Emperor Franz Joseph surrounded by his gamekeepers after taking a magnificent 12-point red stag in Mitterweißenbach near Bad Ischl on August 24, 1912. Photo: Lower Austria Provincial Collections More than 55,000 game animals, countless days on the mountain, and a lifelong passion for the hunt—Emperor Franz Joseph I was far more than the ruler of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. In the forests of the Salzkammergut, the rugged peaks of Styria, and the legendary hunting grounds surrounding Bad Ischl, he was simply what he loved most: a mountain hunter. His hunting exploits became part of Austrian history and helped shape the country’s hunting traditions for generations to come. Whenever Franz Joseph exchanged his military uniform for a green loden jacket, leather breeches, and his signature chamois-feather hat, the most powerful man in Central Europe disappeared for a few precious hours. Out in the mountains, there were no ministers, no court ceremonies, and no politics. There was only the hunt. Long before sunrise, the Emperor would leave the imperial residence with his trusted gamekeepers, climbing steep alpine slopes and crossing dense forests in pursuit of red stags, chamois, roe deer, and black grouse. Hunting wasn’t simply recreation—it was balance, discipline, and a way of life. Historians often describe Franz Joseph as Austria’s greatest hunting monarch. During his nearly 68-year reign, he is believed to have harvested approximately 55,000 game animals, including red deer, chamois, roe deer, wild boar, capercaillie, and black grouse. Every animal was carefully recorded in the Imperial Hunting Journals, reflecting the Emperor’s meticulous character. The Emperor of the Alps Today, Franz Joseph is remembered as the elderly monarch with his impressive white beard, green hunting coat, leather shorts, and alpine walking stick. That image wasn’t crafted for publicity—it reflected who he truly was. Unlike many European rulers who preferred lavish royal hunts filled with aristocratic spectacle, Franz Joseph found peace in the solitude of Austria’s mountains. No place meant more to him than the Salzkammergut. He spent nearly 60 summers in Bad Ischl, calling it his true home. From the Imperial Villa, he ventured almost daily into the surrounding hunting grounds. Mürzsteg, Eisenerz, Offensee, Langbathsee, and Radmer also ranked among his favorite alpine destinations. A Photograph That Captured History For this article, the historic black-and-white image was carefully colorized using Adobe Photoshop. One of the most iconic images of Emperor Franz Joseph was taken on August 24, 1912, in Mitterweißenbach near Bad Ischl. Standing beside his loyal gamekeepers, the Emperor poses behind a magnificent 12-point red stag harvested earlier that day. At the time, Franz Joseph was already 82 years old. Yet he continued to hunt regularly. The photograph is remarkable because it doesn’t portray a ruler displaying power—it shows a hunter among fellow hunters. His professional gamekeepers stand proudly beside him, while the mature stag dominates the foreground in the classic European “strecke” tradition, displaying the harvested game with dignity and respect. For this article, the historic black-and-white image was carefully colorized using Adobe Photoshop, revealing the rich greens of the traditional loden clothing and offering a vivid glimpse into Austrian hunting culture more than a century ago. His Gamekeepers Were More Than Guides The men standing beside Franz Joseph were far more than hunting companions. They were highly skilled professional gamekeepers responsible for monitoring wildlife populations, tracking mature stags, recording harvest data, and ensuring that every imperial hunt was conducted flawlessly. Many were considered among the finest mountain stalkers of their era. Long before “wildlife management” became common terminology, these men practiced many of its core principles—monitoring animal populations, observing rutting behavior, documenting harvests, and maintaining healthy game numbers throughout the imperial hunting estates. The Emperor valued sustainable game management and expected his hunting grounds to remain productive for future generations. A Hunter Defined by Discipline By today’s standards, harvesting more than 55,000 animals sounds almost unimaginable. Yet the number must be understood in historical context. Franz Joseph hunted for more than six decades, often several days each week. Imperial hunting parties lasted for days and took place across some of Europe’s richest game country. Contemporary accounts consistently describe the Emperor as an exceptionally disciplined marksman who took mountain hunting seriously and continued making demanding alpine stalks well into old age. What Rifle Did the Emperor Carry? Franz Joseph also witnessed one of the greatest revolutions in sporting firearms. During his lifetime, hunting rifles evolved from muzzleloaders and single-shot break-action guns to modern bolt-action repeaters. The Emperor maintained close ties with Austria’s firearms industry in Steyr, where Ferdinand von Mannlicher revolutionized rifle design. By the late 19th century, Mannlicher repeating rifles were increasingly used during imperial hunts. Franz Joseph also owned finely crafted custom sporting rifles and elegant break-action guns built by Austria’s finest gunmakers, including those from Ferlach. The legendary Mannlicher-Schönauer, introduced in 1903, appeared during the final years of his reign. While it is often associated with Austrian hunting history, historians cannot conclusively confirm that it became one of the Emperor’s regular hunting rifles. A Monument to Austria's Hunting Emperor The Famous Hunting Monument in Bad Ischl The admiration Austria’s hunting community held for Franz Joseph is still visible today. In 1910, on his 80th birthday, the famous Hunting Monument of Emperor Franz Joseph was unveiled in Bad Ischl. Historical records report that nearly 3,000 hunters marched past the Emperor during the celebration. The bronze statue portrays him not as a military commander or monarch, but as a hunter—with walking stick, traditional hunting attire, and a mature stag resting at his feet. No other image better reflects how Austria’s hunters chose to remember their Emperor. A Legacy That Lives On The collapse of the Austro-Hungarian Empire brought an end to the imperial court hunts, but Franz Joseph’s influence remains deeply rooted in Austrian hunting culture. Traditional loden clothing, leather breeches, chamois hats, hunting horns, and the immense respect for professional gamekeepers all remain defining elements of hunting in the Alps. Franz Joseph never viewed hunting as merely a social event. For him, it was a lifelong calling. Perhaps that is why, more than a century after his death, he continues to fascinate hunters around the world. Behind the Emperor stood a man who found peace in the mountains, lived for the stalk, and left an enduring mark on Austria’s hunting heritage. To this day, Emperor Franz Joseph is remembered not only as one of Europe’s longest-reigning monarchs—but as Austria’s most legendary hunter.

