Members' Best 2016

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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

LEDE LCO Pro F2
LEDE LCO Pro F2

New for 2026: Leupold LCO Pro F2 Red-Dot

Leupold & Stevens, Inc. has launched its LCO Pro F2 red-dot sight, combining optical clarity, reliability and purpose-built features in a full-sized red dot.

Member's Best 2026

I am heartened by this year’s entries. In addition to fabulous photographs, almost all of you delivered exceptional narratives of your hunts. We used your very words wherever possible because it’s an honor to see you all rise to such an occasion as sharing a special moment with your fellow hunters. You now know a little bit about what drives an outdoor writer. —J. Scott Olmsted, Editor in Chief

New for 2026: Vortex Crossfire II

Available with either a red or green dot, the Vortex Crossfire II Red Dot lineup brings added function to the Crossfire series.

USFWS Proposes New Grizzly Bear Management Rule

On July 17 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) published a proposed rulemaking change on the Federal Register that, if approved, would allow western states to better manage their grizzly bear population. Despite their burgeoning population the big bruins remain on the “endangered” list under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), a fact that has paralyzed regional conservation efforts, impacted other wildlife populations and dramatically increased human/bear conflicts.

Gear Roundup: Summer Shooting Fun

Looking to up your marksmanship skills this summer, or just plink around for fun? Check out this roundup of gear tailor-made for summer shooting fun.

New for 2026: ALPS Mountaineering Micro Air Pump

ALPS Mountaineering has released its Micro Air portable air pump. Compact and convenient, this pump packs a punch of inflation and is small enough to be hooked to a keychain without sticking out. This air pump delivers plenty of power without worrying about a battery going dead because it is connected to an external power bank.

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