The Editors

2008 Deer of the Year

outdoorlife-editor — Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:00:00 -0500

Want to further brag about your trophy buck? Put it up against those other Outdoor Life Readers.

Here's how to submit your entry:

By Mail

1. Mail a color photograph (not a laser printout) of you and your memorable buck.

2. Include a brief story of the hunt and any notable measurements of the animal and its rack.

3. Be sure to include your Name, Address and Phone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following address:

Outdoor Life, Deer of the Year
2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016

By E-Mail

1. Include a brief story of your hunt and any notable measurements of the animal and
its rack in an email.

2. Attach a color photograph of you and your memorable buck to the story.

3. Be sure to include your Name, Address and Phone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following E-Mail address:

OLdoycontest@bonniercorp.com

Criteria considered when selecting submissions to publish include:

Quality and tastefulness of the photograph
Size of the buck and its antlers
Uniqueness of the story
First-time successes

Deadline:

If you are submitting via Mail:

Mailed Entries must be postmarked by May 15, 2008

If you are submitting via E-Mail:

E-Mail submission on or before May 15, 2008 11:59 PM EST will only be considered

PLEASE NOTE:
All entries cannot be acknowledged and submitted photos cannot be returned.

SHOT SHOW 2004

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

Greetings from Las Vegas! We're back at this year's SHOT Show to bring you all the latest in gear and new products.

We'll be reporting to you each day of the show from February 12-15.

We'll be walking the hundreds of rows in search of the latest gear a nd other products that we know will help improve your hunting experience. Things such as treestands, the latest in decoys, clothing, optics--you name it.

Check back daily throughout the weekend. Outdoor Life Online will be following Editor Todd Smith as he travels the SHOT Show floor inspecting rifles, boots, and scopes.

We know you wish you could be here so we'll do our best to bring you all the great things the SHOT Show has to offer.

DAY FOUR - February 15, 2004

SHOT Show 2004: Day 4 Gear Gallery

More gear from the SHOT Show on Day 4.

DAY THREE - February 14, 2004

Fighting in Your Backyard

Sportsmen leverage their power.

Return of the Vanguard

The Weatherby Vanguard is more popular than ever.

New Product Reports

Items that have grabbed the attention of the staff of SHOT Daily and may do the same to consumers.

SHOT Show 2004: Day 3 Gear Gallery

The latest and greatest from the third day of the SHOT Show.

DAY TWO - February 13, 2004

Thousands of Extras, Part 2

It's said that accessories make the man; they also make or break your bottom line.

Great Glass 2004

Optics manufacturers focus on new trends and affordability.

The State Of Camo

Camo has come a long way, and you should see where it's headed!

Down the Boot Aisles

From camp shoes to heavy-duty waterproof boots, footwear is making great strides.

SHOT Show 2004: Day 2 Gear Gallery

The latest and greatest from the second day of the SHOT Show.

DAY ONE - February 12, 2004

Products: Thousands of Extras, Part 1

It's said that accessories make the man; they also make or break your bottom line.

Air Guns 2004

What's new in today's adult air-gun market.

Handguns 2004

This year, most manufacturers are content to tweak existing models.

Rifles 2004

Rifle makers have been very busy in the off-season. Here's a look at what they've been up to.

Shotguns 2004

No showstoppers, but a diverse mix will appeal to a broad range of shooters.

SHOT Show 2004: Day 1 Gear Gallery

Take a loook at the latest gear our editors found on the first day of the SHOT Show in Las Vegas

RIFLES

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

This year, despite some chilly days at the test range, we recorded some of the smallest groups ever and also the most consistently good accuracy. This, of course, is due to good rifles, good scopes, good shooting and, especially, good ammunition. The ammunition by Speer, Remington and Winchester was better than good and in some calibers matched even expertly loaded handloads. Hornady's .17 Magnum Rimfire ammo unquestionably contributed to the better-than-expected accuracy of the two rifles we tested in this soon-to-be-popular new cartridge.

As always, our tests proved that price does not necessarily guarantee great shootability. In fact, some of our best performers this year were standard factory guns from here and abroad that demonstrated that you don't need to spend a million bucks to own a nice-shooting rifle.

CZ-527 Varmint

($753; 800-955-4486)

Caliber tested: .223 Rem.

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 13.5 oz.

Barrel length: 241/8 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel and action

Stock: Synthetic

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 6 oz.

Intended purpose: Varmint hunting

Combine legendary Czech gunmaking with American accuracy know-how and you're bound to have a hot-performing combination. So it is with this sweet little rifle that utilizes an
H-S Precision stock to squeeze the
accuracy potential out of a stiff CZ barrel and action. As test team member John Taranto proved when he fired a five-shot group with our .223 Remington test sample that measured a tiny .229 inches. (Yes, Alice, that's at 100 yards with Winchester factory ammo.) And it wasn't a fluke, because John's biggest group with that rifle measured .673 inches. Newly available Talley scope rings solved the scope-mounting problems that have formerly plagued the CZ, so now there's not much more one could wish for in an off-the-shelf, ready-to-go varmint rifle unless it would be for CZ to get rid of that outdated cuckoo clock set trigger and replace it with a simple single-stage design.

Extra Comments

1) "Steel trigger guard is a nice touch."

2) "I dislike the magazine & trigger systems."

