring coyote, where Zack made a carefully placed heart shot, followed by elated grins, high fives and hugs. One set of snowy footprints and some drag marks were all that marked the path back to the vehicle, as the smallest hunter walked only on the brisk winter air. Hank met us with a cursory sniff of our quarry and lots of wiggly, wet, warm licks to the face of my happy son. Zane Brock, Washington
Zack proudly poses for a photo with a coyote that he helped his dad get. It was Zacks rst coyote hunt.
Jim Young of Maine uses a bait site to lure in wary coyotes. He got this pair in the same day one early in the morning and the other one at noon.
MAINE YOTES
Up here in Maine we have started hunting coyotes to try help the deer herd. A friend called and said the coyotes were coming up on his deck and howling every night nearby. He was worried about letting his small dog outside. So we set up bait in a backfield across the road (calling is hard here with the thick woods). I took this pair in the same day, one early morning, and the other at noon. This brings my total to eight coyotes Ive shot from this one place. Some were close to 50 pounds. Im glad I got into hunting coyotes, its fun and helps the local deer herd, plus it makes the winter go by faster! Jim Young, Monson, Maine
If you have a predator-hunting tip, a unique picture, or a cool hunting story to tell, we want it. Your story and photo might end up in the pages of Predator Xtreme magazine or online. All submissions must include a picture. Send letters to Mark Olis at P.O. Box 698, Birmingham, AL 35201 or send e-mails to molis@grandviewmedia.com.
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LEAD DOG
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PREDATOR NEWS
Check out www.predatorxtreme.com for the latest predator news FROM...too, where and join the conversation! Become COMMENTS a fan on Facebook, were always talkin hunting, www.facebook.com/GrandViewOutdoors.
CALIFORNIA CITY TO SHOOT PIGS

SAN JOSE, Calif. (AP) San Jose councilmembers have approved a measure that allows residents to shoot wild pigs that have become a nuisance by ripping up lawns and golf course fairways. The San Jose Mercury News reported the council voted 8-3 on Tuesday to permit the shooting that will remain in effect for three months. Councilman Johnny Khamis said its not his intention to commit a pig genocide, but hes concerned the pigs may attack residents. Dozens of the 200-pound pigs have been spotted in south San Jose this fall. Some people have reported thousands of dollars in damage as the pigs try to dig up food under the grass. Those who are thinking about shooting a pig have to obtain a depredation permit from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife.
COMMENTS FROM...
.COM
Yeah, but dont shoot them with a semiautomatic rifle, a rifle with a thumb hole stock, or a magazine holding more than 10 rounds. Also, remember to shoot them in a kind and gentle fashion using lead free bullets. Capn Jack Yep, the sanctimonious tree huggers have a breaking point when it comes to wild animals, dont mess with their lawns or golf courses. Dywlf
COYOTE CULL HELPS ARIZONA ANTELOPE

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) Arizona officials are analyzing the results of government-funded hunt that has killed 669 coyotes in northern Arizona to reduce the predators kills of pronghorn antelope fawns. The state Department of Game and Fish paid $120,000 to have the hunting conducted between 2010 and 2012, the Arizona Daily Sun reported. Most of the hunting was conducted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and most of it was done from aircraft. The hunting has been conducted in an area between the Grand Canyon on the north and Williams on the south and west of State Route 64. The antelope population in the area where hunting was conducted grew several times larger in two years, while there was no change in a nearby area where hunting was not conducted. Brian Wakeling, Game and Fish big game program supervisor, had hoped increased sales of pronghorn hunting permits might produce enough revenue to pay for sustained aerial shooting of coyotes. However, the desire to preserve the pronghorn meant that the large population increase did not dramatically boost the number of hunting permits sold, Wakeling said.
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COYOTE LOTTERY WIN! A PULSAR N750

BEDFORD, Va. (AP) Hunters and trappers can win cash prizes for killing coyotes in Bedford County. The countys coyote lottery began in late October and runs through mid-March. The News & Advance reports that participants receive a lottery entry for each coyote killed. Theres no limit on entries. The top prize is $2,000. Second prize is $1,000, followed by prizes of $500 and $200. A drawing is set for March 15 at noon at Bedfords Central Virginia Community College center. County officials launched the lottery last year. Nearly 100 coyotes were killed. The Pulsar N750 is engineered with the latest advancements in the electronics and optics fields, allowing for easy operation in daytime or complete darkness. Along with exceptional optical characteristics, the riflescope features a quick and effective one-shot zeroing method, offering less time to zero in and little room for error. The N750 also features a high-power digital zoom capable of increasing the magnification from 4.5X to 6.75X. This feature aids during long-range shooting, offering a more precisely placed shot. Maximum detection range of the N750 is 600 meters, also perfect for long-range targets. For more information, visit www.pulsarnv.com. Visit www.grandviewoutdoors.com/contests to enter for your chance to win.
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NEBRASKA SENATOR THREATENS GAME AND PARKS OVER MOUNTAIN LION HUNT
LINCOLN, Neb. (AP) State Sen. Ernie Chambers has warned he will oppose all Nebraska Game and Parks Commission requests of the Legislature in the upcoming 2014 session, as long as the agency allows mountain lions to be hunted. Chambers, of Omaha, issued the warning on November 15 to Roger Kuhn, parks division administrator, the Lincoln Journal Star reported. Kuhn was before the Legislatures Executive Board with two requests to accept donations of land and a playground structure. Any land donation worth more than $10,000 and certain other donations offered between sessions must be approved by the board and others, including the governor. Chambers said he would vote against the requests, because he is upset that the Game and Parks Commission has approved a short, trial mountain lion hunting season for next year. I was told that fears led to the creation of a hunting season for these, what I consider to be regal animals, Chamber said. And these fears were engendered by the possibility or likelihood of these animals eating the grandchildren of Nebraskans. Last year, the Legislature passed a bill that would allow mountain lion hunting, after increased sightings of the animals around the state. At the time, officials estimated there were fewer than 60 mountains lions living in the wild in Nebraska. The Executive Board delayed taking a vote on Kuhns requests, because three board members were absent from the meeting. Chambers told the board that even if it approved the donations, he would offer a motion during the next legislative session beginning in January to undo that approval.
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NEW PRODUCT
FOXPRO is proud to present the FoxJack 3 electronic decoy. The FoxJack 3 is compatible with the FOXPRO SHOCKWAVE. Simply replace your existing battery door with the FoxJack 3, connect the power connector from the decoy to the SHOCKWAVE digital game call and youre ready to go. The FoxJack 3 comes with a bird topper (which resembles a woodpecker) with a whisper-quiet motor. The FoxJack 3 can be controlled remotely with your FOXPRO remote digital game call. The auxiliary button on your FOXPRO remote control starts and stops the action. The FoxJack 3 is backed by a 5-year limited warranty and FOXPROs unmatched customer support and is proudly made in the USA. For more information, visit www.gofoxpro.com. By Tim Davis
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INSIDE THE DEN Patrick Durkin
COYDOGS:
MORE MYTH THAN REALITY?
young, solitary males seeking mates. (Researchers agree its highly unlikely a female coyote would mate with a domestic dog.) When female coyotes are in short supply, some male coyotes might seek female domestic dogs in heat and do something unusual: breed them rather than kill them. Even when that scenario unfolds, the hybrid progeny face uphill fights for survival. They dont make good pets for most people, and those that do arent likely to return to the wild. Even if the progeny reproduce, their coyote genes are soon swamped within the large population of domestic dogs.
NATURAL BARRIERS
Lets look at how common coydogs are and if they really are taking over the woods near you.
PRO STAFF PATRICK DURKIN:

Patrick Durkin is a lifelong hunter and longtime freelance outdoor writer from Waupaca, Wis. He has also edited several hunting books and magazines, and he specializes in making cutting-edge wildlife research useful for predator hunters.
NEVER LET ANYONE TELL YOU THERES NO SUCH THING AS A COYDOG AND DISMISS IT AS A RURAL LEGEND OR MYTHICAL MUTT. DNA testing in recent years documents that wild coyotes have bred domestic dogs and produced hybrids that also reproduced. On the other hand, never let anyone tell you coydogs are taking over the neighborhood and pushing coyotes toward the Endangered Species List. The truth, however, isnt centered between those extremes. When biologists and geneticists discuss coydogs and their abundance in the wild, they align closer to the first statement than the second. Yes, coyotes breed with domesticated dogs, but nature has ways to make such pairings difficult and uncommon. After speaking with zoologists and reading research into coyote-dog hybrids since the 1940s, I think its fair to say coydogs usually result from unique circumstances. For instance, as coyotes expanded their range into Southeastern states during the past century, their pioneers were mostly
But what about those unusual cases where the mother dog is feral and gives birth to her litter in the wild? When her offspring mature, theyll likely be out of sync with the wild coyotes breeding cycle. Coyotes typically breed from late January to early March, while the coydogs breeding cycle starts two months earlier, primarily in December. Assuming some male hybrids survive, theyll probably struggle to find a female coyote in heat when theyre feeling rutty. Even if they do breed with a female coyote, their dog genes will soon be swamped. After all, coyotes prefer to breed with other full-bred coyotes. Yes, some coydog genes get passed along every time they breed with coyotes, but within a couple of generations their genes become unrecognizable without sophisticated DNA testing. Meanwhile, a female hybrid will also be out of sync with the coyotes breeding season. But if she manages to get impregnated during her December estrus
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INSIDE THE DEN

period, her pups could be vulnerable when theyre born two months later. Not only will they be born in late winter, which can be tough some years especially in Northern climates but their care will fall entirely on their mother if she was impregnated by a hybrid male. Unlike male coyotes, hybrid males just like domestic dogs have no parenting instincts. These pups might make it in warmer winters and in Southern states, but their odds improve if another circumstance unfolds: If the female hybrid is lucky enough to be impregnated by a wild coyote that was rutting earlier than normal, she might get some help whelping her litter. This scenario is probably rare, and not something hybrids can count on. Therefore, the genes of hybrid offspring are once again absorbed by the coyote population and largely vanish. In other words, no matter which scenario unfolds in the wild, coyotes are far more likely to swamp the coydogs gene pool than the other way around. That means coydogs are mostly individual, short-lived phenomena in natures grand scheme. Not far to the west, the Ohio Division of Wildlife analyzed 414 skulls from wild canids from 1982 to 1988 at its Crane Creek Wildlife Experiment Station. Only 10 of the skulls, or 2.5 percent, were determined to be from coydogs. The vast majority, 379 (91.5 percent), were from coyotes. The rest, 25 (6 percent), were feral dogs. The agencys report in The Ohio Journal of Science stated: The incidence of coydog hybrids was high only in areas of expanding, widely dispersed coyote populations. That doesnt mean coydogs arent fascinating creatures, however. People report them regularly, based mostly on dog-like traits they see in the animals tail, face or ears. And theyve been reporting them in North America since at least the
STUDYING THE COYDOG

At least thats what the best available science tells us. For example, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation notes that coyotes moved into the Empire State from the 1950s through the 1970s. But more than 40 years later, The occurrence of a coydog would be an extremely rare event in New York today, the report states.
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INSIDE THE DEN

1800s as Europeans settled the continent. By the mid-1900s, researchers were studying them, documenting their findings, and disproving assumptions as they compiled more information. A 1942 study of captive coyotedog hybrids concluded they were most likely sterile and could not become established in wild populations. A 1943 study suggested hybrids might not be able to survive one year. Subsequent studies in 1969 and 1971, however, found coydogs were fertile and could survive to maturity. Even so, these two studies by Silver and Silver and Robert Mengel concluded the coyotes mating seasons and behaviors would make it impossible for coydogs to breed back (backcross) into the wild coyote population. Arkansas researchers in 1972, however, contradicted that belief, and concluded it was possible for coydogs to backcross. In fact, researchers in Oklahoma (1976) and Nebraska (1978) found evidence coydogs were indeed breeding back into wild coyote populations. And even though a 1981 study of 167 coyote skulls in western South Dakota produced no evidence of coydog hybrids, the researchers noted that the U.S. National Museum held several skulls thought to be hybrids from South Dakota. Therefore, they found it likely that some hybridization was occurring in the state. Irrefutable proof, however, remained scarce. Researchers J.R. Adams, J.A. Leonard and L.P. Waits from Idaho and California noted in 2003 that domestic dogs have shared North America for 9,000 years with coyotes, gray wolves and red wolves. Despite all those years living amongst each other, no actual genetic material from dogs had showed up in any of these wild species despite tests on more than 700 individual animals through the mid-1990s.
ERA OF DNA TESTING

