10 Different Types Of Ammo Needed For Predator Hunting

Choosing the right ammunition for predator hunting can be daunting, especially with countless options available. Did you know that calibers like .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO are commonly used in this pursuit? 

This article guides you through ten types of ammo tailored for different predators, simplifying your selection process.

Are you ready to learn the best shotgun load and become an expert on ammunition for predator hunting? Let’s dive in!

The Best Calibers for Predator Hunting

When it comes to predator hunting, several calibers stand out as the best options. Some of the best shotgun loads include the .223 Remington, the .22/250 Remington, and the .224 Valkyrie.

Each of these calibers offers different benefits regarding range, accuracy, and stopping power, making them essential for successful predator hunts.

.223 Remington

The .223 Remington is a standout option for predator hunting, prized for its power and controlled recoil mixture. This caliber offers hunters a versatile ammunition choice, proficient in toppling predators such as coyotes, bobcats, and foxes.

It’s often the go-to round used in AR-platform rifles specifically designed for these hunts. The accuracy of the .223 Remington is another key advantage that appeals to shooters.

Utilizing suitable bullets can make this caliber competent enough for deer hunting—however, this suggests shots within reasonable distances with an opportune broadside presentation.

.22/250 Remington

The .22-250 Remington is a masterstroke in predator hunting, prized for its lethal combination of high velocity and flat trajectory. No wonder renowned hunting expert Jack O’Connor often underscored this caliber’s speed when tackling thin-skinned predators.

The .22-250 Remington performs by firing .224 bullets from a longer, fatter case than the .223 variant. Its prowess isn’t limited to any specific type or size of predator; it effectively handles foxes, bobcats, and coyotes alike at varying ranges stretching into several hundred yards.

Undoubtedly one of the finest tools for varmint shooting and long-range hunting operations.

.224 Valkyrie

Ideal for predator hunting, the .224 Valkyrie boasts remarkable accuracy and power to outclass other popular calibers. It provides hunters with exceptional features – sub-MOA precision, impressive muzzle velocity of up to 3,300 fps, and the ability to shoot heavier bullets up to 1,300 yards.

These leave a predator with no chance of escape! What sets this cartridge aside is its compatibility with AR-15 platforms, opening doors for easy customization. Another striking advantage is its low recoil – 50% less than the widely used 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge.

This unique blend positions the .224 Valkyrie as an unmatched champion in different types of ammo needed for predator hunting.

.243 Winchester

The .243 Winchester is a highly versatile caliber perfect for predator hunting. It’s effective for predators and commonly used for hunting deer, hogs, and varmint.

With its accuracy and effectiveness, it has become quite popular among hunters. The .243 Winchester comes in various bullet weights, including 55-grain and 80-grain options.

If you’re targeting small varmints or pests, the 55-grain bullet will do the job with lethal precision. This bullet can reach muzzle velocities of up to 4,000 feet per second! Since its introduction in 1955, the .243 Winchester has remained one of the most iconic calibers for hunting.

.257 Creedmoor

The .257 Creedmoor is highly regarded as one of the best calibers for predator hunting. Its accuracy, velocity, and reduced recoil make it a top choice for many hunters. Specifically designed for varmint and coyote hunting, this caliber offers excellent bullet performance and downrange energy.

The .257 Creedmoor delivers precise shots at longer distances with its lighter weight and faster bullet speed. Known for being an all-around better round compared to other calibers, it’s no wonder why this ammunition is popular among hunters.

Whether targeting predators or varmints, the .257 Creedmoor provides the versatility and effectiveness needed to get the job done right.

6.5 Grendel

The 6.5 Grendel cartridge is a go-to choice for predator-hunting enthusiasts. Its impressive performance offers a great balance between power and maneuverability for AR-15 platforms.

This cartridge delivers superior accuracy and energy, making it effective at distances up to 400 yards. It achieves this with a 123-grain bullet that travels at an impressive speed of 2,580 feet per second from the muzzle.

The high ballistic coefficient of the Grendel allows for the use of longer and more aerodynamic bullets, ensuring precise shot placement. Popular options for 6.5 Grendel ammo include hollow points, ballistic tips, and soft points, providing hunters with various choices based on their specific needs and preferences.

6.5 Creedmoor

The 6.5 Creedmoor is a highly versatile and efficient cartridge that has gained popularity among competitive shooters and hunters. The Creedmoor stands out because of its exceptional accuracy, flat trajectory, low recoil, and high energy retention at long range.