3) "Best varmint rifle we tested."

4) "Extremely tight group."

5) "If I were buying a varmint rifle I'd consider this rifle."

6) "A smooth, accurate rifle."

Kimber 84 Longmaster

($1,122; 888-243-4522)

Caliber tested: .22/250 Rem.

Weight as delivered: 10 lb., 12 oz.

Barrel length: 26 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel; case-hardened/
colored receiver

Stock: Wood laminate

Sights: None

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 1 oz.

Intended purpose: Varmint hunting

With a fluted stainless-steel barrel that seems to overburden the action and a slab-sided stock shape that apparently was inspired by a canoe paddle, it's hard to reconcile this latest Kimber varmint rifle with its elegantly styled and built sporters of the past. (They were our Editor's Choice in new
rifles for the past two years.) But close your eyes and feel the crisp trigger pull (our sample
adjusted down to two pounds safely) and you'll recognize solid quality. We had no trouble getting slightly sub-MOA groups with our .22/250 sample, but frankly we expected somewhat better performance considering the rifle's weight, pillar-bedded stock and beautiful trigger.

Extra Comments

1) "Comfortable rifle that fit me well."

2) "Too big & bulky even for a varmint rifle."

3) "Sort of a neither fish nor fowl rifle."

4) "Beautiful trigger."

Marlin 1894 Cowboy

Competition

($965; 203-239-5621)

Caliber tested: .38 Special

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 8.5 oz.

Barrel length: 20 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel; case-hardened/
colored receiver

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Open

Trigg pull: 3 lb.

Intended purpose: Cowboy action shooting

With a price tag barely on the safe side of a thousand bucks, this new lever
rifle is the priciest item in the 2002 Marlin catalog. It is also the most beautiful. With its octagonal barrel, rich case-hardened hues on the receiver and lever and good walnut, there's not much more to wish for with this American Beauty except perhaps an earlier-style steel buttplate and the
absence of the useless push-button safety. One might also wish for it
in .44/40 or .45 Long Colt calibers,
either of which would please Cowboy action shooters more than its .38 Special chambering.

Since the rifle has no screw holes for scope mounting, we did our iron-sight shooting at 50 yards, and it was delightful to see the tidy little groups form. This rifle is about shooting for fun, pure and simple, and the joys of rediscovering what a lever-action rifle is all about. If the tax deadline were not drawing near at this writing and the crosshairs of the IRS were not centered on my checkbook, I'd give serious thought to buying this prettiest of the Marlins.

Extra Comments

1) "A beauty."

2) "My favorite 'fun gun' tested."

3) "Steel buttplate would be nice."

4) "Well done Marlin, a personal favorite."

Marlin 17VOL GREAT BUY

($263; 203-239-5621)

Caliber tested: .17 HMR

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 9 oz.

Barrel length: 22 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel and receiver

Stock: Hardwood

Sights: Grooved for rings

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 4 oz.

Intended purpose: Light varmint hunting/plinking
Over the coming months there will be a flurry of rifles chambered for the new .17 HMR cartridge, but I doubt if many will be less expensive-or more accurate-than this one. There's nothing fancy about this rifle, let there be no doubt. The creepy trigger requires concentrated effort to avoid wild shots (our test team sketched out a simple modification that would make the Marlin trigger mechanism adjustable), but we were determined to give the test sample our best shot, so to speak, by mounting a high-quality, high-powered scope on it. (Inexpensive rifles are often victimized by sub-par scopes that don't allow shooters to wring out their maximum accuracy potential.) We were rewarded by some 100-yard groups that demonstrated the .17 HMR can be a serious varmint cartridge and that the inexpensive Marlin version can put five shots inside a one-inch circle.

Extra Comments

1) "Crude but it works."

2) "Shoots better than it looks."

3) "Accuracy for price is its best saving grace."

4) "Magazine difficult to insert."

5) "Superb accuracy is this rifle's best feature."

Remington Seven Magnum

($743; 800-243-9700)

Caliber tested: 7mm UMSA

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 6 oz.

Barrel length: 221/8 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel and receiver

Stock: Wood laminate

Sights: Open

Trigger pull: 6 lb., 20 oz.

Intended purpose: Big-game hunting
There's nothing new about the Model Seven bolt-action rifle, so normally it wouldn't qualify for our gun tests. (Our one requirement is that the products we include be new and innovative.) What makes it "new," however, is the concept of combining a lightweight, carbine-size rifle (of the type usually reserved for light- to medium-power cartridges) with a magnum-class caliber. Thus the Model Seven in Remington's new 7mm Short-Action Ultra Mag. (SAUM) is an attention-getter.

I'd tried the combination a few months earlier, in the thin-shelled, synthetic-stock version (does Tupperware come to mind?) and was able to contain my enthusiasm. This caused scant hope for a spectacular performance from the laminated-wood-stocked sample supplied to our test team. I was wrong, and happily so, though a seven-pound rifle requires some hanging on to in a caliber that launches a 160-grain bullet at 2,960 fps. (We used the Remington load with 160-grain Nosler Partitions.) Not only was accuracy better than expected, but the rifle didn't at all seem to mind being fired with a hot barrel.

Test team member Allen Day, an experienced hand with magnum
rifles, fired two fast five-shot groups back to back that measured 1.026 inches and 1.224 inches with the
barrel too hot to touch. The biggest group of our test series was a hair over an inch and a half.

