San Antonio and Carrollton, TX

Safari Club International (SCI), the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide, has partnered with Wildlife Networks (WLN) to launch an exclusive SCI-branded streaming entertainment service dedicated to hunters, outdoorsmen, and conservationists across the globe.

The new digital hunting television platform will offer premium, on-demand access to original series, hunting and educational content, and advocacy updates — all under the SCI brand. The streaming service will be available across multiple devices.

“This is more than just content — We’re bringing the mission of SCI directly into the living rooms, camps, and hands of sportsmen and women everywhere. With WLN’s media expertise, we’re taking our message further and louder than ever before.” Said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of Safari Club International.

Key Features of the SCI Streaming Service Include:

• Programming Delivery: Digital video content that celebrates ethical hunting, big-game adventure, and conservation success stories.
• Global Access: Stream from anywhere in the world, on any device.
• Educational and Advocacy Content: Learn about the latest conservation policies, wildlife research, and how SCI is leading the charge to defend hunting rights worldwide.
• Member Highlights: Real stories from SCI members and chapters around the globe.

WLN Founder and CEO Manuel Mateos added, “We’re honored to partner with SCI to help tell the stories that matter — stories of stewardship, adventure, and the deep connection between hunters and the natural world. This platform is built to engage, inspire, and inform.”

The SCI streaming service will launch in October of 2025 with a full content slate and exclusive behind-the-scenes access to SCI’s biggest initiatives, including the annual SCI Convention, international hunts, and conservation fieldwork.

About Safari Club International

Safari Club International is the leading organization protecting the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. For over 50 years, SCI has been the voice for hunters, working on the front lines of advocacy, education, and conservation.

About Wildlife Network

WLN is a next-generation content and media company focused on storytelling that celebrates tradition, outdoor heritage, and legacy. From original programming to platform development, WLN partners with top-tier organizations to bring meaningful stories to life.

The post Safari Club International and Wildlife Networks Launch Exclusive SCI-Branded Streaming Service appeared first on Safari Club.

Originally published in the 2025 March/April issue of Safari Magazine.

This is a big year for USA Shooting, the national governing body for Olympic and Paralympic shooting sports in the U.S. The non-profit organization turns 30 years old and has a strong set of elite athletes ready for the international competitions of 2025.

USA Shooting saw major success on the international stage in 2024 with 68 total medals, six of them from the Paris Olympic and Paralympic Games.

A major standout at the 2024 Olympics was the Shotgun Team’s five medals, led by Vincent Hancock’s gold in Men’s Skeet. The feat made him only the sixth Olympian ever to win four gold medals in the same event.

“This sport has given me everything,” said Hancock after the historic victory. “Being able to make history while representing the United States is the greatest honor of my career.”

Teammate Conner Prince won a silver in the same event and joined Hancock on the podium last summer in Paris. Austen Smith earned a bronze in Women’s Skeet, and she and Hancock joined to earn a silver in Mixed Team Skeet.

“The extraordinary achievements of our athletes in 2024 represent more than just medals — they showcase the relentless dedication, precision, and excellence that define USA Shooting,” said Kelly Reisdorf, CEO of USA Shooting.

Safari Club International has been a gold level partner of USA Shooting since 2023.

Gracie Hensely smokes a clay and later qualifies for the junior women’s skeet team. Photo by Josh Schave.

With a strong pipeline of emerging talent and veteran champions continuing to lead the way, USA Shooting leaders say they are expanding grassroots programs and developing the next generation of American champions.

Most recently, USA Shooting named its 2025 National Skeet and Trap teams. Qualifying took place at West Palm Beach Shooting Sports Complex in January and February. Athletes from across the country competed in the hopes to make a team or earn a medal. Competitors shot a total of 250 targets in the qualification round where they aimed to shoot scores that would land them in the finals.

Familiar names, such as Hancock, Dania Vizzi, Kim Rhode (six-time Olympic medalist) and Prince, made the team as well as many newcomers.

The following athletes have been named to the 2025 national teams.

Men’s Trap

Olympic gold medalist Glen Eller, Olympian William Hinton, Derek Haldeman, Logan Lucas, two-time Olympian Derrick Mein and Olympic bronze medalist Brian Burrows

Men’s Skeet.

