Modern Pioneer - September 2017

t
THIRST NO MORE: TAP INTO GROUNDWATER BY HAND

ENGAGED OUTDOOR SERIES: MODERN PIONEER
AUG/SEPT
HOMESTEADING 2017
SKILLS
• SMOKE WILD GAME MEAT
• BUILD A RETAINING WALL
• 5 WAYS TO OBTAIN FOOD
HOME
BOW SHOP
3 MUST-HAVE PRODUCTS
HISTORIC ALEXANDER
STEWS MACKENZIE
TASTY BOOYAH, HISTORIC EXPLORER
BURGOO & GUMBO AND FUR TRADER
SALVAGE TAKE DOWN

SAVVY BIG ELK
FROM TRASH WITH YOUR TRUSTY
TO TREASURE DEER RIFLE
HOW-TO U.S. $8.99

ENGAGED OUTDOOR SERIES
DISPLAY UNTIL 9/19/17
27
TECHNIQUES
AUG/SEPT 2017
1 2 3
CREATE CONCOCT CATCH
YOUR OWN WOOD SNAPPING 7 25274 01401 9
CANDLES VARNISH TURTLES ENGAGED MEDIA INC.
MP_FINAL2.indd 1 6/28/17 12:55 AM

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
“I love the sounds and the power of pounding water,

whether it is the waves or a waterfall.”
— Mike May
2 | MODERN PIONEER | APRIL/MAY 2017
MP-1708-QUOTE.indd 2 6/21/17 4:10 AM

[ from the editor ]
There’s No Place Like ...
PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL

THE SUNSET AND ITS LUMINOUS EFFECTS ON THE want to experience life with them. So, for now, I’m torn
ROLLING PRAIRIES were, as always, impeccable. It was between two loves, and I feel obligated to choose the more
the perfect end to another incredible day taking in all the important one. Alas, my dreams must wait, but I’m not
American West offers during a recent trip to South Dakota. giving up on them. I’ll live out west one day, Lord willing. In
Each time I visit Nebraska, Wyoming or South Dakota, the meantime, we’re fortunate enough to visit the West at
their simple beauty blows me away. To many folks, the least once or twice annually.
prairies of these states make up little more than boring Wisconsin will probably always feel like “home,” even if
wastelands. But to me, they’re places of solitude where my wife and I one day settle out west. I have so many fond
I can inhale pure, sage-scented air, and gaze across memories here. Wisconsin winters, however, are nearly
seemingly infinite miles of untouched and uninhabited unbearable: subzero temps with deep snow and gusting
beauty—perhaps just the way it was in the days of, say, winds. Those, I’m not so fond of.
Laura Ingalls Wilder. In Wisconsin, despite my fond memories, many days
Everyone has their happy place. For some, it’s the golf blend together with no significant differences between
course. For others, it’s the beach or mountains. Or, maybe one another. Out west, though, each day seems to bring
it’s nothing more than the rocking chair on the back deck, something new, which is probably why it fascinates me
cup of coffee in hand. Regardless, your personality largely so. For an outdoorsman/hunter, it’s paradise. For me,
determines where your personal happy place is. nothing rivals the shrieking bugle of a bull elk, the sight of
Even though I enjoy visiting with folks and getting 20 pronghorn antelope skipping across the prairie, or the
to know them, I love solitude. An introvert, I’m not the towering mountains in the distance. I dream about these
loud or outgoing type. I like quiet time, and frankly, my things daily. And the only way to satisfy my craving for
work requires it. So, it’s no secret why I love the West’s them is to simply go and take them in. Yes, for me, there is
unadulterated areas teeming with smells, sights, wildlife no place like out west.
and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. In fact, I’ve vowed to Editor’s note: Where’s your happy place? I want to know.
one day call the West “home.” Send me an E-mail at darronmcdougal@yahoo.com.
Meanwhile, most of my immediate family and in-laws
all live within a 10-mile radius in Wisconsin. With brothers
and sisters and nieces and nephews growing up and parents
and grandparents growing old, my wife and I spend much
of our time with those we love. It’s bittersweet, because as
much as we love the West, we love our families more and Darron McDougal
AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 | MODERN PIONEER | 3
MP-1706-EDIT.CX.indd 3 6/27/17 3:46 AM

contents AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
FEATURES GENERAL HUNTING/SHOOTING

50 Set in Stone 30 Horizontal Bowhunting
A well-built gabion wall is timeless and 5 tips for buying your first crossbow
can withstand earth’s natural forces By Al Raychard
By Clay Newcomb
58 Treetop Bushy Tails
72 Beauty Restored Gamo airguns are put to the test
Do your hardwood floors lack luster? Try By Thomas C. Tabor
this DIY potion for less than $50
By Charles Witosky 80 Bust Big Elk With a Deer Rifle
Planning an elk hunt and think you need
122 Historic Stews a bigger rifle? If you hunt deer, think
Unique, region-specific tastes from again.
around the U.S. By Patrick Meitin
By Michael Pendley
88 Mobile Deer Camp
Go the tent route in search of whitetail
64
adventure
SURVIVAL By Tony J. Peterson
22 Thirst No More
COVER With hard work and some knowledge, a
96 Small Stuff With Big Benefits
STORY water supply might be closer than you
Little things can make your shelter more
liveable
think
Taste of the Wild By Dana Benner
By Michael D’Angona
DIY smoked bear shoulder
106 Fatal Attraction
By Clay Newcomb 114 The Chill That Kills
Hunt near irresistible fruit trees to bag
Hypothermia’s cold hard facts
your next whitetail
By Mike Yancey
44
38 80
44 50
4 | MODERN PIONEER | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
MP-1708-TOC.CX.indd 4 6/27/17 3:49 AM

EDITORIAL
Doug Jeffrey Editorial Director
Darron McDougal Editor
Michelle Salcedo Managing Editor
DESIGN
Claire Morales Art Director
Eric Knagg Design Director
CONTRIBUTORS
Dana Benner, Kristi Cook, Michael D’Angona,Jason Houser, Patrick Meitin,
Clay Newcomb, Michael Pendley, Tony J. Peterson, Darryl Quidort, Al Raychard,
Thomas C. Tabor, Mike Yancey
ADVERTISING
Gabe Frimmel Ad Sales Director
(714) 200-1930
gfrimmel@engagedmediainc.com
Casey Clifford Senior Account Executive
(714) 200-1982
Mark Pack Senior Account Executive
BUSHCRAFT DEPARTMENTS (714) 200-1939

Joe Galloway Senior Account Executive
(863) 370-4376
Danny Chang Senior Account Executive
44 Setlines for Turtles (714) 200-1900 ext. 1948
Haul in giant snappers with a 3 From the Editor Charles Dorr Account Executive
(714) 200-1931
$2 setup John Bartulin (866) 866-5146 ext. 2746
By Jason Houser 6 Pioneer Post John Cabral Advertising Design
Gennifer Merriday Advertising Traffic Coordinator
Eric Gomez Advertising Traffic Coordinator
11 Review
MARKETING
SELF-RELIANCE 12 Gear Showcase

Elise Portale Content Marketing Manager
Michael Chadwick Digital Marketing and Media Coordinator
Brooke Sanders Content Marketing Specialist
Eric Surber Content Marketing Specialist
14 Salvage Savvy Andrew Dunbar Videographer
One man’s trash is another man’s
OPERATIONS
treasure
By Dana Benner
COLUMNS Robert Short IT Manager
Parveen Kumar Newsstand and Circulation Analyst
Shailesh Khandelwal Subscriptions Manager
Alex Mendoza Administrative Assistant
38 Ultimate Provider Samantha Mendoza Administrative Assistant
8 Do-it-Yourself Victoria Van Vlear Intern Program Manager
5 ways to obtain food without grocery History’s First Shotgun
shopping Loading and shooting a flintlock fowler EDITORIAL, PRODUCTION & SALES OFFICE
17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine, CA 92614
By Dana Benner By Darryl Quidort (714) 939-9991 • Fax: (800) 249-7761
www.americansurvivalguide.com
130 Past Pioneering facebook.com/americansurvivalguidemagazine
98 Ancient Glow facebook.com/eembybeckett
Alexander Mackenzie
A time-tested, no-batteries-required By Darryl Quidort MODERN PIONEER (ISSN 2331-8937) is published bi-monthly in December/January,
emergency lighting solution February/March, April/May, June/July, August/September, October/November by
Engaged Media, Inc., 17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine, CA 92614.© 2017 by
By Kristi Cook
Engaged Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any material from
this issue in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.
CUSTOMER SERVICE
Engaged Media, Inc.
17890 Sky Park Circle #250, Irvine, CA 92614
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djeffrey@engagedmediainc.com
Single copy price is $8.99.

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ENGAGED MEDIA, INC.

Mike Savino CEO
Nathaniel Phillips Human Resources Director
Jason Mulroney Content Director
COVER COMPOSITE BY ERIC KNAGG
Pinaki Bhattacharya Vertical Manager
Philip Trinkle Newsstand Sales Director
Bob Hulsy Business Development Director
Sabra Morris Director of Content Marketing
This magazine is purchased by the buyer with the understanding that

information presented is from various sources from which there can be no warranty
or responsibility by Engaged Media Inc., as to the legality, completeness or
technical accuracy.
MP-1708-TOC.CX.indd 5 6/27/17 3:49 AM

pioneer post
Bird Bio: Eastern Whippoorwill
The eastern whippoorwill is a scrappy little bird
that boasts such excellent camouflage it doesn’t
even need to build a nest for its brood.
The brindled birds are famous for their
distinctive call that’s echoed in their name.
Feeding primarily at night, the carnivorous birds
subsist exclusively on insects such as moths, ants,
bees, fireflies, weevils and scavenger beetles. They
begin searching for food 30 minutes after sunset
and stop when it gets too dark for them to see. The
birds’ eyes are equipped with a reflective structure
behind the retina that allows them to see insects’
PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA

silhouettes against the sky, assisting in their
nighttime dining forays.
Eastern whippoorwills avoid large, uninterrupted
forests covered with dense canopies. Their
preferred breeding grounds are dry deciduous
or evergreen deciduous forests with minimal
underbrush. The birds’ feathers so closely match
the brownish-gray leaf litter of their breeding Keep an ear open for the haunting whippoorwill call next
grounds that they don’t even bother building nests, preferring to time you’re enjoying the forests of the eastern United States.
hatch their eggs directly on the ground and then move nestlings For more info on these plentiful yet interesting birds, check out
around as they grow to avoid predators. allaboutbirds.org.
So, You Think You Know George Washington

Anyone who’s grown up in the U.S. has studied our famous
first president, George Washington. We’ve all certainly heard the
apocryphal story of the infamous cherry tree, but here are a few
tidbits about one of our most famous founding fathers that you
probably didn’t learn about in grade school.
1. Epicurean
President Washington had adventurous—for the time—and
eclectic tastes in food. Some of his favorites included mashed
sweet potatoes with coconut and cream of peanut soup.
2. High School Dropout?

Although Washington started school when he was just 6
years old, he was forced to abandon his studies at 15 because his
family could no longer afford to pay for his studies. He went on to
become a surveyor.
3. Drastic Dentistry
The first president’s teeth pained him throughout most of his
life. At age 57, he had them all pulled and wore a set of ivory false
teeth set in a silver plate.
4. Dog Lover
Washington was incredibly fond of dogs and treated the
hounds he bred as members of his family. He even went so far as
to give them cute names that expressed his affection for them,
like Truelove and Sweet Lips.
5. Sweet Home Philadelphia

Washington assisted in planning the U.S.’s capital, but ironically,
he never lived in the city that bears his name. Instead, he lived in
New York City and, once he became president, in Philadelphia.
MP-1706-POST.CX.indd 6 6/27/17 3:52 AM

Backyard Astronomy

With simply a small telescope, and sometimes just a good pair of
binoculars or even the naked eye, it’s possible to view some of the planets
that shine in the night sky.
Mercury and Venus, known as inferior planets, orbit closer to the sun
than Earth. Although Mercury shines brighter than most other celestial
bodies, because it never manifests farther than 28 degrees from the sun,
it’s very difficult to locate. Venus, on the other hand, has a much larger
orbit than little Mercury, and is visible with the naked eye most of the year.
The remaining planets: Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus and Neptune, bright zones and dark belts. Swirling eddies and Jupiter’s famous Great
known as superior planets, are visible using a telescope. The time when Red Spot are also visible at opposition.
these planets lie on the far side of the sun as seen from Earth is called Saturn’s unique and intriguing rings can be seen using a small
conjunction. The planets will move into the morning sky, climbing scope. It will take a larger scope to view the details of Saturn’s rings,
increasingly higher. Ultimately, the planet arrives at the point in its orbit but backyard observers will be able to locate the planet’s moons with
where it lies opposite the sun in Earth’s sky; this configuration is known as a small telescope.
opposition. The superior planets are most visible to us at opposition, and Uranus and Neptune can be located with a small scope, and Uranus
they will remain visible all night long. can even be seen with the naked eye if viewed from a very dark location
Simply locating the planets can be exciting enough for novice away from city lights. Details of both will be very limited.
astronomers, but with a modest telescope, specific characteristics can Embattled Pluto will offer no detail with a small scope. In fact, you’ll
be identified on the planets that lie closer to Earth. Mars, the nearest require an 8-inch scope and a detailed star chart simply to locate it, but
superior planet, offers the most detail. Larger Jupiter displays a series of it’s an exciting find for budding backyard astronomers.
Camping’s Greatest Hits

American campers are some of the water activities dominate summer and
luckiest because we live in a country spring; fall is best for hiking and winter
that boasts some of the most varied and is perfect for cross-country skiing,
beautiful landscapes on the planet. Our snowshoeing and ice fishing. This unique
state and national parks and forests offer park is mostly water, but if you don’t own
some of the best outdoor adventures a boat, you can take advantage of guided
around from awesome sightseeing and boat tours. Hikes are accessible by car
rugged hikes to useful amenities and or boat. There are 220 campsites in the
interesting historical locations. We’ve park, and it’s open year round.
compiled a small sampling of some of the
best parks in several regions of the U.S. South
Everglades National Park, Florida
West A wildlife spotter’s dream, Everglades
Joshua Tree National Park, California NP is home to many rare species such
Desert camping doesn’t top most as manatees, alligators, dolphins and
campers’ lists, but Joshua Tree National the endangered Florida panther. Hiking,
Park might change their minds. The park is world and travel a 30-mile road through biking, canoeing and kayaking are the
located at the intersection of the low-lying the rain forest. Ruby Beach offers views of preferred activities in this Southern park,
Colorado Desert and the slightly higher mountains, glaciers and rain forests from the but guided tours of the many mangrove
and cooler Mojave Desert. The vegetation shore, and visitors can watch whales right forests and freshwater marshes are also
and climate of the two areas is markedly from the beach at La Push during migration offered. There are two campgrounds, and
different. There are many trails to hike and 10 season. The park hosts 16 campgrounds and several backcountry campsites, which are
mountain peaks higher than 5,000 feet. The backcountry camping is allowed. The park is somewhat difficult to access. The park is
park is a favorite rock-climbing destination, open year round. open year round.
and it’s popularity as a vacation spot for
nearby Los Angeles locals has exploded in Mountain Northeast
recent years. The park offers nine established Sawtooth National Forest, Idaho Green Mountain National Forest,
campgrounds and backcountry camping is A portion of the Rocky Mountains rather Vermont
allowed. The park is open year round. confusingly called The Smoky Mountains Hiking is king is Green Mountain
makes up a part of this little-known region. National Forest. Vermont’s Long Trail
Northwest The steep, majestic mountains, pristine lakes is partially located in the forest and is
Olympic National Park, Washington and beautiful, wildflower-bedecked vistas an enticing lure to hikers from around
Proof that the U.S. offers amazing will remind you of alpine views in Europe. the region. The 270-mile trail is the
variation, campers can travel from the There are dozens of campgrounds in the area oldest long-distance trail in the U.S. and
low-lying deserts of the West to the cool and the region is open year round. follows the ridge of the Green Mountains
rainforests of Olympic National Park in through Vermont from Massachusetts
just two or three days of driving. Olympic Midwest to the Canadian border. There are
NP hosts three different ecosystems. In Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota five campgrounds, and backcountry
the Quinault Rain Forest area, visitors can Each season in Voyageurs offers different camping is allowed. The forest is open
view the largest Sitka spruce tree in the activities. Boating, swimming and other year round. MP
MP-1706-POST.indd 7 6/21/17 12:28 AM

do-it-yourself
History’s First Shotgun

LOADING AND SHOOTING A FLINTLOCK FOWLER
> By Darryl Quidort
PHOTO BY DARRYL QUIDORT

THE LONG-BARRELED, SMOOTH- Loading the Fowler over the fireplace mantel.
BORED—no rifling grooves in the barrel— The load used in a muzzleloading Muzzleloading shotguns are usually
flintlock gun played a major role in early shotgun is very similar to a modern loaded with what’s called a square load.
American firearms. Extremely versatile, the shotgun load, except that the components This means that the same measure is used
gun could fire a single round lead ball with are loaded directly down the barrel of a for both the black powder and shot. Using
decent accuracy, or be loaded with loose muzzleloader instead of into a modern shot the same volume of powder and shot works
lead pellets and used as a shotgun. In this shell casing. Most loadings available in well for all of the various shotgun loads and
article, we’ll discuss the latter. modern shot shells can be duplicated by a greatly simplifies the loading process.
muzzleloading shotgun. In a muzzleloader,
The Early Shotgun every shot is basically a custom load. This Safety First
When used as a shotgun, it allowed pioneer allows the flexibility to tailor each load for a Although fowlers are historic, quaint
hunters to cleanly take fast-moving small specific purpose. and romantic, they’re not toys. Always
game, even knocking flying game birds out Various combinations of powder charge, remember to put safety first! They require
of the air, earning it the name “fowler.” The shot size and wad spacing allow loading the same respect and careful handling as all
long-barreled fowler eventually evolved into the gun to match the game. A smoothbore firearms. Black powder is explosive; handle
today’s short-barreled shotguns. Early fowlers can be loaded “down” for trap shooting it with care. Never exceed the maximum
were usually .62 caliber, which is equivalent or loaded “up” for turkey hunting. Some load recommended for your gun. Before
to a 20-gauge shotgun. Later, other gauges pioneers preferred a smoothbore fowler loading, make sure that the barrel is clean
became available. The double-barreled fowler, over a rifle because of this versatility. Many and dry, and that the flash hole of the lock is
or shotgun, was developed for a quick second meals were provided for pioneer families, open and clean. Start with the frizzen open
shot before it was necessary to reload. thanks to the flintlock fowler that hung and the hammer fully down.
MP-1708-DIY.indd 8 6/21/17 3:46 AM

5-STEP LOADING PROCEDURE
5-Step Loading Procedure
Loading a muzzleloading shotgun isn’t
complicated, but the components must be
loaded in the proper sequence. The following
steps will guide you through the procedure.
E STEP 1: Load powder. Be sure to use the

proper granulation of black powder. This is
usually fg (2fg) for shotguns. Pour a proper
charge of black powder from the powder horn
or container into a measure. Close the horn or
container. Pour the measured powder charge
down the barrel. Never load the gun directly
from the horn or container.
E STEP 2. Load wads. Place a tight-fitting,

correct gauge over-powder wad (about STEP 1: Load powder STEP 2: Load wads
1/8-inch-thick, dense cardboard) into the
muzzle and push it about 1 inch down the
barrel. This wad forms a tight gas seal in the
bore. Then, place a fiber cushion wad (about
½-inch thick) into the muzzle. This wad is
often lubricated with oil or grease to help
clear fouling from the barrel. Use the ramrod
to push both wads down the barrel at once
and seat them firmly against the powder
charge.
E STEP 3: Load shot. Use the same

measure that was used for the powder
charge to measure out the lead shot. This is
the volume for volume or square load that is
standard in smoothbore muzzleloading. Pour
STEP 3: Load shot STEP 4: Load over-powder card
the loose shot down the bore.
E STEP 4: Load card. Seat a thin, stiff over-

shot card (about 1/16-inch-thick cardboard)
firmly down on top of the shot. This card will
finish the load and keep the loose shot in
place as the shotgun is carried while hunting
or shooting. It may be necessary to punch a
pin hole in this wad to keep trapped air from
pushing it back up as it is rammed down.
PHOTOS BY DARRYL QUIDORT

