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Shotguns, Bows & Fool Hens by E. Donnall Thomas Jr. Although the termination dust had yet to fall, it was the kind of September day that demands the acknowledgement of the seasons’ passage. Although fresh silvers were still entering the streams, the heart of the fishing season lay behind me. Bull moose were starting to round up their cows, and lines of migrating geese undulated against the crisp, azure sky. Since I’d been in Alaska long enough to know what lay just around the corner, I felt determined to wring as much experience as possible from the outdoors before the sun disappeared and winter seized the North Country in its icy grip. And on that particular day, I meant to do it with my shotgun. If I had nothing else with me as I walked out the door of our remote Kenai Peninsula home, I certainly enjoyed plenty of confidence in my dog. I regarded Skykomish as the best hunting Lab I’ve ever owned, and the passage of three more decades—and a number of very good retrievers—has yet to alter that opinion. Sky had certainly enjoyed plenty of experience with Alaska waterfowl since our move north the year before, but he’d been raised and trained as a flushing retriever on the game-rich plains of central Montana we’d left behind, and I knew he missed hitting the upland cover as much as I did. He’d enjoyed a fair amount of experience with ptarmigan by that point, but the nearest of their kind lay at least a modest expedition’s length away. That afternoon we were going to have to try for something closer to home… and more imaginative. The woods around our house teemed with spruce grouse, but it had taken me a season to figure out how to capitalize on them in sporting fashion with a shotgun. As subsistence fare, spruce grouse are hard to beat, but the same naivety that makes them so appealing to hungry moose hunters at the end of a long day also nearly ruins them as a serious wing-shooting quarry. I know, I know: when in Rome… But for better or worse I was raised to regard shooting a sitting grouse with a shotgun as a crime against nature. Fortunately, Sky’s enthusiasm and a bit of imagination on my own part had finally revealed a solution to the dilemma. A hundred yard hike down the gravel road leading to our house brought me to an intersection with an old, abandoned seismographic trail. With Sky fixed firmly at heel, I dropped a pair of shells into my shotgun and stepped off the road and into the big woods… On paper, Alaska offers a moderate variety of game birds to choose from above and beyond its widespread and justifiably esteemed ptarmigan. Trouble is, with one notable exception, the state’s other four grouse species occupy limited ranges. Blues are largely confined to the coastal rainforests and sharptails to some open terrain in the central interior, with ruffs occupying limited habitat in Southcentral (although their range is expanding courtesy of deliberate transplants). Well and good if you happen to be in the right place at the right time, but rarely enough to satisfy those who enjoy hunting upland birds as much as waterfowl and big game. That leaves the spruce grouse as the only reliable alternative to ptarmigan throughout much of the state. In terms of numbers and wide distribution, Falcipennis canadensis certainly fulfills the criteria as a major Alaska game bird species. Although they’re uncommon in many parts of Southeast, they’re plentiful throughout most of the forested terrain in the rest of the state. The brown band on the tips of their tail feathers readily distinguishes them from the sharptail and ruffed grouse. (The “Franklin” grouse farther south lacks this field mark; although formerly regarded as a separate species, it is now considered a subspecies of the spruce grouse.) In areas where their ranges overlap, spruce grouse can be distinguished from the far larger blue by the mottled appearance of their breast feathers. The problem, from the pure wing-shooter’s perspective, isn’t the bird—a small, attractive grouse that can explode off the ground when it wants to and actually provides fine table fare—but its habits. Spruce grouse are more likely to rely on their excellent natural camouflage than their speed on the wing. And since most of the threats to their survival come from ground-based predators, they’re usually content to flutter up into the nearest tree and wait for danger to pass when they’re alarmed. While that’s a logical defense against foxes and lynx, it doesn’t offer much challenge to a shotgun. The behaviors that make the spruce grouse the definitive fool hen certainly aren’t all bad from the human hunter’s point of view. As survival fare, they’re hard to beat. Cut up and stewed with rice or noodles, they have provided a welcome respite from canned or freeze-dried food on countless wilderness big-game hunts. Friends regularly carry .22 pistols into the