Thru-Hiker Pit Stops

Editor's Note: This story was printed in our October issue before Hurricane Helene devastated portions of western North Carolina and surrounding areas. Destinations in this article are currently dealing with effects of the storm and most likely not able to be visited. Contact local officials for more information. Read how to help those affected by […]

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Following the Scent of Egypt's Jasmine

In the Nile Delta, farming the redolent vine is both a tradition and a vital way to make a living.
Source: Following the Scent of Egypt's Jasmine

Classic Hunting Rifles: The Top 10 Timeless Firearms for the Field

In the world of hunting, certain rifles have stood the test of time, becoming legends in their own right. These classic hunting rifles are more than just tools; they’re a testament to craftsmanship, reliability, and the enduring spirit of the hunt. Whether you’re stalking deer in dense forests or taking long shots across open prairies, these firearms have proven their worth time and again. Let’s explore the top 10 classic hunting rifles that have earned their place in the annals of hunting history.

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• Bagging Big Antlers: Tips for Hunting Elusive Bucks

1. Winchester Model 70

Sometimes called “The Rifleman’s Rifle,” the Winchester Model 70 has been a favorite among hunters since its introduction in 1936. This bolt-action rifle gained fame for its smooth action and exceptional accuracy. Initially chambered in popular calibers like .30-06 Springfield and .270 Winchester, it later expanded to include a wide range of options from .22 Hornet to .458 Winchester Magnum.

The Model 70 has been used for everything from varmint hunting to big game pursuits in Africa. Its pre-’64 models are particularly prized for their Controlled Round Feed action, which was briefly discontinued but later reintroduced due to popular demand.

2. Remington 700

Introduced in 1962, the Remington 700 quickly became one of the most popular bolt-action rifles in America. Known for its strength and accuracy, it has been offered in nearly every major caliber, from .17 Remington to .458 Winchester Magnum.

The 700’s success isn’t limited to hunting; it’s also the basis for many military and law enforcement sniper rifles. Its versatility makes it suitable for everything from small game to dangerous big game hunting. The rifle’s reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy has made it a favorite among hunters and competitive shooters alike.

3. Savage 99

The Savage 99, introduced in 1899, was revolutionary for its time. This hammerless lever-action rifle used a rotary magazine, allowing it to safely use spitzer bullets – a significant advantage over other lever-actions of the era. It was offered in various calibers, including the .250-3000 Savage, .300 Savage, and .308 Winchester.

The Savage 99’s unique design made it particularly well-suited for deer hunting in heavy brush, where its quick handling and hard-hitting cartridges excelled. Its popularity lasted for nearly a century, with production finally ceasing in 1997.

4. Winchester 94

The Winchester Model 1894, or simply “Winchester 94,” is perhaps the most iconic lever-action rifle in history. Designed by the legendary John Browning, it was introduced in 1894 and remained in continuous production until 2006 when it switched over to limited production. The rifle gained immense popularity with its most famous chambering, the .30-30 Winchester.

The Winchester 94’s compact design and quick handling made it ideal for hunting in dense forests and brush country. It became known as “the deer rifle” across much of North America. While primarily associated with deer hunting, it has been used successfully on a variety of game, from black bears to wild boars. It is touted as the rifle that has killed the most deer in America (unsubstantiated).

5. Ruger M77

Introduced in 1968, the Ruger M77 combined classic styling with modern manufacturing techniques. This bolt-action rifle featured a Mauser-type action and was initially offered in popular calibers like .270 Winchester and .30-06 Springfield. Later versions expanded to include everything from .204 Ruger to .458 Lott.

The M77’s integral scope mounts and its ability to handle high-pressure cartridges made it popular among hunters seeking a durable, versatile rifle. It’s been used successfully on game ranging from pronghorns on the open plains to elk in the mountains.

6. Marlin 336

The Marlin 336, introduced in 1948, is a lever-action rifle that has given the Winchester 94 a run for its money in the deer woods. Typically chambered in .30-30 Winchester or .35 Remington, the 336 is known for its side ejection, which makes mounting a scope easier than on top-ejecting lever actions.

