Saturday, April 28, 2012

Be Safe and Good Luck Today

Know the Law...



Spring Gobbler Season:

April 28- May 31, 2012

Statewide. Only turkeys with visible beards are legal. Hunting by calling only—no stalking —one-half hour before sunrise until noon from April 28 through May 12, and then from one-half hour before sunrise to onehalf hour after sunset from May 14 through May 31. Hunters are asked to be out of the woods by 1 p.m when closing hours are noon.

Regulations:

In both spring and fall seasons, it is unlawful to possess or use live turkeys as decoys, or to drive or use electronic callers or devices. Dogs can be used to hunt turkeys during the fall season but not during the spring.

Blinds:

The use of turkey blinds is legal under the following definition: Any artificial or manufactured turkey blind consisting of all man-made materials of sufficient density to block the detection of movement within the blind from an observer outside the blind. Artificial or manufactured turkey blinds consisting of all man-made materials means blinds must be constructed of plastic, nylon, canvas, cotton cloth, plywood or other manmade materials. Blinds made by piling rocks, logs, branches, etc. are unlawful.
The blind must completely enclose the hunter on all four sides and from above to block the detection of movement within the blind. When fluorescent orange is required at a stationary calling location in fall seasons, at least 100 square inches must be displayed outside the blind and within 15 feet of the blind, visible 360 degrees.

Spring Gobbler Season:
Arms & Ammunition:
1) Manually operated and semi-automatic shotguns limited to a 3-shell capacity in the chamber and magazine combined;
2) Muzzleloading shotguns of all types and gauges;
3) Long, recurve, compound bows or crossbows with cutting-edge broadheads.

Fine shot no larger than No. 4 lead, No. 2 steel or No. 4 of any other approved nontoxic shot. Rifle/shotgun combination guns may be used if ammunition is limited to shotgun shells. Carrying or using single projectile ammunition, rifles or handguns is unlawful.

Fluorescent Orange Requirements:
Spring Season: Fluorescent orange is no longer required but is recommended when moving through the spring woods.

Tagging, Reporting Requirements:

Successful turkey hunters must follow all instructions printed on tags supplied with licenses. Separate tags are provided for fall and spring seasons. The turkey must be tagged immediately after harvest and before the carcass is moved. The tag must be securely attached to a leg until the bird is prepared for consumption or mounting. Once you have used your tag it is unlawful to possess it in the field.



Thursday, April 26, 2012

No More Dull Blades


The Havalon Piranta knife... always have a razor sharp blade. 
  • surgically-sharp replaceable blades
  • easy-to-find blaze orange handle
  • Each knife includes 12 additional stainless steel #60XT blades
  • overall length of the knife open is 7-1/4"
  • easy-grip black rubber inlay, liner-lock construction and pocket clip

I just bought this knife and love it.  I can't wait to try it on a spring gobbler.

Tuesday, April 24, 2012

One Wounded Warrior’s Hunt Of a Lifetime

By SFC Ronnie Gullion



I met Jimmy “the Mullet” and his business partner Mikeyduring a Wounded Warrior hunt at Smart Ranch Exotics in Texas.  They asked me to choose one of the well-deserving heroes hunting with me for a bonus Asiatic water buffalo hunt.

You see, Mullet man and Mikey are representatives of Darkwoods Blinds and were at the Smart Ranch to shoot some promotional videos for their exceptional handicapped-accessible ground blinds.  I did not want the pressure of choosing just one soldier to take part in this remarkable opportunity. I simply did not want to be the one to decide who’d get to experience the hunt of their lifetime and who would be disappointed. 

I suggested that we leave it to luck or fate. I told all of the more-than-willing hunters to put their military identification cards into a hat and let Jimmy pull out the lucky one.  Although I’m a Wounded Warrior as well, I was somewhat reluctant to place my ID into the hat because my hunting companions were also my heroes, and I wanted one of them to win the hunt.  With some poking, prodding and an order from my former Command Sergeant Major David Allard, I placed my ID into the hat as well.  Out of all of the IDs in the hat,of course, mine was drawn. Although I desperately wanted to participate in the hunt, I really wanted one of my guys to have the experience. I thought about giving the hunt to someone else, but that would have put me back into my original position of having to choose one person 

Jimmy and the others could see the guilt on my face and reassured me that they were glad that my name was chosen.  Jimmy then suggested we go out and do a little bit of scouting to get a glance at the animals I’d be hunting.  We all jumped into some trucks and headed out in search of buffalo.

