Products from Savage, Bushnell and Federal anchored the hunt for Jake Edson and myself.
Our rifles were Savage Model 110 Lightweight Storms chambered in 308 Winchester. The Storm features a slim, 22-inch fluted stainless steel barrel, a black composite stock and Savage's acclaimed Accu-Trigger. They broke crisply at about 4 pounds.
I hadn't shot a 30-caliber rifle in years, but recoil was surprisingly mild from such a light, compact rifle.
Although Edson sighted in the rifles before the hunt, rough airline handling knocked their Bushnell Nitro 3-9x40 scopes off zero. A short sighting-in session at nearby Cottonmouth Lodge quickly had us punching bull's-eyes at 100 yards with Federal Premium ammo tipped with 165-gr. Barnes Triple Shock hollow points.
The Nitro scope has generous eye relief and is bright at the end of legal shooting light, even in the rain. I am very fond of my Bushnell Elite 3200 and 4200 scopes with their Rain-X coatings, but Edson said Bushnell's new EXO coating is even better. Rain and wind did not diminish their resolution or clarity at all.
Compact binoculars are essential equipment for glassing deer, turkey and other game, and the Bushnell Nitro 10x36 binos are very impressive. They are also very clear in low light and feature the EXO Barrier, as well.
Its rubber housing ensures a sure grip, and tight lens caps stay locked in place. Their compact size makes them ideal for all hunting, especially if attached to a body harness.
Sports on 01/13/2019