E STEP 5: Prime pan. Lastly, with the
muzzle pointed in a safe direction, bring the
hammer to the half-cocked position, and
place a small amount of fine fg (4fg) black
powder in the pan of the lock and close the
frizzen down on the pan. The shotgun is now STEP 5: Prime pan
ready to cock and shoot.
Experienced shooters will mark the ramrod An example might be, 1 ounce of #6 shot pattern. Make only one change at a time until
at the muzzle for a visible check that the load for rabbit hunting. Shoot a pattern on a you find the best load for your gun.
is seated to the correct depth every time. This large piece of cardboard or paper to see Several gun makers are now producing
mark can also be used for a quick check to how your gun patterns that load at the modern replicas of long-barreled flintlock
indicate if a barrel is loaded or empty. distance you expect to shoot. If the shot fowlers, which look and shoot just as they did
pattern is satisfactory, you’re done. centuries ago. These are efficient and enjoyable
Finding the Best Load and If you want to try to improve the shotguns and, with the proper load, will rival the
Pattern pattern, experiment with the various shooting results of even modern shotguns.
Each muzzleloading shotgun seems to components to develop a better load. Hunting with a historic blackpowder gun adds
be an individual. Part of the fun of shooting If your pattern shows a hole in the challenge to the hunt, and there is nothing like
them is learning the proper load that delivers center, try leaving out the fiber cushion the thrill of successfully taking game the way
the best shot pattern. To work up a load, wad. Sometimes using slightly less our forefathers did. The roaring “boom” and
begin with a square load of the proper size powder will tighten the pattern. Each rolling cloud of thick, white smoke from a fully
and amount of shot you would like to shoot. component of the load will affect the loaded flintlock fowler is unmistakable. MP
MP-1708-DIY.indd 9 6/21/17 3:47 AM

do-it-yourself
“Many meals
were provided for
pioneer families,
thanks to the
flintlock fowler
that hung over
the fireplace
mantel.”
PHOTO BY DARRYL QUIDORT
Quidort enjoys the thrill of taking game the way our

forefathers did. The author’s flintlock fowler is virtually
the same as those used by pioneers centuries ago.
MP-1708-DIY.indd 10 6/21/17 3:47 AM

review Home Bow Shop Trio
Three must-have products from Last Chance Archery
As an avid archer and bowhunter, I A measuring tape is integrated so you can easily
frequently tinker with my equipment. adjust the press for your bow’s axle-to-axle length
That’s partially because I worked at an prior to pressing. Pressing the bow is simple: Hold the
archery pro shop as a technician for 10 bow’s limb tips against the press’ fingers, then simply
years, but also because I get satisfaction from turn the hand crank clockwise until the bowstring’s
PRODUCT: EZ Green Press taking game with equipment that I set up and tension releases.
MSRP: $399 tune myself. I also test and evaluate equipment from There are several items, as an archer, I wouldn’t
manufacturers, plus I handle any servicing my wife’s be caught dead without. The EZ Green press is high
bow needs, as well. on the list.
Every time I get a new bow, I outfit it with
accessories and tune it. Sometimes our bows EZ Green Vise
need minor adjustments on short notice Convenience is an asset when performing bow
during bowhunting season, too. This, of course, work that requires both hands. The EZ Green bow
requires tools. vise mounts to a workbench. It firmly grasps the bow,
You can probably imagine how many trips I’d holding it upright for operations like tying on a string
make to an archery shop and the money I’d spend loop, yet offering the versatility to orient the bow to
if I didn’t have the knowledge and necessities to virtually any angle for other tasks using a 360° axis-
work on and service our bows at home. So, I use adjustment system. The vise’s connection points are
Last Chance Archery’s economical EZ Green bow cushioned with rubber tubing to prevent limb scuffs
press, EZ Green vise and Handheld Bow Scale. and damage. I’ve worked on bows with and without
These outstanding products are essential to my a bow vise, and without question, a vise allows a
home bow shop. bow technician to perform work more precisely with
hands-free convenience. For the price, the EZ Green
EZ Green Press bow vise is a no-brainer.
If you’re unaware, a bow press simply “presses”
the bow until the bowstring’s tension releases, Handheld Bow Scale
PRODUCT: EZ Green Vise allowing you to work on the bow, perhaps installing a While working as a bow technician, I learned that
MSRP: $90 peep sight or adjusting cam synchronization, among few customers knew their bow’s draw weight. They’d
other things. take a guess, but then be surprised when we’d reveal
Most of the market’s bow presses are designed that it was significantly higher or lower than they’d
for commercial use in an archery retail store. As originally believed. My question is this: Why guess
such, they’re often cumbersome and take up a when you can know?
lot of space. They’re not exactly friendly for home The Handheld Bow Scale simplifies draw-weight
bow shops. checks: Simply insert the device’s hook into your
The EZ Green remedies that. Not only is it far string loop and draw your bow. Of course, the highest
more affordable than most bow presses of equal digital reading as you draw is your draw weight, but
craftsmanship, it’s also remarkably compact. Plus, you can also continue to full draw and hold there to
it can be accessorized to further simplify bow work. read the holding weight.
Last Chance also offers a plethora of clever add-
ons that include tool trays and several mounting One-Stop Home Bow Shop
options. The EZ Green press can either be mounted The products I’ve outlined here are outstanding,
to a bench as is, or it can be used in conjunction but they represent only a fraction of Last Chance
PRODUCT: Handheld Bow Scale with Last Chance’s floor stand or hitch mount (both Archery’s offerings. Many more accessories and
PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAST CHANCE ARCHERY
MSRP: $30 sold separately), which slides into the hitch receiver devices are available: grain scales, fletching jigs and
on the back of your vehicle. Traveling archers and advanced-grade bow presses, among others. But, for
bowhunters will find the second option quite useful. the home bow shop, the three products I’ve covered
Last Chance bow presses feature a patented here will get you started. I’ve used other bow presses
finger system that presses the limb tips just as if the and vises in the past, yet none are as simple and
LAST CHANCE ARCHERY bow were being drawn back, which doesn’t twist the convenient as those from Last Chance Archery. With
(706) 654-1961 limbs or stress/torque the riser. Additionally, limb them (and a little knowhow), you can perform most
Lastchancearchery.com adapters are available for most compound bow technical bow operations from the comfort of home.
makes so that limbs aren’t damaged while pressing That’s hard to beat.
your bow. —Darron McDougal
MP-1706-REVIEW.indd 11 6/22/17 3:10 AM

gear SHOWCASE
A DRINK ALWAYS CLOSE

AT HAND
Tackle Webs developed its new hook-and-loop cup holder
specifically with boaters and fishermen in mind. While these
cup holders work great in those situations, they work equally
well for many other applications. Whether in a truck, car, ATV
or SUV, hook-and-loop cup holders secure many different
types of drinks and containers, up to and including a huge
30-ounce Yeti Rambler. They come ready to install with THIRST PREVENTION AND PATRIOTISM
marine-grade hook-and-loop fasteners that are easy to peel After serving America for 13 years, ex-Navy Seal Eli Crane and his wife
and stick, eliminating the need for drilling, screws or any turned entrepreneurs when they formed Bottle Breacher. Operating
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MP-1708-GEAR.CX.indd 12 6/27/17 3:58 AM

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MP-1708-GEAR.indd 13 6/21/17 4:03 AM

• SELF-RELIANCE •
14 | MODERN PIONEER |AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
MP-1708-TRASH.CX.indd 14 6/27/17 4:02 AM

SALVAGE
SAVVY
ONE MAN’S TRASH IS
ANOTHER MAN’S
TREASURE
By Dana Benner

I
t’s sad to say, but we live in a throwaway
society. If something breaks, we simply
toss it out and buy a new one. Granted,
many modern products, from autos
to washing machines, are designed to be
discarded. But, the crafty elite in our midst is
embracing the time-honored skill of salvage,
though today we call it “repurposing” or
“recycling,” as if it were something new.
The Resurgence of an Ancient Practice

Salvage yards, which replaced junkyards, are
now very popular. I credit salvaging’s comeback
to TV shows like “Alaskan Bush People” and
“Alaska: The Last Frontier.” Granted, not
everything can be created or repaired through
salvage, but the folks on these shows seem to
do a great deal with very little.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGE

Salvage City
In the Lower 48, there are few areas with
an economy driven by the salvage industry,
but Key West, Florida, is an exception. To learn
more, I traveled south to find out how salvage
was, and still is, a viable economic source for
16 | MODERN PIONEER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017
MP-1708-TRASH.indd 16 6/21/17 5:22 AM

[SALVAGE]
“… early settlers in Key West soon found

a very profitable business salvaging the
numerous wrecks.”
this south Florida city. The first stop on my West became a haven for pirates and privateers (opposite) For those who
research mission was the Key West Shipwreck working for Britain who preyed upon Spanish have the skill and the
gumption, salvage yards
Museum. Though the museum is geared to the merchant ships. Those captains were unfamiliar offer the spare parts and
many tourists that visit Key West, it provides a with the reefs and often ran aground on them, pieces needed to make
wealth of information for anyone interested in especially ships sitting low in the water due to broken or dated items like
repurposing discarded material. their loads of supplies. Wrecks and their cargo new again.
When Ponce de Leon “discovered” Florida in of gold, rum, molasses and slaves were freely (below) Salvaging is a
1513, the area that we now know as the Florida scavenged by anyone who could reach them. time-honored practice
Keys was named Los Martires or “the martyrs.” According to Clinton Curry of the Key West that’s enjoying a resur-
The islands were known to and even visited Shipwreck Museum, early settlers to Key gence thanks in part to
reality TV shows like,
by early explorers, but the landforms didn’t West soon found a very profitable business in “Alaskan Bush People.”
start appearing on European sailing maps for salvaging the numerous wrecks. By the 1850s,
another century or so. This is too bad, because if wrecking and salvaging became the island’s top
they had, then many a sailing ship would have industry. This was the “golden age of sail,” with
been made aware of the dangerous coral reefs more than 100 ships passing by Key West daily.
that surround the keys, particularly Key West. According to Clinton, because of the dangerous
Controlled by the British until after the coral-laden waters, one ship would wreck per
American Revolution, the waters around Key week, on average.
MP-1708-TRASH.indd 17 6/21/17 5:22 AM

This house in Key West was built entirely from the wood
salvaged from wrecked ships. There are a few such houses
still standing in Key West. PHOTO BY DANA BENNER
MP-1708-TRASH.indd 18 6/21/17 5:22 AM

[SALVAGE]
The Wreckers
From high watchtowers, wreckers (or
scavengers) would scan the edges of the reef
both day and night looking for unfortunate
ships that had run aground. Wreckers could
make a large profit if they reached a ship
first. The business became so profitable that
storehouses abounded to house merchandise
until it could be sold. Unless the original owners
could afford to pay the price of recovery, the
goods would be sold to the highest bidder.
As much as gold, silver and rum had
tangible value, of more importance to Key West
residents were perishable items like cloth, tools,
fruits, vegetables and other items not easily
obtainable in that remote area, not to mention
the timber and iron the wrecked ships could
provide. Because the islands had very little
usable timber, houses and storage centers were
very difficult, if not impossible, to construct, so
usable timber was in high demand.
Salvaged iron was used to make nails,
hinges and tools. Other pieces of the ship, such
as sails, compasses and rigging, were often

pieced out for use on other ships the same way
that wrecked cars are sold for parts today.
Monetary vs. Historical Value

The percentage awarded to the wrecker was
governed by wrecking courts, but by 1921, with
This Key West homeowner reused discarded

pieces from electrical towers. PHOTO BY DANA BENNER

Coffin
Marine
Services
Many people are
familiar with the term
“wrecker.” Wreckers
are the trucks that
come to our aid when
we’re broken down by
the side of the road.
The term originates
from the marine-
salvage industry.
Wreckers help out with
shipwrecks. Marine
salvage services, like
Coffin Marine Services,
continue to operate
to this day in the
Florida Keys.
Captain Coffin has
more than 30 years
of marine experience.
He’s done everything

from diving and
marine-vessel repair
to commercial fishing
and marine salvage. A
list of salvaged items
for sale can be found at
coffinmarine.com.
MP-1708-TRASH.indd 20 6/21/17 5:22 AM

[SALVAGE]
the advent of a reliable rail system and better Coffin can recover that authorities consider (opposite, top) The detritus
that washes ashore can
nautical navigation, the industry changed. To abandoned. These ships are called derelicts,
be reused by anyone who
learn more, I visited the Mel Fisher Maritime and they’re the ones from which wreckers can claims it.
Museum where I spoke with Cory Malcom, sell anything and everything. Coffin told me
director of archaeology. I learned that salvage that doors, anchors and portholes off these (opposite, below) Many
residents in Key West
and treasure hunting focused mainly on ships are top sellers.
repurpose scavanged
the monetary return of items found, where After speaking with Coffin, I walked around items for use around their
archaeology is concerned with the historical Key West to learn more. As I strolled the back homes.
value. While people have been salvaging and streets, I could see that salvage and repurposed
treasure hunting since the advent of ships, items are very important to the culture and
marine archaeology started taking off in the ’60s. aesthetic of the area. The people of Key West
The historical aspect is important and fun to seem to really embrace the lifestyle.
study, but I was more interested in learning about
modern salvage and treasure hunting. I spoke Trash or Treasure?
with John Coffin of Coffin Marine Services. His From Florida to Maine and everywhere
business specializes in all dimensions of marine- in between, people repurpose and reuse all
recovery operations. Coffin Marine Services is sorts of things. The next time you’re prepared
located on Big Pine Key, but I arranged to sit down to throw something out, consider: Can it be
and talk with Coffin in Key West. reused or repurposed? Can it be repaired at
According to Coffin, the rules and little or no cost simply by finding salvaged
regulations governing marine salvage have pieces? Can it be taken apart and the working
changed a lot since the 1800s, and wreckers parts sold or traded to someone who needs
now need special licenses and must follow them? I continually find the old adage to be
specific rules to do their jobs. People still buy true, one man’s junk definitely is another
the items that can be salvaged, which keeps man’s treasure. MP
wreckers in business. Coffin also told me
that some of the jobs are controlled by state Sources:
or federal agencies. Some jobs are reported Key West Shipwreck Museum
by state and federal agencies, but aren’t keywestshipwreck.com
under federal control. I found the process Coffin Marine Services
very confusing, and it’s obviously far more coffinmarine.com
complicated than it was in the 1800s. Mel Fisher Maritime Museum
The real money in salvage comes from boats melfisher.org
Key West Shipwreck Museum

The history of Key West, Florida, is tied indelibly to the ocean. when Key West was known as the Conch Republic.
Fishing, sponge diving and wrecking all put Key West on the map. You’ll see many items on display in the museum that give you an
The Key West Shipwreck Museum is dedicated to preserving the idea of what was salvaged. Some items might seem of little value
history of the wrecking trade as it was in Key West during the mid- today, but consider how it was 200 years ago. Nails and wood were
to late-1800s. It does this by telling the story of a shipwreck that scarce and valuable to the island’s residents. A visit to the museum
occurred in 1856. Actors in period dress take you back in time to provides a good perspective on how people lived back then.
MP-1708-TRASH.indd 21 6/21/17 5:22 AM

• SURVIVAL •
THIRST
NO MORE
With hard work and some knowledge,
a water supply might be closer than
you think
By Dana Benner
MP-1708-WATER.indd 22 6/21/17 5:49 AM

MP-1708-WATER.indd 23 6/21/17 5:49 AM

A
Digging a well by hand mericans are quite a lucky bunch. Often, Hand-Digging History
can be difficult and we take our unlimited access to safe People have been hand-digging wells for
exhausting work. Depend-
drinking water for granted. eons. Well remains have been found in Europe
ing upon your relation-
ship with neighbors and Let’s turn the tables. Suppose you suddenly that date back to the Copper, Bronze and Iron
nearby friends, you might lose or have limited access to drinking water. Ages. These are difficult to find because many
want to consider enlisting Of course, preppers have stockpiled water for were just simple unreinforced holes. In the
their help and then shar-
such an emergency, but how long will that early days of American colonization, every
ing access to the fruits of
your labor. supply last? Eventually, you’ll need more in farm had a well, many of which were hand-
order to survive. dug. Fortunately, many of these were designed
I find it difficult to believe that, despite the to withstand the tests of time, and can still be
number of wells in my area, few people know located and researched today.
about hand-digging a well. There are plenty of
drilling operations that require equipment, but Location is Everything
the method I’ll outline here requires no heavy Digging a hole doesn’t automatically
equipment; just picks, shovels and muscle. yield water. You must dig where you believe
To write this piece, I combined my you’ll discover water. Study the topography
knowledge of hand-digging sump pits, the before digging.
history of the first settlers to this area and Water flows downhill. I found evidence of
the work being done by non-government this while visiting Arizona. I was on the Verde
organizations (NGOs) worldwide. Hopefully, Canyon Railroad traveling through Verde
the information I present here will make a Canyon, which is a land of sand and rock.
difference should you find yourself in dire While the high ground was rocky and dry,
need of water. the Verde River at the bottom of the canyon
MP-1708-WATER.indd 24 6/21/17 5:49 AM

[WATER]
(right) This old hand-dug
well’s stone-lined walls
have withstood the tests
of time.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TANYA KRAJCIK,
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE DEPARTMENT
OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
(below) Boulders will make

it difficult to dig deep
enough to reach water. In
this case, consider digging
elsewhere.
“Well remains have been found in Europe that

date back to the Copper, Bronze and Iron Ages.”
MP-1708-WATER.indd 25 6/21/17 5:49 AM

[WATER]
“Often, we take
our access to safe
drinking water for
granted.”
supported a small willow and cottonwood

forest. This gave me the idea to look for
the types of plants that require a good
water supply.
I tested the idea while hiking the canyons
of Sedona, Arizona. From above a canyon, I
spotted a small willow and cottonwood cluster.
Surface water wasn’t visible, which meant the
trees were surviving on groundwater. I have no
idea how deep the water was, but if necessary I
would try to dig a well in such a place.
In the Northeast where I live, plenty of
areas appear dry in the summer, but in the
spring, they practically become aquatic
from rain and melting snow. Often, brooks
and streams are there one minute and
then suddenly disappear. Standing water
indicates that the water table below it is full
or almost full. As the table drops, surface
water is sucked down to replenish it, which
explains why a disappearing brook or stream
went underground. These areas are worth
investigating as potential well locations.
Dousing, which uses a forked stick to locate
water, has been practiced for ages. Of course,
(left) The cap on this well

helps keep the water from
being contaminated by
surface-water runoff. The
stone wall provides a mea-
sure of safety for people
and animals.
PHOTO COURTESY OF TANYA KRAJCIK,
STATE OF NEW HAMPSHIRE DEPARTMENT
OF CULTURAL RESOURCES
MP-1708-WATER.indd 26 6/21/17 5:49 AM

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there are doubters. Does it really work? I can’t say, you’ve expended energy for nothing.
but if I face a situation in which finding a spot to Certain times are better than others to dig
dig a well means life or death, I’m going to try it. a well. The obvious good time is when you’ve
run out of water, but the best time is when you
Tap the Source have water reserves. In other words, you’ve
Before you start digging, examine the soil scouted and know a spot and can afford to
composition. Is it mainly sand, gravel and clay, wait out ideal conditions just before the rainy
or is it full of rocks and boulders? If there are season or spring snowmelt. You don’t want the
numerous large boulders, try to find another soil too dry, or the hole could collapse; too wet,
Once your water supply
area. Overly sandy soils are out, too, because and the same thing can happen. Even worse, it
runs dry, have a backup they can lead to the well collapsing. could fill with water while you’re in the hole.
plan, if possible, in the Once you’ve decided to dig for water, how Even in ideal conditions, cave-ins are
form of a well. It could do you go about it? Remember: we’re in an possible. To help prevent this, the sides of the
save your life. Also, have a
way to purify the water if
emergency here. You must secure water for hole must be reinforced. Before you dig, gather
you’re unsure whether it’s your family using picks, shovels and other as many boards as you can (longer is better).
safe to drink. hand tools. If you succeed, all is well. If not, When possible, special concrete sleeves can be
MP-1708-WATER.indd 28 6/21/17 5:49 AM

[WATER]
“Hand-dug wells
tend to be shallow,
about 5 to 65 feet
deep.”
placed in the hole, and additional sleeves can
be added to prevent cave-ins as you dig deeper.
However, in an emergency, it’s unlikely you’ll
have access to concrete accessories, so boards

are your best bet. Metal or plastic culverts are
another possibility. If available, they will work
better than boards and can be left in the hole
to act as the liner.
Measure an area at least 5 feet in diameter.
Using your shovel and pick, start digging
evenly around the entire diameter. After a
couple of feet, start lining the hole with the
boards, inserting them vertically (or place the
first length of culvert). Make sure to fit the
Things to Consider
boards closely. Use cross members to hold • Water runs downhill, so look for the lowest point; water will gather there.
the boards tight against the sides of the hole. • Search for water-loving plants/trees, such as willows and cottonwoods.
Continuously hammer the boards down as you • Any broad-leafed plant found in an otherwise dry location is a good indication
dig deeper. All of this, although very time- that there is ground water.
consuming, helps protect you from cave-ins. • Streams that suddenly disappear or areas that are really wet during the spring
Hand-dug wells tend to be shallow, about MP-1604-Tandy
but then dry up inLeather 2/10/16
the summer 2:51
indicate PM Page
potential 1
groundwater.
5 to 65 feet deep. This requires a lot of work,
and expends energy and calories you probably
can’t afford to lose. You must consider the
All the supplies a

risks versus rewards. One option is to assemble
with neighbors to share the work and the
reward. Of course, this option depends upon
your relationship with potential partners and
how you could work out the host of variables
leather craftsman
associated with shared access and usage.
This is common sense, but worth
mentioning: Always have a reliable way out
would need
of the hole. If you hit water, the hole could fill
up fast. Keep a ladder or other means to get
out nearby.
If you’re using a metal or plastic culvert, you
already have the material to line the well hole.
If not, use bricks or stones to line the sides of
the well. This will help stabilize the well and
prevent cave-ins later.
Once the well is established, back-fill the
gap between your liner and the hole (if there
is a gap) using crushed stone, gravel or small
rocks. This will keep sediment out of the
well water. Cap your well to keep debris from
contaminating the water.
Last Resort
In emergencies, a functioning well might be
your only choice for potable water. However,
think it through before tackling this endeavor.
Are you going to stay in one place, or are you
going to be moving? Water is precious, so try to
conceal and defend it. MP
SOURCES
• Water Dowsing: usgs.gov
LEATHER tandyleather.com
• Hand-Dug Wells: wateraid.org
MP-1708-WATER.indd 29 6/21/17 5:49 AM

• HUNTING/SHOOTING •
Horizontal
BOWHUNTING
5 TIPS FOR BUYING YOUR FIRST
CROSSBOW By Al Raychard
MP-1708-CROSSBOW.indd 30 6/21/17 2:53 AM


I
got into hunting with a crossbow by accident—
literally. Several years ago, while getting my
winter firewood supply, I tripped over a stump.
Tumbling to the ground, I landed on my right
shoulder and felt a sharp pain on impact.
Long story short, a quick hospital visit revealed
nothing was broken, but I was told my arm and
shoulder would be sore to move and use for a while.
I was advised to give it a rest for a week or so. With
the archery-deer opener just a week away, and after
investing several weeks of pre-season scouting,
hanging stands and blinds, I wasn’t about to
sacrifice my favorite hunting season. Fortunately, a
friend of mine was leaving town on business for the
entire month, and he suggested I give his crossbow
a try. I gratefully accepted.
During the next few days, I spent every
opportunity getting familiar with the crossbow’s
feel, mechanics and capabilities. It quickly
became apparent that crossbows have their
limitations, and are somewhat awkward and
cumbersome to carry and shoot. Despite those
shortcomings, what impressed me most was
(above) Reverse-draw crossbows are a good choice when hunting from blinds and other that unlike a vertical bow that can take years to
tight quarters due to their narrow axle-to-axle width. (below) Shooting rails on elevated master, once sighted-in, a crossbow takes little
stands offer a convenient place to rest a crossbow while sitting and shooting, and they time to use proficiently and is an extremely
help increase accuracy. PHOTOS BY AL RAYCHARD
accurate hunting tool. It was also fun to shoot,
and I knew whether I was successful or not
during the coming season, I was going to own one.
Opening day promised to dawn crisp and clear
that year, and as the October sun started to clear
the treetops, illuminating the foliage in fall colors,
I was sitting in a climbing treestand 15 feet above
the forest floor overlooking a well-used deer run
MP-1708-CROSSBOW.CX.indd 32 6/27/17 4:12 AM