Master gunsmiths like our Schuss & Stille firearms expert David remain fascinated by the Mannlicher-Schönauer. Few sporting rifles enjoy the legendary reputation of the Mannlicher-Schönauer. Its silky-smooth bolt throw, revolutionary rotary magazine, and unmatched reliability made it an icon more than 120 years ago—and one of the most sought-after classic hunting rifles to this day. For Schuss & Stille, firearms expert David Mischkulnig of Alpen Adria Hunting & Sporting Arms in Villach, Austria, takes a closer look at this timeless Austrian masterpiece and explains why it continues to earn the respect of hunters around the world. Born in Steyr, Built to Last The Mannlicher-Schönauer story began at the turn of the 20th century at the Austrian Arms Factory in Steyr. Two legendary engineers shaped its design. Ferdinand Ritter von Mannlicher, one of the most influential firearms designers of his era, developed the bolt system, while Otto Schönauer perfected the ingenious rotary magazine that remains unique even today. Together, their innovations created one of the finest sporting rifles ever built. Originally designed as a military rifle, the action was adopted by the Greek Army in 1903 after extensive trials. Although its military career remained relatively limited, the action quickly found new life in the hunting world. Sporting models soon followed and remained in production until 1972. The Rifle of Legendary Hunters The Mannlicher-Schönauer became much more than just another sporting rifle—it became the trusted companion of some of history’s greatest hunters. African ivory hunter W.D.M. Bell and renowned professional hunter John “Pondoro” Taylor praised the rifle, particularly the 6.5×54 Mannlicher-Schönauer, for its outstanding accuracy and flawless reliability. Even Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway owned and hunted with a Mannlicher-Schönauer, later immortalizing the rifle in his writings. On dangerous and remote hunts, absolute dependability often mattered more than raw muzzle energy—and that was exactly where the Austrian design excelled. A Mannlicher-Schönauer carbine completely disassembled into its major components. A Bolt Action Unlike Any Other Anyone cycling a Mannlicher-Schönauer bolt for the first time immediately understands why it has achieved legendary status. The bolt glides through the receiver with almost no resistance. There is no binding, no scraping—only an incredibly smooth motion that feels more like the precision mechanism of a fine Swiss watch than a hunting rifle. For David Mischkulnig, this remains one of the rifle’s defining characteristics. “I’ve handled countless bolt-action rifles, but very few come close to the smoothness of a Mannlicher-Schönauer. Anyone who operates one immediately understands why it’s so revered.” That extraordinary smoothness comes from the precise interaction between the bolt, receiver, and magazine—all manufactured to remarkably tight tolerances long before CNC machining became standard. A Rotary Magazine: A Mechanical Masterpiece David demonstrates how the famous rotary magazine can be removed. At the heart of every Mannlicher-Schönauer lies its legendary rotary magazine. While nearly every modern bolt-action rifle feeds from a conventional box magazine, Otto Schönauer developed an entirely different concept more than a century ago. Inside the magazine, a precision-machined steel rotor positions every cartridge perfectly for feeding. The result is exceptionally smooth cartridge presentation, minimal bullet deformation, and virtually flawless reliability. The magazine can also be removed for cleaning or unloaded with remarkable ease — an incredibly advanced feature for its time. Even today, firearms historians consider it one of the finest magazine systems ever designed for a hunting rifle. Why Gunsmiths Still Admire the Mannlicher-Schönauer David Mischkulnig has worked as a professional gunsmith for more than twenty years. During that time, countless modern hunting rifles have passed through his workshop. Yet the Mannlicher-Schönauer continues to impress him. “We’ve probably only had to truly repair two of them in over two decades. That tells you everything about their quality.” Many owners still rely on these rifles for demanding hunts—including African safaris. Their robust construction, all-steel design, and exceptional craftsmanship allow many Mannlicher-Schönauers to function flawlessly well over a century after they were built. Classic Rifle, Modern Optics Many collectors assume that vintage sporting rifles must remain equipped with vintage optics. David disagrees. With properly installed swing mounts, many Mannlicher-Schönauers can be fitted with modern riflescopes while preserving their classic appearance. In his view, rifles of this quality deserve to remain in the field rather than becoming permanent safe queens. Buying a Mannlicher-Schönauer: What to Look For Interest in classic sporting rifles continues to grow, and the Mannlicher-Schönauer is no exception. Before purchasing one, David recommends checking several key points: Smooth, resistance-free bolt operation No cracks in the walnut stock A clean bore free of heavy corrosion Properly functioning set trigger Correct headspace No deeply machined dovetails cut into the receiver ring A valid proof mark—or the ability to successfully pass proof testing One of the most serious issues involves receivers that have been excessively machined to install scope mounts. Removing too much material may prevent the rifle from passing proof inspection. For that reason, David strongly recommends having any prospective purchase inspected by an experienced gunsmith or an official proof house. A Legend That Earned Its Reputation Some hunting rifles are lightweight. Some are innovative. Some are built for today’s market. Then there is the Mannlicher-Schönauer. It represents Austrian engineering at its finest—a time when rifles were crafted not for product cycles, but for generations of hunters. More than 120 years after its introduction, it continues to captivate sportsmen, collectors, and gunsmiths alike. As David Mischkulnig puts it: “You don’t simply buy a Mannlicher-Schönauer—you become the next caretaker of a piece of hunting history.”

Alpine ibex have become one of the defining symbols of the High Tauern National Park. For anyone hoping to see wild Alpine ibex in Austria, few places compare to the rugged peaks surrounding Grossglockner, the country’s highest mountain. Here, one of Austria’s most important ibex populations thrives among towering cliffs and alpine meadows. But while hikers and wildlife photographers admire these majestic animals from afar, hunters, wildlife biologists, and ibex wardens carry a year-round responsibility. The future of the “King of the Alps” is not determined during a handful of hunting days each season—it depends on continuous monitoring, scientific research, and an extraordinary level of cooperation that extends far beyond individual hunting districts and even state borders. Markus Lackner serves as Ibex Coordinator for the Carinthian Hunters Association and Managing Director of the Grossglockner-Heiligenblut Ibex Management Association. The Grossglockner-Heiligenblut Ibex Management Association has earned a reputation as one of Austria’s premier models for sustainable wildlife management. “In Carinthia, Alpine ibex are protected year-round—and we intend to keep it that way,” explains Markus Lackner, who also serves as district game manager and ibex specialist for the Carinthian Hunters Association, in an interview with Schuss & Stille. There is no regular hunting season for ibex in Carinthia. Instead, every two years the Carinthian Hunters Association applies for special permits from the provincial government, allowing only highly regulated population management measures. “This isn’t about trophies,” Lackner emphasizes. “Our goal is to prevent diseases—especially sarcoptic mange—while maintaining a healthy population structure and balanced age distribution.” When Mange Changed Everything The importance of this management strategy became painfully clear after the devastating mange outbreak that began in 2015. The disease ignored political boundaries, spreading from Salzburg into Carinthia, across to Tyrol, and back again. Because ibex regularly move between these regions, coordinated management became essential. On the Carinthian side alone, wildlife officials documented 67 ibex confirmed or presumed to have died from mange. The true number was almost certainly much higher. “Many animals disappear in extremely rugged terrain,” Lackner says. “We’ll never know the actual number.” Three Volunteer Wardens Watch the Mountains All Year To make scientifically sound management decisions, wildlife monitoring never stops in Heiligenblut. Three volunteer ibex wardens spend much of the year in the mountains, documenting herd movements, observing individual animals, and collecting detailed information on population structure, health, and seasonal migration. Together they complete roughly 340 field surveys every year within the Grossglockner-Heiligenblut management area alone. Their work is supported by wildlife biologists, scientific studies, and regular population counts. Only these combined data provide the basis for any request to remove individual animals under exceptional permits. For Lackner, this cooperative approach is the system’s greatest strength. “It can’t be that someone spots an ibex once and simply decides to harvest it.” Instead, every decision combines observations from wildlife wardens, scientific research, telemetry data, and population surveys. GPS Tracking Reveals Enormous Home Ranges Male Alpine ibex have repeatedly been fitted with GPS tracking collars to help researchers better understand their movements, habitat use, and behavior throughout the High Tauern Mountains. Wildlife researchers have repeatedly fitted ibex with GPS collars to better understand how they use the High Tauern landscape. One monitored male demonstrated just how extensive these movements can be. His documented home range covered approximately 14,000 hectares (34,600 acres)—clear evidence that ibex pay little attention to hunting boundaries. For that reason, Lackner says, successful management is only possible through cooperation among neighboring hunting areas. After years of losses caused by mange, encouraging signs are finally emerging. During the spring census on June 13, 2026, wildlife managers confirmed 25 newborn ibex kids, an important milestone for the recovering population. “Now we don’t want to slow that recovery again,” Lackner explains. Over the coming years, management will focus on protecting mature and older males in order to rebuild a more natural age structure. If population control becomes necessary, it will primarily involve old, non-lactating females or selected young animals. One rule, however, remains absolute. “A female raising a kid is never harvested here.” An ibex herd high above the Grossglockner High Alpine Road near Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe. Science Continues to Uncover New Challenges Population counts are only one part of the work. Whenever a diseased animal is confirmed, wildlife managers collect organ, skin, and tissue samples for laboratory analysis. Researchers are studying far more than mange alone. Recent investigations have identified parasites such as the red stomach worm as well as surprisingly high numbers of animals carrying lungworm larvae. The latest cross-border research produced striking results. In 2025, scientists analyzed samples from 15 ibex and 99 chamois. Approximately 57 percent of the ibex examined carried mange mites, while nearly 40 percent of the chamois tested positive. Although mites alone do not automatically trigger clinical mange, parasite infestations significantly weaken animals and can greatly increase the severity of disease outbreaks. Why Lead-Free Ammunition Became Standard The management association also changed its ammunition policy years ago. The decision followed the poisoning of the reintroduced bearded vulture “Glocknerlady,” which suffered lead poisoning after consuming tiny lead fragments left in the remains of harvested game. Since then, all regulated management harvests have been conducted exclusively with lead-free ammunition. “Terminal performance is excellent,” Lackner says. “For us, switching to lead-free bullets was absolutely the right decision.” He personally has relied on the Barnes LRX bullet for 25 years. Real Mountain Hunting, Not High-Tech Hunting Despite rapid advances in hunting technology, the Grossglockner-Heiligenblut team intentionally keeps things traditional. Thermal imaging plays only a minor role in ibex management. “We know our animals and we know where they live,” Lackner explains. “The most important tools are still quality binoculars and careful observation.” For him, that philosophy defines authentic alpine hunting. Anyone who wants to manage—or hunt—ibex successfully must bring physical fitness, patience, and a genuine passion for the mountains. A Blueprint for the Future? According to Lackner, the real success story isn’t hunting at all. It’s cooperation. Management associations make coordinated population counts, joint decision-making, and seamless wildlife monitoring possible across multiple hunting areas. For wide-ranging mountain species like Alpine ibex, he believes this collaborative approach represents the future. “The more intensively you study a wildlife species, the more you continue to learn. In the end, that knowledge provides the greatest benefit to the animals themselves,” says the veteran hunter. Around Grossglockner, that philosophy has become reality. Here, modern wildlife conservation and responsible hunting are no longer opposing ideas—they work hand in hand. That is precisely why the Grossglockner-Heiligenblut Ibex Management Association is widely regarded as one of the Alpine region’s leading examples of sustainable wildlife management.