Extra Comments

1) "Sharp recoil-rough bolt."

2) "I score it high for accuracy."

3) "Fits very nicely."

4) "I like the short mag concept."

5) "Accuracy is excellent for this type rifle."

6) "Quite shootable, good balance."

7) "Fit & finish is mediocre."

Ruger 77/17 RM

($565; 520-541-8820)

Caliber tested: .17 HMR

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 4 oz.

Barrel length: 221/8 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel and receiver

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Ruger rings

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 1 oz.

Intended purpose: Light varmint hunting/ plinking

The usual description of Ruger's trim M77 bolt rifle begins with, "It would be a great little rifle if it weren't for the...." The sad exceptions are a trigger pull that feels like you're dragging an anchor over asphalt and so-so
accuracy. (Accuracy services and
replacement barrels for the 77/Rotary Magazine Series have evolved into an industry, which is surely an embarrassment for Ruger.) Even before the 77/17RM was on dealer's shelves,
independent barrel makers were hawking replacement "drop-in" barrels. But if all of Ruger's .17's are as accurate as our test sample, there will be little or no demand for replacement barrels. Groups of one inch, and slightly under, at 100 yards weren't uncommon. In fact, during one session test team member Stan Widner went to the bench with the Ruger and a box of Hornady ammo and shot a 15-shot group that measured 1.390 inches. Of these, 10 shots were under an inch and six were in an overlapping cluster. All would have done asunder a gopher at 150 yards.

Extra Comments

1) "Stock comb should be higher."

2) "Excellent action & scope mount designs."

3) "Heavy trigger is a negative factor."

4) "Great accuracy and reliability."

5) "Trigger needs to be redesigned."

6) "Bolt release is a nuisance."

7) "Excellent rifle for the money."

8) "Liked the magazine-easy to use."

Sako Finnlight

($1,239; 301-283-2191)

Caliber tested: .243 Win.

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 8.5 oz.

Barrel length: 201/2 in.

Metal finishppily so, though a seven-pound rifle requires some hanging on to in a caliber that launches a 160-grain bullet at 2,960 fps. (We used the Remington load with 160-grain Nosler Partitions.) Not only was accuracy better than expected, but the rifle didn't at all seem to mind being fired with a hot barrel.

Test team member Allen Day, an experienced hand with magnum
rifles, fired two fast five-shot groups back to back that measured 1.026 inches and 1.224 inches with the
barrel too hot to touch. The biggest group of our test series was a hair over an inch and a half.

Extra Comments

1) "Sharp recoil-rough bolt."

2) "I score it high for accuracy."

3) "Fits very nicely."

4) "I like the short mag concept."

5) "Accuracy is excellent for this type rifle."

6) "Quite shootable, good balance."

7) "Fit & finish is mediocre."

Ruger 77/17 RM

($565; 520-541-8820)

Caliber tested: .17 HMR

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 4 oz.

Barrel length: 221/8 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel and receiver

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Ruger rings

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 1 oz.

Intended purpose: Light varmint hunting/ plinking

($1,239; 301-283-2191)

Caliber tested: .243 Win.

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 8.5 oz.

Barrel length: 201/2 in.

Metal finish

SHOTGUNS

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

SHOTGUNS

Some readers have criticized our gun tests in the past saying we only report on fancy, high-priced firearms. For the record, our primary criteria for testing guns (or any other products) has always been that firearms must be new and
innovative. That said, we test the field
of guns that fit that criteria in any given year. Some years manufacturers focus on more expensive models, some years they don't. We simply tell it like we see
it, based on what you'll soon be seeing at your local gun shop.

This year, some folks will look at our field of shotguns and say "too pricey." But think about it. Good shotguns don't come cheap-especially quality side-
by-sides and over/unders, which is where the majority of the new guns introduced this year fall. Most
of these models require additional hand fitting, so labor costs go up. And the additional parts required to make a nice double of either variety are costly. Add to this higher quality wood and more attention to engraving and aesthetics, and these guns are going to cost more.

Happily, the trend in shotguns seems to be toward more traditional designs, and we're glad to see the influence of European craftsmanship creeping into guns from major American makers that will be distributed here. In short, the field of quality shotguns has taken a great stride forward, and that's something all of us can get excited about.

Kimber Augusta

($4,350; 888-243-4522)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered: 8 lb.

Barrel length: 30 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrel/receiver

Stock: European walnut

Sights: Orange fluorescent/white

Trigger pull: Top, 4 lb.; bottom, 4 lb. 7 oz.

Intended purpose: Sporting clays

A new over/under bearing the Kimber logo represents quite a stretch for a gunmaker that made a reputation for itself with classy rifles and, more
recently, a popular line of handguns. Built by Investarm, one of the "new age" Italian gunmakers that combine sophisticated machining techniques with traditional philosophies, the Kimber is beautifully fitted, richly sculpted and detailed with
an elegantly slender profile made possible by a bifurcated locking system (locking lugs on the sides rather than under the barrel). The high-grade wood, fine checkering and deep, elegant blue with tasteful gold border exude class and expense. It is this latter, at $4,350 a pop, that will test the loyalty of Kimber devotees.

Extra Comments

1) "Great feel."

