If some animals are good at hunting and others are suitable for hunting, then the Gods must clearly smile on hunting. –Aristotle
If I could give my life in 2012 a title, I think I’d call it Switching Gears. In more ways than one, switching gears is exactly what I’m doing. For starters, I’ve moved from the East Coast to the West Coast, leaving the security of my position at the NRA to start a graphics business in the industry. And if that isn’t enough, I thought I’d make life a bit more interesting. For the first time in my life I’m going to lay down my “black guns” and try my luck at shouldering a hunting rifle. What the devil have I gotten myself into? . . .
I see my friends posting their latest trophies on Facebook and think, it can’t be that difficult. Have gun, will travel, right? In a word, notsomuch. Well, I surely can’t handle this alone so I will be dragging all of you along with me.
You’ll be there while I sit down and sift through all the state tag information and Oregon State unit draws. Which game will I be hunting? What climate will I have to prepare for? Will I be stalking prey in thick brush or the great wide open? And do they have rest stops anywhere out there?
You’ll get to sit back, shake your head and chuckle as I suit up. Fretting over Realtree AP vs. Mossy Oak, all the while wanting Optifade because, well, it’s cool. And keep in mind I’m OCD. My gear must match. Mixing Under Armor with my Sitka Gear just isn’t an option (and I know that isn’t just a hang-up chicks have).
And let’s not forget, I still need a gun. I’ve had the pleasure of shooting everything from a WWII grease gun to a full auto HK MP5 but I don’t know the first thing about a good hunting rifle. Oh, and did I mention I’m a lefty when it comes to long guns?
So sit back, buckle up and enjoy the ride. I’m sure there will be more than a few bumps along the way. Right now I’m going to play some Wii. Cabela’s Big Game Hunter, to be exact. This should be good . . .