That changed about 12 years ago when Adams, Leonard and Waits analyzed tissues from 24 coyotes in West Virginia, 61 in Virginia, 24 in North Carolina and three in Florida. The researchers DNA analysis found 12 of these animals had a gene closely related to domestic dogs. The area where they uncovered these matches corresponds to a region where
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INSIDE THE DEN

coyotes had been trucked in from Texas and released for sport hunting. The report states: Dispersing juvenile males are much more abundant in this trade because they are easier to capture. Some coyotes were released into areas, which previously had no coyotes, and they escaped. (They) may have been the first coyotes in many areas, thus lacking female counterparts. In this situation, one male may have mated with a single female dog. The female hybrid offspring may have been accepted by male coyotes because there were no other female coyotes available. Since then, the coyote population has grown to the point where coyote genes swamped the coydogs genes. The researchers concluded: There has been no appreciable effect on the coyotes genetic, morphological or behavioral integrity.
CONCLUSION
Some coydogs, however, owe their existence to far more direct human intervention. Some breeders have held coyotes in captivity and bred them with beagles, terriers, German shepherds and other domestic dogs. Not surprisingly, dog breeders report that the offspring of these forced pairings are not playful or outgoing, and require expert handling. The take-home message from that seems clear: Humans should tread carefully when trying to defeat the barriers nature built around wild coyotes. When we breach those barriers, the progeny will probably be less predictable than what we expect from wild coyotes and domestic dogs.
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AIRGUN ADVANTAGE Jim Chapman
Three of the new Military Look semi-auto PCP air ries offered by Evanix: The GTL .357 (top), the GTL .22 (middle), and the MAX .25 (bottom).
PRO STAFF JIM CHAPMAN: Jim Chapman has been hunting with traditional firearms for more than 30 years. Over the last 20 years, most of his hunting has focused on the use of airguns. He has taken all manner of small game, varmints, predators, and, more recently, big game with both production guns and custom big bores. bullpup design; or incorporate a mixture of these design elements and position the airtank in the stock or as a bottle or tube under the barrel. Examples of the former are the Airforce Condor, Talon and FX Verminator, and of the latter are the Evanix Max, the new FX Bobcat, and the growing lineup of bullpup designs. There are also guns like the Evanix GTL series, which are quasi bullpups that use semi-automatic actions and offer many of the advantages of both design approaches. Ive been doing a lot of shooting with these guns, and a fair amount of hunting as well. Ill give you a quick run-through on several of these models and give you my read on them. My criteria is that the gun is accurate, powerful, fast to cycle and easy to carry; has flexibility to shoot from any field position; and has the caliber selection for the type of hunting I want to use it for. AirForce was the first American manufacturer to jump into the PCP market several years ago, with a design that is simple and elegant and from the very beginning had that tactical
BLACK GUNS!
Compact size and semi-auto capabilities make these airguns a varmint hunters dream.
ANYONE WHOS BEEN PAYING ATTENTION TO FIREARM TRENDS OVER THE PAST DECADE OR SO HAS NOTED THE INTENSE INTEREST IN GUNS WITH MILITARY OR TACTICAL DESIGN CHARACTERISTICS. These guns have been broadening their appeal, at first with target shooters, and more recently with hunters. Predator hunters were the first to jump on the bandwagon with respect to the hunting community, but with the introduction of other calibers more suited to big-game hunting, there is growing interest from deer hunters as well. Airgunning trends often follow the same course as those seen in the powder-burning world, and while I have always been more of a traditionalist in my aesthetic preferences when it comes to shooting hardware, I must admit that these designs have a lot of appeal. While the term black gun has been applied to quite a broad range of guns, there are several shared attributes. These guns are usually compact, have an adjustable stock (telescopic or folding), utilize synthetic materials, incorporate a pistol grip, and have a number of options for mounting adjunct gear (lights, lasers, bipods). And whether youre hunting predators or varmints with firearms or airguns, these are useful features to have. There is a challenge when designing this type of gun based on a pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) action aside from anything you might want to do for the stock and trigger assembly, you need to figure out how to incorporate the air storage to power it. There are a couple approaches with variations on the theme: implement a design that uses a synthetic stock, incorporates a pistol grip, and uses a carbine-length barrel; develop a
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AIRGUN ADVANTAGE
The new Evanix GTL 480 S .357 PCP air rie is a predator-hunting machine!
military look and feel to it. Their Talon, Talon-P and Condor all use the airtank as the buttstock, use synthetic materials, and feature a pistol grip and a fully shrouded barrel. They have a carry handle with an 11mm dovetail incorporated to mount optics, and another Weaver-style mount under the barrel shroud onto which a light or bipod can be mounted. These guns come in .177, .22, and .25 with a wide range of factory and aftermarket options available. The AirForce guns are accurate and very powerful, they have adjustable power, and they can be broken down for transport. The only thing Im not crazy about is that they are single-shot and have a safety that automatically deploys when the gun is cocked. Lawyers like it, I dont, but it is easy enough to deactivate once you get the rifle home with you. There is a very active community of AirForce shooters that have their own forums, and there is a robust accessories market with a number of vendors and talented airgun smiths that can help you make the gun exactly what you want. Evanix is a Korean company that has made a strong push into the U.S. airgun market, and has differentiated themselves with innovative designs, reasonable pricing, and a strong value proposition. The Max was their first bullpup design, based on the proven semi/full-auto actions used in the companys Speed/Conquest product line. This gun uses a battery-powered electromechanical actuator to cycle the gun in semi or full auto, though a decision has been made not to offer the full-auto in our market, which in terms of a hunting gun is irrelevant. This gun is available in .177, .22, .25, and .357, using a rotary magazine housed in a protective
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cassette to deliver pellets as fast as you can pull the trigger. This gun uses a lot of metal for the action and forestock, and it has a hardwood thumbhole stock, which is compact although fairly heavy. Having said this, its still easy to carry with a three-point AR-style sling, and though its on the heavy side, the compactness of the gun moves that weight towards the shooters center, making it very stable to shoot offhand. Recently Ive been shooting the Evanix GTL 480 S rifles/carbines/ bullpup (not sure what to call it) quite a bit, and have found the .22 and .357 versions to be exceedingly accurate. The reason I cant decide how to classify this gun is that the action has been moved rearward so it sits behind the trigger and uses a linking mechanism, but the action is not
moved all the way back to the heel of the buttstock. So its not really a bullpup, even though it kind of looks like one. It uses a full-length 20-inch barrel, and because the action has been shifted rearward, the gun has a reduced overall length, but its a rifle barrel and not a carbine. The important point is that the guns are quite compact and have a good ergonomic design; not always easy with a bullpup(ish) design. Both of these guns are very accurate and powerful, and with the 480cc airtank bracketed by the forestock assembly, they offer a high-shot count. The distal tank stabilizer has a Picatinny rail designed in for easy mounting of a light or bipod. The only negative for this gun, in my experience, is that due to the extensive use of metal in the stock, they are heavy. However,
similar to the Max, the compact dimensions of the gun offsets the weight, making it easy to carry and easy to bring into action. There are several other guns in this class that have either been recently introduced to market or are on the horizon. One rifle Im very anxious to get my hands on is the new FX Bobcat, which is the Swedish manufacturers first bullpup design. The reason I am looking forward to this gun is that FX makes some of my favorite air rifles, from the takedown Verminator (which Ive written much about) to their mid-bore Boss .303, and every one that Ive shot is a tack hammer! There are also some interesting bullpup imports, such as the Russian-made Cricket and Edguns, that have had a very positive reception from American shooters since their introduction.
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AIRGUN ADVANTAGE
So even though my aesthetic sensibilities remain unchanged when it comes to a finely figured traditional wooden stock, after shooting these newer styles I have to appreciate what they bring to the table. Easily maneuverable and quick to bring into action, they are a great option for hunting in thick brush. Ive always felt that if something works in the field, it deserves to be used, and these guns work like a charm! This trend toward more tactical designs will continue, and I anticipate most manufacturers will come to market with an offering in the not-too-distant future. If you are looking for a compact and fasthandling predator or varmint gun, I can recommend you take a look at what this class of guns has to offer.
Jim lines up a shot with the AirForce Talon-P pistol/carbine. This gun is a compact .25 powerhouse, making it ideal for varmints and close-range predators.
ALL ABOUT GUNS Scott Mayer
ROCK RIVER ARMS 16-INCH MID PREDATOR PURSUIT
PRO STAFF SCOTT MAYER:

Mayer began his outdoor industry career in 1993 on the NRA Technical Staff where he became American Rifleman magazines first Shooting Editor. Mayer left NRA and entered the business end of publishing in 2003 as Advertising Account Executive for SCIs SAFARI Magazine and Safari Times paper. In 2006, Mayer was named Publisher of Shooting Times magazine where he was also tasked with launching and leading Personal Defense TV, the first television show of its kind.
THE POLITICAL CLIMATE OVER THE PAST SIX YEARS KICKED OFF A SUSTAINED GUN-BUYING FRENZY PARTICULARLY IN THE AR MARKET THAT IS COMPLETELY UNPRECEDENTED, EVEN ECLIPSING THAT OF 1994. For years, shooters have literally snatched up any AR they could, even if it wasnt quite the right gun, for fear that one like it might not ever be available again. Look, I get it. I did the same thing during Y2K and ended up with a wonderful garden-variety A2 that wasnt quite what I wanted, but would do in a pinch if all things electronic either croaked or went Skynet on us at midnight. But now its time to take a breath, assess what features you really need, and not compromise on your dedicated predator rig. The one Ive been looking at lately is the Mid Predator Pursuit from Rock River Arms, and the more I use this AR, the more Im convinced that theres little, if any, compromise for predator hunters. For one thing, it should be a given by now that the AR platform is ideal for predators. Theyre accurate, and they offer low recoil, potent chamberings, and quick follow-up shots for times such as when a pair of coyotes comes in and one meets 55 grains of awesome right away while the other runs off a hundred yards or so and stops to look back. This gun is a mid-length, meaning the gas system is shorter than a rifles but longer than a carbines. The length of the gas system and position
of the gas port are critical because if the port is too close to the chamber, pressure is too high for too long and can damage the gun. If its too close to the muzzle, pressure drops off before the gun cycles and it might short stroke. With its 16-inch barrel, a carbine gas system mechanically could work on this gun, but I think its better that Rock River chose a mid-length because its easier on the gun and should be reliable with a wider variety of loads. Another benefit is that a mid-length has a longer forend, and that gives you more flexibility positioning the gun for a shot from shooting sticks especially on uneven ground or if you have to shoot from an unconventional position.
NOT A WALK-AROUND GUN, BUT

At 7.2 pounds unloaded and without a scope, this isnt a gun you take for a walk hoping to jump-shoot a coyote, but its also much lighter than the varmint-type of ARs that are best set up on a portable bench over a prairie dog town. It has
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enough heft that you can hold it steady even if youre a little winded from blowing a long series of calls and is still light enough to easily carry from one calling location to another. Its heavy match stainless barrel has both pros and cons. The pros include there not being a lot of length wagging around that a predator can see, and being shorter means it picks up targets faster. Theres also a good argument to be made that shorter barrels are inherently more accurate than longer ones because they whip less when shot. The primary con to a short barrel is that you give up a little velocity over a longer one (for the .223 Rem. its about 30 fps per inch according to SAAMI standards). Some also might gripe that theres no muzzle brake on the Predator Pursuit, but Id ask them if theyve ever fired a 16-inch-barreled AR. Theyre loud, and with a brake theyre REALLY loud, and to me that just means having to put more distance between calling locations.
ACCURACY GUARANTEED
Rock River Arms offers a MOA guarantee on these guns, and while thats a really good guarantee, its also a safe one considering its accuracy-enhancing features plus Rock Rivers well-earned reputation for high quality at a good price. The match-grade barrels are air gauged to ensure bore uniformity, and theyre cryogenic treated. I was involved in an extensive cryotreating test in 1999 and, while it will never make an inaccurate gun into an accurate one, I found as much as a 98-percent probability that it could increase accuracy. Surrounding the barrel is Rock Rivers aluminum free-float tube, so theres nothing touching the barrel that could push it off from its zeroed position. When it comes to the .223 chambering, my opinion (and I rate it nothing more) is that there are 55-grain bullets and then theres everything else. Since your opinion may differ, Rock River gives the Predator Pursuit a 1:8-inch twist that should stabilize a wide variety of bullets. Bullet length is primarily what determines twist rate, and the longer the bullet, the faster a twist thats needed to stabilize it. Since most shooters view bullet length in terms of weight, the 1:8-inch twist lets you accurately shoot .223 bullets that are on the heavy side. The chamber is the .223 Wylde. Thats a match chamber relieved in the body and with a short match throat that safely fires either .223 Rem. or 5.56mm NATO ammunition. Many folks shoot those two interchangeably, but there is a difference, and the Wylde chamber lets you hunt with varmint ammo and practice with less expensive military surplus without worrying about it.
37
ALL ABOUT GUNS