2) "Love the trigger adjustment."

3) "Wants to stop too short on opening."

4) "Ejector was unpredictable."

5) "Nice checkering."

6) "A lovely shotgun but not necessarily a good value."

Remington 332OL GREAT BUY

($1,532; 800-243-9700)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 7.5 oz.

Barrel length: 275/8 in.

Metal finish: Blue

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead

Trigger pull: 4.5 lb.

Intended purpose: All-purpose field hunting
Let's see now, is this Remington's third or fourth offering of an over/
under in the past decade? One tends to lose count, especially when some of the past efforts achieved instant forgettableness. This is a sad commentary on a company whose Model 32 was one of the all-time great O/U's (the pricey Krieghoff 32 is virtually
a screw-by-screw copy) and whose M-3200 is still eagerly sought by skeet and trap shooters.

The new 332 looks, feels and seems to perform somewhat better than its immediate predecessors, which is perhaps damning with faint praise. And Remington is playing its nostalgia card by borrowing from the ancestral M-32 in both name and an exact
reproduction of the simple but well-remembered pointing dog impressed on the receiver. Our shooting tests were handicapped by the only test sample available, which apparent had had its stock shortened an inch or so to accommodate a smaller-statured shooter. Otherwise, I would rank it as a solid, American-made shotgun with some nice features.

Extra Comments

1) "Too much felt recoil. Stock needs to be redesigned."

2) "Pistol grip is way too long."

3) Remington's best O/U since M-3200."

4) "Compares favorably to early M-32, especially for the price."

Traditions Elite Field III

($2,099; www.faustistefanoarms.com)

Gauge tested: .410

Weight as delivered: 6 lb., 14.5 oz.

Barrel length: 26 in.

Metal finish: Blue barrels

Stock: European walnut

Sights: Front bead only

Trigger pull weight: Right, 7 lb., 1 oz.;

left, 7 lb., 7 oz.

Intended purpose: Upland hunting

A side-by-side shotgun always attracts attention, especially when it's a cute .410-gauge that just begs you to pick it up and break a few targets. Made in Italy by the firm of Fausti, the trim little number submitted for our tests is classically styled with
English (straight) grip and splinter forend, and it looks great at arm's length. On closer inspection, though, the engraving pattern, blotchy inlays and indifferent fit and finishing are disappointing, as is the all-too-tight opening and closing of the action, which only an optimist will expect to get easier with use.

That said, the gun feels good in the hand and mounts sweetly, which
accounted for better performance on the skeet field than we had any right to expect considering its twin, full-choked barrels and seven-pound-plus trigger pulls. (When a shotgun's trigger pull is greater than the gun's total weight, you have a weighty problem.)

Extra Comments

1) "A good hitting shotgun & reliable."

2) "Priced too high for its quality."

3) "Crudely finished & stiff operation."

4) "A little rough for price."

5) "Very difficult to close."

Weatherby Athena

($1,549; 800-227-2016)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 2 oz.

Barrel length: 26 in.

Metal finish: Blue

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 7 oz.

Intended purpose: General field

One of the pitfalls of our new gun tests is that in order to make our spring deadline we sometimes have to test pre-production samples. These may be one-of-a-kind samples that lack the refinements in mechanism and finish that will appear in production models. And so it was with both of the new Weatherby shotguns. But with this caveat duly noted, we have to call 'em the way we see 'em.

The Athena side-by-side is a typically Spanish mid-to-upper-class shotgun in that it struggles mightily to imitate a British best-grade sidelock (no fault in that) but falls way short on the details in order to keep production costs at a minimum (no blame there either). Fair-to-nice engraving and checkering on our sample, augmented by nicely contrasting oil-finished walnut, were pleasing, as was the cleanly sculpted, English-style stock.

But in disappointing contrast to these features were rough chambers, too-obvious reminders of rough hand filing and coarse wood-to-metal fit, not to mention a malfunctioning single trigger. Hopefully, these faults will not be present on production guns that reach dealers' racks. If they are, this import will be an unworthy bearer of the Weatherby name and nowhere in the class of its earlier smoothbores. Faults corrected, it will be a darn good deal for those hankering for a classy-looking sidelock double at an affordable price.

Extra Comments

1) "Very temperamental, only fired when it wanted to."

2) "Nice looking shotgun."

3) "Some difficulty opening & closing."

4) "Very hittable when it worked."

5) "Will be a good value when bugs are worked out."

6) "Fit & finish need improving."

Weatherby SASOL GREAT BUY

($799; 800-227-2016)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 8 oz.

Barrel length: 26 in.

Metal finish: Blue

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead front

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 7 oz.

Intended purpose: Upland/field

The Weatherby SAS (Semi Automatic Shotgun) that we tested suffered some of the same pre-production faults outlined for the Weatherby Athena, principally a grip configuration designed by King Kong himself or someone with a fist of equal size. We're told a correction is already in the works, which should greatly improve the feel of this gun.

On the plus side, this Italian-made, gas-operated self-feeder has tapered shims that can be fitted between the buttstock and receiver to add cast-off or cast-on (for the usually forgotten left-handed shooter). The field-grade model we tested proved highly reliable throughout our test, but there were questions about what seemed to be
excessive kick for a gas-operated gun firing low-recoil ammo.

