While our ancestors were perfectly capable of hunting with rocks and spears, the modern hunter has a wide array of gadgets at their disposal to ensure a successful hunt.
That being said, no amount of technology can make up for a hunter who knows how to use their weapon with deadly effect. The question is, which weapon should a hunter use? How does their choice of weapon affect their ability to hunt.
Let’s look at the 10 most common weapon systems for hunting and an overview of how beginners can best utilize them.
10 Beginner-Friendly Hunting Weapon Platforms
Having the right hunting gear can make or break a hunt. This is primarily seen in a hunter’s choice of weapon. A good hunter should be able to use their weapon as an extension of themselves and fire true every time.
Let’s look at 10 possible weapons new hunters can choose from, their calibers, and how beginner-friendly they are.
1.Bolt-Action Hunting Rifles
The most common hunting weapon is a bolt-action hunting rifle. From a small .22 caliber for varmints to a .338 win mag for elk and moose, you’re sure to find a bolt-action rifle that carries your ideal caliber.
This system has been a mainstay in everything from the military to competition shooting for nearly 200 years. It’s easy to build muscle memory when using this kind of rifle, and plenty of firing ranges allow shooters to practice with bolt-action rifles.
2.Shotguns
Shotguns (12 and 20 gauge) are the second most-prolific weapon platform used by hunters across the country. It’s primarily used for hunting smaller, more elusive game such as ducks and pigeons. It can even be used for hunting deer.
Hunting shotguns are either pump-action or semi-automatic. This allows hunters to have a balance between stopping power and rate of fire. Having access to different kinds of shells allows you to switch quickly and hunt multiple kinds of prey on the same trip.
3.Compound Bow and Arrow
One of the oldest weapons in human history, the bow and arrow serves hunters to this day. It’s best for hunters looking to remain stealthy, losing their arrow, and hitting their target before it hears the twang. Compound bows work best when hunting deer.
Bowhunting is a technical skill that requires more than a fundamental knowledge of marksmanship. You will need to train your eyes to focus on the target. You will need to strengthen your arms to be able to draw, hold, and release with ease.
4.Crossbow
The medieval-age upgrade to the simple bow and arrow allows users to enjoy the silent but deadly approach bows and arrows offer, but with more speed and power. Ergonomically, it’s also compatible with firearms users.
This allows hunters to use similar sniper scopes to those used on rifles. It offers a similar trigger pull and grip as a hunting rifle without the same recoil or debris floating around. This makes it more environmentally friendly.
5.AR-Platform Rifles
The venerable platform has won wars, saved lives, and even made hunters more effective. It’s ideal for former military and law enforcement looking to use their beloved rifle in a civilian setting. It uses smaller, faster rounds, perfect for small games.
Even when it is only available in semi-automatic, the AR offers its users the ability to rapidly go through rounds and reload. It has a low level of recoil compared to bolt-action rifles, allowing users to rapidly hit multiple small targets.
6.Air Rifles
The classic practice rifle has become a reliable weapon for hunters and people looking to tranquilize targets for humanitarian purposes. While air rifles were traditionally available in low calibers, newer models deliver higher stopping power.
Pre-Charged Pneumatic (PCP) Airguns are great for those who want to use rifles for hunting without worrying about recoil. There’s no smoke, no ejecting shells, and minimal sound. Air rifles offer maximum accuracy, stability, and precision.
7.Muzzle-Loading Rifles
An upgrade to a 500-year-old design, modern muzzle-loaded hunting rifles deliver the ability to hit deer and larger prey. They’re not as easy to use as ARs and bolt actions. However, they’re made to be used close-up. They’re for hunters looking to increase their skills.
8.Hunting Knife
An excellent hunting knife allows hunters to skin their animals and divide them into parts for easier storage. It’s vital for dressing and working with your animal after you’ve killed it. It will also allow you to kill any predators close enough to warrant its use.
9.Pocket Knife
A pocket knife isn’t the first thing a hunter considers when choosing their primary weapon. If anything, a knife is often a secondary or even tertiary weapon, more useful after the hunt than during. Still, it’s a must-have for every hunter.
A reliable pocket knife is worth its weight in gold out in the field. A sharp knife will allow you to get a fire going, build shelter, dig bullets out of your prey, and even finish it humanely. You can even use it as a utensil when trying your meat.
10.The Human Mind
More than the finest rifle, the sharpest knife or the straightest arrow, the best weapon is the hunter. Their mind is the most important tool in their arsenal. Like every other weapon, it must be sharpened, maintained, and trained with.
This means training with your weapons constantly. It means developing your senses and practicing land navigation. It means learning how to survive in your chosen hunting ground. It means respecting your prey and knowing their patterns.
Conclusion
The best weapons platform for a new hunter is one they can train with. It’s one they can use comfortably and consistently. They should be able to afford ammunition for it, and they should be able to drag it along without worrying about its durability.
More than choosing the right weapon, the best way to ensure a successful hunt is to prepare to succeed. You must train with your equipment, understand your prey, and build your mental fortitude.