A Look At Some Of Our Top Covers From The Past 50 Years

Back in 1973, there was a lot riding on that very first issue. With no subscribers yet, that magazine had to sell well on America's newsstands to be considered successful. That meant capturing the attention of readers with bold graphics and creative cover blurbs, including my personal all-time favorite: "I Organized the Anti-Hunting Freaks!"

Front-cover strategies have evolved over time, but the mission is still the same—get would-be readers to pick up a copy. It's a dark art, and we're often surprised by what works and what doesn't. Our favorite covers don't always resonate with readers, and some we're unsure about sell out. What we do know, for 50 years, HUNTING has been the premier magazine devoted to hunters, from the front cover to the last page.

To pick up your copy of the 50th Anniversary issue of Petersen's HUNTING click here.