Extra Comments

1) "Why would a consumer buy this shotgun, there are cheaper, well-established autoloaders available."

2) "Good value."

3) "Lives up to Weatherby image."

4) "Nicely finished & reliable."

5) "Not too pretty but great all-around shotgun."

6) "Very easy to use."

Browning
Citori 525 EDITOR'S CHOICE

($2,493; 801-876-2711)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered:
7 lb., 15.5 oz.

Barrel length: 28 in., plus 3/4-in. tube extension

Metal finish: Blue barrels

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead

Trigger pull: Top, 4 lb., 9 oz.; bottom, 4 lb., 11 oz.

Intended purpose:

Sporting clays
A more appropriate name for Browning's Citori O/U could well be Pygmalion: Every season she reappears in a new image. This latest is perhaps the most radical costume change yet and may not appeal to traditionalists who prefer classic smoothbore styling. Competitive-minded shotgunners, however, will recognize the curved-forward Etchen-style grip configuration and appreciate its enhanced feel
of control. (The Etchens demonstrated this by shooting one-handed.) And if you look closer you'll spot even more refinements, such as the tapered rib, the ventilation ports between the barrels and the target-contoured trigger.

a good value when bugs are worked out."

6) "Fit & finish need improving."

Weatherby SASOL GREAT BUY

($799; 800-227-2016)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered: 7 lb., 8 oz.

Barrel length: 26 in.

Metal finish: Blue

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead front

Trigger pull: 4 lb., 7 oz.

Intended purpose: Upland/field

Browning
Citori 525 EDITOR'S CHOICE

($2,493; 801-876-2711)

Gauge tested: 12-gauge

Weight as delivered:
7 lb., 15.5 oz.

Barrel length: 28 in., plus 3/4-in. tube extension

Metal finish: Blue barrels

Stock: Walnut

Sights: Bead

Trigger pull: Top, 4 lb., 9 oz.; bottom, 4 lb., 11 oz.

Intended purpose:

SHOT Show 2002

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

See SHOT Show Day 2 Gear

See SHOT Show Day 1 Gear

The New Canon 8x25 IS Binoculars

These new binoculars from Canon are the smallest you can buy with the Image Stabilization feature. Our editors were impressed with the power packed into this extremely compact optic package. The ergonomic shape makes them easier to hold and the high quality glass gives an extremely sharp image.

For more information visit www.usa.canon.com

Dura-Mag 1200 Waders from Hodgman

Hodgman has created the ultimate duck hunting wader in its new Dura-Mag 1200 model. Said to be tougher and warmer than other waders on the market, the Dura-Mag 1200's will help you keep warm in even the harshest of conditions.

Other features of the waders include call pockets, heat pac compartments, a built-in belt and outside waist hand pockets. For more information visit www.hodgman.com.

Dorcy Coolblue Waterproof Flashlight

Good things really do come in small packages. This flashlight from Dorcy is small enough to fit in your jacket pocket, but packs in 200 hours of run time. The new technology here is in the focused solid state LED bulb. The light will shine in a solid ring for up to 30 feet away.

For more information, call 800-837-8558.

Masterbuilt Grand Slam Turkey Fryer

The SHOT Show has a lot more to offer than just firearms and camoflage. We came across this item while browsing the floor and were amazed at the speed of the cooking process. The Masterbuilt Grand Slam can cook a ten pound turkey in 35 minutes!

For more information on the Masterbuilt Grand Slam Turkey Fryer, click here.

The Para Carry

This handgun is the smallest DAO .45 we've come across. The compact magazine on the Para Carry holds six-rounds and the LDA trigger system makes the gun one of the safest compact autoloaders you can buy.

For more information on the Para Carry visit www.ltms.com

Quiet Wear Roomy Camo Fleece Mask

This small company based out of Milwaukee has developed a number of innovative face masks. The Camo Fleece Mask features an adjustable toggle tie in the back so that you can create a perfect fit. It's made from a very soft fleece which will protect your nose and cheeks from the chafing that sometimes occurs with other materials like wool.

For more information visit www.reliableofmilwaukee.com

Canon 8x25 IS Binoculars

Dura-Mag 1200 Waders

Dorcy Coolblue Waterproof Flashlight

Masterbuilt Grand Slam Turkey Fryer

The Para Carry

Camo Fleece Mask

Day Two: SHOT Show 2002

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

Day Two SHOT Show 2002

Outdoor Life Editor Todd Smith spends his time at the SHOT Show walking the floor inspecting products and talking to retailers and manufacturers. We spent the day following Editor-In-Chief Todd Smith as he looked at the latest in clothing, optics, firearms, ammunition and more. Check out the products Todd is most impressed with.

The STS 65 from Swarovski

(photo above right)

After extensive research and testing, Swarovski Optik is introducing a "New Class" of lightweight, spotting scopes for serious outdoorsmen and women. Made in Austria, the smaller size, weight and price of the new ATS 65/ATS 65 HD (angled eyepiece) and STS 65 HD (straight eyepiece) will please those who are looking for a spotting scope in the 60 MM range, but are not willing to compromise on performance. This is ideal for use when frequently changing viewing location. It is extremely easy to handle. Despite its size the instrument delivers a huge performance offering all-round, color-fidelty with strong high contrast images.

Schrade's i-QUIP

"This is the most innovative thing I've seen at the show thus far," said Todd Smith.

