Here is a short video of me shooting four shots with the new mount. The slow motion effects just add to the cool factor. This new mount is easy to get back on target using very little pressure from my chin and arm. I was shooting 1.25 inch groups which are the best I have shot since my injury. Thanks Jesse for the video and your help shooting today!
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
New Gun Mount For 2016
As many of you know I have not been hunting very much this year due to my right foot. So I thought I would take the time to re-examine my rifle/crossbow mount. My friend Jesse offered to complete the welds and help redesign the mount.
This mount would also incorporate the Be Adaptive sip and puff trigger and would be adjustable for almost any rifle/crossbow configuration. The mount it's self is made from one inch square steel tubing, flat steel, angled steel and conduit purchased at Home Depot. It also contains added weight to the rear of the mount and a coupler placed on the conduit to ensure the proper height each time the mount is placed onto my wheelchair.
One inch nylon straps attach the rifle to the mount securing rifle stability and creating greater accuracy. 2mm foam has been placed on the contact points with the rifle. The sip and puff trigger is held in place with Velcro and operated by a 12 V battery.
The mount is very well balanced and stable. I can easily move the mount from side to side and up-and-down. I feel like this mount will increase my accuracy and ability to get on game animals quickly and independently. Thank you so much Jesse for all of your hard work/ design. I would also like to thank Ed for the original design, each new Version gets better and better.
Friday, November 6, 2015
Update
I have not been hunting very much this year, because of my foot. The amputation and surgery went well and the incisions are healing but I am still getting pressure sores on the side of my right foot.
As much as I like fall turkey hunting and of course archery season here in Pennsylvania I just have been unable to get out.
Good luck to all of you hunters, please continue to send me your photos and stories. If you have any ideas or would like to promote accessible hunting, or share your successful hunt, just let me know.
As much as I like fall turkey hunting and of course archery season here in Pennsylvania I just have been unable to get out.
Good luck to all of you hunters, please continue to send me your photos and stories. If you have any ideas or would like to promote accessible hunting, or share your successful hunt, just let me know.
Tuesday, October 6, 2015
Yeti 30 oz Tumbler
I recently received a 30 ounce Yeti Tumbler as a birthday present. It is by far the most expensive cup I have ever used. I was skeptical, why would anyone purchase a $40 cup, how much different could it be?
Let me tell you, this cup is different. Fill it with ice in the morning, add water and walk away. Come back several hours later and you still have ice. Yes, it's that good.
Saturday, October 3, 2015
The Tom Siple Foundation
On Friday October 2, I was hunting with The Tom Siple Foundation at Westbrook Whitetails near Indiana Pennsylvania. I had an outstanding time with this group. We began the hunt after a great breakfast in their incredible hunting lodge.
Mark and the guys from the foundation transferred me from my power wheelchair into a side-by-side for the trip to the ground blind. The ground blind was wheelchair accessible and large enough for four of us to sit comfortably.
After settling into the ground blind and setting up their 7mm adapted rifle we started the hunt. After about an hour we started to see a few deer, mostly doe. The rifle I was using was controlled by a joystick and had a camera mounted on to the scope. I could see the crosshairs on a 4" x 8" video screen. I would be using a sip and puff trigger. This set up would work for almost any individual with a variety of disabilities.
Almost 4 hours into the hunt we spotted a giant white buck moving toward the ground blind. He was moving with several doe almost at a trot, too quickly for me to even attempt a shot. The buck and doe stayed up on my right, I could not move the rifle that far to my right.
After several minutes we decided to move the rifle mount to the far side of the ground blind. As luck would have it after moving the rifle the buck moved to our left. We had to move the rifle and mount back to its original location. Again the buck moved and again we moved the rifle mount.
It was now or never and I settled the crosshairs on to the buck and fired using the sip and puff trigger. The buck dropped in his tracks at a little over 100 yards. I had just taken my trophy white Whitetail buck. This buck is not an albino deer. He is a white, Whitetail deer.
The buck is huge, over 300 pounds and has 17 points. He scores 160 inches and is an incredible buck. The antlers are palmated and nontypical. I have never seen another buck like this.
I would like to thank everyone from the Tom Sipple foundation and everyone at Westbrook whitetails. Having the opportunity to hunt with these great people is something I will always remember. The foundation will be mounting my trophy buck and I will be picking it up at their banquet in March. It was an incredible experience with fantastic people.
 |
| Greg and Brad |
Mark and the guys from the foundation transferred me from my power wheelchair into a side-by-side for the trip to the ground blind. The ground blind was wheelchair accessible and large enough for four of us to sit comfortably.