The 7mm Backcountry has become one of the hottest topics in the American hunting world. (Photo: Federal) The 7mm Backcountry from Federal is arguably the most talked-about new hunting cartridge on the market today. But unlike many new releases that simply offer another variation of an existing caliber, the 7mm Backcountry was designed to solve a very specific problem. Modern hunters increasingly favor compact rifles equipped with suppressors. The challenge has always been balancing portability with ballistic performance. How do you achieve magnum-like velocity, a flat trajectory, and excellent terminal performance from a short, lightweight hunting rifle? Federal’s answer wasn’t a longer barrel or a bigger case. Instead, they reinvented the cartridge case itself. The Real Innovation Isn't the Bullet - It's the Case At first glance, the 7mm Backcountry looks like a conventional centerfire rifle cartridge. It features a .284-caliber bullet, a bottleneck case, and an overall length designed to fit standard long-action rifles. The real breakthrough, however, lies in what the case is made of. For more than a century, nearly every sporting rifle cartridge has relied on brass cases. Brass is durable, easy to manufacture, expands under pressure to seal the chamber, and springs back enough for reliable extraction. Federal chose a different path. Instead of brass, the company developed what it calls Peak Alloy™ Case Technology—a patented, one-piece steel-alloy cartridge case engineered to withstand substantially higher chamber pressures than conventional brass. That single design change forms the foundation of the entire 7mm Backcountry concept. Federal’s patented Peak Alloy case allows the 7mm Backcountry to operate at significantly higher chamber pressures than conventional brass cases. (Photo: Federal) Every time a rifle is fired, burning powder creates enormous pressure inside the chamber. That pressure pushes the bullet down the barrel. Generally speaking, the more pressure that can be safely contained, the more efficiently energy is transferred to the projectile, resulting in higher muzzle velocity. Brass has served hunters exceptionally well for generations, but it does have limits. Push chamber pressure too high and brass cases begin to stretch, deform, or suffer premature wear. Extreme pressure can also increase stress on the rifle itself. Federal’s Peak Alloy case was specifically engineered to overcome those limitations. According to SAAMI specifications, the 7mm Backcountry operates at a maximum average chamber pressure of 80,000 psi. For comparison: .308 Winchester: 62,000 psi 6.5 Creedmoor: 62,000 psi 7mm PRC: 65,000 psi .300 PRC: 65,000 psi That represents roughly 23 percent more chamber pressure than today’s most popular magnum hunting cartridges. Why 80,000 PSI Is Such a Big Deal Pressure figures alone don’t tell the whole story. What matters is what those higher pressures allow hunters to accomplish. Federal designed the 7mm Backcountry specifically for short-barreled hunting rifles. Traditionally, magnum cartridges require 24- to 26-inch barrels to reach their advertised velocities. Cut several inches off the barrel, and velocity begins to drop rapidly. The 7mm Backcountry changes that equation. Federal lists its 170-grain Terminal Ascent load at approximately 3,000 feet per second from a 20-inch barrel—performance previously associated with significantly longer magnum rifles. That is the cartridge’s central advantage. Instead of using extra barrel length to generate velocity, the 7mm Backcountry relies on higher operating pressure and modern case technology. The result is a compact rifle capable of delivering magnum-class external ballistics. Production of Federal’s 7mm Backcountry ammunition. (Photo: Federal) Why Short Barrels Are Becoming More Popular Just a decade ago, most serious big-game hunters accepted long barrels as the price of performance. Today, hunting rifles are changing. Suppressors have become increasingly common across much of the hunting world, adding several inches to the overall length of the firearm. A traditional 24-inch rifle fitted with a suppressor quickly becomes long, awkward, and cumbersome in tree stands, blinds, mountain terrain, vehicles, or dense timber. Short-barreled rifles solve many of those problems. The challenge has always been maintaining ballistic performance. That’s precisely where the 7mm Backcountry enters the picture. Designed around 16- to 20-inch barrels, it allows hunters to carry a compact rifle without sacrificing the velocity and downrange energy normally associated with larger magnum cartridges. Why 7mm? The 7mm (.284 caliber) has earned a legendary reputation among hunters for one simple reason—it offers one of the best balances between velocity, sectional density, ballistic efficiency, and manageable recoil. Compared to larger .30-caliber bullets, modern 7mm projectiles typically feature a higher ballistic coefficient (BC), allowing them to retain velocity more efficiently and resist wind drift over long distances. Simply put, they fly farther, flatter, and more efficiently. Federal designed the 7mm Backcountry around this proven bullet diameter while pairing it with a 1:8-inch twist rate. That fast twist stabilizes today’s long, aerodynamic hunting bullets, including heavy, high-BC projectiles that excel at extended ranges. For hunters, that translates into flatter trajectories, greater retained energy, and more consistent performance in crosswinds—particularly important during mountain hunts where wind conditions can change in seconds. Available Factory Loads A growing selection of 7mm Backcountry factory loads is already available in the United States. European hunters, however, will have to be patient, as the cartridge must first receive C.I.P. certification before it can achieve widespread adoption across Europe. Federal launched the cartridge with an impressive selection of factory ammunition, giving hunters several options depending on their game and hunting style. Current offerings include: 155-grain Terminal Ascent 170-grain Terminal Ascent 168-grain Barnes LRX 175-grain Fusion Tipped 195-grain Berger Elite Hunter Together, these loads cover nearly every big-game hunting scenario—from deer-sized animals to elk, moose, mountain game, and long-range applications. For hunters in Europe, the 168-grain Barnes LRX is particularly noteworthy because it is a lead-free monolithic bullet, making it compliant with lead-free hunting regulations in many regions. The heavier 170-grain Terminal Ascent is likely to appeal to hunters pursuing larger game such as red deer, moose, elk, or wild boar, where deep penetration and controlled expansion are critical. Meanwhile, the 195-grain Berger Elite Hunter pushes the cartridge firmly into the long-range category, offering exceptional ballistic efficiency for experienced marksmen. Which Rifles Are Chambered in 7mm Backcountry? One of the biggest surprises surrounding the 7mm Backcountry has been the speed with which rifle manufacturers embraced the cartridge. Rather than waiting years for adoption, several major American manufacturers announced rifles almost immediately after Federal introduced the new cartridge. Savage became one of Federal’s primary launch partners and quickly rolled out multiple rifles chambered in 7mm Backcountry, including: Model 110 Ultralite Model 110 Ultralite Elite Model 110 Timberline Model 110 Pro Pursuit Left-hand Model 110 variants These rifles target hunters looking for lightweight, practical hunting rifles rather than dedicated long-range competition platforms. Christensen Arms may have embraced the cartridge more aggressively than anyone else. Its Ridgeline FFT and Evoke series are both available in 7mm Backcountry. What makes these rifles especially interesting is their barrel length. Several models are offered with 16.25-inch and 20-inch barrels, perfectly matching the cartridge’s intended purpose. Unlike traditional magnum rifles, which often require long barrels to perform at their best, these rifles were designed from the ground up to remain compact—even with a suppressor installed. Weatherby also moved quickly, offering the cartridge in several rifles, including the Mark V lineup and the ultralight Backcountry Capra. Starting at roughly four pounds, the Backcountry Capra represents one of the lightest factory mountain rifles currently available. Pairing such a lightweight rifle with a cartridge optimized for short barrels creates an exceptionally portable hunting system. Industry reports have also linked the cartridge to several premium rifle builders, including: Fierce Firearms Horizon Firearms Gunwerks Proof Research Seekins Precision Ruger Geissele Whether all of these rifles eventually become widely available outside North America remains to be seen. What Does the 7mm Bckcountry Mean for European Hunters? For hunters in Europe, the answer is a bit more nuanced. The 7mm Backcountry is undeniably one of the most innovative hunting cartridges introduced in recent years—but innovation alone doesn’t guarantee widespread adoption. At least not yet. For most European hunters pursuing roe deer at typical distances of 80 to 150 meters (90–165 yards), established cartridges such as the .243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, 7x64 Brenneke, or .30-06 Springfield remain outstanding choices. They’re widely available, proven in the field, and supported by virtually every major rifle and ammunition manufacturer. The 7mm Backcountry isn’t trying to replace those classics. Instead, it fills a very specific niche. Where the 7mm Backcountry Fall Short Despite all its innovation, the 7mm Backcountry is not a miracle cartridge. Like every new design, it comes with trade-offs. Operating at 80,000 psi places extraordinary demands on both the rifle and the cartridge case. This is not a cartridge that belongs in modified actions or experimental conversions. Every component—from the action to the chamber and bolt—must be specifically engineered to handle those pressures safely. The cartridge should only be fired in rifles that were purpose-built for the 7mm Backcountry. While several American manufacturers already chamber rifles for the cartridge, availability in Europe remains uncertain. Hunters will ultimately judge the cartridge not by its specifications, but by practical questions: Can I buy ammunition locally? Will multiple manufacturers produce factory loads? Will replacement brass and components become available? Until those questions are answered, widespread adoption in Europe will likely remain limited. Innovation rarely comes cheaply. The Peak Alloy case, premium hunting bullets, and specialized manufacturing processes mean the 7mm Backcountry is expected to cost significantly more than traditional cartridges like the .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield. For hunters who shoot frequently, ammunition costs could become an important consideration. Handloaders should also approach the cartridge differently than conventional brass-cased ammunition. Federal has released official reloading data, but the company emphasizes that those loads were specifically developed for Peak Alloy cases. Traditional brass cases cannot simply be substituted. Because the cartridge operates at unusually high pressures, careful load development and strict adherence to published data are essential. Revolutionary or Just Another American Trend? The truth probably lies somewhere in between. Yes, there’s undoubtedly a tremendous amount of excitement surrounding the 7mm Backcountry. American shooters have always embraced innovation, and new cartridges often generate significant attention. But unlike many past introductions, the 7mm Backcountry represents more than a simple necked-up or necked-down case. Federal fundamentally reimagined one of the cartridge’s most important components—the case itself. That alone makes it one of the most technically significant hunting cartridge developments in decades. Whether it ultimately becomes a mainstream success will depend on several factors: broader rifle availability, factory ammunition support, C.I.P. standardization in Europe, long-term reliability, and, ultimately, hunter confidence. For now, the 7mm Backcountry is best viewed as a specialized cartridge for hunters who prioritize lightweight rifles, suppressor compatibility, and long-range capability. Will it replace the .308 Winchester? Almost certainly not. Will it replace the 7x64 Brenneke across Europe? Probably not. But it doesn’t have to. The 7mm Backcountry isn’t trying to reinvent hunting. It’s trying to redefine what a short-barreled hunting rifle is capable of. And that may prove to be its greatest achievement.

