National Knife Collectors Association

All Things Knives

How To Pick A Bolt Action Rifle

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Bolt action rifles are durable and reliable. They are ideal if you need a rifle that will serve you for years. If you’re looking for the best hunting rifles, then consider action bolt rifles. The rifles are accurate, powerful, and pretty versatile for various types of hunting.

However, you must first know how to choose the best bolt action rifle for shooting. I know deciding on the ideal action rifle can be a challenging process. There are several choices on the market to consider.

One of the best ways to choose a bolt action rifle is to use the backward induction. This is theoretical reasoning where you look at the end result and choose the most fitting rifle. Below are some steps to follow when choosing a bolt action rifle.

Rifle Cartridges

 The first and most important consideration is the rifle cartridge. You need to make sure the rifle is chambered for the right cartridges. The ideal bolt action rifle should match your hunting cartridges. Most people confuse bullets with cartridges. Bullets form part of a cartridge.

There are varieties of rifle cartridges on the market. Luckily for you, most bolt action rifles fit a wide array of cartridges. You’ll find cartridges labeled caliber which goes to show the diameter of the bullet.

Generally, the chambering of the action bolt rifles will determine the kind of hunting or shooting you’ll perform. For example, the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridges are ideal for long-range hunting. If you’re looking to hunt big game, then consider rifles that support big bullets and cartridges.

Rifle action type and materials

Next, you need to consider the rifle action type and materials. Rifles can be divided into two main categories. These are the single shot and repeaters. A single shot, just as the name implies, is a rifle that allows you to fire a single shot before putting in a new cartridge. It’s also known as a push feed rifle.

We also have the repeater rifles which can hold several cartridges at once. Action rifles just as the name suggests have actions through which they eject cartridges.

Single-shot rifles tend to be sleek and appear elegant. Some hunters like them for their sleek and stylish looks. Single-shot action rifles are more like the historical rifles used in the old days. They create a feeling of nostalgia which some hunters like.

However, single-shot action rifles are not the easiest to use. They pose some challenges which some hunters prefer. In addition, single-shot action rifles can be categorized further into more classes.

The repeating action rifles also come in different classes. These include pump action rifles, bolt-action rifles, and automatic and lever-action rifles.

If you’re a beginner and choose a bolt action rifle for the first time, then consider a repeating action rifle. While single-shot rifles are accurate and elegant, you need skills and experience to handle them correctly. Shortly, I will discuss the experience as a consideration.

Apart from the rifle type, you also need to consider the materials used in construction. Bolt action rifles feature different construction materials. You can choose stainless steel or carbon steel materials.

Stainless steel action rifles are the most durable and reliable. However, they tend to cost more than carbon steel rifles. Rifle stocks also feature fiberglass or wood material. Different materials impact guns differently. For example, wood offers a unique feel in your hands. Make sure you choose a bolt action rifle that feels comfortable in your hands.

The current level of experience

Your experience level is another important factor when choosing a new rifle. If you’re relatively new to shooting, then consider a light bolt action rifle. There are several small bolt action rifle calibers on the market to consider.

For example, the .22 caliber is recommended for new shooters. It is easy to use and quite affordable. The rifle can offer you a great experience before choosing higher caliber rifles.

Any beginner rifle needs to be easy to use and maintain. You don’t want a high-caliber rifle that will be difficult to operate at first.

Bolt Size

You also need to choose the right bolt size. With bolt action rifles, there are different sizes of bolts to choose from. Bolt size is crucial especially when you want to make changes to your rifle. Are you looking to customize your rifle further?

Rifles with small bolt action diameters offer short bolt lifts. Rifles with a larger action bolt on the other hand offer smoother throws. There is no wrong or right bolt size. It all comes down to what works in your situation.

Optics

You’ll need to use optics when in the field. Does the rifle accept optics? Whatever the purpose, make sure you choose a bolt action rifle that supports different optics. The ideal rifle should support various optic attachments.

There are action rifles that even feature a built-in scope frame. Such rifles allow for easy optic fitting and shooting. This is important especially if you’re using rifles for long-range hunting.

