Hunting nad Safari Magazine - Issue no.5

The Region’s First Hunting & Safari Magazine

260 years of Sauer&Sohn A vast store of unique experience

Bear Grylls Survival Series at IWA 2011

Interview with

Mr. Johannes Davoras Chairman of Swarovski Optik

“Outdoor Lebanon Show”

22-26 June, Biel -Beirut

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Go Hunting With Jeep

®

USD 6 / DHS 25 / RS 30 / JOD 5

BHD 3 / QAR 25 / KD 2.5 / EGP 50

editor's note

Dear Readers, With the onset of the summer months the wing shooting season is over for another year in many locations, but that does not mean that you have to clean and polish the old shotgun and lock it away until next season. If you are legally allowed to own a firearm wherever you live there are bound to be ranges that you can polish up your shooting techniques, even swallow your pride and get a couple of lessons from a professional. We are all great shots aren’t we‌.. Well, no we are not! Me for one. At the end of the game hunting seasons I will go to a clay shooting ground and shoot a few sporting rounds, or my particular favorite, skeet rounds and will ask the professional where he feels I am going wrong or where I might be able to improve. You will be surprised how much it helps.

We even have clubs that set out clay traps in wooded areas to more simulate actual live birds even changing the direction and speed of the targets which not only improves ones accuracy but also ones reaction times. If you are able to take advantage of this sort of facility near you, or you are able to produce it for yourself, you will be really ready for the start of next season rather than having to get into the groove again on live game.

In this issue we look at what gun is best for skeet shooting, whether you are a dedicated skeet shooter or a club shooter, and advise you which way to go. We also take look at a few other new guns on the market, especially a very pretty, but functional, semi auto on page 30. Take a look.

As well we showcase a couple of great articles on 4WD vehicles, both iconic brands in their own right but totally different in style and appearance. There is the rugged, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, and the more luxurious, Land Rover LR4. Both have excellent off road pedigree and would not let you down on the hunt.

We introduce you to some great products that are new to the market which I am sure you will find extremely useful to you, and to offer some diversity to the magazine we look at some weapons that we hope you will find interesting, even if they are not actual hunting firearms.

Our personal interviews in this edition are particularly fascinating as we met with, Mr. Johannes Davoras, Chairman of Swarovski Optik, as well as that intrepid Lebanese hunter and environmentalist, Mr. Paul Saghbini.

In our desire to make the magazine more interesting and more international, we are happy to introduce you to three new regular contributors, all exper ts in their own field of endeavor, Mr. Robert G. Segel, Mr. Jan Sjolin and Mr. Bernard Feliciano. Welcome gentlemen.

And finally, and as always, we urge you to enjoy our sport and pastime in safety and with due consideration to everything and everyone around you.

Richard Camm.

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contact us

The Region’s First Hunting & Safari Magazine

260 years of Sauer&Sohn A vast store of unique experience

Bear Grylls Survival Series at IWA 2011

Interview with

Mr. Johannes Davoras

Chairman of Swarovski Optik

“Outdoor Lebanon Show”

22-26 June, Biel -Beirut

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited

Go Hunting With Jeep

®

Editorial Lara Mansour Sawaya Managing Editor - English Titles email lara.m@amedadver tising.com

Richard Camm Senior Editor email rcamm@mailme.ae

Ylova Hamdan Assistant Editor email ylova.h@amedadver tising.com

For Advertising Inquiries Hisham Sawaya CEO - Dubai email hisham.s@amedadver tising.com mob +971 50 661 6677 USD 6 / DHS 25 / RS 30 / JOD 5

BHD 3 / QAR 25 / KD 2.5 / EGP 50

Jeep Wrangler 2011 Our Cover: Issue 5 - May 2011

Joseph Bcherrawy Account Manager - Dubai email joe.b@amedadver tising.com mob +971 55 202 6367

Jean Kassis Sales Director - Lebanon email jean@awraqpublishing.net tel 00961 4 523910 / 03 449344

Carla Mezher Senior Media Sales - Lebanon email carla@awraqpublishing.net tel 00961 4 523910 / 03 449344

Pascal Khorj Senior Sales Representative - Lebanon email pascal@awraqpublishing.net tel 00961 4 523910 / 00961 3 137557

H&S Travel Joe Balesh Business Development Manager email jbalesh@mailme.ae hsmagazine.travel@gmail.com tel 00961 71 768211 mob 00971 50 551 5957

Design Luvin Santiago Louie Carmona Contact

AWRAQ PUBLISHING S.A.R.L Honein Bldg. 2nd Floor Antelias Bikfaya Main road, Rabieh Metn Lebanon Tel 00961 4 523910 Email : awraq.publishing@gmail.com

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Media Representative AMED Adver tising Executive Tower D, Office 1301 Business Bay, Dubai - UAE Tel +971 4 454 1566 Email : info@amedadver tising.com

Titajans Dıs Tanıtım Ltd. Sti. Nispetiye Cad. Ihsan Aksoy Sok. Modern Ap. No: 2 D.21 34337 Etiler /Istanbul - Turkey Tel: +90 212 257 76 66 e-mail: titajans@titajans.com

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Zayed Al Nahyan Ruler’s Representative in the Western Region, and Chairman of the Emirates Falconers’ Club

KNOW MORE SEE MORE GET MORE 14-17 SEPTEMBER, 2011 ABU DHABI NATIONAL EXHIBITION CENTRE

With over 100,000 visitors in 4 days, ADIHEX is the ultimate networking opportunity bringing together buyers, enthusiasts and leading decision makers in the industry.

Exhibit at the only exhibition dedicated to hunting, equestrian and outdoor sports in the region and benefit from this unique opportunity to come face to face with your target audience.

For more information visit www.adihex.com

our contributors

Rober t Segel is the Senior Editor for Small Arms Review and Small Arms Defense Journal magazines. His area of exper tise is in automatic weapons from the 1894 to 1945 period with a primary focus on World War I machine guns, though the two magazines cover military and law enforcement weapons both historical and modern.

Rober t G. Segel

Jan Sjรถlin, is an editor in his home country of Sweden and has been interested in hunting and nature/conservation since childhood. He mainly hunts moose, roe deer and wild boar. He hunts with a Sako rifle in .30-06 cal, and he reloads his own ammunition for more precision. He is also involved with capturing and tagging roe deer and wild boar for research purposes.

Jan Sjรถlin

Bernard Feliciano is an industrial relations professional who, over the last 30 years, has become somewhat of an exper t in the field of firearms specifically related to military small arms and hunting and target weapons of all calibers.

Bernard Feliciano

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this month

news hunt

news hunt

Outdoor Lebanon

Lebanon has recently witnessed a real development in the tourism sector with a 39% increase in terms of tourists’ number in 2010, the highest growth rate worldwide. Outdoor activities and sports have become the focal point of many tourists and visitors, especially given Lebanon’s moderate climate and natural sceneries. On one hand, Lebanese mountain resorts host annually a large number of Arab tourists who enjoy skiing and several other winter sports. On another hand, the summer season covers each and every type of water sports and activities from diving to fishing and swimming, etc. Besides, plate shooting, camping, and trekking have become a traditional summer activities across Lebanon.

The first exhibition of its kind in Lebanon and the Middle East Joins the large events series organized by IFP

scopes

keep in mind while buying your

Over the past few years, internationallyrecognized sports were introduced to Lebanon such as ATV driving, bungee jumping, paragliding, kayaking, and jet skiing, as well as other extreme sports, which were wellreceived by the Lebanese.

In order to boost these types of natural activities, encourage national tourism, and introduce several outdoor sports to young amateurs, IFP decided to organize “Outdoor Lebanon 2011.” This international fair will be the first of its kind for recreational activities

Skeet gun!

and outdoor sports in Lebanon and the Middle East, and will take place from June 22 to June 26, 2011, at Beirut International Exhibition & Leisure Center (BIEL).

“Outdoor Lebanon” will host specialized companies showcasing exclusive equipment, tools and outfi ts such as fishing, camping, diving, and biking, among others, as well as water, land, and air sports and activity material, all essential for the summer tourist or visitor.

When buying a skeet-shooting gun, there are several factors that you must keep in mind. Firstly, you need to distinguish the purpose of the gun will you be using it mainly for the sport of skeet or will you need a gun that is suitable for other target games, as well as skeet?

IFP has chosen to make this summer event a truly fun experience for the entire family by organizing several activities such as plate shooting, mountain climbing, trekking, sports competitions, and other carefully designed activities to satisfy all ages and tastes.

Moreover, engine sports amateurs will find a large space at the fair dedicated to motorcycles, ATV, jet skiing, and the like.

Organizers will design special adventures and never-witnessed-before activities such as biking and ATV driving on mountain tracks.

Outdoor Lebanon 2011 is a not-to-be-missed exhibition promising to be a stunning event where fun and recreation merge with zeal and delight.

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Pulsar NV Phantom 3x50

Things to

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I know you must be pretty anxious, so let us dive straight into the differences, shall we? If you want to purchase a gun solely for the purpose of skeet, you r best bet would be to get a 28 inch barrel gun as this will prove to be much faster and much easier to move around on the skeet field.

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Skeet is shot on a semi-circular layout with clays thrown from high and low towers situated on each side. Compared to other sporting games, the targets are relatively closer in terms of distance to the shooter. Therefore the lighter and quicker your gun is, the better your game.

Another important factor relies on the choke of your gun. The choke is a narrowing toward

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Pulsar is a brand of Yukon Advanced Optics Worldwide. The brand includes optics and advanced NV designs culminating years of research into a new line targeted towards professional and discriminate amateur users.

Law enforcement, tactical, search and rescue operations and many other applications are considered in the development of the Pulsar Models. of choosing a reticle has also been solved effectively. With the Phantom, you can choose the most suitable reticle configuration and change it by simply pressing a button (the Phantom with the Mil-Dot reticle is also available). The voltage stabilization system eliminates reticle shift even with an almost discharged battery. All main controls are on top of the body simplifying accessibility. These and other useful features make the Phantom one of the most interesting and promising new recruits to the class of elite night vision riflescopes.

the muzzle in the bore of the gun. It is basically a measured degree of constriction at the end of the shotgun which “chokes” the spread of the pellets thus reducing the diameter of the pellet pattern. For skeet shooting, you need to make sure that you have a very open choke. The two most typical chokes used for the purpose of skeet shooting are cylinder (a tighter pattern) and skeet chokes (a wider pattern).The restrictions are 0,000mm and 0,125mm respectively.

