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This week, we're taking a look at the Traditions NitroFire muzzleloader. A revolutionary design, the NitroFire is built around the Federal FireStick ignition system. This self-contained powder charge allows hunters to simply load the projectile down the barrelbefore breakingopenthe gunto seat the powder charge from the breech. No more concerns over inconsistent measurements or wet powder. Should the day not end in a shot, the charge canbe removed from the breech by hand to make the gun safe. For more information on this innovative new muzzleloader, check out thevideoembedded above, hosted by Executive Editor Jon Draper, and Digital Associate Editor David Herman. MSRP: $549-699; traditionsfirearms.com.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service published “Rooted in Purpose 2026” on Nov. 6, a review that identifies changes in the policies, organization and spending that can improve the National Wildlife Refuge System’s ability to better fulfill its mission and serve the public—including hunters. The 20-page document [PDF] was quickly lauded by conservation organizations.
Five elusive Coues bucks in three days? Odds for that are low in the Southwest habitat the diminutive deer call home. But that never stopped a family from trying.
What defines a trophy? It’s a question every hunter asks and answers throughout his or her career. In the beginning it may be any deer or any buck; the first wallhanger; the first head of Western game; a kid’s first deer; a limit of … whatever. Curious about an answer? Read on.