Austria’s hunters are a powerful driver of the nation’s economy. More and more people are purchasing hunting licenses in Austria every year. But the true value of hunting goes far beyond rising participation numbers. Behind every hunting lease, elevated stand, and wildlife food plot lies an economic powerhouse that creates jobs, supports rural communities, and contributes hundreds of millions of euros annually to Austria’s economy. When most people think of hunting, they picture an early-morning deer stand, the roar of a red stag during the rut, or a quiet stalk through the mountains. Few associate hunting with economic output, tax revenue, or employment. Yet today, hunting has become one of the most important economic sectors in Austria’s rural regions. From rifles and thermal optics to off-road vehicles, habitat management, and building hunting blinds, nearly every euro invested by hunters flows back into local businesses. Hunting is far more than a pastime—it is a significant economic engine. Nearly €800 Million in Economic Impact A landmark study by Austrian economist Prof. Friedrich Schneider was among the first to quantify hunting’s contribution to the national economy. According to his research, hunting generates approximately €731 million in annual gross value added. With increasing investments, rising equipment costs, and a growing hunting community, the overall economic impact of hunting is now estimated at nearly €800 million per year. In addition, hunting contributes roughly €126 million annually in direct taxes and social security contributions, while another €146 million in indirect taxes flows into public budgets. Measured against Austria’s overall Gross Domestic Product, this share may appear modest. However, considering that this economic output is generated by only a small percentage of the population, its importance becomes much more significant. More Hunters Than Ever Before The latest figures from Statistics Austria confirm that hunting continues to grow in popularity. During the 2024/25 hunting season, approximately 139,600 annual hunting licenses were issued nationwide. An additional 11,500 guest hunting permits were also granted, setting yet another all-time record. In just four years, the number of annual hunting licenses has increased by nearly 10,000, representing growth of approximately 7.5 percent. The trend reflects a growing enthusiasm for hunting, conservation, and sustainable wildlife management across Austria. Hunters Invest Well Above Average Austria’s hunters invest nearly €800 million every year in hunting-related activities, including the purchase of modern hunting rifles and equipment. Hunting ranks among the country’s most expensive outdoor pursuits. Schneider’s original study estimated annual hunting expenditures at approximately €575 million. Since then, prices for firearms, premium optics, thermal imaging devices, ammunition, hunting apparel, and off-road vehicles have risen substantially. Whether it’s cutting-edge thermal clip-on systems, suppressors, premium riflescopes, or specialized hunting vehicles, hunters continuously invest in high-quality equipment. These investments support a wide range of businesses—from gunsmiths and firearm retailers to optics manufacturers, forestry companies, hunting outfitters, and skilled local craftsmen. Habitat management represents another major area of investment. Hunters establish food plots, build elevated stands, maintain forest roads, and improve wildlife habitat. Much of this work is contracted to local businesses or carried out alongside regional tradespeople, creating additional economic value within rural communities. Millions of Hours of Volunteer Conservation Work One of hunting’s most overlooked contributions is the tremendous amount of volunteer labor provided by Austria’s hunting community. Hunters dedicate countless hours to wildlife population surveys, habitat restoration, tracking wounded game, preventing wildlife damage, predator management, and caring for native wildlife populations. Current estimates indicate that Austrian hunters contribute approximately 10.6 million hours of volunteer work every year. The economic value of these unpaid services is estimated at roughly €240 million annually. Without this commitment, many of these essential conservation tasks would have to be funded or carried out by public agencies. Rural Austria Benefits the Most Few industries are as closely connected to rural communities as hunting. From small gunsmith shops and forestry contractors to hotels, restaurants, and hunting tourism, numerous businesses benefit directly or indirectly from hunting. Current estimates suggest that hunting supports approximately 5,900 jobs across Austria. Especially in economically weaker rural regions, hunting generates valuable income that remains within local communities and is reinvested in regional businesses. More Than Just Numbers While hunting’s economic contribution can be measured in millions of euros, its true value reaches much further. Hunters conserve wildlife habitat, invest in protecting native species, contribute millions of volunteer hours, and ensure that sustainable wildlife management remains possible for future generations. The rising number of hunting licenses is therefore more than a statistic—it reflects a growing willingness among people to take responsibility for wildlife, natural resources, and the cultural landscape. Hunting is far more than tradition or recreation. It is an essential pillar of rural Austria and an economic force whose importance is expected to continue growing in the years ahead. Hunting in Austria - Key Figures (2024/25) 139,600 annual hunting licenses 11,500 guest hunting permits Nearly €800 million in annual economic impact €731 million in gross value added (Schneider Study) €126 million in direct taxes and social security contributions €146 million in indirect taxes 10.6 million volunteer hours each year €240 million estimated value of volunteer conservation work Approximately 5,900 jobs supported by the hunting sector Sources: Statistics Austria (Hunting Statistics 2024/25), Hunting Austria (Jagd Österreich), Study by Prof. Friedrich Schneider.

