Thanks for the reply.

We have not taken a hunter's ed class yet but now I realize that should be our first course of action. I'll search for them in a few and get it on our schedule.

Scoping out an area would be perfect. I realize it's not always about harvesting something and don't want to go kill something for the sake of killing it so photography would be a great way to get some experience and gain some knowledge. Photography is one of my hobbies and my son has shown some interest in it so that will be a great transition. I don't quite know where to start though. We're in a somewhat rural part of NC but I don't know who to hook up with or where to go to even spot some animals in the wild. We would definitely try to be mindful of others hunting and would not want to spook their game. Thanks for the heads up on that one.

Small game is fine for us to start... I've been watching a lot of the Outdoor channel and seeing how they're taking down turkey and ducks. Doesn't have to be a huge buck right out of the gate or anything. Just want to gain the knowledge on how to be ethical and the best way to go about doing things from tracking, to harvesting, to cleaning and cooking what we harvest. Like I noticed that they don't take down a buck unless it's in it's fourth year or something to that effect. As an outsider, I don't understand why that is or why you shouldn't take down certain animals. They all look like 'deer' to an outsider so I want to get a better understanding as to why and how... the impact it has on game management, etc. I know it's a lot to absorb over time and little steps are important. I don't anticipate understanding it all in one day... just making observations based on what I've watched on TV or heard people say.

Anyways... I got side tracked. I'd like to learn to hunt with both my bow and a firearm. I only own a 20 gauge right now and I'd like to purchase a rifle at some point but I don't know which one to buy or for what reason... Just trying to gain a bunch of knowledge before I start making purchases I'll regret.

Appreciate the info and any future advise.