With its lighter weight, faster velocity, and reduced recoil compared to other calibers, many consider it an all-around better round. Whether hunting predators or participating in competitive shooting, mastering 6.5 Creedmoor hunting ammo can greatly improve your accuracy and performance without breaking the bank.

This cartridge offers a range of available firearm platforms and ammunition options, making it one of the hottest choices in today’s firearms industry.

7.62x39mm

The 7.62x39mm cartridge is popular for predator hunting due to its versatility and effectiveness. This caliber is commonly used for coyote hunting and is known for its accuracy and low recoil, making it easier for shooters to maximize their abilities in the field.

The 7.62x39mm balances power and maneuverability, allowing hunters to take down predators with precision shots. With fragile lightweight bullets hitting high speeds, this cartridge delivers instant lethality on targets like coyotes.

Whether you’re an experienced hunter or just starting, the 7.62x39mm can provide reliable performance when pursuing predators in various terrains and distances.

.22 Magnum

The .22 Magnum, also known as the 22 WMR, is a highly effective caliber for predator hunting. It’s a versatile cartridge for short to medium-range varmint and hunting rifles.

With its exceptional accuracy and power, it can easily take down small games like rabbits and hares. When choosing ammo for predator hunting, consider factors such as bullet weight, shot placement, and range.

Popular brands like Federal, CCI, Hornady, and Armscor offer different types of .22 Magnum ammunition. 

12-Gauge Shotguns

12-gauge shotguns are popular for predator hunting, offering power and versatility in the field. With their wide range of ammo options, including buckshot and slugs, 12-gauge shotguns can effectively take down predators like coyotes or foxes.

The 12-gauge is the most common combat shotgun caliber, providing hunters with ample firepower to handle various hunting scenarios. Plus, if you’re using a semi-automatic shotgun, you’ll have even more options for customization and adaptability.

Whether you’re looking for close-range stopping power or the ability to reach further distances, a 12-gauge shotgun has you covered in your pursuit of predators.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Ammo for Predator Hunting

When choosing ammo for predator hunting, several key factors must be considered. Below are factors to consider when choosing the best shotgun load.

Versatility

With the unpredictable nature of predators, you need ammo that can adapt to various situations.

Whether you’re targeting coyotes or varmints, having versatile ammunition allows you to effectively engage your targets at different distances and in different environments. The right bullet should balance speed, accuracy, and terminal performance, enabling you to take down predators swiftly and efficiently.

By selecting versatile ammo, you can ensure you’re prepared for any scenario presented during your hunting adventures. So remember, versatility is key when choosing the perfect ammunition for predator hunting.

Bullet Weight

A heavier bullet typically has more stopping power and is better suited for larger predators like coyotes or foxes.

On the other hand, a lighter bullet may travel at higher velocities and be more effective for smaller predators like raccoons or skunks. Balancing speed and penetration is crucial when selecting the appropriate bullet weight.

Remember that different calibers have specific recommended bullet weights, so it’s essential to consult your rifle’s manufacturer guidelines before deciding.

Shot Placement

It is about the type of bullet you use and where you aim at the animal’s body.

Targeting vital areas such as the heart or lungs ensures an ethical and effective kill. This requires careful aim and precision.

You can quickly incapacitate your prey and minimize suffering by hitting these vital organs. The key is to deliver a clean shot that maximizes stopping power while minimizing unnecessary damage to the animal.

Proper shot placement also helps preserve the pelt’s value if that is your intention.

Range

The distance at which you engage your target can greatly impact the effectiveness of your shot.

It’s important to select ammo that performs well at the specific ranges you’ll be shooting. Some calibers, like the .223 Remington or .22/250 Remington, are known for their accuracy and long-range capabilities, making them ideal for hunters who expect to take shots from a distance.

On the other hand, if you anticipate encounters at closer range, opting for a shotgun with 12-gauge shells may be more suitable. 

Conclusion

When it comes to predator hunting, having the right ammo is crucial for success. From the popular .223 Remington and 5.56 NATO calibers to versatile options like .22-250 Remington and .243 Winchester, there are various choices available.

The best shotgun load can also be effective with specially designed shotshells for coyotes. Remember factors such as versatility, bullet weight, shot placement, and range when selecting your ammo.

