The Tikka T3x Varmint Hunter in .223 Remington is a rifle purpose-built for long-range vermin control and continues a winning formula for Aussie hunters. Our reviewer Chris Redlich did his bit for pest control during a night’s spotlighting and was so impressed by the rifle he placed an order for one in 6.5 Creedmoor. Elsewhere in this issue we take a look at the Winchester XPR Synthetic in .350 Legend, an enjoyable short to medium-range calibre rifle which can be had for less than $1000. Also under review are the latest laser rangefinder binoculars from German giant Steiner and we take road test a range of DeathGrip tripods from US firm BOG. Lionel Swift turns back the clock for an entertaining look at three old gun shops of Little Collins Street in Melbourne, Douglas Riach tackles the slippery subject of snakes and the hunter while senior correspondent John Dunn launches the first of a three-part special documenting his hunting return to the Cobourg Peninsula. And our usual columns, features and letters are all aboard as ever to keep you busy.