Sportsmen’s Alliance Objects to Recommended Denial of Preliminary Injunction in Puppy Ban Case

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On February 25, the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation filed an objection to a magistrate judge’s recommendation to deny SAF’s request for preliminary injunction in our lawsuit against the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) unlawful puppy ban. A district judge will now take a fresh look at SAF’s arguments that the CDC’s Dog Rule should be halted until the full legal process can play out.

“While we’re disappointed with the magistrate judge’s recommendation to deny our motion for preliminary injunction, we still feel strongly that the recommendation, and CDC’s defenses, miss the mark,” said Michael Jean, Litigation Counsel for the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation. “We’re hopeful the district judge will agree.”

Oral arguments on the preliminary injunction were delivered before a magistrate judge in December 2024. The magistrate judge delivered a report and recommendation to deny the preliminary injunction in early February 2025. That recommendation is passed along to the presiding district judge for a final decision. However, because SAF objected to the recommendation, the district judge will now review the request for preliminary injunction outside of the magistrate judge’s report and recommendation.

SAF’s legal arguments remain sound. CDC exceeded its authority in promulgating the Dog Rule, and precedent from multiple courts, including the Supreme Court, concludes just as much. Additionally, just days before oral arguments, CDC announced a forthcoming notice of proposed rulemaking to potentially change the dog import rule. The notice indicates that CDC is second-guessing its own rule and may propose revisions to the requirements for the importation of dogs. Still, CDC continues to defend its unlawful rulemaking.

“We remain confident that our multiple pleadings not only show that CDC’s Dog Rule is unlawful, but that a preliminary injunction is necessary and proper to stop the harm our members are experiencing as a result,” said Torin Miller, Associate Litigation counsel for the Sportsmen’s Alliance Foundation. “We’re asking the district judge to see through the government’s smoke and mirrors and see the rule for what it is – an egregious usurpation of authority.”
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Animal Rights

Public Invited to Learn About Proposed Hall Lake Dam Modifications

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The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will host a public information open house Wednesday, March 12, to share a draft plan for decommissioning Hall Lake Dam, which is located in the Yankee Springs Recreation Area in Barry County.

The meeting will run 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Hastings Public Library, 227 E. State St. in Hastings. DNR staff and project team members will be on hand to discuss the draft plan or any environmental concerns related to the lake and surrounding area. People will have opportunity to ask questions and provide comments throughout the two-hour period.

For those who can’t attend the open house, a copy of the draft plan and a public feedback form – open through March 19 – are available online. Find links to both at Michigan.gov/YankeeSprings. Read more

Fishing

Nocpix Introduces QUEST Rangefinding Thermal Binoculars

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iRayUSA, the United States distributor of InfiRay Outdoor and Nocpix thermal optics, is proud to introduce the QUEST thermal binoculars, available through dealers in the United States beginning mid-March 2025. These binoculars combine cutting-edge thermal imaging with the ease and comfort of a dual-eye experience, offering a smoother, more intuitive alternative to traditional monocular optics.

The QUEST is powered by a 12 µm ?15mK 640×512 thermal sensor and Reality+ image processing, delivering crisp, high-resolution images on dual 1920×1200 displays. Each display features individual diopter and position adjustments, ensuring a customizable viewing experience. The integrated 1,000-yard laser rangefinder provides quick, accurate distance readings, while digital image stabilization ensures steady visuals in challenging conditions.

Designed for extended use, the QUEST features both an internal USB-C rechargeable battery and an auxiliary IRB-2 (18650 cell) rechargeable battery, allowing users to hot-swap batteries for uninterrupted operation. The binoculars are available in two models: the H50R with a 50mm objective lens and the H35R with a 35mm germanium lens. Each pair comes with a comfortable, fully adjustable binocular harness for added convenience during long sessions.

Models and Pricing:

    • QUEST H50R – 640×512 Sensor, 50 mm Objective, LRF – MAP $3,499
    • QUEST H35R – 640×512 Sensor, 35 mm Objective, LRF – MAP $2,999

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Optics

Bear Creek Arsenal Unveils New Line of Bolt Action Style for AR10s

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Bear Creek Arsenal, a leading manufacturer of high-quality firearms and accessories, is excited to announce the launch of its latest innovation: AR10 uppers and rifles in a new bolt action style. This new line is designed to offer precision, reliability, and versatility to shooting enthusiasts and professionals alike.