As the rut approaches, mature roe bucks become masters of staying out of sight. For weeks, the buck had followed the same routine. Almost every evening, at nearly the exact same time, he stepped out of the timber, eased along a hedgerow, fed in the meadow, and slipped back into cover before darkness settled in. Trail cameras confirmed the pattern night after night. Then, without warning, he was gone. One evening. Two. An entire week. No sightings. No trail camera photos. No sign. Many hunters assume the buck has moved into a neighboring territory or has already been harvested. In reality, neither is usually the case. July marks one of the most fascinating periods in the annual cycle of roe deer—a time when their behavior, daily activity, and use of the landscape change dramatically. July Changes Everything While June is dominated by fawning season and relative calm, mature roe bucks are already preparing for the upcoming rut. Testosterone levels begin to rise, territorial instincts intensify, and bucks spend more time patrolling and defending their home ranges. Wildlife biologists have long observed that bucks increase scent-marking activity during this period. They rub young saplings with their antlers, leave scent from forehead and glandular secretions, and revisit territorial boundaries more frequently. At the same time, their predictable movement patterns begin to disappear. The buck hasn’t vanished. He’s simply behaving differently. Most Bucks Never Leave Their Territory Long-term telemetry studies conducted by Scandinavian wildlife researchers have revealed something remarkable: roe bucks are among the most site-faithful big game animals in Europe. Many occupy virtually the same summer territory for years, repeatedly using the same core areas season after season. What changes is not the territory itself—but how the buck uses it. GPS tracking has shown that bucks shift between several bedding and resting areas depending on weather conditions, food availability, disturbance, and competition from neighboring bucks. To a hunter, that can make it seem as though the animal has disappeared completely, when in reality it may only be a few hundred yards away. Summer Heat Makes Deer Invisible On hot summer days, roe bucks often don’t emerge until well after sunset. Weather also plays a major role. Extended periods of high temperatures push roe deer into a largely nocturnal routine. During daylight hours, bucks seek out cool, shaded cover in dense young forests, blackberry thickets, or thick understory where temperatures and humidity remain lower. The open meadows where they fed regularly in May can suddenly appear empty. Many bucks now step into the open long after sunset—or not until full darkness. To the hunter, it feels like the deer have vanished. In reality, they’ve simply adapted their daily schedule to survive the summer heat. Human Pressure Changes Their Routine Another important factor is often overlooked. In many hunting areas, July brings the highest level of human activity of the entire year. Hikers, mountain bikers, dog walkers, berry pickers, and forestry operations create constant daytime disturbance. Recent wildlife research has shown that roe deer respond to repeated human activity by shifting even more of their movement into nighttime hours. This reduces encounters with people while conserving valuable energy. For hunters, however, it means far fewer daylight sightings—even though the local deer population hasn’t changed. Preparing for the Rut As the rut draws closer, bucks become increasingly focused on defending their territories. Fresh antler rubs begin appearing on young trees. New scrapes and scent-marking sites emerge as bucks advertise ownership and warn rivals to stay away. Many of these patrols take place along woodland edges, hedgerows, and narrow travel corridors that hunters rarely watch during daylight. Feeding becomes less important. Protecting territory becomes the priority. How Hunters Should Adapt Success during July depends less on luck than on observation. Many hunters make the mistake of abandoning a stand after only a few unsuccessful evenings, convinced that the buck has left the property. More often than not, that’s exactly the wrong conclusion. Instead, it’s time to read the woods again.Fresh rubs, newly established territorial scrapes, heavily used trails, and subtle sign often reveal far more than a trail camera alone. Adjusting hunting times can also make a significant difference. Bucks that appeared early in June frequently don’t emerge until much later in the evening as July progresses. Cooler temperatures following thunderstorms or sudden weather changes often trigger noticeably earlier movement. Equally important is reducing your own impact. Constantly checking trail cameras, driving through the property, or repeatedly disturbing bedding areas often pushes mature bucks even deeper into cover. Sometimes the best hunting strategy is surprisingly simple: Do less. The Buck was Never Really Gone Everything changes once the rut begins. The predictable movement patterns disappear completely as bucks begin following receptive does across their territories—and sometimes far beyond them. They abandon familiar travel routes and may suddenly appear in broad daylight where they hadn’t been seen for weeks. The buck that seemed to have vanished overnight is suddenly standing in the very same meadow again. Not because he came back. Because his priorities changed. Perhaps that’s one of the greatest lessons July has to offer. Experienced hunters don’t chase deer during this time of year. They learn to understand them. And anyone who spends enough quiet evenings watching the summer woods eventually realizes something important: The roe buck never truly disappeared. Only our expectations of where—and when—we would find him did.

More and more hunters are discovering the versatility of the .300 Blackout. From Special Operations to the Deer Woods – What the .300 Blackout Really Brings to the Hunt Some hunters have trusted the .308 Winchester or .30-06 Springfield for generations. Others are embracing modern long-range performers like the 6.5 Creedmoor or .300 PRC. Then there’s the .300 AAC Blackout—a cartridge originally designed for military special operations that has steadily earned its place in hunting camps across Europe and beyond. Few rifle cartridges have gained popularity as quickly over the past decade. Hunters who run suppressors or spend long nights pursuing wild boar and predators are increasingly discovering what this compact yet remarkably versatile cartridge has to offer. But is the .300 Blackout truly a game changer, or is it simply another passing trend? For Shot & Stillness, firearms expert David Mischkulnig of Alpen Adria Jagd in Villach, Austria, put the Ruger American Ranch chambered in .300 Blackout through an extensive field test and explains why it has become one of his favorite hunting setups. A Cartridge Born for Special Operations Unlike many classic hunting cartridges, the .300 Blackout didn’t originate in the sporting world. In 2009, Advanced Armament Corporation (AAC) and Remington Defense developed the cartridge specifically for U.S. military special operations. Their objectives were clear: Maximum performance from short-barreled rifles Seamless function in AR-15 platforms The ability to switch effortlessly between supersonic and subsonic ammunition Compatibility with existing AR magazines and bolt assemblies Its greatest innovation lies in its design. The .300 Blackout is based on the 5.56 NATO/.223 Remington case, shortened and necked up to accept a .30-caliber bullet. As a result, most AR-15 rifles require only a barrel swap, while the bolt and magazines remain unchanged. Smaller Case, Much Heavier Bullet This is where the .300 Blackout truly separates itself from the .223 Remington. While a typical .223 fires bullets weighing between 55 and 77 grains, the .300 Blackout launches significantly heavier projectiles. Common hunting loads include: 110-grain Hornady V-MAX 125-grain hunting bullets 150-grain soft points 190- to 220-grain subsonic loads David Mischkulnig explains: “Compared to the .223, the biggest advantage is obvious. I can shoot subsonic ammunition while still delivering meaningful energy because I’m using a much heavier .30-caliber bullet.” That additional bullet weight allows the cartridge to retain surprising momentum—even below the speed of sound. Cartridge comparison (left to right): 7×57 Mauser, .308 Winchester, .243 Winchester, and the compact .300 AAC Blackout. Built for Short Barrels Modern hunting rifles continue getting shorter, largely because suppressors add considerable overall length. That’s exactly the environment the .300 Blackout was designed for. Unlike cartridges such as the .308 Winchester, which lose noticeable performance in shorter barrels, the .300 Blackout burns its powder efficiently in barrels as short as 9 to 16 inches. Mischkulnig agrees. “A 16-inch (40 cm) barrel is more than enough for the .300 Blackout. One hundred meters are absolutely no problem, and many of our customers confidently shoot out to 150 meters.” Supersonic or Subsonic? Two Personalities in One Cartridge Very few rifle cartridges offer such dramatically different applications. Supersonic Loads Using lighter bullets between 110 and 125 grains, supersonic .300 Blackout loads typically produce velocities between 650 and over 700 meters per second. These loads are ideal for: Roe deer Predators Wild boar at moderate distances Their relatively flat trajectory allows ethical and accurate hunting shots out to roughly 150 meters. Subsonic Loads Subsonic ammunition is where the .300 Blackout truly stands apart. These loads typically use 190- to 220-grain bullets traveling below the speed of sound—approximately 343 m/s (1,125 fps). The result? No supersonic crack. Combined with a quality suppressor, the rifle becomes astonishingly quiet. Mischkulnig describes the experience: “With a good suppressor, you sometimes have to check whether the rifle actually fired. The sound of the bullet striking the target is often louder than the shot itself.” The Biggest Misconception About the .300 Blackout Many hunters automatically assume that quiet means weak. In reality, the opposite is often true. A 190-grain subsonic bullet still carries considerable momentum thanks to its weight. However, it also produces a much more pronounced bullet drop than supersonic ammunition. During range testing, Mischkulnig observed that his subsonic load impacted approximately 12 centimeters (nearly five inches) lower at 50 meters than his rifle’s 110-grain V-MAX zero. His advice is straightforward: “You have to understand the cartridge. Subsonic isn’t just a quieter version of the same load—its ballistics and point of impact are completely different.” Why Twist Rate Matters Heavy bullets require fast rifling. That’s why many .300 Blackout rifles—including the tested Ruger American Ranch—feature a 1:7 twist rate. This twist stabilizes both lightweight hunting bullets and heavy subsonic projectiles, making it one of the most versatile barrel configurations available. As Mischkulnig explains: “The 1:7 twist is exactly what allows those heavy subsonic bullets to stabilize properly.” Where the .300 Blackout Excels The .300 Blackout is not intended as a long-range cartridge. Instead, it’s a specialist. Its strengths become obvious during: Spot-and-stalk hunting Wild boar hunting Predator control Tracking wounded game Driven hunts Suppressor-equipped hunting rifles Dense forests are where the cartridge truly shines, especially during the hot summer months when deer spend most of the day under heavy cover. A lightweight rifle with a compact suppressor and .300 Blackout chambering is exceptionally fast, maneuverable, and easy to carry. A Growing Selection of Hunting Ammunition Not long ago, the .300 Blackout was considered a niche cartridge. Today, virtually every major ammunition manufacturer offers dedicated hunting loads. Among them are: Hornady, Sellier & Bellot, Fiocchi, Remington and Winchester. Both supersonic and subsonic offerings continue expanding, reflecting the cartridge’s growing popularity among hunters worldwide. Know Its Limits No cartridge is perfect. The .300 Blackout is not a replacement for the .308 Winchester, particularly at longer distances. Beyond roughly 50 meters with heavy subsonic ammunition, bullet drop becomes significant and must be carefully accounted for. Hunters should also verify that their chosen load meets local legal minimum energy requirements for the game species they pursue. Another critical safety consideration involves ammunition compatibility. Because the .300 Blackout shares the same parent case dimensions as the .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, cartridges and magazines can appear deceptively similar. A .300 Blackout cartridge must never be chambered in a rifle designed for .223 Remington or 5.56 NATO, as doing so can cause catastrophic firearm failure. The .300 Blackout isn’t trying to replace America’s classic hunting cartridges. Instead, it fills a role that few others can. It combines excellent short-barrel efficiency, outstanding suppressor performance, and the flexibility of both supersonic and subsonic ammunition—all in one remarkably compact package. David Mischkulnig sums it up perfectly: “For specialized hunting applications, the .300 Blackout is an outstanding tool. You simply need to understand what it does well—and what it doesn’t.” And perhaps that’s the cartridge’s greatest strength. It isn’t the fastest. It isn’t the flattest shooting. But it may well be one of the most versatile hunting cartridges introduced in recent decades.

