Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Optics Does HuntSports.com Sell?

Do you all have all the newest digital night vision optics?

What is the best value in riflescopes?

What is the difference in a Reflex Sight and a Holographic Sights

How important is the correct eye relief and reticle styles?

What Does MOA Mean?

What Does Bore Sighting Mean and what is it?

In this article, you will learn:

  • Types of optics
  • Basic terms in optics
  • Basic definitions of optics

Optics include riflescopes, red dot sights, reflex sights, lasers, lights, range finders and other accessories that help you see and aim at a target

Optics is the word we use for any type of sight that allows you to see a target better. Understanding the terms used when describing the specifications and features of the different types of optics made for your firearm will help you decide which optic is best for your needs. There are many words related to riflescopes, red dot and reflex sights that aren’t commonly used in everyday language but are incredibly important when it comes to describing the features of the optic. Here we describe the basic terms and definitions of optics.

Types of Optics

There are two types of optics you can mount on your firearm—magnified and non-magnified. Red dot tube, reflex, prismatic, holographic, digital and traditional scopes all fall under either of these categories.

These types of scopes are magnified:

  • Prismatic (can also be 1x magnification)
  • Digital
  • Traditional riflescopes

Magnified

Magnification is the process of enlarging the appearance of an object through magnified lenses. For example, a 4x riflescope enlarges the image 4 times the size as seen by the normal, unaided eye. Riflescope magnification can be fixed or variable, ranging from 1x up to 40x and over. The magnification of the riflescope is designated by the first number in its optical configuration. For example, 4x32 for fixed and 3-9x40 for variable.

Prismatic

Black, prismatic weapon sight with 2.8-inch eye relief

The Wolfhound is a prismatic sight and features a 2.8-inch eye relief and 5 MOA aiming dot.

Prismatic scopes consist of various lenses and a prismatic lens set. They provide two benefits—no moving parts in the internal lens structure provide better durability and a higher probability of maintaining zero and prisms provide a folded focal length, reducing the overall length of the housing.

Digital Night Vision

The 4-32x50mm Wraith digital night vision scope can be used to hunt and shoot day or night with removable IR illuminator.

The technologically advanced Wraith is a digital day and night vision riflescope. Digital scopes use a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) and a microdisplay. Light projected onto the CCD or CMOS array from the objective lens is converted to an electronic signal. This signal is then processed and sent to the microdisplay to be viewed by the user. Digital night vision units require the addition of artificial light to create bright images but can be used in daylight conditions.

What is a Riflescope?

A riflescope is a telescopic sight that enlarges the image of what you’re looking at to help aim at a target and shoot accurately.

The Sightmark Citadel riflescope has a 3-18x magnification and 50mm objective lens with red illuminated millradian reticle.

Estimate range and determine shot holdovers with the 3-18x50mm Citadel riflescope.

Non-Magnified

  • Red dot tube sight
  • Reflex open sight
  • Holographic (HWS)

What is a Reflex Sight?

Reflex sights fall into two categories—open and tube sights. Open sights are generally referred to as reflex sights while tube sights are referred to as red dots.

Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec reflex sight with yellow lens

Sightmark Ultra Shot M-Spec reflex sight can be used during the day and at night.

Based on a reflector system, a reflex sight utilizes a reflective glass lens to project an illuminated image superimposed on the field of view. A reflective glass lens is used to collimate light from a light emitting diode (LED) to serve as an aiming point while allowing the user to see the field of view simultaneously.

Click here for more on the pros and cons of each reflex open and tube red dot sights.

Holographic Sights

Holographic sights, most notably made by EOTech, use a laser transmission hologram to produce an illuminated reticle or dot. The hologram is illuminated via a laser diode instead of an LED like in red dot sights.

Objective Lens

The objective lens is the lens in which light enters the riflescope and is sharply focused. The diameter of the lens is measured in millimeters and designated as the last number in the scope’s optical configuration, 4-16x44. The larger the objective lens, the more light gathers and the result is a brighter image with higher resolution, sharpness and detail. Larger objective lenses deliver better images in low light conditions, but also create a heavier and more costly riflescope.

Field of View

Reflex sights, due to their heads-up display (HUD) design allow for a wider field of view.

Reflex sights, due to their heads-up display (HUD) design allow for a wider field of view.

The field of view (FOV) is the observable image visible through the riflescope. Field of view is measured in angular (degrees) or a linear field. Linear field measurements are the width in feet (or meters) of the viewing area at 100 yards (or 100 meters.) The wider the field of view, the greater the area you will see in the image. A wide field of view is helpful for close shooting ranges and moving targets. For variable power magnifications, the increase in power will also decrease the field of view.

Eye Relief

Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and where the eye sees the full field of view with no dark edges around the image.

Eye relief is the distance between the eyepiece and where the eye sees the full field of view with no dark edges around the image. Long eye relief in riflescopes is important. Recoil from rifles can hit your forehead or eye, causing injury if the eye relief is not great enough. Heavy-recoil rifles need a minimum of 2.5 inches, but 3 inches or greater is preferable. The downside to long eye relief scopes is they generally have a smaller field of view. With variable power riflescopes, eye relief will change. As power increases, eye relief will decrease.

Reticle

There are many different type of reticles

A reticle is a set, or series of fine lines created from thin metal wire, etched glass, collimated light, or a computer-generated image superimposed on a screen. At its simplest form, the crosshair is represented as intersecting lines in the shape of a cross. Reticles are used as an aiming reference, with the crosshair being a representation of the bullet’s point of impact. Reticles are also designed to be used to estimate range to target and quickly designate bullet drop.

Windage and Elevation Adjustments

Windage and elevation adjustments allow the reticle to be zeroed to the point of impact of the rifle. Elevation controls the vertical (up/down) adjustment of point of impact and allows for compensation of bullet drop. Windage controls the horizontal (left/right) adjustment of point of impact and allows for compensation of wind deflection.

Parallax

Parallax is the visual movement of the reticle in relation to the target. This movement is visible when the user moves their head and the reticle appears to swim over the target. Parallax is caused by the reticle not focusing at the same distance as the target.

Exit Pupil

Measured in millimeters, the exit pupil is the beam of light formed by the objective lens that exits the eyepiece and enters the user’s eye. The larger the exit pupil, the brighter the image; however, it is only applicable if the eye’s pupil is large enough to accommodate it. Large exit pupils are advantageous when viewing in low light. Exit pupil is found by the diameter of the objective lens divided by the magnification.

Focal Plane

Reticles are either on the first or second focal plane

Reticles may be located on the First Focal Plane (FFP) or Second Focal Plane (SFP) of variable magnification riflescopes. In FFP configuration, the reticle remains at a constant size compared to the target. In low magnification, FFP reticles will appear small but grow with the increase of magnification. Second focal plane reticles remain the same size to the user while the target size changes.

Diopter Adjustment or Focus Ring

Diopter is the optical power of a lens and is a reciprocal length of focal length. Since everyone’s eyes are different, diopter adjustment compensates for variances between users. In riflescopes, the image is already focused by the objective lens, focus lens, and erector lenses, but diopter adjustment affects how the user’s eye sees the reticle. Typically, riflescope diopter adjustment ranges from +3 to -3, 0 being nominal 20/20 vision.

Milliradian (Mils) and Minute of Angle (MOA)

What Does MOA Mean?

Mils and MOA are understood as the graduation of a riflescope’s windage and elevation adjustment.

MOA is short for minute of angle and is also a unit for angular measurement. MOA is a smaller, finer measurement than one mil. 1 MOA is equal to 1.047” at 100 yards but rounded to 1.” A riflescope with 0.25MOA (1/4MOA) click adjustment means that each click will move the point of impact 0.25” at 100 yards.

Mil is short for milliradian, a trigonometric unit for angular measurement. Mils are a finer, more precise measurement than degrees. A single mil is equal to 3.6” at 100 yards or 10cm at 100 meters.  A riflescope with 0.1mrad click adjustment means that each click will move the point of impact 0.36” at 100 yards or 1cm at 100 meters.

What Does Boresighting Mean?

The goal of boresighting is to get on-paper. The goal of zeroing is to at to hit where you’re looking.