Excitement and Apprehension

I could not have been more intimidated or excited when I finally laid my eyes on the biggest, most intimidating animal I have ever hunted.  I am just a mere country boy from Indiana who avidly hunts deer, turkey and an occasional enemy to our great country. The size of that animal intimidated me more than looking into the eyes of our enemy.  I knew at first glance how fortunate I was to be able to hunt this great being, and I no longer felt guilty or willing to give up this opportunity.

Once we arrived back to the camp, I was bombarded with well wishes and of course ribbing from my friends.  When I was offered the choice to hunt with a bow or a muzzleloader, it was a no-brainer for me to choose the bow. I wanted to take it to the highest level of difficulty so that I could experience the most intense rush. 

I was offered an Alpine bow, and in my excitement, I forgot to mention that I shot left-handed. I attempted to shoot the right-handed bow, but I did not feel comfortable despite hitting a decent group at 20 yards.  I knew I was about to go after one of the most aggressive animals on this planet, and I wanted to get it right.

I tried to shoot the bow left-handed, and thanks to the Alpine’s anti-torque guard and the Hindsight peep-less sight system, I felt comfortable and fired an arrow downrange.  Bulls-eye!  I shot my second arrow right into my first arrow. I was stoked. I moved out to 35 yards and practiced some more while growing accustomed to my new top-of-the-line shooting instrument.

The next morning we headed to the Darkwoods Blind that was strategically placed next to the watering hole.  But, much to our dismay, a heavy rain the previous night created numerous mud holes throughout the Smart Ranch, which prevented the buffalo from returning to the main watering hole. 

We waited and then watched as they arrived in the general area in an intimidating fashion, but they didn’t move close enough to present me with a clean shot before I had to return to camp.  I tried again that evening,but it just wasn’t in the cards.  The buffalo remained out of range even though the blind was well hidden from their sight.

Change of Plans

I had one day left to pull off the hunt, so we went on another scouting adventure with the hopes that the buffalo would head to the watering hole where the blind was located.  While scouting, we devised a simpler plan, or so we thought.  

We hoped that we’d be able to ambush the giant animals along their travel route. After locating the buffalo, we discussed moving the light and versatile Darkwoods Blind to another area. but it just didn’t seem possible due to the time constraints and the unpredictability of these creatures of random travel.  We decided to try a spot-and-stalk hunt instead. 

I felt nervous, excited, scared and about 30 other emotions rolled into one, and I began to doubt that my abilities and health were up to the task.  I put all of my apprehension aside and started my pursuit.  After hours of low crawling, climbing trees out of fear, spooking the buffalo, and near misses, I finally got within 20 yards of these creatures of mass destruction.  All of my doubts and fears disappeared as I pulled the bowstring back and placed the pin on the ticker of one magnificent animal.

Sweet Success

I released the Tru-Fire release and placed that victory arrow right in the kill zone of the biggest buffalo in the bunch.  I feared that I didn’t get a good hit on the prey, but as it ran away, I could see the blood spewing from its side. The buffalo ran so far I didn’t think it was going to go down, but then it stopped, staggered like a drunk on NewYear’s Eve and fell on its side.  All the fear, excitement, pressure and pride finally escaped me in the form of a bellowing YAHOOOOOOO! 

Jimmy, and David Leuba, the owner of Smart Ranch Exotics, were right there to witness the most intense moment of my hunting endeavors and were as blown away as me.  I felt so much pride and joy that all I could do was giggle, giggle and giggle some more.  Words could not explain the emotion that I felt that day, but tears of joy and overwhelming pride accompanying my giggles sure got the point across.

After examining the downed trophy we realized that this animal was extraordinarily big and quite possible the World Record Asiatic water buffalo taken by a bow.  At this point in time we are waiting for the official scoring by SCI to confirm our suspicions.  Bottom line, I don’t care if it even scores, but if it does, I am proud that I did it with an Alpine Bow, Victory Arrow, Muzzy Broadhead, Hindsight system at the Smart Ranch in the presence of my heroes David Allard, Marc Roen, Adam Peacock, Todd Shaw, David Jacks and Nathan Halsey.

 I would be remised if I did not recognize the gentlemen who made this possible, David Leuba of the Smart Ranch and Mikey and Jimmy from Darkwoods Blinds

If you would like to take a wounded American hero on an expedition, please contact Friends of American Heroes, Hunting with Heroes, Paralyzed Veterans of America.   This is a rewarding experience for all involved and a great way to show your appreciation for the sacrifices of the brave soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines who have volunteered to protect the freedoms that most take for granted. 