Firearms expert David Mischkulnig from Alpen Adria Jagd in Villach took a close look at the all-new Steyr RMS Wild. Nearly 130 years after Steyr made military history with the legendary Mannlicher M95—the world’s first straight-pull rifle, famously nicknamed the “Straight-Pull Lightning Rifle” for its rapid cycling action—the Austrian manufacturer is back with a modern hunting rifle built around the same principle. The expectations are high. After all, the Steyr name has been synonymous with precision, innovation, and Austrian gunmaking excellence for generations. But can the new RMS Wild compete with today’s established straight-pull hunting rifles? For Shot & Stillness, firearms expert David Mischkulnig of Alpen Adria Jagd in Villach put the new rifle through its paces—from the stock and action to real-world range testing. First Impressions: Pure Steyr The stock feels rugged, practical, and purpose-built for serious hunting. From the moment you pick it up, one thing becomes clear: the RMS Wild isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. Instead, it builds upon Steyr’s proven strengths while introducing a modern straight-pull action designed for today’s hunters. The glass-fiber reinforced synthetic stock feels rugged, practical, and well thought out. Its lines resemble the popular SM12 series but with a more modern and dynamic appearance. Available in both green and brown, the rifle immediately leaves the impression of a premium hunting tool. David was particularly impressed by the ergonomics: “The rifle feels incredibly comfortable in the hands. The steep pistol grip naturally puts your shooting hand exactly where it needs to be.” At approximately 7 pounds (3.2 kg), the RMS Wild is also among the lighter rifles in its category. Built for Real-World Hunting Steyr packed the RMS Wild with features typically found on rifles costing significantly more. The stock length can be adjusted without tools using a spacer system, while the adjustable comb features a clever memory function that automatically returns to the previously selected position. Modern QD sling swivel sockets come standard. “It sounds like a small detail,” David explains, “but in the field it makes a huge difference.” Especially during long stalks or mountain hunts, those practical touches quickly become appreciated. Safety Comes First Safety remains one of the most important aspects of any modern hunting rifle. The RMS Wild introduces a newly developed two-position safety that directly blocks the firing pin, improving upon earlier Steyr systems. The rifle also features a separate bolt-release button, allowing hunters to safely unload the rifle while it remains on safe. Another safety feature is hidden inside the action itself. The three locking lugs engage directly into the barrel extension, and the firing pin is only released once the bolt is completely locked. “The overall safety philosophy reminds me of some of the best straight-pull rifles currently on the market,” David says. The Straight-Pull Action The Smoothest Straight-Pull Action We’ve Ever Tested Let’s be honest—everything about the RMS Wild revolves around its new straight-pull bolt system. And this is where the rifle truly shines. The action cycles with remarkable smoothness. After only a few repetitions, it already feels like a rifle you’ve owned for years. “This is probably the smoothest straight-pull action I’ve ever shot,” David says. Cycling the bolt requires very little effort, yet the system still feels solid, precise, and confidence-inspiring. Contrary to what many social media videos suggest, speed alone is not the rifle’s biggest selling point. “Hunters won’t buy the RMS Wild just because it’s a straight-pull rifle,” David says. “They’ll buy it because it’s a Steyr.” Monobloc Design Delivers Precision Like several other Steyr rifles, the RMS Wild utilizes the company’s proven Monobloc design. Barrel and receiver form a highly precise, rigid unit that minimizes tolerances and promotes consistent accuracy. The rifle comes standard with a Picatinny rail and an M15x1 muzzle thread. There is one detail David misses, however. “The famous Steyr hammer-forged barrel pattern is gone. That’s a shame because you could always recognize a Steyr from a distance by that distinctive look.” Range Performance For the range test, the RMS Wild was equipped with an Alpen Optics Apex XP 2.5-16x42 riflescope and an A-TEC H3 suppressor. Ammunition consisted of the new ODIN .308 Winchester hunting load. The results were impressive from the very first shots. The RMS Wild immediately produced tight groups and showed excellent consistency. “The accuracy is impressive,” David says. Even during faster shooting sequences, point of impact remained stable while the action continued to operate flawlessly. A Few Minor Criticisms No rifle is perfect. David would have preferred an aluminum trigger instead of the polymer version currently fitted to the rifle. The same applies to the magazine floorplate and trigger guard. “These are small details,” he says. “Functionally they work perfectly, but aluminum components would add an even greater sense of quality.” Fortunately, aftermarket upgrades will likely address those concerns in the near future. A Strong Statement from Austria With the RMS Wild, Steyr Arms has made an impressive entry into the modern straight-pull rifle market. The rifle successfully combines Austrian hunting tradition, modern engineering, outstanding safety, and excellent accuracy. Its exceptionally smooth action, thoughtful ergonomics, and proven field performance make it a serious competitor to rifles costing considerably more. Hunters looking for a modern straight-pull rifle while supporting Austrian craftsmanship should take a very close look at the RMS Wild. As David sums it up: “Steyr got a lot of things right here. The RMS Wild is light, accurate, safe, and simply fun to shoot. For me, it’s one of the most exciting new hunting rifles of the year.”