Pulsar NV Phantom 3x50

The reason for this is that the pellets in an open choke will have a greater distance in between them and you will have more chances of hitting your target. Because the target is not far off, the pellets will reach the target before it continues to diverge further away from each other as the distance grows. Some people who enjoy skeet shooting, without the sport being a main priority for them, may not want to or cannot afford to purchase a separate gun for each sporting event, etc. ›

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The Phantom takes into account all the requirements for modern night hunting.

Utilising a military-style design and offering maximum functionality, the Phantom is an obvious choice for anyone who demands the highest quality and impeccable reliability. It is fully weatherproofed, thanks to a nitrogen filled optical channel and waterproofing to IPX6, and can be used anywhere. Arctic ice

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fields or desert sands, humid tropical forests or harsh Siberian taiga – the Phantom is ready to do its job regardless of weather conditions.

The body of the Phantom is made of highly durable glass-filled plastic. The bodyshell design and high grade intensifier tubes ensure shock proofing to heavy calibres, including 9.3x62, 9.3x74 and 375H&H. The Gen 2+ tube has Automatic Brightness Control (ABC)

and, coupled with the high quality, wideaperture lens, provides a sharp and clear picture. The high light gain, combined with the built-in IR - Illuminator, allows hunting even in situations of critically low night illumination (down to 10-4 lx – overcast starlight). The fast start-up function (the sight is “On” only while pressing a button) is very useful for making quick assessments. The problem

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32 22 news hunt

• IWA & Outdoor Classics

• MP3 International

• Outdoor Lebanon

for generations

• Redfield - Raider™550

• Bear Grylls - Survival Series at IWA 2011

• Things to keep in mind while buying

your Skeet gun!

• There’s Magic In MOJO

• Ameristep -Redefining quality time

®

• Leupold - RCX™ Trail Camera System • Raffaello Lord cal 20 - Astonish with style

44 air guns

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Yukon Advanced Optics Worldwide is one of the leading manufacturers of optical products, night vision, synergies of electronics and optical devices and accessories.

• Stoeger X20 Suppressor • Daystate - There are changes in the Air

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52 scopes

• Swarovski Optik - Brightening up the twilight • Pulsar NV Phantom 3x50

58 hunting knives

• Spyderco - Crafted for Life

60 hunting dogs

• SportDog Tracker® Hunting Experience

66 go hunting with Jeep 76 historical weapons

• • • •

The 1911 Colt 45 M-16 - When Does a Battle Rifle The Turkish Mausers Ithaca Auto &Burglar Gun

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exclusive interview

Insights from the Digiscoper Chairman of Swarovski Optik, Mr. Johannes Davoras meets with H&S and speaks about the past, present and future of the corporation as well as the Gulf Region.

hunting tools

Here in the Gulf, our main interest is service after sales. What can Swarovski provide us in terms of the service after sale strategy in the region?

Since its establishment by Wilhelm Swarovski, in 1949, Swarovski Optik has stood for long-range optics of the highest precision, identifiable by the simple but elegant design which speaks of noble restraint and conceals its technical secret inside.

First of all, our goal is to provide a seeming less customer service to both dealer partners and enthusiasts. This means that if there is an issue or an amendment to the product, it would be carried out very quickly from the area to the main service center and back. Our employees are also available for a good piece of advice if required by the customer.

Could you please explain your sales strategies, especially towards the Gulf Region?

What will be your new strategy or approach with regards to launching new products in the region?

Our sales strategies prominently rely on personal relationships in order to provide extensive customer service and also to keep our presence on the market as close as possible. We have direct distribution companies in most of Europe, hence, in comparison to our competitors; we are a decisive step closer to the customer and our dealer partners.

We changed our innovation pace quite a bit recently. In the past six or seven years, our corporation launched one product every one or two years. We then decided to accelerate the pace of innovation worldwide by investing in quite huge amounts in our factory and head office. We then accelerated our pace nowadays to 3 - 4 products a year. This means 2 entirely new products plus 2-3 model upgrades. This is our present pace which is quite high. If you look at it from the market’s point of view, there is no difference between the innovation of an entirely new product or

As for the Gulf region, we have the plan and we are in the middle of executing it.

Till date, we have around 8 partners in the region spread around the countries. First, we are working on extending our marketing capture in various areas. Today, the main focus is hunting while the second segment leans towards institutional business, agencies, and law enforcement units and so on. The third approach which will reveal itself at a little later stage will focus on the public market in order to attract potential partners and customers mainly for our observation products such as binoculars.

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Mr. Hisham Sawaya of H&S & Mr. Johannes Davoras of Swarovski Optik

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a model upgrade. It is the same effort and it takes some time to get the message through to all the dealers. For example, in Europe, if I count all of our dealers, the total is around 5,500 dealer partners so clearly you can imagine that the message does take a good amount of time to get through to all of them when a new innovation is being launched. This concern is certainly also a challenge in the Gulf Region and it is a steep way and strong task for our employees in the Gulf. Training is also an important issue along with events for presenting new products. When launching products, we try to feature them with live events.

Usually, quality is always synonymous with leadership. How can you integrate Swarovski Optik with quality and leadership?

In many industries, you will find lots of companies that claim to be a leader in quality.

However, there is a kind of difference in Swarovski Optik. The quality consciousness in our company is quite genetic. Swarovski Optik dates back to 1949 and there has always been a quality leadership and consciousness which was handed down from one generation to the next. Therefore in contrast to other corporations where you have to inject some quality consciousness very often, we do not

A Hunter’s Helpers

have to do it because it is a genetic attempt of everybody as it is our culture which is a very important point. With the word quality, we mean pushing the scientific limits in optical products as far as we can and providing the highest quality standards in serial production.

Quality consciousness in detail means up to 140 steps of quality control in some products.

There are a lot of human factors involved. We are certainly checking quality with technical tools but there is a lot of man power involved therefore no product leaves our factory without being thoroughly checked both by technical tools as well as by quite experienced people who have a sharp eye and a great deal of vision in optics. This process brings us to about 100% reliability.

At the moment, we are quite satisfied with our improvements in the region; however we do indeed have ambitions to further and develop our presence in the Gulf. If we compare ourselves to our competitors, I believe our presence and strategies are quite right.

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Tree Stands Tree stands are either open or enclosed platforms that are secured to trees in order to elevate hunters and give them a better vantage point. Tree stands definitely give hunters an advantage as they sit up in a tree.

There are three different types of Tree stands that are used by hunters and these include a climbing stand, ladder stand and a hanging stand.

1. Climbing Stand - Two parts make up climbing stands. The bottom part is the standing platform and the top is the seat. Not all the top parts have backs for the seats. There is normally a strap that connects the two parts, so if the bottom falls while in the tree or climbing, the platform doesn’t fall all the way to the ground stranding the hunter. Only trees that have no limbs up to the height desired for hunting will work.

In the Gulf, why must a hunter buy a Swarovski Optik product?

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When a hunter goes out into the wild, there are many devices and accessories that he or she takes along in order to turn the entire experience into a complete success. Some of these devices and accessories include tree stands and hunting blinds. In this article, we are going to cover the basics about what these two really are and the different types available.

This allows them to see over intervening brush and vegetation that might otherwise block the hunter’s view of approaching game.

The most popular animals to hunt, using a tree stand is deer.

Quality consciousness to us means delivering a long lasting product, preserving values and the promise that if you buy a Swarovski Optik product, you can be sure that ten years later, it will still hold a good value.

I think a hunter would buy Swarovski because they want reliability. They want to be sure that they have the best equipment on hand which supplies good aid in technical functionality while not taking every personal skill away.

We believe in emotionally challenging oneself while hunting hence we make sure to provide great technical functionality while still allowing the hunter to make use of his own vast skill abilities. ›

outdoor adventure

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Climbing tree stands have a couple of different styles to connect to the tree.

The part that wraps around the tree can be made from a thick cable or boomerang shaped piece of metal. The part that wraps around the tree is fastened to the stand with a bolt or pin for easy adjustment for different tree sizes.

John

Before climbing the tree, both parts need to be adjusted to the tree so they are level for the hunter to stand and sit on. To climb the tree, the back of each part is angled to the tree one at a time and pulled up.

Then the part that the hunter is moving is set back level and the next part is moved up.

This is done until the

Banovich

The Artist of the Wild

hunter is at the desired height. For safety some hunters strap the tree stand to the tree. To go down, the hunter does the same as climbing up except goes down.

John Banovich joins the rank of artists who, through their desire to understand the fascinating world of animals, have been compelled to capture their likeness through personal artistic expression. Banovich is among the most renowned international wildlife artists, specializing in large oil paintings of animals from around the world. He studied art and zoology at the University of Montana and holds a degree from the Art Institute of

2. Ladder Stand - Ladder stands are stands with a seat and platform along with the ladder to climb up in to the stand. A ladder stand has a seat and platform that connects to the tree with the ladder coming off the front of the platform to give the hunter access to the stand.

Ladder stands are stationary because of the size and lack of ability to move through the woods quietly. Stability is good because of the connection to the tree and support from the ground. Hunters can use one and two person ladder stands.

3. Hanging Stand - Hanging stands resemble ladder stands without the ladder, and the hanging stand is also stationary.

Hanging stands connect to the tree which chains or cables at the desired height. To get up to a hanging stand, hunters use ladders or sections of ladders secured to

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the tree, or they use screw in steps that screw in the tree and allow the hunter to climb up to the stand. ›

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Seattle in Visual Communication. His original oil paintings are owned and exhibited by corporate organizations including; Tudor Investments and The American Patriot Group as well as national museums including: The Wildlife Experience, Hiram Blauvelt, National Cowboy Hall of Fame The National Museum of Wildlife Art and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.

Following in the tradition of the late 19th and early 20th century conservationist and wildlife artist Carl Runguis, Banovich was similarly raised as a sportsman and wildlife enthusiast. His experiences of hunting and exploration gave him direct access to wildlife and an intimate understanding of animal anatomy which found full expression in his art. John Banovich’s style and approach are well grounded in the realist tradition, demonstrating great technical skill and creative vision compelling the viewer to see the beauty, uniqueness, and power of wildlife together with the elements of compassion and respect.