Getting outdoors is a valuable part of our healing process, not only for those who have hunted and feel they cannot do so anymore, but for a first-time participant in an outdoor event.  It has been with great honor that I have served my country and it has been an unequalled honor to aid these great men and women in their healing process in the great outdoors.  The army uses a word most don’t understand and that word is “HOOAH”!  It means many different things at many different times, but to the Wounded Warriors of Fort Campbell, KY, it is an acronym that means Healing Outside Of A Hospital.

Who is the Average Pa Hunter

According to a random survey from the Game Commission, this is the average Pa hunter.

The survey found the average Pennsylvania deer hunter is 47 years old and has been pursuing his or her quarry for 29 years. About 89 percent hunted only in Pennsylvania last year; only 19 percent of the surveyed hunters used trail cameras last year. A whopping 94 percent hunted in the 2011-12 deer seasons; 75 percent did not hunt as part of a hunting club; 73 percent considered deer hunting to be important or very important, and more than 80 percent hunted on private land.

To view a copy of the survey results, visit the Game Commission’s website (www.pgc.state.pa.us), select the “White-Tailed Deer” photo button on the homepage, and click on “2011 Pennsylvania Deer Hunter Survey Preliminary Results under “Deer Hunting.”

Now you know ....

Monday, April 23, 2012

Ham and Bacon Shoot

I went to the Western Pa Wounded Warriors shoot yesterday at California Hill gun club and as always had a great time.

It takes me much longer to get set up for the shot than everyone else and it seems like minutes are ticking by as I aim and adjust.  This group never rushes me and they always make me feel welcome, Thanks so much!

I didn't win any of the shoots but I did well and had a " Blast "

Friday, April 20, 2012

Gun Repair

I just got off the phone with a Rep. for Remington.  It seems my fore- end on my 750 Woodmaster (.270) was not made correctly, and that was causing it to not fire.  They are waiting on parts.....

I think it's taking way too long not to mention the trophy buck it cost me in Missouri last year.  I am not happy with this $850.00 rifle.  I wish I would have kept my .270 BDL

Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Apparition Scents


Check out the new look from Apparition Scents .  Phantom Hunter is scent elimination spray and we all know deer will believe their nose over their eyes every time....

Tuesday, April 17, 2012

Shotgun Sighted In



Today I sighted in my mossberg 12 gauge and new scope for spring gobbler.  I am happy with this pattern at 30 yards.  I was using Federal Premium 3'' number 5 shot shells.  I think these shells should do a number on old Tom Turkey.

Monday, April 16, 2012

Caldwell Dead Shot Field Pod Camo

Today we camouflaged my adapted Field Pod from Caldwell.  I can't wait for spring turkey season to get here so I can use this !  I know its going to give me more mobility and make me quicker on the shot.



Saturday, April 14, 2012

Slick Tip Field Points


My Parker crossbow drives my bolts very deep into 3 D targets, so much that they are hard to remove.  I am thinking of trying these 100 grain Slick Tips  , has anyone used these ?  The MFG claims they are 30 % easier to remove than regular field tips....

When I shoot a 3 D target like this one, my bolt penetrates about 5 inches and is almost impossible to pull out.



Bag targets like this one are very easy to retrieve the bolt from.  I prefer to shoot at bag targets but 3 D can be so much fun. Stay tuned for my review of Slick Tips Field Points.. 30 % easier removal just might make 3 D fun again.


Thursday, April 12, 2012

1st 3 D Shoot


FALCON ARCHERS 2012

APRIL 15 7:30 am-1:30 pm

Come out this Sunday and shoot with me ! I'm the good looking guy in the power chair, say hello

Wednesday, April 11, 2012

Pa Turkey Facts

From Pa Game Commission.

In 1968, the first spring gobbler season started on a Monday and ran only six days so biologists could get a pulse on hunter success and the season’s impact on the more than 60,000 wild turkeys inhabiting about half of Pennsylvania’s forestland at the time. It worked! More hunters were afield on the last day of the season – a Saturday – than the opener, and hunters took a total of 1,636 turkeys in the new season.

Comparatively, in 2011, preliminary harvests show hunters took 43,957 bearded wild turkeys in the spring gobbler seasons from an estimated statewide spring population of about 341,000.

Pennsylvania manages one of the most prolific wild turkey populations in America. It is an accomplishment that is directly related to both previous and ongoing research and management practices, the state’s outstanding tapestry of turkey-friendly habitats and the resiliency of Pennsylvania’s wild turkeys.

“The preliminary 2011 spring gobbler harvest (43,957) was the seventh highest preliminary harvest on record, and only three percent below the previous three-year average,” Casalena said. “This decrease most likely was due to the rainy weather throughout much of last year’s spring season and below average summer reproduction two of the last three years in many WMUs, both of which decreased gobbling activity.”

