Varmint hunting
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Varmint hunting is the practice of hunting vermin, generally small mammals targeted as a means of pest control, rather than for food. Varminter may refer to a varmint hunter, or describe hunting equipment either specifically designed for, or suitable for varmint hunting, such as a Varmint rifle. Varmint hunters may hunt to protect their own property, for a bounty offered by another landowner or the government, or simply for sport.
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[edit] Targets of varmint hunting
The term varmint is a US colloquial term for vermin, though it refers more specifically to mammal or bird pests, including:
- predators, such as coyotes, which can kill farm animals
- rodents, such as prairie dogs and groundhogs, that can damage cropland or pastures or carry disease
- invasive species of animals that are displacing desirable native species
[edit] Products
[edit] Characteristics
Since varmint hunting is a form of pest control, and minimally regulated by law, the definition of what constitutes a "Varminter" product tends to vary by regional pests. The definitive varmints are ground burrowing animals such as groundhogs and prairie dogs. These animals are small and difficult to approach closely, and hunting them requires a long range, highly accurate rifle. Because of this, most products labeled varminter will generally fit the following characteristics:
- high velocity, for a flat trajectory (see external ballistics)
- lightweight bullets, designed for minimum pentration (see terminal ballistics)
- extreme accuracy, for the ability to hit small targets at long range (see accurize)
[edit] Examples
- Bushmaster AR-15 based Varminter model; includes extended heavy barrel, adjustable trigger, and no iron sights (being designed for dedicated use with telescopic sights).
- Ruger #1 Varminter single shot rifle; equipped with scope base and rings for telescopic sight, available in high velocity calibers with extended heavy barrels. While the trigger is factory set and locked, the trigger does include sear engagement and overtravel adjustment screws, which can be adjusted by a gunsmith.
- Savage Model 12 Varminter, in the new .204 Ruger caliber; includes adjustable trigger, and free floated extended heavy barrel, no iron sights, and a benchrest style stock.
- Sierra Varminter line of bullets; light weight, hollow point and soft point bullets designed for high velocities, minimal penetration, and maximum expansion needed for varmints.
[edit] External links
- Varminter.com, an online varmint hunting magazine.
- "Varminter Biathlon", a sporting match designed to simulate varmint hunting conditions.