Another accuracy-influencing feature is the two-stage match trigger, and its a far cry from the two-stage triggers you find on surplus Mauser rifles. The -inch of take-up has a little more resistance than what one normally finds followed by a light, crisp break with no creep or overtravel. The heavier-than-usual take-up is going to take some range time to get used to, but once you put on a pair of gloves, youll see how it helps with trigger control. Gloves mask a lot of trigger finger sensitivity, so its possible to fire before youre ready with a light trigger pull and too light a take-up. Theres a winter trigger guard on this gun, so Rock River clearly has gloved shooters in mind. Though its not an accuracyenhancing feature, the Predator Pursuit has a forward assist, and its probably the one feature I think this gun can do without. The purpose of the forward assist is to force the bolt closed on a troublesome round. When hunting, I can see a case for it if you dont want to make a lot of noise and you ease the bolt down on a loaded round while controlling the charging handle and then use the forward assist to make sure everythings seated properly. Wellknown personal defense instructor Clint Smith taught me to seat things by pushing forward using the cutout in the side of the bolt instead, because smacking the forward assist can hopelessly stick a cartridge in the chamber. Whether you use the cutout or the assist is up to you. suited for smaller targets such as prairie dogs, but I wanted to eliminate as much human error as possible. Loads ranged from handloads with Speer 52-grain hollowpoints up to factory 75-grain Hornady TAP ammo. TAP isnt what Id use for predators, but I wanted to push the stabilizing capabilities of the 1:8-inch twist with as long a bullet as I had available. Firing -MOA groups with conventional-weight bullets was easy to the point of being boring. The heavy TAP loads produced nice round holes, suggesting they were stable, but groups opened up to 0.88 inch still nothing to sneeze at.
CONCLUSION ON THE RANGE

For accuracy testing, I topped the Predator Pursuit with a Burris 6.5-20X scope. That scope is better If you bought a too-heavy varmint gun or a too-gizzy defensive gun thinking it might serve as a predator rifle, now might be the
38
time to put it in the used-gun rack and get a dedicated predator AR instead. There are a lot of really good ARs out there, so consider what features are important to you and how you hunt. If Rock Rivers 16-inch Mid Predator Pursuit fits what youre looking for, and if my experience is typical, then I dont think youd go wrong with this one. More information is available at www.rockriverarms.com.
SPEC SHEET
MANUFACTURER: Rock River Arms www.rockriverarms.com (866) 980-7625 MODEL: 16 MID PREDATOR PURSUIT CALIBER: .223 REM./5.56MM NATO ACTION: Gas-operated semi-automatic rifle MAGAZINE CAPACITY: One 20-round magazine included BARREL: 16-inch, heavy match stainless, air-gauged and cryotreated, 1:8 twist TRIGGER: 2-stage match SIGHTS: None. Picatinny rail on upper and gas block STOCK: Fixed A2 with storage compartment OVERALL LENGTH: 3414 inches WEIGHT: 7.2 pounds OTHER FEATURES: .223 Wylde chamber, Hogue rubber grip, aluminum free-float tube fore end, winter trigger guard, 34-MOA accuracy guarantee MSRP: $1,190 (rifle only)
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CALLER FOR HIRE Tom Austin
PRO STAFF TOM AUSTIN: Tom Austin began his predator hunting journey at age 7, when his father introduced him to the sport of calling. Over the years his fever intensified. Hes finally found a cure as a professional guide, hunting predators 40 hours a week, using his experience to gain the edge over his quarry. doe, putting him on a perfect line toward my hide. I found the Benelli M4 resting across my lap and set the safety switch to red. The old male coyote was at a lope by the time he entered the zone of no return the kill zone. I slowly raised the stock to my cheek and found him in the EOTech sight. One shot was all it took, and the prime coyote was motionless only 7 yards from my boots. I had just lowered my gun and made it safe when I saw the doe running at me. She passed by me at arms reach and proceeded to stomp the already dead coyote even deeper into the snow with her front hooves. She looked at me again. Oh no, you dont, I yelled at her, standing up while unmasking my face. She startled and retreated out of sight. Awkwardly, I looked around to see who else had watched the scene unfold, but no one was there. I was hunting solo that day and doubted that anyone would ever believe me. A good friend of mine once said, solo hunting is an experience that only God and yourself get to witness. Its only
SOLO SONG DOGGER

There are benefits to going it alone.
I SHRUGGED MY TALL SLENDER BODY INTO THE WANING SHADE OF A BARE COTTONWOOD AND BEGAN TO BREATHE LIFE INTO AN OPEN-REED CALL. Long drawn-out fawn cries exited the stabilized burl wood with enough vibratos to make any choir teacher proud. I continued to call for several minutes, giving as much realism to the fawn distress as I could muster. My left eye teared up as a cold stiff breeze swirled the freshly fallen snow at my feet. Come on, send something my way, I thought to myself, asking God for a little help. I pondered if God actually did that sort of thing as my mind began to wander for a few minutes. Unexpectedly, a mature mule deer doe snort-wheezed just a few yards behind me. Surprised, I screamed like a schoolgirl in my head and possibly out loud as well. I turned to see the doe looking at me intently, pawing at the frozen earth below. The call still hung from my lips. Ill show you, I thought to myself as I snickered, knowing what was about to happen. As loud as I could, I exhaled a gravelly old male-coyote howl, reaching deep within my diaphragm. I looked on, expecting to see the doe bound out of there as fast as her hooves would carry her not even a flinch. It was almost as if she expected me to howl, and it drew her closer still as she snorted and pawed, announcing her distaste. Suddenly, a coyote challenged with his own weathered male voice less than a hundred yards to my left. The doe turned his way as if to ready herself to take us both on. The coyote flashed from the sanctity of cover and began to circle downwind of the
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extraordinary to the participant because words never really can do it justice. Theres something raw and real about going it alone. When I embark on a solo hunt, I take extra precautions that I normally wouldnt. Whether you hunt solo out of necessity or simply preference, enjoy your solo solace, safely.
SMART IS SAFE
If you happen to be the kind of person that doesnt want a tagalong, at least be responsible about it. Always let someone know where youre planning to go and when you hope to return, and make sure its in writing. Write someone a note, text or email describing the location of your travels in the event that you dont return. People can forget names of places easily, so the written word is
important. You dont have to give them exact directions to your honeyhole, just a known location so the Search and Rescue team knows where to start. Have a mechanic check your vehicle for any potential
hazards or problems. Top off all fluid levels and check the tire pressure in the spare. A sturdy shovel and handyman jack have gotten me out of some pretty sticky situations. Make sure your cell phone is charged
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CALLER FOR HIRE