Recent spring and fall harvests are: 44,788 spring gobblers and 15,884 fall turkeys in 2010; 44,639 spring gobblers and 20,934 fall turkeys in 2009; 42,437 spring gobblers and 24,288 fall turkeys in 2008; 37,992 spring gobblers and 25,369 fall turkeys in 2007; and 39,339 spring gobblers and 24,482 fall turkeys in 2006. While the final 2011 harvest estimates won’t be available until this summer, the preliminary 2011 spring gobbler harvest was 43,957 and the preliminary fall turkey harvest was 17,017.

Monday, April 9, 2012

Wild Turkey Pictures

Check out this website for some fantastic wild turkey photo's and othe Pa game.  Wow is all I can say...

Sunday, April 8, 2012

Camelbak BFM





  • Lightweight, durable 500D CORDURA
  • Multiple drink tube exit ports for routing drink tube over the shoulder or under the arm
  • 4 zippers on main compartment allow for multiple access points to gear
  • ASIPS Radio attachment points hold communications securely with dual antenna ports
  • Glasses, goggles and NVG pocket with external access
  • Full clamshell opening makes adding the MedBak Insert quick and easy (NOTE: MedBak Sold Separately)
  • HYDRATION CAPACITY: 100 oz. (3L)
  • CARGO VOLUME: 2,929 cu.in. (48L)
  • TOTAL VOLUME: 3,112 cu.in. (51L)
  • DIMENSIONS: 21.00" x 20.00" x 14.00" (530mm x 510mm x 355mm)
  • WEIGHT (EMPTY RESERVOIR): 5.5 lbs. (2.5Kg)
  • Made in the USA



  • I received my Camelbak BFM 500 this week and I have to say I could not be happier with it.

    This backpack is large and in charge.  It has enough room for all my hunting gear and then some.  I know I could pack this for a three day trip anywhere or as the perfect bug out bag.

    It is well made, the zippers all have pull tabs and there is molle webbing everywhere to attach even more gear.  This bag is not cheap, but you do get your moneys worth.

    Saturday, April 7, 2012

    Falcon Archers Field Shoot May 2012





     FIELD SHOOT SUNDAY MAY 6, 2012

     14 Field/14 Hunter

    PSAA RULES APPLY, PSAA MEMBERSHIP NOT REQUIRED

    Registration - 9:00 a.m.  Shooting Time - 10:00 a.m. 
    Registration Fee -$10.00

    Advanced Registration is Not Required – Just Show Up and Shoot
    Directions to Shoot and Other Information on Falcon Archer’s Website

    Or  Contact Darrell at (724) 518-6059 or Greg at (724) 344-6099

    Snacks and Refreshments Will Be Available at the shoot

    47 Papp Road Canonsburg, PA 15317   Club Phone: (724) 746-2880



    Friday, April 6, 2012

    Custom Calls

    If you are looking for a custom call you have to get one from J & J Custom Calls .  John really makes outstanding products, check out this box call for spring turkey...


    Plus he has a project going Current Dream where he takes children hunting for the first time.  If you are able to give any donation, I know it goes to a great cause.

    Wednesday, April 4, 2012

    Camelbak BFM 100 oz


    Has anyone used one of these Camelbak's ?  I plan on making this my new hunting backpack.  Check back for a review and post your thoughts on wheelchair backpacks.

    Monday, April 2, 2012

    Grouse Grab Elusion Style



    This is some great video of Elusion camo in action.  I spoke to Lee last night and he was telling me another benifit of Elusion camo was it resist ticks for some reason.

    If anyone else in Elusion Camo has had the following thing happen Please post and tell us about your experience.
    Lee said;

    I have known since day 1 in the woods wearing Elusion that Ticks and other bugs dont BUG us.....But did not know why. Today we were in an area known to be tick infested.....and of the 4 of us wearing our Elusion camo.....No one even had one on them.
    Later I saw 2 Ticks on my BOOT....when the first one got on my Camo....He fell off.....I watched as the second tick got on the legging...and poof he fell off as well..
    Not sure what the hell happened.....but I picked them both up...and their legs were curled and they didnt try to get on my hand. I hope we figure this out soon. PS this IS NOT AN April Fool. This is dead serious. Thanks

    EXTENDED FOR A LIMITED TIME
    ** Special this week only **
    Buy any BDU and get one free Basic Vest system













    **No limit per customer. Vests will match pattern of BDU**
    Detachable Seat pads sold separately

    http://www.elusioncamo.com/store.html