The signing of the agreement between the Austrian Wildlife Foundation and Unidata marked a major milestone for the future Austrian Wildlife Database. Pictured from left to right: Max Mayr-Melnhof, Chairman of the Austrian Wildlife Foundation and Salzburg State Hunting Director; Felix Kroismayr, Unidata Forestry and Hunting Information Systems; Nikolaus Pedarnig, Unidata Management; and Herbert Sieghartsleitner, Board Member of the Austrian Wildlife Foundation and Upper Austria State Hunting Director. Photo: Jagd Österreich What does the future of hunting look like in Austria? That question brought together some of the country’s leading hunting officials, wildlife scientists, digitalization experts, and conservation partners in Salzburg this spring. During the annual State Hunting Directors Conference and the subsequent Spring Delegates Conference organized by Jagd Österreich, participants explored the challenges and opportunities that will shape hunting in the years ahead. The agenda extended far beyond traditional hunting topics. Wildlife monitoring, scientific research, digital technologies, public outreach, and cooperation with other outdoor user groups dominated the discussions. Date Is Becoming Hunting's Most Important Tool The days when wildlife management decisions relied solely on experience and observation are long gone. Modern hunting increasingly depends on reliable data—and that is precisely where Austria’s new Wildlife Database comes into play. One of the conference’s most significant moments was the signing of a partnership agreement between the Austrian Wildlife Foundation and Unidata Geodesign GmbH, which will oversee the technical implementation of the nationwide project. The concept is both simple and groundbreaking: wildlife data collected throughout Austria will be systematically recorded, scientifically analyzed, and made available for wildlife management and conservation planning. Throughout the conference, one message was clear: Those who want to shape the future of hunting need solid facts to build upon. Coordination with all Austrian states is already underway. Existing databases are being evaluated and linked together, while a modern mapping platform is being developed to document the distribution of priority wildlife species across the country. For Austria’s hunting community, the project represents a major leap forward. As public debates surrounding wildlife, conservation, predators, and habitat management continue to grow, reliable data has never been more important. Wildlife Monitoring: The Foundation of Credibility Wildlife monitoring emerged as one of the conference’s central themes. The information collected by hunters today goes far beyond harvest reports and population estimates. These datasets form the basis for scientific studies, management decisions, and policy discussions concerning wildlife and habitat conservation. The importance of monitoring becomes especially apparent when dealing with controversial issues such as wolves, wildlife diseases, and the impacts of climate change. Austria’s hunters possess a wildlife data resource unlike almost any other in Europe. The challenge now is turning that wealth of information into an even more effective management tool. A New Hunting Director Joins the Team The conference also provided an opportunity to officially welcome Manfred Vonbank, who recently assumed the position of State Hunting Director of Vorarlberg. As a symbol of unity within Austria’s hunting community, Jagd Österreich President Anton Larcher presented Vonbank with the traditional Jagd Österreich jacket. The gesture reflected something that remains a defining characteristic of Austrian hunting: strong cooperation across regional boundaries. Digitaler Revierabend. Foto: Jagd Österreich Digital Habitat Assessment: Measuring a Hunting Area Objectively One of the most innovative presentations came from Dominik Dachs of Upper Austria’s “Alliance for Small Game” initiative. His team introduced a new digital habitat assessment platform designed to evaluate hunting areas using objective environmental criteria. What habitat structures exist within a hunting district? Where are weaknesses found? Which improvements could benefit small game populations? Rather than relying solely on personal impressions, hunters can increasingly use measurable data to answer these questions. The goal is straightforward: better habitat understanding leads to better habitat management. For small-game managers in particular, the new tool could become an invaluable asset. Hunting Needs Visibility Wolfgang Holzinger highlighted another important challenge facing modern hunting: public perception. Presenting the media platform 4ONE.TV, he emphasized the growing importance of video, documentary, and digital storytelling formats. Many members of the public remain unaware of the wide range of responsibilities hunters fulfill today—from wildlife monitoring and habitat enhancement to disease surveillance and conservation work. Modern media offers an opportunity to communicate these efforts more effectively and transparently than ever before. When Hunters and Paragliders Sit at the Same Table One of the conference’s most intriguing discussions focused on the relationship between hunting and outdoor recreation. Johannes M. Damisch of the Austrian Aero Club presented the Hike & Fly Initiative, which aims to improve communication between hunters and paragliding enthusiasts. The principle behind the initiative is simple: Most conflicts arise when people lack information. Future pilots will receive education about wildlife sanctuaries, sensitive habitats, and seasonal protection periods as part of their training. At the same time, direct communication channels between hunters and pilots will help address potential conflicts before they become problems. The initiative demonstrates that effective conservation often begins when different user groups talk with one another instead of about one another. Research for the Future of Wildlife Management A glimpse into the future of wildlife research came from FIWI Director Prof. Dr. Claudia Bieber. Through a new research grant program established by the Research Institute of Wildlife Ecology (FIWI), scientists are being supported in projects that provide valuable insights for wildlife conservation and management. Three research projects received funding: One investigates the social structures and survival strategies of gray partridges in agricultural landscapes. Another examines cross-border movements, health, and genetics of red deer populations. A third focuses on wildlife health, disease ecology, zoonotic diseases, and the effects of environmental change on wild animal populations. At the same time, FIWI’s research infrastructure continues to expand. A new state-of-the-art facility is currently under construction at the institute’s Wilhelminenberg campus in Vienna. The complex will include modern laboratories, genetics facilities, wildlife research units, and specialized experimental spaces. Completion is scheduled for 2028. Delegates Conference 2026 in Salzburg. Photo: Jagd Österreich The Future Will be Data-Driven The 2026 State Hunting Directors Conference made one thing abundantly clear: Hunting in Austria faces significant challenges—but also tremendous opportunities. Whether through the Wildlife Database, scientific research, digital habitat assessment, or new forms of public communication, hunting continues to evolve. Yet one principle remains unchanged. Responsible stewardship of wildlife and wildlife habitat remains at the heart of everything. The tools may change. The responsibility does not. And for that reason, Salzburg may one day be remembered as the place where important foundations were laid for the future of hunting in Austria.

A roe doe and her fawn photographed along a roadside. Why Hunters Trade Their Rifles for Binoculars. June is not a month for hunting—at least not the kind of hunting most people imagine. While autumn echoes with the crack of a rifle across the valleys and winter reveals tracks etched into fresh snow, June brings a different side of the hunting tradition. A quieter one. A more observant one. One that demands patience. These days, anyone walking through fields and forests at first light is often carrying no firearm at all. Instead, a pair of binoculars hangs ready across their chest. Because June is the season when nature opens the doors to its nursery. New life is everywhere. Where bare meadows stretched only weeks ago, tiny fawns now lie motionless in the tall grass. In the shadows of old spruce forests, red deer calves stay close to their mothers. Fox pups wrestle and play around their dens. Young hares sit among wildflowers while hawks circle high above. For many hunters, these are the most beautiful weeks of the year. Not because game is harvested. But because they become witnesses. The Miracle Hidden in the Grass It is a sight that never fails to move even the most experienced hunter. A roe deer fawn, barely larger than a house cat, lies curled up among the blades of a meadow. The white spots on its back look as though sunlight itself has been painted onto its coat. Spotting one requires a second glance. That is precisely the youngster’s survival strategy. During its first weeks of life, a fawn spends most of its time alone. The doe returns only to nurse it and otherwise stays away to avoid drawing predators to its hiding place. Instead of fleeing, the fawn relies on its natural camouflage. It presses itself deep into the grass and remains perfectly still. To hikers and passersby, it often appears abandoned. But nothing could be further from the truth. The mother is usually watching every movement from a safe distance. For hunters, this is also one of the most important times of the year. Together with farmers, they search meadows before mowing begins. Thermal drones fly over fields in the early morning hours. Volunteers comb through the grass looking for hidden young animals. Every rescued fawn is a small victory. And every year, thousands of young animals are saved from being killed by mowing equipment. A roe doe and her two fawns captured on a trail camera. The First Steps of Red Deer Calves While roe deer often live close to human settlements, the family life of red deer usually unfolds far from sight. Yet anyone scanning a sunny mountainside with binoculars at dawn still has a chance. Suddenly, they appear. Red deer calves with their light summer coats, still a bit uncertain on their long legs, standing close beside their mothers. For the first weeks of life, they remain hidden in thick cover. But as their confidence grows, so does their curiosity. They jump. They run. They stumble. They learn. Every rock becomes something to investigate. Every creek becomes a challenge. Every hillside becomes the first mountain adventure of their lives. To the observer, it often looks playful. In reality, it is the beginning of survival school. The Wild Has Young Ones Young fox pups guarded by the vixen outside the den. The predators are busy as well. Around many fox dens, the woods suddenly come alive with activity. Places that seemed deserted for most of the year now buzz with movement. The pups are venturing outside for the first time. They wrestle with one another, chase butterflies, and disappear underground in an instant whenever danger approaches. Anyone patient enough to remain still can witness scenes that look remarkably similar to puppies at play. But the idyllic picture is deceptive. Soon these young foxes must learn to find food on their own. The wild offers no kindergarten and no second chances. Perhaps that is why these carefree moments seem so precious. The Quiet Hours of a Hunter Many people associate hunting solely with harvesting game. But anyone accompanying a hunter in June will experience something entirely different. You sit in a stand and watch. You listen to the call of a cuckoo. You follow a doe through your binoculars as she leads her fawn across a forest opening for the very first time. You spot the year’s first young badger. You watch a fox carrying mice back to its pups. Entire evenings often pass without a single shot being fired. Yet hunters return home with unforgettable memories. Perhaps even richer than those from many successful days in the fall. Because the true fascination of hunting begins long before the trigger is pulled. It begins with understanding. A red deer hind with her calf photographed by a trail camera. Responsibility Over Trophies June reminds hunters why they carry responsibility for wildlife in the first place. This is the time when mineral licks are checked, habitat conditions are monitored, water sources are inspected, and wildlife cover is maintained. Now it becomes clear whether local populations are healthy and whether this year’s young are thriving. Every fawn, every calf, and every fox pup tells a story about the condition of the land. About harsh winters. About gentle springs. About food, cover, and security. Hunters who pay attention can see early signs of how wildlife populations are developing and what challenges may lie ahead. And perhaps that is the greatest lesson June has to offer: Sometimes the most rewarding days in the field are not measured by what is taken—but by what is observed.