with an extra battery or backup charging method if possible. Another good idea is to use a credit card when you travel instead of cash. The authorities can access your last known whereabouts by your transactions, possibly saving your life in the event that you end up somewhere entirely different than you planned. Bring along extra food, fuel and water. Forty-eight hours worth is a good rule of thumb. Last but not least, whenever possible, stay put. If youre stranded or lost, you do more damage than good by moving around. Stay where you are and stay dry. Someone will find you. Taking a little time in advance will ensure not only safety, but also more time afield to net more success.
If your hunting buddy cant make it, go alone. Fewer bodies on stand mean less scent, less movement and less noise, too.
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SOLITARY REFINEMENT
Solo callers can definitely enjoy some benefits that party hunters dont. Fewer bodies on stand means less movement to risk being spotted too soon, less scent to be spread around and less noise to spook your quarry. But theres actually even more to it than that. Too often while party hunting, everyone is trying to kill the same coyote. As a result, you shoot much earlier than you would if you had him all to yourself. Those long shots result in more misses, creating more errors. When solo hunting, you only have your own patience to compete against, so sit back and take your time waiting for the perfect shot opportunity. Another problem I see with party hunting is stand quality is usually diminished. A stand that looks great for a solo caller might not be feasible for two or three. Therefore, we pass by great-looking solo stands to pigeonhole our hunting party into a not-so-great stand. We try to overcome some of the obstacles weve created by having too many bodies, but by doing so, were taking ourselves out of the action. Solo hunters are generally more attentive on stand as well. No one likes to look over at their hunting partner at the 15-minute mark to see them making snowballs, playing Angry Birds or worse yet, sleeping. When youre alone, youre not just a member of the band, youre the entire show. You have to be at the top of your game or you go home empty-handed. A solo hunter cant be lazy or distracted like you might be if you were hunting with someone. Working smarter instead of harder is another technique that solo hunters seem to do well. For the most part, solo callers have streamlined their calling equipment to the point that everything has a purpose and a place. From the way they carry their rifle to the way they cross a fence, its always done the same. Their equipment is always organized and they only take what theyre going to use. No less, no more. Youd never think it, but fluidity makes a big difference when it comes to putting fur down. Possibly the greatest benefit that I see for solo hunting is what youll surely learn about yourself. Theres no one to shift the blame upon after a botched hunt. You learn rather quickly where your weaknesses are, be it calling, shooting, stand selection or even scouting. Feel free to be brutally honest with yourself. It will make you a better caller, one stand at a time.
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New Optics
PRODUCT ROUNDUP
OPTI
LOOKING TO KEEP YOUR SKINNING KNIFE OUT OF ITS SHEATH THIS SEASON?
Remember, if you cant see it, you cant kill it. Yes, perhaps the biggest piece of the predator-calling puzzle is having great optics. And Im not just talking about a quality scope that gathers every bit of light possible. Im talking about a quality set of optics hanging from your neck and even a worthy spotting scope that is sure to boost your predator reconnaissance. Savvy manufacturers know that toothy critters are most active during lowlight hours, and they have once again gone above and beyond to offer you, the predator-hunting fanatic, superior optics that will undoubtedly boost your success rate.
Alpen Optics
New and exciting from Alpen Optics is its pair of ED HD Rainier Spotting Scopes. The 851 ED 20-60x80 is available with a straight eyepiece and the 853ED 20-60x80 with a 45-degree eyepiece. Both boast extra-low dispersion high-definition optics that deliver incredible optic clarity and color fidelity. The UBX fully multi-coated optics, BaK-4 prisms and SHR metallic coating give these the brightest and sharpest image possible, allowing you to spy stealthy predators from a distance. The large objective lenses gather every bit of light available to provide you with maximum optic performance from the first twinkle of light to the last. MSRP $653-$826; www.alpenoptics.com.
Aurora Tactical
Rule the day and conquer the night with Aurora Tacticals 8010 Day/Night Weapon Sight. More time in the field means more dead predators, and thanks to the 8010 Day/Night Weapon, you never have to leave the field to change scopes. This innovative optic can be switched from a day scope to a night scope in the amount of time it takes to zip up your jacket. No tools. No shift in the point of impact. Just make the swap and youre ready to hunt. Aurora Tacticals special lens coating provides optimum light transmission in the light wave of 400 to 900 nanometers. Promising accuracy in the bright light of day or under the blanket of night is the triplex mil-dot ranging reticle. MSRP $4,995; www.auroratactical.com.
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Jace Bauserman
CS
Bushnell Burris
Always on the cutting edge of optic innovation, Burris offers predator hunters the C4 line of riflescopes. If you love customization options, youre going to love these scopes. The C4s Cartridge Calibrated Custom Clicker system allows you the ability to match elevation adjustment to your favorite predator cartridge, making pinpoint accuracy easier than ever. In addition, you can also order a free custom knob that matches your favorite load. The new C4 scopes are available in four models the 3-9x40mm and 4.5-14x42mm in a choice of 1-inch and 30mm tubes. All are constructed from premium glass and offer HiLume multi-coatings for optimal edge-to-edge clarity, sharpness and low-light performance. MSRP $299-$499; www.burrisoptics.com.
Heres a look at the newest crop of optics.
An industry leader in the optic arena, Bushnells new Fusion 1 Mile laser rangefinder and binocular are remarkable in every way. The Fusion 1 Mile is available in 8x32 mm, 10x42mm and 12x50mm configurations, and each feature BAK-4 prisms with PC-3 corrective phase coating. Adding some icing to this already sweet cake is exclusive XTR prism coating technology, allowing the Fusion 1 Mile to provide jaw-dropping resolution and image clarity regardless of lighting conditions. And, of course, the Fusion 1 Mile is Bushnell tough. The patented RainGuard HD lens coating causes moisture to bead up, scattering less light, and the rubber-armored chassis is as durable as they come. MSPR $999.99-$1,299.99; www.bushnell.com.
CenterPoint Optics
Focused on helping you make memories each time you chase fanged critters is CenterPoint Optics. Sporting a reinforced rubber armored body featuring sound absorption technology is CenterPoints 10x42mm Full-Sized Roof Prism Binoculars. Aside from being tough as nails and quiet as a church mouse, these stellar optics promise dawn-to-dusk clarity via their fully multi-coated lenses, which deliver exceptional sharpness and clarity. Not to mention that these optics were built to withstand abuse from Mother Nature. Wet or dry, these binoculars feel great in the hand. The comfort strap conforms to the neck and the large, fast, easy-to-focus knob makes target acquisition very quick. MSRP $60; centerpoint.crosman.com.
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New Optics
EOTech
Holographic Hybrid Sights have proven themselves in games like Modern Warfare 3, but the big screen is not the only place these innovative sights are making noise. The HHS1 and HHS2 combine the speed of the EXPS holographic weapon sight and the extended-range versatility of the G33 magnifier to give the predator hunter true two-eyes-open shooting. Ideal for long-range shots up to 500 meters, the HSS kits feature the G33s Quick Switch to Side magnifier mount. Lighter and smaller than the legendary G23, this magnifier is guaranteed to significantly extend your effective range. The eye relief has been extended to 2.2 inches to provide a more comfortable cheek weld while shooting, too. MSRP $1,059-$1,125; www.eotech-inc.com.
Hawke Optics
Target shooters have long enjoyed Hawkes illuminated mil-dot reticle, but hunters wanted something simpler something a bit more userfriendly. Hawke has delivered. Its 30/30 IR reticle ensures rapid target acquisition thanks to its open, uncluttered sight picture. It also features dual red/ green illumination on the bulletproof, glass-etched reticle. This illumination allows predator hunters to make killing shots no matter the lighting. This new reticle is available in the 2-7x32, 3-9x40 and 4-12x40. MSRP $119.99-129.99; www.hawkeoptics.com.
Kelblys
The Tactical March-F 3-24x42 FFP Scope with new MOA Turrets MIL Radian and Minute of Angle target ranging is easier and more accurate than ever. The scope has an 8X magnification ratio in the first focal plane, which is the highest magnification ratio in FFP to date. The March-F 3-24x42 comes in illuminated and non-illuminated models, and both standard- and low-illumination modules are available. With four levels of red reticle intensity that can be cycled through by simply pressing the pressure switch located within the focus dial on the left side, brightness and target acquisition are never a concern. MSRP $2,700; www.kelbly.com.
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Lucid L5
Lucid has a variable-magnification riflescope called the L5. Within the 30mm tube is a 6-24x50mm magnified imaging machine. Shockproof up to .338 Lapua, its equipped with a side parallax adjustment, 1 8 MOA click turrets that are lockable and zero resettable. The reticle is MOA graduated with multiple holdover and hold-off points for the discriminating rifleman. MSRP $499; www.mylucidgear.com.
Meopta
Meoptas ZD Tactic 4-16x44 RD riflescope with illuminated mil-dot reticle will have you puffing fur up to 800 meters. The scope sports an adjustable objective for setting zero parallax at distances from 3 meters to infinity, making the ZD 4-16x44 RD a true tack driver. Getting you on target are the ZD tactical target turrets, which feature .05 mil rad positive click-stop adjustments, and the elevation turret allows calibration of bullet drop to distances once thought unimaginable. Also impressive is the scopes seven levels of reticle illumination intensity. MSRP $1,259.99; www.meoptausa.com.
Nightforce
At the very mention of Nightforce scopes, predators start quaking in their paws and for good reason. Nightforce scopes are remarkable in every way. The latest addition, the 2.5-10x42 NXS Compact Riflescope with Side Parallax Adjustment, has been proven in the hands of the U.S. military and offers a level of performance that far exceeds its size. Ultra-effective in lowlight thanks to its larger objective lens, this lightweight (19-20.5 ounces) and compact (11.9 inches in length), 2.5-10x42 scope is one of the only 10X riflescopes on the market that sports side parallax adjustment from 25 yards to infinity. The scope also incorporates Nightforce DigIllum digital reticle illumination technology. MSRP $1,800; www.nightforceoptics.com.
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New Optics
Nikon
The new Coyote Special is available in 3-9x40 and 4-12x40 configurations in matte black, Mossy Oak Brush and Realtree Max-1. Boosting your sight picture and providing up to 97 percent light transmission is the fully multi-coated optical system with multiple layers of anti-reflective compounds on every surface. The Coyote Special features a quick-focus eyepiece for quick target acquisition and rapid focus. And, of course, the scope is paired with Nikons BDC Predator Reticle that utilizes ballistic circles that dont obscure the target. MSRP $279.95-$299.95; www.nikonhunting.com.
Steiner Optics
Offering predator enthusiasts topquality European optics with superior coatings in a durable, Americanmade housing at a price that wont break the bank, the Predator Xtreme riflescope line demands attention. Available in three models, the 2.5-10x42mm, 3-12x56mm and 4-16x50mm, Steiners riflescopes give hunters precision-ground lenses with Color Adjusted Transmission (CAT) technology. This CAT technology promises the highest levels of contrast and light transmission, making approaching predators pop and stand out against the landscape. All Predator Xtreme riflescopes sport the Steiner Plex S1 Ballistic etched reticle. MSRP $799.99-$999.99; www.steiner-binoculars.com.
Sightmark
Known for its tactical, target shooting and hunting accessories, Sightmark has hit yet another home run with its new line of Solitude XD Binoculars. Available in 7x36XD, 8x42XD and 10x42XD, the Solitude XDs feature phase-corrected, fully broad band multi-coated optics to maximize overall efficiency and improve the range of the visible spectrum. Each XD bino features extra-low dispersion XD glass, BAK-4 roof prisms and an advanced magnesium bridge that ensures amazing contrast and color fidelity. MSRP $419.99-479.99; www.sightmark.com.
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Trijicon
Wanting to make sniping predators at extended distances easier than ever is Trijicon and its TARS High-Performance Riflescope. The Trijicon TARS (Tactical Advanced Riflescope) is a seaworthy 3-15X variable magnification, 50mmobjective, illuminated-reticle optic designed to drop predators dead in their tracks. With premium optics and exact adjustments, the TARS is a breeze to sight in, and its fully multi-coated to better ensure maximum light transmission. With 3.3 inches of eye relief, you can peer through this scope for hours without getting a headache. As far as light transmission goes, the illuminated reticle features 10 levels of intensity, including two levels designed specifically for use with night-vision optics. MSRP $3,391.50; www.trijicon.com.
Vanguard USA
Introduced at the 2012 Shot Show, Vanguards Spirit XF 10x42 binoculars have quickly become a favorite of many. At just 23.6 ounces, these handy binos are ultra-light and ultra-comfortable. In addition, the Spirit XF 10x42 boasts twist-out eyecups that can be positioned at multiple points to better ensure maximum eye relief. Constructed from textured rubber, these binoculars are rugged, durable and ready to meet the demands of any predator excursion. Totally waterproof and fogproof, the Spirit XFs fully multi-coated lenses and BAK-4 prisms promise amazing edge-to-edge clarity and brilliant color images. MSRP $249; www.vanguardworld.com.
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New Optics
Vortex
Now predator enthusiasts can enjoy the benefits of two new additions to the manufacturers popular HD line of binoculars the Razor HD 10x50 and 12x50 models. These binoculars sport extra-low dispersion glass that delivers incredible resolution and color fidelity. Also sure to be appreciated are Vortexs proprietary XR anti-reflective coatings, which guarantee optimal low-light performance. Each exterior lens features Armor Tek, an ultra-hard optical coating that protects the lenses from dirt, sand and other lens-damaging debris. Ergonomically pleasing, both the 10x50 and 12x50 models have a magnesium chassis, which makes these new bino additions light and incredibly durable. MSRP $1,279-$1,499; www.vortexoptics.com.
Weaver
A household name in the optic industry, Weaver is ready to impress with its new EB-X Grand Slam Varmint Reticle. Minimizing frustrating holdover, the EB-X Grand Slam Varmint Reticle is customized to work with most varmint cartridges at your riflescopes highest magnification. Its easy to operate simply set your scopes zoom ring to its highest power position and sight in your rifle at 100 or 200 yards using the center of the crosshair. The reticle then graduates down and is equipped with 10 mph windage points to the right and to the left of the graduated reticle. www.weaver-mounts.com.
Zeiss
A name with roots that run deep in optics lore, Zeiss gives varmint hunters a rimfire option in the Zeiss Conquest Rimfire 3-9x40 Riflescope. Providing exceptional target clarity and generous eye relief, the Rimfire Riflescope has -MOA adjustments and features the Z-Plex 20 reticle in the second image plane for precise shot placements on small targets like fox. The Rimfire sports a compact, lightweight aluminum alloy 1-inch main tube with a scratch-resistant, hard anodized matte black finish. MSRP $555; www.zeiss.com/sports.
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Serving Your Optic Needs

Now that your predator optic wish list is full, its time to act. Here to help is a selection of stellar optic dealers who are ready to answer your questions and help you find the right optics for your next predator adventure. Adorama Camera (www.adorama.com; 800-223-2500) has great selection of optics at competitive prices. D&B Supply (www.scopeusout.com; 704-824-7511) is owned by Bill and Diane Shehane. This shooting couple took their passion and turned it into a business. If youre looking for special shooting services and special shooting products not found in most catalogs, give Bill and Diane a ring. Leapers (www.leapers.com; 734-542-1500) has been meeting the optic needs of predator hunters since 1922. With a goal to provide a total solution for every brand of product the company offers, Leapers pays extra close attention to industry trends and customer feedback to give you the best products possible. Camera Land (www.cameralandny.com; 866-967-8427) is a full-service sports optics and camera dealer that is here not just to fill orders but also to answer your questions. Honestly, youre without excuse. You have the information. You have the knowledge. You even know where to find these amazing optics. All thats left to do now is make a trip to the bank and make an optics purchase that will undoubtedly make you more lethal in the predator woods this season.
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Calling All Coyotes
COYOTES
A NEBRASKA COYOTE KILLER SHARES HIS CALL RECIPES FOR YEAR-ROUND SUCCESS.
I SLOWLY LIFTED THE REMOTE AND LOOKED AT THE TIMER5:11, 5:12, 5:13. THE FIRST FIVE MINUTES OF THE STAND HAD BEEN UNEVENTFUL TO SAY THE LEAST, MUCH LIKE THE PREVIOUS FIVE STANDS WE HAD ALREADY MADE THAT MORNING. Was I using the right sound? Was the sound carrying far enough? Were we sitting long enough? Were there even any coyotes within earshot to hear it? These were just a few of the questions that bounced through my mind while I sat there waiting patiently. It was late February and we were calling some of the most coyote-rich and picturesque country this great nation has to offer the sandhills of Nebraska. Optimism was high earlier that morning as we drove through the darkness on a one-lane paved road into the middle of no-mans land, but after ve dry stands and an increasing wind, our dedication and enthusiasm were being tested.
CALLING ALL
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Geoff Nemnich
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WindigoImages/ Mark Kayser
Calling All Coyotes

The sun was already high in the late-morning sky and I knew that the coyotes would be making the transition from their hunting grounds to their bedding areas. So we headed to a choppy range of yuccacovered sandhills paralleled by vast hay meadows on either side. I glared back down at the remote6:47, 6:48, 6:49. After nearly seven minutes of a screaming jackrabbit without any takers, I decided that something completely different was in order. I scrolled through the sound list, highlighted coyote pup screams, and pressed play. Once I had the volume up to an adequate level, I briey surveyed our setup one last time. The wind was ideal, blowing from left to right around 15 mph. Brett and his trusty .22-250 Rem. stayed with the camera and me. We tucked ourselves into a cluster of yucca plants and had an unobstructed view of nearly 75 percent of the calling area. In order to get a handle on the remaining 25 percent, Joe positioned himself roughly 60 yards downwind of us on the backside of a small rise. The e-caller and decoy were strategically stuffed into the top of a yucca out in front of our position approximately 30 yards. The imaginary line from us to the caller was perpendicular to the wind direction. The setup was spoton. All we needed now was a willing participant. Sometime around the 10-minute mark, I heard the one word I had been waiting so patiently to hear all morning. Coyote, Brett whispered. With a slight turn of my head, I briey caught a pale-gray blur descending off the hillside 300 yards out. Hes coming hard, Brett said hastily. Within a matter of seconds, the coyote had closed the distance to less than 150 yards and slowed to a trot as he crested a small knoll in front of us. At that exact time, the Mojo Critter let loose with one of its erratic spins and the coyotes strides lengthened again. Im gonna try and stop him, Brett said, but it was too late. In what seemed like a couple blinks of the eye, the big male had closed the gap to less than 40 yards and was making a beeline for the e-caller and decoy. BOOM! The .22-250 Rem. barked, and in an awesome display of speed and energy, the 50-grain V-max completely incapacitated the coyote in mid-stride. The coyote came to an abrupt headrst halt less than 3 yards from the CS-24! After our schoolgirl giggles had subsided and in between the head shakes of disbelief, I glanced down at the remote one last time11:24, 11:25, 11:26.
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So what was the key to our success on this stand? Did we nally get within earshot of an unsuspecting coyote? Obviously! So why did this big male not come charging in to the screaming jackrabbit that was playing the rst seven minutes of the stand? Maybe he was making a slow approach. Possibly he had gotten a little bit of an education earlier in the season. Perhaps it was the mild winter we were having. So why did the coyote-pup distress invoke such a rapid and aggressive response? Maybe it was due to the time of year. Possibly we triggered an instinctual response that the coyote had no control over. Perhaps it was due to the area we set up in. Regardless, these are all great questions and ones that Ill discuss throughout the remainder of the article.
and taking turns dragging coyotes back to the truck, a good friend of mine and a coyote-killing veteran of more than 40 years shared his Triple F Theory. He said, Coyotes will come to the call for several reasons. To feed, to ght, or to . . . Well, Ill let you gure out what his third F was. He continued by adding, Its up to you to gure out what the coyotes are wanting that particular day and give them
the corresponding sound. As simple as it sounds, it was something that I hadnt put much thought into before that day. From that point on, I started categorizing the sounds on my call. In todays market of hightech e-callers and large, diverse sound libraries, its easy to get overwhelmed when picking and loading sounds onto your call. To simplify things, Ive classied all the sounds used
Sound Categories And Behavioral Triggers