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Banovich is on the board of the Society of Animal Artists, and the Board of The Craighead Environmental Research Institute, a featured judge for The Artist’s Magazine and is Master Artist - teaching workshops internationally. He also founded the Wildscapes Foundation, which fosters cooperative efforts to conserve the earth’s wild places to benefi t the wildlife and the people that live there, raising millions of dollars for conversation and humanitarian causes. Banovich is an award winning artist who hopes that his art will inspire people to protect wildlife and ensure its survivial.

Among today’s genre of wildlife artists, John Banovich is regarded as one of the best.

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60 90 exclusive interview

• Chairman of Swarovski Optik Mr. Johannes Davoras Insights from the Digiscoper • Interview with Mr. Paul Saghbini International Hunter

98 hunting season

• The Hunt in Iceland - Goose Hunting • The Hunt in Turkey - Wild Boar

100 big game hunting

• Moose Hunting In My Country, Sweden

104 gunmaker legacies

• 260 years of Sauer&Sohn • SKB / Miroku - Japanese Manufacturing

112 cartridge legacies

• Winchester - Power Max Bonded™

John Banovich’s style and approach are well grounded in the realist tradition, demonstrating great technical skill and creative vision compelling the viewer to see the beauty, uniqueness, and power of wildlife together with the elements of compassion and respect.

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120 114 hunting in luxury

• Land Rover LR4

120 hunter's lodge

• Tuscany’s Charm - Castello di Vicarello • In the wilderness of Namibia

124 hunting clothes

• Deerhunter Outdoor Clothing

130 hunting tools

• Summit - A Hunter’s Helpers • Walkstool - The Stool That Walks

136 artist of the wild

• Cemmick & Wylder • John Banovich

140 cook your hunt 144 directory h&s Issue 05 l May 2011

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news hunt

IWA & Outdoor Classics

2011 Sets New Records

IWA & OutdoorClassics was impressive again in every respect. At the 38th event from 11-14 March 2011, 1,166 exhibitors showed a broad spectrum of products and services in seven fully booked exhibition halls. Three-quarters of the exhibitors came to Nürnberg from abroad. IWA & OutdoorClassics 2011 also set a new record for visitors: 35,220 trade visitors, more than 60 percent of them from over 100 countries throughout the world, used the opportunity to cultivate existing business connections and make new ones.

In slightly less than four decades, the former product show for the retail gun trade and gunsmiths has developed into the world’s leading exhibition for hunting and sporting guns, outdoor activities and security. Besides the gun and ammunition segment, the event presents the entire range of products for experiencing nature, such as hiking, animal watching and archery equipment.

The spectrum of products for police and bodyguards has also grown strongly: Nürnberg presents everything for service guns and operational equipment - from bullet-proof vests, functional clothing, holsters and bags to products for personal and body protection.

In addition, more than 600 international law enforcement specialists met in the exhibition centre the day before the exhibition at the European Policetrainer Conference and the Police Management Academy Conference.

IWA & OutdoorClassics 2012 The next IWA & OutdoorClassics takes place in the Exhibition Centre Nuremberg from 9-12 March 2012.

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MP3

International Takes aim at bigger targets at IDEX MP3 INTERNATIONAL is making a strong mark at IDEX 2011 in terms Of technological innovation in military hardware, Which it develops for military and commercial operations.

This is the third showing of MP3 International at IDEX, year after year MP3 International have Increasing interest and growing demand From the visitors and key persons. MP3 International Keen to participate in IDEX exhibitions as and it provides the perfect for companies like us to reach maximum number of potential clients ›

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news hunt

This year, they have three main attractions.

The most prominent is the VIP car, Built to provide 100 % safety and protection. The vehicle is manufactured to provide a level of resistance against modern day weaponry and technology incorporated into assault rifles. This could also involve the use of hand grenades and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED’s) typically used in urban warfare or kidnapping attempts by terrorist or criminal elements. A Vehicle Resistance (VR) level will allow the occupants adequate time and opportunity to escape and survive a planned attack. These vehicles are manufactured in Germany by STOOF “Automotive security Technology” which is one of the earliest means of transportations. They have thoroughly tested it, shooting and bombing it almost 400 times, with Perfect results pointing to the showpiece in the stand. The vehicle Can withstand impact of bullets bombs (from top and bottom) and mines.

The second feature is the non lethal technologies reads like this: Weapons and ammunitions specially designed and primarily used to incapacitate people without causing deaths or permanent injuries, as well as neutralize materials without causing damage to other assets or the environment.

This products are provide by NST from Germany, NST products are developed for the different ranges and number of people involved. Products to be used indoor in rooms or outdoor from 5 m to 150 m effective range. The irritation to stun the attacking party reaches from one bang 170 db over

multiple bang to long-lasting effects (up to 20 sec) like extremely loud whistle or strobe lights with millions of candle power on each flash.

NST Stungrenade product range Side, Bottom and Bottom Vent Ejektion Systems: The side vent design offers effective flash and bang features.

The design allows the special forces to adopt modularly more bangs and / or other destructing effects like CS teargas, smoke, or even strobe light. The variation matrix is unlimited. The bottom vent design is safe to use and offers single bang up to 175 dB and whistles.

The B.O.N.D. System: NST offers the new Active Vehicle Protection System B.O.N.D. for armored and unarmored SUV or VIP limousines as well as light armored vehicles.

The system is installed covertly and is fired from an inside control unit.

Screening- and colored smokes and signal cartridges: in the calibers 1 and 1.5 inch for illuminating and signaling Simulation devices for the intensive, realistic training of

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units to get prepared for the missions like Thunder flash, airbursts round up the non lethal programmed of NST. Explosives detection the Xdetect: The laser operating system recognizes particles of explosives with a diagnosis success rate of 100 % . The device is portable and usable for missions without recharging for up to 6 hours ATC Realistic and effective Training for all units: Training courses not only around NST products but also to be prepared for the missions. The proven T-S-P method guarantees success with its combination of 20% theory, 30 % simulation and 50 % realistic Practice.

The potentially most attractive item this

year for militaries and special squads is MP3 International’s innovative SNIPER RIFLE in caliber 338 Lapua Mag. At 6kg weight, for one thing it is exceptionally light for a sniper weapon. It’s most unprecedented aspect is semi-automatic feature, with magazine capacity 10-rounds, and a kill range of two kilometers. Its unmatched attributes make it Ideal for Special Forces outfi ts in militaries.

Lighter weight, time-saving via re-loadability and accuracy provide perfection with regard to sniper shooting. We expect this exhibit to register very strongly with interested Parties.

Innovative technology of this kind finds the ideal forum at IDEX, which is why the company repeatedly refers to the exhibition as one of the most. Significant of its kind.

Without such platforms, reaching out for

military and commercial. Purposes would be infinitely harder, and the reach achievable in a matter of days would take many months. The company has also noticed an easing out of the recession in terms of commercial Sector sales, which seem picking up since the time of the last IDEX show two years ago.

If you require any further information about MP3 International products, please do not hesitate to contact them directly.

MP3 International U.A.E - ABU DHABI Al Butheen P.O Box (60613) Tel :( +971) 26679798 Fax :( +971) 26679970 Email: mp3intl@mp3group.ae

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news hunt

Outdoor Lebanon

The fi rst exhibition of its kind in Lebanon and the Middle East Joins the large events series organized by IFP

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Lebanon has recently witnessed a real development in the tourism sector with a 39% increase in terms of tourists’ number in 2010, the highest growth rate worldwide. Outdoor activities and sports have become the focal point of many tourists and visitors, especially given Lebanon’s moderate climate and natural sceneries. On one hand, Lebanese mountain resorts host annually a large number of Arab tourists who enjoy skiing and several other winter sports. On another hand, the summer season covers each and every type of water sports and activities from diving to fishing and swimming, etc. Besides, plate shooting, camping, and trekking have become a traditional summer activities across Lebanon.

Over the past few years, internationallyrecognized sports were introduced to Lebanon such as ATV driving, bungee jumping, paragliding, kayaking, and jet skiing, as well as other extreme sports, which were wellreceived by the Lebanese.

In order to boost these types of natural activities, encourage national tourism, and introduce several outdoor sports to young amateurs, IFP decided to organize “Outdoor Lebanon 2011.” This international fair will be the first of its kind for recreational activities

and outdoor sports in Lebanon and the Middle East, and will take place from June 22 to June 26, 2011, at Beirut International Exhibition & Leisure Center (BIEL).

“Outdoor Lebanon” will host specialized companies showcasing exclusive equipment, tools and outfi ts such as fishing, camping, diving, and biking, among others, as well as water, land, and air sports and activity material, all essential for the summer tourist or visitor.

IFP has chosen to make this summer event a truly fun experience for the entire family by organizing several activities such as plate shooting, mountain climbing, trekking, sports competitions, and other carefully designed activities to satisfy all ages and tastes.

Moreover, engine sports amateurs will find a large space at the fair dedicated to motorcycles, ATV, jet skiing, and the like.

Organizers will design special adventures and never-witnessed-before activities such as biking and ATV driving on mountain tracks.

Outdoor Lebanon 2011 is a not-to-be-missed exhibition promising to be a stunning event where fun and recreation merge with zeal and delight.

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Ameristep

Redefi ning quality time for generations

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AMERISTEP® Unleashes The Carnivore Ground Blind Featuring NEW poly cotton outer shell technology AMERISTEP® has extended its innovative design and manufacturing excellence to the newest hub-style blind - The Carnivore™ Ground Blind. The Carnivore Ground Blind features Ameristep’s NEW and exclusive POLY-COTTON outer shell for reduced noise and sheen.

“No glaring, no animals flaring - we are filling our tags with the NEW Ameristep Carnivore Blind!” - Ralph Cianciarulo.

When developing the Carnivore as one of the quietest most durable ground blinds in the field, Ameristep has introduced an industry leading technology with a proprietary cotton to poly ratio in the outer shell. The heavy duty Spider Hub Technology combined with solid glass rod framework creates the ultimate in durability from the inside out for fast and easy set-up and take-down. The Carnivore’s exterior is UV protected providing greater concealment and longer life in the field. ›

• Durable poly-cotton outer shell reduces noise and sheen.