[CROSSBOW]
and cornfield. Originally, I’d planned to hunt
another location, but by luck, a few days earlier I “Chances are good that most
found a trail with fresh sign indicating deer were
visiting the field regularly, using the trail as a of us test-drive a vehicle before
primary travel route to and from their beds. It was
a prime location and too hot to pass up.
we buy. That should apply when
Less than 40 minutes after getting positioned,
two does, accompanied by a spike-horn buck,
shopping for a crossbow.”
were working along the field edge and heading for
the trail below me. The sun was fully up by then, since purchased multiple crossbows and now
and the trio seemed in a hurry, as if late getting understand the process more clearly. Perhaps
into the safety of the woods. At a slow trot, they you’re interested in purchasing your first
entered the tree line, and the lead doe continued crossbow. If so, there are a few considerations to
moving. The second doe and buck stopped 25 ensure you get the right model.
yards away and looked back as if making sure
nothing was in pursuit, which provided a high-
percentage broadside shot. I raised the crossbow,
put the 25-yard crosshair behind the buck’s near
1 CHOOSING A STYLE
shoulder and pulled the trigger. Crossbows are available in three limb
At 350 fps, it doesn’t take a crossbow arrow configurations. All work extremely well, and
(also called a bolt) long to travel 25 yards, and with all things considered, they release bolts
I heard rather than saw the arrow hit home. at similar speeds and have similar range
As the buck bolted, the doe took off for parts limitations. Deciding which one to purchase
unknown, and a few minutes later, I descended to is best addressed in part by how the bow will
the ground. I found and followed the blood trail be used. For target shooting, it makes little
leading to my winter’s meat less than 30 yards difference, but it can make a big difference if
down the trail. hunting is your main intent.
Because they’ve proven so efficient and With fewer moving parts—basically a bow
user-friendly, crossbows have become my mounted on a stock equipped with a trigger
weapon of choice whenever archery hunting mechanism—recurve models are generally
for deer and other big game. When it came to quieter and easier to maintain. Strings can be TenPoint Carbon
Phantom RCX
purchasing my own the very next season, easily changed in the field, if necessary, and are
I had several questions that less noisy and generally lighter in PHOTO COURTESY OF TEN-
needed answers. I’ve weight than compound POINT CROSSBOWS

(below) Compound cross- models. To achieve desired arrow speeds, power stroke for an increased speed-to-draw-
bows work with a system recurve crossbows have longer stocks and weight ratio. In other words, a 150-pound
of cables and cams, which
provide the necessary
wider limbs. For this reason, recurve crossbows reverse-draw bow can release an arrow at
velocity in a relatively may not be the best choice when hunting in the same speed as a 165-pound conventional
short power stroke. tight quarters such as blinds or thick, brushy crossbow. Reverse-draw crossbows also have a
terrain. They also require more physical effort much narrower axle-to-axle width, some less
PHOTO BY AL RAYCHARD
to cock all the way to the trigger mechanism than 10 inches when drawn. This makes them
because they don’t have let-off. excellent choices for tight hunting situations
Compound crossbows work with a system of where wider bows may present problems.
(opposite) Crossbows are cams and cables. Basically, during the cocking
available in various
process, these cams “turn over” (or let-off),
designs. Pick the one
that best suits your
hunting situation.
simplifying the cocking process. When fired, the
cams reengage to increase arrow speed. Because
2 ONE THAT FITS
of let-off, compound crossbows are easier Not only should a crossbow fit your hunting
PHOTO COURTESY OF TENPOINT to cock and are more compact, with shorter style, but it should also feel comfortable when
CROSSBOWS
stocks and narrower limbs, yet they deliver the carried and shot. Like a firearm, crossbows are
same arrow speeds as a recurve bow of equal built on a rifle-like stock and should have a
draw weight. Although somewhat noisier than comfortable length of pull, which speeds sight
recurve models because of the cam action, at and target acquisition, and promotes control
today’s velocities and within recommended and consistent accuracy. If finding a crossbow
range, the noise level is inconsequential. Being that fits proves challenging, some models
shorter and narrower, compound crossbows are offer an adjustable forearm, cheek piece and
a good choice for all-around hunting. buttstock for personal comfort.
Reverse-draw crossbows are relatively new.
The riser sits closer to the shooter, improving
the crossbow’s balance and stability—both
important factors in hunting situations. The
3 SHOOT BEFORE YOU BUY
reverse-draw technology also provides a longer Chances are good that most of us test-drive
a vehicle before we buy. That should apply
“… a quick hospital visit

when shopping for a crossbow. Most retailers
specializing in archery and other outdoor gear
revealed nothing was broken, have an indoor or outdoor range where bows
can be handled and shot prior to purchase. Take
but I was told my arm and advantage of it, because a great deal can be
learned in a hurry about how well a crossbow
shoulder would be sore to fits, its weight and balance, arrow speed, noise
level and vibration, recoil and cocking effort—
move and use for a while.” all important factors.

[CROSSBOW]
STANDOUT CROSSBOWS
The Carbon Phantom RCX from TenPoint is a reverse-draw crossbow. Measuring just a bullpup stock measuring 35 inches long,
Crossbow Technologies exemplifies a 10 inches from axle to axle when cocked and 30 inches wide (when cocked), and has
modern compound crossbow. Weighing 6.9 34 inches long, the Nitro RDX is one of the an ambidextrous cheek piece. Weighing
pounds, the 160-pound (draw weight) bow market’s most compact crossbows, and it has just 5.7 pounds, the Bulldog’s Powerload
measures just 13 inches from axle to axle an adjustable cheek- and butt-plate. With a limbs have a 260-pound draw weight
when cocked, has a 16-inch power stroke, draw weight of 165 pounds, the Nitro releases and a 13.5-inch power stroke that release
and releases bolts at speeds up to 385 fps. bolts at speeds up to 385 fps, and comes bolts at speeds up to 380 fps. The Matrix
The stock comes with an adjustable cheek- as a package with scope, quiver, cocking Bulldog 380 comes in a package that
and butt-plate for a custom fit. And, it’s mechanism and six carbon bolts. For more includes a scope, five-arrow quiver, four
sold as a package with bow, scope, quiver, information, visit tenpointcrossbows.com. carbon bolts, four 150-grain field points and
cocking mechanism and six carbon bolts. The Matrix Bulldog 380 from Excalibur rope-cocking aid. For more information, visit
The Carbon Nitro RDX, also from TenPoint, Crossbows is a recurve crossbow built on excaliburcrossbow.com.

[CROSSBOW]
“… the second doe and buck stopped 25 yards away and

looked back as if making sure nothing was in pursuit,
which provided a high-percentage broadside shot.”
Keep in mind that an ultra-lightweight invest in a package. Most crossbow packages
crossbow with lots of recoil or vibration, or come complete with the bow and a scope
one that’s too heavy, can be burdensome and specifically designed for crossbows with
difficult to control and will affect accuracy. multiple illuminated crosshairs for 20- to 60-
When considering speed, a crossbow shooting yard shooting, depending upon the bow. They
a bolt at 250 fps will do the job on deer-sized also often include a quiver, bolts matched in
(or even larger) game efficiently, but a bolt length and weight to the bow, and field points
traveling at 350 fps will not only hit harder, for practicing.
it will have a flatter trajectory, which makes Buying a package is also more affordable, but
judging distance less important. Plus, if you more importantly, it takes all the guesswork out
intend to hunt elk or moose, a hard-hitting of buying accessories appropriate for a given
crossbow will perform best. bow. This ensures the first-time, inexperienced
Equally important is the trigger pull. Most buyer is investing in a package that will
top-brand crossbows are equipped with premium function safely and properly.
trigger mechanisms with the proper amount of
creep and pressure required—about 3 pounds—to
release the arrow safely. Keep in mind that a hair
trigger or one with no creep can be dangerous;
5 GO SHOPPING!
while a trigger with too much creep or set too Buying a crossbow isn’t that difficult. As
heavy is difficult to squeeze smoothly, which can you would a rifle or any tool, conduct some
When hunting in tight cause accuracy to suffer. research on the makes and models available.
quarters and dense cover, Develop an interest in, say, two or three specific
4 BUY A PACKAGE
a compact crossbow makes, then head to a crossbow dealer and
with a narrow overall
limb width is often the
test them out to find one that fits and shoots
best choice. the way you want it to. Also, be sure to check
Crossbows can be purchased bare bones, but out the sidebar, “Standout Crossbows,” (pg. 35),
PHOTO BY AL RAYCHARD from lessons I learned early, it’s far better to which lists a few of the market’s top models. MP

MP_1708_37 6/16/17 3:09 AM Page 37
MP-1708-FREEZER.indd 38 6/21/17 3:57 AM

Ultimate
PROVIDER
5 WAYS TO OBTAIN FOOD WITH-
OUT GROCERY SHOPPING
By Dana Benner
L
earning to live on what Mother
Nature provides is one of the most
important self-sustaining lessons
one can learn. I’m not talking about
eating a “wild,” gathered meal here and
there between boxed dinners. No, I’m
talking about truly sustaining your family
on essentially a full-time basis by hunting,
fishing, foraging and gardening.
If you’re willing to work hard, you can
obtain most of your own food without
making continual trips to the grocery store.
Practice the following steps, and you’ll
become the ultimate provider.

1 HUNTING
New Hampshire winters are often long
and cold. Sometimes we even get snowed
in. I must put away as much meat as I can,
when I can. Hunting can be expensive—fuel,
ammunition and hunting licenses/permits—
so I also must make the most of my money.
If you’re truly looking to eat solely wild game
meat, look to bag as much game as you can
for as little money as possible.
I hunt mainly in New Hampshire and
Vermont and obtain annual licenses for both.
I also purchase my federal waterfowl permit
and permits required for New Hampshire and
Vermont. This is money well spent, because
odds are that I’ll harvest ducks and geese in
both states.
I also purchase turkey permits for both
states. Vermont allows two turkeys in spring
and one in fall; New Hampshire allows one
in spring and one in fall. If everything aligns,
I can put five turkeys in the freezer alongside
the waterfowl, small game and upland birds
I harvest.
Large game, such as deer and bear,
(above ) When hunting for food, pause periodically. You’ll often spot game you’d oth-
are always desirable, but require much
erwise spook or walk right past. (below) When hunting, be prepared for something to
happen quickly. You may not get another opportunity. PHOTOS BY DANA BENNER more work. But, one deer, along with the

[ULTIMATE PROVIDER]
“… if you’re willing to work hard, you can obtain

most of your own food without making continual
trips to the grocery store.”
aforementioned game, will feed my family

through winter. A bear would be an added
bonus. Perhaps you have even larger game
animals, such as elk and/or moose, to target
where you live. One of either species will
produce hundreds of pounds of meat.
2 FISHING
As soon as the ice breaks in spring and the
water opens, I go fishing. Just like hunting,
I fish for food. That means I keep all legal
fish I catch (abiding by limits, of course).
Fishing licenses are generally cheaper than
hunting licenses, so if you don’t hunt, fishing
is the best way to put protein on the table
and in the freezer. I purchase freshwater-
fishing licenses in both Vermont and New
Hampshire, as well as a saltwater-fishing
license for New Hampshire. The saltwater
license allows me to fish the New Hampshire
coast and the coastal waters of Maine
and Massachusetts.
It’s easy to overspend on fishing
equipment, so I’ve learned to simplify. Heck,
some days I can catch fish just using a basic
rod equipped with hook and worm. On other
days, it may take spoons or in-line spinners
to land a catch. These lures are simple, and
they work for both freshwater and saltwater
species. Unless you’re a tournament angler
after a record bass or walleye (I’m not) you
don’t need to spend a lot on gear. Keep costs
down and use what works. Remember, the A chance fishing trip to Louisiana provided the opportunity to land this red drum.
goal is to put food in the freezer. PHOTO BY DANA BENNER

“If you locate a
large berry patch
while out hunt-
ing ... go back with
your family to
involve them in
your food-gather-
ing efforts.”
3 FORAGING
Very rarely do I leave the woods and fields
without bringing something home with me.
Like those who came before me, I seize every
opportunity to gather food. While hunting
spring turkeys, I often find fiddleheads and
other available wild food. Fiddleheads are the
young shoots of ferns (carry an identification
guide) and are great as a side dish. As the
warm weather progresses, I often come home
with assorted wild berries, which I find while
hiking into my favorite Vermont trout stream
or beaver pond.
In fall, I harvest wild apples and grapes,
which are great for sauces, jams and jellies. I
also harvest acorns, walnuts and beechnuts.
Everything gathered becomes part of our food
supply. I always carry large, resealable bags in
my pack so I can bring this bounty home.
If you locate a large berry patch while out
hunting or fishing, go back with your family to
involve them in your food-gathering efforts.
Always carry a sidearm (if legal), because bears
Though small, woodcock add to the food stock.
eat berries, too. In Vermont, New Hampshire
PHOTO BY DANA BENNER
and many other states, there are plenty of
public lands where you can harvest wild foods
FIREARMS FOR HUNTING free of charge.
My father always advised purchasing the best tools I could afford. My hunting
firearms are tools, and the money spent on good firearms will always repay itself. 4 GARDENING
With that said, I have very few firearms, but each one has a purpose.
As soon as the weather warms up, I prepare
SHOTGUN my garden. A garden can be as large or small
I own a Mossberg Model 500 12-gauge, pump-action shotgun. Mossberg has as you like. You don’t even need land to start
been producing firearms for years, and the Model 500 exemplifies the solid one. Urbanites easily grow their own food in
performance the company is known for. I use it for turkeys, waterfowl, upland birds
containers. Many urban communities even
and, in areas where rifles aren’t allowed, for bear and deer hunting. I’ve had this
have large community gardens where you can
shotgun for 30 years, and it hasn’t failed me.
get space to grow your own food. There are
RIFLES also numerous co-ops where you can exchange
My bear and deer rifle is a Henry lever-action .30-30 Winchester. The .30-30 labor for fresh produce.
has claimed more deer than any other round. I can count on my Henry to put meat The key to gardening is to grow vegetables
in the freezer if presented with the opportunity. It recoils lightly compared to other that do well in your area, have large yields and
popular deer rounds, such as the acclaimed .30-06 Springfield. store well, and your family will eat. Refer to
I also have a Marlin Model 60 .22, which I use for small-game hunting. Nothing the planting information on the back of seed
is pretty about this rifle, but it performs well when I’m out roving for little critters.
packets prior to purchasing them.
Marlin .22s are perhaps the most popular rimfire rifle, most featuring a semi-
I stick to beans, squash, tomatoes and
automatic action perfect for firing multiple shots repeatedly when needed.
potatoes. These produce food my family eats,

[ULTIMATE PROVIDER]
plus they store well. Tomatoes can be eaten as

is, or they can be processed and then stored in
the freezer for later use. Beans always produce FOOD STORAGE
high yields, and dried beans store for a very Both meat and
long time. Squash and pumpkins can be dried vegetables can be
or cooked and then frozen. Potatoes are a stored in various ways,
including freezing,
staple, and they too can be stored for a long
drying and smoking.
time (see sidebar, “Food Storage” on the right).
Each method has
merits and drawbacks.
5 BARTERING
PHOTO BY DANA BENNER

FREEZING
Today, freezing is
Bartering is perhaps one of the oldest the most common
methods to obtain things you need. Basically, food-storage method.
it’s trading an item or your services for The trick is to realize
that most meats must
something else. Over the years, I’ve worked on
be used within one
a lobster boat, trading my services in exchange
year, so it’s necessary
for a portion of the catch. I have exchanged to rotate your stock. Label and date each package. Meat can be packaged and
labor with a local farmer for eggs and a few frozen as is, but vegetables should be parboiled prior to freezing.
butchered chickens. I have traded salmon
fillets for venison steaks. I’ve even traded berry DRYING
pies for ammunition, which I then traded for Peas and beans that you want to dry should be left on the plant until the shells
fishing time on a boat, securing fish for the are dry and brown. When you can hear the peas or beans rattling inside their shells,
freezer. The trick to bartering is not to sell open them up and spread the seeds on a paper towel or newspaper and allow
them to dry thoroughly. Once dry, store them in an airtight container. Squash and
yourself short. Make fair deals/exchanges.
pumpkins can be dried by slicing and then hanging the slices. The seeds are dried
the same way as peas and beans.
Are You a Provider?
Living this lifestyle requires work, and it SMOKING
isn’t for everyone. If you’re willing to invest the This is the most time-consuming and labor-intensive method. It’s the way people
time and effort, it can be rewarding. Plus, you processed meat and fish prior to refrigeration. This method takes practice, but once
get the satisfaction of knowing how and where you learn the ropes, you can turn out some fine-tasting meat products that will last
your food was obtained. That’s an aspect for a time unrefrigerated.
grocery stores don’t offer. MP
Never pass by a food

source like these deli-
cious blueberries.
PHOTO BY THINKSTOCK
MP-1708-FREEZER.CX.indd 43 6/27/17 4:23 AM

• BUSHCRAFT •
MP-1708-TURTLE.indd 44 6/21/17 5:26 AM

SETLINES FOR
TURTLES
HAUL IN GIANT SNAPPERS
WITH A $2 SETUP
By Jason Houser
A
lmost every body of water—ponds,
lakes, creeks, rivers, swamps and
ditches—potentially holds snapping
turtles. Since turtle traps can be
expensive (and illegal in some states), the next
best method—my preferred method even over
traps—is to catch snappers with setlines.
The materials needed for turtle “fishing”
won’t break the piggy bank and are easy to
find. To get started catching turtles, you’ll need
sharp fishing hooks, nylon cord, rubber boots
and a knife.
The Tackle
Hooks must be at least 3 ½ inches long with
at least a 1-inch gap. Make sure they’re sharp.
Even new hooks straight out of the package
should be sharpened before use. You want the
turtle to hook itself when it picks up the bait
to eat it. A dull hook won’t do the job. Hooks
can easily be recovered from inside the turtle’s
stomach when you’re butchering them. Make
sure to sharpen the hooks before using them
again. Also, from time to time, touch up the
hooks on your lines.
When choosing cord for the setline, look
for these two things: non-rotting nylon and
strength. I use braided-nylon twine, which
many people use to make trot lines. The roll
I currently use is of 73-pound test, and I paid
around $12 for a 1-pound spool (about 2,200
feet of cord). I set a lot of turtle lines each
summer. A spool this size is probably more
than most people would use in one summer.
Rubber boots are important when dealing
with turtles. Run a turtle line once without
wearing rubber boots, and you’ll understand

why. Sometimes you’ll have to walk through
deep water to reach the best set locations.
More times than not, you’ll end up in the
MP-1708-TURTLE.indd 45 6/21/17 5:27 AM

TIMING
AND
COMMON
SENSE
When going after
turtles, try to wait
until the second week Snapping turtles can grow large and boast an attitude. Never attempt to unhook a snapper, or your fingers could become
of July before you victims of its bone-crushing jaws. PHOTO BY JASON HOUSER
begin. Even though
turtles are moving
from May through “I’ve pulled in some exceptional catfish
September, they
won’t lay their eggs
throughout the years on turtle setlines.”
until July. Give turtles
enough time to lay
their eggs to ensure
water while hauling in a hooked turtle. I never liver, but as unpleasant as it might sound,
a healthy turtle
run my line without my Pursuit Stealth Cool other turtles do, so why not use them?
population for years
hunting boots by Muck Boots. Their Express Beef lung can be found at butcher shops for
to come.
Cool technology keeps my feet dry through all little or nothing. Most butchers will happily
If you catch a
of the water I encounter, and cool on hot days give you all you want. Beef lung floats, and I
small turtle, you can
when other boots make your feet sweat. believe that makes it easier for turtles to find.
practice catch and
A knife is a valuable tool on the line, too. A When using fish for bait, I only use small
release. Simply cut
knife can be used to cut bait and to cut the pieces of the head. The rest of the fish is
the cord above the
nylon cord after you catch a turtle. Cut the too soft, and turtles can yank it off without
leader and free the
line a couple of feet above the turtle’s being hooked.
turtle. The hook will
mouth to keep your hand out of reach of its
eventually dissolve,
bone-crushing jaws. As I mentioned earlier, Baiting the Hook
and the turtle will be
the hook can be recovered during Throughout the years, I’ve found that I catch
fine. Don’t attempt
the butchering process. more turtles on fresh bait than I do with rotten
to unhook a turtle.
meat. Refrigerate your bait until you’re ready
A leader is much
Great Bait to use it. When you start making your sets,
cheaper than doctor
I’ve had good luck with several different bait take only the amount of bait you need and
bills when a turtle
types. Fish heads, beef lung, chicken, deer and leave the rest at home. On especially hot days,
grabs a finger or two.
even turtle livers are all tough baits that’ll stay store your bait in a cooler with a few cubes of
Trust me, I’m writing
on a hook. ice while you’re working the line. Also, after
from experience.
When cleaning out my deep freezer to bait sits in the water for two or three days,
prepare for the upcoming deer season, I remove it and replace it with fresh bait.
usually find a few packages of deer liver. Next When using liver and lung, each person
summer, that deer liver will account for many has their preferred method of attaching it to
of my turtles. That’s just fine with me; I’ll eat the hook. Practice until you find what works
turtle over liver any day. for you. Regardless, a walnut-sized piece of
Later in the season, once I start butchering bait should cover the bend and point of the
turtles, I retain their livers. I do not eat turtle hook. It’s not necessary to cover the shank.
MP-1708-TURTLE.indd 46 6/21/17 5:27 AM

[TURTLE]
It’s important, though, to not leave any loose
pieces of bait dangling. A snapper can easily
steal the bait and avoid the hook by pulling on
loose bait ends.
Set Locations
As you fish for turtles, you’ll begin to notice
where they prefer to live. I’ve discovered that
turtles choose calm water over rough water.
Slow-moving creeks and rivers hold a lot of
turtles. Look for mud bottoms combined with
slow-moving water.
Big turtles prefer deep water edges where
they hunt for food. You won’t catch as many
small turtles out there, but you’ll still catch a
few. Also, because there aren’t as many small
turtles on the deep edges, you’ll find that you
have fewer bait-stripped hooks. Small turtles
prefer to stay close to thick, weedy cover in
the shallows.
Many ponds and lakes have weeds in the
shallow water along the shore. If possible,
place your bait in the open water on the inside
edge of the weeds.
I’ve caught more turtles on points than on
any other part of the water. Snappers swim
along bank edges and around the point,
hugging close to the bank at the point’s tip.
Never walk by the tip of a point without
wetting a line.