Nearly 700 hunters gathered in the Möll Valley for the 77th Carinthian Hunters’ Convention. (Photo: Carinthian Hunting Association) When hunters from across Carinthia come together, the conversation is no longer limited to harvest quotas, hunting traditions, or organizational matters. Instead, it centers on some of the most pressing questions facing wildlife management today: How do we coexist with the return of large predators? How do we protect alpine grazing lands and livestock? What role does hunting play in landscapes increasingly shaped by climate change, natural disasters, and shifting public expectations? Those questions took center stage at the 77th Annual Convention of the Carinthian Hunting Association, held on June 20 in Mühldorf, Austria. Around 270 delegates and officials gathered to help shape the future of hunting in one of Europe’s most game-rich alpine regions. Hunting Is Becoming More Complex Carinthia’s Chief Huntsman Walter Brunner (Photo: Carinthian Hunting Association) The days when hunters focused solely on game management and harvesting wildlife are long gone. Today, Carinthia’s hunters are involved in a wide range of responsibilities that extend far beyond traditional hunting. Wildlife monitoring, disease surveillance, habitat conservation, crop and forest damage prevention, and predator management have become part of everyday life in the field. Carinthian Chief Huntsman Dr. Walter Brunner emphasized just how dramatically conditions have changed in recent years. “Wolves, golden jackals, and natural disasters are fundamentally changing our hunting grounds. The challenge is preserving our traditions while adapting to a new reality,” Brunner said. And that reality is becoming increasingly apparent. As wolf and golden jackal populations continue to expand across the Alps, farmers and livestock producers face mounting challenges. At the same time, storms, bark beetle infestations, and extreme weather events are reshaping forests and the habitats that support native wildlife. Wolf Management Takes Center Stage Few topics currently generate more discussion among Carinthia’s hunters than the return of the wolf. Experience from recent years has shown that maintaining alpine livestock grazing without an effective wolf management strategy is becoming increasingly difficult. Martin Gruber, Deputy Governor of Carinthia and the state’s hunting representative, highlighted the critical role hunters play in the process. “Only through the responsible cooperation of our hunters can wolf management regulations and livestock protection laws fulfill their intended purpose,” Gruber said. Hunters serve as the backbone of the monitoring effort. They document sightings, collect genetic samples, assist authorities in evaluating livestock depredation cases, and provide crucial field data used in management decisions. Without that information, targeted and science-based management would be nearly impossible. The Invisible Work Behind the Scenes Hunting Heritage and Tradition (Photo: Carinthian Hunting Association) While predator management often attracts headlines, much of the hunting community’s most important work happens quietly in the background. Carinthia’s hunters operate extensive wildlife monitoring programs, tracking population trends, documenting diseases, and gathering valuable data for researchers and wildlife managers. As public debates surrounding wildlife continue to grow, science-based information has never been more important. These monitoring efforts provide the foundation for wildlife management decisions and allow authorities to identify emerging challenges before they become major problems. The volunteer work performed by thousands of hunters represents an enormous reservoir of knowledge that benefits scientists, government agencies, and policymakers alike. A Strong Voice in Vienna One of the highlights of the convention was a presentation by Jörg Binder, Managing Director of Hunting Austria, the national umbrella organization representing hunters throughout the country. Binder emphasized the growing importance of advocacy at the federal level. Many decisions affecting hunting today are no longer made solely within Austria’s provinces. Issues such as wolf management, conservation law, wildlife monitoring, and European Union regulations impact hunting organizations across the country. For Carinthia, maintaining a strong voice in Vienna has become increasingly important. Open Discussion Instead of Stagnation Following the presentations, delegates engaged in an extensive discussion on current issues affecting hunting and wildlife management. Under the moderation of Kerstin De Piero, participants exchanged views on challenges within local hunting districts, cooperation with agriculture and forestry, and the future direction of the hunting association. This direct dialogue remains one of the convention’s greatest strengths—bringing together practical field experience, political decision-makers, and scientific expertise under one roof. Officials and elected representatives of the Carinthian Hunting Association gathered during the 77th Annual Carinthian Hunters’ Convention in Mühldorf. (Photo: Carinthian Hunting Association) Tradition Remains Strong Despite the focus on future challenges, there was still room for what has always been at the heart of hunting culture: community, tradition, and respect. Long-serving members were honored for their dedication to hunting and wildlife conservation. Traditional hunting horn ensembles from Drautalklang, Flattach, and Maltatal, together with the Choir of the Carinthian Hunting Association, provided a fitting ceremonial backdrop. It was a worthy conclusion to a convention that delivered one clear message: Hunting in Carinthia faces significant challenges—but it also possesses the people, expertise, and organizational strength needed to meet them. Or, as Chief Huntsman Walter Brunner summarized: “The Carinthian Hunting Association is well prepared for the future.”

It is grazing that makes alpine pastures some of the most biodiverse habitats in the Alps. When most people think of an alpine pasture, they picture blooming mountain meadows, grazing cattle, and rustic mountain huts. For hunters, however, these high-elevation landscapes are far more than postcard scenery. They are among the most biodiverse habitats in the Alps—and habitats that are increasingly under pressure. “Without grazing livestock, large portions of our alpine pastures would become overgrown with shrubs and eventually return to forest within a few decades,” says Josef Obweger, chairman of the Carinthian Alpine Farming Association. What may seem like a purely agricultural issue is, in reality, a conservation issue that affects countless wildlife species—from chamois and roe deer to black grouse, mountain hares, marmots, and Alpine ibex. In other words, it affects hunters as well. Alpine Pastures Are Not Wilderness EOne common misconception persists: many people view alpine pastures as untouched wilderness. In reality, they are cultural landscapes that have been shaped and maintained by humans for centuries. Cattle, horses, sheep, goats—and increasingly even llamas—keep these areas open. They prevent dwarf shrubs, alder thickets, and eventually forests from reclaiming mountain meadows. The consequences of abandoning grazing are already visible in many regions. Where livestock disappear, open habitats quickly begin to vanish. What may appear to be “more nature” often means the loss of critical wildlife habitat. When Alpine Pastures Disappear, Wildlife Suffers Red stags and grazing livestock frequently coexist on alpine pastures, making use of the same productive summer range. For many hoofed game species, structurally diverse alpine meadows are vital. Chamois rely on open mountain grasslands as feeding areas. Roe deer thrive along the transition zones between forests and meadows, where food is abundant and varied. Even red deer benefit from the nutrient-rich summer forage found on alpine pastures. The loss of open landscapes would be especially devastating for species that depend on semi-open habitats. Black grouse require a mosaic of dwarf-shrub heath, grazed meadows, and lightly wooded areas. Marmots depend on clear sightlines to detect predators at a distance. Many rare alpine plants are also directly linked to grazing. “Some species still exist today only because alpine pastures continue to be actively managed,” Obweger explains. Nature's Most Underrated Land Managers Without goats, many alpine meadows would gradually disappear. Their constant browsing keeps shrubs and young trees in check, preserving the open habitats that so many wildlife species depend on. Many hunters are surprised to learn that not all grazing animals play the same role. Cattle primarily consume grasses. Horses feed on many plants that cattle avoid. Goats, meanwhile, are specialists when it comes to preventing encroachment by brush and young trees. They readily browse alder, willow, and other woody vegetation, slowing the natural succession that would otherwise turn meadows back into forest. Even llamas—often regarded as little more than a curiosity—have proven useful on some alpine pastures. In parts of Austria, they are intentionally used to control invasive or problematic vegetation. The result is a diverse landscape with a wide range of habitat structures—exactly the kind of diversity that wildlife depends on. Biodiversity Hotspots in the Alps Many rare alpine flowers thrive only where regular grazing occurs. Species such as alpine rose, arnica, and gentians benefit from open ground and the disturbance created by livestock. In turn, numerous insects depend on these plants, creating a complex ecological network. What hikers see as a beautiful wildflower meadow is, for wildlife, an incredibly rich and dynamic ecosystem. Scientific studies consistently show that actively managed alpine pastures rank among the most species-rich habitats in Central Europe. How Wolves Are Changing the Landscape Wolf warning signs are appearing on more and more alpine grazing areas across the Alps. The return of large predators is becoming an increasingly important issue across many alpine regions. Farmers report that cattle often change their behavior after encounters with wolves. Livestock become more vigilant, gather in tighter groups, and show stronger protective instincts toward calves. From a wildlife management perspective, this so-called “landscape of fear” effect is particularly fascinating. It influences not only livestock but may also affect the movement patterns and habitat use of wild animals. Researchers are only beginning to understand how significant these long-term changes may become. Hunters Need Alpine Farmers For many Austrian hunters, few experiences compare to hunting the high alpine pastures. These open mountain landscapes offer not only unforgettable hunting opportunities but also a deep connection to centuries of alpine tradition and wildlife conservation. For many hunters, the magic of mountain hunting begins where open alpine meadows blend into rocky slopes, dwarf pine stands, and dark forests. Yet this diverse landscape is anything but natural in the modern sense. It exists because generations of alpine farmers have maintained it. When alpine pastures are abandoned, more than livestock disappear. Hunters lose visibility, feeding areas, wildlife habitat, and ultimately a piece of alpine heritage. Anyone who values mountain hunting should recognize alpine farming as an indispensable partner in wildlife conservation. The truth is simple: without alpine farmers, many of the landscapes we now consider classic hunting country would have disappeared long ago.