• Dual window system - 180° viewing and magnetic shooting windows.

• Ground skirt helps keep elements and light out and scent in.

Features include: • Durable poly-cotton outer shell reduces noise and sheen • Custom backpack with dual side straps for gear and bow/gun carrying attachment • Dual window system – 180° viewing and magnetic shooting windows • Ground skirt helps keep elements and light out and scent in Custom backpack with dual side straps for gear and bow/ gun carrying attachment

• Noise free window system • Dimensions: 74” shooting width x 67” tall • Pack size: 9” wide x 47” long • Weighs: 22 lbs.

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AMERISTEP® Introduces the NEW! All Pro Chair Blind Model No. 2401/2400 CLIO, MI - AMERISTEP® is proud to add to their line of ground blinds. AMERISTEP has extended its innovative design and manufacturing excellence to the NEW One-Man CHAIR BLIND. The AMERISTEP® Chair Blind is perfect for hunters who want to add a new dimension to their hunting experience. The Chair Blind’s cutting edge design is ultra compact, lightweight and durable with weather resistant Durashell fabric. The low profile design provides the ultimate concealment and protection without sacrificing comfort. The Chair Blind has zippered side panels and a large front zippered panel for unobstructed shooting and maximum visibility. The Chair Blind requires no assembly making set up quick and easy. In less than 10 seconds you are able to set up and take down the Chair Blind at your destination and quickly move on to your next spot. Included with the One-Man Chair Blind is a carrying case with shoulder strap for convenient transport.

The Chair Blind is available in AMERISTEP® Tangle ® 2.0 Camo.

Other features of the All Pro Chair Blind™Include: • Large front window with porthole and side zippered • Custom carry system for easy transport • Chair dimensions- 23” wide x 19” deep x 35” tall • Pack dimensions- 33” x 35” x 6” • Weight is 15 lbs • Rated for 250 lbs • 6 windows

Setup blind in just 3 easy steps

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• Large front window with porthole and side zippered windows • Custom carry system for easy transport

• 3-D leaf and mesh construction • Shoulder strap for easy carrying • Stakes and high-wind tie-downs included

AMERISTEP® Turkey Blinds 3-D Spur Blind AMERISTEP® has extended its innovative design and manufacturing excellence to the NEW! 3-D Spur Blind. Blend into any area with the 3-D leaf and mesh construction. Created with the input of many hunters, the blind has been designed to be compact for easy transportability and with features that will make your next turkey hunt very enjoyable. The 3-D Spur Blind is an easyto-transport and easy-to-set-up blind offering portable concealment in the field. Use the NEW! Ameristep 3-D Poncho with the 3-D Spur Blind for maximum concealment.

3-D SPUR BLIND features are: • Quiet, weatherproof and wear-resistant NS3 fabric • Stakes and high-wind tie downs included • Blind dimensions: 96” long x 27” tall • Pack dimensions: 3” x 33” long • Weighs 2 lbs.

• Available in Realtree ® APG HD™ Camo

• Die-cut 3-D leaf pattern • Pictured in Ameristep’s Tangle ® 2.0 camo pattern

AMERISTEP® Turkey Blinds 3-D Poncho CLIO, MI - AMERISTEP® has extended its innovative design and manufacturing excellence to the NEW! 3-D Poncho. The cutting edge three dimensional design allows the hunter to add a completely new level and dimension to their everyday hunting experience.

This premier 3-D leafy/mesh material is comprised of high quality, wearresistant NS3 MICRO-TECH fabric. The multi-dimensional leaf and mesh/ fabric construction will allow you to blend into your hunting environment with an unmatched magnitude of depth. If versatility is what you are after then Ameristep’s line of 3D Ponchos are perfect-allowing you to blend into any terrain! The Ponchos are available in Realtree ® APG HD™, Realtree ® Advantage ® Max-4™, and Ameristep ® Snow Tangle ® camo and available exclusively from AMERISTEP®.

• Blend into any terrain • Great for turkey and varmint hunting 3 D PONCHO - Features/benefits are • Great for turkey and varmint hunting • Lightweight and breathable • One size fi ts all • Weighs: 3 lbs.

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Redfi eld Raider™550 ®

Digital Laser Rangefi nder

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BEAVERTON, Ore. - Redfield’s® new line of optics includes Raider™ 550 digital laser rangefinders for price-conscious hunters and shooters seeking accurate, dependable ranging performance in a compact size.

Measuring 3.7 inches long and weighing less than five ounces, the Raider 550 rangefinder is easily carried in a shirt pocket. It provides reliable, straight-line distance measurements out to 550 yards on reflective targets.

“Whether you’re bowhunting deer at close range or shooting prairie dogs at a distance, our new Raider 550 rangefinder is a handy tool for quickly gaining the precise distance measurement necessary for accurate shot placement,” commented Mike Slack, Redfield’s marketing communications manager.

“The Raider’s commonly affordable price will also hit the mark with many customers seeking a great value.”

Available in black or Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity™ camo, Raider 550 rangefinders carry manufacturer’s suggested retail prices of $169.99 and $179.99 respectively. Each has 6x magnification and a fully multicoated lens system for a bright, pristine image. ®

®

Key features also include a scan mode that allows users to search at a distance for a moving object, then follow it. CR-2 lithium camera batteries power the unit and are easy to change in the field.

Other specifications: minimum range, six yards; close focus distance, 19.8 feet; linear field of view at 1,000 yards, 325 feet. Raider 550 rangefinders are covered by the Redfield

Specifications Limited Lifetime Warranty. For more information, go to www.redfield.com.

Actual Magnification

6x

Linear Field of View (ft @ 1000yd)

325.0

Acquired by Leupold & Stevens, Inc. in 2008, Redfield is now a brand of the Oregonbased company. In addition to Raider 550 rangefinders, the Redfield line includes Revolution™ riflescopes, Rebel™ roof prism and Renegade™ Porro prism binoculars, and a Rampage™ spotting scope kit. The Redfield Gun Sight Company was founded in 1909 by John Hill Redfield. Over the years, Redfield became one of the leading American manufacturers of sports optics, known for the performance, ruggedness and reliability of its products. The new Redfield line upholds that tradition and is available to hunters, shooters, wildlife observers and other outdoor enthusiasts worldwide in 2011.

Linear Field of View (m @ 1000m)

100.0

Angular Field of View (degrees)

6.0

Max Range (yds)

550

Max Range (m)

503

Weight (ounces)

5.0

Weight (grams)

139.7

Length (in)

3.7

Length (mm)

95

Objective Aperture (mm)

20

Twilight Factor

11.0

Exit Pupil (mm)

3.3

Eye Relief (mm)

12

Close Focus Distance (ft.)

3.8

Close Focus Distance (m)

1.2

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Leupold

®

Get the Picture With Leupold’s New Innovative, User-Friendly

®

RCX™ Trail Camera System

camera. A feature exclusive to Leupold, the hand-held USB Controller/Viewer has a three-inch display screen and can be used to download and view images from the camera on the spot, eliminating the need to remove photo/SD cards and check them at another location. With the controller/viewer, the user can also get real-time alignment of the camera’s view and instant access to all program settings, without opening the camera or removing it from the mount.

“We call our new RCX Trail Camera System a game changer for whitetail deer hunters and others interested in patterning animals,” said Pat Mundy, communications manager for Leupold & Stevens, Inc.

BEAVERTON, Ore. - Hunters, picture this: Leupold ® now offers a trail camera system featuring innovative “plug and play” technology that simplifies the process of taking and retrieving images of game in the field. The new RCX™ Trail Camera System is not only designed for easy use, but for capturing high-

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quality images in the places that can help swing the odds in a hunter’s favor.

Key components of the system include the USB Controller/Viewer and either a RCX-1 (eight megapixels) or RCX-2 (10 megapixels)

“It is the most user-friendly system of its kind, doing away with the hassles common to traditional trail cameras: manual resets, swapping photo/SD cards in and out, guessing on alignment of the sensor and framing of the picture, counting blinking lights, scrolling through confusing mode options, multiple trips to and from your home or truck to view the images, and so on. RCX is also extremely versatile, allowing users to choose how simple or advanced they want the system to be, according to their specifications.”

The USB Controller/Viewer plugs into the USB jack in each RCX camera, and also plugs into home computers

to download pictures and images to the hard drive. RCX cameras provide high-resolution color images during the day and infrared images at night, as well as a video/audio option. A special day/night sensor allows the camera to quickly adjust exposure as light levels change, and to activate the infrared system when darkness falls.

Both the RXC-1 and RXC-2 cameras have a 54-degree lens for a wide field of view, and offer 45 degrees of heat/motion sensing coverage to a maximum range of 45 feet. A feature unique to the RCX-2 camera is Dual Sensor Technology (DST™), which provides the option of 10 degrees of sensing coverage out to 90 feet. The user can choose to have the 45-degree sensor and the 10-degree sensor active at the same time.

Other key features include a silent digital shutter, “blink-of-an-eye” (less than one second) trigger speed to capture more complete images, and extremely fast recovery time - after taking a picture, the camera can recover and be ready to take another in two seconds or less, depending on setting. The system is designed to easily take the user through each program setting, step by step.

The RCX Trail Camera System offers many customizable features - image file type/size, picture quality, time lapse, operation hours and separate day/night settings, among others.

The RCX camera frame is constructed for durability and to provide maximum protection for the internal components. Each camera can operate continuously for months using eight AA lithium batteries; AA alkaline batteries work as well.

RCX cameras and the controller/viewer can be purchased separately or in kits. The RCX-

1 System Kit includes the camera, controller/ viewer, 12-volt cable, car adapter, home adapter, USB cable, AA battery pack cartridge tray (batteries not included), lithium-ion battery (for the controller/viewer), six hex standoffs for mounting and a mounting strap.

The RCX-2 System Kit offers the same items, plus a lock-down security plate and screws.

For more information, visit a local dealer, go to www.leupold.com or call 1-800-LEUPOLD. Leupold & Stevens, Inc., the preeminent American-owned and -operated optics company, employs more than 700 people in its state-of-the-art facility near Beaverton, Ore., where rugged, dependable, highperformance Golden Ring® optics, Mark 4® riflescopes and Redfield® Revolution™ riflescopes are designed, machined and assembled. Leupold is a fifth-generation, family owned company whose products

are sold worldwide to hunters, competitive shooters, American military warfighters, law enforcement personnel and wildlife observers.