Eight years ago I was introduced to a priceless theory that different sounds might trigger different responses in coyotes. During a day of sharing stands
A prey sound will play on a coyotes hunger and curiosity. Thats one of the reasons why prey sounds call in more coyotes than other calls.
55
Calling All Coyotes

During the breeding season, youll elicit more responses when playing against territorial and parental triggers, instead of hunger.
specically for calling coyotes into three categories: prey distress, coyote and coyotepup distress and coyote vocalizations. Give yourself the most diverse variety possible within each category, but dont overload your e-caller with too many sounds from one category. In an ideal situation with an e-caller holding 100 sounds, loading 34 prey-distress sounds, 33 coyote/coyote-pup distress sounds, and 33 coyote
vocalizations would be optimal. Now that the three sound categories have been identied, its time to discuss the triggers. Although remembering the three Fs is probably easier, lets break things down a little further by identifying four triggers: hunger, curiosity, territorial and parental. Of the four, hunger and curiosity are responsible for calling in the most coyotes. Is it because these are the easiest triggers
to invoke? Or is it because the average coyote hunter is primarily using sounds that trigger these two responses? I believe its a little of both. Triggering territorial and parental responses can be very effective as well, but understanding certain coyote characteristics and coyote behavior is the key to being able to trigger these responses on a consistent basis throughout the entire hunting season.
Coyote Behavior
Before we can tie everything together into a practical game plan, lets discuss coyote behavior from early fall through early spring. During the month of September and the early part of October,
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the coyote family group is still intact. The pups are still in the general vicinity of their spring denning site, but they are learning to hunt on their own. Food is plentiful, with insects and plants still available for consumption. Hunting pressure is minimal and coyote densities and numbers are the highest they will be all season. In late October and into November, the family group breaks down and the pups head out on their own. During this timeframe, a good portion of the coyote population is composed of young, transient coyotes roaming the countryside looking for their own territory to establish. The food supply is minimized and easy meals such as grasshoppers are gone with the colder temperatures. The coyotes must now take to catching rodents, rabbits and birds. Hunting pressure has signicantly increased and the coyote numbers and densities are dropping. In December through the rst half of January, most coyotes have now established a territory. Winter has hit with full force, and keeping food in its belly is priority number one for a coyote. Hunting pressure is extremely high, and the coyote numbers and densities are continuing to drop. During the last half of January and February, the remaining coyote population turns its focus to repopulating. Mating is now the priority, and the females will come into heat sometime around the rst of February. Food sources are dwindling, and the coyotes must continue to hunt on a daily basis. Hunting pressure remains high, and many of the remaining coyotes have had some sort of educational experience during the previous
four months. In March and April the coyote pairs have established a den. Territory is now the focus. Defending remaining food sources from being eaten by other coyotes is important for the survival of the litters. The family group will spend the next six months in this location. Hunting pressure has dropped signicantly, and as long as 30 percent of the coyote population survived the winter,
there will be just as many coyotes again next fall.
The Game Plan

By now, youve begun to see the relationship between the different sound categories, the triggers they invoke and how this relationship is affected by the changing of seasons. Prey distresses will generally trigger a hunger or curiosity response. Coyote and coyotepup distresses will generally
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Calling All Coyotes
Keeping A Call Log

Keeping a call log is a great way to recognize patterns and help identify productive trends. After every successful stand (successful meaning that you called in a coyote), take note of a variety of factors. Time of year, time of day, sounds used during the stand, how long you were on stand, how did the coyote(s) react to the call (aggressive or cautious), and weather conditions. If you killed the coyote(s), take note of gender and estimated age (pup or adult). Compare these notes throughout the season as well as from year to year. Youll be able to recognize productive trends and implement more effective strategies that will make you a more successful coyote hunter.
trigger a parental or territorial response. Coyote vocalizations will generally trigger a territorial or curiosity response. Early in the season, concentrate on triggering a curiosity, hunger or parental response. Midway through the season, concentrate on triggering a hunger, territorial or parental response. During the late-season, concentrate on triggering a territorial, parental or curiosity response. Lets discuss how to implement this correctly.
Example 1
Its early October and youre headed out to call your favorite piece of ground for the rst time this season. During the rst half of the stand, play a prey-distress
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When calling coyotes, you are playing a sound or sounds that will trigger a response. The four triggers are hunger, curiosity, territorial and parental.
sound. If theres a coyote within an earshot that is hungry or curious, youll get a response. If nothing responds halfway through your stand, switch categories to hopefully elicit a parental response. To do this, pick a sound from the coyote or coyote-pup distress category. Let it play for the remainder of the stand. If there was a coyote within earshot, chances are one of the three triggers you tried to invoke will produce a response.
Example 2
Its late January and youre headed out to call a piece of property that youve already hunted several times. By now many of the coyotes have received some sort of education and are more concerned about repopulating than eating. During the rst few minutes of the stand, use your favorite coyote vocalization sound. Next, switch sounds and pick something from the coyote and coyote-pup distress category. Let that play through the halfway point of your stand and then repeat with coyote vocalizations and more coyote and coyote-pup distress. This accomplishes two things. First, youve played sounds from two different categories, which have the ability to invoke three of the four triggers, which are relative to the corresponding coyote behavior that time of year. Second, youve played sounds that the average coyote hunter hasnt used up to this point in the season. Identify the triggers that you want to invoke and then ring the right dinner bell!
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Calling All Coyotes
Recipes for Success

(call names below are from the FOXPRO library)
Early-Season Enticer (Use mid-September through mid-November) Total Stand Time: 15 minutes Vole Squeaks minutes 0 - 4 Lucky Bird minutes 4 - 9 Coyote Pup Distress #3 minutes 9 - 13 Remain quiet and observant minutes 13 - 15 Mid-Season Mesmerizer (Use mid-November through mid-January) Total stand time: 15 minutes Lightning Jack minutes 0 - 7 Coyote Pup Screams minutes 7 - 13 Remain quiet and observant minutes 13 - 15 Late-Season Love Song (Use mid-January through mid-March) Total stand time: 20 minutes Coyote Locator minutes 0 - 3 Coyote Death Cry minutes 3 - 8 Coyote Pair minutes 8 - 11 Coyote Pup Frenzy minutes 11 - 16 Female Coyote Submissive minute 16 - 18 Remain quiet and observant minute 18 - 20
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Coyote School
62
P. Garrett Leeberg
SCHOOL
Schools in session and an eastern Oregon coyote pro is leading the lesson. Grab your pen and paper and get ready for an education in coyote hunting.
COYOTE
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Windigo Images/Mitch Kezar
ATTENDING A COYOTE-HUNTING SCHOOL WASNT HIGH ON MY MUST-DO LIST UNTIL I HEARD ABOUT ONE OFFERED BY GARY MADISON WHO HAILS FROM BURNS, ORE. Dave Dalton, a friend from work who knows Gary, extolled his coyote-hunting virtues to the point that I had to become a student. I contacted Gary and learned that eastern Oregon has a small human population and a large coyote population, and ranches are measured in miles, not acres. I quickly booked a date for mid December.
Coyote School
the many questions I had. We discussed the importance of good predator-related reading material, including books, various magazines and continuing education in general through means of seminars, lectures and Garys favorite putting boots to the ground.
Field Training
Sleep didnt come easy as I anticipated the mornings hunt. Well before daylight, we were up getting our gear loaded, including two ATVs with which we would cover our hunting area for the next two days. Crystal xed us a great breakfast and we headed south to a private ranch with a healthy population of coyotes. Once at the ranch, it didnt take us long to don our camo, gear up our quads and head out on the prairie. Id never ridden an ATV before, so I was having a blast even before our rst
Coyote school is a great way to learn how to call and kill coyotes, while studying under a veteran coyote hunter who can help shorten the learning curve.
When I arrived at Garys, we went to the range and testred my Howa .223 Rem. rie topped with a Leupold Vari-X 3-9 power scope. The rst shot was too high, so we made some adjustments and headed back to the house for an amazing meal
prepared by Garys wife, Crystal. After dinner, we got into the classroom portion of Garys coyote school. A video serves as a foundation for instruction. Gary would routinely stop the video when he wanted to expand on something or to answer one of
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setup. We went through mud and snow, over rocky ground and hills, much to my delight. The noise from the ATV does not affect the hunting, as the local yotes were used to hearing machines and vehicles on the active ranch. Voices are another matter. Gary was insistent that no talking occurred above a whisper once we were en route to our hunt area. Our rst set was more instructional, as we put to practice the principles discussed the night before. We stopped at an area that was particularly unremarkable to me. It didnt look like a place Id guess to be a bonanza for coyotes, but Gary said it was typical of many areas wed be calling. It was at, open country full of sage and bitterbrush. In the distance we could see the Trout Creek Mountains and various wellknown buttes. Gary checked the wind and
determined what he believed to be the most likely place to summon a coyote. It was there he set his FOXPRO caller to work. He positioned me in front of a sage bush while ensuring that I had nothing in front of me to impede vision or movement. Seated on my Hunters Specialties pad in an area devoid of stickers, pointed rocks or undue mud, I was comfortable and capable of sitting still for 20 minutes or more. Youve got to be comfortable and capable of moving your gun well before we start the call, said Gary. My Howa rie rested on a Stoney Point Rapid Pivot bipod. I purchased the Pivot at Garys behest, as he told me Id be tickled with the results. He was correct. This gem is sweeter than pralines, as it connects to your front stock swivel via a device that comes with shooting sticks. Once we were comfortably set on the ground, Gary became
a screamer beyond belief. I was amazed at the chorus of sound he created using not one, but three different calls, two electronic and one tube. Ive been out before with coyote acionados, but Id never heard a sound quite like this. The electronic calls sang out the dying-rabbit blues in mesmerizing crescendo, and their song was intensied by Garys eventual use of his tube call. As I listened and intensely scanned the horizon as instructed, I couldnt help but think, Wow, this sound is dripping delicious to any coyote that can hear it! I got my rst lesson in coyote hunting early into my class patience. The rst two stands didnt produce a single target, but our third set did. We had been on stand for about 15 minutes when I saw a brown ash to my left. The coyote came in on a rope about 25 yards in
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Coyote School
front of us and stopped about 20 yards from the caller. Being a bowhunter, Im trained to pick a spot and go for the kill instead of watching wildlife. My gun swiveled into position as I selected my point of aim. At the crack of the Howa, the yote spun and started biting at his wound thinking something bit him. The bite of my 50-grain Hornandy bullet proved lethal in less than 10 seconds. Lesson number two came right after the shot keep calling. Gary didnt stop the call, but gave an approving nod. I chambered another round for our next visitor. Gary told me during our classroom session that such action would occur. It is likely that a second or third yote could be with the rst or en route to the call from another direction. We wouldnt want to disappoint a dinner guest with silence. His advice made sense to me, but didnt prove true on this set. After about 10 additional minutes of crying the blues, we shut down the set and proceeded to our prize, a mature male who sported a darker-than-average coat. Gary remarked that the yote died well and guessed his age to be about 3 years. At that point, I was thrilled with the victory and savored the moment. At midday on another set we had another taker. About 20 minutes into the set, a coyote approached from a distant position straight away from us. Gary saw him rst and tried to get my attention in a subtle manner. The screaming was a bit loud for any low-level whisper, so Gary nally exclaimed with authority, Paul! Ones coming! and pointed in the direction. I leaned to my right to see a different angle and picked up the yote coming hard toward the call. He was not as big as the rst one, but I wasnt about to be snide toward his advance. I let some lead y and made good on the rst shot. The song dog went down, but jumped back up like a cocky prizeghter. The rie cracked again, and the sound of the hit echoed our way. The bad boy jumped up again and tried to leave, but the third shot put him down for good. Thats when I realized I just learned my third lesson midday calling is effective, too. Gary continued calling, but Lady Luck would not kiss us again, so we shut down and proceeded to examine our prize. Gary estimated the dog to be a 2-year-old. Although I tried to turn him into burger with my Howa, we found a good photo angle to commemorate the experience. Like a good teacher, Gary would discuss what went well and what didnt after each set. In this case, I had failed to see the
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Coyote School
dog coming, and his signaling could have caused a loss of the opportunity. You know how I knew that coyote was comin in? asked Gary. I shook my head no. Gary indicated that the bird out in front of us told him. He explained that birds will follow coyotes as they travel along the ground. Magpies will utter overhead and reveal their location. Thats how Gary knew a coyote was coming to the call and he saw him before I did. Back at camp, we enjoyed another excellent meal and rehashed the days events. I felt good about the trip so far (getting two coyotes) and what I had learned about predator hunting in general. Let me highlight the salient points of that discussion with emphasis on stand basics.
Camouage
The key is to be as inconspicuous as possible. Wear large-pattern camo that has variable contrasts, which ensures the integrity of your camos effectiveness out to considerable distances. Small patterns fail and make you look like a dark blob at farther distances. Your camo should be made of material that is nonreective and quiet. You want to blend in with your surroundings. In addition, a facemask, cap and gloves also contribute to your invisibility. I prefer to cut a hole in my gloves where my trigger nger can touch the metal trigger without being covered.
Great Line of
Predator Calls
Diaphragm Predator Calls Dying Rabbit Distress Fawn Rodent Squealer Coyote Howler
Choosing A Site
Move quietly to the site while avoiding being sky-lined. Keep talking to a whisper. Pay attention to evidence of coyote presence (tracks, scat) and select a spot with good visibility, even when calling in close areas. You cant kill what you cant see. High ground is ideal for aiding visibility, so use that to your full advantage. The wind direction must receive signicant consideration in determining your site. Because a coyote will come to the call from downwind many times, the ideal site allows you to hold a crosswind position. Place yourself so that a predator must cross your path to reach the sound of the call.
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LIGHTING THE WAY