bush for just that purpose (although rocks will do the trick in a real emergency). But for those of us who choose to hunt big game with bows and arrows, producing a fool hen dinner at the end of a long day in search of moose or caribou can become a legitimate sporting exercise in its own right. The prohibitions against shooting sitting grouse that my father beat into my head when I was a kid certainly don’t apply when I’m armed with my longbow. In fact, a grouse twenty feet up ina spruce tree and partially concealed by overhanging branches can make a very challenging archery target. Furthermore, an errant shot may well result in a lost arrow a long way from the nearest replacement. I’ve certainly spent plenty of time kicking through the brush looking for lost arrows, often with the grouse that offered the original target already in my backpack after a clean pass-through. When space and weight constraints allow, I pack along an extra dozen relatively expendable “grouse arrows” for just this purpose when I’m hunting big game. Experienced Alaska bowhunters hold a variety of opinions about the optimal head to use on spruce grouse. Rubber blunts, Judo points, old .38 caliber shell casings, and the specialized small-game heads offered by some broadhead manufacturers all have their advocates. But I learned a long time ago that if you really want to kill something with a bow, you better shoot it with a cutting broadhead, and I keep a supply of old, non-replaceable blade heads that are a bit too beaten up to use on big game for just that purpose. Of course that has obligated me to some tree-climbing gymnastics when I’ve left a head stuck in a spruce trunk, with or without a grouse skewered on the shaft, but that seems a small price to pay for a clean kill and a grouse dinner. I never cease to be amazed at the way a grouse can sometimes absorb a solid hit from a rubber blunt shot from a heavy bow and fly off apparently unscathed. Autumn float trips for big game—or fish, for that matter—offer particularly abundant spruce grouse opportunities in suitable terrain because of the birds’ seasonal habits. At that time of year, grouse are eager to fill their gizzards with gravel ahead of the impending winter, and they often appear on stream banks in considerable numbers early in the morning and late in the evening for just that purpose. One advantage of the bow in this situation is that the hunter can quietly pick off enough birds for a real feast without spooking whatever big game might be in the area. Spruce grouse meat is dark but generally delicious in the fall, although it can taste strong in the winter when the birds are surviving on spruce needles. Cooked in a real kitchen with a range of supplemental ingredients available, they can provide the core of a terrific wild game dinner. However, the vast majority of spruce grouse I’ve eaten have been prepared in the field over an open fire, often at the end of a long day that left me too tired to worry about imaginative cooking. My standard wilderness spruce grouse recipe is about as simpleas camp cookery can get. Bone and dice the bird. Poach lightly for 15 minutes, using a bit more than one cup of water per grouse. Add one packet of Ramen noodles per bird and simmer for five more minutes. Wolf it down, crawl into your sleeping bag, and get ready for another day. As gratifying as I found this utilitarian approach to spruce grouse and their pursuit, it did nothing to address the need to enjoy some real wing-shooting that I experienced so acutely after moving from Montana to Alaska. That, after some experimentation, was where the dog finally came into play, as illustrated by events on that long ago September afternoon. Once we were safely away from the road, I released Sky from heel and watched him disappear into the woods. A flushing dog that is out of control does no good in heavy cover, but, guided only by an occasional trill from my whistle, Sky tacked steadily back and forth across the old cut without ever getting out of shotgun range. Suddenly the explosive sound of wings erupted from the trees to my left, and by the time the bird roared across the cut I was ready for him. The quick shot that followed reminded me of classical New England ruffed grouse hunting. As a handful of feathers drifted slowly down to earth, Sky appeared from the trees to do what retrievers do best. That bird was the first of three our team picked up during an hour’s hike through the cover, enough for a mealfor my family… and more than enough to make me feel like a real bird hunter again. Operating in their fool hen mode, spruce grouse will never rival ptarmigan as Alaska’s premier wing-shooting quarry. But whether they’re providing an emergency source of excitement for your shotgun and dog or a memorable meal around a wilderness campfire, they always seem to find a way to remind us of the North’s vast outdoor bounty.

