(1) Instead of New Rifles, Consider Used Ones Used rifles lower the cost of hunting, and is a great way to deal with the cost. If you're careful about buying the right rifles, you can really end up saving a lot of money. A new rifle is at least a couple hundred dollars, and naturally branded ones are only higher. Look for a dealer near you that deals with used rifles. Also, make sure with the dealer that the rifle was being used legally prior to being sold again. Make sure you always inspect your purchase, since many rifles look good in writing, but end up being paper-weights. When doing an inspection, make sure you look around the firing pin, and make sure it's not eroding.



Anytime you see erosion on the firing pin, it means the rifle wasn't being maintained properly. Another thing to look at is the bolt, pull it back and let it go. Any good rifle's firing pin won't go off. Make sure there's also no rust stuck up in the bore, and look carefully in the barrel grooves, as that tends to get rusty as well. Ever think about buying a gun online? Not a good idea, the law has it so the gun has to be inspected by a Federal Firearms License holder before being sent out. That inspection isn't free either, so don't think you're going to be saving much money after the online bargain is really totaled up.

(2) Buy Rifle Scopes, Knives, and Accessories Online Although buying guns online is a pain in the neck, buying accessories for cheap is a little easier. Accessories like scopes and knives can be found at great discount prices depending on where you look. The best bet are online stores you trust, if they are online based, the lower operation costs typically means a savings for you, the consumer. Here's an sample, the Nikon Monarch 2.5-10x42 Matte BDC is a third cheaper on the Internet. If you went to your local retailer, prepare to shell out triple the amount! And if you want an even better deal, try ebay, you may end up saving a ton!

(3) Go Hunting in Group Expeditions What many don't realize, similar to finding a roommate, adding a person to your expedition can cut down on costs tremendously. If you dare go hunting on your own, prepare to spend thousands, or even tends of thousands of dollars. If you think about traveling and accommodation expenses, it may be better to split the bill with a friend or two. Not to mention, there are hunting packages that offer group discounts, you just have to check. Guides aren't always necessary either, if you already know the area, you may just want to skip the guide altogether. This is only for advanced hunters, but those with the know-how can certainly save a lot of money.

If you are just starting though, save yourself headaches and wasted time, just get a guide. In the end it's important you look into it, do some research, and don't just take the first thing you see. What works for you may not be the best for you, but be open, you never know what you may find.

Happy (bargain) Hunting