Author: Crossbow Magazine Staff

When it comes to creating a food plot for deer or prepping land for other property management needs, a reliable pull-behind tiller can make all the difference. These machines attach to your ATV, UTV, lawn tractor, or even a compact utility vehicle to break up the soil, mix in fertilizer or seed, and give you a clean bed for planting. Whether you’re a hardcore deer hunter working deep into the woods or a homeowner maintaining large lawns and gardens, choosing the right pull-behind tiller can save you hours of manual labor and deliver better results. Below, we’ve rounded up the…

The crisp mountain air carried the scent of pine and the distant call of a bull moose. Deep in the backcountry, in some of Colorado’s most unforgiving terrain, Vince Rafferty was closing in on the hunt of a lifetime—one that would not only test his limits but, unbeknownst to him, would etch his name into the record books. For decades, Vince had pursued big game with a compound bow, a dedicated athlete in both the hunting world and beyond. But years of pushing his body to the extreme—as a firefighter, powerlifter, and as a former professional athlete—had taken a toll. A torn bicep…

Best Crossbow Scopes for Precision, Accuracy, Weight, Situation, Budget, and more. When it comes to crossbow hunting, accuracy is key. And one of the most crucial components for achieving that precision is the crossbow scope. Most crossbows come as a package with arrows, quiver, and some form of optic. There are several reasons you would want to upgrade your optics.  We feel they fall into 4 main categories:  add range-finding capability, improve magnification and optical quality, thermal/night hunting, or minimize weight considerations.  Selecting from the best crossbow scopes can distinguish between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. With so…

Choosing the perfect pair of binoculars can elevate your outdoor experience, whether you’re a hunter, birdwatcher, or nature enthusiast. With a trusted name like Vortex Optics, you’re assured of high-quality, durable binoculars designed to meet specific viewing needs. From long-range precision to compact models ideal for travel, Vortex binoculars offer a range of options that cater to various activities and environments. This guide will walk you through essential features, from magnification and lens quality to durability and weight, helping you find the ideal Vortex binoculars to suit your adventures and enhance every sighting. Vortex Bantam – The Vortex Bantam family…

Hunting isn’t just about the harvest—it’s about the stories, the lessons learned, and the unforgettable moments. For seasoned hunter Jace Cowell, a late-season black bear hunt turned into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. What started as a routine day in the woods ended with the harvest of a massive Boone and Crockett bear, measuring over seven feet tall and weighing 500 pounds. In this personal account, Jace shares the thrill of the hunt, the Boone and Crockett scoring process, and the rich appreciation he gained for the anatomy and resilience of black bears. Whether you’re a hunter or an outdoor enthusiast, this…

Every seasoned hunter knows that the right tools can make or break a successful hunt. Among these tools, the deer hunting knife stands out as one of the most crucial. It’s not just a blade; it’s an extension of your skills and a key to ensuring a clean, efficient, and respectful process when handling your game. The Importance of a Quality Deer Hunting Knife When you’re deep in the woods and the thrill of the hunt has reached its peak, you need a knife that won’t let you down. The best deer hunting knife is more than a mere cutting…

Technology impacts almost every aspect of our daily lives. From heating our homes and buying groceries to how we manage our finances, health, and more. It’s nearly impossible to avoid tech’s reach, and although it can be viewed as intrusive in some situations, there’s no doubt that tech is making life safer. You can pay bills on your smartphone from anywhere in the country, communicate with loved ones overseas through video chat, and even watch sports at the best online betting sites. Hunting is one area tech has improved beyond measure, creating more precise shooting, safer trips, location sharing, and…

Michigan has nearly 10 million acres of public hunting land. The state website, Michigan.gov, has an interactive map you can use to plan your next hunting trip. You can camp for up to two weeks within public hunting grounds. But there are limitations. You need a hunting license, a good crossbow, or a hunting rifle. It also helps to join a hunting group. You can learn a lot about hunting in MI with the help of a guided tour. Before you pack your gear, read this Michigan guide about the best casinos in the state. Casino gaming can be fun…

Guest Editorial Written by: Larry Becker – Board Member, NY Crossbow Coalition New York Crossbow Coalition and the Legislative Session ending – June 2024 This is an update of where we are in New York State, in achieving full inclusion of the crossbow as an implement in the entire early archery season.  We have battled both politics and misinformation on a regular basis. Many of us have been involved in fighting for full inclusion of crossbow as an implement during early bowhunting seasons for a few decades. Most of us are long time bowhunters who for medical reasons can no…

The crossbow, a unique invention that has stood the test of time, has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from a deadly instrument of war to a thrilling piece of sporting equipment. Its journey through history is a fascinating tale that combines the ingenuity of human innovation with the ever-evolving course of cultural evolution. While its origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where it played an important role in battles that shaped the course of history, the crossbow has since found a new purpose in sports and games. The History of Crossbows The crossbow’s origins are not completely known,…