Christian Elliott, Dustan Taylor (Paris 2024 Olympic alternate), Phillip Jungman (Tokyo 2020 Olympian), Adam McBee, Benjamin Keller and Jordan Sapp

Women’s Trap

Olympian Rachel Tozier, Ava Downs, Carey Garrison, Aiko Bianca Coloso, Micaela Velasquez and Loretta Christian

Women’s Skeet

Olympians Dania Vizzi and Kimberly Rhode along with Olympic alternate Samantha Simonton, joined by Caitlin Connor, Alishia Layne and Karsyn Ross

Junior Men’s Skeet

Benjamin Keller, Aidin Burns, Davis Hay, Westley Kiter and Shelby Smith

Junior Men’s Trap

Jackson Schroder, Kaleb Horinek, Ramsey Bodeen, Max Hatfield and Ryan Brown

Junior Women’s Skeet

Alishia Layne, Karsyn Ross, Gracie Hensley, Liana Cerra and Madalynn Schroder

Junior Women’s Trap

Ava Downs, Carey Garrison, Micaela Velasquez, Taylor Dale and Lucy Myers

The organization will announce details of its 2025 competition schedule in the coming months at usashooting.org.

The post Olympic Milestone appeared first on Safari Club.

By John Geiger

North American hunters will be pleased to see a new lineup of Swarovski scopes made just for them.

Swarovski Optik asked American hunters what features they wanted in a riflescope. The answer was more elevation adjustment, second focal planes and an affordable price.

New for 2025, the Swarovski Z5+ line packs these requests into three 5X-magnification scopes with several options.

There is a 5-25×56 option, 2-10×42 and 3.5x18x50. MSRP’s start at $1,600. Each also has the option of four different reticles, illuminated or nonilluminated reticles and ballistic turret with Swarovski’s four color-ring dial-to turrets.

Hunters and shooters will notice new features in the new Z5+ line, such as 30mm tubes, second focal plane construction and more MOA elevation on the turret.

30MM TUBES

Most scopes made for U.S. hunters are 1-inch in diameter. That’s what they’re used to, and they are fine. You would think a scope made with the American market in mind would also have 1-inch tubes. But not this one. According to Evan Dextraze of Swarovski, MOA adjustment is more important to these hunters than having a 1-inch pipe. With a wider tube, Swarovski increased the elevation adjustment so shooters can dial up 40 MOA.

“They want to be able to shoot farther, and we don’t want to limit the elevation they can dial to,” Dextraze told me between shots at a range outside of Las Vegas recently. “They might not be shooting game at 800 or 1,000 yards, but they want to be able to practice and shoot those distances at their range.”

With the new Z5+ ballistic turret, I was able to dial to 39.5 on the ballistic turret and shoot MOA groups at just under 1,175 yards with a 143-grain 6.5 Creedmoor ELD-X.

It’s not recommended to shoot animals at extremely long distances, but shooting at steel targets in the shape of game animals out past 1,000 yards is a great way to increase your shooting skills at all ranges. Swarovski showed off their new line in November 2024 at Prairie Fire shooting range in western Nevada.

SECOND FOCAL PLANES

In a second-focal plane scope, the crosshairs are behind the magnification lens, so they do not change in size as the magnification is increased or decreased. This is the way American hunters have preferred their reticles. Conversely, American precision shooters generally prefer first focal-plane scopes.

Are there disadvantages to a second-focal plane? For one, if you’re using a drop-compensating reticle, you’ll have to dial to a certain magnification setting, usually the highest magnification, for the hash marks to be accurate.

“You can argue which is better, but when it comes to American hunters, there is no debate,” said Dextraze on the popularity of the second-focal plane reticle.

All new Z5+ scopes are second-focal plane.

Swarvoski’s new Z5i+ 5-25x56mm

Swarvoski’s new Z5i+ 3.5-18x50mm

Swarvoski’s new Z5i+ 2-10x42mm.

PRICING

It’s no secret Swarovski scopes, binos and spotting scopes are high-dollar gear. For example, the Swaro dS Gen. II 5-25×52 P riflescope costs over $5,000. The quality of glass and durability the Austrian company produces is indisputable.

However, this Z5+ line is much closer to the price many North American hunters spend on a riflescope.

Hunters can pick up a Z5+ or Z5i+ for about $1,600. The line tops out at $2,269.

The 2-10×42 has an MSRP of $1,600; the 3.5x18x50, $1,800; and the 5-25×56, $1,900. Your choice of illumination and turret will affect the pricing. But these Swaros are priced mid-tier in the crowded optics market.

