A Taste of Heritage in Sporting Clays: A Comprehensive Review of Ball and Buck x Ranger Collaboration

Bottom Line Up Front

 

If you give consideration to exclusive and unique products, then you’ll enjoy a look at this collection. However, if you do not care about aesthetics then this fashionable collection is not for you. If you like the products that Ranger already provides for the clay target industry, then you are going to like what they’ve done here. The Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Edge LE are the exact same frames I personally enjoy competing in on a weekly basis but now they’ve really got some character. The lenses they provide are not the highly impressive RIACT A.I. ™ lenses but they are their high-quality lenses that also don’t come at the cost of RIACT A.I. ™ lenses. As an elegant touch these do have the signature Ball and Buck™ Logo. The Active + Field Shirt is super comfortable but make sure it fits your style. I don’t think it’s designed for your average shooter, but those that like to spend some time in the field wing-shooting, it won’t disappoint. Personally, I can’t wait to wear it during the next Upland Hunt I take the wife out on. These products are not cheap…but in any industry, when you mix high-quality products with fashionable heritage, the word “cheap” is no where to be found.

Photo Credit: Ranger

Background

 

In the world of sporting clays, tradition meets innovation with the collaboration between Ball and Buck™ and Ranger. Two Massachusetts-based brands, deeply rooted in American heritage and craftsmanship, have joined forces to create a collection tailored for enthusiasts who cherish the timeless pursuit of clay target shooting. Having received a demo version of the products, The Clay Lab had the opportunity to experience firsthand the synergy between Ball and Buck™ and Ranger in crafting premium eyewear and apparel. Here's a detailed and expanded review of the Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Edge LE, Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Lens Kit, and the Active+ Field Shirt.

Photo Credit: Ranger

Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Edge LE:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆

 

The Edge LE eyewear capsule is a masterpiece of design and functionality as it has been from the start. Crafted with the discerning shooter in mind, the gunmetal frame exudes sophistication and durability, while the Whiskey Tortoise Windsor rim adds a touch of timeless elegance. What sets the Edge LE apart is its aesthetic appeal, some people really are just looking for something they know performs but want to stand out a bit. The HD Medium lens is Ranger’s top-selling lens for a good reason, it offers a high level of clarity, allowing shooters to see targets with confidence. Additionally, the inclusion of a cognac camo case and camo cleaning cloth adds a touch of sophistication to the overall package.

 

One minor drawback of the Edge LE may be its price point, considering you receive only one lens with the set of frames. Of course, it's important to note that the quality and craftsmanship of the Edge LE justify its cost and the fact that you can utilize any other Ranger Edge lenses you may already have or plan to get in the future. As such, for those who prioritize both style and performance, the Edge LE stands out as a premium choice in the realm of shooting eyewear. You are getting Ranger’s Top of the line frames and lens, mixed with the elegance and traditional touch of Ball and Buck™.

Photo Credit: Ranger

Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Lens Kit:

⭐️⭐️⭐️☆

 

The Lens Kit complements the Edge LE frame perfectly, providing shooters with more choices in lenses depending on the varying shooting conditions. With the inclusion of Dark Purple and Max Light lenses, shooters can adapt to different light conditions with ease, ensuring optimal performance in any environment. Besides the elegant touch of the Ball and Buck™ Logo, this lens kit comes with a camo scratch-resistant lens carrying case which offers protection while adding a stylish touch that aligns with the overall aesthetic of the collection.

 

Priced at $248, the Lens Kit offers value for money considering the quality of the two lenses and accessories included. One drawback is that you cannot choose the lenses you receive in this package however, the Dark Purple and Max Light lenses are among the most highly chosen sets since their release. This is of course for those who place aesthetics and fashion relatively high on their list when considering their choices in shooting since what makes these lenses special are the laser engraved logo and beautifully designed accessories.

Active+ Field Shirt:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

 

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Active+ Field Shirt exemplifies the marriage of style and functionality. Constructed from Brushed Duck Canvas and adorned with Alcantara patches, the shirt not only looks the part but also delivers in terms of performance. The gusseted back panel provides freedom of movement, allowing shooters to swing their guns with ease, while the large shell pockets offer convenience during shooting sessions.

