With millions of hunters across the country, any first time hunter can get millions of mixed reviews when it comes to starting hunting. Of course a cluttered email inbox isn’t a pleasure to begin with and it’s useless to point out the obvious as to what sort of gun you can use.

Basically speaking, any center fire rifle is considered a deer gun with the proper caliber and grain.

For any experienced hunter, they favor a lever-action Winchester. Powerful and accurate enough to produce a quick, ethical kill as well as loading another round in the chamber. Since most rifles are can compromise loading time once they load a cartridge into the bore, it will take another 3 to 5 seconds before another round can be loaded if a second shot is needed. Of course ever shot counts, despite the fact that most deer hunters will likely need to finish off the deer if it’s still fighting to survive.

There are several hunting rifles on the market, mostly made by Winchester, Remington, Ruger and Smith and Wesson that are considered as a hunter’s rifle of choice. Several models come with their own design and placement for low-powered scopes in order to increase accuracy.

Although certain hunting States have their own rules when it comes to what sort of caliber is required in order to hunt in that State, sometimes a more universal rifle will be needed if the hunter is planning to visit some, if not all the hunting grounds. In which case, the need to study and know what sort of laws are applicable in case they need to use a different rifle for ever caliber. So instead of rummaging through papers and other links on a State-owned website, just a .308 caliber will be suited for all hunting grounds.

What to choose, what to choose. Anyone would say a handgun is sufficient enough, if the State allows it. But they have to get close enough since most handguns have a distance of about 80 yards and the power needed to kill the deer would be nothing more than a graze. Since rifles are meant for sniping, thus the increased range, it is important to know what sort of rifle will be acceptable with all the rules and regulations in varying locations. So much for the elephant gun.

All too often, a hunter comes back disappointed because they lined up a good shot and watched the bear skin rug of their dreams limp off into the distance. While you could argue the toss as to whether or not the shot they chose was the right one, one thing that hunters often underestimate is the importance of packing enough fire power when going after the mighty bear.

Experts agree that a rifle needs to be at least a .300 for you to achieve success in the field. Further, experienced bear hunters recommend bolt-action rifles for their reliability - with the .338 Winchester coming near the top of most lists of favorite bear hunting weaponry.

While we're on it, a note about taking that bear shot. Many books and articles will tell you to aim for the shoulder, which will theoretically knock the bear down so you can take it out. Real experts, veteran bear hunters and outfitters will tell you that a better shot is through the lungs, every time.

In addition to the bow's handing, draw length and draw weight, there are other variables to consider when choosing the right bow for you, such as:

- The ATA, or axle to axle length, of the bow. Generally, a longer ATA makes for a more forgiving bow, but a shorter ATA is often considered more convenient
- Let Off is the amount of tension released by drawing the bow - common let offs are between 65 and 85 per cent.
- The distance between the string and the back of the riser is the brace height of the bow. In general, a higher brace height makes for a more accurate bow that's easier to shoot.
- Single, dual or hybrid cam bows are available, and choosing between them is up to your skill and confidence. A single cam bow is usually easier to handle, dual cam bows are faster but can be difficult to draw. The hybrid cam bow is relatively new and seems to offer the best features of both styles.
- Brand. This really is a matter of personal opinion - but it's worth considering what reputation the bow's manufacturer has with your fellow bow hunters. Most well-known brands come with a lifetime guarantee - but how easily can you act on this? Find out before you buy to avoid disappointment in the future.

Choosing the right weapon for firearms hunting is essential to success in your pursuit. Arguably the most popular weapon used in firearms hunts is the rifle. And there are plenty of variables to consider when hunting with a rifle. As you check out the hunting rifles on offer, consider it's fit, sight, weight and action, as well as it's caliber.

Judge the rifle's fit by holding the gun tight to you shoulder, and pressing your cheek against the stock. The stock should slide easily in and out of your armpit area, and the scope shouldn't bite into your eyebrow. With your cheek pressed against the stock, your shooting eye should be in line with the sight - if you need a shorter or longer stock, a gunsmith can adjust this for you.

The average hunting rifle weighs between six and ten pounds - lighter guns are easier to pack around, but heavier guns dole out less abuse when fired. The action of your rifle should be chosen by assessing your own skill and deciding what you need most. Bolt-action rifles are generally more reliable, particularly in cold climates or rough terrain.

Getting the calibre of your hunting rifle right relies on you having a sound knowledge of the game you're going after. While a .270 is fine for deer hunting, it's simply not enough for running down a brown bear.

The first question a lot of people intrigued by the notion of muzzleloaders ask is: what's a muzzleloader. In short, it's any sort of weapon you load through the muzzle. Generally, you pack gunpowder, followed by wadding, a projectile and a bit more wadding into the muzzle of your weapon.

Muzzleloader hunting requires a special kind of dedication. You've got to be an ace shot because you'll rarely have a chance to reload. You've got to enjoy maintaining your weapon because muzzleloaders provide the best results when they're clean. And, you'll have to be selective in terms of when you want to hunt and what you'd like to go after because muzzleloader seasons are different to the standard hunts in most states.

Safety, though important to all firearms handling, is exceptionally important in terms of muzzleloaders. It's vital that you are familiar with the manual for your weapon, follow the manufacturer's recommendations and never overload your muzzleloader. Also, bear in mind that lead is poisonous - don't eat while you're handling it and keep it where children can't possibly reach it.