DIY Western Coyote Hunt

Many years ago, I was invited to call coyotes out West. Being from a state that is 99% privately owned, the first question I asked was “How many acres you got?”. After a brief pause, he answered “Millions”. You see most of us guys that hunt the Eastern parts of the country are unaware that there are vast amounts of “public land” available for citizens to hunt. Basically, all that is required is a hunting license and a current map of these public lands. It is also a great idea to research the state regulations in the area you choose to hunt.  A couple of states don’t even require a license to hunt coyotes. For a guy like me that is from East Texas, where most properties are small and require landowners’ permission this was a very eye-opening revelation. You see, many times I must drive by prime places to hunt simply because I don’t have permission.  In many of the Western states, there are very large amounts of contiguous property you can hunt without having to ask or even open gates. With a little bit of scouting, you can spend a whole day or week hunting only prime locations.

hunting coyotes with the Bullet HP

With this ease of access comes a cost. Many of the easy to access public lands close to towns and cities are pressured by what I call “weekenders”.  If you will spend a little more time and get away from these high-pressured areas your success will go up dramatically.

So how would a guy get started finding a place to hunt coyotes out West? First, you must decide what region you would like to hunt. For instance, do you want to hunt the Southwest desert, the plains regions, or higher country regions? Do you want to hunt at night? Some states allow hunting at night with lights, NV, or thermal, some do not. After researching regulations and having decided on a region, I would begin researching maps looking for BLM lands (Bureau of land Management), as well as National Forest lands. These maps are readily available online. Some states also offer maps that include public lands where coyote hunting is allowed. Another great source of these maps is hunting apps such as onX. I personally use the onX app frequently, even in the East as it will show you private landowners’ names and boundaries.

Once you have narrowed down where you would like to go, I would do a search online and try and find an active online forum where coyote hunters gather to see if you can glean any more pertinent information pertaining to the area you have chosen. I would caution you not to be too specific with any inquiries on these forums as many coyote hunters are not too willing to give away the location of their honey holes.

Planning these Western hunts can be very fun and rewarding. I would encourage you to include a partner or two in these plans. Most of these areas will be somewhat remote. Going alone is not advised. If you decide to camp out be prepared. Most of these areas have maintained dirt/gravel roads and are very accessible by vehicle. You really don’t need to venture off very far from these roads to enjoy great calling opportunities.  While considering your plans you will need to decide whether you are going to fly out or drive out. Depending on where you are coming from and going to this could entail several hours to even days of driving and expense.  I have flown out West and rented an SUV many times and had great hunts cheaper than I could have driven out. Just look for a motel in a small town close to where you want to hunt. This way you can have a hot meal and shower each day.

If you are an Eastern coyote hunter and only dreamed of calling coyotes out West, then I hope this blog will give you a few tips that will encourage you to do so. Best of all, these DIY Western coyote hunts can also be very rewarding, successful, and done with a small budget.

-Professional Predator Hunter

Byron South

 

Planning and Executing Your Spring Wild Hog Hunts

As temperatures begin to warm and new growth begins to sprout there becomes an even greater need to control the number of wild hogs. While wild hogs can and do root up fields all year long, it is this time of year that they can cause very expensive damage to agricultural fields and crops.  Besides being very destructive to crops, hogs can also have devastating impacts on native wildlife.  Game birds such as turkey and quail nest on the ground. Hogs seek out these nests and can wipe out a whole generation of these birds in a single night. A quick google search will also reveal much evidence of hogs killing young fawn deer as well. This time of year, the days are longer, and the weather is more favorable. To take advantage of this time I will go over a few strategies and tips that hopefully will increase your odds should you decide to help thin out the hog population.

First, you will need access. Despite hating hogs, many landowners are understandably hesitant to grant access to strangers. There are things you can do to help ease their apprehension with this access. It helps to conduct yourself in a very professional and polite manner when contacting a prospect. First, I would avoid calling to ask for permission. Face to face is always best. If he does not know you it will be easy for him to say “NO” over the phone. If you must call first, simply ask for a chance to meet and discuss their hog problem.  This will not only give him a chance to size you up but, if he says “YES”, then he can show you where you have access. Take this time to get a little intel on where you think the hogs are coming from so you can devise a plan.

wild hog huntingOnce you gain access you will need a plan. There are lots of videos on the interweb that show big “shoot ’em ups” where large sounders of hogs are destroyed using semi-auto rifles and thermal scopes. There are also many videos that show lots of shooting but very few hogs are actually killed. For goodness sake…. Practice shooting and please be careful. Being reckless is not only dangerous but will result in you losing access. On the flip side, good, responsible shooting will not only maintain access but help you gain more access to neighboring properties.