 

These shirts are handmade in Boston, the Active+ Field Shirt is a testament to American craftsmanship and quality. With a hefty price of $298, it may have to be considered an investment, but the durability and longevity of the shirt will likely justify the cost for those who are both active on the range and in the field with wing-shooting. This doesn’t fit into my fashion style; however, I will happily be shooting in it when it’s time to getting out and hunting.

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Overall Impressions

 

The collaboration between Ball and Buck™ and Ranger represents a celebration of the sporting clays lifestyle. Each product in the collection reflects the shared commitment to excellence, craftsmanship, and innovation. While there may be minor drawbacks such as pricing and exclusivity, the overall quality and performance of the products outweigh any concerns.

As The Clay Lab, I encourage fellow enthusiasts to share their thoughts and experiences with the Ball and Buck™ x Ranger collection below. Together, let's continue to elevate the tradition of clay target shooting with these exceptional offerings.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Ball and Buck™ x Ranger collaboration sets a new standard in the world of sporting clays when it comes to collaborations. With premium eyewear and apparel designed to enhance the shooting experience, enthusiasts can embrace both tradition and innovation in the field and on the range. As two esteemed brands united by their passion for the outdoors, Ball and Buck™ and Ranger have delivered a collection worthy of noting.

 

Experience excellence firsthand and join us in celebrating the spirit of sporting clays with these exceptional products. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or new to the sport, the Ball and Buck™ x Ranger collection offers something for everyone. Embrace the heritage, craftsmanship, and performance that define the sporting clays lifestyle, and elevate your shooting experience with these exceptional offerings from Ball and Buck™ and Ranger.

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Fiocchi Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition: Elevating the Hunt with Innovation

In the pursuit of upland game birds, the discerning hunter seeks ammunition that not only delivers on performance but also aligns with principles of sustainability. Fiocchi, a brand synonymous with quality in the ammunition world, has stepped into the realm of environmentally conscious hunting with its Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition, providing hunters with a viable alternative that merges effectiveness with ecological responsibility.

 

The Environmental Imperative:

 

As conservation efforts gain prominence in the outdoor community, hunters are increasingly mindful of the impact their choices have on the environment. Traditional lead shot, while effective, raises concerns about lead exposure in the ecosystem. Fiocchi's Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition emerges as a solution, offering an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on performance.

 

Bismuth: The Green Shot:

 

Fiocchi's utilization of bismuth as a shot material addresses the environmental concerns associated with lead. Bismuth is known for its non-toxic properties, making it a safer and more sustainable choice. The Fiocchi Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition allows hunters to enjoy their pursuit while minimizing the environmental footprint associated with traditional lead shot.

 

Performance on the Field:

 

Beyond its ecological merits, the Fiocchi Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition excels in performance. The shot's density and ballistic characteristics closely resemble that of lead, ensuring reliable patterns and effective terminal performance. Hunters can confidently take to the field, knowing that their ethical and environmental choices do not compromise their ability to bring down pheasants cleanly and efficiently.

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Photo Credit: Castellani

Versatility and Consistency:

 

Fiocchi's commitment to quality extends to the Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition's versatility. Available in various shot sizes, hunters can tailor their loads to specific hunting scenarios and preferences. Whether navigating dense cover or stalking open fields, the ammunition's consistency and reliable ballistics make it a dependable choice for a diverse range of pheasant hunting situations.

 

Respecting Tradition, Embracing Innovation:

 

Fiocchi's foray into bismuth-based ammunition for pheasant hunting exemplifies a commitment to both tradition and innovation. Recognizing the time-honored tradition of upland bird hunting, the Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition allows hunters to continue their pursuits with a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

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Photo Credit: Castellani

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Photo Credit: Castellani

Conclusion:

 

Fiocchi's Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition emerges as a testament to the evolution of hunting practices, where effectiveness and environmental consciousness coexist. As hunters increasingly recognize the importance of sustainable choices, Fiocchi provides an option that seamlessly blends tradition with innovation. With the Bismuth Pheasant Ammunition, the pursuit of upland game birds becomes not just a sport but a responsible and ethical endeavor, ensuring the legacy of hunting endures for generations to come.

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