After settling into the ground blind and setting up their 7mm adapted rifle we started the hunt. After about an hour we started to see a few deer, mostly doe. The rifle I was using was controlled by a joystick and had a camera mounted on to the scope. I could see the crosshairs on a 4" x 8" video screen. I would be using a sip and puff trigger. This set up would work for almost any individual with a variety of disabilities.
 |
| Ronnie, Greg and Mark |
Almost 4 hours into the hunt we spotted a giant white buck moving toward the ground blind. He was moving with several doe almost at a trot, too quickly for me to even attempt a shot. The buck and doe stayed up on my right, I could not move the rifle that far to my right.
After several minutes we decided to move the rifle mount to the far side of the ground blind. As luck would have it after moving the rifle the buck moved to our left. We had to move the rifle and mount back to its original location. Again the buck moved and again we moved the rifle mount.
It was now or never and I settled the crosshairs on to the buck and fired using the sip and puff trigger. The buck dropped in his tracks at a little over 100 yards. I had just taken my trophy white Whitetail buck. This buck is not an albino deer. He is a white, Whitetail deer.
The buck is huge, over 300 pounds and has 17 points. He scores 160 inches and is an incredible buck. The antlers are palmated and nontypical. I have never seen another buck like this.
 |
| Greg and Beth |
I would like to thank everyone from the Tom Sipple foundation and everyone at Westbrook whitetails. Having the opportunity to hunt with these great people is something I will always remember. The foundation will be mounting my trophy buck and I will be picking it up at their banquet in March. It was an incredible experience with fantastic people.
Thursday, October 1, 2015
Alive and Well
The buck I shot on opening day of archery season is alive and well. My shot missed the lungs and it's definitely a nonfatal hit. I may get a second chance at this buck this season but for right now I'm just glad he was not wounded and lost.
Friday, September 25, 2015
Savage M11 Trophy Hunter XP
I can't wait to sight in the new Savage Trophy Hunter chambered in .308 It has a Nikon 3x9x40 BDC Reticle scope and should be a tack driver.
Savage has a great reputation for providing high level accuracy for the budget minded shooter. Having this rifle chambered in .308 is perfect for whitetail deer and I would not be afraid to use it on a Pennsylvania black bear or elk if the opportunity ever presents itself.
The synthetic stock and Matte black finish should be easy to care for. This is definitely a working hunting rifle not a display case beauty queen.
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
9 Point Buck on Opening Day 2015
You can watch a video of the shot by clicking here
Unfortunately my aim was a little high and the buck drops down Creating a higher shot behind his shoulder into the non lethal zone. I was hoping for a lung shot but it did not happen.
After the shot we began trailing him. A huge thunderstorm created a downpour so we had to back out and try to recover the buck on Sunday morning. Several guys went out looking Sunday morning but we could not find or retrieve this buck. I am hoping it is a nonlethal shot and we will see him on trail cameras again this week eating apples.
Unfortunately my aim was a little high and the buck drops down Creating a higher shot behind his shoulder into the non lethal zone. I was hoping for a lung shot but it did not happen.
Friday, September 18, 2015
Archery season starts September 19, 2015
Archery season starts September 19, 2015 in 2B, 5B, 5C and 5D. It starts statewide on October 3rd. I plan on going out for a few hours tomorrow and starting my season. Good luck to all the Pennsylvania archers who are going hunting tomorrow. Be safe and shoot straight!
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
Staying Dry In a Wheelchair
Sometimes hunting from a power wheelchair can be made even more challenging by the weather. Rain presents it's own set of challenges but it can be easily mitigated. If you are prepared.
I always keep two heavy duty contractor bags in my backpack along with two quart size zip lock bags. The first contractor bag goes on my lap and the second bag goes over my legs. Finally, the quart bag goes over my controller. You can easily add a few rubber bands to keep the zip lock bag on your controller.
I always keep two heavy duty contractor bags in my backpack along with two quart size zip lock bags. The first contractor bag goes on my lap and the second bag goes over my legs. Finally, the quart bag goes over my controller. You can easily add a few rubber bands to keep the zip lock bag on your controller.
With the right attitude and a little preparation a power wheelchair user does not have to call it quits just because of a little rain. Good luck this season, shoot straight and be safe.
Monday, September 14, 2015
Spring Gobbler Mount
My spring gobbler is up on the wall and I think it looks fantastic. It's a huge bird and a great reminder of a wonderful hunt with my friend Skip.