The new Schrade i-QUIP..."Intelligent Equip,ent" is perfect for all outdoor activities including hiking, backpacking, orienteering, camping and more.

The i-QUIP offers the ultimate in convience and is smart enough to "get you there faster, safer and easier." The Scrade i-QUIP computer module is outfitted with today's finest high tech mobile electronics. The implememt pod houses 8 stainless steel outdoor problem solvers. A Solas certified survival whistle, signal mirror and flashlight, make the i-QUIP an outdoor survival specialist.

Schrade's i-Quip

Overlay Coat from Beretta

Smith & Wesson Model 410

Mouth Yelper & Grunt Call

Ruger Gold Label Side-by-Side

.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire Cartridges

The i-QUIP contains a altimeter, barometer,
digital compass, digital clock, a screwdriver, cutting blade, scissors, saw, caplifter, can opener, and cork screw. Other features include a LED flashlight, signal mirror, survival whistle, lighter compartment and belt clip.

Let Schrade's new i-QUIP "Intelligent Equipment for the Outdoors," maximize your outdoor adventures!

Women's Upland Overlay Coat from Beretta

This 100% cotton canvas Upland Coat with a 500 D Cordura overlay on gunpatch and forearm is a great looking jacket.

It feautures a leather collar/cuff, double pockets with shell loops and a button in/out wool blend liner, throat latch. It also has a game bag, bi-swing action back, and a left chest security pocket.

Smith & Wesson Model 410

This beautiful handgun has a 4" barrel 10 + 1 rounds and .260 spurred. The trigger is .305" smooth and it has a single side external safety. There is a fixed v-notch. The material is aluminum alloy/carbon steel with a blue finish.

Mouth Yelper and Bandit Series Grunt Call

This multi-adjustaqble turkey call replicates awesome yelps, clucks, cutts and kee-kees. The Mouth Yelper (shown far right) has multiple adjustments and is operated by simply blowing through the call to create the sound. The Mouth Yelper has multiple adjustments and is operated by simply blowing through the call to creaate the sound. The mouth diaphragm latex reed creates the most realistic turkey sounds possible.

The Bandit Series Grunt Call is a unique wrist-strapped deer call that allows easy access and limited movement. With quiet 360 degree pivotal rotation the Bandit can be worn on either your left or right hand. This compact hands free design incorporates a "Can Sound Chamber" that creates realistic grunt sounds. Now you can make close-in grunts while aiming a rifle or with your bow at full draw!

New Ruger Gold Label Side-By-Side

This is a world-class shotgun at an affordable price. Ruger proudly introduces its latest engineering triumph-the Ruger Gold Label. Ruger's modern manufacturing techniques and materials combine precision and durability with aesthetic and dynamic harmony in a manner previously achievable only through months of skilled hand labor, producing an affordable world-class double shotgun. Light weight hammer-forged barrels, relieved forcing cones to lessen felt recoil and shot deformation, and a complete set of thin, steel-shot-compatible screw-in choke tubes contribute to uniform patterns, pattern flexibility, and superb handling dynamics.

.17 Hornady Magnum Rimfire (17 HMR)

With this NEW cartridge, Hornay just may have created the perfect ammo for plinking, varmint shooting, or squirrel and rabbit hunting. Forget everything you think you know about rimfire cartridges. No rimfire cartridge has ever achieved the kind of accuracy and hard-hitting velocity you'll get from the Hornady .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire.) This cartridge delivers the kind of velocity and flat trajectory that will forevfer change your expectations fo rimfier accuracy.

Day One: SHOT Show 2002

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 13:42:11 -0400

Live From Las Vegas Shot Show 2002

Greetings from Las Vegas! We're here day one at the SHOT Show bringing you all the latest in gear and new products. Every day this weekend until February 5th, we will be walking the hundreds of rows in search of the latest gear.

We'll be looking at products that we know will help improve your hunting experience. Things such as new treestands, the latest in decoys, clothing, optics--you name it and we're checking it out. There is plenty to see but we'll manage to get through it all.

Check back daily throughout the weekend. Outdoor Life Online will be following Editor Todd Smith as he travels the SHOT Show floor inspecting rifles, boots, and scopes. See what this expert has to say about Ruger's new shotgun and various other products.

We know you wish you could be here so we'll do our best to bring you all the great things the SHOT Show has to offer.

The Double X Series Multi-Vision by Ol' Man
(See photo pictured on the upper right.)

The Double X Series Multi-Vision is a unique new two-piece climbing stand. Actually it is 5 stands in one! You choose the stand to fit your immediate hunting situation. Conversion is easy! Simply insert one of the provided camp padded bars for a new and improved version of the Original Ol' Man, the Vision Gun Rest and you now have a Vision Back Rest to hunt facing the tree. Leave the front open and you have the newest addition to the Ol' Man line, the Freedom Climber.

New features include Ol' Man Spreader Arms for extra room and extra value. The new design in the patented pivoting arms results in no more squeezing of ht ehunter while hunting from smaller diameter trees.

Benchmade's Realtree Camo Model Knives

For the outdoorsman who prefers to blend in with their outdoor suroundings. They have taken their standard models and applied the RealTree Hardwoods pattern to the handle scales. The application process is much the same that is used throughout the industry for a durable lasting finish. These models are limited to ComboEdge with BT2 coated blade configuarations in each.

