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The Power of Box Breathing: Enhancing Precision Shooting and Focus

9/30/2023

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In the world of precision shooting, where every breath and heartbeat can affect your accuracy, mastering the art of controlled breathing is a game-changer. One technique that has gained recognition among marksmen is "Box Breathing." In this article, we'll explore how Box Breathing can help expel carbon dioxide (CO2), slow your heart rate, reduce wobble when aiming, enhance vision, sharpen your focus, and even assist in stabilizing your breath when hyperventilating.
Understanding the Importance of Expelling Carbon Dioxide
The human body's respiratory system operates on a delicate balance between oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. Contrary to what you might think, the body primarily senses the level of CO2 to regulate breathing. When CO2 levels rise, your body signals for more frequent and deeper breaths.
Box Breathing: Expelling Excess CO2
Box Breathing is a controlled breathing technique that focuses on equalizing the four phases of your breath cycle: inhale, hold, exhale, and hold again, each for a set count. This controlled pattern helps expel excess CO2 from your lungs, promoting a state of calm and focus.
The Benefits of Box Breathing for Precision Shooting
  1. Slowing Heart Rate: The deliberate and rhythmic nature of Box Breathing helps reduce your heart rate. A slower heart rate results in less movement and a steadier aim.
  2. Reducing Wobble: Steady breathing minimizes the natural wobble that occurs when aiming. As you maintain control over your breath, you'll find it easier to maintain your point of aim on the target.
  3. Enhancing Vision: Oxygen levels directly impact your vision. With improved oxygenation through controlled breathing, your visual acuity and perception become sharper, enabling you to spot targets more effectively.
  4. Calming Nerves: Precision shooting often involves high-pressure situations. Box Breathing can calm your nerves and reduce anxiety, allowing your mind to focus on the task at hand rather than distractions or worries.
"Out of Breath" and Stabilizing Breathing
In some high-stress scenarios, such as strenuous physical activity before a shot, you might find yourself heavily breathing due to an elevated heart rate and rapid breathing. In such cases, it's crucial to stabilize your breath before transitioning into Box Breathing. Here's how:
  1. Recognize Heavy breathing: If you are out of breath and breathing hard, be aware of the signs your breathing is ineffective, such as rapid or shallow breathing, dizziness, and tingling sensations. If you have heart problems or are seriously out of shape, the following doesn't apply. Get in shape and talk to your doctor.
  2. Slow Down Your Breath: Gradually slow your breathing by taking deep, deliberate breaths. Inhale through your nose and exhale through your mouth. Focus on extending each breath cycle slightly as you completely force out all the air from your lungs and fill them again. Doing this will push the CO2 out of your blood stream and signal to the brain that you don't need to breath as hard.
  3. Count and Regulate: As your breathing slows, count your breaths to ensure they become more controlled and even. Aim for a steady rhythm.
  4. Transition to Box Breathing: Once you've stabilized your breath and reduced the effects of hyperventilation, smoothly transition into the Box Breathing technique to further restore your composure and focus.
In Conclusion: The Art of Precision Breathing
In precision shooting, the difference between hitting your mark and missing it can often come down to your ability to control your body and mind. Box Breathing is a valuable tool in achieving this control. By expelling excess CO2, slowing your heart rate, reducing wobble, enhancing vision, calming your nerves, and assisting in breath stabilization when breathing heavily. Box Breathing equips you with the focus and precision necessary for successful marksmanship.
So, the next time you're on the range or in the field, remember the power of controlled breathing. Incorporate Box Breathing into your shooting regimen, and watch as your accuracy and composure reach new heights.
Happy shooting, and may your shots always find their mark!

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Mastering Mountain Glassing: A Hunter's quick Guide to method and Gear Protection