(right) Catfish are a bonus species that can
be caught on a turtle setline. (below, left)
Anchor your setline to a nearby tree so the
turtle doesn’t take off with your bait and
line. PHOTO BY JASON HOUSER (below, right) When
using fish as turtle bait, use the head only,
because the rest of the fish is too soft.
PHOTO BY JASON HOUSER
MP-1708-TURTLE.indd 47 6/21/17 5:27 AM

CHECK
YOUR
LINES
DAILY
Lines must be
checked daily.
Sometimes I check
my lines a couple of
times per day when I
have the time. When
I first started going
after turtles more
than two decades
ago, I didn’t check my
lines but once a day.
Then, one day I set a
line at a small farm
pond. By the time
I’d walked halfway
around the 1-acre
pond, I noticed my
first set had a turtle.
Only 10 minutes had
passed since I’d put Don’t overlook points. Turtles often hug the bank as they travel around points. These can be killer setline locations.
the line in the water. PHOTO BY JASON HOUSER
Turtles are very

active in warm
weather. I’ve found “Using setlines for turtles is an excit-
that I catch more
turtles now that I
ing and successful way to get some
check my lines more
often throughout the
great-tasting meat.”
day. The sooner I can
The Setup just never know what might be at the other
get a turtle out and
Setting lines is easy. Make sure all knots are end; it could be a 5- or a 30-pound turtle.
remake my set, the
tight, and that the nylon cord you’re using However, it’s not always a turtle at the other
sooner I can catch
isn’t frayed. end. I’ve pulled in some exceptional catfish
another turtle.
When setting a short line, simply give the throughout the years on turtle setlines.
Another reason
line a toss, or drop it where you want. Setting
to check your lines
a long line is quite simple, too. With your setup One Big Catch
daily is to re-bait
baited, loop the cord loosely in your left hand. A word of caution: it’s possible for turtles
your hooks. Because
Take the looped cord in your left hand and, to drown. This happens when a snapper gets
of those pesky little
with your right hand, grab it about 18 inches the cord wrapped around debris underwater
snappers and painted
above the bait. Keeping the cord looped in your and cannot get its head to the surface. The
turtles, you’ll have
left hand, use your right hand to toss it where only way to avoid this is by setting your lines
plenty of bare hooks.
you want it. If everything works properly, the in water free of objects that could cause
Un-baited hooks
cord in your left hand should smoothly peel entanglement. If using a shorter line will help
don’t catch turtles.
out without tangling. prevent the turtle from getting tangled, use it.
Tie the cord to an anchor; a live tree works Take your time when pulling a turtle in.
well. Tying the cord to a tree limb works A turtle can easily become tangled up in the
somewhat like a fishing pole. It will bend brush. Even though you’re using a cord with
without breaking until you’re able to land high-test poundage, turtles are very aggressive
your catch. Don’t use a dead tree or limb. A and could easily fray it. If you need to get in the
strong turtle could easily break water to help retrieve your turtle, do it. After
off the weak anchor. If you’re all, you should be wearing rubber boots.
concerned with your catch

being stolen, anchor your cord Turtle for Dinner, Anyone?
underwater to a bush or some Using setlines for turtles is an exciting and
other sturdy object. When successful way to get some great-tasting meat.
checking your lines, it feels For less than $2 apiece, you can make setlines
good to see your cord bouncing all day long. Can you think of a better way to
violently back and forth. You spend the summer? MP
MP-1708-TURTLE.CX2.indd 48 6/27/17 4:27 AM

[TURTLE]
BUYER’S GUIDE:
If the Boot Fits
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MP-1708-TURTLE.CX2.indd 49 6/27/17 4:27 AM

• GENERAL •
MP-1708-WALL.indd 50 6/21/17 5:38 AM

SET IN
STONE
PHOTO BY CLAY NEWCOMB
A WELL-BUILT GABION WALL IS TIMELESS

AND CAN WITHSTAND EARTH’S
NATURAL FORCES
By Clay Newcomb
MP-1708-WALL.indd 51 6/21/17 5:38 AM

“Keep the segments of the wall small so the
baskets maintain a rigid structure to contain
the rocks.”
I
n the grand scheme of human history, many other wall types. They’re cheaper than
using terraces to level sloped land is a concrete landscape-block walls, and they’re
technology comparable to harnessing the cheaper than a dry-stack stone wall, if the
power of fire. Much of the earth’s surface stone is purchased at retail price.
is sloped, making it difficult to use. The more Gathering stone yourself is probably the
populated the earth has become, the more cheapest wall-building method. Railroad-tie
(below, left) Use a pair of humans have had to make use of the land walls are cheap, but they’re labor-intensive
bolt cutters to cut the wire they’ve got. and only have a 20-year lifespan. However, in
into the sections you’ll
Building a retaining wall to reduce a slope building a gabion, you don’t have to lift heavy
need to create appropri-
ately sized baskets. is an ancient skill. You’ll need to understand blocks, rocks or timbers by hand—with the
some basic physics, drainage and soil- right equipment. If built correctly, a gabion
(below, right) Use galvanized movement patterns to build a wall that will wall will last a lifetime. Most of the hand-labor
wire to build topless and
last a lifetime. You’ll also need to become is in constructing the wire baskets. A tractor
bottomless wire baskets.
Don’t be afraid to use a familiar with the materials and building with a bucket loader is important for easily
lot. The baskets get their structures used to create the unique, strong putting the rocks into the baskets.
strength from the wire. and beautiful gabion walls we’ll discuss in
this article. Is a Gabion Wall Right for You?
(opposite) You don’t have
to build the baskets in I chose to build gabion walls around my
place. You can build them What’s a Gabion? home based upon three considerations:
where it’s comfortable, Gabions are rock-filled wire baskets. The aesthetics, finances and ease of construction.
then set them in place
word “gabion” (root gabbione) is an Italian Gabion walls have a unique and complex
when finished.
word meaning “big cage.” In my opinion, visual appeal. The manmade-grid look of
PHOTOS BY CLAY NEWCOMB they’re faster to build and less laborious than the wire contrasts with the natural shapes
MP-1708-WALL.CX.indd 52 6/27/17 4:32 AM

[SET IN STONE]
MP-1708-WALL.indd 53 6/21/17 5:38 AM

“Many road
departments use
gabion walls along
interstates and
roadways.”
of the rock, creating a modern, yet rustic

look. A gabion wall at your home will set
you apart because they aren’t often used in
residential applications. However, I find them
very practical and easier to build than many
alternatives. The materials are readily available
and inexpensive.
I’ve built multiple types of retaining
walls using all types of materials, including
gabions, natural stone, railroad ties and
concrete landscape blocks. In the Ozarks of
Arkansas, where I live, retaining walls are
very common. I spent eight years in the
professional landscaping business, and one of
my main duties was building retaining walls.
I’ve had the experience of seeing walls I’ve
(above) Be sure to level the ground beneath the walls. There’s no need for a footing or to built maintain their integrity for more than a
place the base of the wall underground. (below) The author uses tee posts as deadmen.
decade. Future decades will continue to tell
These support structures are both in the wall and in the bank. They should be wired
securely to the baskets. They also keep the baskets in place when you’re filling them my story, pass or fail, in Ozark wall building.
with rocks. PHOTOS BY CLAY NEWCOMB
The Beefier, the Better
I’m amazed by how many walls don’t last. In
my opinion, you can’t “overbuild” a retaining
wall. The static pressure exerted by soil on
walls over long periods of time is amazingly
strong and difficult to understand. Soil moves,
gravity pulls everything downward, and the
weight and the earth’s strength pushing on a
wall is significant, even if the wall is only a few
feet tall. It’s even more significant if the wall is
3 to 5 feet tall.
If not done correctly, a wall will slope
forward within a few years and be face-first
on the ground within a few decades. However,
gabion walls are unique and completely
porous, allowing water to freely flow through,
which diminishes the pressure on the wall.
Water-logged soil is extremely heavy, and
by giving the water an exit path, pressure
is released. No drains are needed on gabion
walls; the wall is the drain.
Materials Needed
For my gabions, I chose 4x4-inch grid
livestock panel purchased from the local farm
store. These panels are 16 feet long and 4
feet tall, and are readily available across the
country. I paid approximately $30 per panel.
However, there are many options for types of
wire. Whatever you choose, it must be strong
enough to support its own weight and that of
the rocks. Choose your grid size based upon
the size of rocks you’ll be using. If you’ve got
big rocks, then you can have bigger grids. Wire
MP-1708-WALL.indd 54 6/21/17 5:38 AM

[SET IN STONE]
with bigger holes is usually cheaper. You’ll Constructing the Walls
need a pair of bolt cutters to cut the wire.
Secondly, you’ll need some heavy-duty
In my experience, this type of gabion is
adequate for walls less than 4 feet tall. I
Reasons
galvanized wire that won’t rust. The wire is personally wouldn’t build one any taller. to Build
a Gabion
very important because it holds the basket There’s no need for a foundation or for burying
together. Don’t skimp on wire; buy more than the base of the wall into the ground. Strength
you think you’ll need. You’ll also need some
good pliers, dykes or wire cutters. If you build
isn’t gained, because the wall isn’t rigid. A
critical action, however, is to create level Wall
a large wall, your hands will be worn out from surfaces on which to place the wire baskets.
all the cutting. I recommend spending an extra The top of the wall will only be as level as • Aesthetics
$10 on quality pliers. the ground underneath it. Use a string level, • Affordability
The third material needed is the rock. Every transit or even a long level. • Ease of construction
region of the country has local gravel and rock Building the baskets is simple. Measure
supplies readily available. I used oversized the wall dimensions and use a bolt cutter
river gravel native to the Ozarks, primarily to create the sides of the baskets. Then, use
because of its look and color. However, it would galvanized wire to join the sides. Put sections
have been easier and cheaper to use bigger, of livestock panel every 4 feet or so that run
chunkier rock. perpendicular to the face of the wall. These
Most regions of the country have quarries strengthen the wall.
that produce oversized gravel 4 to 6 inches in Another critical construction aspect is A quality tractor like this
diameter. Many road departments use gabion using tee posts as deadmen. In wall building, Kubota B26 will pay for
walls along interstates and roadways. They the term “deadman” refers to a horizontal itself through many years
of use in the time and
typically use the most inexpensive rock type, structure that goes back into the bank, holding
effort it saves.
so take note of the materials they use for your the wall and soil bank together. When building
own project. a dry-stack wall, you use long rocks that sink PHOTO BY CLAY NEWCOMB
THE RIGHT TRACTOR

Since I’ve owned my Kubota B26 tractor, many envious people lot more for it. A tractor pays for itself by the work that it does. If you’re
have quizzed me on its usefulness. I’ve now had it longer than 10 years, still renting or borrowing equipment for digging while owning a tractor,
and have never regretted purchasing it. Here are a couple things I’ve you’ve messed up.
learned. Four-wheel drive is a must for me, and can work circles around Thirdly, horsepower (HP) isn’t everything. This tractor is 26 HP and
two-wheel-drive tractors. has power to spare, granted this model is commercial grade. Lastly, fill
Secondly, not everybody needs a backhoe, but they’re very handy. I’d your tires 50-75% with non-freezable liquid. Most tire shops can do
spend the money and get one with a backhoe, even though you’ll pay a this for you. It gives the tractor stability and added traction.
MP-1708-WALL.indd 55 6/21/17 5:39 AM

(below) Using a tractor bucket, the author fills
the baskets with rocks. He poured in sections
about 6 to 8 inches deep and hand-fit the visi-
ble rocks into place.
(opposite) Dry-stack walls make beautiful and

functional retaining walls. If you can gather the
rock yourself, they’re the cheapest way to build
a wall. However, it takes some skill to make
them look beautiful like this one.
MP-1708-WALL.CX.indd 56 6/27/17 4:33 AM

[SET IN STONE]
back into the bank. For gabions, I use tee posts. smaller wall 2 feet high by 16 inches wide. My
I hammer in the tee posts, and then wire them larger wall is about 3 feet high and 20 inches
to the baskets. The tee posts are also held in wide. The taller the wall, the wider I like to
place by the gravel surrounding them. Place construct it.
a tee post about every 5 feet. In shorter walls,
you can hammer the tee post straight down in Add the Rocks
the center of the baskets and surround them Once the baskets are set, level and sturdy,
with gravel. These deadmen are critical to hold you can begin pouring in the rocks. The
the baskets in place when pouring in rocks. deadmen must be secured to the baskets,
Keep the segments of the wall small so the because they’ll be the only support (don’t
baskets maintain a rigid structure to contain backfill with dirt until the wall is complete).
the rocks. If you have a 16-foot wall, you’ll need If the baskets aren’t anchored, the weight of
to place a divider about every 4 feet. Different the rocks will push the baskets. Use a tractor
types of wire will require different spacing. (consider renting one if you don’t own one)
The idea is that the basket will have enough with a bucket to pour in the rocks. On my wall,
support to maintain its shape without bulging. I poured in sections of about 6 to 10 inches
I used sections of livestock panel to create the deep, then hand-fit the outer rocks so they
dividers. In between the dividers (every 2 feet), looked good. Of course, this takes time and is
I put a wire jumper to keep the middle sections optional. Once the baskets are filled with rocks,
from bulging. For dimensions, I made my you can backfill dirt behind the wall. Done! MP
Dry-Stack Stone Wall

I love dry-stack stone walls. They’re rustic, beautiful, traditional and functional. The most important thing is to
angle the wall back into the bank. With every level you build, simply place the stone about 1 to 2 inches back from
the edge below. When you’re done, the wall will angle backwards into the bank. Use longer, narrower rocks as
deadmen to strengthen the wall.
Place the narrow face of the rock out and the long section back into the bank. Additionally, stagger the joints in
the wall so they don’t align directly on top of each other. These three things will strengthen the wall.
The key to a beautiful dry-stack wall is keeping the joints symmetrical and small. Use the natural shape of the
rock to determine which hole to put it in. However, almost every rock will be imperfect and need trimming. I use
a masonry chisel and a Skilsaw with a diamond blade to manipulate the stone. Don’t make any cuts that will be
visible on the finished wall. Be careful, but you’ll have to use the Skilsaw creatively to cut and grind off parts of the
rocks to shape them for the wall.
MP-1708-WALL.CX.indd 57 6/27/17 4:33 AM

TREETOP
BUSHY
TAILS
GAMMO AIRGUNS ARE PUT TO
THE TEST
By Thomas C. Tabor
PHOTOS BY THOMAS C. TABOR
MP-1708-SQUIRREL.indd 58 6/21/17 4:13 AM


T
hose who participate in the annual didn’t fair all that well in the competition and
Ancient Squirrel Master Classic event are landed in fourth place. I hoped for redemption
Airguns given the chance to gain stature

and recognition within the shooting
this year.
community. If you’re lucky enough to prevail Off to Alabama

Airguns are believed
and walk away with the coveted Wooden The Squirrel Master Classic is hosted
to date as far back
as the 1500s in
Squirrel award, you’ve reached the pinnacle jointly by the Southern Sportsman Hunting
Europe. Lewis of accomplishment. Lodge and Gamo USA. It’s held annually in
and Clark even This fun-filled event advances our hunting the Alabama Black Belt Region about 20 miles
carried one on heritage through 4-H participation. It’s also west of Montgomery. The area is rich with gray
their expeditions a great way to test out Gamo air rifles under squirrels. In true Alabama fashion, hunters
while exploring the actual hunting conditions. face scattered timberland intermixed with food
American West. The plots for deer, wet swampy terrain—sometimes
Indians Lewis and The Event occupied by snakes—and red Alabama gumbo
Clark encountered
The Gamo Squirrel Master Classic is held clay that clogs many a boot tread.
on those adventures
sometimes referred
annually by Gamo USA in Alabama’s Black Belt A large part of the competition is designed
to it as “the region. Participation is on an invitation-only to encourage young shooters, many of which
smokeless thunder basis, with contestants consisting of outdoor
stick.” The early- writers, TV celebrities and
produced air rifles their film crews, Gamo
in the U.S. were representatives, 4-H
low-powered pieces members, dog handlers
utilizing a spring and their faithful squirrel-
pistol power plant.
pursuing K9s. Typically,
These weapons
flourished following
the event pairs six teams against one another
the Civil War, in a fun-filled, one-day competition to see how The Gamo Swarm Maxxim air rifles
and were mainly many gray and fox squirrels each team can used in the Gamo Squirrel Master
harvest using Gamo USA air rifles. Classic were chambered in .22
confined to target
caliber, but are also available in
shooting and paper I participated in the second annual Squirrel .177 caliber.
targets. Master Classic two years ago and found that
it was a real hoot. Unfortunately, my team PHOTO COURTESY OF GAMO USA
MP-1708-SQUIRREL.CX.indd 60 6/27/17 4:42 AM

[SQUIRREL]
(right) The fox squirrel is a very large and tough breed to
bring down, but the new Gamo Swarm Maxxim rifle was
well up to the challenge. (opposite)) Prior to the beginning of
the competition, each participant must sight-in their rifle.
PHOTOS BY THOMAS C. TABOR
are new to hunting. That’s where 4-H comes

in. One 4-H member is assigned to each team.
In previous years, scores were compiled based
solely on the number of squirrels taken, with any
ties being broken by the team with the heaviest
squirrel bag. This year, however, the competition
was expanded to include various other
competitive shooting events. Scores from those
events were then rolled into the scores produced
by the actual squirrel hunting to determine the
victor of the Squirrel Master Classic.
To the Field
The downpour of rain the day and night
before the big competition reminded us how
weather can influence any outdoor adventure.
We lucked out, though: The storm arrived a
day early and passed before we headed afield
for the competition. But, while the rain had
subsided, the Southern humidity had not.
Gunner, my team’s squirrel dog, was anxious
“… hunters
face scattered
timberland
intermixed with
food plots … wet
swampy terrain—
sometimes Gamo Swarm Maxxim
occupied by The Gamo Swarm Maxxim is a one-of-a-kind break-barrel gas-piston-
designed air rifle. Unlike all other currently manufactured break-barrel
snakes—and red airguns, which must be manually loaded between shots, the Maxxim
comes equipped with a unique, removable 10-shot magazine. Simply
Alabama gumbo re-cock the rifle after firing to reload for another shot.
The $249.99 MSRP Swarm Maxxim is available in both .22 and .177
clay …” caliber, and in addition to its fiber-optic front and rear sights, it includes
its own 3-9x40mm scope. When shooting the Gamo
PBA Platinum pellets, it produces a muzzle velocity of
1,300 fps in .177 caliber and 975 fps in .22 caliber.
It is equipped with a two-stage, independently
adjustable trigger, and includes a three-year warranty.
For more information, visit gamousa.com.

to get started, and soon we were all loaded
into trucks and headed afield. Gunner, like
Common Airgun
most Southern-bred squirrel dogs, is a Feist, Designs
also known as the Mountain Feist or Treeing
Feist. This is a mixed-heritage dog rather The Gamo Swarm Maxxims used in the 2017
than an actual breed, but has been around Gamo Squirrel Master Classic competition
for centuries in the U.S. Even though the Feist are of the break-barrel, spring-piston design,
is exceptionally well known in the Southern which requires the shooter to hand cock the rifle
states, it’s rare to encounter one north of the between each shot. The Swarm is unique because
Mason/Dixon Line. it’s the only currently produced break-barrel rifle
My team members, like those from the to come with a magazine. The break-barrel design
is possibly the most popular and reliable of all
other five teams, consisted of a cross section
airgun designs today.
of the shooting world. Our team leader and The pre-charged pneumatic (PCP) is growing
noted outdoor-TV celebrity, Ralph Cianciarulo, in popularity, however, due to its repeating-shot
hosts “Archer’s Choice” and was joined by his capabilities, frequently faster velocities and
cameraman. The other members included sometimes larger available calibers. As the
three writers (including me), 4-H member name implies, PCP airguns must be precharged
Jeremy McFarland and his chaperone, our dog with air.
handler and Gunner, his expert squirrel K9. To a certain degree, CO2 pellet guns have lost
When we headed back for our mid-morning popularity in recent years, but are still being
produced. This design requires the use of a small,
check-in, we were confident our bag of eight
pre-charged CO2 canister to propel pellets.
gray squirrels would move us a little closer to Last on the ladder are the variable-pump
snatching the Wooden Squirrel, but we found models, which must be pumped up to propel
A squirrel located high in that three teams were ahead of us with 11, their pellets. Their only advantage is that pellet
the treetops can be a chal- 13 and 14 squirrels in their bags. We did get velocity can be varied based upon how many
lenging target for any rifle a bit of a reprieve at the Red Ryder BB event times the gun is pumped.
and shooter, but the Gamo
when Ralph surprised us all, literally blowing
Swarm Maxxim was up to
the challenge. away the competition. But, even with Ralph’s
PHOTO BY THOMAS C. TABOR impressive performance with the Red Ryder,

[SQUIRREL]
“… when we saw the vast number of squirrel nests

high in the treetops, we had renewed hopes we’d
clinch the lead.”
we faced an uphill battle when it came to our

overall success.
Our afternoon hunt brought us to new
grounds in search of our quarry, and when
we saw the vast number of squirrel nests
high in the treetops, we had renewed hopes
we’d clinch the lead. Nevertheless, we soon
found that most of those nesting squirrels
had apparently moved on in search of better
eats. Persisting, however, we were finally able
to add another four grays to our tally, and one
raccoon to boot. Unfortunately, there was no
category or credit for that bandit.
The End Result

While we all had a great time at the Squirrel
Master Classic, I’m sorry to report my team
once again landed in fourth place. Like last
time, my team simply couldn’t put enough
squirrels in our bag to capture the infamous
Wooden Squirrel award.
Even though we fell short, I traveled a long
way back home to Montana glad that I went. Of
course, I hope to redeem myself in 2018. One of
those Wooden Squirrels would certainly look
(top) Tabor and team were happy with their harvest by midday at the competition, though
good in my trophy room. MP they found three other teams had harvested more squirrels. (below)) Despite taking fourth
place, Tabor (third from left) and his team are all smiles. PHOTOS BY THOMAS C. TABOR

Author Clay Newcomb likes to expose the

meat to direct smoke for about half of
the cooking time. Then, he finishes it in a
foil-covered pan on low heat in the oven.
MP-1708-SMOKE.indd 64 6/22/17 3:18 AM

TASTE
OF THE
WILD
DIY SMOKED BEAR SHOULDER
By Clay Newcomb
MP-1708-SMOKE.indd 65 6/22/17 3:18 AM

B
ears are icons of America’s wilderness. The oil and fur were valuable commodities,
Their teeth, claws, strength and resolve and bear meat was worth $10 per 100 pounds.
to survive symbolize our vast and In 1806, bear skins at Washington Post,
rugged continent. Their meat is truly Arkansas, were sold for $1 and $2 each, and a
American cuisine. Eating bear meat forges an single trading company recorded buying 900
organic connection to America’s wild places. in one year. The price was dependent upon the
One of the best ways to enjoy bear meat is size and quality of the skins. Considering other
smoked. Smoked bear is tender and juicy, and companies were buying bear commodities as
I’ll show you how to do it yourself, but first, well, one could estimate that thousands of
let’s review some bruin history. black bears were being harvested annually in
Arkansas alone.
Black Bears Then Bear oil or grease was considered high-
In the 1800s, bear meat was a common quality oil that didn’t spoil as quickly as other
dish in the United States. Bears were “market animal oils. This commodity could be sold for
hunted,” meaning that their meat was sold $1 per gallon, and was measured in ells. An
in wild-game markets, which contributed ell—a standard medium of exchange in the
sharply to their declining numbers at the 1800s—was formed from the hide and neck of
time. In Arkansas, once known as “The Bear a deer and was used to contain, transport and
State,” accounts of pioneer life reveal that meat measure bear oil.
served at the table was likely bear meat. Bear skins stretched out to dry in front of
People hunted bear for profit, subsistence homes were status symbols. Potentially, a
and to rid the country of a perceived vermin. 300-pound bear in the 1800s would have been
MP-1708-SMOKE.CX.indd 66 6/27/17 4:46 AM

[SMOKED]
“When done correctly, a

worth between $12-15, which is equivalent to
hundreds of dollars today, comparable to a beef
steer in our modern economy. Market hunters
willing to tolerate a wilderness lifestyle could slab of bear meat hot off the
have made a respectable living hunting bear
in the fall. Today, hunters are happy to get a
smoker has the texture and
single bear in a year’s time, and they put the
meat to good use.
flavor of beef brisket.”
Black Bears Now geographic distribution of any big-game
Learning new methods for using wild meat animal, second only to the mountain lion.
is an important component of 21st century Originally, black bears occurred in more places
hunting. Meat from the market is expensive, than even white-tailed deer. Biologists believe Bears were widely
and the benefits of supplementing freezers there are more black bears now than before hunted in the 1800s,
with wild game include reduced grocery bills, European settlement. Conservative estimates and their meat was
common table fare
health benefits and the satisfaction of eating suggest we now have 800,000 black bears
in many homes. As
what you kill. Urbanization has separated compared to 500,000 previously. Opportunities their current-day
most people from the reality of modern meat to hunt black bear abound, but many aren’t numbers grow, once
production. Being good stewards of wild protein sure about eating bear meat. When handled again, hunters can
take advantage of the
acquired through sustainable hunting is good and cooked correctly, it’s excellent table
meat, oil and hides
for hunters, our families and our public image. fare, and provides a catalyst for dinner-table these animals can
Black bears have the widest natural conversations that domesticated meat can’t. provide.

