Hunting Whitetail Deer in Missouri: An Atibal Optics Success Stories

Introduction

For whitetail deer hunters, Missouri is a must-visit destination with its abundant game and diverse hunting opportunities. My name is Chris Allard, and as an avid hunter, taxidermist, and an Atibal Optics Pro Staffer since 2017, I’ve had my share of thrilling hunts in the Show-Me State. With over a decade of experience in law enforcement, I’m also certified as a firearms instructor and rangemaster. These roles, alongside my passion for the outdoors, have taught me the value of reliable gear. That’s why I trust Atibal Optics. Their unbeatable price, rock-solid durability, and the NO BS Lifetime Warranty far outshine larger brands that failed me in the past.

For my general rifle hunts in Missouri, I rely on the Sig716i Tread chambered in .308, topped with Atibal’s X 1-10x30 FFP scope. Paired with Speer 150gr LEO Softpoint ammo, this setup offers precision and versatility, whether I’m shooting at 100 yards or more. My dad, Paul Allard, prefers a Howa 1500 chambered in 30-06, coupled with the Atibal Nomad 4-16x50 SFP. He loads his own 180gr Hornady SST ammo, ensuring accuracy and dependable performance.

Missouri has been good to us over the years, and it’s time to share our hunting experiences, tips, and hard-earned lessons to help you plan your next hunt.

Back-to-Back Success in Missouri’s General Rifle Season

Across 2023 and 2024, Missouri proved itself as a prime hunting ground for my dad, and I. Our trips during the general rifle season to family-owned property brought plenty of action and unforgettable memories.

2023 Hunt

With limited time for scouting, we made the best of existing knowledge of the property and natural deer patterns. The results? Two bucks down.

• My Harvest (Chris Allard): I took a cull 8-point buck at 105 yards using the Sig716i Tread equipped with the Atibal X 1-10x scope. The 150gr Speer LEO Softpoint performed flawlessly, ensuring a clean, humane shot.
• Dad’s Harvest (Paul Allard): My dad dropped a solid 10-point, 170lb typical buck at 120 yards. His trusty Howa 1500, paired with 180gr Hornady SST handloads, continued proving its effectiveness.

Interestingly, the cull buck that I took had broadheads and needles embedded in them, likely from previous injuries. It served as a reminder that hunting helps not just in population control but also in removing injured or unfit animals from the herd.

2024 Hunt

This past year, we put in more time and effort, and it paid off handsomely.

• Dad’s 2024 Buck: My dad harvested a breathtaking 15-point non-typical buck weighing 225 pounds. His 65-yard shot, again with his Howa 1500 and reloads, stunned us all. The game warden estimated the buck’s score at 165+ (we’re still waiting on an official score to determine if it qualify as Boone & Crockett buck).

Missouri offers opportunities for both in-state and out-of-state hunters. Whether you’re chasing mature bucks or cull deer to help the population thrive, it’s a state that promises excitement and reward.

Key Tips and Strategies for Whitetail Success in Missouri

1. Know Your Gear

• Optics: A reliable scope can make or break your hunt. The Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP is versatile, offering clarity for both close-range and longer shots common in Missouri’s mixed terrain. For longer looks, the Nomad 4-16x50 SFP’s precision dominates.
• Firearm: Choose a rifle and caliber suited to the terrain and your game. My .308 Sig716i was perfect for quick follow-up shots, while Dad’s .30-06 Howa 1500 offered pinpoint accuracy for his trophy buck.
• Ammo: Consistency is key. Softpoint rounds like the Speer 150gr LEO or Hornady SST ensure reliable performance, penetration, and energy transfer.

2. Scout When Possible

Missouri’s rolling hills and wooded areas are ideal for whitetail deer. Put in the time before the season to identify bedding, feeding, and travel areas.

• Use trail cameras and look out for rubs, scrapes, and well-worn trails.
• If scouting time is limited (like our 2023 hunt), work with what you know and trust your instincts.

3. Cull Bucks Play an Important Role

Don’t overlook cull bucks! These deer often have poor genetics or injuries that make them less suitable for breeding. Taking them helps improve the health of local deer populations.

4. Be Prepared for Weather Variability

The general rifle season in Missouri is often met with varying weather patterns. Dress in layers and invest in quality cold-weather gear. Wet socks or shivering through your hunt is never fun!

5. Practice Your Shooting

Whether your shot is 65 yards or 120 yards, practice is crucial. Spend time at the range to familiarize yourself with your weapon and optics setup. Confidence in your gear translates to ethical, clean shots.

6. Follow Missouri’s Hunting Regulations

Understand and follow the state’s regulations on permits, tagging, and legal hunting hours. The Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) provides comprehensive resources to ensure you stay compliant.

Gear Spotlight

Atibal Optics deserves a special mention for their high-quality scopes that blend performance and affordability. The Atibal X 1-10x30 FFP and Atibal Nomad 4-16x50 SFP offered unbeatable clarity and adjustability for our varying hunting scenarios. And with their NO BS Lifetime Warranty, they’re a brand you can trust on every hunt.

Final Thoughts

Missouri’s general rifle season is an experience every whitetail enthusiast should enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or new to the sport, the state’s diverse terrain, abundant deer population, and hunting opportunities make it a premier destination for whitetail hunting.

If you’re planning your next Missouri hunt, make sure you’re equipped with reliable gear and plenty of preparation. The memories, success, and stories you’ll take home might just include that dream buck—or at least some valuable lessons for next season.