 

Is the new Wraith long range precision rifle scope worth replacing my traditional riflescope on any of my firearms?

How good is the new Wraith digital day/night scope?

Does the Wraith 4-32x50mm digital riflescope with IR illuminator provide digital images during the day and at night?

What is Digital Night Vision?

 

 

 

BigDaddy Provides This Answers as Best described here in this article by Suzanne Wiley --  I admit it. I’m pretty old school. The latest in technology doesn’t interest me. The biggest, baddest TV/phone/computer, etc. is never on my “must-have” list. In fact, I get upset every time I have to upgrade my phone because I worry it’s going to be different and more complicated to operate. Though I do enjoy a few advances—Bluetooth wireless and handsfree, faster internet and the iPhone, I’m slow at adapting and always have been. In college, I almost returned my DVD player because I couldn’t figure out how to hook it up to the TV. I’m that electronically-lame! I’m like that with my firearms, too.

The new Wraith digital high-definition riflescope from Sightmark has 10 different reticles and 9 color choices.

Introducing the new Wraith digital HD riflescope.

Though I’ll try anything for testing and evaluation, on my personal guns, I prefer iron/fixed sights. I’m not sure why. I just do. Yes, it makes shooting more challenging. And yes, I can acquire targets quicker with optics. I have run lasers on my handguns and do currently run a red dot on my AR; however, with each new optic comes a learning curve. I am not a regular hunter and use my firearms mostly for fun and self-defense. Though I have shot long-range before, none of the guns I own are set up for precision shooting. I’ve never mounted a traditional magnified riflescope on any of my firearms. I’ve never had a reason to, but after getting my hands on the new Wraith digital day/night scope, I felt it was high time I get it together and adopt some new technology.

Why? .. I mean, I know I’m a writer and should have better words than this, but seriously, this thing is really cool.

The Wraith is a 4-32x50mm digital riflescope with detachable IR illuminator. It provides digital images of your target during the day and black and white or traditional green night vision at night. It features a 1920×1080 high definition CMOS sensor and a 1280×720 FLCOS display. During the day, images appear crisp and clear in full color. Transitioning to low-light situations is a simple touch of the digital controls on top of the unit—power and left, right and up and down arrows for navigating through the menu and settings. Nighttime target acquisition is up to 200 yards. There are 10 different reticle patterns in 9 different colors. It will also record video and still images with 4 to 5 hours of battery life on common 4 AA batteries.

What is Digital Night Vision?

Traditional night vision devices use an image intensifier tube (IIT.) Digital scopes (DNV,) on the other hand, use a charge-coupled device (CCD) or complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) and a microdisplay. Light that projected onto the CCD or CMOS array from the objective lens is converted to an electronic signal. This signal is then processed and sent to the microdisplay to be viewed by the user.

CCD and CMOS sensors are more sensitive to near-IR than IITs and can see light up into 1,000nm. Unlike IIT’s, digital night vision units require the addition of artificial light to create bright images, but digital night vision can be used in daylight conditions. They can also record images directly to an internal memory card or be sent through a video output to a DVR. DNV has now become a viable replacement for Gen 2 night vision as digital offers similar performance and resolution but at a comparable or lesser cost than Gen 2.

Use the Wraith 4-32x50mm digital riflescope during the day or night with color images during the day and black and white or green at night.

The Wraith is a 4-32x50mm digital riflescope with detachable IR illuminator. It can be used safely during the day or night. Digital night vision devices, like the Wraith, require an outside light source to detect clear images in low and no light. An infrared illuminator creates enough light while going undetected to animals and other people so that targets are clearly identified in the dark.

There are two types of resolution listed on the specifications of digital night vision. Sensor resolution—also capture resolution—is the resolution of the imaging sensor. Display resolution is the resolution of the display or image seen by the user and is not to be confused with the sensor resolution. Resolution refers to the number of pixels in the sensor array or in the display. These numbers refer to the total number of pixels along the width and height of the sensor or display. A resolution of 800×600 means the display or sensor has 800 pixels across its width and 600 pixels high. Generally, the higher the number, the more details the image will provide. For imaging sensors, the more pixels on a sensor array the more light that will be captured which usually increases image brightness, resolution and viewing distance.

Those with a traditional riflescope, digital night vision or thermal imaging experience will have no problems setting up their Wraith riflescope, but those of us who need a little extra help in the electronics department may have issues without specific instructions.

Before shooting with the Wraith, I highly recommend getting familiar with its menu and settings. After becoming familiar with its operation, boresight at home before heading out to the range to sight it in. This will save you a lot of money on ammo, time and frustration.

 

HAVE QUESTIONS?  Info@HuntSports.com

 

 

 

QUESTION:  What do the numerical specs on optics magnifications stand for?

QUESTION: What are all these environmental or IP Ratings I see [ie: IPX4, IPX6, IP66, IP67) mean?

QUESTION: How do night vision optics work?

QUESTION: What is an InfraRed (IR) Illuminator?

QUESTION: Can these night vision scopes and binoculars be used in sunlight?

 

 

BigDaddy Answers many FAQ'S and Hunters Qustions about hunting optics, binoculars, monoculars and other hunting gear .. 

 

QUESTION:  What do the numerical specs on optics magnifications stand for?

BIGDADDY'S ANSWER:  The first number in an optical specification represents the magnification of the optic. If the optical device is a fixed magnification it is represented by a single number followed by the letter “X” and if the optical devices [scopes, binoculars] is a variable type of magnification it is represented by a set of numbers followed by the letter “X”. The second number in an optical specification represents the diameter of the objective lens in millimeters. For example, 10x50 binoculars means the binoculars have a fixed magnification of 10X with a objective lens diameter of 50MM. For example a 1-7X32 riflescope consists of a 1-7X magnification with a 32MM objective lens.

QUESTION: What are all these environmental or IP Ratings I see [ie: IPX4, IPX6, IP66, IP67) mean?

 

BIGDADDY'S ANSWER: Sightmark, Pulsar and fireField rates their optical devices based on the IEC 60529 Ingress Protection [IP] Rating. IP rating is formatted as “IP” followed by two digits. The first digit indicated the level of protection against solids such as dust and dirt and if no rating for solids is provided, an “X” is substituted in this position. The second digit indicated the level of protection against liquids. Products rated IPX4, IPX5, IPX6 are weatherproof or water resistant and can handle conditions such as rain, snow and splashing water. Products rated IPX7 are completely waterproof and can handle submersion up to 3.2 Feet of water.

 

QUESTION: How do night vision optics work?

BIGDADDY'S ANSWER: Night Vision Optics are used to amplify light energy [photons] from ambient light such as moonlight or starlight. Night Vision units use an electronic photocathode tube or a charge coupled device [CCD] that converts photons to electrons. In photocathode tubes, the electrons are multiplied thousands of times and converted back into photons through a phosphor screen, which produces an image. In CCD sensors, the captured electrons are sent to a signal processor and then sent to a display to create the image.

QUESTION: What is an InfraRed (IR) Illuminator?

BIGDADDY'S ANSWER: The IR [Infrared] illuminator acts like a flash light when there is little or no ambient light [darkness] and the beam from the IR Illuminator is nearly invisible to the human eye, but can be easily detected by light amplifying devices like night vision devices etc.

 

QUESTION: Can these night vision scopes and binoculars be used in sunlight?

BIGDADDY'S ANSWER: Yes, as many of the modern Digital Night Vision products like those by Pulsar, SightMark and others can be used in daylight without any concern of damaging the CCD sensor as these Night Vision units use a photo-cathode tube, however, they can only be used at night. Many modern night vision units come with a "peephole lens cover" to test the unit in daylight. This cover allows you to see an image through the device without letting too much light energy through the photocathode tube. However, it is not recommended to be used for long periods of time in daylight. If you use a night vision device in sunlight without the peephole lens cover, it is most likely you will damage the tube -- and normally void any warranty.

 

 

Question: How can I determine the best rangefinder for whitetail deer hunting?

Question: Who has the best technology in range finders?

Question: How much "range" should my rangefinder have?

Question: BigDaddy -- can you help me figure out how to use my rangefinder. Where can I get assistance?

