“Shell”ebrate Spring by Adopting a Desert Tortoise

AZGFD has over 100 desert tortoises that need forever homes

When we asked the Easter Bunny to include some desert tortoises in his Easter basket deliveries, he said the only shells he deals with are on the eggs! So now, we’re asking you directly. The Desert Tortoise Adoption Program at the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZGFD) currently has over 100 non-releasable desert tortoises that need forever homes. The tortoises will soon wake up from brumation, so it’s the perfect time to get your burrow built and your adoption application submitted. Everything you need to know about the adoption process, burrow-building and tortoise care can be found at azgfd.gov/tortoise.

Wildlife biologists at AZGFD are currently caring for over 100 surrendered desert tortoises that would jump (or at least crawl enthusiastically) at the chance to join your family this spring. Each year, AZGFD cares for hundreds of captive desert tortoises that have been turned into the state or abandoned as a result of illegal breeding. It’s not safe for these tortoises to be released back into the wild—captive tortoises can harbor respiratory infections that could be devastating to the wild population—so the AZGFD Desert Tortoise Adoption Program looks after them, but space and resources are limited. That’s where you come in: In addition to getting a great pet, Arizona residents have a unique opportunity to help protect our state’s desert wildlife by welcoming a desert tortoise to their home. Read more

Wildlife

Thompson/Center Arms Unveils Next Generation of ENCORE PROHunter Platform

Thompson/Center Arms continues to build on its legacy of quality, and performance with the return of the ENCORE PROHunter. As a pioneer in muzzleloading firearms, Thompson/Center Arms remains committed to delivering cutting edge designs while upholding the time honored traditions that have defined the brand for six decades.

“We are proud to have Thompson/Center return to its hometown manufacturing roots of Rochester, NH, and thrive as family-owned once again,” said Gregg Ritz, President & CEO of T/C Arms. “Our talented team is committed to the innovation, unrivaled quality, and lifetime warranty that have defined the iconic T/C brand for 60 years. Hunters and shooters can expect to see the rebirth of the storied product lines such as the ENCORE platform, along with new designs that will redefine the shooting experience and remind gun owners why T/C Arms is America’s Master Gunmaker.”

The Thompson/Center Arms ENCORE PROHunter is built on a legacy of precision, versatility, and attention to detail. This single shot, break-open platform allows shooters to customize their setup with interchangeable barrels spanning popular centerfire and rimfire rifle calibers, shotgun gauges, and T/C Arms’ renowned muzzleloader barrels.

The ENCORE PROHunter lineup is available in .45 and .50 calibers, with 20” and 28” heavy contour precision fluted barrels. Each barrel is drilled and tapped for precision scope or sight installation, providing superior accuracy and adaptability. The industry leading Speed Breech XT™ technology with Nitride coating ensures a hassle free, hand removable breech plug with a simple 90° rotation for quick and easy cleaning.

Features: Read more

Firearms

Heritage Manufacturing Unveils Nickel-Finished Badlander Coach Gun

[Bainbridge, GA] This spring, Heritage Manufacturing adds a bold new finish to its iconic side-by-side lineup with the launch of the Badlander Nickel, a striking take on the classic 12-gauge coach gun.

Originally introduced in December 2023, the Badlander quickly captured the attention of modern-day cowboys and home defenders alike. With its 18.5″ barrels, twin triggers, and timeless break-action design, it delivered both function and flair. Now, in April 2025, that same rugged performance comes wrapped in a corrosion-resistant nickel finish—offering a head-turning twist to the Old West aesthetic.

Built on the same durable platform, the Nickel Badlander features:

    • 18.5-inch cylinder bore barrels
    • Tang-mounted two-position safety
    • Turkish walnut furniture
    • Twin triggers for classic double-barrel action
    • Sturdy brass bead sight

Read more

Firearms

Vortex Pro Rifle Clamp Tripod Mount

BARNEVELD, WI – With the new Pro Rifle Clamp Tripod Mount, you don’t have to sacrifice speed and mobility to get a lockdown shooting platform.

You don’t have to modify your stock or carry extra tools. All you have to do is mount the clamp to your favorite platform (like the Vortex® Radian™ Carbon and Switchback™ Carbon tripods) and you get hair-splitting accuracy from your rifle, shotgun, and even your crossbow. Western and predator hunters, and any shooter who values rapid deployment and no-slip security, will love how the Pro Rifle Clamp Tripod Mount fits their hunt. Read more

Firearms

Build a Better Herd with Ani-Logics Outdoors

Spring is here, bringing a surge of green forage—but not all vegetation is created equal when it comes to enhancing deer nutrition. Many regions experience a bloom of cool-season grasses that are high in fiber yet low in protein, making them less desirable for deer. To truly support a thriving herd, hunters and land managers need targeted solutions that maximize nutritional value.

Ani-Logics Outdoors offers a range of scientifically designed food plot blends that transform grassy areas into rich feeding grounds. Pro Clover is a top-tier option featuring fast-growing, highly nutritious clovers that establish quickly and benefit deer populations. For drier regions like ridge tops, Clover Plus Alfalfa excels in moisture-limited environments. Landowners struggling with minimal sunlight can opt for Clover Plus Chicory, which thrives with as little as four hours of sunlight daily. Holy Clover, with its deep taproot and alfalfa-like growth, is an excellent choice for drought-prone areas.

The durability of these perennial blends ensures sustained browse tolerance, making them ideal for small food plots tucked near bedding areas. Notably, Tiffany Lakosky harvested one of her biggest bucks over a Pro Clover field last fall, highlighting the success of Ani-Logics Outdoors products.