“We are excited to get this to the American market,” said Dextraze of Swarovski.

Evan Dextrose of Swarovski Optik checks targets as shooters zeroed their rifles while testing out the new Swarovski Z5+ line at Prairie Fire shooting range near the Nevada-California state line.

According to Swarovski, the coatings are the same in the Z5+ as compared to the current Z5 line or any of the other lines. The erectors are no different, either. One of the scopes — the 2-10×42 does not have parallax adjustment. Also, the illuminated versions do not have Swarolight (a system that turns the illumination on and off when they are at rest or moved). But they do have an on-off switch and a three-hour auto-shutoff. But other than that, there’s not much difference between these new Z5s and other Swaro scopes.

How did Swaro trim the price in this line? It’s in the design and manufacturing, said Dextraze.

In the past, Swarovski made scopes unique from each other, even if they were in the same line. Now, they’ve designed all Z5+ scopes in a similar way with similar parts throughout. This simplifies design as well as construction without compromising quality. These scopes will come to market faster than any other Swarovski has, and the price will be lower than most.

People who really want to get a Swaro but balk at the more expensive Z8 or Z6 option will love the Z5+.

“There will be a lot more Swarovski Optik shooters in 2025,” said Dextraze.

Swarovski’s new Z5+ riflescopes have much more adjustment than previous Swarovski scopes. In this photo, the author dialed to 39.5 and shot MOA groups at 1,175 yards. Photo by Porter James.

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The partnership’s goals include joint marketing campaigns and educational initiatives to elevate brand recognition and communicate a unified message on hunting and conservation ethics. SCI and PGOAZ will also feature each other in their respective magazines, newsletters, and websites, with logo placements to reinforce this alliance in both organizations’ public profiles.

To strengthen internal collaboration, SCI and PGOAZ will share resources, provide in-service training opportunities for staff development, and offer expertise to support each other’s goals. The partnership also includes initiatives to increase hunting and conservation awareness and engage in policy advocacy where necessary to protect lawful hunting practices and support scientific understanding.

An annual meeting each January between SCI and PGOAZ will provide a dedicated forum for reviewing progress and setting strategic priorities for the year ahead.

“This partnership provides exceptional business, marketing, and membership advantages to both SCI and PGOAZ,” said SCI President John McLaurin. “By combining resources and amplifying our reach, we are not only strengthening our brands but also maximizing our ability to promote ethical hunting and conservation to an even broader audience worldwide.”

“Our partnership with PGOAZ enhances the mission and impact of both organizations,” said SCI CEO W. Laird Hamberlin. “SCI and PGOAZ will jointly amplify each other’s conservation efforts, expand hunter advocacy, and further demonstrate the integral role of ethical hunting in supporting wildlife conservation and communities in the U.S. and around the world.”

“PGOAZ is committed to preserving the integrity of, and respect for, our shared hunting heritage,” said PGOAZ chairperson Sylvia van Staden. “We look forward to joining SCI in this strategic partnership, which will elevate and strengthen our advocacy of sustainable hunting as a highly effective conservation tool.”

Background

For over 50 years, SCI has led the fight to defend the freedom to hunt and promote wildlife conservation worldwide. Based in Washington, D.C., SCI is the only hunting rights organization with a comprehensive national and international advocacy team that represents hunters in U.S. state legislatures, Congress, and on the global stage. SCI’s political and legal advocacy includes supporting pro-hunting legislation, opposing trophy import bans, and leading legal cases defending hunters’ rights, all powered by SCI’s vast grassroots network, political action committees, and international chapter network.

Founded as a non-political, non-racial organization, PGOAZ represents Zambia’s ethical and professional hunting guides and outfitters. PGOAZ is committed to maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, supporting ethical hunting practices, and advocating for the conservation of Zambia’s rich flora and fauna to ensure sustainable hunting for generations to come.

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Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) permits are crucial for individuals involved in the import or export of wildlife, ensuring compliance with international wildlife trade regulations. Adventure Permits International navigates the intricacies of CITES permits for hunters with a focus on personalized service and compliance with international standards, ensuring a seamless experience for clients looking to transport trophies and other wildlife-related items across borders.

“Adventure Permits International has earned a reputation for providing efficient, reliable, and knowledgeable services to assist in securing these permits,” said John McLaurin, President of Safari Club International. “I look forward to a productive partnership between our two organizations, which will only enhance SCI members’ experience with all wildlife import and export-related matters when traveling abroad.”