Purpose 

Make sure you determine the purpose of the rifle before making a purchase decision. Bolt action rifles come in different calibers to suit different needs. You can only choose the right caliber when you understand the purpose.

For example, a .50 caliber works perfectly for deer hunting while a .30 caliber works for squirrel hunting. On the other hand, a .22 Magnum is suitable for rabbit hunting. As you can see, different gun calibers are best suited for different uses.

There are also bolt action rifles best suited for survival situations.

Budget

You’re not going to make a decision on the right bolt action rifle without considering your budget. How much are you willing to spend?

However, the good news is that most bolt-action rifles are affordable. You can get a pretty decent rifle for long-range hunting at less than $300.

Final Verdict

Well, that’s it from me! I hope you can now confidently choose a bolt action rifle. Knowing what to consider when making that decision is crucial. Make sure you understand the rifle purpose, cartridge chambering, rifle action, materials, bolt size, and if they support optics.

You can be sure of finding the best bolt action rifles by following our comprehensive guide.

Source: https://www.barrettrifles.com, https://www.wikipedia.org, https://www.fieldandstream.com

5 Tips for Choosing the Best IWB Concealed Holster for You

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Have you ever considered that you didn’t make the right choice in securing that holster you just acquired? Or you currently have a backlog of IWB concealed holsters that you stopped using after a few times, or you didn’t even wear at all?

Image source: 57center.com

And then you’re unhappy that you spent a lot of money to acquire them only to be disappointed with the turn of events. No matter how much assurance you get in the market, if you do not follow due process of selection, you’ll keep having a backlog of unfit concealed holsters. Choosing the best IWB concealed holster can be achieved if you heed the following few tips.

  1. Inspect the Material

There are two crucial materials used in producing the IWB concealed holster, which are leather and Kydex. For decades leather dominated the holster market, but with the advent of Kydex, holsters are becoming more comfortable.

IWB holsters are light, and the use of Kydex adds a bit of strength and thickness to them. The Kydex helps to balance the rubbing effect of the holster between the clothes and the body. They are also affordable and last longer.

When the weather is hot and humid, the Kydex holster will answer the call. The Kydex material brings the much-needed stability to the IWB concealed holster, so when selecting, ensure the holster has thick Kydex finishing before purchasing. The quality of craftsmanship when using Kydex allows it to achieve its purpose.

  • Observe the gaps

In selecting your IWB concealed holster, there is a high chance that there will be collapses in the holster after using it for a while. It is due to the internal pressure from the IWB holster towards the body, making it too tight for easy drawing of a firearm and reholstering without having to draw attention. When selection is going on, ensure that there is an allowable space within your IWB concealed holster. Also, make sure it is a Kydex material or a combination of Kydex and leather to avoid this problem.

  • Crosscheck Safety

Double-check all the essential safety measures. Observe the configuration of the sweat shield. The sweat shield is a part of the IWB concealed holster where all forms of moisture and dirt are swiveled away from the body; it protects against abrasion or cut when drawing the pistol from the holster.

Also, ensure that the trigger guard is entirely intact. When a wrong calculation ensues at this point, there are bound to be unpleasant occurrences in the future.

Examine the retention capacity of the IWB holster. However, they are an excellent retention holster, but in some shops, you may find that the holsters may have been adjusted. You have to keep an eye out for that as they can loosen within the period of usage. So you can examine properly for retention if you fix your firearm and hang it upside down while shaking it to ensure no movement.

You should also check out the flip side of the IWB holster to ensure proper reholstering so as not to have a careless discharge. Your IWB holster must agree with you and not fight against you when the time comes.

  • Test the holster

If after all the inspection of the holster and you fail to try it on, it’s as good as if you never went to purchase a holster! Testing the holster to ensure it’s comfortable and a good fit.

More importantly, you have to practice drawing your handgun with it to ensure that there’s no issue when the real test comes. Trying it on makes the whole difference as it ensures you won’t be stashing the holsters away anytime soon or going back to return them to the merchants.

Also, ensure that the holster’s weight is commensurate with your body size; the gun is already heavy. Don’t add extra inconvenience by selecting a heavy IWB holster.