9/30/2023

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Deer hunting in the mountains is an adventure like no other. The thrill of tracking elusive game amidst breathtaking landscapes is a pursuit that draws hunters year after year. To increase your chances of spotting that trophy buck, you'll need the right tools and techniques. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore how to effectively glass for deer in the mountains using binoculars and tripods. We'll also dive into the importance of protecting your binoculars and tripods, to ensure they function flawlessly during your hunts.
Glassing for Deer: The Mountain Hunter's Advantage
Mountain hunting offers unique advantages, such as elevation and vantage points, which can greatly enhance your ability to spot deer. Here's how to make the most of it:
1. The Right Optics: Start with high-quality binoculars. Opt for a pair with sufficient magnification like 12x50 or 15x56 binoculars, to see the smaller details between 1000 and 2000 yards.
2. Steady Support: Invest in a sturdy tripod with a reliable fluid head or ball head. This provides stability and reduces fatigue during long glassing sessions. Consider lightweight carbon fiber tripods for easier carrying.
3. Setting Up: Find a comfortable spot with a clear view of the terrain you want to cover. Watch the view angles and feel free to move 50 to 100 yards and set up again, that can make the difference to see a bedded deer you couldn't see earlier. If possible, sit down for added stability. The Triple S Pillow, a best seller at LS Wild, can enhance your comfort during extended glassing sessions. Link to Triple S Pillow
4. Look For Deer Parts: Don't look for an entire deer; that's easy. Instead, focus on the details. Look into the shadows where they may be bedded. Watch for subtle motion, like an ear flick. Train your eyes to spot individual elements—a tine, a black nose, an ear flick, or a glassy eye.
5. Scan Methodically: Begin scanning slowly and systematically, covering the area in a grid or zigzag pattern to ensure you don't miss any spots.
6. Patience Pays: Spend time glassing each spot, as deer may be well-camouflaged and may not move until they feel safe.
Gear Protection: Safeguarding Your Investment
Now, let's shift our focus to the protection of your essential gear. Whether you're carrying it on the hunt or storing it during travel, safeguarding your binoculars and tripods is crucial. As hunters, we've designed specific gear for western hunters who are packing into ridges, bowls, and valleys. More will be released by LS Wild in the next six months.
1. Binocular Protection:
  • Lens Covers: Use objective and eyepiece covers to shield your binoculars from dust, debris, and scratches. These covers also help protect the lenses' coatings, preserving image quality.
  • Binocular Harness: Invest in a comfortable binocular harness that keeps your binoculars secure and within easy reach while reducing strain on your neck and shoulders.
  • Waterproof and Shockproof Cases: When not in use, store your binoculars in waterproof and shockproof cases to shield them from the elements and potential impacts.
2. Tripod Protection:
  • Leg Extension Locks: Keep dirt and sand out of your tripod's leg extension locks. Regularly clean and lubricate them to prevent damage and maintain smooth operation.
  • Carry Bag: Invest in a durable carry bag designed for your tripod. This not only keeps your tripod clean but also makes it easier to carry in the field. Nothing is worse than having the leg lock mechanism fail, that makes the tripod hard to deal with or, worse, useless.
Conclusion
Glassing for deer in the mountains can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience. With the right binoculars, tripods, and systematic scanning techniques, you can significantly increase your chances of spotting game. Additionally, protecting your gear is essential for maintaining the function, alignment, and collimation of your binoculars, as well as the longevity of your tripod.
By investing in quality optics, practicing effective glassing techniques, and ensuring proper gear protection, you'll be well-prepared for memorable mountain hunts. Remember, patience and attention to detail are key when glassing in the mountains, and your gear's reliability can make all the difference in your hunting success.
So, gear up, head for the mountains, and may your hunts be filled with exciting moments and successful spotting sessions.
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Building Solid Rifle Support in Alternative Shooting Positions

9/30/2023

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When you're out in the field as a hunter, you'll often find yourself in situations where conventional shooting positions just won't cut it. Whether you're perched on a rocky outcrop, kneeling in the tall grass, or standing tall in sagebrush, it's crucial to know how to build rock-solid support for your rifle. In this guide, we'll explore how to do just that in seated, kneeling, and standing positions using tools like bipods, tripods, backpacks, tree limbs, shooting bags, and trekking poles.

Prone is the most stable position, because of all the support the ground gives to your body, the bipod, and rear bag. With practice and planning with the right gear, you can get nearly as stable as prone to easily make shots out to 700 yards.

The MAIN POINT of this article is to use whatever you can to fill as much space as you can to support your body parts and the rifle to get as much support as you can.  For instance, bring the ground to your elbow with a backpack if you are seated.