“SCI is excited to partner with Adventure Permits International to ensure our members and supporters have access to a trusted service provider for their CITES permit needs,” said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO offari Club International.“Their expertise will help streamline the process, allowing our community to focus on wildlife conservation and sustainable hunting efforts.”

“We are honored to be named SCI’s preferred CITES permit provider,” said Jerad Dabney, Founder at Adventure Permits International. “API is dedicated to providing top-tier service, and this partnership further strengthens our commitment to the hunting and conservation communities worldwide.”

About Safari Club International:
Safari Club International (SCI) is a global leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s members are dedicated to protecting the future of wildlife through responsible management, sustainable use, and public education on the role of hunters in conservation.

About Adventure Permits International:
Adventure Permits International specializes in obtaining CITES permits and other necessary legal documentation for the international transportation of wildlife. The company offers hassle-free solutions for hunters, conservationists, and wildlife enthusiasts.

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The Green Way Outdoors seeks to make hunting and fishing more accessible to Millennials and Gen-Z through an entirely new style of educational and entertainment content. Each episode of The Green Way Outdoors is about a specific hunting or fishing tactic for a particular species. The Green Way Outdoors team takes viewers from nature to the dinner table in every episode through unique hunting and fishing trips.

SCI’s one-minute segments and partnership with The Green Way Outdoors advance essential policy objectives for the hunting and fishing communities. Using the No-Net-Loss petition, SCI calls on viewers to contact their elected officials to preserve existing access to public lands for hunters and anglers. Additionally, SCI urges viewers to join the ranks of its members to protect the freedom to hunt and conserve wildlife worldwide. 

Whether it is fighting to give state wildlife agencies a more prominent management role under the Endangered Species Act, supporting hunting and fishing access on public lands, or even funding crucial wildlife population studies and surveys from coast to coast, SCI continues to be “FIRST FOR HUNTERS.” 

“I am thrilled for SCI to launch this partnership and TV segment with Kyle Green and The Green Way Outdoors,” said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of SCI. “SCI is thankful for their friendship, work, and collaboration as we look forward to a productive future of advocating for the rights and interests of hunters and anglers across the country.”

“Being a member of SCI is a no-brainer for anyone who enjoys hunting, fishing, and the outdoors,” noted Kyle Green, CEO of The Green Way Outdoors. “SCI’s history of protecting the rights of outdoorsmen and women, with a major focus on enhancing conservation efforts worldwide, is the future of the outdoor industry.”

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My archery hunt for desert mule deer in Texas quickly became an airgun hunt, and I had four months to prepare. After speaking with my guide a few times before the hunt, we had a spot and stalk plan similar to my archery hunt the previous year. Additionally, I treated my new 50 caliber Umarex Hammer no differently than a new bow, meaning I spent plenty of time training and tuning. However, the one thing you can’t plan for on any hunt are 35 mph wind gusts which makes any hunt a challenge, especially with an airgun. 

On the second morning of our hunt the winds topping out at 28 mph, we knew our only chance was to get closer. By working in over the top from the large cap of rocks down into the canyons we knew there might be a chance to get lucky. We knew it would have to be close and potentially fast. After fighting the cold and winds all morning, it wasn’t until the walk back midday that the ghost appeared out of nowhere at 113 yards. Although it wasn’t the distance I was hoping for, it was going to be that moment or never. The crosswind died down for a split second giving me a shot opportunity. The 280 grain slug landed perfectly and the rest was history. 

Hunting with a big bore airgun is incredible. For me, it is the perfect area between bowhunting and rifle hunting. It wasn’t hard or difficult to learn but rather a respectable challenge worthy of the animal I pursue. For those unsure about hunting big game with an airgun like I was at first, I encourage you to look into the 46 caliber airgun that Lewis and Clark carried in their voyage across the west.

Colin Anthony

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When selecting a long-range rifle system for that next hunt, the features and information to evaluate can be overwhelming. Sifting through the science and technology is important, but sometimes not very helpful. This article will look at the practical features of what it takes to hunt big game at extended ranges.

There is no substitute for skill and experience, but the rifle you select should always enhance what you already have. Spend plenty of time at the range to become familiar with how the rifle handles and its capabilities, as well as your capabilities. Always seek to improve your precision, or repeatability, and get your groups as tight as possible. It always helps to practice in real world scenarios.