While thermal and NV hunts are all the rage now, don’t dismiss hunting hogs in the daytime. Hogs seemingly disappear during the daytime, but they are not magic. During the day they will seek refuge in thickets often near water. The warmer it gets the more important the water is. Hogs do not have sweat glands so they will depend on water holes to help regulate their heat.  Getting into these thickets can be very difficult or almost impossible without being detected. Hogs have incredible noses so any effort to penetrate these thickets should include keeping the wind in your favor. An even better option is to play on their gregarious, territorial, and reproductive nature. This can be done by calling them out of their hidey-hole by mimicking the sounds of other hogs. It is much more reliable to call them out of these thick areas than to try and sneak up on them.  Simply get as close as you can to these areas and call them out. Hogs are very smart so realistic sounds are needed for this tactic to be successful. Convergent Hunting Solutions has developed the best wild hog sound library available. However, these sounds must be played on a device that is capable of reproducing these sounds. Both the Bullet HP and Sidewinder are very capable of reproducing these sounds with volume and clarity. Both of these devices differ from other game calls on the market as they use very powerful batteries to drive exceptional speakers delivering a full rich sound of both low guttural grunts as well as higher-pitched squeals, even at the same time. Be ready for some fast and fun action should you decide to try this method. There are lots of great videos on YouTube that will give you insight into what you can expect.

While it may seem that earlier I was dismissing the effectiveness of thermal and NV. I can assure you that I am not. Thermal and NV vision is a very effective tool. Hogs are more at ease at night and will venture out in the open more thus offering even more opportunities for guys invested in scopes capable of shooting at night. With this said, calling at night is also very productive.

One tactic we have used many times is calling hogs back after we shoot. Often when the shooting begins the hogs will scatter off into the thickets.  Let things settle for a couple of minutes and then begin calling again. These scattered hogs will often return looking to join back up with the sounder. Believe me, this works better than you would think.

wild hogsAnother underrated advantage of calling hogs is the ability to call hogs off properties you don’t have access to. This can be a time-saver to get them to commit and cross the fence earlier than they normally would. I have called hogs from a great distance using this method.

I am often asked, “do hogs get call shy”? While my answer may seem a little smart, I always reply “the dead ones don’t get any smarter”. This is my way of inferring you should be proficient with your shooting. I also believe the survivors (if any) are a little lonely and will respond again. While I do believe they will eventually become call shy, I don’t believe it is anywhere near the coyote level of call shy. To add to this, Convergent Hunting Solutions has a very extensive sound library that should be able to counter any call shy hogs.

Practice your shooting, be proficient in your tactics and strategies and I can assure you that you will have great success. Be respectful to landowners’ properties. Then word will spread, and you will have more properties to hog hunt than you can handle. Above all, be safe and have fun.

– Professional Hunter

Byron South

 

Calling Coyotes: East vs West

(The Grass is Always Greener)

Many years ago, I was asked to give a seminar on calling coyotes to a predator hunting club in Pennsylvania. I like to consider myself as a keen observer of not only human but animal behavior. With that, I could sense a tinge of distrust from some in the audience as I gave out my best advice on how to become a better predator hunter. After every seminar, I generally like to have a question-and-answer session to hopefully help clarify my methods. It was evident by the first few questions that many in this group were convinced that their coyotes were more intelligent and harder to call than my coyotes and since I was from Texas there was no way I could understand their plight. Some may imagine that in Texas there is a coyote behind every bush waiting for someone to blow a call and then cross an open prairie from 1000 yards away and present a chip shot at 40 yards. My fellow Texans wish it was that easy.

hunting coyotes in the East
East

Further out west in Arizona, I came across another skeptical audience. This group of fellow predator hunters were convinced my success in calling coyotes was because I was hunting un-pressured coyotes on large private ranches behind closed gates. I first learned to call coyotes in the thick piney woods of East Texas. Back then there were not many coyotes and successes were far and few between.

Since then, over the last 40 plus years, I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to call coyotes in most of the United States as well as Canada and Mexico.  With this knowledge, I can bring a unique perspective applicable in almost every state where you might try and call in a coyote or two. Coyotes are one of, if not the most adaptable animals on the planet. For this reason, they are also one of the most capable adversaries in the world of hunting. Regardless of where you are trying to call coyotes, I can assure you they are not going to be a pushover. If you don’t do your homework he will beat you, most of the time. This holds true whether you are hunting out West on so-called “pressured public grounds”, private ranches, or the thick stuff in the East.

western coyote
West

While I will concede there are certain parts of the country that are more conducive for calling in coyotes than others, there are certain things you can do that will up your odds regardless of whether you are in the East or West. Simply stick to the basics, do them well and often. Pay attention to the details, have an idea of where you think the coyote should or could be, slip in undetected with the wind in your favor, pick a stand location that will afford you a shot, if, and when he responds. Finally, use a quality call that produces realistic sounds. You may just find that the grass is pretty green on your side.

