“hunting shot”

On a first focal plane riflescope, the reticle grows and shrinks as magnification is adjusted, allowing a hunter to use a reticle with holdover marks. This is not the case on a second focal plane scope. Which is best for your hunting rig?

There are tougher big game animals out there. But bears are bears, and a poorly-hit bear that escapes into thick cover and must be tracked can be bad news.

Want to keep the thrill of the hunt going? Hunt with your feet, not feet-per-second.

Leupold’s VX-3HD riflescopes are lightweight, rugged and well balanced, and included in the line may be the best value for a hunter looking to cover all the bases: the 4.5-14x40mm. With its 30mm main tube, this scope offers a wider range of elevation adjustment than its 1-inch counterparts, as well as better light transmission.

Is the new 6.8 Western as good as it sounds? Here’s a closer look at its accuracy, velocity, aerodynamics and maximum lethal range compared to four popular, proven cartridges.

Every hunter questions her limits when tackling the backcountry. But when you’re pursuing that trophy of a lifetime, there comes a time when you must believe in yourself and handle what comes your way—because you trained for it.

A backpack hunt in northwestern Namibia affords the author and his party an up-close-and-personal view of life in the bush.