“The USDA
suggests cooking
pork and chicken
to an internal
temperature of
160°F … I suggest
the same for bear
meat.”
Bear Meat for the Smoker

When preparing bear meat for smoking, I
leave about a quarter of the fat on the meat.
Depending on the time of year and the bear’s
diet, the meat will likely have a region-specific
flavor. I’ve heard that the only bear meat that
doesn’t taste good is from areas where they eat
a high proportion of fish.
Bears are omnivores, but 85% of their diet is
vegetation. In many parts of their range, a high
percentage of the remaining 15% is in the form
of insects. A bear killed in the fall in Arkansas
will have gorged itself on acorns and hickory
nuts. I find the flavor, even in mature male
animals, to be excellent. Bear meat is greasier
and heavier than what you’re probably used
to, but don’t let that be a deterrent. It’s great
meat for smoking.
The shoulder of any wild animal isn’t
considered a high-quality cut and can be
challenging to use. However, it can be put to
great use in the smoker. Smoking flavors the
meat and can be used as a preservative. Bear
meat is red with a beef- or pork-like texture;
I describe it as “red pork.” In centuries past,
when gaining lots of calories from food was
in vogue, calorie-rich bear meat was a top
choice. Fatty meats have a lot of connective
tissues called collagen. When cooked fast,
collagen shrinks and tightens the meat, giving
it a tough, rubbery texture. Slow cooking melts
the fats, effectively rendering it between the
muscle tissues, providing a tender texture and
juicy flavor. When done correctly, a slab of bear
meat hot off the smoker has the texture and
flavor of beef brisket.
Smoking Considerations
(top) For this recipe, you’ll need salt, pepper, barbeque sauce, onion powder, aluminum I prefer to use hickory for smoking bear
foil, a bear front shoulder, a wood smoker, a disposable aluminum turkey pan, 10 meat because of its rich and bold flavor. It’s
pounds of mesquite or hickory wood and 10 pounds of charcoal. (center) If you like bark also a native tree that grows on my property.
on your barbeque (a blackened crust), liberally coat the bear shoulder with barbeque
However, on this bear shoulder, I wanted to try
sauce. (bottom) The barbeque sauce exposed to direct smoke and heat will form the
bark of the barbeque. PHOTOS BY CLAY NEWCOMB mesquite wood purchased from a local grocery
store. When smoking meat, lignin in the wood
MP-1708-SMOKE.indd 68 6/22/17 3:18 AM

[SMOKED]
(top) Use 5 pounds of charcoal and a generous amount of wood to start the fire. The char-
carries the flavor into the meat through the
coal stabilizes the temperature, while wood smoke flavors the meat. (below) Newcomb
aromatic smoke. Additionally, wood cellulose smokes most bear quarters for two to four hours at 225˚F, then transfers the meat to
breaks down, is transferred to the meat oven on low heat for a total cook time of eight to 10 hours. PHOTOS BY CLAY NEWCOMB
through smoke and caramelizes the outside of
the flesh to create flavor.
The smoke ring is an important part of all
smoked meats. This is a distinct pink section
of meat usually in the first ¼ inch. Don’t let
the pink color deceive you into thinking it
isn’t cooked; it is. The ring indicates that
the flavor of the wood penetrated the meat,
and it looks great, too. In scientific terms,
the smoke ring is formed by iron molecules
oxidizing and turning the flesh pink. The
ring will be shallower or deeper based upon
how long you expose the uncovered meat to
direct smoke. Good smoked meat will have a
smoke ring.
As you’ll see in the method I detail on
the following page, I typically only leave the
meat on the wood smoker for about two to
four hours. Why? Convenience. It’s easier to
keep the oven at a steady temperature than
to monitor the smoker constantly. The meat
will receive its mouth-watering smoke flavor
during this time, and a great smoke ring will
have time to form.
After a couple of hours, I take the meat
out and place it in the oven in a covered pan
for the remainder of the cooking time, which
also prevents the meat from drying out.
MP-1708-SMOKE.indd 69 6/22/17 3:18 AM

“Eating bear meat forges an organic connection to
America’s wild places.”
SMOKED BEAR SHOULDER RECIPE
Ingredients and Tools

For this recipe, you’ll need salt, pepper,
onion powder, barbeque sauce, a wood
smoker, aluminum foil, a bear front shoulder,
a disposable aluminum turkey pan, 10 pounds
of charcoal and 10 pounds of mesquite or
hickory wood.
Trim, Season and Baste

Do your final cleaning of the shoulder,
trimming off any excess fat but leaving some
for flavor. Liberally apply salt, pepper and
onion powder to the entire shoulder. Then,
generously baste barbeque sauce onto the
meat. The charred sauce is what gives the
smoked meat the “bark” or crust that makes
barbeque taste so good. If you don’t like bark,
then don’t apply sauce until after the meat is
cooked. Many people like to marinate meat 24
hours before smoking. This is a good idea, but
I typically don’t wait that long.
Smoke
For a bear shoulder that weighs
approximately 10 pounds, I like to cook
at 225°F for up to 10 hours. I cooked this
particular shoulder for 8 hours at 250°F,
but I forfeited some tenderness. Lower
temperatures for longer periods of time
typically mean more tender meat. Using
a formula of 1 to 1 ½ hours of cooking
time per pound of meat is a reasonable
guideline. However, it’s much better to use a
thermometer to test the internal temperature.
Bear meat should be cooked thoroughly
because of the risk of trichinosis. However,
it’s killed at 145°F degrees and is no longer a
problem. The USDA suggests cooking pork and
chicken to an internal temperature of 160°F,
just to be safe. I’d suggest the same for bear
meat. However, the final cooked temperature
of the meat should be around 190°F.
After the meat has been rubbed with the
Field Preparation of ingredients, place it in a smoker that’s been

preheated to 225°F. I typically use a full
BEAR MEAT 10-pound bag of charcoal—5 pounds in the
first two hours and 5 pounds the second two
Bears are typically killed in the warmer months of the year, so proper meat care hours—to keep the temperature stable. If
is essential. Bear meat can became rancid more quickly than ungulate meat, so it’s you’re using an electric smoker, this won’t be
important to keep the flesh cool and process it quickly. Leaving a bear overnight an issue. I put generous amounts of wood on
after it’s been shot in the evening is often the first mistake. Hunters are sometimes top of the charcoal to create good smoke.
leery about tracking a bear in the dark, so they opt to go after it in the morning. If
the temperature is in the 40s or lower, this will probably be OK, but if it’s higher, Bake
chances are you’ll lose some—if not all—of the meat. Safety should be your first I let this shoulder cook in direct smoke for
concern, but your second should be the meat. If you’ve made a good shot and you four hours at 250°F. Then I took it out, covered
recover the bear in the evening, skin and quarter it promptly. Get it in the freezer or the pan with foil and placed it in the oven
on ice as quickly as possible. You’ll be rewarded with great-tasting meat. preheated to 250°F for another four hours
(eight hours total). By this time, the smoke

[SMOKED]
After cooking, slice the has done the flavoring; now the meat simply
meat to be used however
you prefer. Notice the
needs to slow cook. On larger cuts of bear, Smoked-Bear-Meat
beautiful, pinkish smoke
ring on this bear shoulder.
I’d suggest cooking at 200-225°F for longer
periods of time. BAKED POTATO
Slice and Serve Large amounts of bear meat can be used

After the meat has cooked, let it sit for at multiple ways. One especially delicious way to use
least 20 minutes before you begin to slice it. up leftover smoked bear meat is to grind it in a food
The meat can be sliced against the grain like processor and top a baked potato with it.
brisket and eaten with barbeque sauce. When After grinding, I like to mix in a liberal amount
you cut into the meat, you’ll see a beautiful, of barbeque sauce to help the meat stick together.
pink smoke ring around the outside of the Then, cut a baked potato down the middle and
meat. It should be cooked all the way to the salt, pepper and butter it to taste. Place a heaping
bone. Some parts of the shoulder are tougher, helping of ground bear meat on the potato along
and I like to chop it up into smaller pieces for with some grated cheese and more barbeque sauce.
other uses. You’ll have a hearty meal fit for king. Sometimes
Everyone who’s eaten bear meat cooked this this is the best way to introduce someone to bear
way has been delightfully surprised; many meat, giving them a taste of it dressed up in a way
people think it’s beef. It’s a great way to spend a they already enjoy: a loaded baked potato.
Saturday that ends in a truly American meal. MP
MP-1708-SMOKE.indd 71 6/22/17 3:18 AM

• GENERAL •
MP-1708-VARNISH.indd 72 6/21/17 6:35 AM

BEAUTY
RESTORED
Do your hardwood floors lack
luster? Try this DIY potion for
less than $50
By Charles Witosky
W
ood is a time-tested flooring option that
not only resists wear, it looks great too.
No matter what type of wood flooring
you have, taking some time to maintain it will
dramatically prolong its life.
Applying varnish is a good way to keep your
wood flooring in good condition. While store-
bought varnish is effective, the chemicals used to
make it can be suspect. They’re not necessarily
unsafe, but if you’re like me and don’t want to take
any chances with your family’s health, why not
try your hand at making your own varnish from
natural ingredients instead.
I’ve worked with three different methods, of
varying complexity, that will enhance your wood
flooring’s appearance and give it longevity.

METHOD 1
COCONUT OIL
This first one isn’t really a recipe, just a
simple direction: Gently rub coconut oil onto
your hardwood flooring.
Ingredients
• Coconut oil
Tools
• Clean, dry towel
Directions
P STEP 1
Clean the hardwood.
Do this before you apply any type of varnish;

it’s possibly the most important step. If you
don’t wipe away the dust and grime before
varnishing, you’ll only rub them deeper into
the wood.
To clean the hardwood properly, first vacuum
and then mop. Next, wipe the floor with either
a damp rag or a barely damp mop to pick up
anything the vacuum and mop missed.
P STEP 2
Rub the coconut oil into the corner of a
dry cloth.
A little goes a long way.
P STEP 3
Apply the oil to the hardwood in a circular
motion.
Use a light hand. Don’t force or rub the oil in

vigorously. Once you can no longer see the oil
and the floor looks cleaner and shinier, move
on to another section. Continue until you’ve
covered the entire floor.
“... if you ... don’t

want to take any
chances with your
family’s health, why
not try your hand at
making your own

varnish from natural
ingredients ...”

[VARNISH]
What is
Coconut
Oil?
Coconut oil is
extracted from the
endosperm, or the
meat, of the coconut.
It’s high in saturated
fat and can be used
for many purposes:
cooking, seasoning
cast-iron cookware,
remineralizing and
whitening teeth,
moisturizing skin,
deodorizing, etc. It can
also be used as a low-
SPF sunscreen, lip
balm, as an ingredient
in shampoo, to
avoid stretch marks
during pregnancy, on
mosquito bites and
so on. Its high-fat
content and edibility
make it truly versatile.
Don’t overuse it
when cooking,
though, as it will
significantly increase
the saturated fat
content of your food.
Coconut oil is good
and healthy for
hardwood because it’s
natural. Because it’s
high in saturated fat,
it acts as a protective
layer for hardwood. It
also has a naturally
occurring sheen, giving
your floor a new and
shiny appearance.

Guide to Hardwood Floors
There are entire books devoted to the subject, you’re laying down a floor for a basement, save
Species Pressure to
some that try to sell you on a certain type of some money and go with engineered.
Embed (Pounds)
hardwood, some that don’t. Here is a no-
nonsense guide on what to look out for when Species and Hardness Hickory 1,820
selecting hardwood. Ash, elm, alder, maple, cherry, beech, linden, Aspen 350
hickory, white oak, tigerwood, northern red Hard Maple 1,450
Solid vs. Engineered oak; the list of suitable hardwoods for flooring Basswood 410
Solid hardwood is naturally made of any is long. While you should compare numerous White Oak 1,360
number of tree species. Engineered hardwood is attributes before selecting hardwood, Cottonwood 430
made of multiple layers of plywood with a thin, hardness is a chief consideration. On the Beech 1,300
solid hardwood top layer. right is a chart found in the United States Yellow Poplar 540
Understand that if you’re laying flooring over Department of Agriculture’s Wood Handbook Red Oak 1,290
radiant heat, you can’t use solid hardwood: It that measures the relative hardness of various Alder 590
will dry and shrink, and even split in some cases. woods. It uses the Janka scale of hardness, Yellow Birch 1,260
There’s nothing wrong with an engineered floor, which measures the force required, in pounds, Sycamore 770
so use what’s best for your home. If you want to embed an 11.28mm steel ball into each Green Ash 1,200
the natural beauty of solid hardwood, go for it. If wood to half of the ball’s diameter. Elm 830

[VARNISH]
METHOD 2
OLIVE OIL
While this varnish only has two ingredients,
it has the added benefit of a pleasant aroma.
Ingredients
• Olive oil
• Lemon juice or essential oil
• I recommend choosing a milder, fresher

essential oil. Consider that strawberry
essential oil smells great, but do you really
want your entire home to smell of
strawberries? Not me. I use lemon juice,
lemon essential oil or lavender essential oil
for this varnish.
Tool
Directions
P STEP 1
Mix 1 ¼ cups olive oil with ¾ cup lemon juice

or three drops of essential oil.
Exceeding the suggested dose of essential

oil will make the scent of the varnish
overpowering.
P STEP 2
Dip a corner of a towel into the mixture and

apply.
Using a slow, circular motion, rub the mixture

into the floor. Focus on small areas so that you
properly cover the entire floor.
Fill in a Scratch With a Walnut

Scratches on hardwood are unfortunate but inevitable. So, what will seep into the
do you do? Replace the board? Paint over it? Use wood filler? All scratch, solidifying and
three—and many more—options are reasonable, but if you’re ever in drying so the scratch
a pinch and need to cover up a scratch quickly, use a walnut. becomes the same
color as the wood. This
P STEP 1 process works best on

Rub a shelled walnut across the length of the scratch. Do this dark-colored wood.
repeatedly, making sure you’ve covered every inch.
PSTEP 3
P STEP 2 Varnish using any of the methods detailed in this article.
Wait 10 minutes. During this time, the natural oils from the walnut The scratch should no longer be visible.
MP-1708-VARNISH.CX.indd 77 6/28/17 12:14 PM

METHOD 3
BEESWAX AND
OLIVE OIL
The most effective (and complicated) of the
three recipes, we prefer this one. The beeswax
adds a protective layer, the olive oil gives
the floor a nice sheen, and the essential oil
contributes a wonderful smell.
Ingredients
• ½ cup beeswax
• 1 ½ cups olive oil
• 3 drops essential oil of choice
Tools
• Knife (if beeswax is in block form)
• Jar or heat-resistant bowl
• Two bowls of different sizes to form a

double boiler or a double boiler
Directions
P STEP 1 “Engineered hardwood is made

Chop up beeswax. of multiple layers of plywood
Large chunks of raw beeswax can be very with a thin, solid hardwood
tough to cut through, so use a well-sharpened
knife. Chop it up as finely as possible. If you top layer.”
can turn a whole block into shavings, do
so. When measuring the beeswax you’ve
chopped, pack it tightly into a measuring cup
and level it off to make sure you’re using the P STEP 4 These are the ingredients
appropriate amount. and tools needed to make
a quality, good-smelling
Once the beeswax has completely melted, hardwood-floor varnish.
P STEP 2 pour the mixture into a jar or bowl. PHOTO BY CHARLES WITOSKY
Melt beeswax in a double boiler. It will solidify almost immediately.
If you have an actual double boiler, use it; P STEP 5

otherwise, use the two-pot method: Add
water to a stockpot and bring to a simmer, Varnish your floor using the technique
set a bowl in the stockpot, but don’t allow the described in the previous two recipes.
bottom of the bowl to come in contact with the
simmering water. Revarnish when necessary.
P STEP 3 Beauty Restored

Using any of the methods outlined here, you can
Once most of the beeswax has melted, add prolong the life of wood flooring and restore its
olive oil and essential oil. natural beauty when wear and tear cause it to
scuff and fade. As an added bonus, none of these
Stir until all ingredients are combined. methods exceed $50. Try them out, and you’ll see
that they’re money well spent. MP

[VARNISH]
It just takes a few dollars and some elbow grease to make high-quality, non-toxic
hardwood varnish to protect and beautify flooring and paneling.

MP-1708-ELK.CX1.indd 80 6/27/17 11:45 PM

BUST BIG ELK WITH A
DEER RIFLE
Planning an elk hunt and think you need a bigger
rifle? If you hunt deer, think again
By Patrick Meitin
MP-1708-ELK.CX1.indd 81 6/27/17 11:45 PM

I
There’s no disputing that ’ve never been a big-gun advocate. I killed my First, since these hunters usually used their
elk are one of the largest, first elk at age 12, a New Mexico 5x5 bull at 200 light rifle extensively for white-tailed deer and
toughest big-game animals
yards, with .243 Winchester; my second was were intimately familiar with it (and not afraid of
regularly hunted in North
America, but quality another bull at the same range, using the same it), they typically shot it well. More pointedly, the
bullets with high ballistic rifle, two years later. These early experiences shaped notion that larger cartridges compensate for sloppy
coefficients placed correct- my perspective on rifles. shooting is ridiculous. Killing big game is all about
ly will always do the job,
That attitude was reinforced while guiding elk bullet placement and always will be. Some argue
no matter how powerful
the cartridge. hunters for 23 years in New Mexico’s Gila region. I that visiting sportsmen must sometimes take
witnessed too many sports arriving for their long- the shot presented or go home empty-handed, a
PHOTO BY PATRICK MEITIN awaited adventures armed with big .300 Weatherby point made as a way of excusing shots taken at
or .338 Winchester magnums—cartridges generally steeply-quartering or straight-away animals that
deemed ideal by gun-writer types—who couldn’t require bullets to plow through lots of body. Placing
hit their butt with both hands while shooting these precedence on larger cartridges to excuse risky
blunderbusses. Who could really blame them? shots, again, is ridiculous. Risky is risky, and elk
Especially in the custom 6 ½-pound mountain rifles deserve better.
many of these clients chose for the big event, these Granted, elk are, pound for pound, as tough
cartridges punish from both ends. as they come, but nothing lives very long with
perforated lungs. Furthermore, in this day of
Accuracy Trumps Power exponentially better bullet designs and factory
In time, I developed the general attitude that I’d ammo, lines have blurred considerably.
rather have a client shoot a lighter cartridge well
than a larger round with mediocre accuracy. This Terms and Conditions
doesn’t even begin to address the issue of youth or Setting parameters regarding what is “big” and
petite women hunters. what is “small” is pretty subjective. I know a notable
gun writer who considers the .375 H&H—a cartridge
suited to African Cape buffalo—ideal for elk. If recoil
wasn’t a factor, I’d call the .338 Winchester perfect
elk medicine. Many others point to any of the .300
magnums, and I wouldn’t argue with those choices,
either. But, we’re not arguing “ideal” here, but rather
employing a perfectly good deer rifle you already
own and shoot well for elk hunting.
I could argue for cartridges as mild as the .243
Winchester, 6mm Remington, .257 Roberts and
MP-1708-ELK.indd 82 6/21/17 3:52 AM

[ELK]
“In time, I developed the general attitude that I’d

rather have a client shoot a lighter cartridge well
than a larger round with mediocre accuracy.”
(above) When going after
North America’s biggest
game animal, use what
you’re comfortable with
and bring along your
deer rifle.
(right) Nathan Rogers took

this eating-fat Colorado
cow elk with a single shot
from a 7mm-08, a car-
tridge that performs well
beyond its seemingly mild
nature. The high ballistic
coefficient inherent to
most 7mm bullets makes
it a fine elk cartridge.
PHOTO BY PATRICK MEITIN
MP-1708-ELK.indd 83 6/21/17 3:52 AM

Would a larger cartridge .25-06—all rounds I’d hunt elk with myself—with bullets with low BCs shed speed and energy (in the
make such a running shot
any safer? Maybe, maybe
caveats, of course, which I’ll discuss momentarily. air and while penetrating game) faster than those
not. It’s still all about More realistically, though, we’re looking at with higher BCs. So, while a lighter bullet may look
bullet placement, after cartridges in realm of the 6.5x55mm Swedish good out of the blocks, higher BCs typically present
all, and a heavier, faster Mauser (developed in 1894), .260 Remington (.308 superior velocities and flatter trajectories at true
bullet won’t turn a paunch
shot into a killing one,
Winchester necked to 6.5mm/.264 caliber), newly hunting ranges.
should you fail to lead the popular 6.5 Creedmoor, Jack O’Connor’s .270 Furthermore, all that bullet weight stacked
animal sufficiently. Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington (.308 necked to behind long-for-caliber bullets pile-drives
7mm), 7x57mm Mauser (developed in 1892) and .300 game—a sharp, slim spear versus a heavy, blunt
Savage, with the .280 Remington, .308 Winchester rock, to exaggerate the point a tad. High BCs are
and venerable .30-06 Springfield at the heavy end. characterized by long, sharp-pointed bullets,
opposed to blunted or steep-ogive tips.
How Ballistic Coefficient Factors
Ballistic coefficient (BC) is an index of how a Better Components
bullet decelerates as it speeds downrange, or how Add high BC to more ruggedly constructed
efficiently it slices through the atmosphere. It also bullets, and lighter cartridges can be made to
has a large bearing on factors such as wind drift and perform well on large game such as elk. The
penetration. A BC of 1.00 is considered perfect. catchwords here are “controlled expansion.” Varmint
In general terms, the best penetration bullets, at one extreme, are designed to come apart
is provided, relative to the cartridge under on impact, delivering dramatic impacts on vermin
discussion, by bullets carrying a BC of around .450 like prairie dogs and woodchucks. In the middle are
to .500 or higher (look for these numbers when deer bullets, average soft or hollow points made to
shopping for ammo). This translates, especially expand aggressively to impart maximum shock, but
with the lightest cartridges under discussion, into retain enough weight to push completely through
long/heavy-for-caliber bullet designs. For example, vitals, often exiting. On elk, where penetration
in 6.5mm, this would generally mean a 140- to is paramount, controlled-expansion bullets are
160-grain bullet instead of a 120; in .270, a 150 designed to mushroom evenly after meeting
instead of 130; in 7mm, a 160-plus instead of a 120; resistance, but also constructed to ensure weight
in .308, a 190-200 grain instead of 150. retention in the 80 to 90 percentiles.
But, bullets that heavy sacrifice velocity and flat- The original controlled-expansion design is
shooting characteristics, you protest. Forget muzzle Nosler’s Partition. These bullets include a fully
velocities. You don’t shoot elk off the muzzle, but tapered, copper-alloy jacket, creating a standard,
200- to 300-yard shots are quite common. Lighter soft-nosed bullet up front, an integral partition-
MP-1708-ELK.indd 84 6/21/17 3:52 AM