 

 

Answer: The best answers to these questions depend on several subjective answers according to BigDaddy@HuntSports .. first of all you must determine the purpose of your rangefinder and your own set of requirements. FOR EXAMPLE: Let's say for "bowhunters" .. I'd guess that 100 yards is more than enough. However, on the other hand, if you also do rifle and muzzle loader hunting .. the ranging requirements could vary widely -- depending on where, what and how you hunt -- not to mention your expertise, experience and ability -- typically a whitetail deer hunter , or Mulie / Elk hunter may want a wide range of options for shooting 200, 300, 500 or up to 800 yards.

If you're talking about golfing  -- BigDaddy is not a golfer .. but it depends on the circumstances .. maybe a rangefinder of between 100 yards to 600 yards .. and remember all is relative to dark trees etc. and don't forget about specification variances from highly reflective surfaces to golf ball sized targets.

 

So when it comes to precision and optics excellence, one of the things that sets HALO RANGE FINDERS apart from the rest of the pack may very well be some of these important features and benefits when it comes to hunting.

 

Answer:  Opti-Logic: Halo Optics is the exclusive licensee of two patents held by Opti-Logic Corporation. Opti-Logic is viewed by many as the originator of handheld rangefinder technology, founded by product designers who literally helped put men on the moon. With over three decades of design innovation, Opti-Logic continues to lead the industry with trailblazing new ideas.

 

Answer: Angle Intelligence: Shots from elevated positions have less gravitational pull since they’re already traveling downward. Tree stand hunters know this often leads to overshot targets. To solve this, Angle Intelligence accounts for slope to target to calculate the angle compensated distance.

 

Answer: Auto Acquisition: Press a button, and you’ll have an exact range reading immediately. New Halo rangefinders continue to chip away at acquisition times – now two times faster than previous models.

 

Answer: Scan Mode: Lock in multiple targets at different yardages quickly and accurately. Scan Mode delivers up to four distance readings per second. So you’re free to react and adapt your plan without losing any time.

 

Answer: Glass Lenses: Found in our most premium models, glass lenses are 20 percent more efficient than standard lenses. This means "MAX RANGING" and target acquisition times are just about as close to perfect as you can get.

How do I choose between a reflex, tube, prismatic, holographic sight? - can you help?

Which sight system do I choose and why?

 

Bigdaddy's Answer -- you know, once upon a time, a red dot sight meant exactly that .. a sight that projects an illuminated red dot as an aiming point onto an objective lens -- today though it is a "generic term" that most shooters use to describe a type of weapon sight that uses any illuminated color aiming dot or another shape for the reticle.

There are a few different types of red dot sights -- reflex, tube, prismatic, and holographic types. The difference in the types as I understand it is how the sight works to project the reticle. Reflex and tube sights use a reflective glass lens and an LED, prismatic sights use prisms and holographic sights use a laser.

Dot sights offer shooters a great advantage in speed and all imporatnt target acquisition. These types of optics are quicker and far easier than iron sights or magnified scopes. That is because they can reflect the reticle’s projection in parallel with the sight’s optical axis, ensuring the point of aim and point of impact always coincide. They are designed so the reticle is always in focus when pointed at your target. There is no aligning of sights and no adjusting for different distances. The dot stays in focus no matter the distance of the target.

 

If you want to read more about these sights please see our complete lineup at:

http://sightmark.com/hunting.php

 

And .. there are a goodly number of YouTube Video available to review:

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=sightmark+red+dot

 

 

How often do you "rattle" for whitetail deer?

What is the "best way" to hunt during the whitetail rut?

What is a whitetail deer's favorite food?

When is a doe ready for breeding?

How can I tell when the whitetail rut starts in my area?

 

 

 

Whitetail Deer Hunter's .. Ask BigDaddy at HuntSports  | BigDaddy's FAQ'S

BIGDADDY ANSWERS .. FAQ'S
 

RATTLING: Pick a likely spot and start slowly and quietly -- rattling antlers lightly for only about 45-60 seconds .. then wait about five minutes -- repeat sequence but make the sound louder, longer and more "agressive" .. Wait about 15-20 minutes before rattling again, or moving quietly to another spot.

 

BEST WAY TO HUNT: I think as do many others who have hunted whitetails for many years -- the best way to increase your odds is to increase your time in a hunting stand -- elevated hunting blinds are undoubtedly the best .. ground blind or treestands work for bow hunting all day .. but may not be the most comfortable. REMEMBER -- you don't need to be miserable and cold to get a trophy whitetail "rut crazed" buck .. they will travel through -- so be alert .. be comfortable .. and take advantage of the buck's all day vulnerability.

 

FAVORITE FOOD: Very subjective as far as BigDaddy is concerned .. everywhere you look and read you see "Nuts" are the most preferred food of the whitetail deer -- sure they eat acorns, beechnuts, hickory nuts and pecans -- the only problem where we have hunted in South texas and Kansas -- none of these exist? We use supplemental deer feeders and roasted soybean and corn mixes work great! And in today market you now find all types of corn additives , scented products and the like .. I have found over many years - WHITETAILS LOVE A FREE LUNCH!!

 

BREEDING: Young Does / Fawns Can breed at around six to eight months of age according to the deer experts at QDMA .. and they'll tell you it's a Good Sign. Some doe fawns breed and conceive in their first fall. BigDaddy has always said this is another reason for what may appear to be a second .. or LATE RUT .. as these younger does were not in estrous during the early cycles.

 

THE RUT STARTING:  Here's what to look for - more Buck Activity .. When bucks start wandering from their beds well before sunset and also linger, often in groups, in or around doe feeding areas for an hour or two after sunrise, it's because they're looking for the first estrous does. That's a sure sign the rut is about to begin in full.

 

RUT STARTING STATISTICS - according to BigDaddy at Huntsports.com - one of the best ways I have found is to look into the states department of motor vehicles online statistical data bases - looking for the annual increase in deer and vehicle accident reporting of animal vehicle accidents .. you'll get a real ey-opener when you do this and see the annual reporting of accidemnts and dates ..

 

 

 

Whitetail Bow Hunter asks - What is the best deer feeder for me?

Do you have HOG-PROOF Feeders?

What is the difference between a broadcast and spincast feeder?

Ranch Manager Asks? - Do you carry all types of 6V and 12V digital feeder controls? 

 

 

 

BEST RATED ANSWER:

HuntSports offers an extensive line of deer, wildlife, big game and fish feeders nationwide - WE'RE ALL YOUR FEEDER NEEDS! Our Goal is to help meet your needs - with a wide array of traditional .. and not so traditional deer feeders, protein feeders, free choice corn and soybean feeders, tailgate feeders, ATV, UTV and SXS Road Feeders, Pet Feeders, Fish Feeders .. and other Specialty Feeders - Product Type and Brand Line Card: Ultramatic, Mighty Buck, MB Ranch King, Mighty Midget, All Seasons, Stand & Fill, EZ Reach, HB, Capsule, Game Feeder, THE JUDGE, Winch-Up Feeders, Texas Style feeders, HB Hunting Products, Timed Protein Feeders, LAMCO, Trough Feeders, Timed-Release Protein Feeders, Digital Timer Feeders, American Hunter, Boss-Buck, Wildgame Innovatoions, Ladder Feeders, Fish Feeders, HDPE UV-Feeders, Outback Feeders, Dually Feeders, Tailgate/Road Feeders, ATV, UTV, SXS Feeders, ELIMINATOR, Hercules, Pet Feeders. .

 

 

  • Broadcast and 360 Degree Spincast Feeders
  • Hog Proof Feeders of All Types
  • Tripod, Quadpod, Stand & Fill, Winch-Up and Ground Feeders
  • Protein Pellet Feeders - All Shapes and Sizes
  • Free Choice Feeders for Corn, Soybean, Pellets etc.  
  • Assorted ATV, UTV, Road and Sendero Feeders
  • Automatic Feeder Fillers
  • Digital, Dusk/Dawn Photocell, Analog Styles.
     

 

Need Help With Feeders ?? -- Ask .. BIGDADDY

BigDaddy@HuntSports.com

 

 

 

 

 

How many deer feeders do I need for my hunting ground?

Where is the best place to set deerfeeders up? Near water holes? Bedding areas? in my food plots? 
 