The 336’s reputation for ruggedness and reliability has made it a favorite among hunters who appreciate its quick handling in dense cover. It’s particularly popular for deer and black bear hunting in heavily wooded areas.

7. Weatherby Mark V

Roy Weatherby’s flagship rifle, the Mark V, was introduced in 1957 and quickly gained a reputation for strength and accuracy. Designed to handle the high pressures of Weatherby Magnum cartridges, it’s been offered in calibers ranging from .240 Weatherby Magnum to the powerful .460 Weatherby Magnum.

The Mark V is known for its distinctive styling and butter-smooth action. It’s particularly popular among long-range hunters and those pursuing large or dangerous game. The rifle’s ability to handle extreme pressures has made it a go-to choice for hunters seeking maximum velocity and energy.

8. Remington Model 8/81

The Remington Model 8, designed by John Browning and introduced in 1906, was one of the first successful semi-automatic rifles. It was later updated to the Model 81 in 1936. These rifles were offered in calibers like .25 Remington, .30 Remington, .32 Remington, .35 Remington, and even .300 Savage.

The Model 8/81’s semi-automatic action made it popular among hunters who wanted quick follow-up shots, particularly when hunting dangerous game like bears. Its long-recoil action was known for reliability, making it a trusted companion in the field.

9. Remington 76 series (760 & 7600)

The Remington 76 series, including the 760 and 7600 models, are pump-action rifles that have earned a devoted following, especially in the northeastern United States. Introduced in 1952 with the Model 760, these rifles offered the quick follow-up shots of a pump action combined with the accuracy typically associated with bolt-action rifles.

Chambered in popular calibers like .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, and .308 Winchester, the 76 series rifles became favorites for deer hunting in areas where brush was thick and shots were often quick and close. Their smooth action and point-ability made them excellent choices for hunters on deer drives.

10. Marlin Model 60

While not typically considered a “classic” in the same vein as some larger caliber rifles, the Marlin Model 60 has earned its place in hunting history. Introduced in 1960, this .22 LR semi-automatic rifle has become one of the most popular rimfire rifles ever produced.

The Model 60’s affordability, reliability, and accuracy have made it a staple for small game hunting and pest control. It’s often the first “real” rifle for many young hunters, used for squirrels, rabbits, and other small game. Its low recoil and high capacity tubular magazine make it ideal for teaching new shooters and for high-volume hunting scenarios.

Honorable Mentions – Classic Hunting Rifles

While our top 10 list covers many of the most iconic hunting rifles, several others deserve recognition:

• Sporterized military surplus rifles (Springfield 1903, Krags, Enfields, Mausers, etc): These rifles, modified for sporting use, provided an affordable entry into high-power rifle shooting for many hunters.

• Browning BAR: Introduced in 1967, the Browning BAR (Browning Automatic Rifle) brought semi-automatic capability to the hunting fields in a sleek package. Offered in calibers from .243 Winchester to .338 Winchester Magnum, it’s suitable for a wide range of game. Its gas-operated system reduces felt recoil, making it popular for heavy calibers. The BAR’s blend of rapid fire and accuracy has made it a favorite among hunters who appreciate quick follow-up shots, especially in dense cover or for driven game.

• Ruger 10/22: Since its 1964 introduction, the Ruger 10/22 has become one of the most popular rimfire rifles in history. This .22 LR semi-automatic is known for its reliability, accuracy, and incredible modularity. Nearly every part can be customized, leading to a vast aftermarket. While often used for plinking, the 10/22 is also a favorite among small game hunters. Its low recoil and high accuracy make it ideal for hunting squirrels and rabbits, serving as an excellent introduction to hunting for many young shooters.

• Remington Nylon 66: The Remington Nylon 66, introduced in 1959, was groundbreaking for its use of synthetic materials in firearm construction. This .22 LR semi-automatic featured a stock made from Zytel, a type of nylon, when wood was still the standard. Despite initial skepticism, the Nylon 66 proved incredibly durable and resistant to the elements. Its lightweight design and reliable performance earned it a devoted following among small game hunters and plinkers, paving the way for widespread use of synthetic materials in modern firearms.