– Professional Predator Hunter Byron South

Tips and Strategies for Winning Predator Hunting Tournaments

Many people have differing opinions on Predator hunting tournaments.  While this is not the focus of this blog, I will offer my opinion for what it’s worth. I believe they are a great way to incentivize predator hunters to gather and meet, exchange ideas, and methods.  I also believe it is a way to incentivize predator control. Most of these contests are held right after the rut when many deer are vulnerable to predation and right before many does begin giving birth to next year’s fawn crop.

If you do decide to enter one of these tournaments you will quickly learn that they are very competitive. To compete and win you must have a good partner or two and a well-thought-out strategy.  These contests take place on set dates with usually either a 24, 36, or 48-hour period. Without a plan, you will just be donating your entry fee. Below you will find a few tips that will give you a better chance for success.

  1. Pick good partners. By this, I mean put together a good team of guys that understand calling predators and can shoot well. More experienced predator hunters can read the body language of incoming animals and make good judgments as to when to shoot/not shoot. This sometimes means the difference of picking up just one animal per stand or multiples.
  2. Have plenty of good ground to hunt. This is critical. Many guys save their better spots for tournaments and only call them during tournaments. You don’t want to waste precious time calling spots that have been recently called.
  3. Play the wind. Have spots lined up that will work in different winds and conditions and avoid calling places where conditions are not perfect.
  4. Plan a route to hunt. Whether you are hunting large properties or many smaller properties this still applies. Map out an efficient route that saves time.
  5. Don’t waste time on each stand. The overwhelming majority of predators will respond within the first few minutes of the stand. Don’t waste time on stragglers that may or may not come. We usually limit each stand to no more than ten minutes whether we called in a predator or not.
  6. Use good equipment. Accurate rifles with good day and night scopes will give you the ability to make shots that are not possible with lesser equipment. Familiarize yourself with this equipment and you can capitalize on every opportunity. One animal can make the difference of being in the money or not.
  7. Use a good call. While there are many calls out there on the market, most operate on AA batteries (1.5 volt) and utilize cheap “PA type speakers” and don’t produce the best quality sounds. Convergent Hunting Solutions produces a call (Bullet HP) that runs on much more powerful (3.8 volt) batteries and higher quality “cone type” speakers that produce a much fuller sound. This higher quality sound will not only entice reluctant or hesitant predators into responding, but it will also help those that do respond to finish out closer to the call.
hunting coyotes and bobcats

If you follow these few tips, you will give yourself the best opportunity for success while hunting these tournaments. With the payout for many of these tournaments being into the thousands of dollars, it could also end up being very lucrative. Remember to have fun, observe the rules/laws, and be safe.

Written by, Professional Predator Hunter,

Byron South

Convergent’s Holiday Gift Guide

As a hunter, I certainly look forward to the Fall and cooler weather. Being that this is the holiday season I also look forward to Thanksgiving and the countdown to Christmas and the new year’s celebrations. Spending time with friends and family during this time of year is priceless. During the lead-up to Christmas, we are looking for the perfect gift for our friends and family.

Hunters are some of the most difficult to buy for. There are so many products that cover every niche that it makes it even more difficult. Some guys are mainly either big game or bird hunters, but many of these guys also enjoy predator and/or hog hunting. This is where Convergent products shine. Below I have put together a short “gift guide” that will hopefully better explain the products offered by Convergent Hunting Solutions that will fit just about any budget or situation. These will include inexpensive gifts for coworkers, friends, or “stocking stuffers”, up to more expensive electronic game calls for those special, under the tree, Christmas gifts.

 

predator hand calls pro pack

(1) Convergent’s “Overseer” line of hand calls are great gift ideas. They cost less than 20 bucks each and even the “Pro Pack” which includes 3 calls is less than $35.00. These are great for any hunter’s stocking or for company Christmas party gifts. Buy several and surprise your friends and let them know you were thinking of them.

