Big Buck Journal

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The journal for serious hunters.

Big BuckJournal

The Buck, The Why, and The Gear.

Every week: one giant whitetail, one lesson most hunters never learn, and the gear behind it.

Illinois Deer Rifles Are Getting Two More Rounds

An Illinois deer rifle may legally carry three rounds in 2027. The first one still matters most. The buck, the why, and the gear

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What you get every week

The Buck

One giant whitetail and the full story of how he lived, how he was patterned, and how he finally hit the ground.

The Why

One lesson most hunters never learn — the wind, pressure, or timing detail that actually made the difference.

The Gear

The exact setup behind the hunt — what Dale would buy again at full price, what he wouldn't, and why.

Latest issues

Illinois Deer Rifles Are Getting Two More Rounds

Illinois Deer Rifles Are Getting Two More Rounds

An Illinois deer rifle may legally carry three rounds in 2027. The first one still matters most. The buck, the why, and

Dale Richey • Aug 6, 2026

That Summer Buck May Vanish Before the Season Opens

That Summer Buck May Vanish Before the Season Opens

The mature buck on your summer camera may be somewhere else by opening day. The buck, the why, and the gear The

Dale Richey • Aug 4, 2026

The First Buck He’ll Never Forget

The First Buck He’ll Never Forget

One kid, one buck, and the Louisiana morning that becomes a lifetime memory. The buck, the why, and the gear One Kid.

Dale Richey • Jul 31, 2026

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