Sunday, September 13, 2015
McDonald Sportsmen's Association Pheasant Hunt 2015
Yesterday was the second annual McDonald's Sportsmens Association pheasant hunt for the Western Pennsylvania wounded warriors. It was a fantastic day and everyone had a great day out hunting.
The morning started off with donuts, juice and coffee at the safety meeting. It was great seeing all of the McDonald members from last year. The volunteers are so nice and thoughtful, they really make this event first class.
My friend Terry from the Western Pennsylvania wounded warriors delivered my spring turkey mount. I will be getting this gobbler on my wall sometime later today.
We all loaded up on trailers, golf carts and side-by-side's to start the day's pheasant hunt. Handlers and sporting dogs accompanied each hunter. There's something about hunting with a well trained dog, that makes the whole experience that much better.
I was able to put three pheasants in my game bag. I am always so thankful that I have the opportunity to be out hunting, bagging a bird is just a bonus. It's hard to believe that last week I was in the hospital having my big toe amputated.
I did have to wear a protective foam boot. But with a little creativity and some camouflage cloth, it all worked out fantastic.
After the morning field hunt we all assembled for lunch. McDonald had the lunch catered and let me tell you, it was the best. I had a perfectly grilled steak, fried cod fillet and a side salad. A raffle was held following lunch and each hunter was given a prize. My friend Tom won a new 12 gauge shotgun! No one was left out and we were all surprised by the raffle (I won a sweet NRA folding knife).
After lunch we all went back out for a Continental pheasant shoot. Although it rained off and on throughout the day it could not put a damper on our enthusiasm. I am already looking forward to next year's event. Thank you to all the volunteers who made this hunt possible. I know we will all be talking about it for a long time.
The morning started off with donuts, juice and coffee at the safety meeting. It was great seeing all of the McDonald members from last year. The volunteers are so nice and thoughtful, they really make this event first class.
My friend Terry from the Western Pennsylvania wounded warriors delivered my spring turkey mount. I will be getting this gobbler on my wall sometime later today.
We all loaded up on trailers, golf carts and side-by-side's to start the day's pheasant hunt. Handlers and sporting dogs accompanied each hunter. There's something about hunting with a well trained dog, that makes the whole experience that much better.
I was able to put three pheasants in my game bag. I am always so thankful that I have the opportunity to be out hunting, bagging a bird is just a bonus. It's hard to believe that last week I was in the hospital having my big toe amputated.
I did have to wear a protective foam boot. But with a little creativity and some camouflage cloth, it all worked out fantastic.
After the morning field hunt we all assembled for lunch. McDonald had the lunch catered and let me tell you, it was the best. I had a perfectly grilled steak, fried cod fillet and a side salad. A raffle was held following lunch and each hunter was given a prize. My friend Tom won a new 12 gauge shotgun! No one was left out and we were all surprised by the raffle (I won a sweet NRA folding knife).
After lunch we all went back out for a Continental pheasant shoot. Although it rained off and on throughout the day it could not put a damper on our enthusiasm. I am already looking forward to next year's event. Thank you to all the volunteers who made this hunt possible. I know we will all be talking about it for a long time.
Wednesday, September 9, 2015
Sip and Puff Trigger
I thought I would get a little practice in using my sip and puff trigger. Unfortunately no pheasants were found in my kitchen. Hopefully I am hunting pheasants on Saturday. I may not be able to stay out long because of my foot but I am going to give it a try. I look forward to the pheasant hunt at McDonald Sportsmen's Association every year.
Hopefully this trigger makes it easy to fire my shotgun and I can bag at least one pheasant. Good luck to all the hunters who will be participating from the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors.
Hopefully this trigger makes it easy to fire my shotgun and I can bag at least one pheasant. Good luck to all the hunters who will be participating from the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors.
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
Talisman
Do you have a lucky charm? Something you pull out every year and take along hunting? I do and I'm not ashamed to admit it. My lucky charm is this handcrafted damascus steel arrowhead made by Gary Pickens of Boise Idaho.
I pulled it out last night and put it on. It definitely feels like hunting season around my house now. Good luck with your season, shoot straight and be safe.
I pulled it out last night and put it on. It definitely feels like hunting season around my house now. Good luck with your season, shoot straight and be safe.
Monday, September 7, 2015
Accessible Hunter Sticker
The accessible hunter logo is up on my mini van, I think it adds a certain amount of class. But really, how much class can you add to a minivan.
