Binoculars

Whitetail hunting from a hunting tree stand requires a good rifle. If you’re thinking about getting into deer hunting, or if your buddies are trying to talk you into trying it with them, deciding which type of rifle is best can be a bewildering project. Here are some ideas to think about that will help you in reaching your decision on what kind of rifle to buy.

If cost were no object, it would be easy to just go out and buy the fanciest and pretty rilfe the highest price sporting goods store you can find offers. Realistically, however, making the best choice between getting the best rifle and how much to pay takes a little more thought.

Many long time deer hunters think very highly of the Winchester Model 70. These rifles have been made since 1936. Although the original Winchester Repeating Arms Company does not make the rifle today, they are still being produced. It is felt that the original quality and attention to detail that was put into the original Winchester models is still being carried forward today in the new rifles.

It seems like every hunter you talk to has a different idea on which caliber rifle is best. You won’t have any trouble finding old timers who will tell you the only thing to use is a 30-06. But the .270 caliber rifles probably are currently more common as a choice. Modern improvements in guns and ammo makes the .270 enough of a rifle for most situations.

The weight of the bullet you use also has a bearing on which caliber of rifle you use. If you will be shooting 150-160 grain bullets, the .270 is a good choice. If you feel you have to go to a heavier round, lean toward a 30-06 for bullet weights over 160 grains.

If you want to pay a little less than you might have to pay for a Winchester Model 70, consider some of the offerings from other companies. Remington offers wide range of rifles. One to consider would be the Model 7600. Marlin Firearms also makes a nice rifle in the Model XL70. Both of these are available in either .270 or 30-06 calibers.

Another option would be to go with something outside the traditional calibers. You can check out the Weatherby Vanguard which shoots a .257 caliber round. Weatherby is another company with a well known name in the firearms industry.

It seems that if you talk to ten hunters you will find that they will recommend ten different guns as the best to use. There is no one perfect rifle. In many ways you’ll find one is a good as another. The guns above will give you a good starting point, and then ask others you know who are hunters for their recommendations.

Whitetail hunting usually means hunting out of summit tree stands, ladder treestands or some other type. Use some of these suggestions to make your choice. Then go get your first trophy deer.

Tags: climbing tree stands, hunting tree stands, ladder treestands, tripod treestands