Cross Over

by
posted on September 10, 2015
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In Wisconsin, it was 105. Oklahoma, 91. Pennsylvania, 39. These were the number of days during the 2014 season that crossbow hunters could take to the woods for whitetails while rifle hunters had to sit at home.

Based on comparing statewide archery and firearm seasons, these numbers could be the ticket to your filling more tags. Almost 30 states now permit the use of crossbows during the entire, or at least some part of, archery season (not counting those states that allow crossbows for physically challenged or senior hunters). More are considering crossbows for future seasons. Instead of waiting to unlimber your Remington or Ruger, perhaps it’s time you spent the fall stretching a string.

Today’s hunter-friendly crossbows are priced so attractively that you almost can’t afford to miss out. Many fully outfitted crossbows cost less than a bare rifle, and essentially they buy you more time in the woods. Here are six that will up your odds this season. All you need to add are broadheads—most come with field points for practice—and more vacation days to your schedule.

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LEDEVX 4HD 3 12X50 CDS ZL2 SF 185454 A 1
LEDEVX 4HD 3 12X50 CDS ZL2 SF 185454 A 1

New for 2026: Leupold VX-4HD

When a hunt can shift from tight timber at first light to a long look across open country by midmorning, a scope must do more than just magnify. The Leupold VX-4HD is built for exactly that kind of versatility, blending rugged construction, smart engineering and optical performance into a scope that works wherever the hunt takes you.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Chest Pack Pro

The Blocker Outdoors Finisher Chest Pack Pro is the kind of gear that takes the basic tenets of turkey hunting into consideration, while attempting to minimize the burden of a cumbersome full-size vest. This makes it a a straightforward alternative to a full-size turkey vest for run-and-gun hunters who want to balance loadout with freedom of movement.

The Value of Post Season Scouting in the Snow

Although for most of the country deer season is over, there are some important aspects of deer hunting to be understood, particularly when it snows during the winter months. In my part of the country, we don’t often get a good blanket of snow until the deer season closes. However, when it does snow, I make a point to get outdoors and visit each of my hunting areas to learn when the learning is best.

Tuo Introduces New Camouflage Pattern: Ryse

Tuo launched its proprietary Verse camo pattern in 2024. While the supplemental light tans and sharp lines render effectiveness in wooded environments as well, Tuo wanted to offer a second exclusive pattern for whitetail hunters. It has done so with Ryse.

New for 2026: SIG Sauer Zulu10 HDX Binoculars

SIG Sauer’s new Zulu10 HDX binoculars are engineered for hunters and shooters who prioritize optical performance and mechanical precision as much as durability.

Renewed Hunting and Fishing Focus on Interior Department-Managed Property

On Jan. 7 U.S. Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum issued an order stating, “…public and federally managed lands should be open to hunting and fishing unless a specific, documented, and legally supported exception applies.”

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