So if you prefer to go "unseen" in the outdoors- check out the Benchmade Hardwoods.

Sotol Tire Step Company

The Tire Step allows easy access to the engine compartment or the top of your vehicle.

This lightweight, portable, dependable product is easy to use. Choose from two designs. The OneStep, (shown) is the signature model and is available in both black steel and deluxe, light weight anodized aluminum. Both versions come with their own stylish heavy-duty carrying bags. For just a few dollars more, order either version in red, silver, or gold designer colors. For the outdoor enthusiast, the product also comes in camouflage.

The other design is called the TwoStep is designed specifically to access the engine cdompartments of large trucks and buses.

Varmint Hunting Lights from Optronics

This night hunting model costs about $79.99 and runs on a 6-volt rechargeable battery with 110-volt charger. It has a beam adjustment knob, a stock-mount switch, left-or right handed. The red flip-up varmint filter is included. The snap-on mount fits 1" scopes (30mm adaptor available) It is made of a lightweight, rugged ABS plastic. These products from Optronics are designed to withstand rugged use.

The Outdoor Life Photo Contest 2007

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:26:40 -0400

Here's your chance to see your photograph appear in the pages of Outdoor Life and on our Web site.

Send us your best photograph from the field. One winner will be chosen in each of the following categories:

Hero Shot (Hunting)
Hero Shot (Fishing)
Live Game
Camp Life
Nature/Scenic
Humor

You may enter as many categories as you wish but may enter only one photograph per category. The grand prize winner will receive $500.

WAYS TO ENTER:

By Mail

1. Send us your best photograph from the field and the category your are entering.

2. Please be sure to include your Name, Address and Phone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following address:

Outdoor Life, Outdoor Photo Contest 2007

2 Park Ave.,
New York, NY 10016

By E-Mail

1. Name the category you are entering and attach your photograph
(as a jpeg with at least 266 dpi in an email)

2. Be sure to include your Name, Address and Phone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following E-Mail address:

OLphotos@bonniercorp.com

Please see official rules below for more details.

Outdoor Life Photo Contest

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

The Outdoor Life Photo Contest is open to amateur photographers who are legal residents of the 50 United States, Washington, D.C., who are at least 19 years of age on January 1, 2007. Employees of Outdoor Life, Time,
Inc., sponsors, their affiliates, parent companies, subsidiaries, agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household

of each are not eligible. Professional photographers are also ineligible to enter or win. By participating in the photo contest, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Outdoor Life judges, whose decisions are final and binding in all respects. All entries become the property of Outdoor Life and may be used in the future at its sole discretion. Sponsor reserves the right to verify eligibility qualifications of the winners. This contest is subject to all applicable federal, state, and local laws. The contest ends on March 15, 2007, 11:59 p.m. E.T.

All entries must be received by March 15, 2007. Winners will be announced in a future issue of Outdoor Life.

Photos may be entered as prints, slides, or digital images. Photo printing stations or kiosks produce prints using a method that is not suitable for reproduction in the magazine. Digital photos should be submitted with a color printout and an accompanying original JPG file.

Photos will not be returned. All photos are sent with the understanding that they may be published in Outdoor Life

magazine, on www.outdoorlife.com and its associated web sites and properties or partner web sites and promotional materials

and therefore the sender grants the right for such use.

All entries become the property of the Sponsor. Sponsor will not acknowledge receipt of entries. Entries will not be

returned. Proof of mailing does not constitute proof of delivery. Lost, late, illegible, and postage due entries are not

eligible.

1. Judging: Photos will be judged by Outdoor Life. Photos will be judged in each category: Hero Shot, Fishing; Hero

Shot, Hunting; Camp Life; Live Game; Nature/Scenic; and Humor. Photos not submitted with a category will not be eligible.

Judging in each category will be based on the following four criteria: photo quality, creativity, content and

composition.

2. Prize: One (1) Grand Prize Winner will receive a check for $500.00. Winner is responsible for paying any

applicable federal, state, and local taxes, and all other expenses associated with prize not explicitly stated herein as

being awarded. By accepting the prize, the winner acknowledges and agrees that the photo submitted shall be the sole and

exclusive property of Outdoor Life, its successors, assigns, and licensees shall be entitled to all rights of ownership,

title, interest, and all other intellectual property rights, including 100 percent of the copyrights, without further

compensation.

3. Winners: The winner will be notified by phone, postal mail, or e-mail on or about April 15, 2007. Winners will be

required to complete an Affidavit of Eligibility and Transfer of Rights/Promotional Liability Release, which must be signed

and received within 7 days of date printed on notification, or an alternate winner will be selected. For the names of the

winners, available after June 1, 2006, write to Outdoor Life Photo Contest 2007, Outdoor Life, 2 Park Avenue, 10th Floor, New

York, NY 10016.