[ELK]
PET LOADS, DEER RIFLES AND ELK LOADS

.260 REMINGTON
The .260 Remington is one of those cartridges that should be more popular, but lost that quirky contest that decides winners and losers in standard
cartridge choice. It’s nothing more than the .308 Winchester necked down to the suddenly popular (via the 6.5 Creedmoor) 6.5mm caliber, but one
that performs well beyond its seemingly diminutive size.
BULLET BC Powder LOAD VELOCITY PRIMER

(Ballistic Coefficient)
Hornady ELD Remington

143 gr. .623 IMR 4831 39 gr. 2,580 fps 9z ½
.270 WINCHESTER
It could be argued the late gun-writing master Jack O’Conner made the .270 Winchester, but on its own merits, this is one fine cartridge. A necked-
down .30-06 in a somewhat oddball .277-caliber diameter, and the .270 performs better than it should. I’ve witnessed a great many elk throttled with
this cartridge, so its validity is unquestioned.
Sierra GameKing 150 gr. SBT Winchester WLR

.483 RL-22 56.9 gr. 2,800 + fps
Nosler Partition
150 gr. Spitzer .465 H4350 52 gr. 2,782 fps Fed 210
7MM-08 REMINGTON
Another offspring of the .308 Winchester, the 7mm-08 is justifiably popular. It offers mild recoil for youngsters and women shooters with killing
performance beyond its seemingly mild manner. The 7mm caliber also offers some of the highest BCs around.
Nosler AccuBond LR 175 gr. Winchester WLR

.672 IMR 4350 43 gr. 2,540 fps
.308 WINCHESTER
The NATO cartridge of choice, once-fired brass is easy to come by for the .308 Winchester, making it cheap to reload. The .308 is also accurate,
versatile, highly efficient and chambered in a wide variety of rifle options.
Barnes LRX
175 gr. .508 Varget 41 gr. 2,400 fps Fed 210
.30-06 SPRINGFIELD
It’s safe to say more big-game hunters own 06s than any other cartridge. In the world of North American big-game hunting, when loaded with
appropriate bullets, I’d contend that the hunter would want for nothing else, and here I include moose and brown bears. It’s that versatile.
Sierra GameKing 200 gr. SBT Winchester WLR

.560 H1000 59.5 gr. 2,390 fps
Hornady GMX 180 gr.
.485 W760 57.5 gr. 2,950 fps CCI 200
MP-1708-ELK.indd 85 6/21/17 3:52 AM

MP-1708-ELK.indd 86 6/21/17 3:52 AM

[ELK]

(above) Many sports feel checking expansion and protecting the rear lead The reloader can obviously capitalize on these
compelled to bring along core. I used this bullet on those early elk from my options (see sidebar, “Pet Loads, Deer Rifles and
a big gun with a large load
.243 Winchester. Other soft-nosed bullets include Elk Loads,” pg. 85) by experimenting with various
to hunt elk when they
would do well to use a bonded cores—interior lead chemically fused powder/bullet combinations to find one that groups
smaller rifle with which to the copper jacket to prevent separation—like well from their rifle. This gives you a much wider
they’re comfortable. It’s Speer’s Grand Slam or Nosler’s AccuBond bullets, as array of bullets to choose from to meet your goals.
also wise to consider
examples. Classic soft-point bullets with high BCs Those depending on factory ammunition need
an ammunition with
a suitable ballistic also include Sierra’s heaviest-for-caliber GameKing not fret, as manufacturers annually offer more loads
coefficient. series, with BCs in the upper .400s to upper .500s. holding premium bullets. Scour ammo catalogs or
Polymer-tipped bullets generally increase BC websites and you’ll surely find several of the bullets
numbers, while anything labeled “long range” suggested above, ready to shoot out of the box.
(granted they’re suitable for hunting applications), Sure, you’ll pay more for these premium loads than
like Nosler’s AccuBond LR (Long Range) or Hornady’s standard deer-hunting fodder, but for most hunters,
ELD-X (Extremely Low Drag-eXpanding), takes these elk hunts are special events, and the added expense
values as far as possible, respective of caliber. is insignificant considering the big picture. Shoot
Also common today are lead-free, homogeneous several loads to find one your rifle prefers.
pills constructed from copper alloy, often holding
polymer tips to boost BC and act as a wedge to Take Your Deer Rifle Elk Hunting
promote more reliable expansion. To my mind, Elk hunting is hugely exciting, adventurous and
in addition to those already mentioned, these sometimes just a bit overwhelming, especially
epitomize what we’re discussing here: designs that for the sport traveling far from home. You’ll have
have cemented my conviction that you don’t need a enough to wrap your head around without the
magnum cartridge to cleanly harvest elk. added confusion of a new or borrowed rifle. Stick
Copper is lighter than lead, so by necessity, these with what you know best. Use your familiar deer
bullets are long for caliber, typically boosting BC. rifle for elk, and you’ll do just fine. But, heed these
Prime examples include Barnes’ original X Bullets, suggestions to ensure your ammo is up to the task
Nosler’s E-Tip and Hornady’s GMX, all relinquishing of tackling North America’s toughest commonly
BCs in the upper .400s to mid .500s. hunted big-game animal. MP
MP-1708-ELK.CX.indd 87 6/27/17 4:50 AM

MP-1708-CAMP.CX.indd 88 6/27/17 4:52 AM

MOBILE
DEER CAMP
GO THE TENT ROUTE IN SEARCH OF
WHITETAIL ADVENTURE
By Tony J. Peterson
PHOTO BY TONY J. PETERSON
MP-1708-CAMP.CX.indd 89 6/27/17 4:52 AM

“Naturally, you also must accept the
reality of spending several days in a
canvas dome amid uncontrollable
factors.”
A
weekend camping trip with no hunting the spot on which you’ll pitch your tent.
involved is usually pretty pleasant, This is different than a western backcountry
provided that Mother Nature doesn’t adventure when you’re counting ounces in a
conspire to ruin things. However, when you pack and hauling your entire trip on your back.
pair up several days of tent living with hunting On a whitetail hunt, you can almost always
white-tailed deer, the opportunity for things to outfit yourself with whatever you need to be
go south increases substantially. But, it doesn’t comfortable. This is important on so many
have to. fronts. For me, it usually starts with sleep.
In fact, operating from a mobile camp for a Nothing saps the enjoyment from a hunting
deer hunt can be a great experience. But, you trip like exhaustion. When you’re sleeping in a
must plan correctly and use the right gear. tiny tent on a mountainside while hunting elk,
Naturally, you also must accept the reality of exhaustion is a perpetual state of existence.
spending several days in a canvas dome amid For whitetails, it doesn’t need to be.
uncontrollable factors. You should be able to set up a comfortable
tent with a quality cot, sleeping pad and
Misery is Stupid sleeping bag. These are musts, and I rank the
In my younger years, I couldn’t afford to stay sleeping pad as the most important of the
in a hotel every day when I took hunting trips, three. I use an oversized, 3-inch-thick pad that’s
and quite frankly, I didn’t want to. I wanted as comfortable as I’ve ever found for camping.
to set up a tent, eat simply, live simply and I’d never pack it into the mountains, but it’s
maximize my time in the woods. perfect for a whitetail hunt. A comfy pad,
I eventually realized that intentionally being paired with a good sleeping bag and a sturdy
uncomfortable was stupid. For most whitetail cot, makes it much easier to sleep soundly.
camps, you can drive your vehicle right to I say that while sitting in my office and
(below) Small tents are lighter and easier to set up than larger ones, but they also aren’t much fun to spend four or five
days in. Consider erring on the side of larger rather than smaller when choosing a tent. You’ll be glad you did.
(opposite) One of the benefits of tent camping during a whitetail-hunting trip is that you can often set up right where you’ll
hunt, which simplifies the logistics. PHOTOS BY TONY J. PETERSON
Little Tents,
Little Fun
If you find yourself shopping for a
new tent, consider several things. First,
while online shopping is a great way to
buy many of life’s necessities, I don’t
recommend it for tents. Go into a store
and look at the tents you’re considering.
Make sure the one you buy is large
enough to fit your needs.
For example, you might plan to go on a
solo trip and decide that a two-man tent
will be more than enough. It won’t. For
some reason, tents are often advertised
to accommodate more people than they
actually do. For me, a four-man tent is
perfect for comfortable solo trips, and a
six-man tent is ideal for hunting with a
buddy. Take a long look at them in person
and you’ll see what I mean.
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 90 6/21/17 1:07 AM

[MOBILE CAMP]
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 91 6/21/17 1:07 AM

Camping is less expensive
than staying at a motel,
and it allows for in-camp
game care and cooking.
Nothing is better at the
end of the day than grilling
dinner over an open fire.
PHOTOS BY TONY J. PETERSON
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 92 6/21/17 1:07 AM

[MOBILE CAMP]
“I’ve seen tents Mobile Deer Camp Tents

uprooted by serious
gusts, and I’ve even
had tent poles snap
in windstorms.”
Four-Person Shelter
For one or two hunters, a four-person tent like the Instinct Alaskan Guide four-
typing away, but I also remember many times person tent from Cabela’s is ideal. This heavy-duty mobile shelter is large enough to
where sleep was tough to come by. Because of comfortably house all of your gear, measures a shade over 5 feet tall at the center,
that, I always pack a few extras on my trips. and is designed to shrug off rain, snow and wind.
Foam earplugs are a must, not only because I MSRP: $600
occasionally have snoring hunting partners in > cabelas.com
my tent, but sometimes campgrounds are noisy.
You might have other campers nearby who
aren’t as concerned with turning in early, or you
might have a pack of coyotes sounding off all
night long close enough to keep you awake.
I also always pack a battery-operated fan. This
is a lifesaver when it’s hot in the early season,
but can also provide some nice white noise for
sleeping. Mine runs on four D batteries. It’s by
far one of my best “tenting” investments.
Real Benefits
With comfort accounted for, let’s discuss the
Camp Comfortably
real benefits of tent camping for a deer-hunting
Browning Camping offers an excellent choice in its Glacier, which features a base
trip. The most obvious and tangible is that it’s
measurement of 8x9 feet, is outfitted with mesh storage pockets, and is designed
a low-cost way to spend some vacation time.
with straight walls. This is important if you plan to use a cot (you should), because it
Even rural motels will run you at least $50 per
promotes overall in-tent efficiency, and allows for a higher level of camping comfort.
night, and in my experience, they might not
MSRP: $400
provide any better accommodations than a well-
> browningcamping.com
prepped camp.
Aside from savings, you can often camp right
where you’re planning to hunt. This means less
driving. Being able to walk out from camp to
hunt is a major benefit, which can only truly be
appreciated after you’ve done it a few times.
Meals, Food Prep and Butchering

Of course, you’re responsible for meals. I
tend to look for campsites where I can start a
fire. Nothing caps off a day like cooking over an
open fire, but you’ll also want to pack a propane
stove. The simplicity of a stove to heat water for
coffee or oatmeal is always a welcome addition
to camp. I often set up a small cook station
The Bigger, the Better
in my tent (make sure to crack a window for
If you truly want to go big, consider the Rogue Expedition Upslope six-person
ventilation) so I can heat water before I even get
base camp tent from Bass Pro Shops. This beast of a tent is waterproof yet
out of my sleeping bag in the morning. There’s
breathable, features interior zippered polyester panels for heat retention, and offers
nothing quite like waking up in a cold tent and
a covered front vestibule for additional gear storage.
sipping a hot cup of coffee a few minutes later.
MSRP: $400
Food preparation is important, but so is taking
> basspro.com
care of any recently procured venison. If you’re
camping for a deer hunt, you’ll hopefully face
the task of butchering a deer. Try that in a motel
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 93 6/21/17 1:07 AM

parking lot sometime, and even if someone
doesn’t call the cops, it’ll still be a terrible
experience. In camp, you can hang a deer up and
butcher it the way you want, provided you’ve got
the tools.
I always pack a cutting board or two, an
assortment of knives, a bone saw and a
gambrel on which to hang my deer. Of course,
you must have the knowledge to piece a deer
out correctly. It’s also important to recognize
the conditions you might face. If you’re
hunting the early season, it might be hot and
dry. That means you’ve got to skin and quarter
the deer, then get the quarters on ice ASAP.
You also might deal with dust and flies. Several
companies make game bags that can handle
deer quarters, or in some cases, a whole deer.
These are cheap insurance against meat
spoilage and highly recommended.
Stay Mobile
It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes a
hunting spot simply doesn’t produce. For me,
that usually happens when I’m on public ground
riddled with other hunters. If the pressure is too
high, I pull up stakes and move to ground with
fewer hunters. Making a move will determine
just how mobile your camp is.
While it’s nice to be comfortable and have a
few amenities, it’s also advisable not to set up
(right) It’s unnecessary to be miserable while tent camping

on a deer hunt. Make sure you’re prepared with the right
gear. (below) After you break down camp and head home,
make sure you spend some time properly airing out and
storing your gear. Packing away a wet tent means you’ll
get a stinky surprise when you unroll it for your next hunt.
PHOTOS BY TONY J. PETERSON
Post-Hunt
Camp Care
After a hunt, it’s easy to get home
and dump all of your gear in the garage.
Don’t do that. Putting a rolled-up tent
away for months that has even the
slightest moisture on it can result in a
ripe, unappealing surprise when you
unroll it next time. Other things, like
worn-out lantern mantles, dirty stoves
and any gear that’s used and abused
during a trip should be attended to
before being stored.
It’s extra work, and not much fun, but
doing so will preserve your expensive
gear and ensure that you’re ready
for your next trip. Skip the post-hunt
camp-care steps and you’ll regret it in
the future.
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 94 6/21/17 1:07 AM

[MOBILE CAMP]
a camp you can’t break down and move within I’ve seen tents uprooted by serious gusts, and While it’s nice to have
a few hours. It’s a hassle, but always worth it some amenities in
I’ve even had tent poles snap in windstorms.
camp for comfort, it’s
when the program is dead at your current spot. As for heat, that’s the toughest one. Sometimes also important to take
it’s just unbearable in a tent, and the best you into account that you
Know Your Tent can do is open the windows and hope for a might need to move.
The aforementioned misery that can Find a balance between
cool breeze. Of course, you can set up in the
comfort and mobility,
accompany this hunting style almost always shade, which helps. Plus, heat usually subsides and you’ll be set for
involves inclement weather. In my opinion, after sunset. whatever you encounter.
rain is worst, followed by extreme heat and,
lastly, wind. Sometimes you get all three in the Just Go! PHOTO BY TONY J. PETERSON
same trip. How well you handle nasty weather If you’re well prepared and think things
will depend on your tent’s quality and how you through, living in a tent for a weeklong deer
use it. hunt can be an awesome experience. It takes
I’ll never set up a tent without a rain fly, the right planning and the right gear, but once
because I’ve been wet for six days in a tent and you’ve covered both, it’s usually a matter of
it was absolute misery. I also always fully stake going, and of course, enjoying your time out
down my tent, even if the weather is predicted there eating freshly grilled backstraps and
to be calm and beautiful for my trip’s duration. sleeping the night away in your canvas home. MP
MP-1708-CAMP.indd 95 6/21/17 1:07 AM

SMALL STUFF WITH
BIG BENEFITS
Little things can make your shelter more livable
H
aving a tent to shelter yourself from
1 BIG AGNES BLOWDOWN TENT ANCHOR 2 GLOROPE TACTIGLO PARACORD
nature’s fury is almost mandatory Tripping over guy lines will be a thing of
Move on from traditional tent stakes and
when you’re forced to make do under the past with Tactiglo reflective and glow
modernize with these amazing blowdown tent
the stars. However, what you normally get paracord. Use this throughout your campsite
anchors. No longer will you have to hammer
when purchasing a tent is just that, a tent. to prevent trips and falls when traversing
down stakes into unforgiving rocky or sandy
Usually no bells and whistles, no backup near your tent during the pitch blackness
soil and suffer from popped lines throughout
equipment and no luxury items are added to of night. Additionally, this cordage can be
the night. Just fill these no-skid fabric pouches
your initial purchase to make your stay just a bit used anywhere you need true 550 paracord
with sand, snow or one solid rock for non-
more comfortable. strength. Customize the amount of glow you
stop security and stability of your temporary
Luckily for you, there are many sources need by choosing from one to four glo-tracers
outdoor shelter. Featuring reflective guy lines,
to find just the right additions to make your interwoven within the cordage. From highly
these tie downs will stand out in the darkness
outdoor stay more suited to your needs and visible for maximum effectiveness to very
of night and help prevent any accidents when
tastes. From improved tent stability options to slight glow for more covert uses, this takes tent
walking nearby.
cargo holders to modern high-tech cordage and cordage to a whole new level.
repair items, you are fortunate to have many
Features Features
options at your disposal. Like every aspect of
• Replaces traditional tent stakes • Choice of glow level
camping, prepping or survival training, you can
• Lightweight to carry and store • Super strong 550 grade
customize nearly any category, and now tent
• Reflective guy lines • Charges in daylight
accessories can be added to the list.
• No-skid fabric keeps anchor in place • Contains reflective threads
MSRP: $29.95 MSRP: $0.15 to $0.69 per foot

bigagnes.com glorope.com
MP-1708-BUYERS GUIDE.indd 96 6/21/17 3:04 AM

[CAMP CARE]
3 COLEMAN CPX 6 LIGHTED TENT FAN material will hold up through the night and last 6 MSR GEAR STAKE HAMMER
Bring light and air circulation into nearly for years. When it’s time to move on, simply Don’t underestimate the value of a good
any tent to create a comfortable nighttime disassemble the unit and pack it away in its stake hammer. Without it you’ll be fighting
experience. This simple fan provides air flow to convenient storage bag for easy transport. to get your tent set and secured, and after
reduce tent stuffiness, while providing enough a long day in the bush, that’s a problem you
Features
light to play games and read maps or books. don’t need. This heavy-duty hammer will drive
• Oversized for sleeping comfort
The fan is constructed of soft foam blades, stakes with ease, even in the most troublesome
• 300-pound capacity
safe for use around children. The bright light terrain. Perfectly balanced, and engineered to
• Rapid assembly
also doubles as a soft nightlight. The fan is distribute the most force with minimal effort,
• Heavy-duty, durable construction
portable, easy-to-use and a great comfort this hammer is indispensable and built to last.
• Zippered storage pocket
for everyone. An integrated bottle opener lets you celebrate
MSRP: $129.95 your quickly erected shelter.
Features eurekacamping.com
• Compatible with most tents Features
• Powered by four D batteries or A/C adapter • 11 ounces
(both sold separately) 5 MSR GEAR UNIVERSAL GEAR LOFT • Hardened stainless steel
• Two speed modes Don’t lose valuable gear when spending a • Includes lanyard
• Runtime: High -10 hours, low - 30 hours night under the stars. This lightweight storage • Durable construction
• 99-lumen LED lights loft keeps all of your small items safe, secure
• Fan and light run independently and out of the way while you sleep. It easily MSRP: $29.95
• Attaches with carabiner or magnetic plate attaches to most tents wand its breathable msrgear.com
mesh is useful when drying out damp gloves,
MSRP: $34.99 socks or hats. Easily attachable and zippered to
coleman.com keep things in place, this containment loft is a
must-have during any camping trip.
4 EUREKA CAMPING COT XL Features

Don’t relegate yourself to sleeping on the • Adjusts to nearly any tent
hard, cold ground. Elevate yourself and enjoy a • Lightweight mesh
comfortable night’s sleep on this heavy-duty • Zippered pocket
collapsible cot. The unit easily fits into most • Overhead out-of-the-way storage
tents and allows you to get the rest you need • Easy set up
to continue your adventures the next morning.
Constructed of 600D by 300D durable MSRP: $29.95
polyester fabric with a reinforced backing, this msrgear.com
MP-1708-BUYERS GUIDE.indd 97 6/21/17 3:04 AM

Ancient
GLOW
A TIME-TESTED, NO-BATTERIES-REQUIRED
EMERGENCY LIGHTING SOLUTION
By Kristi Cook
I
’m not a prepper in the strictest sense of the word.
I don’t stockpile hundreds of pounds of beans
and grains, nor do I collect MREs or maintain a
military-sized arsenal. I do, however, stockpile
skills my family will need in a grid-down situation or
other long-term disaster.
One of my favorite self-reliance skills is turning
ordinary animal fat, beeswax and paraffin into
emergency lighting that doesn’t require stashed
batteries, solar chargers or hand cranks.
MP-1708-CANDLE.CX.indd 98 6/27/17 4:57 AM


“Animal fat … is likely the most ancient candle base,
and … remains the most reliable …”
(above) Candles made

Choosing a Base
from beeswax burn
slower, but the wax Of all the possible candle bases, the
can be expensive and easiest to work with is paraffin. Available
difficult to source in commercially, its primary benefit is ease of
a crisis.
access during non-emergency times. Paraffin
(right) After trimming
as much tissue and produces a clean-burning candle with little to
meat from the fat as no smoke or odor, is relatively easy to release
possible, cut or from molds, and is good for containers, pillars
process the fat
and dipped tapers. Recycling candle stumps
into small pieces
to speed up the and container wax is an excellent way to
melting process. stretch paraffin supplies, and it’s a practice the
frugal pioneers employed daily.
Beeswax is another readily available candle
base in many areas, or it may be purchased
online. This natural wax has a higher melting
point than general-purpose paraffin and
animal fats, which creates a harder, slower-
burning candle. Beeswax candles emit a slight
honey smell and very little smoke with the

right wick. The most significant downside,
however, is its cost and potentially difficult
acquisition in abnormal circumstances.
Because of this, old-timers incorporated their
limited beeswax supply into their paraffin or
tallow/lard bases as a hardener to increase
MP-1708-CANDLE.CX1.indd 100 6/27/17 11:54 PM