Are Benelli Shotguns Difficult to Maintain? A Practical Guide to Keeping Your Inertia-Driven Shotgun Running Smoothly Benelli shotguns are highly regarded for their reliability, speed, and innovative inertia-driven operating system. However, a common question among prospective and current owners is: are they difficult to maintain? The short answer is no, but like any firearm, proper maintenance is crucial for optimal performance and longevity. This article will delve into the specifics of Benelli shotgun maintenance, dispelling myths and providing a practical guide to keeping your shotgun in top condition. Understanding the Benelli Inertia System: Simplicity is Key To understand the maintenance requirements of a Benelli, it's important to first understand its operating system. Unlike gas-operated shotguns, Benelli shotguns utilize an inertia-driven system. This system relies on the recoil energy of the shotgun to cycle the action. The core components are: Bolt Body: The main component of the bolt assembly. Inertia Spring: This spring absorbs the recoil energy and stores it to cycle the action. Rotating Bolt Head: Locks into the barrel extension for secure lockup. The beauty of this system lies in its simplicity. Fewer parts mean less to clean and less to potentially break. This inherent simplicity contributes to the Benelli's reputation for reliability. Common Misconceptions About Benelli Maintenance Before we dive into the maintenance procedures, let's address some common misconceptions: "Benellis Don't Need Cleaning": False. While Benellis can function for extended periods without cleaning due to the cleaner inertia system, neglecting maintenance will eventually lead to malfunctions. Carbon and residue buildup can hinder the action's smooth operation. "They're Too Complicated to Disassemble": Also false. Benelli shotguns are designed for relatively easy disassembly and reassembly. With a little practice and the owner's manual, most users can perform basic maintenance tasks. "You Need Special Tools": Mostly false. For basic cleaning and maintenance, you'll typically only need common tools like screwdrivers, a cleaning rod, brushes, and appropriate solvents and lubricants. Essential Benelli Shotgun Maintenance Procedures Here's a step-by-step guide to maintaining your Benelli shotgun: Safety First! Always ensure the shotgun is unloaded before performing any maintenance. Visually inspect the chamber and magazine to confirm they are empty. Disassembly: Consult your owner's manual for the specific disassembly procedure for your Benelli model. While the general principles are similar, slight variations may exist. Typically, this involves removing the forend, barrel, and bolt assembly. Cleaning: Barrel: Use a cleaning rod with a bore brush and solvent to remove fouling from the barrel. Follow with clean patches until they come out clean. Bolt Assembly: Pay particular attention to the bolt face, extractor, and firing pin channel. Use a solvent and brush to remove carbon buildup. A small amount of solvent sprayed into the firing pin channel, followed by compressed air, can help remove debris. Inertia Spring: Wipe down the inertia spring and the area where it sits with a clean cloth. Avoid over-lubricating this spring, as excessive lubricant can attract dirt and grime. Trigger Group: While not required every cleaning, occasionally removing the trigger group for a more thorough cleaning is recommended. Again, consult your owner's manual for specific instructions. Use compressed air to remove dust and debris. Magazine Tube: Clean the inside of the magazine tube with a brush and solvent. Lubrication: Lightly lubricate the following areas: Bolt rails Bolt carrier contact points Magazine tube (lightly) Any other areas where metal surfaces rub together. Use a high-quality gun oil or grease designed for firearms. Avoid over-lubrication, as this can attract dirt and cause malfunctions. Reassembly: Follow your owner's manual for the correct reassembly procedure. Ensure all parts are properly seated and secured. Function Check: After reassembly, perform a function check to ensure the shotgun cycles properly. This involves manually cycling the action and checking the trigger and safety. Always do this with an empty firearm, pointed in a safe direction. How Often Should You Clean Your Benelli? The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use your shotgun and the conditions in which you use it. Regular Use (e.g., weekly shooting): Clean after each use. Occasional Use (e.g., a few times a year): Clean before and after each use. Harsh Conditions (e.g., hunting in rain or mud): Clean immediately after exposure. Tips for Easier Benelli Maintenance: Use Quality Cleaning Supplies: Invest in good-quality solvents, lubricants, brushes, and cleaning rods. Follow the Owner's Manual: Your owner's manual is the best resource for specific maintenance instructions for your Benelli model. Don't Over-Lubricate: Less is often more when it comes to lubrication. Inspect Regularly: Visually inspect your shotgun for any signs of wear or damage. Consider Professional Cleaning: If you're not comfortable performing maintenance yourself, consider taking your shotgun to a qualified gunsmith for cleaning and inspection. Use a bore snake: A bore snake can be an easy way to clean your barrel after a day at the range, reducing the time you spend on a full cleaning. Pay attention to the recoil spring: While it doesn't need to be cleaned as often as the bolt, the recoil spring is a key component of the inertia system. Make sure to clean and lubricate it every so often. Conclusion: Benelli Shotgun Maintenance is Manageable Benelli shotguns are not difficult to maintain. Their inertia-driven system is inherently cleaner than gas-operated systems, and their design is relatively simple. By following a regular cleaning and lubrication schedule 👍🏻

