I have both and each one has pros and cons. But I would say the xtr iii is definitely a step up from the pst gen ii. The only thing I prefer is the reticle on the pst for hunting. Both have really good fov, but the xtr iii fov is phenomenal.
I put a foam ear plug in the end if mine, drop it in a pvc tube, and fill with clr. I let it soak for a few hours and rinse with warm water and dawn dish soap. Clr does an excellent job taking all the carbon off.
In my experience they don't seem to be as reactive when it's really cold, or if there is a lot of snow. The best calling seems to before the storms, and after the snow melts.
Made 2 stands this morning before we have to go finish Christmas shopping. First stand I went back to a place I called about a month ago and called in 5, but only got 3 killed. I let out 3 howls and in less than a minute a pair pops up 200 yards out. I lip squeaked them to about 100 yards...
Dave puts out some good videos. I've been wanting to build a 20 caliber barrel burner for some time now, after seeing his .20-250. Just never got around to it.
I found the same to be true. I've shot a few deer with a 69gr berger out of my 243. I would aim high on the shoulder, and they wouldn't go very far. A couple of them fell where they stood.