What types of products can I use in the different kinds of feeders? 

Of all the different deer feed types - hoe do I select one over the other? 

 

NEED FEEDER HELP  .. Email:  BigDaddy@HuntSports.com   

 

Over the last 40+ years of deer hunting .. BigDaddy has had many questions .. from old timers as well as new hunters about almost everything you can imagine .. so if you're looking for deer feeders and are confused .. then let BigDaddy know how he can help with HOGPROOF Feeders, Feeder Controllers, Spincast Units, Protein Feeders for supplemental feding and nutrition needed to be healthy and grow big antlers and producing a strong quality deer herd. Protein feeders in all styles such as "free choice" and trough styles, 6V and 12V Styles for regulated feeding for all seasons feeding for your deer, wildlife and exotics - and available in many sizes, capacities and styles: 200 Lb, 300 Lb, 350 Lb, 400 Lb, 500 Lb, 600 Lb, 700 Lb, 800 Lb, 1000 Lb, 1200 Lb HDPE and Galvanized Feeders, Stand & Fill Feeders, Ground Level Feeders, 3-Way, 4-Way, 55 Gallon feeders, Cotton seed Feeders, Skid/Sled Style Feeders, Square leg and round leg feeders by Ranch King, Mighty Buck Timed Protein Feeders, LAMCO 800 Pound Timed Trough Feeders, Boss Buck, All Seasons, HB Hunting Products, Outback, Ultramatic, Mighty-Buck, EZ Reach Feeders, Capsule Game Feeders, Auger Drive feeders and more.

 

 

 

 

 

Are there any distance restrictions for hunting over my deer feeder during hunting seasons?

Am I required to use an above ground feeding unit?

Is a Spincast feeder better than a drop tube feeder?

What distance from my property line is required for feeder placements?

Can I place a feeder on public land?

 

Over the last 40+ years of deer hunting .. BigDaddy has had many questions .. from old timers as well as new hunters about almost everything you can imagine .. so if you're looking for deer feeders and are confused .. then let BigDaddy know how he can help with HOGPROOF Feeders, Feeder Controllers, Spincast Units, Protein Feeders for supplemental feding and nutrition needed to be healthy and grow big antlers and producing a strong quality deer herd. Protein feeders in all styles such as "free choice" and trough styles, 6V and 12V Styles for regulated feeding for all seasons feeding for your deer, wildlife and exotics - and available in many sizes, capacities and styles: 200 Lb, 300 Lb, 350 Lb, 400 Lb, 500 Lb, 600 Lb, 700 Lb, 800 Lb, 1000 Lb, 1200 Lb HDPE and Galvanized Feeders, Stand & Fill Feeders, Ground Level Feeders, 3-Way, 4-Way, 55 Gallon feeders, Cotton seed Feeders, Skid/Sled Style Feeders, Square leg and round leg feeders by Ranch King, Mighty Buck Timed Protein Feeders, LAMCO 800 Pound Timed Trough Feeders, Boss Buck, All Seasons, HB Hunting Products, Outback, Ultramatic, Mighty-Buck, EZ Reach Feeders, Capsule Game Feeders, Auger Drive feeders and more.

 

NEED HELP - Email:  BigDaddy@HuntSports.com   

What is the brightest feeder hog hunting lights?

What is the best LED Lights for feeder lights for night hunting hogs?

What is the best LED hoglight for my deer feeders?

How many lumens can I get around my hoglight feeder setup?

What are your best and most powerful led feederlights?

What color light is best for wild hog and boar feederlights when hunting at night?

What color light is best for coyote hunting at night?

Is red, green or white lights best for feeder lights when hunting hogs?

Does wildlife see red lights at night?

 

BIGDADDY ANSWERS:  There are so many different types and combinations .. based on your needs, types of hunting, where you hunt and so much more - there are Dusk To Dawn Feeder Lights, HogLights, BigDaddy's Super Bright LED Lights, Boar hunting feeder lights, 55 Gallon Barrel Lid Lights, DIY Feeder Lights, LED Lights, Red, Blue, Green and White lights, INFRARED LED LIGHTS [Night Vision] AMMO CAN LIGHTS, Different Light Housings, Colored Lenses, variations of Dusk to Dawn Sensors, many types of PhotoCell Sensors and Photo Cell Switches, various sizes of Disconnect Cables, 12V Battery Sizes, all kinds of LED LIGHTS, LightHousings, Pilot Light Housings, On/Off Switches, Solar Panels and Chargers needed based on other factors, different Wiring Diagrams and so much more.    

 

Let BigDaddy know what you need .. and your budget .. and he can help.

 

What's involved in fabricating my own deer feeder hog light assembly for night hunting?

 

Can I build a feeder hogligt for shooting hogs at night at about 100 Yards?

 

Hog Feeder Light Systems For Hunting Wild Boars, Feral Hogs and Pigs at Night?

 

 

BEST ANSWER: Just let BigDaddy@HuntSports.com know what you want and need ..

Check out The YouTube Channel ..

https://www.youtube.com/user/BigDaddyNHC

 

BigDaddy has plans and experience with all types of feeder hoglights and plans ..  Dusk To Dawn Feeder Lights, HogLights, BigDaddy's Super Bright LED Lights, Boar hunting feeder lights, 55 Gallon Barrel Lid Lights, DIY Feeder Lights, LED Lights, Red, Blue, Green and White lights, INFRARED LED LIGHTS [Night Vision] AMMO CANS, Light Housings, Colored Lenses, Dusk/Dawn Sensors, 12V PhotoCell Sensors, PhotoCell Switch, Quick Disconnect Cables, 12V Battery, LED LIGHTS, LightHousings, LED Spotlights, Pilot Light Housings, On/Off Switches, Solar Panels and Chargers, Wiring Diagrams, Charge Controllers.    

 

 

I want to build my own deer feeders from parts - can you help with instructions?

 

Deer Feeder Control System Assembly Set-Up Directions and Outlines: (1) Connect the two-prong plug from the motor, to the matching plug on the wire harness for the timer. (2) Attach the solar panel unit to the control box so that the wires are inside the control box. Locate knockouts on back of the control box (Box Mount Panel) or single knockout on the side of the control box for (Drum Mount Panel). (3) Install the battery on the right hand side of the control box. Face the connector posts to the front. Plug the piggyback connectors from the solar panel wires to the positive and negative posts on the battery. (4) Attach the two clips from the timer to the piggyback clips on the battery posts. (5) NOTE: The arms of your control system are adjustable. Set the pre-installed slinger to 1/8” or ¼” past the funnel spout. This will keep Raccoons and Squirrels from flipping the gates open and throwing off the balance of your system. Tighten the wing nuts firmly so the vibration won’t loosen them over time.

 

BigDaddy Suggests You Consider:
http://www.huntsports.com/content/bigdaddys-whole-enchilada-diy-plans-deer-blinds-stands-feeders-hog-hunting-lights-windows

If we want to purchase more than a single item, can we get any volume order discounts on feeders, parts, scouting cameras or deer blynds?

 

Q. Can I use the F-tab battery in my RD-PRO or Analog control unit?

A. We do recommend a 6V5AH "spring top" high quality brand battery for best results.

 

Q. How do I connect the varmint buster to my feeder?

A. If your feeder kit is compatible with the Varmit Buster there will be a wiring connector on the varmint buster that your  feeder controller will connect to.

Q. How do I put the battery in my R-PRO or RD-PRO feeder control kits?

A. Simply slide the battery in the side spring side first and then lock it in with the metal retaining bracket.

Q. How long should I charge my rechargeable battery?

A. We recommend that the first time you charge the battery from 8 to 12 hours and disregard any lights on the charger. After the  initial charging you will want to charge the battery when it gets low .. and never charge the battery for longer than 24 hours. We  also recommend the use of the appropriate solar chargers for long term best results.

Q. Why did the feeder legs I ordered not come with bolts or screws to hold them together?

A. These leg units do not come with hardware for the leg assembly. The legs slide together and will stay - however, many hunters will  assemble with "self-tapping" metal screws to make them more rigid.

