The word "Varmint" was used some time ago as a descriptive word for a farm pest that originally included animals recognized  as larger size predators such as foxes, coyotes, and even wolves.  However, most folks have downsized the pests of choice when they think about "Varmints".  Today's varmints are pests like rabbits, raccons, squirrels, gournd hogs, prarie dogs, and such.

The typical varmint hunters from the past would be the owners of the property being damaged. They would deal with the"pesky critters" with whatever was available. Now days  more folks are brings in "Varmint Hunters" for sport hunting or a chance at a government agency bounty.

Varmit hunting enjoys a unique status as it is minimally regulated by the law, so then the mehtods for hunting the "pesky critters" is open to interpretation.  In some cases, there are no bag limits unlike bigger game animals.

Because most of the varmints in the US are smaller and difficult to closely approach, it necessitates a long range, highly accurate rifle and a light weight terminal ballistics.  A small, light, fast bullet gives a flat trajectory and it also produces less noise that might scare off the other "pesky varmints".

Most rifles have sufficent power to eliminate those "pesky varmints" from the property, but the dedicated "Varmint Hunter" requires a rifle that addresses a variety of features bearing a marked similarity to those special characteristics of a target rifle more so than the everyday hunting rifle.

Fortunately for today's serious "Varmint Hunter" there is a way to acquire a rifle that meets this specialized need.  It starts with a basic Ruger 10/22 rifle, and you assembling a few well chosen after market accessories.  So here is the list--

• For fast action shooting, a semi-automatic rifle is the preferred weapon of choice.  An ergonomically correct bolt handle facilitates clearing the chamber and won't shred your finger with repeated charging actions.

• An "Open" or "Iron" sight is a good choice normally, but todays "pesky varmits" are nocturnal  and require a quick target acquisition in  a low light setting. Therefore an even better choice would be to add a laser targeting system to enhance your chances.

• Standard 22 long rifles provide adequate speed and range, but a longer heavier target or "bull" barrel would guarantee accurate deilivery.  This barrel modifcation also allows more shots over a period of time before the barrel heating can affect accuracy.

• Varmint rifles tend to be chambered for a wide variety of cartridges, but it is the opinion of most folks that a standard 22LR would get the job done.  Today's varmit hunters know better, and they are seeking after calibers that are faster and more accurate that the standard 22LR in order to be better and more efficent in their pest removal. The right choice is by far then the .17 Mach 2 hollow point, which provides the right weight and speed for delivery of the terminal ballistic payload.

• When dealing with those "pesky varmint", you will need a lot of ammo, so it just makes sense to carry it along in several quick loading bananna clips. And it makes even more sense to strap on a clip holster be able to  slide those clips right out as you need them instead of fumbling in your vest or pants pocket as the target jumps just out of range.

Busy Bears Varmint Hunitng