This act also enables you to decide on the type of clothing accessories you will be putting on to accommodate your IWB concealed holster. The goal is to have the weapon concealed and ready for use when drawn. When trying it out, also ensure that you can sit comfortably with the IWB holster without flinching.

Also, check if the holster is in tandem with your dominant hand and the clips are present. Ensure all these, and you’re almost on your way to choosing the best IWB concealed holster!

  • Recall your training

During basic training, you were taught many things, one of which you’re about to embark on. You should ensure you go to the shop with your handgun when choosing your IWB holster. After acquiring your near-perfect IWB concealed holster with careful considerations, you’re faced with the task of constant practice with your full gear. Without regular exercise, your IWB holster will not be as effective as it is designed to. As often as you change your environment, it would help if you practiced acclimatizing to the situation around you.

Practice your drawing speed, gun handling, target, and positioning like everything depend on it.

No one knows when danger can come knocking; practice wearing your IWB concealed holster inside your house as well as training your loved ones on actions to take and primary usage of the gear in your absence.

Also, train your mindset and build your confidence level to overcome any form of assault when accosted.

Conclusion

There are many guns out there, and the ability to select the right concealed holster that will fit and enable you to use it perfectly well is an added advantage. Don’t let anyone discourage you and tell you otherwise. You are on your way to a perfect start, and although there will be challenges along the way, you have to stay true to your instinct and training. And above all, stay safe out there.

How To Choose Between Night Vision Devices

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The decision to choose between night vision devices is a critical one and requires careful consideration. It’s as important as the decision to buy it in the first place. 

How does a night vision device work?

A night vision device refers to an optoelectronic system that functions using a light converter, amplifying light by generating an image that the human eye can see. For night vision devices to function correctly, there’s a need for a minimum amount of external light like start light, moonlight or residual light from other sources.

Tiny lights or light generated by infrared (IR) illuminator and a night vision device. Some night vision devices have inbuilt short-range IR lamps with small, powerful illuminators. These offer a wide range, adjustments for light intensity and infrared light beam focus.  The electron beams fall on the photocathode and are amplified many times on a luminophore screen. 

This screen transforms the electron beams into photons and generates a visible image. Phosphorus on the luminophore gives off green light because of eye sensitivity. The human eye can only recognize colors in the 500-560 nm band, which corresponds with green and blue. With this band, it is easier to identify details than with other colors. 

How do you choose between night vision devices?

Here are a few factors to consider: 

  • Consider the generation of the night vision devices, if it is Generation 1,2,3 or 4
  • Consider the magnification
  • Look at your budget
  • Check the viewing ability of the device

Let’s take a look at some of the night vision devices available. 

  1. Night vision Monoculars
  2. Night vision Goggles
  3. Night vision binoculars
  4. Night vision scope
  5. Day/Night system

Night Vision Monoculars:

Night vision monocular is a single eye unit without magnification. They are also referred to as the swiss army knife in the night vision equipment category. A good monocular is the night-time device with the most versatile function. They are lightweight and portable, making them an ideal option for head mounting.

Higher generation monoculars can attach to spotting scopes and rifle scopes and also mount directly on a weapon. They can mount in front of red dot sight for night-vision compatible firearms. Some of these devices can also adapt to a camera and for photography using a camera adapter. They are often small and light so that they can fit into a shirt pocket. 

Pros

  • When you get tired, you can switch between your eyes so that the unaided eye will maintain your peripheral vision and night adaptation level
  • They are an excellent option for people who intend to multitask
  • They are the most versatile and also have more accessories to pick

Cons

  • The single eye doesn’t feel natural and may take time to get adjusted.
  • The user needs to master how to keep both eyes open so they can get the best experience. 

Night Vision Goggles:

Night vision goggles are devices that allow for viewing with both eyes. They have no magnification, and you can mount them. The fantastic thing about these goggles is that they have a natural feel when wearing them, and there isn’t so much involved in getting used to them. We have two types of goggles: a two eyepiece goggle that views using a single image tube and a two eyepiece goggle that views using dual image tubes, also called stereo vision.