4. Conditions: Entry constitutes permission to use the entrant's name, photograph and other likeness for the purpose

of advertising, trade and promotion on behalf of Outdoor Life without compensation, notification or approval, unless

prohibited by law. Entrant represents and warrants that the submitted photograph is an original, non-published work that does

not infringe the rights or intellectual property claims of any third parties. By entering, entrant conveys and assigns to

Outdoor Life all rights of ownership, title, interest and all other intellectual property rights, including without limit,

5. Limitations of Liability: By entering the contest, entrant holds harmless Outdoor Life from any liability

whatsoever for any claims, costs, injuries, losses, liability, actions or damages of any kind or in connection with: (1)

entering contest (2) acceptance of any prize or (3) anything related to the contest and the awarding of prizes. Any claims

relating to this contest shall be governed by New York law without regard to its conflict of law, rules, and any such claim

must be heard in New York.

6. Sponsor: The Sponsor and Administrator of the contest is Outdoor Life, 2 Park Avenue, 10th Floor, New York, NY

10016

Ultimate Adventure Contest 2007

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:26:40 -0400

Spend enough time in the outdoors and you're bound to come home with a story or two. Send us a tale about your wildest hunting trip, craziest fishing adventure or most hair-raising survival experience.

A panel of OL editors will select the best story, which will be published in a future issue of Outdoor Life. The winning author will also receive $500. Runners-up will be published on this Web site.

See below on ways to enter.

WAYS TO ENTER:

By Mail

1. Include a 750 to 1,000 word story regarding your greatest true outdoor adventure.

2. All entries must be typed, double-spaced, on 8½x11-inch paper, using only one side of the paper.

3. Be sure to include your Name, Address and Telephone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following address:

Outdoor Life, Ultimate Adventure Contest 2007

2 Park Ave.,
New York, NY 10016

By E-Mail

1. Include a 750 to 1,000 word story regarding your greatest true outdoor adventure in an email.

2. Be sure to include your Name, Address and Telephone Number in your submission.

Submit to the following E-Mail address:

OLadventure@bonniercorp.com

Please see official rules below for more details.

Outdoor Life Ultimate Adventure Contest

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW.

No purchase is necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law.

The Outdoor Life Ultimate Adventure Contest is open only to legal residents of the 50 United States, Washington D.C., who are at least 19 years of age on January 1, 2007. Employees of Outdoor Life, Time,
Inc., sponsors, their affiliates, parent companies, subsidiaries, agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household

of each are not eligible.

Story entries are limited to roughly 750 to 1,000 words regarding the writer's greatest true outdoor adventure. All entries

must be typed, double-spaced, on 8½x11-inch paper, using only one side of the paper, and must include the writer's name,

address and telephone number. One story accepted per entrant. Each entry must be an original, non-published work written in

English, and the content must be appropriate for a national magazine, as determined by Outdoor Life's editors.

Mail your entry to Outdoor Life Ultimate Adventure Contest, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016, or you may enter online at

outdoorlife.com. Online entries will be accepted until the contest closing date of March 8, 2007, 11:59 p.m. ET. Mailed

entries must be postmarked by March 8, 2007, and received by March 15, 2007.

Outdoor Life's editors will select one winning story within 60 days after the contest ends; all entries will be evaluated

equally on content and presentation. All decisions are final. The winning story will be published in a future issue of

Outdoor Life (to be determined by the editors of Outdoor Life), and the writer of the winning story will receive $500.

Outdoor Life will select two runner-up stories to be published on the Outdoor Life Web site. Acceptance of prize constitutes

permission to Outdoor Life and its agencies to use winner's name and/or likeness for purposes of advertising and trade

without further compensation unless prohibited by law. Entrants represent and warrant that submitted stories are original

works and do not infringe the rights of any third parties. All materials submitted become the sole property of Outdoor Life

and will not be returned. By accepting prize, winner agrees to hold Outdoor Life and its affiliates, subsidiaries annd their

respective directors, officers, employees and assigns harmless against any and all claims and liability arising out of use of

prize. By entering, entrants transfer to Outdoor Life all right, title and interest, including copyright, in and to the

winning story.

The potential winner will be notified by mail within two weeks of the selection of the winning story and must sign and return

an Affidavit of Eligibility and Transfer of Rights/Promotional Liability Release within seven days of attempted notification

before the prize can be awarded. Noncompliance within this time period will result in disqualification and an alternate will

be selected. By participating in this contest, entrants agree to be bound by the Official Rules and the decisions of the

judges. Outdoor Life is not responsible for any typographical or other error in the printing of the offer, administration of

the contest or in the announcement of the prize. Outdoor Life is not responsible for lost, late, mutilated or illegible

entries. Parent or guardian must complete the Affidavit of Eligibility and Transfer of Rights/Promotional Liability Release

for any winner who is a minor. All federal, state and local taxes are the responsibility of each winner. Any claims relating

to this contest shall be governed by New York law without regard to its conflict of law, rules, and any such claim must be

heard in New York.

For names of winners, available after May 31, 2007, send a separate, self-addressed, stamped envelope to Outdoor Life,

Ultimate Adventure Results, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016, to be received by May 15, 2007. This contest is sponsored by

Outdoor Life, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016.

We Want YOUR Big Buck Photos

outdoorlife-editor — Tue, 18 Sep 2007 12:26:39 -0400

It's the peak of deer season and we know you're probably out hunting hard. If you or a hunting buddy drops a heavy-rack deer this season be sure to email us the photos. We'll be featuring reader photos of trophy kills on the website frequently.

We're also looking for video, so if you have footage from the stand, or with your buck, send that along, too.

Email submissions to webmaster@outdoorlife.com.