As temperatures rise throughout the growing season, Pro Bean Blend emerges as the perfect dual-purpose solution—offering both lush green forage in summer and high-energy pods for fall and winter sustenance. With a mix of five different maturities, some beans will remain green until late season, while others prioritize pod production. Additionally, its glyphosate tolerance allows for easy weed management. Read more

Hunting, Wildlife

CCI’s New Suppressor Max 22 LR Loads Now Shipping

CCI Ammunition is proud to announce all-new Suppressor Max 22 LR. This small game load is specifically designed for optimal accuracy, terminal performance, and noise reduction when fired through rimfire suppressors. The hollow-point bullet ensures effective segmentation on impact—even at its low-decibel, subsonic 970 feet per second muzzle velocity. This new product is currently being delivered to retailers nationwide.

Suppressor Max, 22 LR, 45 Grain, Segmented Hollow Point

“Whisper-quiet yet powerful rimfire performance is now within reach,” said CCI’s Rimfire Product Line Manager Steve Monniere. “CCI Suppressor Max delivers excellent accuracy, and our proven segmenting hollow-point bullet also provides exceptional terminal performance. More and more shooters and hunters are opting for suppressed firearms, and they will all love this new 45-grain 22 LR option.

Features include loaded to a 970-fps subsonic velocity for ultra-quiet performance, designed for maximum effectiveness on target out of a suppressed rifle or pistol, 45-grain segmenting hollow-point bullet that is safe to shoot through all suppressors, customized hollow-point bullet segments reliably at low velocity, unlike conventional suppressor rounds, and it cycles in all semi-automatics. It is available in 100-count packaging.

Part No. / Description / MSRP

22SMX / 22 LR 45 Grain, SHP, 970 fps / $18.99 Read more

Ammunition

FPC Moves to Permanently End Texas Gun Carry Bans

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced that it has filed a motion for summary judgment in its Second Amendment lawsuit challenging laws prohibiting individuals from carrying firearms at certain locations in the State of Texas.

Summary

Texas criminal law bans the carriage of firearms at certain locations, including in any business where alcohol comprises 51% or more of sales (even if the individual is not consuming alcohol); at racetracks; and at sporting events.

Through the case, FPC and our co-plaintiffs are working to have these laws declared unconstitutional and enjoined from enforcement.

What We’re Working to Achieve

The Ziegenfuss case is part of FPC’s high-impact strategic litigation program, FPC Law, aimed at eliminating immoral laws and creating a world of maximal liberty. This case is part of FPC’s work to eliminate unconstitutional locational restrictions throughout the United States.

Through this lawsuit, we are working to achieve:

    • A federal court declaration holding that these laws are unconstitutional.
    • An injunction blocking enforcement of Texas’ carry bans in the above locations.
    • The ability for peaceable people to travel to ordinary public places while armed for self-defense and lawful purposes.

Read more

Gun Control

DIY Jug Fishing Light Brings Big Visibility to a Classic Method

LUMENOK (The Burt Coyote Co) is excited to launch the DIY Jug Fishing Light—a tough, reliable, and brilliantly simple lighting solution designed for nighttime jug fishing. Built to fit nearly any screw-top jug, from 16 oz bottles to 2-liter soda bottles, this adaptable light module brings your jug rigs to life the moment a fish bites.

When tilted by a strike, the internal sensor activates a bright red or green LED, instantly lighting up your jug—no more wondering which line got hit in the dark. Translucent jugs work especially well, casting a brilliant internal glow that’s easy to see in the roughest of waves.

Easy Setup. No Guesswork.

Installing the DIY Jug Fishing Light is quick and simple. All you need is a cordless drill and a Phillips head screwdriver. We supply everything else—including the mounting hardware. Whether you’re a first-time builder or a seasoned rig master, this kit makes it easy to get on the water faster. Read more

Fishing

Lewiston man will proceed to trial for impersonating emergency responders

April 16, 2025

Douglas Allen Smith, 66, from Lewiston pleaded not guilty to four charges related to impersonating an emergency responder in the Montmorency County 88th District Court on Friday.

Smith faces one misdemeanor charge for the unlawful use of fire department/emergency medical services emblems and three felony charges, including:

  • Impersonating firefighter/EMS personnel.
  • Possessing a firearm in the commission of a felony.
  • Carrying a concealed weapon.

On Feb. 18, a Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer was patrolling in Albert Township when he was passed by what appeared to be a fire emergency vehicle. The vehicle, operated by Smith, had the words “Search and Rescue” on the side, a loud siren, and active red, white and blue emergency lights.

In Michigan, red and white emergency lights are used for emergency vehicles, while only law enforcement vehicles display blue lights.

The vehicle was recklessly traveling at a high speed around cars and through intersections.

The CO confirmed with Montmorency County Dispatch that there was not an active fire or EMS call in the county.

Smith pulled into the parking lot of Lewiston Fun Ones, a closed venue located on County Road 489, where the CO conducted a traffic stop.

Smith told the officer he was, “going to a call,” but it was called off.

The CO verified that Smith was not affiliated with any emergency response agency in Michigan and located an uncased pistol in the front of the vehicle.

A warrant request was submitted to the Montmorency County Prosecutor’s Office for the above-listed charges. Smith was arrested on March 21 for those charges and released when his bond was paid. A future court date will be determined.

Contact: Lt. Jim Gorno, 231-350-0963

General

Grizzly Bear Killed in Encounter Near Dupuyer

Like many Montanans do this time of year, a man was shed hunting in north-central Montana near Dupuyer on Friday. The man was searching for antlers on a brushy hillside when he first saw a bear. As he was leaving the area, the bear charged him at close range. He shot and killed the bear. Fortunately, the man was uninjured.

The bear was an adult female grizzly in good condition with no history of conflict and was estimated to be 13 years old and weighing around 250 pounds. Read more

Wildlife
1 … 160 161 162 163 164 … 2,058