As my buddies and I listened to the coyote howls around us, we were unsure if they were coming from either my FoxPro Prairie Blaster or a pack of coyotes within the thick mesquite brush. As the howls grew closer, I knew they were coyotes, and then quickly gestured to Wayne, our designated shooter, to get ready to spot them coming along the west scendaro to answer our call. I selected “Coyote Pup in Distress #2″ from my menu of calls on my TX-500 remote. With an easy push of the knob, I wirelessly sent the call sound instructions 75 yards down the scendaro to the Prairie Blaster.

Using a motor vehicle for hunting has become extremely popular in recent years. Like any other topic that concerns hunting with modern equipment, the choice of electric vs. gas-power is hotly debated among hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts.

The electric powered all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) available for hunting have come a long way over the last decade. These vehicles were initially used to travel golf courses and move golfers from tee to tee. Most golfers know the carts lacked power and sometimes walking the course was faster and easier.

Advancements in motor technology have enhanced the performance of electric ATVs. In many hunting circles the electric vehicle is the number one choice, and for valid reasons. Probably the biggest advantage of electric power is the environmental benefit. With nearly zero pollutants being put into the atmosphere, the electric motor is kinder to crops, wildlife, and the population in general.  Some communities even banned the use of gasoline ATV vehicles due to the threat they caused the environment. Technological advancements have also aided in boosting the power in electric motors, which allows them to move over the rugged terrain often traveled by hunters.

Aside from environmental issues, electric motor performance has been enhanced by the upgraded design of the lead-acid battery. The most popular batteries are the 36 volt and the 48 volt, both of which provide ample power during a full day of hunting. These batteries are designed to run all day when fully charged. Many electric ATV models are equipped with recharging components which increases the battery life and makes it possible to focus on hunting instead of worrying about your ATV. The cost of operation is a major consideration when purchasing an ATV, so do not look only at the initial investment when making your choice. It is estimated that it costs five to 10 times more to operate a gas/diesel model.

Although becoming less popular, the gas-powered ATV still has its loyal followers. Users of the gas ATV can always bring along an extra supply of fuel for increased range without having to worry about recharging batteries.  This is an advantage over electric motors when using an ATV in a remote area.  Hauling heavy loads over rugged territory gives the gas engine an edge over electric motors.  Gas engines work better for pulling farm and heavy equipment around the countryside.

Gasoline motors have also seen significant upgrades as time has passed. Four-cycle engines are much quieter and cleaner running than the older two-cycle engines that used to be the norm. However, this type of engine still emits pollutants, a major problem for those environmentally conscious hunters. Another drawback with the gas engine is masking the strong smell of gasoline. Deer have excellent senses and their primary defense is an acute sense of smell.  If a hunter’s clothing comes in contact with gasoline, it is like waving a big red flag in the face of a trophy buck.

The choice is a personal one, unless dictated by the community in which one hunts. Both offer advantages over the other, but with technology upgrades, many hunters are leaning toward electric options because of the environment, the quieter access to hunting lands, and the savings on the high cost of fossil fuels.

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Tight Lines. Hidden Blinds. Gear Finds,

The Wide Open Spaces Team