1. Seated Position: The Bipod/Tripod's Advantage
Front Support: Tall Bipod or Tripod
The seated position offers stability and comfort for long-range shots. To build support, use a bipod attached to the rifle's forend. Extend the bipod legs to your desired height, ensuring a firm and level base. Keep your elbows on your knees to create a stable triangle and absorb recoil.
Rear Support: Backpack or Shooting Bag
To support the rear of your rifle, place a backpack or shooting bag under the stock. This elevates the rifle's buttstock, improving your shooting angle and overall stability.
2. Kneeling Position: Tripod and Trekking Poles
Front Support: Tripod
Kneeling provides a lower profile and better concealment. To stabilize your rifle, use a tripod with an ARCA clamp, tac-table, or V-yoke for firearms. Adjust the tripod's height roughly in line so that when you are in a relaxed position that it will hold your rifle against your shoulder and pointed at the target. Ensure it's steady on the terrain.
Rear Support: Trekking Poles, Backpack or Shooting Bag
For the rear, you have options. Trekking poles can be used by extending them and placing them under your rifle's stock, creating a makeshift monopod. Lean your arm and body against something like a backpack. Alternatively, use a shooting bag under your rear elbow for added support.
3. Standing Position: Nature's Support and Tripod
Front Support: Tree Limb or Tripod
When standing, Mother Nature provides an excellent front support option—lean against a sturdy tree limb or trunk to create a stable anchor for your rifle. The tripod or trekking pole can be rear support. Alternatively, use a tripod as front support like you would kneeling.
Rear Support: Shooting Bag or Trekking Poles
For the rear, employ a shooting bag or trekking poles. Shooting bags work well when positioned under your rifle's buttstock, while trekking poles can be extended and placed beneath your rear elbow for added stability.

Practice Makes Perfect
Building reliable rifle support in alternative shooting positions takes practice. Experiment with these methods on the range to find what works best for you. Try different heights, angles, and support options to become proficient in various field scenarios.

Remember, in hunting situations, things happen quickly. Being prepared to create solid support for your rifle, whether you're seated, kneeling, or standing, can make the difference between a missed opportunity and a successful shot.

So, gear up, head out, and master these alternative shooting positions. The wild awaits, and your precision shooting skills will shine in any situation.

Happy hunting, and may your shots always find their mark!
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First Round Impacts: 6 Long-Range Shooting Tips for Rifle Hunters out West.

9/30/2023

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Hey there, fellow hunters! Today, we're diving into the gear and a tip that's gonna help you with first round impacts at long range.

1. Shooting Bag: The foundation of steady aim  eliminating unwanted wobble. Invest in a high-quality shooting bag to cradle that rifle. It's your trusty companion for precision shots. There are lots of great options out there. Of course, we'd like you to consider the Thunderbird Long Range series of bags and LS Wild hunting specific lightweight bags. If you don't have the funds, a cloth bag and rice or plastic pellets will help you get going.

2. Front Support: Balance is key. Pair your rear support with a front support system, like a bipod or tripod. It's the dynamic duo for a rock-solid setup.

3. Trigger Control: Your ticket to the sweet spot. Master trigger control for that precise shot break. Remember, squeezing beats jerking any day.

4. Scope and Rifle Covers: Protect your investment. A rugged rifle cover shields your scope and action during rough hunts, making sure it's always ready for action. If you don't cover your action, dirt, snow, water, ice, leaves, etc. can cause all sorts of problems.

5. Tripod Magic: A versatile tripod can transform into a rock-steady shooting platform with the right attachments. We don't make any tripods, but there are lots of good options out there. I like very stiff legs, because the stability is noticable.

6. Tactical Table:  Its an option for a glassing hunter's workstation. A tactical table  provides a stable surface for your spotting scope or binoculars. When you glass up a buck, you can use it as front support for your rifle. Its also the fastest platform to set up and then use as support for your rifle without having to adjust a tripod head.

Whether you're stalking deer in the woods, chasing elk in the mountains, or venturing into the backcountry, your gear and practice will only help you with success and avoid eating tag soup.

Don't forget the accessories. A good glassing pad, a sturdy binocular case, and a comfortable bino harness are your allies for extended hunts. Protect your optics and action from dust, dirt, and moisture with reliable covers. Your gear deserves some TLC, too!

Remember, folks, precision shooting is about confidence and consistency. Invest in the right gear, practice like there's no tomorrow, and soon, you'll be making consistent first round impacts.

Stay tuned for some in-depth, no-nonsense gear breakdowns with your favorite hunting blog.

And as always, keep it safe, keep it fun, and keep hitting those long-range targets!
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    Author

    "Lobo" (Stephen Follett)
    Partner in LS Wild, LLC, founder of Thunderbird Long Range. 

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