 

picatinny phone mount for rifle

 

(2) The “Picatinny Phone Mount” is a very unique product that connects to any Picatinny rail. When connected to your rifle it will hold your phone to film your hunt or control the Convergent apps hands-free. At less than $45.00 it’s a bargain and will fit nicely in a Christmas stocking.

 

Sidewinder game call

(3) The Convergent “Sidewinder” is a step up in price at less than $100.00. This product packs a punch for its size and would also fit inside many stockings or under any hunter’s tree. The Sidewinder is ideal for staying under the radar when calling in predators.

 

Bullet HP Game Call

(4) The “Bullet HP” is our flagship product and is priced at under $300.00. This is a premium gift for that special person. Pair the Bullet HP with the Convergent apps and you’ll be calling in the wariest predators in no time.

 

 

Bullet HP Complete Bluetooth Game Calling System

(5) The “Complete Game Calling System” includes the Bullet HP, Carry bag, and Picatinny Phone Mount all in one box. At just under $310.00 this will surely get a huge smile as it is unwrapped Christmas morning.

 

5 Pro Tips for Calling Coyotes in the Summer with the Bullet HP Game Call

Some might ask, why would you call coyotes in the summer?. We will not get into the “why” as many have very legitimate reason to call coyotes in the summer or any other time of year for that matter. However, should you find yourself wanting to call coyotes with the Bullet HP Game Call in the summer I will lay out a few tips that will hopefully increase your odds for success.

Tip 1. One of the most obvious things about summer is the heat. If you are not equipped to hunt at night, then you must concentrate your efforts on the coolest portion of the day. Early morning during the first few minutes of the day is the best time to call during the summer. You can use the pre-dawn darkness to help you get into calling position undetected. Also, by calling in the morning you will not be on a time crunch trying to beat a setting sun. Calling in the evening as the shadows begin to grow can also be a good time as well. Just not as good as early mornings. When choosing either of these times be aware that the rising or setting sun needs to be factored in. Imagine getting up early, sneaking into a calling location before sunrise, only to discover as the sun comes up it is in your face.

Tip 2. I use predominantly prey sounds such as Convergent’s “Cottontail #1” throughout the year as I’ve found they consistently produce results. However, during the summer, I will also mix in a few other sounds. A coyote’s parental instincts are at their peak during the summer making them very receptive to other sounds during this time of year. Sounds like Convergent’s “Puppy Whines”, “Red Fox Pup”, and “Bobcat Kitten” as well as the new “Co-Axer” sound are great sounds to use as a changeup to provoke a response during the summer. Also do not discount such sounds as any of our fawn distress sounds. I will generally start with a prey distress sound played at low to moderate volume. If I do not get a response in 3-5 minutes I will switch to one or more of these changeup calls played at low to moderate volume.

 

summer coyote

 

Tip 3. Be on the lookout for freshly cut hay fields. There are two particularly good reasons why you would want to call near freshly cut fields. The first reason is that oftentimes the mower will kill rodents which will attract predators. The second reason is the cut fields allow you to better see coyotes as they approach. I’ve had so much success in freshly cut hay fields that I get excited when I see a field I have access to being cut.

Tip 4. Calling coyotes at night. Calling coyotes at night can be very productive, but this method requires either a lot of skill with a light and/or the use of expensive night vision spotters and scopes. I could write an entire book on this subject, so I will not go too deep into this.  Just keep in mind that calling after dark during the summer means you cannot get started until after supper time as the days are very long.

Tip 5. Safety is always a concern so I would be remiss in not pointing out a few other things that must be considered when hunting during the summer. Snakes. During the warmer months, I always wear snake-proof boots while hunting. These type of boots are also incredibly good at keeping your feet dry when walking through the grass after the dew has fallen. Tick bite prevention should also be considered. I spray insect repellent not only on my boots and legs to help prevent ticks but also on my body to keep the mosquitoes at bay.

So, if you are going to get out this summer, we hope these tips will not only improve your odds for success but keep you safe while preparing for the cooler months.

– Byron South, Professional Predator Hunter

Convergent Statement Regarding App Functionality

From the outset, all Convergent Hunting Solutions smartphone apps were designed to be used as an intuitive interface to allow our customers to play our proprietary sounds through Convergent electronic game calls.  Convergent has never promoted, condoned, nor encouraged that our apps be used for any other purpose.  In fact, our sounds are recorded, edited, and specifically tuned for max quality of sound through our superior speaker systems.