The key to precision is a consistent load. Once you’ve determined the big game species you’re hunting, then choose the appropriate bullet to deliver the necessary knockdown energy at your farthest ethical range. For the most consistent ammo, it’s best to hand load your own, but there are some very good factory loads available to choose from.

ACTION

A centerfire bolt-action is the core of any hunting rifle and will be the only component that has the longest life. Everything else is a peripheral and can be replaced, even the stock and barrel. It should go without saying that investing in a good action is the best possible starting point.

Most bolt actions used for hunting will use a symmetrical two lug bolt with a recessed face that fully encloses the base of the cartridge. The bolt construction is a head, body and handle usually brazed together and the firing pin/cocking assembly. Remington 700 style actions will cock the firing pin when the bolt handle is rotated upward releasing the locking lugs.

In hunting conditions, the push feed bolt, as in a Remington 700, is considered more feasible in case the three-round magazine is expended, a round can be dropped in and chambered quickly. The extractor will clip the edge of the case and the spring-loaded plunger will eject a spent casing as soon as it clears the ejection port. Feeding is different when using a controlled-round feed, as in a Mauser, but there are circumstances where this is a better choice.

BARREL

The modern gun barrel is constructed of stainless steel and must withstand the high pressure of the cartridge propellant. A carbon fiber barrel is stainless steel with much of the mass removed from the length over the bore and reinforced with wrapped and bonded carbon fiber making a lightweight match-grade product.

The breech of the barrel is cut to length and threaded. The barrel is then indexed and centered to 0.010 of an inch. It is then reamed (chambered) according to the selected cartridge which consists of the body, shoulder, and neck. Head spacing is then measured with precision dial calipers. The chamber is polished with a fine emery cloth to properly grip the cartridge brass. The muzzle is then crowned or threaded for a suppressor or brake.

The finished barrel is then fitted and trued with the action, according to the index marks. No barrel is perfectly straight and the slight curve that exists by mere thousandths of an inch is mounted in a manner that the curve points straight up. Some actions have an integral recoil lug, but if not, one is positioned between the barrel and action.

The vibrations of a barrel during a gunshot are described as barrel harmonics. The barrel will move up and down, side to side and even in a circular pattern. Without getting too technical, this vibration can shift with the slightest variations of a cartridge’s charge and seating depth of a bullet. It’s vital to find a load with the most advantageous “vibrations” to achieve the tightest possible group.

STOCK

The barreled action is now ready to be fitted in a gunstock, or the structural support of the firearm. There are basically two sections of a stock: fore-end and butt. Most hunting rifles use a one-piece wooden or composite stock which require the action to be fitted and the barrel to free float letting it vibrate naturally.

The fitting of the action, known as bedding, is a critical step due to the pressure and vibrations transferring to the shooter. The bedding compound is a two-part epoxy that is spread on the stock beneath the action as a mirror image while keeping the barrel from touching any part of the fore-end that will disrupt barrel harmonics. After each shot, the rifle should return to the exact same position.

The shape of the stock should fit comfortably to the shooter. The cheek rest, hand grip and correct length of pull should comfortably fit the measurements of the shooter. The fit should allow smooth trigger control and quick reacquisition of the target for a follow-up shot, if needed. The fore-end should be rigid on a support or have a picatinny rail for bipod to reduce unwanted movement and cant.

OPTICS

By far the most important part of a long-range shooting system is the optics. Without the ability to see the target and accurately aim the firearm, all is lost. Using a variable magnification riflescope to match the firearm’s capabilities with 20x to 30x on the upper range is most appropriate. It’s much easier to acquire the target at low magnification and then zoom in until a shot can be accurately placed.

The lenses of the optics are directly proportional to the price of the scope. Good glass will add to the price but is always worth the cost. Lenses are usually multicoated to protect from scratches and improve light transmission. Larger objective lenses on the front of the scope will provide a wide field of view at the highest magnification. However, large objective lenses will add weight and will require higher mounts.

Most reticles for hunting rifles are second focal plane which means the size will not change with magnification but will create some challenges for calculations. A simple reticle design helps reduce distractions while acquiring your target but should have reference marks for a quick adjustment. Many scopes have illuminated reticles with adjustable brightness settings for low light conditions.

