Members' Best 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. **
mb_2016_f.jpg

Your photos provide not simply a review of your accomplishments and endeavors over the past year, but a revealing snapshot of a nation full of dedicated American Hunters. Trends emerge, be it in the game pursued or the hunters pursuing it, and the staff here welcomes both the insight and the stories that come with your images.

We received more than 200 entries this year, showcasing squirrels to sable, taken in the back 40 to the backcountry, bagged by youngsters to veterans of the field. The trend that unfolded is not one of monster whitetails or female hunters, though both categories continued to grow. Judging by last season’s photos, it seems readers hunted a larger variety of game than we’ve ever seen in a Members’ Best collection. That means you’re winning.

Despite efforts by those who don’t agree with your pursuits—the despicable social-network slams laid upon hunters undeserving of such hatred, blatant lies and uninformed misconceptions surrounding your contributions as hunters to the most successful wildlife conservation programs the world has ever seen—you are still finding time to travel, to spend with loved ones, to experience adventure and peace in the wild. You are unwavering in your passion, and you are hunting more now than ever. That’s a trend well worth celebrating.

Latest

Geese On The Ground
Geese On The Ground

AH Hunts: Late Season Alberta Geese Pt. 2

With some birds on the ground, Jon and Brad take a second to discuss the size of late-season Alberta honkers, before diving into the guns that brought them down. Check out part 2 of Senior Executive Editor Jon Draper and American Hunter contributor Brad Fenson's late-season Alberta honker hunt here.

Hardware Review: Hornady Backcountry Defense

A casual hike, a quick trip to grab firewood or a morning spent chasing trout all carry the potential of encountering a furry threat that might want to remind you that you are no longer at the top of the hierarchy.

Ruger Announces American Rifle Generation II Scout Models

Ruger ups the ante in 2026, delivering a newly crafted Scout rifle under its increasingly popular American Gen II line.

New for 2026: Hawke Optics Vantage IR 1-4x20mm in Mossy Oak Bottomland

Purpose-built to give turkey hunters fast target acquisition, precise shot placement and a camo pattern that blends seamlessly into the Spring woods, Hawke's latest LVPO is designed to impress.

Interior Department Increases Hunting Opportunities on Public Lands

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum has issued a secretarial order aimed at greatly expanding hunting and fishing on publicly managed lands.

Hunting with the Jet Set

A three-day Montana set for waterfowl proves to the author that Benelli’s Advanced Impact barrel technology is a game changer.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.