 

Q.  How do I find the nearest parts and product dealer nearest to me?

A. Most folks outside of Texas will find it easier to order parts, feeders and hunting blinds from our online national distributor at  www.HuntSports.com .. and BigDaddy ( the owner ) is a vast wealth of experience and knowledge to assit you with the best products  to meet your needs.

 

Q.  If we want to buy more than a single item - Can we get a volume order discount for buying more than one feeder or deerblind?

A. Yes, your total quantity order will dictate final negotiated prices - The higher the quantity, the greater the discounts. To  ask questions concerning discounts on the small feeders or larger feeders, blinds, stands, parts etc. - CONTACT our online  national distributor at www.HuntSports.com .. and BigDaddy ( the owner ) will help you out.

 

 

BigDaddy Answers Many Questions and Inquiries About Hunting Blinds and Deerstands ..  

 

FAQ - A hunter asks BigDaddy - Why do you think the Blynd is a good value?  

ANSWER - The Blynd plastic hunting blinds are designed for the durability that hunters demand. Blinds that stand up to extreme weather conditions and easy to clean, maintain - and get replacement parts if needed! BigDaddy knows that given a choice most trophy deer hunters would rather spend extra time in their BLYND .. than trying to pay for a some more expensive blinds.

FAQ - Is there a warranty on TheBlynd hunting stands and blinds? 

ANSWER - The Blynd comes with a limited warranty. We will replace any part that fails due to faulty materials and or workmanship. Of course, the warranty does not cover improper use or weather-related damages - But Your Home owners Insurance Will In Most Cases!

FAQ - How long can I expect The Blynd to last me?

BigDaddy's ANSWER - UNTIL IT WEARS OUT! .. With minimal maintenance, it should last a long long time. We have customers who are still using The Blynd that was purchased in the early 1980's .. most company's are long gone in just a few years. 

FAQ - Is The Blynd insulated?

ANSWER - No. The Black Blynd and our NEW OD Green models will draw heat on a sunny day .. but as BigDaddy says: using a small propane heater like the Mr. Heater Little Buddy will make you most comfortable in any cold climates. 

FAQ - Is The Blynd an air tight hunting stand? 

ANSWER - No. There are small holes around the door and windows that let in air to keep the inside of The Blynd more comfortable. As a result, you may want to use deer scent control products and possibly bug-bomb repellents prior to the season. 

FAQ - Is it possible to spray paint or camo paint The Blynd?

ANSWER - Yes. BigDaddy recommends the Krylon Fushion plastic spray paint or something specifically formulated for plastics. As a result, if you decide to "camo" your Blynd, expect to re-do it every few years.

 

FAQ - Can I lock my new Blynd?

ANSWER - With the new door system, you can lock your Blynd. If you purchased the blind prior to 2003, you can get a door conversion kit to change from the double door system to a single, lockable one.

FAQ - How do I best care for my Blynd?  .. and Do you sell replacement and repair parts?

ANSWER - Yes, if some part of The Blynd has been damaged, we can provide a replacement. If it is not damage under warranty, contact us for a quote on the replacement parts. Parts damaged due to a manufacturing defect will be replaced at no charge.

FAQ -  What can I do to prevent weather damages to The Blynd?

ANSWER - The materials used in the manufacture of The Blynd include a UV stabilizer to prevent weather deterioration, and the polyethylene is rated to withstand temperatures ranging from -60 degrees to + 150 degrees F.; There are some things that you can do to preserve your Blynd - These include: Preventing Window Freezing in the aluminum track - like drilling some small "weep holes" to allow water to drain out; In extremly windy conditions, the windows have a tendency to "walk" in the track and may blow out. You can drill a small hole on each side of the window opening and then insert a nail in each hole for stops; Purchasing the off-season window inserts is also a good idea;

FAQ -  What are the Window dimensions?

ANSWER - The Blynd windows are 7 3/4" X 15 3/4" and the window opening is 7" X 29"; Window track is 36" long; The height of windows from the floor is 42".

FAQ -  What about heavy snow loads in our area of the country .. is this an issue?

ANSWER - Preventing Roof Damage Due To Heavy Snow Loads may be an issue in some parts of the whitetail hunting range — The roof is not designed to withstand the weight of a heavy snow. In order to prevent it from collapsing, make a simple "T" brace of 2x4's on the 4x4 model - For the 4x8 model, we recommend framing the inside of The Blynd in 2x4s for additional support.

FAQ -  What about heavy rains and moisture - is the Blynd water-proof?

ANSWER - Preventing Floor Damage and to prevent moisture from rotting the plywood floor you need to keep it off the ground. If you are not using one of our towers, we recommend using wood posts, railroad ties, or a wood pallet under The Blynd. You can also lag bolt The Blynd to these to prevent it from blowing over in a high wind. We provide a ½” plywood floor for your Blynd and recommend that you treat it with a water sealer prior to assembly to extend its life.

FAQ -  If The Blynd gets blown over by high winds .. is it repairable?

ANSWER - Honestly, The Blynd is almost indestructible and 99% of the time you can just reassemble it. Typically, it will pop at the seams where it is screwed together. To repair it, pick a spot near the original hole and use the screws and clips to put it back together. If you end up with a tear in the plastic, silicone can be used to patch it.  If the panels get twisted as the result of a fall, most of the time you can return them to their original shape by warming them in the sun or use a heat gun. 

 

 

What is the best deerblind made for whitetail deer hunting in Kansas? 

Do you have a preference for a deer hunting stand for use in New Your vs. Illinois? ..  or Pennsylvania ? .. Minnesota?

 

By far .. HuntSports MOST FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTION directed to BigDaddy - Who makes the "best" hunting blinds in the USA?

 

BigDaddy's ANSWER: You don't have to be a rocket scientist to know and see that in the industry everybody offers a "take-off" of others in some form or fashion .. it's like cars .. there are many different "models" .. each with FEATURES .. ADVATAGES .. AND BENEFITS that the other guys do not offer .. it's like the difference in a Nissan Versa and a Lamborghini or a Silverado Pickup .. all related to what you need and what you are willing to spend to get it! - but for many years I have said that "longevity" is important and The Blynd is the original that goes back to the 1980's .. when none of the others were around.

Over the years, their love of whitetail deer hunting has led them to a prominent position .. and a price point that is hard to beat! Are they the absolute BEST? .. NO .. but for many hunter's on a strict budget or limited resources they are good! We also have available the Top Brands with every option and ammenity a whiteail hunter could ever want - Ranch-King, Boss-Buck, Muddy, Maverick, Texas-Hunter and others - whatever your needs and wants and in every price range .. and options from set-up and delivery to whatever you have in mind!

Want to discuss it .. Call BigDaddy at HuntSports.

 

 

 

Does my scouting | trail camera shoot in JPEG or RAW?

I can fit more or less photos on my digital deer scouting camera memory card than your calcultor says. Is something wrong?

How many megapixels is my camera?

 

 

FAQS --- ANSWERS ---- FAQS ----  Answers  ---  FAQS

 

Does my scouting | trail camera shoot in JPEG or RAW?

If you're using most normal deer scouting and trail cameras ..  then your camera will normally shoot in the JPEG format. There are higher end settings on some that might shoot photos in RAW, however unless you have explicently changed the setting, it will be in JPEG mode by default.

 

I can fit more or less photos on my digital deer scouting camera memory card than your calcultor says. Is something wrong?

This calculator gives a guide to how many photos you will fit. Not all photos take up the same amount of space, thus sometimes you may get more or fewer photos on your memory card.

 

What size memory card should I get fro my new scouting camera | trail cam ?

There is no right answer to this as it will depend on your own individual requirements .. how long between trips to your hunting ground, the types of scouting cam settings etc. etc. etc. For many an 8GB will might be enough for most deer scouting unless you're shooting combinations of burst shots, video formats etc. then you should look at 16GB to 32GB as memory cards are cheap!

 

Should I pay more for a high speed card?

Depends on how you're shooting pictures with your scouting camera - but probably not. Class 6 speed cards or higher should be fine. If you're shooting with a trail camera set up to take lots of photos , videos and burst modes a high speed card maybe a worthwhile investment. Be sure you read your paperwork with your new trail cam.
 

How many megapixels is my camera?

