Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: What's the difference between thermal scopes and traditional rifle scopes for night hunting?
A: Thermal scopes detect heat signatures, allowing you to spot animals in complete darkness, fog, or dense brush where traditional scopes fail. They're ideal for hog hunting and predator control when visibility is zero.
Q: How do I choose between a fixed magnification and variable scope for precision shooting?
A: Fixed magnification offers superior optical clarity and repeatability for known distances, while variable scopes provide flexibility for multiple ranges. Match your choice to whether you shoot consistent distances or varied terrain.
Q: What mounting system should I use for long-range rifle scopes?
A: High-quality rings and mounts from brands like Spuhr, Talley, or American Rifle Company ensure zero shift under recoil. One-piece mounts offer more rigidity, while split rings allow scope adjustment but require proper torque specs.
Q: Why use a bipod versus shooting bags for rifle stability?
A: Bipods from Atlas or Harris provide quick deployment for field shooting, while shooting bags from Area 419 or Armageddon Gear excel at bench precision. At Fehner Firearms, we stock both for hunters needing mobility and target shooters prioritizing consistency.
Q: What caliber rifle should I choose for South Texas deer and hog hunting?
A: For deer, .243 Win through .308 Win offers adequate power with manageable recoil. For hogs, especially in thick brush, .308 Win or larger provides necessary stopping power and penetration through heavy shoulder bones.
Q: How does firearm action type affect accuracy and maintenance?
A: Bolt-action rifles like those from Bergara and Tikka deliver superior accuracy and simpler maintenance. Semi-autos from brands like CMMG offer faster follow-up shots but require more frequent cleaning due to gas system fouling.
Q: What's the advantage of premium optics brands like Nightforce or Vortex over budget scopes?
A: Premium optics maintain zero under heavy recoil, offer better light transmission in dawn/dusk conditions, and include lifetime warranties. Fehner Firearms recommends investing in quality glass that won't fail during critical moments afield.
Q: When should I choose a shotgun over a rifle for hunting in Texas?
A: Shotguns excel in dense brush for close-range hunting and are required for some game birds. Brands like Benelli and Beretta offer reliable semi-autos, while Browning and CZ-USA provide affordable over-unders for upland birds.
Q: How do I properly zero a rifle scope at 100 yards?
A: Start with bore sighting, fire a 3-shot group, adjust windage and elevation in the scope's direction (not the rifle's), and confirm with another group. Quality mounts from EGW or Talley prevent shift during this process.
Q: What ammunition grain weight should I use for different hunting scenarios?
A: Lighter bullets (55-150 grain) offer flatter trajectory for longer shots, while heavier bullets (150-180+ grain) provide better penetration and energy retention. Match bullet weight to your typical shooting distances and game size.
Q: How often should I clean my firearm to maintain accuracy?
A: Precision rifles benefit from cleaning every 50-100 rounds to maintain consistency. Hunting rifles can go longer between cleanings but should be cleaned after exposure to moisture. Our experience shows that proper storage prevents more damage than heavy use.
Q: What's the benefit of cash purchases at firearm stores?
A: At Fehner Firearms, cash firearm purchases receive a 3% discount, saving you money on already competitive pricing. This applies to rifles, shotguns, and pistols from our extensive selection of premium brands.