It has become apparent that the apps were not being used as intended and were being used with lesser quality speakers. Unfortunately, we were being held accountable for inferior sound quality and even Bluetooth range.  To remedy this issue, we made the decision to mandate the use of a Bullet HP game call when streaming Bluetooth audio from our apps, thereby controlling the quality of the sound and the Bluetooth performance.

This change helps protect the integrity of the Convergent sounds while stopping widespread misuse of our apps with lesser quality speakers.  We made a public statement on social media channels and our website prior to the release of this update.

While we fully understand the frustration that some have expressed about this change, frustration originates from those not using Convergent electronic game calls and instead using the apps in ways not promoted, endorsed, or encouraged by Convergent.  The investment made in any of the Convergent apps or add-in purchases is very nominal and it’s safe to say that those using them without a Bullet HP, have gotten their money’s worth.

If you bought any of the Convergent apps, please be aware that they still function 100% in the way they have always been offered and promoted, which was to be used in conjunction with the Bullet HP or Sidewinder. It is also important to note that sounds can still be played directly from the phone speaker, or through a speaker plugged into the phone’s audio jack.

Convergent’s primary business objective is the sale of high-quality American-made game calls.  We are not in the app business. We provide our Predator Pro app for free and a minimal one-time charge for the other apps with the sole purpose of adding value to consumers of Convergent products. There are many options in the app store that allow playing game call sounds with any Bluetooth speaker. However, if you are looking for a great game call that offers superior sound, volume, battery life, extended range, built-in decoy, and customer support then we hope you give us a look.

Convergent is a small business that endeavors to bring high-quality, innovative products, to our customers that are proudly made in the USA, creating jobs here and not abroad.  To remain competitive, and create value, we built in more features not available on lesser quality imported devices. Our calls offer more powerful batteries, better speakers, more range, and the Bullet HP has a built-in decoy. These extra features add even more cost, but we have produced them in ways that we can offer them at a great value to our customers. We are thankful to our many loyal customers that have understood this and are continually looking for more and better ways to serve you.

Convergent Adds New Sounds to the Predator Pro App

We are pleased to announce the Convergent Hunting App Predator Pro (Version 1.6) will be released the week of July 5th. The update includes new coyote, bobcat and raccoon sounds available for purchase. Also, we have updated the Terms and Conditions for all five Convergent Hunting apps found on the Apple and Google Play stores. Specifically, the updated Terms and Conditions reiterates that the sounds are designed to be played strictly with Convergent Hunting game calls to ensure maximum sound quality.

All the Convergent apps were designed from the beginning as an intuitive interface for controlling Bullet HP Bluetooth Game Call. Easy to use day or night, the feature-rich Convergent apps have been proven to call in even the most elusive predators.

Night Mode, available on all Convergent Hunting apps, greys out the colors of the app.  For those that enjoy hunting at night with thermal gear, hunters can continue to use the apps to call in predators without drawing attention to themselves.

The Timer button is especially useful in helping keep track of how long you have played a certain sound or how long you have been on stand.

The Decoy button is designed to control the decoy included with the Bullet HP by turning it on and off. Note the decoy on the Bullet HP is silent and spins in both directions simulating a life-like action that is very effective at focusing a predator’s attention.

The Video function is a popular feature that taps into the camera on your phone for recording hunts. Facing in the direction of your rifle, catch all the predator hunting action on video by placing your phone in the Picatinny Phone Mount that comes with the Bullet HP Bluetooth Game Call Complete System.

Convergent’s exceptional sound library is the heart and soul of the Convergent predator hunting system. Recorded in high definition and edited to ensure premium sound quality, every sound has been extensively tested and proven in the field. Convergent has always understood quality over quantity leads to more success out in the field.

With the latest update to the Predator Pro app, we have added 9 new sounds that are available as a package with an in-app purchase of $1.99. These include two new bobcat sounds, two new coyote vocals, a coaxer sound, and four raccoon sounds. Simply update the app scroll down to the greyed-out sounds starting with Bobcats Mating and click to complete the purchase process.