Most deer scouting cams and trail cameras are labeled with the answer to this question. Otherwise it will be on the box or in the manual that came with your scouting camera.

 

 

How can I ensure that my deer food plot will succeed?

What can be done to ensure the deer foodplot on my hunting lease will be the best it can be? 

 

ANSWER .. from BigDaddy at HuntSports.com  .. be sure to invest a few dollars in the Soil Test Kit from Texas A&M University, the QDMA or the Whitetail Institute and ensure the most successful food plot possible - save yourself money and time. Testing your soil is the MOST IMPORTANT STEP for ensuring food plot success. Find out exactly how much lime and fertilizer is required and makes sure you don’t buy more than you need .. or waste your time - A soil test can be the difference between the best food you can imagine and total failure.

 

• Ensure the most successful food plot possible with the right information

• Soil tests will save you money on fertilizer and lime - and time!

• Soil test kits are so very easy to use - Everything you need is included.

• Results by mail or email within one to 2 weeks

• You can also get professional consultations and advice. 

 

GET SOIL TEST INFO CLICK HERE

There are so many feeder systems available today. Can you help with answers to what? .. and Why? .. when it comes to choices today?  

ANSWER:  HuntSports Deer Feeder Buying Guide and the Game Feeder Buyer's Guide by BigDaddy from HuntSports.com

 

Today's whitetail deer hunters are searching for the best investments in the internet marketplace .. and new ideas and year to year changes in some technologies may add a little "hype" .. or "BS" as BigDaddy likes to call it .. the concept of growing or creating trophy whitetail bucks is no longer a phantasy .. If you buy and set up a good quality deer feeder, they will come - and the bottom line is simple - remember basic "psychology" .. and the Pavlovian theory? .. Pavlov called the dogs' anticipatory salivation "psychic secretion" .. Putting these informal observations to an experimental test, Pavlov presented a stimulus (e.g. the sound of a metronome) and then gave the dog food; after a few repetitions, the dogs started to salivate in response to the stimulus. BIGDADDY SAYS .. think about it ??

You set up a good feeding system and CALL THE DEER .. they also develop a "psychic secretion" .. Putting these observations to an experimental test .. (e.g. the sound of a feeder going off ) .. and then the deer get food .. and after a few repetitions .. the deer will respond to the stimulus.

 

You want to see what I came up with - I know it works!

Just watch this little YouTube Video .. https://youtu.be/_9u9ib3WOII

Basic Feeder Design and Construction

Typically, the design and construction of whitetail feeders is standard. There’s a barrel ( or hopper ) that holds the corn or feed, which opens and releases into a funnel .. and then goes into a spinning plate that slings or spreads the corn. The funnel system normally ensures clog free operation. A trough style or free choice feeder drops feed straight onto the ground or into a bin. barrels and hoppers are constructed of many materials like rust-resistant powder-coated steel, polyethylene or plastic to withstand the elements. Some plastic models even have a UV-resistant to protect them from the sun’s harmful rays. It is highly recommended that your feeder have a waterproof and solid lid, so that animals and the elements don’t tamper with the feed. Today's modern feeders typically hold anywhere from 50 to 2000 lbs. of corn, soybeans, roasted soybeans etc. or a lesser amount of protein feed. Some feeders have adjustable legs with footpads that keep the unit off the ground and out of the reach of rodents.

Power Systems: Batteries and Solar Panel Chargers

Automatic feeders include battery powered 6V or 12V motor drives, scatter plates etc. Today most will integrate solar panels for efficiency, low maintenance and consistent operations - by adding a solar charger to your feeder you can prolong the life of ythe battery. Obviously, it’s important to mount the solar panel where it will receive the most exposure to the sun.

 

Digital vs. Analog

The manner in which food is dispensed from a deer or wildlife feeder will generally have a direct correlation on its cost. If you want one with a photocell timer that automatically feeds at sunrise and sunset .. then you’ll probably pay a little less than some of the more elaborate digital timer systems - these can be set for specific feeding times .. specific days of the week .. and automatic feeding times and feed dispersal rates. They have LCDs that display many features, such as feedtimes, battery strength, spinner plate RPM's and more.

Hanging vs. Freestanding

Feeders can either be hung from trees or they can be freestanding from either a tripod or four-leg base. Some feeders even sport stairs to make the task of loading the feed into your hopper easier. Higher quality feeders have a ladder and a standing platform. A standing platform frees up your hands so you can pour food into the hopper.

 

Our family of brands, selection of brands, shipping and handling methods will bring you the products you order  and are looking for in the fastest possibe manner - within our network of suppliers for business to customer [B2C] and commercial suppliers [B2B] - related manufacturers and distributors now have several targeted ways to reach customers and enable us to find new ways to engage customers, fullfill and ship orders and products through various online platforms. We reserve the right to utilize all available sales platforms for fastest fulfillment networks such as [FBA] and others. We reserve all rights to determine all best fullfillment strategies for best shipping preferences, product order availability, fastest order fullfillments, and best methods and means as determined by us to fullfill your orders.
 

Q: We're always asked .. How long will my deerblind or hunting stand last?

A: With careful routine maintenance and care most of the top blinds and stands today will last a lifetime. But be advised .. improper set up, not "anchoring" an elevated blind or stand properly, exposure to high winds, hurricanes and such will severely impact any blind or stand. BigDaddy also advises this: Most hunters do not realize that their homeowners insurance covers such losses. 

Q: Are these manufactured deerblinds and stands pest and bug proof?

 

A: Today so many of these blinds and stands are manufactured and assembled with very close tolerances on the doors and windows that to keeping out owls, wasps, yellow jackets, mice etc. are of little concern. What BigDaddy suggests is that at the springtime visit to your hunting lease you simply take some "bug bombs" with you .. set one off and toss into your stands and shut the door. This takes care of all kinds of pests for months.

Q: Is it necessary to have a locking deer blind? .. What are the advantages?

Q: Is it necessary to have a locking deer blind?

A: In my opinion yes - In South Texas we have experienced illegal aliens sleeping and cooking in our blinds .. you tell me? With the current wave of liberalism in our country you might want to consider this no matter where you hunt .. next thing you know with all the liberals today and activist judges .. you'll get into a lawsuit with an illegal that get's hurt while trespassing in your blind!

 

 

Q: My old box blinds and stands sound like I'm banging on a drum when I bump up against it. How can I eliminate this?

A: The floors and inner walls of your deer blind should be covered to the windows with a high quality carpeting to dampen any sound from accidental bumps etc. The result is a deer blind that can absorb most sound from within the blind or noise generated from hitting the walls. However what BigDaddy at HuntSports says is this: If you buy a deerstand that is large enough to move around in .. you are much less likely to bump and hit the walls. For example many guys opt in for a 4X4 blind and a "cheesy" seat usually because they don't want to invest the money ---  BigDaddy from HuntSports  prefers comfort and quiet .. so a nice comfortable chair in a 5X5 or larger blind is so much better .. and as you get older .. worth evey penny!

 

Q: Is a greater field of view from a stand advatageous? 

A: Many blinds and stands today offer what we call a 360 degree field-of-view. Most are designed with windows and a field of fire which will overlap with each adjacent window and even to the door to eliminate views blocked by the door. Always set up your blind or stand such that the door is facing towards the area from which an animal is least likely to come from. Todqay's rifles and hunters are getting very sofisticated and long range shooters are getting better and better.

Q: Why are so many blinds and stands black or dark camo patterns? Wouldn't other colors be effective?

A: The color black is unique. Mixing pigments is additive, thus meaning if pigment is added to white it makes color .. add enough pigment and you get all the way to black, the presence of all colors. Your brain interprets the presence of all colors as white and the absence of light as black - that's why using a blackout type interior, wearing camo and installing perforated window films can be so effective while hunting from a deerblind or stand with proper finishes.

About Hunting .. Hunting & Wildlife FAQ'S .. Hunting Regulations and More

Frequently Asked Questions About Hunting .. Hunting & Wildlife FAQ'S .. Hunting Regulations .. Changes for this year?