The product line includes rifle, handgun and spotting scopes; binoculars; rangefinders; trail cameras; flashlights; mounting systems; and optical tools and accessories.

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Raffaello Lord cal 20 Astonish with style

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There has been a time when, with a few exceptions, a smooth barrel semi-automatic shotgun was considered a cold industrial product with no spirit or style. Benelli, while using technology as its winning hand, demonstrated that even “automatic” shotguns, in addition to being extremely practical, can also be “beautiful” as well as deserving of the attention and high quality manufacturing usually granted only to the finest break-action shotguns.

characterized by luxury finishing that donate to these weapons the subtle charm of élite items. Benelli’s weapons are born out of high technology, but even at first glance one can notice the passion with which they have been cared for right down to the tiniest detail: the lines, the style, the finishing, they all give to the weapon an elegant and exclusive look; a canvas on which Benelli paints masterpieces sometimes enriched by exquisite engraving and wood.

In fact, there are models, such as the Raffaello-based ones, that thanks to their perfect and stylish lines have become high class, unrivalled, and valuable products

In fact, up until now, a stylish shotgun was judged mostly by the quality of its engraving and wood types in addition to its finishing and materials. No one questions this as the

Aesthetic Appeal & Mechanical Excellence Excellent companions in the field, all three World Class Raffaello shotguns offer the combination of aesthetic appeal and mechanical excellence that defines fine Italian gun making. Long favorites with European hunters, the Raffaello series has now joined the World Class Collection available to American sportsmen. The Raffaello, Raffaello Deluxe and Raffaello Legacy each offer different levels of ornamentation and are fi tted with finely figured AA- or AAA-Grade European walnut.

reference format for a fine shotgun, but is this the only path available to create a beautiful and stylish shotgun? At Benelli we think outside the box and we reached the conclusion that we would search new design solutions by asking ourselves a first essential question: what is elegance? Elegance is style, conscious refinement, without excess.

Good taste, class, often times depend on focusing on the essence and attention to each and every detail. True elegance is never ostentatious, but it is sober and sobriety is not renunciation but rather the ability to choose what is necessary both from a practical and aesthetic point of view, avoiding the useless.

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Bear Grylls Survival Series at IWA 2011

Expert Survivor. Extreme Gear. Collaborating To Create The World’s Ultimate Survival Gear.

Outdoor Survival expert Bear Grylls who is famous for a string of popular television series and personal achievements in his former British SAS career has teamed up with multi-tool and gear specialist Gerber to create the ultimate survival range for the outdoors.

From his time in the British SAS, to scaling Mount Everest (at 23 he was the youngest Brit to reach the summit), to hosting his survival television series internationally, Bear knows what it takes to be a survivor in extreme situations.

“Bear, like Gerber, stands for adventure, freedom and self-reliance,” said Jason Landmark, Gerber president. “Bear has a unique ability to reach and connect with audiences around the world and we’re truly excited about the possibilities this partnership brings.” Grylls is working directly with Gerber product development teams on new products, technical specs and key features of co-branded products and the first range of these launches March 2011.

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“I’m incredibly excited and honoured to partner with Gerber, a market leader for over seventy years,” stated Grylls.

“I’m looking forward to translating my experience into a line of products that will help empower people to get out there and live their adventures.”

Bear Grylls Survival Series is meticulously designed

by Gerber and Bear to offer a multitude of uses in any unforgiving environment.

Please see below details of a selection of products from the range all of which can be viewed on our dedicated Gerber Bear Grylls Survival Series website: www.gerbergear.com. Be sure to check it out as Bear gives useful tips on surviving in the extreme outdoors. ›

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Ultimate Knife™ Knife Features: • ½ Serrated High Carbon Stainless.

• Steel Drop Point Blade - Ideal for edge retention and cutting rope.

• Ergonomic Textured Rubber Grip - Maximizes comfort and reduces slippage.

• Stainless Steel Pommel - At base of handle for hammering.

• Emergency Whistle - Integrated into lanyard cord Sheath Features: • Fire Starter - Ferrocerium rod locks into sheath, striker notch incorporated into back of knife blade • Nylon Sheath - Lightweight, military-grade, mildew resistant • Land to air rescue instructions • Diamond Sharpener - Integrated into sheath for onthe- go sharpening • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Open Length: 25.4 cm / Blade Length: 12.2 cm / Weight (with sheath): 390 g / Weight (no sheath): 245 g Bear’s Comments: “A super grippy handle is essential in the wild.” A rugged sheath keeps

your knife at the ready.” “Hopefully you never need my Priorities of Survival, but if you do, it will be there for you when you need it most.”

Compact Scout™ Scout™ Knife Features: • Thin and lightweight Folding Knife • ½ Serrated High Carbon Stainless Steel Drop Point Blade - Ideal for edge retention and cutting rope • Dual-Sided Thumb Stud - For easy single-hand opening • Ergonomic Textured Rubber Grip Maximizes comfort and reduces slippage • Lock Back - Locks blade securely in place and maximizes safety during closing • Clip for convenient pocket carry • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Open Length: 18.5 cm / Closed Length: 10.2 cm Blade Length 8.4 cm / Weight: 68 g Bear’s Comments: “Grippy to hold, it is going

to stay in your hand when you need it.”

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Knife Features: • Thin and lightweight Folding Knife • ½ Serrated High Carbon Stainless Steel Drop Point Blade - Ideal for edge retention and cutting rope • Nail nick in blade for easy opening • Lock Back - Locks blade securely in place and maximizes safety during closing • Oversized finger notch in handle to minimize slipping • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Open Length: 14.7 cm / Closed Length: 8.4 cm / Blade Length 6.4 cm / Weight: 25 g Bear’s Comments: “Light and compact, I always tuck one away

in my pocket, just in case.”

Folding Sheath Knife™ Knife Features: • ½ Serrated High Carbon Stainless Steel Drop Point Blade - Ideal for edge retention and cutting rope • Dual-Sided Thumb Stud - For easy single-hand opening • Ergonomic Textured Rubber Grip - Maximizes comfort and reduces slippage • Lock Back - Locks blade securely in place and maximizes safety during closing • Nylon sheath - Lightweight, military-grade, mildew resistant Sheath allows for horizontal or vertical carry • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Open Length: 21.6 cm / Closed Length: 12.4 cm / Blade Length 9,1 cm / Weight with sheath 151 g Without 122 g Bear’s Comments: “A serious blade, yet compact and foldable to be tucked out of the way.” “The

heavy duty stainless steel serrated edge blade is perfect for the wild. A super grippy handle ensures a sure grip.”

Ultimate Multi-Tool™ Features: 12 Stainless Steel, Weather-Resistant Components such as; Needle Nose Pliers, Fine Edge Knife, Serrated Knife, Saw Phillips Screwdriver, Small Flat Driver, Medium Flat Driver, Lanyard Ring, Bottle Opener, Can Opener, Scissors & Wire Cutters.

• Ergonomic Textured Rubber Grip - Maximizes comfort and reduces slippage • Spring loaded jaw for simplified single-hand use • External components for easy access • Patented Safe.T.Plus™ System - Enhanced safety by locking components into usage position • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials • Nylon Sheath - Lightweight, military-grade, mildew resistant • Includes Land to air rescue instructions • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essential

Specs: Open Length: 16 cm / Closed Length: 10.2 cm / Weight 270 g Bear’s Comments: “External tools for easy access in

the wild. Spring loaded pliers make is super easy to use.” ›

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Compact Multi-Tool™ Features: 10 Components such as; Needle Nose Pliers, Wire Cutters, Fine Edge Knife, Serrated Knife, Phillips Screwdriver, Small Flat Driver, Medium Flat Driver, Lanyard Ring, Bottle Opener & Tweezers.

• Compact and Lightweight - Fits on keychain or in pocket • External components and nail nicks for easy access • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Open Length: 10.9 cm / Closed Length: 6.4 cm / Weight: 98 g Bear’s Comments: “Small enough to put in your pocket and forget about it, so it is

there for you when you need it. Two full size blades in a tiny package is a big plus.”

Ultimate Kit™ Features: 15 Piece Kit including; Gerber Miniature Multi-tool, Survival Blanket, Waterproof Bag, Miniature Light, Emergency Cord, Fire Starter, Waxed Thread, Waterproof Matches, Fishing Kit, Hand Saw, Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder, Sewing Kit, Signaling Mirror, Snare Wire • Lightweight, ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zipper • Land to air rescue and SOS instructions • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Bear’s Comments:

“One of those kits you take when you know you are going somewhere hostile. Everything you need to survive the toughest environments.”

Basic Kit™ Features: 8 Piece Kit including; Waterproof Bag Gerber Mini- Paraframe Knife, Emergency Whistle, Fire Starter, Waterproof Matches, Snare Wire, Emergency Cord, Cotton Ball - Fire Tinder • Lightweight, ripstop nylon bag with waterproof zipper • Land to air rescue instructions • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Bear’s Comments: “Stick it in your rucksack and hope you never

need to use it. There for you when you need it, it can save your life.”

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Parang™

Fire Starter™ Features: • Compact fire starter with ferrocerium rod and metal striker • Lanyard to keep product secure and together • Emergency Whistle - Integrated into lanyard cord • Waterproof storage compartment for tinder • Land to air rescue instructions and SOS • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials

Features: • Angled Blade - Ideal for clearing branches • Robust High Carbon Steel Blade - Enhances strength, corrosion resistance and easy to sharpen • Full Tang Construction - Boosts durability • Ergonomic Textured Rubber Grip - Maximizes comfort and reduces slippage • Lanyard Cord - Acts as guard, enhancing grip security • Nylon Sheath - Lightweight, military-grade, mildew resistant • Includes land to air rescue and SOS instructions • Priorities of Survival - Pocket guide contains Bear’s survival essentials Specs: Overall length 49.5 cm Blade Length: 34.3 cm Weight (with sheath): 750 g Weight (no sheath): 560 g Bear’s Comments:

“Based on a design used by jungle tribesmen. The machete that I always take with me when I’m in the jungle.”