[CANDLE MAKING]
RENDERING TALLOW OR LARD

Before you can make tallow or lard candles,
P STEP 3 P STEP 4
you must first remove the fat’s impurities. It’s
You can either wet or dry render. Dry Watch and listen for the fat to start hissing
simple to do, but it does take some time.
rendering involves slowly heating the fat and spitting. This is the fat releasing its
in a crockpot, skillet or pot with no water impurities, water, etc. You’ll see small
P STEP 1 added. The plus side is no concern over pieces—sometimes called cracklings—float
Obtain fat from any part of the animal. water remaining in the finished product to the top. Once all of the fat is melted,
However, leaf fat (fat from around the that may cause candles to go rancid. The remove from heat. I like to strain through
kidneys) is the hardest and cleanest. Trim downside is it can scorch easily if you heat a cheesecloth-lined colander immediately
off as much tissue, skin and other non-fat it too quickly. Wet rendering is the same before the fat begins to cool.
particles as you can. This is easier if the fat is as dry rendering, except you add about
almost frozen. ¼- to ½-cup water to the pan to prevent
P STEP 5
burning. If you let the fat render fully, the
Proceed with candle making at this point,
water will evaporate and won’t pose any
P STEP 2 or pour the hot fat into a skillet or cake pan
rancidity issues. In both methods, slowly
Cut fat into small pieces or toss into a food and allow to cool. Once it hardens, pop it
heat the fat, stirring periodically. You’ll
processor and pulse until it resembles out and freeze or leave in refrigerator for
notice changes as the fat begins to melt.
ground meat. later use.
This may take half an hour to several hours,
depending on the size of your batch.
MP-1708-CANDLE.indd 101 6/21/17 6:27 AM

The Candle-Making Process
P STEP 1 : Using a double boiler, place tallow/lard, beeswax or paraffin P STEP 4 : Once the base melts, add beeswax or stearic acid (if using),
into the pot. Be sure to use a pot that can be dedicated to candle making if and gently stir until fully melted.
you’re using beeswax or paraffin. Heat over medium heat until fully melted.
A thermometer is unnecessary for emergency candles since you’re not
P STEP 5 : Slowly pour wax into mold or container or begin making
concerned about blemishes.
dipped tapers.
P STEP 2 : While candle base is melting, cover workspace with paper to

P STEP 6: If making dipped tapers, dip quickly and hang wicking from
catch any drips, and set out/prepare molds and containers. Keep a set of
a rack until hardened. Repeat dipping multiple times until taper reaches
potholders handy in case you need to move the hot containers before the wax
desired width. Once completed and fully hardened, cut the nut from the
has time to cool.
end of the taper.
P STEP 3 : Cut wicking several inches longer than needed. Tie a hex nut or
P STEP 7 : For molds, allow wax to cool completely. Take mold apart
other small but heavy item to the end of the wick to keep the wick from floating
or lightly tap on hard surface to remove candle. Candles may be burned
in the container or curling when dipped. The hex nut will be removed from the
immediately or saved for later use. It’s best to store tallow- and/or lard-
hardened taper or recycled after the candle burns out. Alternatively, purchase wick
based candles in a dark, cool location such as an extra refrigerator, root
tabs and glue dots to fasten wicking to the bottom of the container. Use pencils,
cellar or basement to prevent softening during warm weather.
bamboo skewers or other items to keep the wick centered until the wax hardens.
MP-1708-CANDLE.indd 102 6/21/17 6:27 AM

[CANDLE MAKING]
burn time while minimizing their candle-
making costs.
Animal fat, which is my favorite, is likely
“Beeswax candles emit a slight
the most ancient candle base, and it remains
the most reliable material in times of need.
honey smell and very little
Essentially free to hunters and livestock
owners, any animal fat—sheep, elk, caribou,
smoke with the right wick.”
bear, etc.—may be used with mostly minor
differences. For instance, lard made from
pig fat tends to be softer, and thereby faster-
burning, than tallow from beef or venison. a very slight “food” smell when extinguised; (below, left) Tying hex nuts
or similar items to the ends
Just know that the softer the fat, the faster it however, this smell has never lingered more
of wicking when dipping
burns and the less likely it will make suitable than a few seconds. tapers helps to keep the
pillars or dipped candles, unless a hardener growing candles straight as
such as beeswax or commercially available Molds and Containers they harden. PHOTO BY KRISTI
COOK (below, right) Recycled
stearic acid is added. Instead, these softer fats Molds and containers may also be made
glass jars, soup cans and
are better suited for containers, which have from readily available materials. Cylindrical old cotton materials can
the added benefit of being nice and tidy with potato-chip containers, waxed drink boxes and be used to make sufficient
no wax leakage. As for smoking or odor, none even sturdy old paper-towel rolls will work. emergency lighting. PHOTO BY
that I’ve made to date have had either, except These will, of course, be one-use molds as KRISTI COOK
MP-1708-CANDLE.CX1.indd 103 6/27/17 11:54 PM

they’ll need to be pulled off the candle prior to is that each base and candle size requires a
lighting. Other options include PVC pipe sliced different type of wicking to produce the best
down the middle to make a two-piece mold. burn. Purchased wicking is more reliable than
Just duct tape the two pieces together with a hand-made wicks, as manufacturers have
piece of cardboard taped to the bottom. suggestions for which styles work best with
Once the wax hardens and cools, each particular wax/base. The exception,
cut the tape away and pull the candle however, is animal fat; most don’t list that
out. Or, if you’re preparing emergency base as an option. My general rule when using
lighting ahead of your time of need, tallow and lard is to use wicking made for
you can purchase pre-made molds to fit softer waxes, such as soy or vegan, yet this
any candle style. For container candles, doesn’t always work. For instance, I have some
almost any nonflammable container will zinc-core wicking that states it’s only good for
do. Old jelly jars, mason jars, soup cans paraffin wax, yet it works beautifully in my
and even sturdy heat-proof pottery work tallow containers. So, it’s best to experiment
nicely. Be creative, and you’ll find molds with a few small batches to determine which
and containers just about anywhere. wicking works best for your situation.
If, however, you’re unable to access pre-
The Wick made wicking, find sources of cotton material.
Wicking is, perhaps, the most difficult Old cotton clothing, bedsheets and even cotton
aspect of candle making. The problem yarn may be used. While the burn won’t be as

[CANDLE MAKING]
“If you let the fat render fully, the water

will evaporate and won’t pose any
rancidity issues …”
(above right) Container efficient as with pre-made wicking, handmade benefits and downsides, so it’s wise to have a PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGES
candles are a tidy option wicks work just fine when the need for variety whenever possible. For low light that
that’s especially safe and
emergency lighting strikes. Simply cut thin doesn’t travel far, small votives placed in a
useful when pets and small
children are present. strips of material, and braid or twist together mostly covered container work quite well.
tightly. Soak wicking for several minutes in For the brightest lighting, tapers and pillars
your candle base prior to making the candles, seem to work best in a glass, lantern-style
and allow to harden as straight as possible. If holder with reflectors. And yet, I like tin-can or
your lengths are long, you can then roll it into container candles best when little ones or pets
a loose ball for easy storage and cut as needed. are running underfoot.
Again, experimentation is key. However, in this
case, it’s best to experiment before a grid-down Let There be Light
situation occurs to build your handmade- Old-fashioned candle making is a fun and
wicking skills. That way, you’ll be sufficiently useful skill to have using materials you may
prepared in a crisis when resources are already have at home. When burning your own
extremely limited. creation, you’ll discover a sense of comfort
knowing you can fill the need for lighting in a
Choose a Style pinch, no matter the situation. Plus, it rekindles
Once you have everything in place, the ancient glow of our ancestors and the
determine if you want to make pillars, light source they always turned to long before
containers, tapers or votives. Each has its own flashlights and batteries were invented. MP

FATAL
ATTRACTION
HUNT NEAR IRRESISTIBLE FRUIT
TREES TO BAG YOUR NEXT
WHITETAIL
By Mike Yancey
PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY
MP-1708-WHITETAIL.CX.indd 106 6/28/17 12:16 PM

MP-1708-WHITETAIL.CX.indd 107 6/28/17 12:24 AM

[WHITETAIL]

E
Persimmons draw deer very step was carefully placed with all Persimmons are Money Spots
like magnets. Hunt near a
persimmon tree when the
attention focused on getting closer, In Arkansas, where I live, a whitetail’s life
fruit is ripe and get ready undetected, for a high-percentage shot revolves around the mast crop consisting of
for the action. with the longbow in my hand. With many oak varieties. But, in most years, the
each step, my excitement surged full-throttle. acorn drop happens a little later than the
I could feel my heart pounding swiftly as the persimmons, making this early-bearing fruit
moment’s intensity grew. tree a deer hotspot. The sweet fruit draws
My prey was feeding in the shade of a both does and fawns, as well as bachelor
large persimmon tree, totally unaware of my groups of bucks, daily until the acorns begin
presence. As the bowstring came back to my to fall.
anchor point, my wooden arrow departed Early-season whitetail hunting can be as
perfectly. The shot was clean, resulting in a exciting as the November rut, but only if you
quick kill. It was my first deer with a longbow! play your cards right and do some pre-season
Fruit trees are a whitetail’s weak spot, and scouting. Unlike the rut-crazed bucks that you
you can exploit that weakness this fall and fill deal with later in fall, early-season whitetails
your freezer with precious red meat. have but one thing on their minds: food. Food
BOLSTER THE YIELD:

Fruit Trees and Fertilizer
An easy way to manage land for whitetails is to fertilize fruit and one that has not. They’ll visit the fertilized tree first.
trees in late winter or early spring that you intend to hunt near in By applying fertilizer all around the limb line of your chosen
fall. A quality fertilizer mix applied this time of year will make your tree, every plant and vine in the area will benefit from the minerals
fruit tree the most alluring in the area for miles, and deer will know applied, which, in turn, will make them more palatable to the
it. I’ve seen it time after time: Fertilized trees draw deer when there browsing deer in the area. Every winter and spring, I apply about
are dozens just like it within sight and dropping fruit at the same 2 gallons of 13-13-13 fertilizer to trees that I hunt. My efforts have
time. They can taste the difference in one that has been fertilized been proven worthwhile.
MP-1708-WHITETAIL.indd 108 6/21/17 6:01 AM

MP_1708_109 6/16/17 3:29 AM Page 109
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[WHITETAIL]
“A quality fertilizer mix … will make your fruit tree

the most alluring in the area for miles …”
sources are, at times, difficult to identify. But,
I can help straighten the learning curve.
I’ve been blessed to hunt the same
persimmon tree on my parent’s farm for
more than 40 years now. In that time, it has
produced more early-season deer for my dad
and me than you could ever imagine. The tree
is located in a perfectly formed funnel where
a farm road and two fence corners meet. But,
the special thing about this tree is that it’s
an American persimmon, which, during the
40-plus years that I’ve hunted it, failed to
produce fruit only one year.
Exploit the Predictability

If left undisturbed, early-season deer are
as predictable as tax season; you can almost
set your clock by their daily movements.
With some game cameras placed in a few
well-scouted areas, you can track these
patterns and formulate a solid opening-day
plan. Be sure to consider prevailing winds

when strategizing ambush locations, always
hunting on the downwind side of where deer
travel and feed.
Oftentimes, deer will visit persimmon
trees religiously and at the same time each
day because they feel safe and undisturbed.
Don’t wreck that pattern by hanging a stand Although most deer populations rely on mast like the acorns dropped from oak trees, they
and dispersing scent one week before season. enjoy sweet, ripe fruit and will go out of their way to frequent any trees dropping produce
in their area.
Instead, do it in winter or spring. Why?
Traditional
Bowhunting
and Flintlock
Rifle Hunting
Early-season whitetail hunting
in most states means either
archery or muzzleloader seasons.
Both of these seasons are prime
times to hunt fruit-bearing trees.
An added advantage is that
flintlock rifles and traditional
bows are close-range weapons.
The beauty of a fruit-tree setup

is that you know where your shot
will be, and you can place your
stand an ideal distance away.

MP_1708_111 6/22/17 4:38 AM Page 111
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“My prey was
feeding in the
shade of a large
persimmon tree,
totally unaware of
my presence.”
Persimmons aren’t dropping fruit during this

time, so you can go in without pestering the
deer and do your work, then return months
later to hunt undisturbed deer on opening
day. When setting up ambushes, be sure to
trim shooting lanes.
Predictability is the aspect I love most
about early-season hunting. Deer haven’t
experienced weeks of hunting pressure. All
you must do is learn when persimmon trees
start producing the fruit that draws them
year after year. Mature does know every tree
in the area, and will train their young in their
uses. Bachelor groups of bucks also visit
PINE HOLLOW persimmon trees, and I prefer to target them,
Custom Longbows although a fine-eating doe is hard to pass up.
Access is Key
Through my company, Pine Hollow, I produce high-quality hunting bows designed to
provide years of performance, as well as the simplistic beauty of a bow handcrafted When targeting a specific persimmon
from all-natural products. I limit orders each year so I can build a bow that meets my tree to hunt, I always consider stand access.
standards. I will not rush. I take my time so I can build the best possible bow.
Oftentimes, easy-access trees are located
These are the three custom bows I offer: on farms that have daily chores/activities
where human scent abounds, unlike a
CHEYENNE
The Cheyenne is Pine Hollow’s shortest Osage bow, perfectly suited for use in confined wilderness-type setup. Nevertheless, you
spaces like treestands and ground blinds. Because of its compact design, it’s deflexed for still must approach carefully when you
smoothness, then reflexed to add a little zip to the cast. These bows normally run 52-54
hunt. The weather is often very warm in the
inches in length, but requests for specific lengths are welcomed.
MSRP: $1,200 early days of archery season, and you want
to leave an area as undisturbed by human
MEDICINE MAN
The Medicine Man is Pine Hollow’s original Osage flatbow. They’re normally either non-
scent as possible. If you have to fight through
backed or backed with rawhide only, however, they can be sinew-backed, if you like. They brush and walk long distances to access a
normally run 60-66 inches. They have no built-in deflex, but will naturally settle in a bit, stand, you’ll surely cause commotion and
so the limb tips are reflexed to get the best performance. The Medicine Man is a very
stable, easy-to-shoot hunting bow. contaminate the area with excess human
MSRP: $1,200 scent. This will likely change their pattern,
making them unpredictable.
GHOST DANCER FLATBOW
Like the Medicine Man, the Ghost Dancer is an Osage flatbow, but under the rawhide
backing is a sinew power layer. Ghost Dancer bows normally measure 60-66 inches. Due Pears, Another Solid Bet
to the sinew backing, they generally don’t settle in as much as the Medicine Man, but Pine
Hollow still reflexes the tips to get the best performance the wood and sinew offer. Pound
Pear trees located on farms and abandoned
for pound, this is Pine Hollow’s hardest-hitting bow. homesteads are also common in my area,
MSRP: $1,200 and are equally as productive as persimmons.
For more information, visit pinehollowlongbows.com. Apple trees might be available in your area,
too. Really, any fruit-bearing tree can be

[WHITETAIL]
MP-1702-Grace Holt-Atabase 12/22/16 11:39 AM Page 1
Yancey happily arrowed this doe for the

freezer while hunting near an old, reliable
persimmon tree. PHOTO BY MIKE YANCEY
dynamite in early season, and you

must capitalize when the fruit
is ripe and dropping. These few
weeks can be outstanding, but you
must get out there, regardless of
heat and insects.
When the Fruit Drops Late

So far, we’ve primarily
addressed early-season hunting,
but if you locate a tree that’s
producing fruit and drawing deer
later in the season as the rut
approaches, does and fawns will
likely be regulars, and soon the
mature bucks will scent-check
the area downwind of the fruit
tree for a hot doe. At this time,
anything can happen. You may
even encounter a buck you didn’t
know existed.
Of course, bucks aren’t as
predictable during the pre-rut, but
they’ll be there sooner or later. You
might not be on stand when he
comes by checking, and he might
never return. That’s why you must
seize every opportunity to hunt fruit
trees while they’re producing. MP

• SURVIVAL •
MP-1708-COLD.indd 114 6/22/17 3:13 AM

The
CHILL
That Kills
Hypothermia’s cold hard facts
F
or most people, being cold is uncomfortable, yet tolerable.
Goose bumps may rise on their skin, their limbs and teeth
may tremble or their bodies can experience “the chills,” but
it usually ends there. Wearing warmer clothing, increasing
the heat within their home or sipping warm beverages can help
raise their body’s internal temperature back to normal. However, not
everyone is so lucky.
Unexpected events like being stranded in the wild, wearing
clothing saturated by an unforeseen rainstorm, or accidentally
falling into a river or pond can bring on a time-sensitive killer
called hypothermia. Once this dealer of death has you in its grip, it’s
difficult to escape, but not impossible.
The key to surviving this seemingly unsolvable problem lies not
only in understanding the physical stages of death by cold, but by also
learning preventive measures.
MP-1708-COLD.indd 115 6/22/17 3:13 AM

Stealthy Killer
Unfortunately, many people think
hypothermia can only happen in arctic-style
conditions where snow, sleet and intense cold
weather are present. This is totally untrue. In
fact, believing this fallacy can lead people to
underestimate weather conditions, allowing
this stealthy killer to creep up on them when
and where they least expect it.
Normal body temperature is 98.6°F.
Hypothermia, by definition, occurs when the
human body loses heat faster than it can
produce it, causing dangerously low body
temperatures. It only takes a drop of a few
degrees to instigate this deadly condition.
As such, and sometimes difficult to believe,
PHOTO COURTESY OF BIGSTOCK

hypothermia can strike people in climates
such as tropical islands, jungles and even
in the heart of a desert. It’s the conditions
that are all around you that matter and must
be considered, not just the temperature
of your surroundings. Other catalysts that
A roaring fire can help reduce the chances of hypothermia taking over your body. Drinking
bring on hypothermia can include abstract
warm beverages and layering your clothing also goes a long way to keep you warm.
characteristics such as a person’s age and
overall medical condition, damp or wet attire,
“… elevate yourself off the local wind speed and direction, or just plain
lack of preparation.
ground when sleeping. The Warning Signs
cold earth will sap your body Unfortunately, many people who fall victim
to hypothermia don’t realize it’s happening
heat at an alarming rate …” until it’s too late. Of course, everyone shivers
Although hypothermia is mostly known to

strike in winter-like environments, it can
affect a person in the jungle, tropics or even
the desert.
MP-1708-COLD.indd 116 6/22/17 3:13 AM

[HYPOTHERMIA]
when they’re cold, whether outside in a
makeshift camp or inside an under-heated
home. However, few realize that shivering is
the initial stage of hypothermia because, in
most instances, they’ll stop the shivering by
Undressing
either adding more clothing layers or building
a fire to get warm.
to Get Warm?
For those without these options, their bodies Alarmingly, 20-50% of hypothermia
proceed to stage two, which is the state of victims die after paradoxical undressing.
confused thinking and poor decision making. This is a state of hypothermia that occurs
As the body gets colder and a person’s core during the moderate to severe stage in
temperature drops, their mental faculties begin which the unfortunate victim inexplicably
to deteriorate. This can lead a person to take discards their clothing, which increases
risks, which can cause further problems aside their body’s rate of temperature loss.
from hypothermia’s onset. The person under this strange influence
Some people have been known to strip is usually confused, disorientated and
sometimes combative and aggressive.
off their clothes during this confused state,
Theories vary as to why this happens.
further increasing the rate at which their core
One suggests that the part of the
temperature drops. They become clumsier
brain that regulates temperature, the
than normal, and risk injury from falls or
hypothalamus, malfunctions during
other mishaps. Their coordination decreases, extreme cold weather; while another
which can cause them to incur injuries from suggests that contracted blood vessels
using knives or other sharp tools, and their can suddenly relax, releasing a surge of
overall body movements become sluggish blood and heat, tricking the victim into
and lethargic. thinking their body is overheating. No
From there, their breathing will slow, their matter what causes this unique, yet deadly
pulse will weaken, and they will progressively characteristic of hypothermia, it can be
lose consciousness. At this point, the worst avoided if precautions are taken before one
will happen: They will perish. It’s crucial that ventures outside, and to never allow your
everyone understand these stages, because fragile body to reach those dangerous and
once a person’s thinking is affected by the ultimately deadly levels of cold.
severe body-temperature drop, it’s very difficult
PHOTO COURTESY OF BIGSTOCK
An unfortunate road accident can

put you in a life or death fight
with hypothermia.
MP-1708-COLD.indd 117 6/22/17 3:13 AM

for them to employ a logical solution before it’s
too late.
Warming Up
At the onset of hypothermia, your method of
fighting this silent killer is, of course, to warm
yourself up. Your first line of defense is layering
your clothing. Proper layering, as opposed to
wearing one thick piece of clothing, will keep
your body temperature warm when you’re
exposed to the cold. The preferred method
of layering consists of a wicking layer: a type
of polyester that keeps your skin dry. This is
followed by wool or other insulating fabric
that breathes, yet provides excellent warmth.
The last part of layering is a waterproof and
windproof outer layer, which will keep you dry
in wet conditions. You can always add more
layers, if needed, and be sure to carry spare
clothing in case you unexpectedly get wet.
A bivvy can reduce the chances of hypothermia. Used in conjunction with a sleeping bag,
Avoid cotton clothing. Cotton breathes too
it can reflect nearly 90% of your own body heat. PHOTO COURTESY OF S.O.L SURVIVE OUTDOORS LONGER much, doesn’t insulate well, and takes too long
to dry when wet.
Of course, kindling a fire during your time
“… hypothermia can be avoided outdoors can take away the chill and keep you
cozy throughout the night. Be sure to carry
if you escape the elements and more than one method to start a fire; experts
suggest stocking at least five different items.
wait out storms, or even fierce Wet matches, a broken lighter or stubborn
winds, under a durable shelter.”

tinder can cause undue stress while trying to
get warm. Remember, have a back-up for your
Few people imagine that a desert can be a location where

hypothermia is a real possibility. Its dramatic temperature
extremes can catch unprepared visitors by surprise and
cause the worst-case scenario to occur.
MP-1708-COLD.indd 118 6/22/17 3:13 AM

[HYPOTHERMIA]
back-up, and your chances of survival from
hypothermia will increase.
Finally, wind is your foe. If you’re even
slightly wet, fierce or even slow, steady winds
can further reduce your core temperature.
Create a wind block with whatever materials
you have, and don’t move from there until
it subsides.
Furthermore, when camped, elevate yourself
off the ground when sleeping. The cold earth
will sap your body heat at an alarming rate. This stylish
necklace also
Build an elevated bed, if possible, or create a doubles as a
thick mattress of leaves, brush or other natural handy fire starter.
insulation materials. Many new visitors to Secured around
the outdoors don’t realize that an elevated your neck, you’ll
always have it
platform, when sleeping under the stars, is just nearby and ready
as important as—if not more than— creating to use.
a cover over your head. Often, people sleeping
on the cold ground don’t realize that heat is PHOTO COURTESY OF WAZOO
Hand and foot warmers can
SURVIVAL GEAR
being extracted from their bodies while they help take the chill out of
sleep, making them susceptible to moderate or your extremities. Frostbite
mixed with hypothermia
advanced hypothermia. is a dangerous and deadly
combination.
Inexpensive, disposable
Medical Intervention
lighters can be a lifesaver
Hypothermia is a medical condition that when a fire is needed to
PHOTOS COURTESY OF COGHLAN’S
requires professional medical assistance to literally keep you alive.

treat. If you encounter someone suffering Think simple, and always
carry a lighter!
from any stage of hypothermia, alert medical
authorities immediately. However, while you PHOTO COURTESY OF
THINKSTOCK
wait for them, there are some things you can
do to assist in their recovery. If the person
MP-1708-COLD.indd 119 6/22/17 3:13 AM