Information for the new seasons and changes | legal to hunt with a crossbow? | Hunting Regulations | Do I need an antlerless deer permit? | Managed Lands Deer Program (MLDP) | season dates for game animals? | Wildlife Resource Document | tag or permit requirements | Hunting and Wildlife, Outdoor Annual, list of ranches I can lease | Chamber of Commerce | How do I get information on hunting in other states? | HIP Certification | U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service | migratory game birds | Hunting & Wildlife FAQS | Public Hunting Land Maps | Annual Public Hunting Permits |  Public hunting opportunities for large game animals, turkey, javelina, alligator, feral hogs, exotics species for both adults and youth? | Special Permit Drawn Hunts program. | Frequently Asked Questions About Social Security Number Requirements, Child Support Enforcement | Texas Parks & Wildlife | WHAT DEER PERMITS ARE AVAILABLE, AND HOW MUCH ARE PERMIT FEES? | RESIDENTS | NONRESIDENTS | ANTLERLESS-ONLY WHITE-TAILED DEER  etc.

Please go to: http://www.huntsports.com/content/dow-dnr-rules

As always, consult with a local wildlife biologist if you need guidance.

Not necessarily. Sighting rates by hunters are usually not a reliable indicator of deer density. For example, research has documented that sighting rates drop in years with exceptionally heavy acorn crops – most likely because food is abundant and deer do not need to move far to feed. Other factors such as weather and hunting pressure play roles. In short, it is possible to have a stable or even rising deer population and see fewer deer while hunting than you did last year. Therefore, do not assume you need to shoot fewer does. If you are collecting harvest and observation data and/or conducting trail-camera surveys (all part of the Herd Monitoring “Cornerstone”), then your complete set of data will provide reliable clues about the actual deer density and appropriate doe-harvest goals. As always, consult with a local wildlife biologist if you need guidance.
 

I captured trail-camera photos of mature bucks, proving that my QDM is working .. but I never see them while hunting.

This is a technique that is only recommended in the most advanced deer management programs with extensive acreage, highly experienced hunters or professionally trained managers, and an actual surplus of adult bucks – situations that are extremely rare in North America. And in no free-roaming situation does this technique affect genetics, for better or worse. There is much confusion and debate surrounding this question, but scientific research is clear – QDM programs are better off harvesting only the bucks that meet age criteria and allowing as many bucks as possible to reach older age classes and contribute to a complete buck age structure.

I captured trail-camera photos of mature bucks, proving that QDM is working, but I never see these deer while hunting. What’s wrong?

One of the most exciting challenges of hunting a quality-managed population is matching wits with a mature buck. A buck that has survived many seasons may be very difficult to harvest, even during the rut.
 These deer are not un-killable, but they are certainly capable of patterning hunters, as research has shown. If mature bucks are present but you never see them while hunting, examine your own patterns to see if you are a predictable hunter. Are you hunting the same stand every time? Do you ride an ATV or pickup all the way to your stand? Are you constantly “bumping” and “spooking” deer as you pass through food plots, bedding areas and other prime habitat on your way to your stand? Do you pay attention to wind direction and select stand locations accordingly?

Research has shown on both public and private land that deer, especially older bucks, frequent the areas with the lowest hunting pressure. Sometimes, hunting a site that has never been hunted before – even if you don’t think of it as a good area – can change your fortunes quickly.

the best buck-harvest rules consider antler points .. spread .. beam length and age

Under Quality Deer Management, your goal is to build age structure, meaning you want to increase the numbers of bucks in older age classes. To achieve this goal, age is the best criteria to use when harvesting bucks; set an appropriate age-based harvest rule based on local herd conditions, hunter experience level, and hunter desires. The starting point is protecting most or all yearling bucks and harvesting bucks 2 1/2 or older, then adjust your target age upwards as you advance.

However, this is not the most practical rule, especially when you are starting out, because it is more difficult to learn to judge the age of live bucks than it is to count antler points or estimate inside spread. The problem with antler-based rules is that there is much overlap in antler points, spread and size across age classes. For example, some yearling bucks may be eligible for harvest under a "points-on-a-side" rule, while some mature bucks may not be eligible for harvest under "inside spread" rules because they have narrow spreads.

Therefore, if you elect to go with an antler-based rule to start with, until the hunters in your group are more confident and skilled with judging age, make sure your antler rule is designed to protect all yearling bucks. Also, design an antler-based rule so that it does not protect adult deer that could be enjoyed by hunters. It is best to consult with a local wildlife biologist to get advice on designing an antler-based harvest rule that is suited to your local deer population.

Contact your state wildlife agency for guidance.

The minimum goal for all QDM programs is to protect most or all 1½-year-old (or “yearling”) bucks .. After all, it takes 3½ years to produce a 3½-year-old buck.

The minimum goal for all QDM programs is to protect most or all 1½-year-old (or “yearling”) bucks. If you have never killed a 2½-year-old buck and would be happy with this achievement first, this is where you should begin. Once this goal is met, you may wish to begin protecting 2½-year-old bucks as well, while trying to harvest a 3½-year-old... and so on. As long as you progressively improve the “age structure” of bucks (or the numbers of bucks in each age class), then the definition of a “quality” buck should be determined by your personal goals. However, you should also clearly understand the consequences of your goals – if you harvest 2½-year-old bucks, they will not become 3½-year-olds.

In a group of hunters with varying levels of experience, buck-harvest goals should be determined by the lowest level of experience in the group, or they should be a compromise between low and high. If buck-harvest goals are set far above the experience level of most hunters in the group, these hunters are likely to be dissatisfied with their QDM experience.

The most important thing is to set harvest goals that are realistic and appropriate for the deer population. If your definition of a “quality” buck is far above what the habitat and region are likely to produce, you will be disappointed. If you start with the expectation of harvesting mature bucks when there are none in the local population, you will be disappointed. After all, it takes 3½ years to produce a 3½-year-old buck.
QDM should be fun, and by starting with realistic goals and working your way up, you ensure plenty of fun along the way.

There are also benefits from hunting healthier deer, including heavier body weights.

There are many benefits for hunters in a Quality Deer Management program.

When a deer population is socially balanced, with roughly equal numbers of bucks and does, and with all ages of bucks represented, hunters witness the full range of social behaviors. “Bachelor groups” of bucks can be observed in summer. Rubs and scrapes are more common in the woods. Hunters witness more buck fights, see more bucks chasing does, and more often hear vocalizations like grunting. Calling techniques like rattling are more productive. Overall, the rut is more apparent and intense, leading to a more enjoyable hunting experience and higher hunting success.

Because these hunters see more bucks of all ages, they become skilled at understanding deer behavior and at judging deer age and antler quality in the field.

Other benefits include dramatically increased success at finding shed antlers, which also leads to greater knowledge of travel corridors, bedding areas and feeding habits. Working with habitat and planting food plots increases a hunter’s connection to the earth, to wildlife and the outdoors, and many QDM practitioners report happily that hunting becomes a year-round pursuit instead of being limited to hunting season. Some hunters have said that finding a fawn hiding safely in early successional growth established specifically for fawning cover, or capturing a trail-camera photo of a mature buck using a newly designated “sanctuary,” was as rewarding as their most successful hunt. There are also benefits from hunting healthier deer, including heavier body weights.

the "general" Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the "general" Frequently Asked Questions?

Do you sell to the public?
Do you have a store where I can come look at your products?
How long will it take to ship my order?
How do I track my order?
How do I become a dealer?
Where do I find a dealer closest to me?
Can I get a discount for buying more than one feeder or blind?
What kind of warranty comes with your products?
What are the shipping charges?
What is a CVV code and where do I find it?
If I do have a problem with one of your products, should I take it back to where I bought it or send it back to you?
If I have to send my product back, what should I include with it?
Do you have a catalog/brochure? If so, how do I get one mailed to me?
I have a question about a particular product. How do I get my question answered?
Which automatic unit do I need to convert my 55 Gal barrel feeder from a protein/gravity to an automatic spincast?
Which automatic unit do I need to purchase to fit my 55 gallon drum?
Does the feeder box come with a warranty?
Can I order through HuntSports and have it shipped to a Bass Pro Shyop or Cabela's close to me?
Do you offer military discounts?
What is the height from the barrel to the bottom of the feed tubes when ordering a Gravity Lower Unit Conversion Kit ?

