Members' Best 2017

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The results are in, and big game ranging from bears and boars to bucks, bulls and rams is what American Hunter readers pursued most in the past year. But while big game is the big theme, know that some unique birds landed within our pages, too. Regardless of the species, though, this says a lot about you, the American hunter, and your dedication to our favorite pastime.

This year, entries came in from coast to coast. More than half the states in the nation are represented in print this year—it’s clear everyone sought to ensure their neck of the woods was included. And sprinkled among these pages is game from across the globe, too. Clearly, all of you are excited to show off your success. Rest assured, we’re just as eager to see it.

These photos are a testament to the American hunter, to whatever he or she may pursue, wherever that may occur. We all are more than just observers of nature. We participate. We live it. American Hunter is proud to present the culmination of the passion, patience and pride we all share in the glorious pursuit of our favorite game.

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Long Beard TSS Beauty 2
Long Beard TSS Beauty 2

Turkey Loads 101

Seemingly simple, selecting the proper turkey load is anything but a grab-and-go proposition nowadays. Instead, it requires consideration of key load characteristics, purpose and value, all of which are covered in this article.

New for 2026: Kings Camo XKG Summit Series Packs

Kings Camo has launched its all-new XKG Summit Series Packs. Engineered for versatility, comfort and load-hauling capability, this pack systems offer modular performance suitable for a wide range of adventures, from streamlined day hunts to extended backcountry trips.

New for 2026: Real Avid Ratchet Rest Adjustable Height Shooting Bags

Real Avid has announced the Ratchet Rest—Adjustable Height Shooting Bags designed to give shooters exact elevation control, faster target alignment and repeatable shooting performance.

MDF Invested $48.3 Million for Conservation in 2025

The Mule Deer Foundation (MDF) mobilized a total of $48.3 million for mule deer and black-tailed deer in 2025, its second-best year on record. Across 153 projects in 17 states, MDF helped restore more than 537,000 acres of critical wildlife habitat, benefitted 129 deer herds and eliminated or converted 149 miles of hazardous fence to restore safe movement corridors for wildlife.

Behind the Bullet: .17 Mach 2

Ever heard of the .17 Mach 2? Go behind the scenes on this hot little rimfire round with resident ammo guru Phil Massaro.

Tuo Curates Specialized Turkey Hunting Collection

For the 2026 spring season, Tuo has architected a technical system specifically curated to meet the demands of turkey hunters. While engineered for maximum versatility, the Tuo ecosystem has developed a particular following in regions where the early season isn't defined by green leaves and lilac blooms, but by the high-contrast skeletal timber and grey-scale of the early spring woods.

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