Saturday, September 5, 2015
Hospital Stay
I have been battling with four pressure sores on my right foot the past several months. Two of them became extremely bad this week so I went to the emergency room on Wednesday. The surgeon had to amputate the big toe of my right foot and remove the bone along the blade. I was discharged on Friday and I am recovering now.
Hopefully I am able to go on the pheasant hunt scheduled for next Saturday with the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. Wish me luck, I could sure use it right now.
Hopefully I am able to go on the pheasant hunt scheduled for next Saturday with the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. Wish me luck, I could sure use it right now.
Monday, August 31, 2015
Deer Season is Almost Here
I find it very difficult to keep calm this time of year. There are so Many things that need to be completed in the next few weeks before the season opens. I am the type of individual who believes being unprepared is one of the worst things anyone could be.
A successful hunt usually comes down to paying attention to the small details in relation to the overall big picture. In the next few weeks we will talk about what keeps me awake at night in preparation for the 2015 PA archery season.
Start rounding up your gear, It's time for a hunting locker inspection.
Thursday, August 27, 2015
27,592 Pa Elk Applications
This year 27,592 hunters applied for a Pa elk license. That raised $275,920 Just from applications alone. Another $157,150 was raised through a raffle for the Keystone Elk Country Alliance. Add to that another $52,500 from a license raffled off from the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and you have a total of $485,570 for Pa wildlife!
Good luck to all the hunters who were awarded a license this year.
Good luck to all the hunters who were awarded a license this year.
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
Coyote Vital Target
Now that I have the Bushmaster .223 sighted in I can start to think about Coyote hunting. There are several coyotes in the area and they definitely have an impact on turkeys and fawns.
Sunday, August 23, 2015
Bushmaster .223 Range Day
Today was spent sighting in the Bushmaster .223 It was a beautiful day to be outside sending some rounds down range. We were sighting in a new Nikon 3x9x40 scope at the Western Pa Wounded Warriors range. Everyday shooting is a day well spent.
Using the Caldwell lead sled made sighting in easy and the rifle was dialed in pretty quick. The scope was not bore sighted but was on the paper the first shot. Using three shot groups it worked out well. The .223 shot just as well off the bench too. I can't wait for deer season to start. But until the season gets here, shooting paper targets will have to do...
Friday, August 21, 2015
Tuesday, August 18, 2015
Crossbow Maintenance
Now is the time of year I really start to practice shooting my Tenpoint crossbow. I like to shoot my Field points up until the end of August then I will switch and concentrate on shooting my broadheads. Here are a few good points to keep in mind when maintaining your crossbow. You can purchase the precision oiler by clicking here
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Deer Vital Target
I always liked the saying"Aim small, miss small". As we are preparing for the season I feel it's important to visualize the shot. A well placed broadhead (fixed or mechanical) will quickly and humanely bring down a whitetail deer.
Monday, August 10, 2015
Ham and Bacon Shoot
Yesterday was the ham and bacon shoot sponsored by the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors at the California Hill Gun Club. The weather was beautiful and we had a good group of shooters come out to support a great organization.
I shot six rounds really well but did not win any bacon or ham. My groups were tight and consistent but I just could not get closest to the X with a single BB. That's the great part of shooting in a ham and bacon contest. Anyone can win with a little luck.
One thing I would like to mention is winning is not always about the prize. And let's not get confused, this is not about handing out participation trophies to children in athletics. Everyone who participated in yesterday's event, able bodied or disabled was a winner. Several of the shooters had significant disabilities and they were still able to compete and win.
We all support each other and share in each others success. One particular young man is new to shooting. Several of us offered encouragement, let him use our shotguns and cheered for him to win. Unfortunately he did not win a prize but I think he took away something much more valuable. A feeling that he was part of a group, a feeling that he could accomplish his goals, and a sense of belonging.
It's amazing what can happen with the right group of people. When we encourage and support each other we all win.
I shot six rounds really well but did not win any bacon or ham. My groups were tight and consistent but I just could not get closest to the X with a single BB. That's the great part of shooting in a ham and bacon contest. Anyone can win with a little luck.
One thing I would like to mention is winning is not always about the prize. And let's not get confused, this is not about handing out participation trophies to children in athletics. Everyone who participated in yesterday's event, able bodied or disabled was a winner. Several of the shooters had significant disabilities and they were still able to compete and win.