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Setting Up
Always place your electronic call where you can see it about 25 yards from where you plan to sit. Use a decoy to give a visual conrmation to approaching coyotes. Feathers on a string, a piece of fur or a life-size decoy can distract or lure the dog long enough for you to sling lead. Seat yourself in front of something that breaks up your outline, such as sage or a high
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Coyote School
high bank. Look around to see if anything resembles a coyote, so you wont be moving later to verify a non-coyote shape. Position yourself to sit as still as a rock, yet remain comfortable. If you are right-handed, sit with your gun at the ready, pointing in the vicinity of the call while resting on your shooting sticks. Give yourself position to pivot the gun to your left if need be, and sit the opposite way if you are lefthanded. Start your calling at low volume, as a coyote hears way better than a gossiping neighbor. In fact, they can hear up to a mile (the dog, I mean). A loud call might alert a coyote in close proximity. Increase the call level over a 15- to 20-minute set, if need be, to reach ears in the distance. Scan your eyes back and forth while avoiding head movement. Remain alert at all times and avoid the temptation to snooze. Stay ready! If a coyote does come in and you make a mess of him, dont shut down the call. Keep calling, switching to a pup-indistress sound. A coyote coming from another direction might not identify the location of the gunshot and keep on coming. Youll be ready for a second shot opportunity. If the coyote needs to be stopped to give you a solid shot opportunity, give a bark sound (woof), which will usually stop him. Remember to be quick on the stand with decisions. When a dog is visible, you have about three seconds to make the dispatch or he will become history. Always watch for birds, as they often follow approaching coyotes. Gary said I hold the record for the quickest dog to his call. Without question, Garys coyote school proved to be the best money Ive ever spent on a guide. He and Crystal are friendly, affable folks, eager to ensure that students are treated well. As the experience of their hospitality unfolded, I tried to think of reasons to prolong my stay; it was that good. Their cordial reception made an indelible impression on me. I now consider myself schooled on song dogs.
Going Back to School

If you wish to attend this predator calling and hunting school, contact Gary Madison at gmadison@centurytel.net. Call him at (541) 573-5700. You will have an excellent experience if you listen and observe the master at work.
Conclusion
I concluded my hunt with three coyotes. The third was a large male with a white hue, which came to the call after 40 seconds.
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2014 READERS CHOICE AWARDS

M ARK FIN NELL, CO
MICK PFLUM, IN
M ARK S
, TN ESSIONS
R SAM ME
A EDITH, C
PREDATOR XTREME
TRE X R O T A PRED
R XTREM
ME
BRIAN & DA
NIEL, PA
GARY WILLARD, NM
CHOICE AWARDS
The ballots are in and the votes have been tallied. There were a lot of close races this year. Read on to find out what gear hard-core predator hunters rely on when they are in the field hunting the hunter.
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READERS
PREDATO
READERS CHOICE AWARDS 2014

AR-STYLE RIFLE
GOLD: SILVER: Rock River Arms DPMS
BRONZE: Bushmaster
BOLT-ACTION RIFLE
GOLD: SILVER: Remington Savage Arms
BRONZE: Ruger
SHOTGUN
GOLD: SILVER: Remington Mossberg
BRONZE: Benelli
AIRGUN
GOLD: SILVER: Crosman Gamo
BRONZE: RWS
SHOTSHELLS
GOLD: SILVER: Winchester Remington and Federal tied
BRONZE: Hevi-Shot
BowhuntingWorld.com | ANNUAL 2012
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RIFLE AMMO
GOLD: SILVER: Hornady Winchester BRONZE: Federal and Remington tied
CLEANING KIT
GOLD: SILVER: Hoppes Otis
BRONZE: Outers and J. Dewey Mfg. tied
HUNTING PELLET
GOLD: SILVER: RWS and Crosman tied Gamo
BRONZE: Predator International
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LUBRICANT
GOLD: SILVER: Remington Hoppes BRONZE: Break Free
CLEANING SOLVENT
GOLD: SILVER: Hoppes Butchs Bore Shine
BRONZE: Montana X-Treme
RELOADING BULLETS
GOLD: SILVER: Hornady Sierra
BRONZE: Nosler
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RELOADING COMPONENTS
GOLD: SILVER: CCI RCBS
BRONZE: Hornady
POWDER
GOLD: SILVER: Hodgdon Alliant
BRONZE: Western Powders
AFTERMARKET TRIGGER
GOLD: SILVER: Timney Triggers Jewell Triggers
BRONZE: Geissele Automatics
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SHILEN GREEN MOUNTAIN RIFLE BARRELS
AFTERMARKET BARREL
GOLD: SILVER: Shilen and Green Mtn. Rifle Barrels tied Douglas and Krieger tied
BRONZE: Hart
RIFLE SCOPE
GOLD: SILVER: Leupold Nikon
BRONZE: Burris
RED DOT
GOLD: SILVER: EOTech Aimpoint
BRONZE: Burris
REFLEX SIGHT
GOLD: SILVER: EOTech Burris
BRONZE: Leupold
BINOCULAR NIGHT VISION/THERMAL

GOLD: SILVER: ATN Night Optics USA GOLD: SILVER: Bushnell Leupold and Nikon tied
BRONZE: Swarovski
BRONZE: EOTech and Pulsar tied
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RANGEFINDER
GOLD: SILVER: Bushnell Leupold
BRONZE: Nikon
SPOTTING SCOPE
GOLD: SILVER: Leupold Bushnell
BRONZE: Nikon
ELECTRONIC CALL
GOLD: SILVER: FOXPRO Primos
BRONZE: Johnny Stewart
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SHOOTING STICKS
GOLD: SILVER: Stoney Point Primos
BRONZE: Bog Pod and Vanguard tied
DECOY
GOLD: SILVER: Mojo FOXPRO
BRONZE: Flambeau
SHOTGUN CHOKE TUBE

GOLD: SILVER: Carlsons Briley
MOUTH CALL
GOLD: SILVER: Primos Critr Call
BRONZE: Kicks
BRONZE: Knight & Hale
SHOOTING BENCH
GOLD: SILVER: Caldwell RCBS
SHOOTING TARGET
GOLD: SILVER: Birchwood Casey Caldwell
BRONZE: Shooting Bench USA
BRONZE: Champion
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GUN SAFE
GOLD: SILVER: tied. Liberty Safe Cannon
GUN CASE
GOLD: SILVER: Plano Allen
BRONZE: Stack On and Browning
BRONZE: Boyt
BIPODS/TRIPODS
GOLD: SILVER: Harris Engineering Caldwell and Bog Pod tied
BRONZE: Vanguard
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BOOTS
GOLD: SILVER: Rocky Danner BRONZE: LaCrosse
OUTERWEAR
GOLD: SILVER: Under Armour Carhartt
BRONZE: Filson
CAMO PATTERN
GOLD: SILVER: Realtree Mossy Oak
BRONZE: Natural Gear
HUNTING VEST/BACKPACK
GOLD: SILVER: Badlands Primos
BRONZE: FOXPRO and Eberlestock tied
SCENT ELIMINATION
GOLD: SILVER: Hunters Specialties Wildlife Research Center
BRONZE: Dead Down Wind
MISTING SCENT
GOLD: SILVER: Tinks Porath
BRONZE: Buck Bomb
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ATTRACTANT SCENT
GOLD: SILVER: Tinks H. S. (Hunters Specialties)
BRONZE: Code Blue
GROUND BLIND
GOLD: SILVER: Ameristep Primos Double Bull
BRONZE: Ghilliesuits.com
TRAIL CAM
GOLD: SILVER: Moultrie Bushnell
BRONZE: Cuddeback
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KNIFE
GOLD: SILVER: Buck Case BRONZE: Gerber
GPS
GOLD: SILVER: Garmin Magellan
FAVORITE NEW PRODUCT

GOLD: SILVER: FOXPRO Shockwave and Winchester 17 Super Mag tied Wicked Lights
BRONZE: Bushnell
BRONZE: Vortex and Mojo Supercritter tied
FAVORITE PREDATOR HUNTING RETAILER

GOLD: SILVER: All Predator Calls Cabelas
BRONZE: Midway
FAVORITE HUNTING VIDEO

GOLD: SILVER: Primos The TRUTH Series Coming To The Call (Byron South) and FOXPROs Desert in Distress tied
BRONZE: Catastrophic (Burnham Brothers)
FAVORITE PREDATOR MAGAZINE

GOLD: SILVER: Predator Xtreme Varmint Hunter
BRONZE: Fur-Fish-Game
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FAVORITE PREDATOR XTREME ARTICLE

GOLD: SILVER: Caller For Hire: Tom Austin Airgun Advantage
BRONZE: Lead Dog
FAVORITE PREDATOR XTREME WRITER

