Hunting is a sport that takes time, planning and the right tools. Without the proper preparation, you may as well try to hunt with a sharpened stick. That’s why, for all your planning and time, you deserve to have a gun that will do the job you need it to every time you squeeze the trigger. But where should you start? Let’s ask the pros at a gun shop in Olathe, KS to share information about the important features you should be looking for in top-quality hunting rifles:
- Trigger: The trigger is arguably one of the more important features of any gun. An amateur will pick up a rifle thinking their skill is all that matters, but a professional knows the little things can make all the difference. Older guns likely have a single-stage trigger, making them less accurate when pulled, but double-stage triggers allow for a more gradual and even pull that allows the shooter to stay on target until the shot leaves the barrel.
- Sights: There are a number of different options when it comes to sights. While many hunters prefer an optical telescopic lens, others prefer going with the basics of the gun’s own sights, called iron sights. Where add-on sights can give you an advantage in the long shots, the crosshairs can drift as the recoil of the rifle shakes the optics.
- Recoil: Recoil is an issue with any gun when it comes to accuracy. Even a small caliber can mean a missed shot if handled incorrectly. When it comes to rifles, the recoil pad on the butt of the gun can be the difference between a quick follow-up shot and a missed opportunity. Making sure you can handle the recoil from your hunting rifle is key to being comfortable—and successful—with it.
- Stock: Too often, people buy a gun because of how it looks—it’s shiny, it’s a favorite color or the shape is nice. But the stock plays an integral role in a successful hunt. While wood may look quite nice, polymer stocks can take a beating without affecting how the gun works. Wood can warp and crack if mistreated by the owner or exposed to a harsh environment.
- Barrel: Like the other options we mentioned, the barrel is an essential part of a rifle’s accuracy. A thick bull barrel can make for a steadier shot over distance, but it also means extra weight. A tapered barrel is great for trekking, but heats up quickly and can allow for more recoil than a heavier barrel.
Whether you are a seasoned hunter or going on your first hunt soon, the key to a successful hunting trip is taking the right gun with you. And now that you are more familiar with the most important features to look for in a hunting rifle, carefully consider which gun shop in Olathe, KS you’ll be visiting to buy a new or used gun.
At Harrison Street Pawn, we encourage you to speak with our firearms experts about your gun needs, and to ask all your questions before making a purchase!