The new bolt action AR10 uppers and rifles will be available in four popular calibers: .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .243 Winchester, and .22-250. Each caliber has been carefully selected to meet the diverse needs of hunters, competitive shooters, and those who live in states with restrictive gun laws.

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Firearms

Henry Repeating Arms Unveils “Spirit of the Corps” Tribute Edition Rifle

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Henry Repeating Arms, one of America’s leading firearm manufacturers, proudly announces the launch of the Spirit of the Corps Tribute Edition Rifle, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps and the men and women who have joined its ranks. Built on Henry’s award-winning Golden Boy platform, this highly embellished collectible lever-action .22 rifle honors the history, valor, and unwavering commitment of the Marines from their founding in 1775 to the present day.

A portion of the proceeds from each rifle sold will be donated to Semper Fi & America’s Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to critically wounded, ill, and injured service members, veterans, and military families. Henry Repeating Arms is also making an additional $25,000 donation in honor of the anniversary and in memory of the fallen Marines who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving our country.

“For 250 years, the United States Marine Corps has stood as an unwavering symbol of bravery, sacrifice for the greater good, and selfless dedication to our country. We owe an unpayable debt to those who have worn the Eagle, Globe, and Anchor, and this rifle is our way of saying ‘thank you,’” said Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms. “This rifle is a tribute to a milestone anniversary in our nation’s history, but even more so, it is a salute to every Marine who has ever answered the call to serve.”

A Tribute to 250 Years of Indomitable Spirit Read more

Firearms

Biden Holdovers at DOJ Move to Stall GOA Victory in Lawsuit Against ATF

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Gun Owners of America (GOA) and Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), alongside the states of Texas, Louisiana, Utah and Mississippi have filed an opposition to the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) motion to stay our ongoing lawsuit against the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). The case, which seeks to block the Biden Administration’s unlawful “engaged in the business” rule, had already seen a victory at the lower court, where a judge granted a preliminary injunction in favor of the plaintiffs. But now, the DOJ is attempting to stall the case by asking for a stay, which could delay a resolution for an indefinite period of time.

In our response filed today, GOA and the Texas Attorney General’s office made it clear that the DOJ’s request to stay the case only serves to further entrench the issue in a “quagmire of administrative process and serial litigation.” As the case is now on the brink of resolution, the DOJ’s actions seek to prolong the legal uncertainty, making it harder for gun owners to defend their rights.

The DOJ’s request to stall this victory is not only baseless but also indicative of the entrenched anti-gun agenda within DOJ’s bureaucracy.

This legal battle is part of a larger fight to protect the Second Amendment rights of all Americans. GOA and the Texas Attorney General’s office are working tirelessly to ensure that the ATF’s overreach is held in check, demanding that the DOJ cease its efforts to derail the court from deciding our case. On the campaign trail, President Trump said: “Biden is trying to ban all private gun transfers in the United States with a stroke of a pen. Under a Trump administration, all of those Biden disasters get ripped up and torn out my first week.” Read more

Gun Control

Arkansas Knife Law Preemption Bill Signed by Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders

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After over a decade of Knife Rights’ efforts, Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders signed HB 1418 that enacts Knife Rights’ signature Knife Law Preemption in the state, becoming Act 161. The bill adds “Knives” and “Knife-making components” to the state’s existing Firearms Law Preemption statute. The new law is effective 91 days after the session ends, scheduled for April 11, but the session can be extended.

Knife Law Preemption is a Knife Rights’ criminal justice reform effort that repeals and prevents local ordinances more restrictive than state law which only serve to confuse or entrap law-abiding citizens traveling within or through the state. Preemption ensures citizens can expect consistent enforcement of state knife laws everywhere within a state.

Congratulations and our thanks to Rep. Joey Carr and Sen. Terry Rice for their support and successful sponsorship of this important bill. Thanks to all who used Knife Rights’ Legislative Action center to hep move this bill forward. Read more

Cutlery

Thermopolis Hunter Wins Super Tag Trifecta

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When Nathan Miller entered the Wyoming Game and Fish Department’s Super Tag raffle, he didn’t expect to win. Not only did Miller win, he won the ultimate prize.

The 38-year-old from Thermopolis won the Super Tag Trifecta, which means Miller will have the opportunity to purchase three separate licenses for species that include: bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mountain goat, mule deer or white-tailed deer, wild bison, pronghorn, mountain lion, gray wolf and black bear. Lifetime limits and waiting periods do not apply, and hunters keep their preference points.