Specs: Length: 12.2 cm Weight: 74 g Bear’s Comments: “Creates a ton of sparks, a super useful

tool in the wild. Keep tinder in the cap to start fire in even the wettest of conditions.”

Included with every product: Priorities of Survival pocket guide: No matter how practiced the survivor, we can all find ourselves in a spot of trouble at times. When that happens, possessing the right knowledge and skills can be a real life saver. My Priorities of Survival pocket guide is loaded with survival basics to help you stay alive until you can be rescued or rescue yourself. Hopefully you never need to use it, but if you do, it will be there for you when you need it most. God’s speed.

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Things to

keep in mind while buying your

Skeet gun!

When buying a skeet-shooting gun, there are several factors that you must keep in mind. Firstly, you need to distinguish the purpose of the gun.

Will you be using it mainly for the sport of skeet or will you need a gun that is suitable for other disciplines, as well as skeet?

I know you must be pretty anxious, so let us dive straight into the differences, shall we? If you want to purchase a gun solely for the purpose of skeet, your best bet would be to get a 28 inch barrel gun as this will prove to be much faster and much easier to move around on the skeet range.

Skeet is shot on a semi-circular layout with clays thrown from high and low towers situated one at each end (Distance between the front face of the trap houses is 38.6 meters). Compared to other disciplines, the targets are relatively closer in terms of distance to the shooter. Therefore the lighter and quicker your gun is, the better

your score. Another important factor relies on the choke of your gun. The choke is a narrowing toward the muzzle in the bore of the gun. It is basically a measured degree of constriction at the end of the shotgun which “chokes� the spread of the pellets thus reducing the diameter of the pellet pattern. For skeet shooting, you need to make sure that you have a very open choke. The two most typical chokes used for the purpose of skeet shooting are cylinder and skeet chokes.

The restrictions are 0,000mm and 0,125mm respectively.

The reason for this is that the tighter the choke the tighter the pattern and as skeet is shot at relatively close range an open choke is preferable as the pattern will stay tight at short distances. If you are shooting skeet only then by all means get a dedicated skeet gun but if you intend to shoot other disciplines and do not want the expense of buying more than one gun, then go for a Sporter. ›

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Sporting guns will usually have a 28, 30, and a 31 inch barrel. You may either go for the 28 inch or the 30 inch barrel. These guns come with a multi-choke which is an interchangeable choke tube that screws into the end of muzzle. This allows the shooter to choose the degree of choke required, depending on the sport.

RECOMMENDS

Skeet is usually shot at around 20 yards range whilst other disciplines, the target may appear at 50 yards-plus therefore clearly, it can be seen that to have a multi-choke would be far more appropriate and handy for shooters that want to take on various sports with only one gun.

Beretta SO4 Sporting Multi-Choke

Conutry of origin: Type: Caliber: Capacity: Action: Operation:

RECOMMENDS

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Italy Over & Under 12 gauge 2 Sidelock Drop Down

Construction: Steel Barrel Length:

28 in (711 mm) with internally threaded multi-choke system

Length Overall: 46.75 in (1187 mm) Weight (empty): 7.75 lb (3.52 kg) Sights: Day glow type front bead

AYA Yeoman

Conutry of origin: Type: Caliber: Capacity: Action: Operation:

40

Also, note that a 30 inch barrel is available upon request for skeet guns. And there you have it - so first things first - you need to clarify the purpose of your gun with yourself!

Now that it’s out the way, let us take a look at some of the recommended guns.

Spain Over & Under 12 gauge 2 Standard Drop Down

Construction: Steel Barrel Length: 28 in (711 mm) Length Overall: 45.5 in (1130 mm) Weight (empty): 7.25 lb (3.29 kg) Sights: Brass bead

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There’s Magic

In MOJO

MOJO Outdoors is one of the world’s leading makers of motion decoys.

Photo by: Ed Godfrey

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The Company MOJO Outdoors began its life in the state of Louisiana, United States of America with the invention and development, by real hunters of the MOJO Mallard Spinning Wing Duck Decoy. The product went on to become a phenomenon in the world of duck hunting. With its realistic body, large and practically unstoppable direct drive motor, highly reflective aluminium wings and rugged, dependable operation, it quickly took the market, making the name MOJO synonymous with quality and success.

Because of the success of the phenomenal product, the company expanded and soon became MOJO Decoys. The company developed a complete line of motion decoys, which included several models of duck decoys, plus goose, dove, crow, owl and other such decoys.

The company and its products continued to shine with success and soon they became MOJO Outdoors with the expansion of their product line to bring outdoorsmen and women a broad line of quality products to make them more successful and comfortable in the great outdoors.

The Products Super MOJO Mallard - The new Super MOJO Mallard still has all the great top quality features that serious hunters demand as well as some new great features that make the Super MOJO impossible to resist to passing waterfowl and even more convenient for the hunter.

The Super MOJO Mallard features a new all aluminium construction folding wing in an offset posture. While spinning, the offset wing design is very realistic. The folding wing design makes deployment or pick-up of your decoy up to four times faster.

In addition, the Super MOJO Mallard has a built-in three position switch that allows the

user to select the off position, the continuous position, or the intermittent on/off position whereas the wings spin intermittently as it cycles through different on/off sequences.

Coupled with the offset design of the wing, it’s unlike anything hunters have seen before. It is very effective on late season ducks and is fully remote control compatible straight from the factory. It is definitely high quality.

MOJO Landing Goose – This product has a very realistic body with a removable head and feet for easy transport as well as a battery holder, external charging port and quick plug for MOJO remote capabilities. The MOJO Landing Goose comes with motorized decoy, wings and a three-piece support stand. It operates on an included 6-volt rechargeable battery.

MOJO Pigeon – Pigeon hunting is very popular in Europe and South America and is increasing in popularity in the States. The birds

are attracted to spinning wings just like doves and ducks. The MOJO style decoy is similar to the dove and duck decoys that include a full body pigeon, a direct drive system and support pole. It operates for up to 16 hours on 4 AA batteries.

MOJO Ghillie – The MOJO Blind Ghillie provides great camouflaging properties for permanent blinds, boat blinds, lay-down blinds, ground blinds, deer stands, turkey and predator set-ups, or dry field hunting. While the out of package color of the MOJO Blinds Ghillie is very good in most environments, the color of the Blind Ghillie is quickly and easily customized by darkening or making lighter by using paint and adding natural vegetation from the immediate environment . The older and more frayed and the more natural vegetation is entangled in the Blind Ghillie, the better it gets. Each sheet of MOJO Blind Ghillie covers 60” X 108”.

By: Ylova Hamdan

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43

air guns

Stoeger X20 Suppressor The latest innovation from Stoeger Airguns is the X20 Suppressor, which employs Air Flow Control (AFC) technology. The Dual-Stage Noise Reduction System™, designed by worldrenowned silencer designers Humbert CTTS, makes it the quietest airgun in its class.

Unlike other airgun manufacturers that utilize only sound dampening baffles, Stoeger's X20 Suppressor utilizes the Dual-Stage Noise Reduction System™. By combining the functions of an internal air-regulator ring and baffles that work in tandem, noise is reduced better that any other airgun on the market.

The air-regulator ring has four decompression holes that bleed off most of the compressed air before the pellet even enters the baffles.

The remaining compressed air dissipates throughout the baffles further reducing noise.

When tested in a certified anechoic chamber

by F-Squared Laboratories, an independent testing facility in USA, Stoeger's X20 Suppressor proved to be as much as 7.05 decibels quieter than the competition's "quiet" airguns.

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In velocity comparison tests the X20 Suppressor not only achieved the highest average velocity among the tested airguns, but also, produced the most consistent velocities, important for attaining optimum accuracy.

The X20 Suppressor comes with a quality

Stoeger 4x32 compact airgun scope with an illuminated reticle. The scope is factory mounted with rings that attach directly to an integral dove-tail located on the top of the receiver.

As part of the Beretta Group family of products, Stoeger Airguns benefi ts from advanced engineering, technology and the innovations that separates Stoeger's serious, precision-made airguns from the toys. The X20 Suppressor is a modern airgun with the look and feel of a quality sporting arm.

Specifications:

Model X20 Suppressor • Caliber 4,5 mm & 5,5 mm • Barrel Length 440 mm • Muzzle Velocity up to 305 m/s in 4,5 mm; up to 240 m/s in 5,5 mm • Trigger Two-stage; adjustable length of pull • Stock Black Synthetic Monte Carlo

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45

air guns

Daystate

There are changes in the Air

Computerised or Mechanical It’s Tomorrow’s Technology Today 46

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Pioneers of the modern-day precharged pneumatic (PCP), Daystate has built up a reputation across the shooting globe for being a highly innovative airgunmaker - and the current range of PCPs bears testimony to their engineering and design prowess.

From ground-breaking technology that uses computer power and electronics to a totally new concept in "mechanically-driven" performance.

Daystate’s MCT system has broken new ground in PCP airgun design

Daystate builds the finest, most advanced air rifles in the world today.Daystate’s latest computer-driven rifles - the Air Wolf and MK4 - utilises the highly advanced Map Compensated Technology (MCT). Based upon Capacitor Discharge Technology (CDT) - a system introduced with the Daystate MK3 and which uses a digital microprocessor to control a solenoid-powered air valve - MCT takes the performance of both rifle and shooter to a completely new level.

Using a series of algorithms pre-programmed into the operating system’s software, the rifle’s onboard computer monitors every microsecond of the firing cycle, precisely calculating the amount of time and distance the main firing valve needs to open in order

to ensure identical air release from one shot to the next.

This computerised control of the lock time continually regulates the rifle’s power output, from the first shot of its main air charge to the last, and completely eliminates any power ‘curve’ - the overall velocity shift across the charge that’s a common phenomenon on most unregulated PCPs. In effect, MCT is a highly-advanced, computerised air regulator.

Besides having no noticeable power curve, MCT also brings with it other significant benefi ts. Because it regulates the air release so precisely - and independently from one shot to the next - Daystate’s electronic models return an outstanding number of usable shots from one air charge.

Additionally, shot-to-shot velocity deviation is greatly reduced and, down-range, this extra consistency translates into improved accuracy - making full use of the superior build quality, ergonomic handling and specially-selected match-grade barrel that are a trademark of all Daystate’s PCP air rifles.

