This handbook serves as a reference for the mandatory hunter education course in Texas. The "Introduction" explains hunter education's goal to produce safe, knowledgeable, responsible, and informed hunters. It also gives information related to hunting opportunities, administration, and management. Chapter 2, "Our Hunting Heritage," gives a historical perspective on hunting and conservation, reviews the developmental phases each hunter typically experiences, and explores current and changing attitudes toward hunting and conservation. An overview of ecology and natural relationships is presented in Chapter 3, "Hunting--A Tool of Wildlife Management." Accident prevention, shooting safety, and ethics are discussed in Chapter 4, "Hunter Safety and Responsibility." Chapter 5, "Modern Firearms," reviews basics of firearm and ammunition parts and functions and presents proper handling and care of firearms. Chapter 6, "Primitive Sporting Arms" reviews basics of muzzleloading and bowhunting. First aid and emergency situations are discussed in Chapter 7, "Survival and Wilderness First Aid." The final chapter, "Basic Hunting Techniques" provides information on specific hunting preparation, planning, and techniques. It also reviews the basic steps of cleaning game. Definitions and helpful references are included at the end of each chapter. Several chapters contain written exercises. A Texas Wildlife Identification Guide is also inserted in the handbook. (KS)