A goggle is an effective navigation device, like monoculars. Double tube goggles provide stereo vision, which means that each eye will see its unique image, unlike the same object shared with both eyes. Dual perception helps in better determining distances and navigation, irrespective of where you’re going. Goggles work best in stationary observation and short-duration navigation. 

Pro

  • The stereo vision makes the dual tube goggles have more depth perception enabling better navigation ability. 

Cons

  • A goggle is heavier and less versatile than a good monocular. When a goggle mounts on the head, it causes the unit to go below the eyes while walking, thus making you tired with the extra weight. 
  • They cannot be adapted to rifle scopes or mounted on rifles
  • It has limited camera adaptation

Night Vision Binoculars:

Night vision binoculars are devices that have two eyepieces with an inbuilt magnification. They are generally heavy to mount on the head due to the big magnification lens, especially if it has a dual tube model. Also, the magnification zooms in too much, so you can’t navigate properly. They primarily magnify images at longer distances while at a stationary point.  Remember that the more magnification applied on a night vision device, the more dim the object will turn out because of lack of light.  

Pro

  • They are an excellent choice for close-in sighting and maximum distance.

Cons

  • Binoculars all have fixed magnification, meaning they zoom in, an exception of few models.
  • It’s not easy to navigate or view close areas using binoculars.

Night Vision Scopes:

Night vision scopes are of two types. The popular style is similar to a traditional rifle scope, only bigger and heavier, and are called weapon sights. The other type attaches to a regular rifle scope and is day/night systems because it is easy to remove, and you can use the range in the daytime. Another scope can see on the night hunting is thermal scope. Check more from Ellettbrothers.

Day/Night Systems:

A day-night system is a device that mounts to the objective of traditional daylight scope or directly on the rifle objective. These systems provide light amplification and use the magnification of the daytime scope for aiming. The day/night system is used for tactical settings, especially when the sunsets. You can attach this unit in front of your rifle, and you’re good to go. Its compact size and complex lens system do not gather much light, unlike a night scope. 

If you need a system that can function both day and night, nothing beats a sound day/night system. Ensure you get a high-quality daytime scope to gather enough light.

Best Tomahawks – Top 5 Best Rated Tomahawk Review

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Are you assembling your camping kit and think you have everything? Make sure you don’t forget a tomahawk. The best tomahawks is more than just a cutting tool. This is a versatile camping gear with several uses. It is a multi-purpose axe to help break down barriers, cut wood, kindling, hunt or use as a self-defense weapon.

Benefits of Using a Tomahawk for Camping to Combat

Tomahawks have been in use for years. Also known as the trade axe, this axe was traded between the French and English in the woodlands of India. The axe features a tapered or round eye with the helve fitting the eye tightly. You don’t need a hedge to secure the head to the helve something that makes the tomahawk perfect for use in the wilderness.

Moreover, this axe is very lightweight weighing roughly 1lb. It is quite easy to carry and use around. Despite the small weight, the tomahawk has one of the best cutting abilities. You can use it for throwing as a recreational sport, hunting, self-defense, and cutting.

Types of Tomahawks

  • Throwing: These tomahawks are used for recreational purposes in sports. They are usually weighted and balanced for a precise throw.

  • Breaching: These are heavier and sturdier tomahawks. They are perfect for breaking wooden doors and prying steel doors.

  • Tactical: Tactical tomahawks are ideal for self-defense and fighting. Most of them feature a blade and spikes.

What Makes a Good Tomahawk?

Cutting Edge

The best rated tomahawks feature longer cutting edges thus provide you with more force when cutting. When the cutting edge is long, the tomahawk is heavier and features a large dead. This provides you with more cutting ability. Chopping and splitting wood becomes a lot easier with long cutting edges.

Head Shape

There are different head forms and sizes on the market to match different needs. You can choose from a single head, double head or a spike head. Single head tomahawks provide more power and strength on the cutting edge. Double-headed tomahawks are perfect for throwing and increase your chances of a precise contact.

Weight

Different tomahawks in the market weight differently. Technology has made it possible to have lightweight tomahawks yet exceptionally sturdy and durable. The ideal weight is usually determined by your specific use. For example, a longer cutting edge is ideal for camping but this means a heavier tomahawk. We recommend a compact, yet lightweight tomahawk. Make sure you strike a good balance between weight and efficiency.