• Ruger No. 1: Introduced in 1967, the Ruger No. 1 is a premium single-shot rifle with a falling-block action. Offered in a vast array of calibers, from varmint rounds to elephant gun cartridges, its versatility and compact design have made it a favorite among hunters who appreciate its challenge and elegance. Known for its accuracy and strength, the No. 1 is popular among skilled hunters and long-range shooters. Its single-shot design encourages careful shot placement, making it particularly favored for hunting large or dangerous game.

Dishonorable Mentions – Classic Hunting Rifles

While most classic hunting rifles earned their status through reliability and performance, some fell short. This is my personal opportunity to throw some shade at a well-loved rifle that still isn’t a good rifle.

Remington 74 series (74, 742, 7400, 750): Despite their popularity, these semi-automatic rifles were plagued with reliability issues, particularly in harsh conditions. The first two versions were self-abusing rifles that literally ate themselves to death, slowly peening the inside of the receiver until it locked up forever. Later versions solved this issue but it was too little too late and their quality control had slipped. Many Remington 7400s and 740s had fitment and chamber issues out of the box.

Further reading from a certified gunsmith: TFB Armorer’s Bench: Commentary on the Remington 74 Series

Conclusion – Classic Hunting Rifles

The world of classic hunting rifles is rich with history, innovation, and time-tested performance. From the smooth action of the Winchester Model 70 to the quick-handling Marlin 336, each of these firearms has earned its place in the hunting world through years of reliable service in the field.

Whether you’re a seasoned hunter with a favorite rifle that’s accompanied you on countless trips, or a newcomer looking to choose your first hunting firearm, these classic rifles offer a blend of tradition and performance that’s hard to beat. They remind us that while hunting technology continues to advance, there’s something special about shouldering a rifle that has been proving itself in the hands of hunters for generations.

As we look to the future of hunting and firearms technology, these classic hunting rifles serve as benchmarks of quality, reliability, and effectiveness. They continue to influence modern rifle design and maintain a devoted following among hunters who appreciate their history, craftsmanship, and field-proven capabilities. So did we miss any classic hunting rifles? Do you have one of these beloved rifles? Any good hunting tales with them? Let us know in the comments below!

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Tying Tuesday: Woolly Buggers, Blue-Wings, and Damsels

Winter keeps trying to make an appearance, so while we wait, why not tie some flies? This week’s Tying Tuesday is an interesting mix of streamers, dries, and nymphs, so there’s something here for everyone, even if you don’t primarily chase trout.

Does the Woolly Bugger need any improvements or changes? The folks at All Points Fly Shop say they’re not trying to reinvent the wheel with this pattern, but they are trying to make a few changes that’ll improve on this already fantastic fly. What do you think?

I’m a sucker for any blue-wing emerger pattern, and this Skinny Timmy BWO looks like something I’ll be throwing in my box for next spring. It’s a no-hackle pattern that should sit low in the surface and imitate both emergers and cripples.

Davie McPhail has the last pattern this week, a foam damsel nymph that looks really simple. I know I criminally underutilize damsel fly nymphs in my neck of the woods, so this is a good reminder to use these flies more often.

The post Tying Tuesday: Woolly Buggers, Blue-Wings, and Damsels appeared first on MidCurrent.

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AO Review: Native Path "Native Hydrate" – Don't Cramp Up, Keep Going!

We live in a society of Go! Go! Go! and I will sadly admit I am a part of it. Running from one engagement or task to the next, we are constantly on the move, and I am not simply talking about the rat race in the concrete jungle. On any given day, I am feeding cattle, picking eggs, walking dogs, hunting, writing, working out, and/or doing outdoor photography. Moreover, raise your hand if you drink coffee like you breathe oxygen (I quietly raise my hand). In the hectic lives we live we are often over-caffeinated and dehydrated. This can lead to long-term negative health effects, and in the short-term, it can horribly hamper your ability to drag a deer out of the woods. For all of those reasons, I have been more mindful of how much water I drink everyday and am trying to not cramp up checking the mail. So, today we are going to take a closer look at a product that should enable to us to remain well-hydrated for longer in Native Path “Native Hydrate” which is an electrolyte and amino acid drink mix. Let’s dive in!