Daystate doesn’t confine its technological advances to computerdriven, electronic hardware. All the mechanically-driven PCPs in the current range feature the unique Harper Patent ‘slingshot’ hammer and valve set-up - a highly advanced system that improves the efficiency of the action to such an extent that it’s actually comparable with Daystate’s original MK3 supergun!

Heralded as a massive step forward in PCP airgun design, this innovative concept utilises principles of inertia to mimic the operation of a solenoid-powered valve hammer and,

therefore, eliminates the phenomenon known as ‘hammer bounce’ - a common problem on conventional PCPs where the valve constantly opens and closes after the main discharge, ‘wasting’ air long after the pellet has been accelerated up the bore.

But with the slingshot at its heart, a mechanically-driven Daystate delivers all the advantages of a computerised one - namely extremely efficient use of air, a very high number of shots per charge, a flat power curve, an ultra-fast firing cycle and a quiet muzzle discharge.

As ingenious and effective as the slingshot system is, it’s also remarkably simple and, therefore, incredibly reliable - one of the many reasons why Daystate is able to back-up its rifles with a three-year warranty.

The slingshot hammer is contained within a cage, both of which move forward under pressure from the mainspring when the trigger is released. By way of soft buffers, the cage’s forward motion is brought to a rapid halt, allowing the hammer within to carry on and strike open the main valve under inertia.

A pulse of high pressure air is released from the secondary air reservoir, driving the pellet along the bore.

Assisted by air pressure and a return spring, the open valve is immediately shut and the hammer moves rearwards - what would normally be the initial stages of a ‘bounce’.

However, an internal buffer within the cage absorbs most of the hammer’s kinetic energy and, aided by the anti-bounce spring, the hammer does not open the valve a second time. Result: no wasted air. ›

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air guns

Air Wolf MCT

GET RESULTS MORE EASILY The Air Wolf MCT... the ultimate in high-tech hunting air rifles that features the very latest in on-board refinements to make it easier than ever to achieve great shooting results.

This latest version of Daystate’s highly popular hunting and Hunter Field Target competition rifle now contains significant upgrades on former Air Wolf models. It includes Daystate’s patented Map Compensated Technology as well as a new LCD information screen to keep you informed on the exact status of your rifle.

Battery power for the electrical system is delivered courtesy of a Ni-MH (Nickel-metal Hydride) rechargeable battery that provides enough power for thousands of shots.

(Battery charger supplied.)

Internally, the Air Wolf MCT now features a new Harper Patent valve system for increased efficiency as well as a market-leading shot capacity. This also provides the potential for high power if required. Combined with the full length, sound-moderating barrel shroud, the patented electronic system makes the Air Wolf MCT a near-silent rifle to shoot in the field. Supplied as standard in Carbine length - complete with a threaded adaptor to suit Daystate’s Airstream IV carbon fibre Reflex silencer - the Air Wolf is also available in a

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full-length Rifle model, as well as a high-power version.

The ambidextrous thumbhole stock fi tted to the Air Wolf is made in Italy by world renowned stockmaker, Minelli, and incorporates only the finest, selected Turkish

walnut. Also available in some countries is the Air Wolf MVT model. This features an on-board chronoscope and is programmed to allow the shooter to dial in the exact velocity required (upwards from 400 feet per second), adding another dimension of adjustability when required.

Air Wolf MCT - Specifications Overall Length: Barrel Length: Cylinder Capacity: Weight (unscoped): Available Calibres: Loading: Magazine: Fill Pressure: Power and Shots per Charge: Trigger:

Rifle - 1,028 mm (40.5 ins) Carbine - 978 mm (38.5 ins) 430 mm (17 ins) 400 cc, with 500 cc option (500 cc standard on high-power model) 3.63 kg (8 lbs) .177 (4.5 mm), .22 (5.5 mm) Via bolt (electronically cocked and fired) 10-shot rotary, removable (from left or right).

Also supplied with magnetic singleshot loading tray 230 BAR (3,335 psi) .22 - 400 shots @ 12 ft/lbs; 70 @ 40 ft/lbs .177 - 300 shots @ 12 ft/lbs; 150 @ 18 ft/lbs Electronic release. Adjustable for weight and length of stage

Safety:

Manual, electronic rotary lever with keyswitch isolator

Stock:

Walnut, ambidextrous thumbhole

Options:

Carbine or Rifle length, left-hand bolt, black bolt handle, sling swivels, Airstream silencer.

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Air Wolf

Magazine Breech block group assembly Safety catch group assembly Trigger group assembly Striker solinoid group assembly Valve housing group assembly Integral sound moderator group assembly Barrel Bottle 400/500cc O-Ring N70 617 O-Ring N70 118 Screw 4BAx1/8” Striker Housing Dust cover Stock bolt Battery Butt pad Butt pad screw Valve body dowel Valve body retaining screw Stock

MK4 iS-S

A DREAM HUNTING PARTNER In the world of airguns, there has never been anything quite like Daystate’s patented electronic system. Building on the groundbreaking MK3 system, the latest Map Compensated Technology that’s fi tted to the new MK4 iS models turns a revolutionary system into an evolutionary one, providing total shooting control from the advanced

software programs that power it.

The MK4 wears the crown for being the most advanced PCP air rifle on the planet. A new information screen brings into view the state-of-the-art technology hidden inside, and also gives the shooter ultimate control via its user-programmable options. The

MCT pulse beating at the heart of the MK4 action generates a lock-time - the period between the squeeze of the trigger and the pellet’s acceleration along the barrel - that’s up to five times faster than a conventional, mechanically-driven PCP. Additionally, the shot-to-shot consistency is effectively digitallyregulated courtesy of the MCT’s sophisticated

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air guns

electronic monitoring system.

Whilst the phenomenally-fast firing cycle makes it easy to get outstanding down-range results, the MK4 is backed by numerous other accuracy enhancing features, from an electronically-operated, fully-adjustable twostage trigger to a target-grade barrel that freefloats within a full-length, sound-moderating shroud. Yet despite the cutting edge technology within, the MK4 is also a stunning looker, whether you opt for it in Sports (S) or Sports Thumbhole (ST) livery.

Created by top stock designer, Gary Cane and crafted in high-grade Turkish walnut by world renowned stockmaker, Minelli of Italy, the MK4 models handle as beautifully as they look.

MK4

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MK4 iS - Specifications Overall Length: Barrel Length: Cylinder Capacity: Weight (unscoped): Available Calibres: Loading: Magazine: Fill Pressure: Power and Shots per Charge: Trigger:

928 mm (36.5 ins) 430 mm (17 ins) 144 cc 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) .177 (4.5 mm), .22 (5.5 mm) Via bolt (electronically cocked and fired) 10-shot rotary, removable (from left or right). Also supplied with magnetic singleshot loading tray 230 BAR (3,335 psi) .22 - 180 shots @ 12 ft/lbs; 50 @ 30 ft/lbs .177 - 150 shots @ 12 ft/lbs; 80 @ 18 ft/lbs Electronic release. Adjustable for weight and length of stage

Safety:

Manual, electronic rotary lever with keyswitch isolator

Stock:

‘S’ Model - walnut sporter ‘ST’ Model - walnut thumbhole

Options:

Carbine or Rifle length, left-hand stock (S & ST versions), left-hand bolt, black bolt handle, sling studs, Airstream silencer.

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Magazine Breech block group assembly Safety catch group assembly Trigger group assembly Hammer group assembly Valve housing group assembly Front Valve Body assembly Integral sound moderator group assembly Barrel Air Cylinder Barrel support Screw Flat M3x6 O-Ring N70 810 Dust cover Sensor insert Dowty Seal Pressure sensor Battery Valve body dowel Valve body retaining screw Stock Stock bolt Butt pad Butt pad screw O-Ring N70 118 Screw 4BAx1/8”

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51

scopes

Brightening up the twilight

The new EL 50 SWAROVISION binoculars from SWAROVSKI OPTIK guarantee more detail at all times 52

h&s Issue 05 l May 2011

With the new EL 50 SWAROVISION binoculars, hunting in twilight conditions no longer presents such a challenge.

The combination of the unique EL wraparound grip, higher magnification and larger objective lens diameter guarantees exceptional detail recognition and better twilight performance.

SWAROVSKI OPTIK is delighted to announce the latest member of its awardwinning EL range of binoculars; the EL 50 SWAROVISION, setting new standards in detail recognition and light-gathering.

MORE LIGHT. BETTER PERFORMANCE

When hunting, seeing critical details can make all the difference, especially in twilight and other poor lighting conditions, which is why SWAROVSKI OPTIK created the EL 50 SWAROVISION: professional binoculars for the discerning hunter - for any situation. The EL wrap-around grip makes the binoculars easy to handle and highly stable, ensuring that the EL 50 SWAROVISION's higher magnification can be enjoyed to the full without any image shake. Furthermore, the larger objective lens diameter provides a higher resolution, brighter images and even better detail recognition - even when light conditions are poor. After all, the clear view and accurate identification offered by the EL 50 SWAROVISION guarantee even greater safety when hunting.

SWAROVISION technology The unique SWAROVISION technology uses a combination of field flattener lenses, HD optics, innovative coating technologies and a large exit pupil distance to provide sharp contrast right up to the image periphery and a full, wide-angle field of view for spectacle wearers. The new EL 50 SWAROVISION binoculars also feature enhanced, perfectly optimised coatings which provide even more lifelike colour reproduction and higher transmission - for reliable identification even in twilight.

The two new models, EL 10x50 SWAROVISION and EL 12x50 SWAROVISION will be available from April from specialist hunting and optics retailers. ›

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scopes

Swarovski Optik Presents practical new accessories SWAROVSKI OPP introduces new accessories to a large audience at the international trade fair IWA 2011. The company is committed to incorporating customer requirements into the development of these practical accessories.

Bino Guard EL - Practical protection for lenses of the EL range of binoculars The Bino Guard EL provides optimum rain, dust and dirt protection for lenses from the EL range of binoculars. The user can fold back the guard in a single, swift, silent movement and is immediately ready to observe. It is just as quick and easy to replace the Bino Guard EL over the lenses with just one hand. This ensures that no time is wasted in preparing the binoculars for use at the crucial moment, when every second counts. The product is made from robust, weather resistant neoprene and therefore has a long service life. The transparent compartment in the protective ap provides space for ballistic information or a cleaning cloth.