Finding Your Perfect Beretta Shotgun: The Hunter's Guide to the Best Beretta Shotguns for Hunting For generations, Beretta has been synonymous with quality, reliability, and exceptional performance in the shotgun world. Whether you're chasing upland birds, stalking waterfowl, or pursuing larger game, a Beretta shotgun can be a trusted companion in the field. However, with a wide array of models available, selecting the best Beretta for your specific hunting needs can be daunting. This guide breaks down some of the top choices, highlighting their strengths and helping you make an informed decision. Why Choose a Beretta Shotgun for Hunting? Before diving into specific models, it's worth understanding what makes Beretta shotguns so highly regarded: Unmatched Reliability: Beretta has built its reputation on producing shotguns that consistently perform under demanding conditions. Their meticulous manufacturing processes and high-quality materials result in firearms that stand the test of time. Superior Handling: Beretta shotguns are known for their excellent balance and smooth swing, crucial factors for accurate shooting in dynamic hunting scenarios. Versatility: From 12-gauge powerhouses to nimble 20-gauge options, Beretta offers shotguns suitable for a wide range of hunting applications. Advanced Technology: Beretta continues to innovate, incorporating features like Optima-Choke HP systems, advanced recoil reduction mechanisms, and durable protective finishes. Resale Value: Beretta shotguns hold their value well, making them a sound investment for serious hunters. Top Beretta Shotgun Recommendations for Hunting: Here are some of the best Beretta shotguns for hunting, categorized by their primary applications: 1. For Upland Bird Hunting (Quail, Pheasant, Grouse): Beretta A400 Upland: This semi-automatic shotgun is a favorite among upland bird hunters. Its lightweight design (typically around 6.6 lbs) makes it comfortable to carry during long days in the field. The A400 action is known for its fast cycling and reliability, allowing for quick follow-up shots. The walnut stock and forend provide a classic look and feel, while the recoil reduction system helps to tame recoil from heavier loads. Key Features: Gas-operated action, Optima-Choke HP system, Kick-Off recoil reduction, available in 12 and 20 gauge. Why it's ideal: Lightweight, fast-cycling, and comfortable to shoot, perfect for fast-moving upland birds. Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon I: An over-under shotgun that balances traditional elegance with modern performance. The Silver Pigeon I is renowned for its crisp triggers, excellent balance, and smooth handling. Its lower profile and lighter weight (compared to some other over-unders) make it a joy to carry in the field. Key Features: Over-under action, single selective trigger, Optima-Choke HP system, beautiful engraving on the receiver. Why it's ideal: Classic aesthetics, superb handling, and reliable performance make it a favorite for upland bird hunting. 2. For Waterfowl Hunting (Ducks, Geese): Beretta A400 Xtreme Plus: This is Beretta's flagship waterfowl shotgun, designed to withstand the harshest conditions. It features a larger overbored barrel, Beretta's Steelium barrel construction for durability, and an oversized bolt handle and release for easy operation with gloved hands. The A400 Xtreme Plus is also known for its excellent recoil reduction, making it comfortable to shoot even with heavy waterfowl loads. Key Features: Gas-operated action, Steelium barrel, Kick-Off Mega recoil reduction, enlarged controls, corrosion-resistant finish. Why it's ideal: Extremely durable, reliable in adverse conditions, and comfortable to shoot with heavy loads, perfect for waterfowl hunting. Beretta A350 Xtrema: A more budget-friendly option compared to the A400 Xtreme Plus, but still a very capable waterfowl shotgun. It utilizes a gas-operated system for reliable cycling and features a durable, weather-resistant finish. The A350 Xtrema is a solid performer for waterfowl hunting without breaking the bank. Key Features: Gas-operated action, durable finish, oversized controls, available in 12 gauge. Why it's ideal: Reliable performance, durable construction, and a more affordable price point make it a great value for waterfowl hunting. 3. For Turkey Hunting: Beretta A300 Outlander: A versatile and reliable semi-automatic shotgun that can be used for a variety of hunting applications, including turkey hunting. Its simple gas operating system makes it very dependable and easy to maintain. While it doesn't have all the bells and whistles of the A400 Xtreme Plus, the A300 Outlander is a capable and affordable option for turkey hunting. Consider adding an aftermarket red dot sight and a turkey choke for optimal performance. Key Features: Gas-operated action, reliable and easy to maintain, available in 12 and 20 gauge. Why it's ideal: Reliable, affordable, and versatile, making it a good option for turkey hunting, especially with the addition of a turkey choke and optic. Beretta 1301 Tactical (Modified for Hunting): While technically a tactical shotgun, the 1301 Tactical can be modified into an exceptional turkey gun. Its ultra-fast cycling action (thanks to the Blink gas system) allows for incredibly quick follow-up shots. Adding a longer barrel (if regulations allow) and a quality red dot sight transforms this tactical shotgun into a formidable turkey hunting tool. Important note: Ensure your modifications comply with all local hunting regulations. Key Features: Ultra-fast Blink gas system, durable construction, aftermarket support for modifications. Final Thoughts: Choosing the best Beretta shotgun for hunting is a personal decision that depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider the type of hunting you'll be doing most often, your budget, and your physical capabilities. #beretta #club #fans