If you have your deer commercially processed, request that your animal be processed individually, without meat from other animals being added.

The VDGIF advises hunters to follow these simple recommendations:

 

  • Do not shoot, handle, or consume any animal that is abnormal or appears to be sick.
  • Wear latex or rubber gloves when field dressing your deer.
  • Bone out meat from your deer.
  • Do not saw through bone and avoid cutting through the brain or spinal cord (backbone).
  • Minimize handling of brain, spinal tissues, or fluids.
  • Wash hands and instruments thoroughly after field dressing is completed.
  • Avoid consuming brain, spinal cord, eyes, spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes of deer. Normal field dressing, coupled with boning out a carcass, will remove most, if not all, of these body parts.
  • If you have your deer commercially processed, request that your animal be processed individually, without meat from other animals being added.

In later stages, infected animals begin to display abnormal behavior such as staggering

How can you tell if a deer has CWD?

In early stages of infection, animals do not show any symptoms. In fact, most deer with CWD do not appear sick. The incubation period can range from 1-5 years. In later stages, infected animals begin to display abnormal behavior such as staggering, carrying the head and ears lowered, drooling, not showing fear of humans, and an exaggerated wide posture. Sick animals may have poor hair coats and appear emaciated, or starving - thus the name "wasting disease." Clinical symptoms are typically not seen in deer less than 16 months of age. Some CWD symptoms may also be characteristic of diseases or conditions other than CWD (e.g., bacterial brain abscesses, hemorrhagic disease, or normal spring and fall hair shedding).

How is CWD diagnosed?

The only way to make a definitive diagnosis is to examine the brain and/or lymph nodes in a laboratory. There is no practical live-animal test for free-ranging cervids, and there is no vaccine or treatment for CWD.

What should I do if I see a deer that shows CWD symptoms?

Do not attempt to contact, disturb, kill, or remove the animal. You should accurately document the location of the animal and immediately contact the VDGIF at 1-804-367-1000 or the office listed below that is nearest to you. Arrangements will be made to investigate the report. Offices are located at Blacksburg (540) 961-8304, Farmville (434) 392-9645, Fredericksburg (540) 899-4169, Forest (434) 525-7522, Marion (276) 783-4860, Verona (540) 248-9360, and Charles City (804) 829-6580.

As of January 1, 2013, CWD has been found in

CWD is a progressive neurological (brain and nervous system) disease found in North American deer, elk, and moose. CWD belongs to a family of diseases known as transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSE's). CWD causes a characteristic spongy degeneration in the brains of infected animals, resulting in emaciation, abnormal behavior, loss of bodily functions, and ultimately death.

Where has CWD been found?

As of January 1, 2013, CWD has been found in Alberta, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Oklahoma, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Eleven states have large well-established and growing populations

Do all states have wild pigs?

We have recently classified the states with wild pigs into various categories for management planning purposes.

Fourteen states currently do not have wild pigs: AK, CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, MN, MT, ND, RI, SD, VT, WA, and WY.

Eight states have small isolated populations: CO, ID, IA, NE, NV, NH, NJ and UT.

Four states have established but stable populations: IN, KS, WV and IL.

Thirteen states have established and increasing populations: AZ, KY, MI, MS, MO, NM, NY, NC, OH, OR, PA, VA and WI.

Eleven states have large well-established and growing populations: AL, AR, CA, FL, GA, HI, LA, OK, SC, TN and TX.

great online resources about wild hogs, boars and pigs

BigDaddy says there are three (3) websites that can provide plenty of additional and good information:
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s wild pig website: http://feralhogs.tamu.edu
National Wild Pig Community of Practice website: www.extension.org/feral_hogs
Texas A&M AgriLife Research and Extension Center at Overton: http://overton.tamu.edu

wider gates may reduce the training time necessary for adult wild pigs to accept the presence of and enter traps.

Which wild hog trap doors work best?

Recent research in Alabama and confirmed in Texas has shown that continuous catch doors (saloon, rooter and swinging door gates) do not continue to catch additional wild pigs once the door is tripped. Therefore, the use of drop (guillotine) gates can be added to the list of effective trap doors or gates. Research in Texas was also being conducted on the width of gate openings. Camera data previously suggested that many adult pigs have an aversion to entering narrower less than 36" W gate openings. However, research findings did not confirm this. Regardless, wider gates may reduce the training time necessary for adult wild pigs to accept the presence of and enter traps.

 Are all traps the same?

Recent research in Georgia has shown that the catch rate in corral traps is 4 times higher than in box traps. Also, boars have exhibited an aversion to entering the smaller box traps. Additional Alabama research found that boars spent an average of 32 minutes per visit to a bait/trap site while sounders spent 70 minutes per visit on average. Also, sounders made twice as many trips to the sites as compared to boars. In Oklahoma, researchers caught more pigs per unit of effort using drop nets as compared to corral traps. They are currently investigate the effectiveness of a “hybrid” trap that combines the attributes of a corral trap and drop net. Regardless, one study showed that 73% of pigs that were trapped and marked were recaptured at a later date. Lastly, one study found that 10 of 12 traps (83%) captured additional pigs within one week of pigs being euthanized in the traps. This suggests that blood left in a trap is not necessarily a deterrent to other pigs.

Competition for habitat .. food supplies .. and lots of crop damages ..

Deer hunting in Texas is annually a $2.2 billion industry.

Wild pigs impact white-tailed deer in 3 ways: 1) they compete ( and often out-compete) deer for native mast (e.g., acorns) as a food supply in the Fall, 2) they compete for supplemental food sources (forages, corn fed as bait for hunting and protein supplements) that are meant for deer. We feed 300 million pounds of shelled corn and at least 120 million pounds of protein annually in TX, with a good portion of that feed going to non-target species such as raccoons and wild pigs. Last Fall, shelled wildlife corn had a retail cost of $20 per 100 pounds (protein costs even more). We are likely making our wild pig population larger by feeding white-tailed deer where they share habitats because of unintended supplement consumption by the pigs. Now, this is Texas and we are not going to stop feeding deer, so we need to exclude feral pigs from deer feeders. The Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service and TAMU-Kingsville conducted a study in 2009 that showed that feeder pens at heights of 28” and 34” effectively denied wild pig access to supplement without significantly impacting deer access. Cost per circular feeder pen is about $170 for six 16’ panels x 34” and 12 t-posts, and 3) deer don’t tolerate pigs very well and typically vacate the immediate areas when pigs show up at feeder locations/stations.

Wild Hogs, Feral Pigs and Russian Boars habitat preferences ..

Typically, wild pigs will seek out the heaviest cover near water they can find where they are not harassed, then range out from there to feed.

The habitats vary greatly across the range of the feral hog in the United States and even in Texas—from fairly arid regions in south Texas and the trans-Pecos of west Texas all the way to the heavily forested pineywoods and wetlands in eastern Texas. They must have sufficient food, water, cover and living space. If one or more of these requirements are not met, they can be extremely mobile and move to new areas that meet all of their habitat needs.

the severity of the Wild Hog, Feral Pig and Russian Boar Pig problem

At one time, the wild pig issue was strictly considered to be an agricultural and rural issue in Texas. However, over the last decade, wild pigs have increasingly impacted urban/suburban areas of the state, and nation including all the major cities, by damaging greenspaces (i.e., lawns, parks, sports fields) and by increases in vehicular collisions causing damage to vehicles and in some cases humans. More urban Texans and others nationwide e now aware of the issues relative to wild pigs - even in Washington D.C. they're beginning to understand the severity of the problem.

At an Invasive Species Conference held in Washington D.C in 2010, several presentations were made regarding wild pigs and their impacts.

So, efforts are being made to spotlight the issue in not only Texas but also in the other 46 or so states they now inhabit.

professional Wild Hog, Feral Pig and Wild Boar eradication companies

We have no way to track these companies.

BigDaddy says the best way to find individuals and companies that offer Wild Hog, Feral Pig and Wild Boar eradication and control services in your state is to do some internet searches.

Those that trap pigs usually retain the right to them market them to a buying station for processing or sell males (boars and barrows) to hunting preserves. Several helicopter services offering aerial hunting for wild pigs are also operating in Texas.

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