One of the most useful components of a riflescope is a Bullet Drop Compensating (BDC) turret. A laser range finder is required to make this feature applicable, because it allows the shooter to quickly dial the turret for bullet drop compensation. Custom turrets can be created specific to a particular load and environmental conditions and provide huge benefits to long range accuracy.

Adjusting for wind deflection is the most difficult adjustment, but some turret and/or reticle systems have designs based on a bullet’s ballistic information to hold for wind. The challenge is knowing what the wind is doing between the shooter and target and the longer the range, the more difficult. There are techniques for observing winds at various ranges, but most of the guesswork has been eliminated.

ACCURACY & PRECISION

Everything listed above are components of a long-range system with the ultimate goal of being accurate and precise. Accuracy is the ability to hit what you’re aiming for while precision is the ability to replicate that shot, outside of the shooter’s ability. Having confidence in a rifle system takes time at the range and this fact can’t be overstated enough… Range time! Range time! It’s a tool that must be understood.

Good shooting technique is the foundation for accuracy and precision: solid rests, breathing, trigger pull, follow through, etc. Gaining confidence in the rifle system comes after accurate shots and precise groups. Knowing how it handles and its capabilities, as well as your capabilities, will pay off in the field with the crosshairs on your trophy.

BONUS

A final word that’s worth mentioning is customer service. There are many fine gun builders that roll out quality products, but if their customer service falters, it tarnishes the whole experience.  The items discussed above along with many other pertinent topics can be discussed with customer service prior to a purchase. Should they take the time to answer all your questions patiently, that has value. And how they handle a problem after a purchase is even more important.

What’s more if customer service staff are actual customers, then they can speak directly to any issue brought up since they’ve probably dealt with it themselves. Nothing speaks stronger than employees that are users of their own product because believers will share from personal experiences. They will probably enjoy a good story involving the product because they share the same traditions and beliefs as their customers.

The post Things To Consider When Purchasing A Long-Range Rifle appeared first on Safari Club.

Trophy Scan’s patented scoring and measuring software represents the latest and most advanced trophy game measuring and scoring toolset ever developed. The patented processes of 3D scanning and measuring represents the future of how we study and evaluate, measure and score, conserve and preserve game species. Hunters are encouraged to use Trophy Scan to generate a 3D model which determines the SCI score of their trophy, then the scans will be confirmed and verified for the record book by a SCI Official Measurer. Once scanned, the hunter not only has a score sheet accurately depicting their game, but they also have a full catalog of commemorative options available from Trophy Scan featuring an exact replica of their trophy. From business card holders, decanter tops, jewelry, to bronzes of all sizes, as well as taxidermy quality full-size replicas, every piece is identical to the actual trophy, with details down to 1/100th of an inch. Trophy Scan will be offering a full slate of SCI commemoratives, all based on an exact replica of a hunter’s trophy.

“Trophy Scan is the future of measuring game for conservation, for entry into the record book, and for preserving the memory of a successful hunt,” said W. Laird Hamberlin, CEO of SCI and SCIF. “It not only measures and populates the score sheet according to the SCI methods, but the model also provides an insurance policy for the hunter as well. All scans are saved and can be used to generate a replica if the trophy is stolen or damaged in any way. This is truly revolutionary, and we are happy to be the first organization to endorse this method.”

“SCI has been a leader in the outdoor space for over half a century as one of the largest influencers, educators, and conservation advocates in the industry,” says Craig Harrison, CEO. “This partnership provides a revolutionary advancement in the hunting industry that we are proud to be a part of. Trophy Scan and SCI will continue to work together to develop additional ways to celebrate, score, and replicate trophies using 3D scanning and 3D printing technologies.”

To learn more, visit Trophy Scan online at https://trophyscan.com.

For 50 years, Safari Club International (SCI) has been the leading defender of the freedom to hunt and supporter of wildlife conservation worldwide. 

SCI is unique in the scope of our ability to defend and advance our freedom to hunt. SCI is the only hunting rights organization with a Washington, D.C.- based international advocacy team and an all-species focus. SCI mobilizes our 152 chapters and affiliate network representing 7.2 million hunters around the world. The conservation projects of SCI’s sister organization, the SCI Foundation, support research, management and rural communities in North America, Africa and Central Asia. In addition, SCI’s Annual Hunters’ Convention is the world’s largest marketplace that celebrates our freedom to hunt.

For more information, please visit 

WWW.SAFARICLUB.ORG

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Should you call Global Rescue?

Yes.