GOLD: SILVER: Tom Austin Jim Chapman
BRONZE: Bob Robb
FAVORITE PREDATOR TV SHOW

GOLD: SILVER: FOXPRO Furtakers Predator Quest
BRONZE: Predator Pursuit
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HOT TIPS Joe Bradshaw
CALLING IN MULTIPLES
I RECENTLY CALLED A SPOT BY MYSELF AND FIVE COYOTES CAME IN TOGETHER. As it happened, I stuck to my plan and managed to kill two of the five. It should have been three, but I will take two. Its not common in our area of Arkansas to call in more than three on a stand, so needless to say, I was surprised when five came charging in. I shot the farthest one first, allowing me time to get a second before the others could get out of range. Coyotes dont normally give you time for indecision, so again I say, have a plan before the opportunity arrives. There are a couple of schools of thought when dealing with multiples. One school of thought is to take the sure thing. That is, take the sure shot on the closest coyote, get that one for certain, and hope to get another. There is nothing wrong with that line of thinking, though I personally feel there is a better way. My personal plan is to get the farthest coyote first, then get the
Always go to the ki-ki or pup-distress sound after the first shot. It will often stop the other coyote or coyotes so you can make another shot.
next one. This allows you to make the hardest shot first, and the closer coyote(s) have farther to go to get away, giving you more time to collect another. Always go to a ki-yi or pup-distress sound immediately after the first shot. Many times this will stop another
When multiples come charging in, the author tries to shoot the farthest coyote first. Then the more difficult moving targets are a closer shot.
coyote after the shot, allowing you to get more than one. Another very important matter to attend to beforehand is that when you hunt with a partner, be certain you each know which coyote is yours. On more than one occasion we have called in a group of coyotes only to find two of us shoot the same coyote. Normally, it is best if the person on the left shoots the coyote on the left and vice versa. If one is a much better shot than another member of the party, it is beneficial if he takes the farthest of the group. Its not important who shoots what, as long as everyone knows which coyote to shoot. Whatever works for you is fine, as long as you all know ahead of time what is expected of you. Take the time to get everyone on the same sheet of music before the hunt. If you do, it will pay dividends with more fur on the ground. Good hunting!
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PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE DAVID HART
NORTHWEST COLORADO PUBLIC-LAND COYOTES
Maybell, Colorado
THE MAP SPREAD ACROSS THE HOOD OF MY COUSINS TRUCK IS AWASH IN YELLOW. Blue squares and rectangles are scattered about. So are odd shapes of white, rectangles and jutting squares that appear to be part of some sort of electronic game of blocks. A wash of purple stretches across the bottom right corner, a splash of green on the right edge, three blue ribbons snake their way across the paper. We are studying a land status map of northwest Colorado, a massive region of high desert transected by two rivers and one that forms the southern border. Blue squares indicate state school trust land. The purple shows Dinosaur National Monument and the green a national wildlife refuge along the Green River. Some of those white
squares, private ground, are surrounded by a vast field of yellow, land owned by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). Its that yellow we are studying as we trace red lines indicating roads and obscure four-wheel-drive trails. For the past five days, my cousin Shannon and I have been hiking up and down juniper-studded slopes and glassing vast stretches of sage flats in search of a bull elk. It took me 22 years to draw a tag in Unit 2, one of the most coveted tags in the country in one of the best public elk hunting areas. Three days into the hunt, I punched my tag on a monster bull. That left me three more days before I had to catch
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FAST FACTS
LOCATION: Moffat County, Colo., is located in the upper northwest corner of the state. It is bordered by Wyoming and Utah. Dinosaur National Monument stretches across much of the southern boundary of the area, which is closed to hunting. ACCOMMODATIONS: The county population is about 14,000, but most residents live in and around Craig, the county seat and the largest town in the region. Maybell, Colo., is the closest town near the bulk of the public land. However, it consists of a handful of houses, a gas station/convea plane home from Denver. Whats a man armed with free time, a rifle and surplus ammo supposed to do? The answer was obvious; elk arent the only game in this area. Coyotes are abundantly scattered about, too. That became obvious two days before elk season opened when my cousin and I were scouring the landscape for elk sign. An hour after we split up to glass different valleys on the first day of scouting, I heard two shots ring out from the general direction of my cousins truck. I heard coyotes howling, so I went back to the truck and got my call and rifle, said Shannon. Two came running in almost before I put my call down. He dumped the first one just 25 yards from where he sat; the second one turned to run. It didnt make it very far. Both trotted off private ground we skirted in our effort to find elk. Once I punched my elk tag, my cousin and I shifted our attention to coyotes. Finding
nience store, a post office and a few other businesses. The town does have a clean, affordable campground with showers and full hook-ups. Camping is available throughout the BLM land, but there is no potable water. LICENSE INFORMATION: Annual nonresident small game or furbearer license: $56 Habitat stamp (required for all hunters and anglers): $10 NEED TO KNOW: Most of the region is BLM land, but private property is scattered throughout. Get a land status map and pay attention to property boundaries. A GPS loaded with the perfect places to call was simply a matter of studying the map. Sometimes it took little more than windshield time and an eye on the landscape to find what we were looking for. Other stands were the result of careful consideration of terrain, proximity to private land (and cattle) or distance from the few well-traveled roads in the area. The only problem? It all looks good. But with 1,200 square miles of mostly public land, thats not really a problem. We didnt find a coyote at every stand. In fact, some areas creek bottoms that held water and rough country far away from public roads, for instance looked like they should have been crawling with coyotes. Despite our best effort, some spots simply didnt surrender even a sighting. But thats predator hunting, isnt it? The region is ideal coyote country: a vast mix of rolling hills, rugged and remote draws, large flats and rough
land status software will help you navigate around posted ground. County roads are gravel, but trails that cut across BLM land are dirt and can get nasty in wet weather. Some BLM roads cut across private property. It is illegal to drive across private ground to access public land. Four-wheel drive isnt mandatory, but it can help. RESOURCES: Colorado Division of Wildlife: www.wildlife.state.co.us Bureau of Land Management Craig, Colorado: www.blm. gov/co/st/en/fo/lsfo.html Craig, Colorado: www.craig-chamber.com
mountains that hold lots of elk, some mule deer and a handful of antelope. Juniper trees dominate the landscape, but tall pines dot the higher elevations and sagebrush and grass flats are scattered throughout. Water, however, is scarce. Most of it ponds, a few creeks and three rivers lies on the white, purple or green blocks on the map, but in many instances, huntable land comes close to the water. A few ponds and creeks are actually on public ground. Thats a good place to start. Water isnt just important to coyotes, its vital to the things that coyotes eat, including cattle. Coyotes shadow cows as they wait to pick off wayward calves or lame adults. Ranchers do run their herds on public ground, but those landowners who keep cows on their own property can be willing, even grateful, for a coyote hunter to keep the predators in check. Because its a mix of private and BLM land open to the
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PASSPORT TO ADVENTURE
Northwest Colorado is littered with public land that is full of coyotes.
public, the region is laced with everything from rogue ATV trails to semi-improved roads maintained by landowners and the federal government. Thats not ideal for coyotes, which tend to shy away from human intrusion. The good news is that with one of the low-
est human population densities in the entire state, along with extremely light hunting pressure, the coyotes dont seem to mind those trails. We learned that after my cousin and I made a quick stand at the intersection of two Jeep trails, both with fresh tire tracks
in them. A coyote trotted in within five minutes of our first calls. The dog circled downwind through the dense waist-high sagebrush, offering only intermittent glimpses of his ears as he bounced through the cover. There was no doubt he would soon wind us and disappear. I considered a Hail Mary through the brush as I tracked the coyote in the scope, but there was no point in crippling an animal, not even an animal as reviled by some as a coyote. I backed off the trigger, lifted my head and watched it wheel and run through the sage. It might be a long time before I draw another elk tag, but I wont have to wait 22 years for another opportunity to hunt coyotes in northwest Colorado. All I have to do is buy a license and study a map.
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SHOPPERS GUIDE
Liberty ammunition
Liberty Ammunition has announced a second shift for production of ammunition. The .223 Silverado ammunition, Libertys first round in its new hunting line, is included in the increased production runs. The high demand for quality, American-made ammunition has increased over the past several months as several states have legislated strict laws regulating lead in traditional ammunition and California being the first state to ban lead ammunition.Libertys high-performance, leadfree ammunition has twice the effective range of standard ammo, provides up to 16% less felt recoil and is considerably lighter weight when carried in loaded magazines. www.libertyammo.com polymer tip which improves upon external ballistics by increasing ballistic coefficient from .373 to .420. The tip also improves terminal ballistics by increasing uniformity of performance and penetration when the projectile arrives on target. represents the proprietary chemistry named Copper Fouling Eraser, was developed for U.S. rapid fire military systems. Whatever your game is as a top gun competitor or target plinker you will benefit significantly with longer periods of top accuracy with less barrel cleaning time and minimal muzzle flash. www.hodgdon.com
www.black-hills.com
dillon Precision Products

Dillon Precision Products XL 650 progressive reloader uses standard 7/8-inch by 14 dies, has a loading rate of up to 1,000 rounds per hour, comes with one caliber conversion, and features automatic indexing, powder measure and primer systems and, most important, Dillons famous lifetime No-B.S. Warranty. If youre serious about shooting, its time to get serious about reloading. 800-223-4570; www.dillonprecision.com
redding reloading
The 17 Hornet is the hottest new cartridge of the year and handloaders are excited to get going on load development. A serious problem is the apparent lack of a high precision BR type of powder measure to handle the very light charge weights. Redding solves this by offering their Competition Model 10x Powder measure, which has an operating range from 1 grain to approximately 25 grains of powder. 607-753-3331 www.redding-reloading.com
wolf ammunition
WOLF Performance Ammunition announces that its Brass case .223 REM. FMJ is now available. As with all WOLF GOLD calibers the .223 Rem. offers premium performance in a reloadable case. The characteristics of the .223 REM FMJ are: 55 gr, Copper jacket, Boxer primed with a Muzzle Velocity of 3240 feet per second. 888-757-WOLF (9653) www. wolfammo.com
Neco
NEW! NECO DaVinci Precision CNC Turned Soft Brass Match-Grade Bullets. VLD Design.Extremely Close Tolerances for Superior Accuracy. High B.C. High lubricity compared to copper. Precision Meplate with precise Hollow Point. Jacketed bullets cannot match CNC consistency. Available in .264 dia. 107 grain and 120 grain. 800-451-3550; www.neconos.com
K&m Products
K&M offers many precision tools for handloading. K&Ms inside neck deburring tool deburrs without leaving a wire-edge, is infinitely adjustable, and is guided. K&Ms flash hole deburring tool is equally excellent. The most popular tool is the outsideneck-turner (ONT) with the Dreaded Donut Remover pilot (removes pinch inside base of neck). Not only does the K&M ONT system allow one to size necks perfectly for ideal, concentric turning, but it also provides for precise and repeatable turned-neck thickness. 616-399-7894; www.kmshooting.com
Lightield ammunition
Lightfield Ammunition is causing hunters to squeal with delight because of the new 12-gauge tactical Boar-Buster sabot round. Packing a 465-grain pure lead slug that shoots flatter than a Kansas parking lot, this controlled-expansion slug uses an impactdiscarding sabot to punch through the thickest hide and bone, sending those tough tuskers off to hog heaven. Leaving the shotgun muzzle at 1600 feet-per-second, the Boar-Buster puts porkers in danger at distances that arent normally considered shotgun territory. Boasting over 2600 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle, the Boar-Buster retains more than 1000 pounds of hard-hitting impact at 100 yards.
ProGrade ammunition
ProGrade Range Grade Ammunition is a handpicked selection of ammunition chosen with the range and recreational shooter in mind. Delivering repeated consistency and accuracy, bullets in this series promise not to break the bank, an important factor when getting acquainted with a new firearm or spending a long day at the range refining your shot. The ProGrade Range Grade series includes a wide variety of calibers and bullet weights including an extensive range of lead-free frangible ammunitions. Like all ammunition selected by ProGrade, Range Grade rounds are loaded in the United States with the tightest tolerances in the industry. 435-865-5995; www.progradeammo.com
western Powders
Western Powders is pleased to announce the release of its new Reloading and Load Data Guide, Edition 5.0. With a new style and format, our guide provides data for some of the newest cartridges and powders, along with expanded sections for old favorites. The manual also features Blackhorn 209 in both muzzleloaders and classic black powder metallic cartridges. You can order the guide for $2.99 (to cover shipping and handling) at www.westernpowders.com
www.litd.com
black Hills ammunition

Black Hills has expanded its popular line of 5.56mm ammunition. Sierra 77-grain MatchKing bullets set the standard for long range accuracy in .223 and 5.56. World records have been set with those bullets, and MK262 ammunition loaded by Black Hills using MatchKing bullets has provided significantly increased capability to our nations Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines. Sierra further refined this bullet with the addition of a
Hodgdon Powder
Hodgdon announces a new addition to the CFE family of propellants called CFE PISTOL. Just like its rifle powder counterpart, CFE223, CFEPISTOL greatly deters copper fouling round after round! CFE, which
atK/Federal ammunition
Varmint and small game hunters require an accurate load that downs the critter in ts tracks. Two new offerings in the Federal Premium V-Shok lineup
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www.PredatorXtreme.com February 2014
Ammo & ReloAding

are ideal for small, wary critters. Both have color-coded polymer tips for rapid expansion and easy identification. Choices include a 40-grain .204 Ruger and a 55-grain .22-250 Remington that feature a boattail design for rapid expansion and maximum energy dump, a polymer tip for accuracy (sub MOA in factory tests), a tapered jacket, and improved ballistic coefficient. www.federalpremium.com ammunition and are offered in either jacketed hollow point or polymer tipped configuration. Nosler DEFENSE rifle ammunition will be offered in .223 Remington and loaded with the .224 caliber, 64-grain Bonded PERFORMANCE bullet that is designed for 90 percent weight retention, minimal deflection and true, straight-line penetration. 800-285-3701, www.nosler.com made us what we are. Today, we provide shooting and reloading products worldwide and are one of the largest distributors of powder and primers in the United States. We proudly import Lapua ammunition and components from Finland and Cheddite shotgun primers and hulls from France. Over 20,000 products from over 150 manufacturers ship to you directly from our warehouse. 800-531-2666; www.grafs.com
Precision relex
The PRI Run Out Rig (ROR) is a simple to use, rugged device that measures the concentricity or alignment of the bullet to the cartridge case and gives the user the means to correct the bullet alignment. Locating from the bullet tip and the base rim, the ROR is able to check and correct cartridges from the .221 Fireball to the .50 BMG. Cut your cost by improving cheaper ammos accuracy and tighten groups. 419-629-2603; www. precisionreex.com
Predator International
Predator International, said that the hottest category within the air gun industry is the larger caliber guns. Last year the .25 caliber guns took off like crazy and this year he expects the .30 and .35 caliber guns to do the same. He said that JSB, a Czech based manufacturer of high quality pellets, has begun manufacturing the .30 and .35 caliber pellets to match the demand created by these new monster air guns.
winchester
Coyote and varmint hunters all over North America are howling in approval of Varmint X, the new line of predator and varmint ammunition from Winchester. Varmint X combines the legendary excellence for which Winchester is known with todays latest technology, resulting in a cartridge designed specifically for the demands of predator and varmint hunters. just in time for prime coyote hunting. www.winchester.com
Nosler Inc.
Nosler Inc., announces its new Nosler DEFENSE line of handgun and rifle ammunition loaded with Noslers new Bonded PERFORMANCE bullets. Handgun bullets will be available in Nosler DEFENSE handgun
www.predatorpellets.com
Graf & Sons

