Bedfordtimesregister.com - A legendary firearms company goes back to its roots

The maker of Winchester rifles and shotguns has made a bold move forward by going back about 150 years to reclaim the company's original name of Winchester Repeating Arms.

Thus, from this day on, the popular firearms company will answer only to the original name as declared by founder Oliver Winchester in 1866.

The Utah-based gun maker offers a complete line of fine rifles and some of the nations most famous shotguns, such as the forever popular model 12 pump shotgun.

In fact, auctioneers of experience will agree that the mere mention of Winchester guns -- make that Winchester Repeating Arms -- draws more bidders than any other name brand of firearms.

It was in the mid-20th century when the name was shortened to just Winchester, probably the whim of fashion setters who seem always to want to modernize names of nearly anything and everything to something shorter, catchier, easier to remember. In today's business and marketing speak, it is called branding.

But we have retuned to yesteryear when the model 94 lever action tamed the west -- along with the Colt six shooter -- and I like it.

And I also like the new lineup of Winchester Repeating Arms, such as the new model 70 center-fire rifle. This big game, bolt-action rifle is considered the most coveted of all high power rifles by hunters and collectors.

Plus the factory has introduced a new speed pump-action rifle: a Super X rifle that boasts an excellent accuracy factor, something usually not associated with autoloaders.

Another recent addition to the Winchester Repeating Arms lineup is the Super X semi-automatic shotgun.

I own and shoot one of these in matt finish and mounted on a flat black synthetic stock. This trouble-free shotgun has become my favorite for waterfowl and turkey. It has earned the job by shedding swamp dunks and mud cakes with nary a problem.

Wildlife officers sought

Ohio's wildlife officers, a modern name for game wardens, are aging with several retirements pending.

That means that for young men and women who seek that type of employment -- a great way to mix law enforcement with the love of the outdoors -- this may be the best time ever to enter the field.

Ohio Department of Natural Resources officials have posted the need for 18 new officers.

Applicants must be 21 years of age, have a valid driver's license, and have at least a two-year degree in fish and wildlife management, criminal justice, environmental law enforcement, or a related field of study. They must be fit and able to swim.

Selected individuals will attend a six-month academy and will be considered cadets during the training period. Applicants who meet the requirements may take a state proficiency test on June 7.

Applications are available by calling 1-800-WILDLIFE.

Hunting seasons announced

I know, the grass is just turning green but the fall hunting season is just a few months away.

Fall wild turkey hunters will be granted some additional time to do their thing. The fall hunt is gaining popularity especially for those with turkey dogs.

Turkey can now be pursued in 46 Ohio counties and fall season will run from Oct. 11 to Nov. 30.

The 2008-09 deer season will kick off with archery beginning Sept. 27, with additional anterless permits at reduced cost good only for the first several weeks of archery season.

Deer gun season, the week following Thanksgiving, will include a bonus weekend set for Dec. 20-21. Muzzle loader season is set for December 27 to 30.

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