“Call us whenever you have a medical question during your travels,” said Garret Dejong, senior specialist in medical operations at Global Rescue. “Ask immediately before the situation or the symptoms get worse.”

A situation like this is why Global Rescue’s medical advisory services are available to members 24/7/365. Sometimes you have a question about a symptom, like a bite or a rash.

“Our team of medical professionals include experienced paramedics, nurses and doctors. We handle calls for cuts and stomach upsets to more severe illnesses and injuries, like chest pains and serious trauma,” said Michael Lovely, operations supervisor at Global Rescue.

Or sometimes you need to find a clinic in your area. It could be a COVID testing facility needed before a flight, or a health care provider who can evaluate an injury to determine if it is sprained or broken. Global Rescue will direct you to the best local medical resources around the world, so you are not left guessing about how to best address your health concern. 

And sometimes that phone call can save your life, which is what Captain Scott Kozak learned when he started having symptoms — rapid heart rate, sweating, disorientation and weakness — while in Quepos, Costa Rica, where he owns two charter boat operations.

“Those of us who live, work, play and travel internationally may wonder what would happen if you were injured or had a medical emergency in a third-world country,” said Kozak, owner and operator of Pacific Fly Sportfishing at Marina Pez Vela in Quepos. “Now I have first-hand experience.”

GLOBAL RESCUE IS THE FIRST CALL

With his heart clocking 252 beats per minute, Kozak was taken to a local clinic in Quepos.

Kozak said he called Global Rescue immediately and was advised to go to Hospital CIMA in San Jose, Costa Rica.

Hospital CIMA, built in 2000, is a full-service, acute-care hospital with a Cardiovascular Surgery Center of Excellence.

“Global Rescue has a list of criteria for vetting a hospital’s capabilities to be considered a Center of Excellence,” said Jeff Weinstein, medical operations supervisor at Global Rescue. “We have detailed conversations with leadership. We visit a hospital, with a translator if needed, to make sure the facility aligns with a U.S. Level 1 hospital — 24-hour ED, trauma and surgical services — and Joint Commission International (JCI) accreditation. We want to get you to the right hospital, not the closest.”

Despite Global Rescue’s advice, Kozak went to a smaller hospital in Quepos. The hospital determined Kozak did not have a heart attack or suffer any major damage, so when he was released several hours later, he rested for a day and based on advice from his cardiologist in the United States, went to the airport.

“While waiting at the gate to board the plane, I experienced a severe attack requiring immediate attention from airport paramedics. I was evaluated and immediately transferred to Hospital CIMA,” Kozak said.

Global Rescue’s medical advisory services came in handy once again.

“Global Rescue provided us with all information we needed in real time, including where to transport me for the best possible care in Costa Rica, setting up a hotel room for my wife across the street from the hospital, and checking on my condition two to three times per day,” Kozak said.

Kozak needed angioplasty surgery, then a second surgery to implant a pacemaker/defibrillator. “I was in the hospital for eight days (seven days in coronary ICU) for two surgeries, plus a couple more days of recovery. The level of care I received in Costa Rica was incredible. Now I feel 30 years younger. I will get a good month of rest and begin cardio rehab when I return to the states.”

One thing Kozak wishes he did differently? “I should have listened to Global Rescue from the beginning,” he said. “Although we called Global Rescue immediately after my first attack, I tried to make it to the states against Global Rescue’s advice.”

The experience did underline the importance of a Global Rescue membership and the 24/7/365 medical advisory services.

“I have consulted Global Rescue about a couple minor injuries, but I never thought I would use it in this capacity,” Kozak said. “I tell others if you have health issues or travel regularly, it’s a great idea to have a Global Rescue membership. It may save your life someday. It did for me.”

It is difficult to manage your own health care while you are having an emergency. That’s why Global Rescue members appreciate our round-the-clock medical advisory services. Our medical experts will evaluate symptoms and recommend the best health care facility, then our medical evacuation services will get you there. We’ll also work in conjunction with your family, the local health care providers and your primary care doctors at home, so everyone is on the same page.

Safari Club International highly recommends purchasing a Global Rescue membership prior to your next trip. Single trip, annual and family options are available. For more information, visit visit www.globalrescue.com/scimag or call (617) 459-4200 and mention you’re a Safari Club International member. 

The post Hunt Doctors – Medical Advisory Team Saves Captain’s Life appeared first on Safari Club.