Convergent Game Call App

New Sound Descriptions

  1. Bobcats Mating. This is a recording of a male and female bobcat during the mating process. Sure to attract bobcats all throughout the year and especially January-March.
  2. Courting Bobcats. This is a unique sound we were incredibly lucky to obtain. This is the actual audio of two bobcats vocalizing to each other prior to mating.
  3. Coyote Bark Howl. This is a great sound to use to close the deal on a reluctant coyote.
  4. Lone Howl. This can also be used as a change-up howl to the above sound or any of our other coyote vocals to provoke a territorial response.
  5. Co-Axer. The title of this sound is a bit of wordplay off the word “coaxer”. As the name implies, this sound is used to coax reluctant predators in the last few yards. Can also be used in tighter cover as a go-to sound to start off with. If you get a predator hung up at distance, this sound will help to get him to come on in.
  6. Baby Raccoons. Awesome sound to get a paternal response from all raccoons.
  7. Raccoon #2. A change-up call to help close the deal when calling raccoons.
  8. Raccoon Snarls. Another change-up call to add to any calling sequence when calling raccoons.
  9. Raccoon Chaos. A very busy sound that has proven to elicit very aggressive responses from raccoons. Be careful not to shoot your call as oftentimes the responding raccoon will attack the caller.

 

coupon

Tips on How to Call Hogs in the Summer

As the sun began to descend and the shadows began to grow, the temperature dipped back into a more tolerable level. It was then I left the comfort of my airconditioned truck and began heading towards a muddy slough I knew probably held some hogs. As I approached this slough, I knew that the odds of me slipping in close enough to them for a shot would be very slim. Even if I were lucky enough to slip up on them it would be tough to get off more than one or two shots in the thick tangle of vines and brush surrounding the slough. However, I had a plan.

One of the biggest things I enjoy as a hunter is the planning stages of the hunt. To form a good plan, you need intel on your intended quarry. This intel does not always require that you physically scout out your properties before the hunt. You can glean lots of information from other means such as using good old common sense and logic.  Hogs have no sweat glands so they cannot cool off by sweating. The most reliable means they have to stay cool is wallowing in mud holes near or in water. As the heat of summer increases, this becomes even more relevant information. Also, there is generally less water during summer so this will help pinpoint where you will focus your efforts. Finding a water source near a food source is even better. With this in mind, you will certainly increase your odds, but there is still another piece of the puzzle. Hogs have natural defenses that must also be accounted for in the plan. If the wind direction is wrong, all is for naught. Hogs have incredible noses capable of detecting your approach long before you can get to them. They also have great big ears that are not just for show. Even if you have the wind right, they will probably hear you slipping through the briars and brush before you see them.

So now that you know where they should be, accounted for their defenses, and how to defeat them lets us look at their weaknesses. Hogs by nature are very vocal and gregarious. They are also very protective and territorial. Here comes the most vital part of the plan and the final part of the puzzle. Use the hogs’ natural instincts to make them come to you instead of you going to them. This not only eliminates your need to enter his sanctuary, but if you have chosen the location well, they will have no way of detecting your presence with their eyes, ears, and noses. Simply get as close to their location as possible. Now that you have all the puzzle pieces together you are ready to begin calling.

Hog sounds require an exceptionally good caller to accurately reproduce the gamut of sounds that hogs make. In other words, hogs produce not only high-pitched squeals but also extremely low guttural grunts. Often at the same time. The Convergent Bullet HP and Sidewinder use exceptional high-fidelity, cone-type speakers that do an excellent job of reproducing these sounds. Using the Convergent “Wild Hog Pro” app, I will usually start out with a subtle sound such as “Sow Grunts” to see if I can get a response. Often you will hear them vocalizing back as they are coming to the call. If after a couple of minutes, I have not gotten a response I will often change to a more up-tempo sound such as “The Rally”. If still no response after another two to three minutes I will often change to “Sow Hysteria”. This is a great sequence to use to call whole sounders and/or lone boars. If you are wanting to specifically target large boars then I would concentrate on using any of the sounds denoted on the Wild Hog Pro app with the (B) before the title. If you have done your homework and followed good fundamentals, then they should respond.

Many are now realizing just how effective calling hogs can be at any time of the year. Calling hogs in the summer can also be extremely effective because of their need to congregate around water sources. Calling hogs in the summer can be some of the most fun and productive. Nothing is much better than watching a plan come together as a sounder of hogs emerge from the brush full tilt coming to the call. It will almost make you forget the summer heat.

Written by Byron South.

Byron South is a professional hunter with over 40 years of experience calling animals not only in the US, but across multiple countries, and continents.

 

Use code "gearup" for 20% off Convergent Game Calls!

Got it!
X

Convergent Hunting Solutions external menu

Anti fraud security on our website

1. Never and never disclose the pin-code of the card, as well as the CVV-code written on the reverse side. 2. Look carefully at the keyboard and reader when you intend to withdraw or transfer money. 3. Read reviews on cvvshop review 4. Turn on 3DS.