“wound channel”

Dangerous game varies in species, size, and tenacity, but regardless of whether it’s a grizzly in a willow thicket, a Cape buffalo in the jesse bush, or an elephant at a distance you measure in feet instead of yards, the requirement may be different. Here are five options worth considering.

Crossbow bolts are lighter and shorter than arrows used in vertical bows, plus they receive a more abrupt delivery of force and fly at higher speeds. All these factors affect arrow behavior in flight, especially with broadheads. Many companies now offer heads tuned for use with crossbows to optimize performance—both in the air and in game.

Armed with tooth and claw, with an attitude to match when needed, bear hunting demands a well-placed shot, and a sturdily designed bullet of suitable caliber.

Pair today’s newest, high-performance, turkey-specific ammunition with “premium,” aftermarket choke tubes and the 20 gauge now compares favorably with the mighty 12 gauge for tom-stopping performance.

After decades of creating turkey loads designed to deliver the goods at several dozen paces, this spring Federal Premium offers a line of ammo for when things get up close and personal.

Whether getting started or renewing your vows, it’s time to get back to the handgun hunting basics.