[HYPOTHERMIA]
“Once this dealer of death Second, consider possible emergency

scenarios that you might face during your
has you in its grip, it’s difficult outing, and plan accordingly how you would
be rescued if such situations actually happen.
to escape …” Alert others of your outdoor plans, and agree
upon set times that you’ll check in with them.
If you fail to check in, then they’ll know you
has no pulse and you are skilled in CPR (true need help and will seek the proper search-and-
CPR training, not just an idea of how to do it), rescue personnel.
administer the technique until you feel a pulse. Shelter choice is also a top priority, because
However, if the person is breathing, remove hypothermia can be avoided if you escape the
any cold or wet clothing, wrap the victim in elements and wait out storms, or even fierce
dry, warm blankets and be sure to lift them off winds, under a durable shelter. Thinking that
the cold floor or bare earth, and immediately you can create one on a moment’s notice out
get them to a warmer area. in the woods is not only foolish, but a sure
way to die as your core temperature drops to
Be Smart and Consider the Risks extremely dangerous levels.
Although hypothermia is a very real Natural shelters, including overhanging
condition that, at times, can’t be avoided, you rock formations and large caves or manmade
can and should plan as thoroughly as possible dwellings, such as abandoned houses or barns,
to avoid this slow harbinger of death. Your are perfect to escape nature’s pounding. In
first line of defense is to view the weather a pinch, a tube tent, waterproof tarp or even
forecast for the area you’ll be frequenting. a strung-up plastic poncho can help keep
Know if rain or wind storms are expected, as moisture, and eventually hypothermia, away
well as the current and extreme temperature from you until the sun shines again.
variations that you might encounter. These Now that you understand how hypothermia
forecasts will assist you in choosing the can kill without warning, be prepared for
proper attire, including any hats, gloves or anything and make wise decisions. It could
water-resistant clothing. save you from the chill that kills. MP
Not all Drinks are Created Equal

Recovering from hypothermia takes time. It
shouldn’t be rushed to speed up the process.
Sipping certain beverages, when instructed
by a medical professional, can be a step in
the right direction. But which ones? There are
some major dos and don’ts when administering
liquids to help a hypothermia victim.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
The benefits of drinking alcoholic beverages
is a myth that must be avoided when nursing
a hypothermia victim back to health. Even
though liquor will feel warm when consumed
as it travels down the throat, it actually
pulls heat away from the body’s core and
inhibits the body from properly warming back
up. Avoid alcohol until the person is fully
recovered and ready to celebrate their victory.
WARM TEA
A warm tea beverage will feel great to the
hypothermic victim, but it won’t go far to mild vasodilator and draw blood from the HOT CHOCOLATE
help raise their core temperature. If the tea is extremities, resulting in a somewhat colder Even though the warm liquid will feel
sweetened with sugar or honey, however, the core, thus harming, as opposed to helping, good to the victim, the actual heat from
simple carbohydrates will kick-start the body’s the victim. the beverage won’t do very much good to
ability to get warm, so it’s not a bad choice. warm up their core temperature
SODA (the quantity is far too little). However,
COFFEE Cold and caffeinated? Not a good the simple sugars in the hot chocolate
A hot coffee sounds like a great way to choice. Only the sugars in the soda may be will begin to get the patient’s internal
warm a hypothermic person, but beware. beneficial, but it’s not worth the tradeoff of its furnace ignited again and start the
If the coffee is caffeinated, it may act as a overwhelmingly negative effects. Avoid it. warming process.
MP-1708-COLD.indd 120 6/22/17 3:14 AM

MP_1708_121 6/16/17 3:37 AM Page 121
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• GENERAL •
Especially popular in
Texas and Louisiana,
gumbo was first
introduced to
America by Creole
and Cajun settlers of
French heritage.
MP-1708-STEW.CX.indd 122 6/27/17 5:13 AM

HISTORIC
STEWS
Unique, region-specific
tastes from around
the U.S.
By Michael Pendley
T
raditional meat stews have existed
since before the written word. Hunter-
gatherers worldwide would boil what
they could find in a hollowed rock, an animal
skin or, later, in clay pots. Different regions of
the world developed different styles of stew
using local ingredients.
As the United States was settled, immigrants
from around the world arrived here with their
own stew recipes. They used the same recipes
with ingredients from their new home to make
new regional dishes. While these new stews
feature distinct ingredients, they share a few
similarities, too. Chief among these is the
inclusion of locally sourced meat and produce.
Since these stews were often meant to feed
a large crowd, they regularly included several
meats, with each family supplying a small
amount of whatever was on hand.
Because of this community involvement,
cooking up stew drew crowds from all around.
In time, these gatherings became regular
festivals. Recipes were further refined, and
regional dishes were born. Let’s sample some
of these regional stews and their origins, and
I’ll provide a few recipes for you and your
family to try at home.
MP-1708-STEW.CX.indd 123 6/27/17 5:13 AM

“Owing to its French roots, [booyah] is
flavored with fresh herbs.”
REGIONAL AMERICAN STEWS October is booyah-festival season

throughout Wisconsin. Folks at many of these
Booyah gatherings cook pots of booyah up to 100
Hailing from the upper Midwest, immigrants gallons in size, slow-simmered for a day or
from Belgium developed booyah from the more, before the festival even begins.
French word “bouillon.” Like most stews,
booyah starts with a stock base. Traditional Burgoo
meats for the stew include beef short ribs, Move a bit south from traditional booyah
chicken and often pork. locales and you find burgoo. Popular in Ohio,
Fresh local vegetables—peas, celery, onions, Illinois and Kentucky, burgoo is another stew
carrots, cabbage, tomatoes, potatoes and that’s popular for large gatherings. Traditional
rutabagas—were added to the meat base. meats for burgoo included pork, mutton,
Owing to its French roots, the stew is flavored chicken, rabbit, venison and squirrel. Today,
(opposite) A large pot of
burgoo simmers slowly
with fresh herbs. Traditionally, the stew was burgoo recipes often omit the wild game, some
over an open fire. Long on cooked in a large booyah pot, often holding 30 might say to the finished recipe’s detriment.
tomatoes and vegetables, gallons or more, over an open fire. Unlike some other regional stews, burgoo
burgoo usually contains a Interestingly, the term “booyah” also meats were often slow-smoked over hickory
mixture of meats, includ-
ing barbecued mutton.
describes the social event surrounding the before being added to the pot.
PHOTO BY MARK MAESTLE dish. These parties often last days, while While the origins of burgoo are murky at
the stew takes as long as 36-48 hours to best, there’s a fairly reliable record of French
(below) Local produce adds cook. Residents from around the area supply chef Gustave Jaubert. After serving General
distinction to regional
stew recipes throughout
produce from their gardens or larders and John Hunt Morgan in the Civil War, Jaubert was
the United States . take turns watching over the fire as the stew hired as the company cook for what today is
slowly simmers. Buffalo Trace Distillery, then known as the Old
MP-1708-STEW.indd 124 6/21/17 4:36 AM

[STEW]
MP-1708-STEW.indd 125 6/21/17 4:36 AM

(top) The Burgoo House at Buffalo Trace Distillery still houses the two giant, wood-
fired burgoo pots that were used to feed the employees and distillery guests. PHOTO BY Fired Copper Distillery. Jaubert’s fame quickly
CHERYL PENDLEY (below) Some claim that the first Brunswick stew was made on St. Simon
Island, Georgia, in 1898. PHOTO BY MICHAEL RIVERA
spread, and his burgoo came to be in high
demand for large social events.
One such event was covered by the
Louisville Courier-Journal and reprinted in
The New York Times, where the recipe was
described as containing, “400 pounds of beef,
six dozen chickens, four dozen rabbits, thirty
cans of tomatoes, twenty dozen cans of corn,
fifteen bushels of potatoes, and five bushels
of onions.”
The article noted that Jaubert, assisted by 10
cooks, slow-simmered 1,000 gallons of burgoo
over a period of days. The resulting burgoo was
served alongside barbecued meats, a tradition
that lives on today in multiple burgoo festivals
around the region.
The Burgoo House still stands at Buffalo
Trace, along with two of Jaubert’s large burgoo
pots and a copy of Master Distiller Albert
Blanton’s favorite burgoo recipe from the late-
1800s. Interestingly, Blanton’s recipe included
an astounding 26 ingredients.
Today, almost all burgoo recipes contain
smoked mutton. Regional areas of Kentucky
have become known for cooking the
strongly flavored meat, and its gamy flavor
has transferred to the stew the area
has perfected.
MP-1708-STEW.indd 126 6/21/17 4:36 AM

[STEW]
Brunswick Stew
Head east and south from burgoo country
and you find Brunswick stew. Both Brunswick
County, Virginia, and Brunswick, Georgia,
take credit for the dish’s invention. While
the Georgia version claims an origin date of
1898, the Virginia claim boasts an even earlier
date of 1828 when it was first concocted at a
hunting camp. A third possible beginning for
Brunswick stew lies with the Native Americans
of the region, who were cooking and eating a
similar stew of local ingredients long before
the first European settlers arrived.
Regardless of its origin, both stews are
tomato-based, heavy on lima or butter beans,
and both versions started with wild game.
The two stews differ in the use of potatoes.
The North Carolina version uses potatoes to
thicken the stew, while the Georgia version
is thinner. Along with its thickened base,
the North Carolina recipe also uses smoked
pork as the principle meat, lending an overall
smokier flavor. Both versions often incorporate
beef, chicken or other meats.
Like burgoo and booyah, numerous festivals
are held throughout both states each fall.
Cookers for each festival show up a day or two
before the start date to build fires and begin
cooking the stews in gigantic cast-iron kettles.
Unlike the stews popular in the north,

Brunswick stew often incorporates okra.
Regional vegetables like okra are one of the
defining characteristics in the area-specific
stews of the United States.
Gumbo
Move southwest of the Brunswick stew area
to the swamps of east Texas and Louisiana,
and you find perhaps America’s most well
known regional stew. Born from a mixture of BURGOO
the French-heritage Creole and Cajun settlers
Yield: Serves 15-20; recipe can be cut in half to server fewer people
of the area and their love of roux, and the
native Choctaws and their use of powdered filé
(dried and ground sassafras leaves), even the 2 pounds beef shank (bone-in) DIRECTIONS
word “gumbo” is derived from the West African 1 4-pound chicken, quartered
word for okra, a central ingredient in many
gumbo recipes.
8 quarts cold water
1 ½ pounds potatoes, diced 1 Simmer beef shanks and
chicken in 8 quarts of water for
Perhaps no other stew has as many 3 onions, diced one to two hours, then remove from
variations as gumbo. Depending on the cook, 1 bunch carrots, peeled and thickly pot to cool, shred meat from bone
gumbo may contain either local meats or sliced
and set aside.
seafood. One thing all gumbo recipes share 2 green bell peppers, seeded and
is a start with a dark roux, which is simply a chopped
mixture of flour and fat or oil, cooked over low
heat and constantly stirred until it becomes a
2 cups chopped cabbage
1 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
2 Return stock to a boil, and then
add potatoes, onions, carrots,
bell peppers, cabbage, tomatoes,
deep mahogany brown. Walk away while the 2 cups whole corn, fresh or canned
corn, okra, lima beans and celery.
roux cooks, and it can burn instantly. 2 cups sliced okra (frozen is fine)
Cook one hour.
Once the roux is finished, the meat for 1 15.5-ounce can lima beans
gumbo can be seafood, wild game or sausage 1 cup celery, diced
and chicken. Generally, sausage can be added 1 pound barbecued pulled pork
to any gumbo, but seafoods generally aren’t
mixed with other meats. The cooking liquid
1 pound barbecued mutton (smoked
and shredded)
3 Add beef, chicken, pork and
mutton to pot. Simmer for
another hour or two. Add bourbon,
is also the center of some controversy. Some 1 cup Kentucky bourbon
Worcestershire and Tabasco sauces.
recipes call for tomatoes, while other gumbo 2 tablespoons Tabasco sauce
Season to taste with salt and pepper
cooks say stock is the only way to go, and a 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
and serve.
true gumbo cook would never use tomatoes. Salt and pepper
Filé or okra can be used as a thickener. Other
MP-1708-STEW.CX.indd 127 6/27/17 5:13 AM

(top) A cast-iron pot over an open fire is a classic way to make any of these regional
stews. The smoke helps flavor the stew, giving it a more traditional taste versus stew
made on a cooktop. (below) Mark Maestle tends a pot of burgoo. The stew slowly recipes don’t call for an additional thickener, simply
simmers over an open fire for hours. PHOTO BY MARK MAESTLE relying on the flour from the roux to add body to
the gumbo. Regardless of the recipe, gumbos are
usually served over a bowl of white rice.
The Pot
Since most of these regional stews were
first designed to feed large gatherings, they
were initially cooked in giant iron kettles over
open fires. While not many of us are feeding
hundreds of people at a time these days, cast
iron is still the way to go when it comes to
cooking these dishes.
A Dutch oven holds enough to feed a large
family or make plenty of leftovers to freeze for
later. If your recipe contains lots of high-acid
tomatoes, an enameled Dutch oven is best.
Whether well-seasoned cast iron or enamel-
coated, these pots will hold an even heat at
low temperatures over just about any heat
source, from kitchen range to campfire.
Fine Dining
Making hearty and historic stews like
the ones I’ve outlined here is a great way
to preserve cultural heritage in our modern
society, and they taste phenomenal, too. Try
them; I believe you’ll agree. MP
MP-1708-STEW.indd 128 6/21/17 4:36 AM

MP-1708-Bradford 4/21/17 9:50 AM Page 1
[STEW]
Duck and Sausage Gumbo

Yield: Serves 5-7
4 duck or goose breasts (or two stirring. The flour will quickly go
whole ducks, quartered) from white to toasted-almond color.
¾ cup peanut or vegetable oil Keep stirring. As the roux darkens,
1 cup Kentucky Colonel or your the texture will change, going from
favorite brand of seasoned flour grainy to smooth. When the roux is
2 bell peppers, seeded and diced slightly darker than smooth peanut
2 stalks celery, diced butter (15-20 minutes), add the bell
2 medium white onions, diced peppers, celery and onions. Stir to
1 pound spicy smoked sausage, cut coat everything well with the
into ¾-inch-thick slices browned roux. Continue cooking,
2 cloves garlic, minced stirring constantly, until the
2 quarts water vegetables begin to soften. Return
1 quart chicken stock the fowl to the pot. Add the sausage
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning and garlic. Stir well.
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon tomato paste
2 teaspoons filé powder (available
in the spice aisle) 3 Pour in water and chicken
stock. Add the Cajun
Salt and pepper seasoning, bay leaves, tomato paste
and filé powder. Turn up heat and
bring gumbo to a simmer. Reduce
DIRECTIONS heat, cover the pot and simmer for
at least two hours.
1 Season the fowl well with

salt and pepper. Heat oil over
medium-high heat. Brown the meat
in batches, stirring and flipping until 4 To serve, spoon some cooked
white rice into a bowl and
all sides are deep golden brown and ladle over the gumbo. Enjoy the
slightly crispy. gumbo with a chunk of crusty
French bread to sop up the juice.
2 Move the browned meat

to a warm platter and add
the seasoned flour to the oil left in
the pan. Stir to coat the flour in oil.
Reduce heat to medium and keep
MP-1708-STEW.indd 129 6/21/17 4:37 AM

[ past pioneering ]
Alexander Mackenzie (1764 -1820)
Fur Trader and Explorer
> By Darryl Quidort
TWELVE YEARS BEFORE LEWIS AND CLARK against rapids and a swift current.
made their historic overland trip to the Pacific Along the river, they met Indians who’d never
Ocean, explorer Alexander Mackenzie had already seen a white man. An old Indian told Alexander that
attained that goal, though documentation of his at the headwaters of the river a portage would take
journey isn’t nearly as widespread. them over the divide to a large river flowing west.
The information was correct, but the route was long
Born to Explore and exhausting. After they reached the divide, small
Born in Scotland, Alexander arrived in New York streams led west to a larger river. Alexander wrote,
in 1774 as a 10-year-old boy. His mother had died, “After all our toil and anxiety, the inexpressible
and a severe economic depression prompted his satisfaction of finding ourselves on the bank of a
father to leave Scotland and seek his fortune in the navigable river on the West side of the great range
American Colonies. Within months of their arrival, of mountains.”
the American War for Independence broke out. His That river proved to be so fast and dangerous
father joined the British Army to fight against the that he named it Bad River (now the Fraser River).
patriots. The son of a Loyalist, young Alexander They lost their canoe when it capsized, and the
was sent to Montreal (Quebec, Canada) for his men narrowly escaped drowning. After four days of
safety. There, he entered an apprenticeship with walking downstream, they met Indians who advised
Finlay, Gregory & Company, a fur-trading concern PHOTO IS PUBLIC DOMAIN VIA WIKIPEDIA them to turn around for they would certainly be
that eventually became the powerful North West killed by natives downstream.
Company (NWC). these waters must empty themselves into the
As a physically strong young man craving Northern Ocean.” He was correct. They soon Persistence Pays
adventure, Alexander did well in the fur-trading reached the edges of a vast, icebound body Alexander had to backtrack upstream and take
business. Favorably impressed, his employers of saltwater, the Arctic Ocean. On July 16, they an Indian trail over to the Bella Coola River. There
offered Alexander a share in the company. As they turned around and raced the coming winter back they found a well-traveled Indian trail that led to
looked farther north and west for new sources upstream, reaching Fort Chipewyan on Sept. 12. the friendly Bella Coola Indians. With borrowed
of valuable furs, he was sent to a fort on the The round trip was more than 3,000 miles, and was canoes, they again started toward the ocean.
Athabasca River. completed in only 102 days. They came upon curious Indian houses built up
The NWC’s ambitions to secure valuable furs Although Alexander had explored and mapped a on stilts. “From these houses, I could perceive the
played an important part in Alexander’s future large, previously unexplored area, he was frustrated termination of the river, and its discharge into … the
explorations of uncharted territory. The company by his failure to find a northwest passage. He called sea,” wrote Alexander.
submitted to the Governor of Quebec its the big river, which was more than 1,000 miles long, He used his instruments to find his position, and
intention “of exploring … between the latitudes the Disappointment River (now the Mackenzie before leaving, he mixed vermilion paint and wrote
of 55, and 65, all that tract of country extending River). Without a northwest passage, the exploration on a large rock the famous inscription: “Alexander
west of Hudson’s Bay to the North Pacific was of little practical use to the company. However, Mackenzie, from Canada, by land, the twenty-
Ocean.” The NWC planned to fill in the empty Alexander wasn’t throwing in the towel. second of July, one thousand seven hundred and
spaces on the map while in search of furs. ninety-three.” The first overland journey across
Second Attempt North America had been completed.
A Promotion Three years later, on Oct. 10, 1792, he started up Alexander arrived back at Fort Chipewyan on
In 1788, Alexander was promoted and sent to the Peace River from Fort Chipewyan in a 25-foot Aug. 24, 1793, after completing a journey of more
build Fort Chipewyan on Lake Athabasca’s south canoe with 3,000 pounds of cargo and 10 people than 2,300 miles in 117 days through unexplored
shore. He was also ordered to explore the large aboard. This time, Alexander’s cousin, Alexander wilderness. Once again, he brought his crew home
river flowing out of Lake Athabasca in hopes of MacKay, six voyageur paddlers and two Indian safely, and kept peaceful relations with the Indians
finding a possible northwest passage to the Pacific hunters accompanied him. They ascended the he’d met. With determination and perseverance, he
Ocean. This would open up a much shorter route Peace River to the junction of the Smokey River found his northwest passage. However, the route
to the fur-trading markets in the Orient. Alexander where they built a small fort to overwinter. proved too difficult for others to follow.
undoubtedly welcomed the assignment. He In spring 1793, they continued up the Peace
ranked, “the practicability of penetrating across the River where it became more and more dangerous. One Remarkable Explorer
continent of America [as] this favorite project of my Entering the Peace River Canyon, they found it so Alexander Mackenzie was knighted by King George
own ambition.” treacherous that they had to line the entire canoe. III in 1802, and recognized as “leader of the first
Alexander wrote in his journal, “as we proceeded, expedition to cross the North American continent
Birch-Bark Voyage the rapidity of the river’s current increased so that from Atlantic to Pacific north of Mexico.” Surveyors
On June 3, 1789, Alexander left Fort Chipewyan in the distance of two miles we were obliged to later found the rock painting and deeply inscribed the
on his inaugural discovery voyage. Several birch- unload four times and carry everything.” By scouting words to preserve them. The area is now within the
bark canoes carried his group of voyageurs and ahead, they learned that the river was impassible. Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park. MP
native hunters. Traveling down the river to Great They carried the cargo up the cliffs to the top, then
Slave Lake was difficult because of dangerous returned to winch the big canoe up with ropes.
rapids. Then, ice delayed them as they found the The portage around the canyon was long and
big lake still frozen over. When they found the exhausting. The men complained and wanted to Sources:
outlet, and left the lake on a large river, progress quit and go back, but Alexander was a great leader Dictionary of Biography, Mackenzie, Sir Alexander
downstream was swift. and encouraged them to continue. Back on the river Canadahistory.com/Mackenzie
In his journal, Alexander wrote, “it is evident and above the canyon, they continued to paddle Bella Coola Tours, Journey of Alexander Mackenzie
MP-1708-PAST.indd 130 6/21/17 4:06 AM

MP_1708_C3 6/16/17 3:12 AM Page C3
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THIRST NO MORE: TAP INTO GROUNDWATER BY HAND

SALVAGE TAKE DOWN

HOW-TO U.S. $8.99

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“I love the sounds and the power of pounding water,

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DARRON MCDOUGAL

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FEATURES GENERAL HUNTING/SHOOTING

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PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIMEDIA

So, You Think You Know George Washington

2. High School Dropout?

5. Sweet Home Philadelphia

6 | MODERN PIONEER | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK

Camping’s Greatest Hits

PHOTO COURTESY OF THINKSTOCK

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 | MODERN PIONEER | 7

MP-1706-POST.indd 7 6/21/17 12:28 AM

History’s First Shotgun

PHOTO BY DARRYL QUIDORT

8 | MODERN PIONEER | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

MP-1708-DIY.indd 8 6/21/17 3:46 AM

E STEP 1: Load powder. Be sure to use the

E STEP 2. Load wads. Place a tight-fitting,

E STEP 3: Load shot. Use the same

E STEP 4: Load card. Seat a thin, stiff over-

PHOTOS BY DARRYL QUIDORT

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017 | MODERN PIONEER | 9

MP-1708-DIY.indd 9 6/21/17 3:47 AM

PHOTO BY DARRYL QUIDORT

Quidort enjoys the thrill of taking game the way our

10 | MODERN PIONEER | AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017

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A DRINK ALWAYS CLOSE

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KNIVES TAKING FLIGHT

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The Resurgence of an Ancient Practice

PHOTO COURTESY OF GETTY IMAGE

16 | MODERN PIONEER AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2017