Best Tomahawk on the Market Review

1. Estwing Special Edition Camper’s Axe

Estwing Special Edition Camper's Axe - 26" Wood Splitting Tool with All Steel Construction & Shock Reduction Grip - E45ASE

The Estwing is our first choice of camper’s tomahawk and a pretty decent selection. It is a strong and durable axe with forged steel construction. This gives the axe maximum strength and durability for long-lasting use. Besides, the axe is pretty versatile for different outdoor activities. It is ideal for chopping logs, branches and small trees. You can also use to split kindling and firewood.

In addition, the axe features a heavy-duty sheath to protect your hand. The axe also features a genuine leather grip lacquered and hand-sanded for comfortable use.

Pros

  • Durable due to strong forged steel

  • Comfortable use due to genuine leather grip

  • Versatile for outdoor use thus a valuable pick

Cons

  • Striking end is not very wide or heavy hence reduced striking power

2. SOG Tactical Tomahawks

SOG Tactical Tomahawks - Throwing Hatchet, Throwing Tomahawk

This is another versatile throwing and survival tomahawk with a fast and true swing. The tomahawk features a razor-sharp 420 stainless steel hatchet blade. This is a lightweight yet heavy-duty axe weighing 20 ounces.  Besides, the axe features a sleek blade finish for added durability.

Overall, this is a woodsman to urban tactical tomahawk. The tomahawk secures firmly in the ballistic nylon sheath for easy carrying. This is a hammer axe edge with a piercing spike. It is a perfect choice for handling small chopping tasks.

Pros

  • Lightweight yet extremely durable

  • Ballistic nylon sheath hence pretty easy to carry

  • Spike edge for piercing and flat for edge for hammering hence versatile

Cons

  • Cheap sheath

3. SOG Outdoor Survival Hatchet and Tactical Tomahawk

SOG Outdoor Survival Hatchet and Tactical Tomahawk - Survival Hawk Camping Axe and Emergency Hatchet Tool

This is a perfect 12.1-inch stainless steel tactical axe and a perfect choice for camping and outdoor survival. The axe is perfect for chopping wood. It is a lightweight yet durable axe weighing 19.5 ounces. This is a small backpacking hatchet easy to carry and use wherever you go. This is a superb outdoor axe with a glass-reinforced nylon and paracord grip.

Overall, this is a perfect hunting and camping axe to fit just under your belt. It is pretty easy to use and comes with a fire starter and claw spike.

Pros

  • Lightweight hence easy to carry

  • Durable due to strong stainless steel construction

  • Quality ballistic nylon sheath hence comfortable handling

Cons

  • Small diameter handle

4. Smith $ Wesson Extraction and Evasion SW671 Tomahawk

Smith & Wesson Extraction and Evasion SW671 15.9in Full Tang Tomahawk

This is a full tang tomahawk with a durable blade construction. It is a perfect size tomahawk measuring 15.9 inches. This is an extremely lightweight design tomahawk weighing a mere 2 pounds and 11 ounces. This is a durable blade made of reliable 1070 carbon steel. The axe also features a black TPE steel handle.

Overall, this is a dependable axe with an easy and quick polyester sheath access. It is a secure blade that will not slip and cause injuries.

Pros

  • Knife with black side and pick side hence excellent preparedness

  • Quick and easy access due to a convenient polyester sheath

  • Reliable carbon steel hence durable

Cons

  • The plastic handle is not very comfortable

5. Estwing Tomahawk Axe

Estwing Tomahawk Axe - 16.25" Lightweight Hatchet with Forged Steel Construction & Shock Reduction Grip - EBTA

This is last best tomahawk and a quality choice with forged steel construction. It is a durable tomahawk with maximum strength and durability.  The axe offers versatile outdoor use making it ideal for camping, hunting and hiking. The axe features a pick end for breaching, extrication and excavation. You can also use to chop and cut small branches.

Overall, this is an excellent axe with a heavy-duty sheath and a patented shock reduction grip. This is a   comfortable and durable axe capable of reducing impact by 70%.