We all support each other and share in each others success. One particular young man is new to shooting. Several of us offered encouragement, let him use our shotguns and cheered for him to win. Unfortunately he did not win a prize but I think he took away something much more valuable. A feeling that he was part of a group, a feeling that he could accomplish his goals, and a sense of belonging.
It's amazing what can happen with the right group of people. When we encourage and support each other we all win.
Friday, August 7, 2015
Rotary District 7300 Donation, Trac-Fab
I would like to thank The Rotary District 7300 for their very generous donation of a new Trac-Fab all-terrain wheelchair to the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. It will provide veterans a better opportunity to explore the great outdoors.
Without adaptive equipment like this veterans may not have the opportunity to access off-road activities such as hiking, fishing and hunting. Tracked wheelchairs such as this are the only way veterans and people with disabilities can get off the pavement. After all, nature and the great outdoors is not ADA certified or approved.
Monday, August 3, 2015
.243 Range Time
On Sunday I was able to get to the range for a little rifle practice. Shooting the .243 is always fun and it was grouping well. I was shooting almost 1'' groups which is good for me.
It was a beautiful day outside and I seen three gobblers which made the day out even better. I plan on shooting my rifle a few more times before the season starts. But the next range day will be dedicated to practicing with my crossbow.
50, 100, 150 and 200 yard targets. I don't plan on shooting past 150 yards. I know my limitations and my comfort zone. Always shoot within your abilities for a clean ethical hunt.
Saturday, August 1, 2015
Pregame Before The Hunt
August. If you have not started preparing for deer season yet, today is the day. Hunting season will be here before we know it.
It's time to get your trail cameras out, time to start glassing fields, cutting shooting lanes and most importantly shooting your bow, crossbow or rifle.
Just like professional football players have started training camp, we as hunters need to start practicing our skills and preparing for the season if we want to be successful.
It's also important to take an inventory of your hunting gear. Learn what needs to be replaced, tightened, painted, oiled, cleaned, put new batteries into or thrown out.
If you are a serious hunter, Now is the time to prepare, We owe it to the game we pursue. Check all of your safety equipment, prepare and have a plan for emergencies this season.
Check back and follow along as I prepare for the 2015 deer season.
It's time to get your trail cameras out, time to start glassing fields, cutting shooting lanes and most importantly shooting your bow, crossbow or rifle.
Just like professional football players have started training camp, we as hunters need to start practicing our skills and preparing for the season if we want to be successful.
It's also important to take an inventory of your hunting gear. Learn what needs to be replaced, tightened, painted, oiled, cleaned, put new batteries into or thrown out.
If you are a serious hunter, Now is the time to prepare, We owe it to the game we pursue. Check all of your safety equipment, prepare and have a plan for emergencies this season.
Check back and follow along as I prepare for the 2015 deer season.
Friday, July 31, 2015
Pa Elk License
Today, July 31st is the last day to apply for a Pennsylvania elk license. The drawing will be held on Saturday August 15. You can apply for a chance to obtain an elk license online by clicking here
Thursday, July 30, 2015
Pa Doe License 2015 Availability
I received my Pennsylvania Doe license in the mail this week for management area 2B. I am not sure I will harvested a Doe this year, but at least I have the option if a mature Doe gives me a great shot opportunity.
If you are interested in purchasing a Doe license you can check the availability of all management areas by clicking HERE. As of Thursday July 30th, here is a list of the following management areas and their availability.
If you are interested in purchasing a Doe license you can check the availability of all management areas by clicking HERE. As of Thursday July 30th, here is a list of the following management areas and their availability.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
SPC Outdoors Field Test Wac'em BroadHeads
I really see this being the go to broadhead for a lot of hunters in the next few years...Wac'em Archery
Here is their 3- blade 100 grain crossbow broadhead, available in 100 or 125 grain. Four broadheads for approximately $37.99, most broadheads come in a package of three.
Rage broadheads sell for $39.99 per 3 pack or $13.33 each.
Wac'em broadheads sell 4 for $37.99 or $9.50 each.
Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Marianna Outdoorsmen Association
The Marianna Outdoorsmen Association recently completed a wheelchair accessible parking area and ramp access to Ten Mile Creek. I attended the opening with the Western Pennsylvania Wounded Warriors. It was a great event celebrating the men and women who raised $150,000 to complete this project.
The ramp itself is a little steep and not ADA approved but provides access to a great fishing area. Numerous catfish were stocked that morning for later in the day. A catfish tournament. ran from 4-9pm. If you are interested in fishing and live near Marianna PA, give 10 mile Creek a chance.