Miller and the other Super Tag winners were notified in mid-February.

“I’m still in disbelief. That stuff never happens to anybody, but especially to a person like me,” Miller said. “It’s surreal. It doesn’t really seem real. Nobody buys into the trifecta expecting to win it. I assumed I just donated my money.” Read more

Contests, Hunting

Southeast Montana Men Plead Guilty to Hunting Violations

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Two Montana men pled guilty to charges related to the illegal harvest of a brow-tined bull elk in southeast Montana.

On November 26, 2024, game wardens received an anonymous tip that a bull elk had been taken illegally in Hunting District 704. Region 7 Game Warden Sgt. Casey Prell and Game Warden Oliver Gulig identified two suspects, collected evidence, and determined neither suspect possessed the required permit for legal harvest of brow-tined bull elk in HD 704.

Cooperation and support from a private landowner showed that the suspects drove off road on Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and private property and killed the elk on private property without permission. Both suspects provided full confessions for their crimes.

Archie Swift, 22, of Miles City, and Jack Lufborough, 47, of Miles City, recently appeared in Custer County Justice Court. Swift pled guilty to Hunting without a License/Permit, Unlawful Possession of a Game Animal, and Failure to Obtain Landowner Permission for Hunting. He received a total fine of $1,375 and $1,000 restitution.

Lufborough pled guilty to Unlawful Possession of a Game Animal and Failure to Obtain Landowner Permission for Hunting and received a total fine of $820. Swift and Lufborough also lost their hunting, fishing, and trapping privileges for two years.

Anyone with possible information about an incident is encouraged to visit tipmont.mt.gov or contact a game warden in your area directly. You may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

Poachers ,

Turkey Time Revisited

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By Glen Wunderlich

Charter Member Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA)

It’s been a few years since I was inclined to play hide and seek with the wild turkeys; it’s not that we don’t have ‘em.  In fact, the very number of them has been my personal issue:  It just wouldn’t seem much like hunting because they’ve become so prevalent.

Heck, back in the ‘70s I camped out in Montmorency County all alone and on my toes by 4am.  Never got a bird.  I did take a shot at a tom with a Spanish made side-by-side double barrel shotgun but didn’t connect.  Sure was a thrill, though.

Years had passed when near the home front in Shiawassee County, I spotted an irregular figure far off on a piece of agricultural land and did a double-take.  I couldn’t make it out but I already had it in my mind that it was a turkey.  A quick trip home to get my binocular to make sure I wasn’t seeing things.  Dang turkey, sure enough!

Since then, the birds have been doing what birds (and bees) always do.  So, now we have our good ol’ days, thanks to the efforts of sportsmen and women.  Although the experiences from 50 years ago are gone, I have new reason to get back in the blind: a great grandson, who has obtained his Hunter Safety certificate and expressed an interest in turkey hunting.  Let’s do this.

While back in the day we used stout loads of 5 or 6-shot from large, shoulder-bruising 12-gauge shotguns, it’s no longer a necessary form of punishment on both ends of a smoothbore.  Enter the .410 bore shotgun – a new favorite of hunters of all ages and sizes.  How is this possible?  It’s the TSS ammo.

I’ve got two 10-round boxes on the way and both are among the Apex line in 9 ½ shot size.  Yes, the cost is an astronomical $8 per pop, but with a bit of resourcefulness and judicious use, smart practice can minimize the expense.  Simply sight in with some less expensive ammo first and get the adjustments refined before switching to the TSS fodder.

Like it or not, I don’t have a modern .410 bore shotgun that’s worth a hoot.  After purchasing a cheap Landor model .410, I wish I hadn’t bit that bullet.  The trigger is the worst ever!  In fact, it’s so stiff, my great grandson had to strain to get it to fire and that doesn’t make for good shooting.   Enter an old favorite of mine:  a 70 year-old J.C. Higgins model 101.25 (made by Stevens) bolt action smoothbore with a fixed-full choke.  I was concerned about bore damage, but after conferring with the folks at Apex Ammunition, the word was to “shoot it.”  So, here we go.

I’ll make sure to post results on this site (www.thinkingafield) and on my YouTube channel at Glen Wunderlich as soon as we get some fair weather here in Mid-Michigan.

Ammunition, Firearms, Hunting
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