Mehall Phillips Named Zeiss Outdoor Writer of the Year

by
posted on February 11, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
karen_zeiss_f.jpg

Carl Zeiss Sports Optics, an international leader in optics and optoelectronics, named American Hunter Senior Editor Karen Mehall Phillips its 2015 Outdoor Writer of the Year at the 2016 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Jan. 18.

"Karen is one of the most progressive writers and optic users in the industry," said Joel Harris, head of global public relations for Carl Zeiss SBE, LLC. "She is full of dedication and confidence in every aspect of her work. She masterfully communicates with a deep insight, along with accurate and in-depth information that greatly benefits her readers."

An avid hunter for 27 years, Mehall Phillips has pursued big game, upland birds and turkeys in 25 states and in Canada, Africa, Europe, New Zealand and Greenland. Five years ago she took up bowhunting, and since then has taken her best whitetail buck and bull elk to date.

In 1998, after seven years promoting NRA programs as a public relations representative, Mehall Phillips joined NRA Publications. She was the founding editor in chief of two NRA Official Journals (Woman’s Outlook and America’s 1st Freedom); she served as co-host of “American Hunter Television”; currently, she serves as Senior Editor of American Hunter. As an NRA Endowment member, Mehall Phillips actively promotes the involvement of women and youth in the outdoors.

Since 2003, 13 writers have been named Carl Zeiss Outdoor Writer of the Year. Previous winners include NRA Publications Editorial Director John Zent and AH Field Editor Ron Spomer.

Latest

W H2026 06 Hardware W3814 TAH 2879Lead
W H2026 06 Hardware W3814 TAH 2879Lead

Hardware Review: Hornady 338 ARC

Looking for a cartridge that's easy to suppress, but still hits hard? Check out the 338 ARC, from Hornady. Jeff Johnston gives a thorough review of the cartridge here.

New for 2026: Steelhead Outdoors Stackable Vertical Door Handgun Locker

Steelhead Outdoors engineered a stackable Vertical Door Handgun Locker similar to storage systems used by law-enforcement agencies.

Clemson University Conservation Program Reaches Endowment Goal

The Boone and Crockett Club recently announced the wildlife conservation program at Clemson University has reached its $5 million endowment goal. Thanks to more than a decade of fundraising and support led by club member Johnny Evans—and other key contributors—the studies at the school focusing on sound, scientific wildlife conservation will continue into the future.

Know How: First Guns for Junior Shooters

Curious what gun to start out a junior shooter on? Bryce Towsley is a man with experience. Read on for some tips on what to get the young hunter in your life.

New for 2026: Kent Cartridge Southern Reserve Dove

Kent Cartridge introduces Southern Reserve Dove, a purpose-built load designed for fast shooting and performance in the dove fields.

#SundayGunday: Springfield Armory SA-35 4"

Springfield's SA-35 4” maintains the “wood and steel” vibes of yesteryear, with a blued finish on the gun’s carbon steel, and checkered walnut grips. Curious about this updated version of a true classic? Check out this exclusive edition of #SundayGunday.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.