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Specifications: Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix

As we mentioned before, Native Path “Native Hydrate” is a simple electrolyte and amino acid drink mix that you can mix with water to really improve your hydration efforts. Just add 1 scoop to every 12 – 16 ounces of water you’re desiring to drink. Then, mix thoroughly, and enjoy! It’s that simple.

• Restore Whole-Body Hydration: 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated. The cause can be as simple as not drinking enough water, or from taking certain medications. By supplementing with electrolytes like sodium, potassium, and magnesium, you're effectively restoring hydration, energy, and muscle, heart, and digestive health.*
• Reduce Brain Fog: Your brain is roughly 73% water.* This is why dehydration often leads to symptoms like headaches, brain fog, and irritability. Proper hydration with water and electrolytes has been scientifically proven to maintain cognitive functions like memory, focus, and mental alertness.
• Support Muscle Health: BCAAs boast a wide range of benefits for muscles—from promoting muscle growth to enhancing muscle recovery after physical activity.* This is why we included a 2:1:1 blend of BCAAs—L-leucine, L-isoleucine, and L-valine—to give your muscles the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy.
• Zero Sugar: To compliment Native Hydrate's peachy mango flavor, we added a touch of pure stevia extract. This sweetener is 100% natural, zero-calorie, and zero-glycemic.
• Clean Ingredients With High Bioavailability: We source the highest quality, bioavailable forms of vitamins and minerals to ensure optimal absorption and effectiveness. Take our sodium, for instance. Rather than opting for sea salt, we exclusively obtain our salt from Pakistan’s Himalayan region. This deliberate choice eliminates any potential worries about microplastic contamination typically associated with sea salt (a concern prevalent among other electrolyte mixes).

Native Hydrate is a zero-sugar electrolyte and BCAA drink mix that supports hydration, energy, and muscle health. It combines 14 vitamins and minerals, all 9 essential amino acids, and 2,000 mg of BCAAs into one convenient scoop. Simply add to water and enjoy.

Supplement Facts & Ingredients: Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix

The one thing that caught my eye about this electrolyte and amino drink mix is that it doesn’t have any of the “junk” in it. You know what I mean. No food dyes, unnecessary fillers. The garbage that is in the so-called drink mixes you find in the pop aisle of the grocery store. This is an actual health product that has been mindfully constructed to of benefit to our health and hydration needs.

INGREDIENTS: Thiamine (as Thiamine HCI), Riboflavin, Niacin (as Niacinamide), Vitamin B6 (as Pyridoxine HCI), Folate (as Calcium 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate), Vitamin B12 (as Methylcobalamin), Biotin, Pantothenic Acid (as D-Calcium Pantothenate), Choline (as Choline Bitartrate), Calcium (from Lithothamnion spp), Magnesium (as Magnesium Citrate), Zinc (as Zinc Amino Acid Chelate), Sodium (as Himalayan Rock Salt), Potassium (as Potassium Citrate), BCAA 2:1:1 (L-Leucine, L-Isoleucine, L-Valine), L-Glutamine, L-Glycine, L-Lysine HCI, L-Threonine, Taurine, L-Phenylaline, Choline Bitartrate, L-Histidine, Calcium Carbonate (from Lithothamnion spp. (Aquamin)), Inositol, L-Tryptophan, L-Methionine.

OTHER INGREDIENTS: Citric Acid (flavor protector), Malic Acid (flavor protector), Natural Flavors, Stevia Extract, Beta-Carotene (for color), Silica.

What’s the Upsell? Why Native Path?

There is next to no market or product in the world that is without competitors. So, a simple yet important question that should be asked is: “What’s the upsell? Why should someone choose Native Path over competitor X,Y,Z?” Well, for me, the reason was that Native Path uses natural ingredients and they have a transparent product (no secret gross fillers). Here are a few ways – according to Native Path – that they've paved the Path for you...

