We’ve long known that shooting can be a family affair and, for this month’s cover story, seasoned rifleman and columnist Mark van den Boogaart has demonstrated just that by enlisting the help of his 12-year-old son in reviewing the latest .22LR offering from Tikka, the T1x Hunter, a rifle which he reckons is ‘accurate, functional and reliable, all of which meant it was perfect for a slightly nervous young man and first-time shooter’. Sticking with rifles, Daniel O’Dea heralds the ‘return’ of Smith & Wesson to the lever-gun arena. S&W and lever-guns we hear you ask? Well, read Daniel’s review of the Smith & Wesson 1854 and you’ll see exactly what he means. Also this month, senior correspondent Rod Pascoe lifts the lid on those often mysterious and sometimes misleading markings on firearms as he takes a deep dive into the world of proof markings, explaining exactly where, when and why they find their way on to every gun in our possession. The feral pig is a curse on farmers and rural land owners across most of Australia and this month Bonnie Nicol has outlined the 10,000 Ears project, a fascinating account of a joint venture between scientists and recreational hunters to tackle the crisis head-on. And speaking of hunters, don’t miss our spotlight on binoculars, as we run the rule over several pairs which can give you the edge next time you go bush in search of anything from the humble rabbit to a majestic trophy stag. And along with all our regular columns, features and letters to the editor, we feel there’s something for every shooter to enjoy in our August offering.