In 1957, Graf & Sons started as a small retail gun store in Mexico, Missouri. As our reputation spread and our business grew, we stayed true to the industry and customers that
armscor
Armscor is a leading supplier of .223 REM ammunition for Bolt Action Varmint Rifles and the popular semi-automatic AR-15 Platform. Perfect for law enforcement, home defense,
www.PredatorXtreme.com february 2014
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SHOPPERS GUIDE
the Armscor .223 REM is also a popular and costeffective choice for avid target shooters. Armscor offers the .223 in both FullMetal-Jacket and Soft-Point Bullet options. www.armscorusa.com
barnes bullets
Barnes Bullets LLC is proud to announce a new 120 grain offering in addition to the current 110 grain TAC-TX in VORTX Ammunition and component lines. The new products will be made available in February 2014. Features of the 120 grain TAC-TX include a specially designed profile that ensures flawless magazine-length loading in AR rifles, a boattail base to increase the ballistic coefficient and the proven solid-copper construction pioneered by Barnes that ensures consistent terminal performance through barriers and thick skinned game making it an excellent choice for big game hunting as well as defense initiatives. www.barnesbullets.com
and other items for the popular Modern Sporting Rifle platform. The now-famous Brownells Dream Guns also appear in the catalog to help give customers ideas for personalizing their AR-platform rifles. To receive a catalog free of charge, simply visit the catalog section of the Brownells website. 800741-0015; www.brownells.com
Hornady
The Lock-N-Load Rifle Bullet Feeder is designed for the Lock-N-Load AP reloading press. Sold as a complete unit for 22 caliber bullets, a conversion kit for 30 caliber bullets is also available, giving the reloader the versatility to load the two most popular calibers. Plus, its compatible with other presses and uses the industry standard 7814 die threads. The Bullet Feeder Die is case activated; the bullet will only feed upon contact with the case. One station is used to feed, seat and crimp the bullet. Turn your progressive reloading press into a bench mounted ammo factory! www.hornady. com
american tactical Imports

American Tactical Imports is proud to announce its exclusive distribution of Ted Nugent Hi-Performance Hunting Ammunition. Pierce Munitions, LLC of Buffalo, NY has entered an exclusive agreement to manufacture the high performance hunting ammunition for avid hunter and music legend Ted Nugent. Under the Nugent Brand, Pierce will manufacture the most popular calibers of hunting ammunition. They plan to produce hand gun hunting ammunition in .357 magnum, 10mm, 44 magnum and 45 Long Colt as well as various hunting rifle ammunition from the .223, 308, 30-30, 243, 30-06, 270, 300 Win Mag and the 50 cal. BMG. www.AmericanTactical.us.
brownells
With a majority of its AR-15 parts and accessories in-stock and ready to ship, Brownells The Worlds Largest Supplier of Firearms Accessories, Ammunition and Gunsmithing Tools is proud to announce its long-awaited AR-15 Catalog #9 has been released. AR-15 #9 is packed with more than 2,600 of the newest and best-selling optics, accessories, magazines,
remington
Remingtons Hog Hammer line will be loaded for the .223 Rem., .300 Blackout, .30 Remington AR, .30-30 Win., .30-06 Sprg., .
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new products
.308 Win. and the .450 Bushmaster. The entire Hog Hammer line is loaded with the well-known Barnes Triple Shock bullet, which offers deep penetration and near double diameter expansion. www.remington.com smooth and stable movement from extreme angles left to right with minimal body movement. Combined with a tension adjustable up/down tilt function, the rest easily allows for precise alignment across the entire range of possible shooting angles. The upper portion of the rest adjusts in length and balance point to accommodate any gun or crossbow. The universal mounting base consists of two steel plates and a height adjustable center support shaft that securely attach to most any tree stand platform. 877-509-9160; www.CaldwellShooting.com This new Single Rifle Case is also available in 3i-4909-SR-T Tan or 3i-4909-SR-M Military Green and is made in the USA. 800-654-5992; www.skbcases.com/sports
utG
The D-grip quick release bipod grip from UTG is a foregrip that transforms into a bipod in a matter of seconds, perfect for taking the shooter out of a CQB environment and propelling them into one that requires precise long range shooting. The deployable legs fold out from the back with the push of a button. This grip is extremely durable too. Aside from being a heavy duty bipod, the foregrip is extremely comfortable with state-ofthe-art ergonomics and provides a non-slip grip with its rubberized surface. www.leapers.com
Sierra bullets
Customers have been asking us for years to make a 6.5mm and 7mm version of our very popular 30 caliber 165-grain HPBT GameKing and we are happy to say we have fulfilled that request. Just like their 30-caliber cousin, these bullets will be ideal for midsized game with standard and magnum calibers. The thicker jacket promotes deep penetration while the skives at the meplat provide reliable expansion. 800-223-8799; sierra@sierrabullets.com
SKb Gun cases

SKB has added another new size to the iSeries Watertight cases, the 3i-4909-5. This new MIL-STD injection molded case lends itself perfectly for the new Watertight Single Rifle Case the 3i-4909-SR. The interior of the new 4909-SR Watertight Injection Molded Single Rifle Case measures 49 x 9 x 5 and features an EPS and convoluted foam base with convoluted foam in the lid for stable positioning of your rifle with plenty of room for additional accessories.
caldwell Shooting Supply
New ProductS
The DeadShot TreePod provides true benchrest accuracy from any treestand. The innovative multi bearing swing arm system provides
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SHOPPERS GUIDE
NEW PRODUCTS
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outpost
Feather light carbon fiber bi-pods Simple Fast Effective Quick attach snow baskets Two models available
For more info call Brent Gandy@(863) 412-4024
www.jbprooutfitters.com
Eliminate the Enemy - Recoil
NEW! Tactical Rie Brake Reduce Recoil by 65% on most .30 Caliber Ries!
$210.00
Dealer pricing available
Williams Guide Series Brakes are blended to your Barrels contour so they look like part of the barrel. We also carry AR-15 & AR-10 Brakes. Varmint Brakes and Guide Series Brakes are available for the same low price. No gunsmithing AR Brakes .223 and .308 are $95.00. Custom Gunsmithing and Repair Services.
Williams Gunsight Co 7389 Lapeer Rd PO Box 329 Davison MI 48423 800-530-9028 810-653-2131 www.williamsgunsight.com
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Unlimited shooting on several of Wyomings premiere dog hunting towns 300 to 500 shots a day! LodgingisunlimitedinSheridan Other Hunts Available
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DCPC Varmint Hunts

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Ivans Bed & Breakfast

Predator Hunting & Bonus Merriams Turkey Hunts Available October through March Spring Turkey Hunts April through May Close to the Black Hills South Dakota Great Lodging & Awesome Meals Call Ivan @ 605-791-3273 Visit Us at: www.IvansBedAndBreakfast.com www.PredatorXtreme.com february 2014
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THE LAST WORD
JUDD COONEY
PREDATOR HUNTING IS CHANGING. ARE YOU?

THE RANCHER SMILED AS I ASKED IF HED BEEN HEARING ANY COYOTES. Nope, but Ive heard about every predator-calling sound that can be made from the vehicles that park on the point down the road and call up the valley every weekend. Never have heard a shot or had a single hunter stop by to ask permission, like you do. Several times when they try howling for a few minutes, and then leave, the coyotes start up behind the house, but theyre long gone by then. Normally, Id drive a quarter mile up the valley across the road from the house, park in a deep draw and call from the top of a ridge with a panoramic view of the cedar and sage brush-covered valley. Over the 20 years of calling there, Ive killed many coyotes. However, times and predator-hunter pressure have changed things, and the last couple times Id called my favorite spot I got zero response. Until I talked with the rancher, I didnt realize there had been as much calling activity off the road. Heeding the ranchers information, I changed tactics and got permission to drive through the ranch yard and go behind the house, where Id never called previously. An hour later I stopped back by the house with two prime Colorado coyotes that I called in 400 yards above his house. Byron South and Al Morris are both full-time predator hunters and videographers that hunt coyotes and other predators from one end of the country to the other year-round. Byron, a Texas resident, works with MOJO callers and other predator-equipment companies, and Al, residing in Utah, is on FOXPROs staff. Both of these hard-core predator hunters and longtime friends readily agree that predator hunting across the country is definitely changing. The proliferation of neophyte predator hunters, many utilizing electronic callers, is without a doubt creating the biggest change in predator hunting across the nation. Predators are adaptable, quick learners and survival-oriented critters that seem to be learning hunter avoidance and survival at a faster rate than modern predator hunters are learning how to effectively out predator the four-legged hunters. A predator or predators that survives an encounter with a hunter or hunters or is pressured by human encroachment quickly becomes spooky, more wary. Adults can impart this learned leeriness to younger companions, creating much tougher adversaries for subsequent hunters. Throughout much of the country the loss of habitat through human encroachment in the form of sub-divisions and expanding city and town boundaries has cut down on some prime predator habitat. In the West, another factor that is making predator hunting a changing proposition is the fact that the U.S. Forest Service is locking access to a hell of a lot of prime predator country during the late fall and winter months. In my area of southwestern Colorado, all the forest service access roads have gates on them where they meet the state highways and county roads. All these access roads are closed right after big-game season. This is done in the guise of protecting the roads from damage, which is pure hogwash! In the 43 years Ive lived here I can count on one hand the number of times Ive seen a maintainer on most of the forest service back roads. Many of the road closures are done simply because they can, and the Game and Fish Division goes along with this travesty, so they dont have to patrol so much country and get out in the inclement weather. Public land my butt! According to Big Al, there will always be predators to hunt because new litters of uneducated pups are born each spring, but the predator hunter that wants to be successful when the fur is prime late in the season better learn to hunt smarter and harder than in the past. Al is a firm believer in trying and constantly perfecting new distress calls, and one of the most effective innovations hes found on the new FOXPRO SHOCKWAVE call is the ability of the caller to adjust the pitch of the various sounds. Hes found that on some days, a high-pitched distress sound will work and on the next day, a low-pitched sound seems to be more effective. For coyotes, Al makes use of non-aggressive howls mixed with prey-distress sounds and told me he has been using a diaphragm turkey call to imitate coyote howls, as he gets far more variety in his howling with the diaphragm. Works great! Byron feels that patience is the best weapon for todays predator-hunting success, from taking the time to thoroughly scout your calling area to locating predators and taking time to get close before making the first sound. He uses the new MOJO Double Trouble caller with attached gyrating decoy in continuous mode. If he doesnt get results after a half hour, hell turn the caller off and patiently wait for up to an hour. According to Byron, a call- or hunter-shy, wary coyote will often get curious and come for a look hopefully his last. Predator hunting has definitely changed, but if you change tactics and hunt smarter with more patience and perseverance, your success against these canny, four-legged carnivores should make the extra effort well worthwhile.
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A P Ri ulsa e r PA sc N 7 GE o 16 pe 50 !

RRA Predator Pursuit Tested

2014 READERS AWARD WINCHOICE NERS

Volume 15, Issue 1

COLUMNS 6 Letter To The Reader

DEPARTMENTS Hot Tips 86 Calling In Multiples

52 Calling All Coyotes

Coydogs: More Myth Than Reality? By Patrick Durkin

22 Inside The Den

30 Airgun Advantage Black Guns!

36 All About Guns

40 Caller For Hire Solo Song Dogger

100 The Last Word Predator Hunting Is Changing. Are You?

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ORDER ONLINE TODAY!

ADVERTISING SALES MANAGERS Jonathan Edwards Don Harris

. PO Box 423 . Valentine, NE 69201

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LETTER TO THE READER

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FROM THE READERS

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JOIN THE DISCUSSION!

CALIFORNIA CITY TO SHOOT PIGS

COYOTE CULL HELPS ARIZONA ANTELOPE

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COYOTE LOTTERY WIN! A PULSAR N750

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INSIDE THE DEN Patrick Durkin

PRO STAFF PATRICK DURKIN:

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INSIDE THE DEN

STUDYING THE COYDOG

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INSIDE THE DEN

ERA OF DNA TESTING

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INSIDE THE DEN

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AIRGUN ADVANTAGE Jim Chapman

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ALL ABOUT GUNS Scott Mayer

ROCK RIVER ARMS 16-INCH MID PREDATOR PURSUIT

PRO STAFF SCOTT MAYER:

NOT A WALK-AROUND GUN, BUT

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ALL ABOUT GUNS

CONCLUSION ON THE RANGE

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CALLER FOR HIRE Tom Austin

SOLO SONG DOGGER

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CALLER FOR HIRE

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Heres a look at the newest crop of optics.

Gen 2 Lightweight Ghillie Removable Mosquito Net Zippered pockets Water-proof