• Ingredients From Nature, Not a Laboratory: Each of our ingredients is sourced ethically, sustainably, and with your health in mind.
• Uplifting Community: A community of over 1,000,000 people worldwide. And a Private Facebook Group of over 50,000 people where we share daily health tips, encouraging stories, and monthly health challenges.
• Educational Resources: With offerings like paleo recipes, free courses, and the latest health news, so you can feel equipped and empowered to live a healthy lifestyle.
• GMP-Certified: Each of our supplements is made in the USA and produced in a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Certified Facility.
• ����Trustworthy Testing: No supplement leaves our warehouse without a Certificate of Analysis (COA).

Putting it to the Test: Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix

So, how did I actually use this product and how did it perform for me?… Like I alluded to in the beginning, I live a manic lifestyle like many of you and that begins from the moment I wake up with lots of coffee. Being a healthy person most of my life, I have reasonably fit yet I am still deficient in certain areas like my hydration. By not consuming enough water and/or having too many diuretics in your life (coffee, energy drinks, beer, etc), you are hurting your overall health if done for long periods of time.

To combat this, I started using Native Path “Native Hydrate” a couple months ago. Upon waking and before I drink my first cup of coffee, I would mix a glass of water with Native Path “Native Hydrate” to start my day off hydrated. This has helped cut that “morning mental fog” much better than trying to chug coffee. Do I still drink coffee? Of course. But, now I have seen myself drinking less coffee because I don’t feel like I need it to be mentally sharp in the morning.

I have also brought it with me to the gym when I workout in the morning. So, I am not only improving my hydration, but the additional supplementation of amino acids is helping with my workouts and the recovery of them as well.

By mixing in Native Path “Native Hydrate” into the water I drink, I also find myself more motivated and wanting to drink more water throughout the day because the Peach Mango flavor I tested tastes great. Water can be boring to hit whatever you goal is for the day, but adding in some Native Path “Native Hydrate” makes it taste better and nearly seem like a treat for yourself.

I also liked to see that Native Path “Native Hydrate” used the hydrate smarter, not harder marketing phrase because my father has told me my entire life to “work smarter, not harder.” So, why not apply that to our health and hydration needs? It’s a no-brainer.

Departing Thoughts

So, what are my final thoughts on the Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix?… Overall, if you are slackin’ in your hydration like I am, you would absolutely benefit from using this electrolyte and amino acid drink mix. It tastes great – and although I haven’t been able to try their other flavors – it is a safe assumption they probably taste great, too. Also, at the price of $50 per jar, they are not overly expensive considering it is bettering your health.

In closing, I want to say thank you to Native Path for allowing AllOutdoor and myself the opportunity to try out their Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix. That is greatly appreciated. Also, we would like to know what all of you guys and gals think? Do you believe that the Native Path “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix are something worth spending your money on? Would you use some at the gym? As a daily part of your diet? As always, let us know all of your thoughts about Native Path and the “Native Hydrate” Electrolyte & Amino Acid Drink Mix in the Comments below! We always appreciate your feedback.

The post AO Review: Native Path “Native Hydrate” – Don’t Cramp Up, Keep Going! appeared first on AllOutdoor.com.

Source: AO Review: Native Path "Native Hydrate" – Don't Cramp Up, Keep Going!

Police: 26-year-old southern Indiana man dies following crash in Kentucky

Alex Bailey, 26, was pronounced dead at the scene by the Warren County Coroner's Office.
Source: Police: 26-year-old southern Indiana man dies following crash in Kentucky

Trump picks Project 2025 co-author Russell Vought to lead budget office


Source: Trump picks Project 2025 co-author Russell Vought to lead budget office

Jeremy Roach's buzzer-beating 3-pointer gives Baylor 99-98 win over St. John's in double OT

Baylor gets a buzzer-beater in the Bahamas.

Source: Jeremy Roach's buzzer-beating 3-pointer gives Baylor 99-98 win over St. John's in double OT

Packers CB Jaire Alexander reveals torn PCL in right knee, not season-ending injury

The Packers cornerback attempted to play in Week 11, but could go only 10 snaps.

Source: Packers CB Jaire Alexander reveals torn PCL in right knee, not season-ending injury

2024 NBA Cup standings for in-season tournament: Warriors first to clinch spot in knockout rounds

The Pelicans were also the first team to be eliminated from knockout contention
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