Pros

  • Excellent impact reduction

  • Lightweight hence easy to handle

  • Versatile uses

Cons

  • Poor sheath quality

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the best tomahawks on the market, then consider picking one from our exclusive list above. A tomahawk is a multipurpose tool that will serve you from camping to tactical. Make sure you understand your needs and choose one that best serves you.

Types of Night Vision Devices for Hunting

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Night vision devices were first developed during World War II and largely used in Vietnam by US solder. However, a lot has changed since WW2 with great evolution in night vision devices.  The devices were only available to solders but it is not the case anymore. Nowadays hunters are using night vision devices to make night hunting easier.

There is a unique world for hunters once the sun goes down. When out hunting at night or camping, you need the best night vision devices. It is pretty difficult seeing at night let alone hunting. So, what night vision devices are suitable for hunting?

It is worth noting that most night vision devices cost a fortune. This is why it makes perfect sense to understand the various types of night vision devices for hunting.  Having a basic knowledge of these devices and how they work can help you make an informed choice. There are different categories of night vision devices for hunting.

Night Vision Devices for Hunting

Below, we discuss the main categories of night vision devices

Night Vision Scopes

A scope is a common optical device usually handheld or mounted on the rifle. If you’re into hunting, you’ve probably used a scope. However, if you tend to hunt at night or early morning, then a night vision scope is recommended. Night vision scopes assist viewing in near-dark or complete darkness. They work by amplifying the available light to make the target visible. In fact, most do not offer any magnification but make it possible to see in darkness. Few night vision scopes offer magnification that is low from 1x to 2x and sometimes 4x magnification.

Image enhancement in total darkness relies on the amplification of the existing light. Even in total darkness, there are always bits of light present either from the moon and stars. We also have infrared light that people cannot see with naked eyes. The scopes amplify the available light enabling you to see what happens in the dark.

Night Vision Goggles

Unlike night vision scopes, goggles are handheld or worn over the head. These devices work on the same technology like night vision devices. They are ideal when you’re walking in the dark for long hours. You’ve probably seen solders where night vision goggles when attacking a place at night. These devices give you the advantage of others relying on naked eyes. While you cannot see the images as clear as they appear during the day, the goggles ensure you can maneuver your way around with ease.

This is crucial especially when using night vision goggles for hunting in thick and dark forests. It is worth noting that most wild animals have enhanced night vision. They can see 10 times better than humans at night hence the need for night vision goggles. In general, night vision goggles offer people a better experience of the night. The fact that you wear them over the head makes them convenient and easy to use. You still have your hands free to hold rifles and take down your targets in the dark.

Night Vision Binoculars

We also have night vision binoculars which are just normal binoculars but with enhanced night vision. They feature two eyepieces as opposed to scopes hence comfortable for long period viewing. A night vision binocular is one of the best night vision devices when tracking game at night. It offers enhanced night vision, better view and comfortable use for long periods. Most feature a 1x magnification thus suitable for scanning and scouting.

Thermal Scopes

Lastly, we have thermal scopes which use a different mechanism from night vision scopes.  Thermal scopes use a technology called thermal imaging. The thermal imaging technology from the scopes is able to capture heat emitted by objects. These devices basically detect different temperature variations of targets. They then transfer that entire heat-emitting area into a form of an image. This is seen as a red or blue color on your scope.

When hunting, animals emit heat which is easily detected by the scopes. You’ve probably seen thermal scopes in movies detecting persons thick in the forest. Thermal scopes have greatly grown in popularity and have many advantages over night vision scopes. They can perceive the slightest changes in temperature differences and send a signal to the scope.

Final Verdict

In conclusion, night vision devices are a must-have for a successful hunt in the dark. You’re not going to capture a game that sees 10x better than you in the dark. Depending on your specific type of hunt, you can easily choose one of the above night vision devices.

Night vision binoculars are suitable when scanning an area for extended periods. They are excellent for hunters that love to watch nocturnal nature. However, be aware of state regulations on hunting deer and bear using night vision devices. Some states prohibit the use of night vision devices for a certain game. For more details on these kind of hunting devices, you can check out OpticsAddict.com.

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