Bino Suspender - The easier way to carry binoculars The comfortable new Bino Suspender distributes the weight of the binoculars evenly across the entire upper body. This relieves pressure from the hunter's neck area and allows him to move easily by preventing the distracting swinging motion of the binoculars. The 2.5 cm wide carrying strap provides extra comfort. The new click and adjust system allows the carrying strap to be attached and detached quickly. The strap is easily and individually adjustable. The new holder weighs just 110 g.

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Winged Eyecup Set - A practical set to protect ocular lenses and prevent the entry of ambient light Suitable for all EL and SLC series binoculars, the eye cups prevent distracting ambient light from entering from the side. They fi t easily over the ocular lenses and move as the height of the twist in eyecup is adjusted, providing the optimum position for the eyes. The protective lens cap is also made of soft, durable material. This set is a simple but effective and extremely attractively priced alternative and is superior to all existing special and individual solutions.

CTC/CTS Stay-on Case - Effective new protective casings for extendable telescopes SWAROVSKI OPTIK has developed new protective casings for extendable telescopes. From April, they will be supplied as standard with the CTC 30x75 and CTS 85. In addition to a more attractive appearance, the casings have above all been designed to offer improved comfort, functionality and protection for the harsh realities of everyday hunting.

The protective objective and ocular lens caps are quickly and easily removed for observation. The caps, which are then secured against the telescope, stabilise the instrument and prevent it from rolling away, which is essential in a raised hide or on uneven terrain. A fixing screw prevents the telescope from slipping through the case. The stay-on cases for both models are also available as separate accessories for existing telescopes.

Field Bag Pocket S - A practical new bag for small instruments From March, a new bag that matches the design of our existing Field Bag will be supplied as standard with the Pocket 8x20 and Pocket 10x25 models. Field Bags for the Pocket S are fi tted with a belt loop with a Velcro fastener for fast attachment and removal. They also have a carrying strap and a small interior pocket. The Field Bag Pocket S is also available as a separate accessory.

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scopes

Pulsar NV Phantom 3x50

Yukon Advanced Optics Worldwide is one of the leading manufacturers of optical products, night vision, synergies of electronics and optical devices and accessories.

Pulsar is a brand of Yukon Advanced Optics Worldwide. The brand includes optics and advanced NV designs culminating years of research into a new line targeted towards professional and discriminate amateur users.

Law enforcement, tactical, search and rescue operations and many other applications are considered in the development of the Pulsar Models.

Pulsar NV Phantom 3x50 The Phantom takes into account all the requirements for modern night hunting.

Utilising a military-style design and offering maximum functionality, the Phantom is an obvious choice for anyone who demands the highest quality and impeccable reliability. It is fully weatherproofed, thanks to a nitrogen filled optical channel and waterproofing to IPX6, and can be used anywhere. Arctic ice

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fields or desert sands, humid tropical forests or harsh Siberian taiga – the Phantom is ready to do its job regardless of weather conditions.

The body of the Phantom is made of highly durable glass-filled plastic. The bodyshell design and high grade intensifier tubes ensure shock proofing to heavy calibres, including 9.3x62, 9.3x74 and 375H&H. The Gen 2+ tube has Automatic Brightness Control (ABC)

and, coupled with the high quality, wideaperture lens, provides a sharp and clear picture. The high light gain, combined with the built-in IR - Illuminator, allows hunting even in situations of critically low night illumination (down to 10-4 lx – overcast starlight). The fast start-up function (the sight is “On” only while pressing a button) is very useful for making quick assessments. The problem

of choosing a reticle has also been solved effectively. With the Phantom, you can choose the most suitable reticle configuration and change it by simply pressing a button (the Phantom with the Mil-Dot reticle is also available). The voltage stabilization system eliminates reticle shift even with an almost discharged battery. All main controls are on top of the body simplifying accessibility. These and other useful features make the Phantom one of the most interesting and promising new recruits to the class of elite night vision riescopes.

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57

hunting knives

Crafted

for Life C28BK2 Dragonfl y2 Lightweight™ CLIPIT®

C.Q.I. - Constant Quality Improvement is a process Spyderco uses to evaluate and refine longstanding and established knife models. C.Q.I. changes can be large and noticeable or be small, subtle refinements. The C.Q.I. was recently applied to the classic Dragonfly creating a new Dragonfly2..

The DragonFly2 retains all the basic features found in the classic model including its mid-sized blade, ergonomic handle with a front-finger choil and a spine cusp. Also carrying over from the original to the new-and-improved version is the same blade-to-handle geometry and leveraging points which make the Dragonfly cut and feel like a much larger large knife in the hand.

The new upgraded refinements include: a left/right tip-up wire clip, Spyderco’s patented Bi-Directional Texturing™ on the handle, textured jimping on the choil and spine and screw-together handle construction. The blade is premium VG-10 with a high-performance flat-grind and the choice of a PlainEdged™ or SpyderEdgde™ edge configuration. Precise positioning of the enlarged Spyderco Round Opening Hole in relation to the pivot makes opening smoother and the FRN (fiberglass reinforce nylon) handle ergonomically fills the hand with a series of grip angles and leveraging spots.

Overall length: Blade length: Weight:

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5-9/16” (141mm) 2-1/4” (57mm) 1.2oz (34g)

C101BL Manix2 Translucent Blue Lightweight CLIPIT®

by Spyderco®

Its official, the lightweight Manix2 is winning accolades including Blade Magazine’s 2010 Most Innovative American Design. Like its G-10 handled counterpart, the lightweight Manix2 features the Ball Bearing Lock®. The lock’s function centers on a free-floating ball bearing contained inside a polymer cage. The spherical shape of the ball bearing enables the lock to self-adjust across a large surface resulting in smooth and consistent lock-up each time it’s engaged.

Engineered to function as a self-contained locking mechanism, it does not need internal handle liners to support or anchor it in the handle and manufacturing it without liners keeps it extraordinarily lightweight, only 2.85oz (81g). Its EdgeTek FRCP (fiberglass reinforced co-polymer) handle is translucent royal-blue with textured jimping molded around sections of the handle’s parameter. Additional Bi-Directional Texturing® covers both sides of the handle’s scales affording secure grip in wet or challenging conditions. The blade is BD-1 steel by Carpenter Steel Corporation. BD-1 is gaining the notice of knife enthusiasts for its elevated carbon and chromium content and high-level rust-resistance and edge retention. The blade is ground flat with spine and choil jimping and an oversized Spyderco Round Hole. An ambidextrous, tip-up wire silhouette pocket clip and screw-together handle construction make it user friendly with several and carry options.

Overall length: Blade length: Weight:

Can a fledgling Knifemaker’s style be established after making just two knives? Jason Breeden’s has. He earned distinction as the knife designer who creates odd-shaped blades with the release of his first Spyderco collaboration, the Captain. Critics initially labeled the Captain’s blade shape unusual; their opinions changed after using and experiencing its pure functionality, quickly dismissing its quirky appearance as inconsequential. Jason’s second collaboration, the Spyderco/Breeden Rescue, is equally unconventional. In keeping with his previous design, it reflects his hard-use outdoor experience in the Appalachian Mountains. The Breeden Rescue has a VG-10 Sheepfootlooking hollow-ground blade. Focus is placed on creating strength at the tip of the blade where a knife sees the greatest use -think digging and prying. The blade’s tip bulges outward, its wide breadth further accentuated by a non-sharpened spine swedge designed to reduce the blade’s weight. Black G-10 handle scales house a Michael Walker LinerLock, four-way silhouette pocket clip and piped lanyard hole.

Handle is constructed with screw-together components.

Overall length: Blade length: Weight:

8” 203mm 3-3/8” 86mm 2.85oz (81g)

C139 Jason Breeden Rescue CLIPIT® by Spyderco®

7-7/8” (199mm) 3-3/8” (86mm) 4.5oz. (127g)

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59

hunting dogs

Tracker

®

Hunting Experience TRACKER EXACT BARK 433 & 434 Bark indicator transmitter

Tracker Exact general transmitter is designed for small dogs, but also suits some bigger dogs. Exact transmitter features alternative bark indicator or tree switch.

• Waterproof.

• Aluminum body.

• Support tree switch or bark indicator.

• Low battery indicator.

• Weight (with battery): 115g.

• Available frequency: 216/229, 230, 433/434 MHz. • Estimated range: 1-5 km (433/434MHz), 5-10 km up to 30 km.

TRACKER FLASH ORANGE Flash orange collar light • Easily slips on most tracking collar straps - no extra strap needed.

• Switch between flashing and continuous light operation.

• 250 working hours using 2 lithium batteries.

• Made to military specifications and waterproof.

• Package includes light, collar guide and 2 battery packs.

• Available in orange. ›

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hunting dogs

TRACKER EXACT 433 BARK Tracking system with bark indicator

TRACKER EXACT 433 BIRD Tracking system with motion detector

The Exact set is a complete set on a low budget. It contains an exact receiver and an exact transmitter. The exact receiver has a fine tuner which enables user to adjust the frequency for improved signal audibility. The Exact transmitter is suitable for all size of dogs.

• Exact receiver + 1 Exact transmitter.

• Suitable for all size of dogs.

• Transmission range up to 5 km.

• Long lasting battery life up to approx. 250 hours (Intello transmitter).

• Fine tuner.

• Supports bark indicator or motion sensor.

• Water resistant receiver and water-proof transmitter.

• Detect bearing signal by audio speaker and illuminating LED display.

• Available frequency: 433.050-434.790MHz.

TRACKER GPS 400 Tracker Hunter GPS/GPRS universal collar The Tracker G400 is a highly advanced GPS collar for hunting dogs. Great features and quality mechanics make this device stand out from its competition. In GPS based dog tracking the dog carries a GPS device in its neck. You can track your dogs location, movement and retrieving work on a map using software that works on your mobile phone: the new Tracker Hunter.

• A-GPS: fast location, secure operation, low power consumption.

• Traditional, secure text message-based tracking (location and tracking) and alarms (area bark alarm).

• Three different types of GPRS tracking: background, real-time and detailed location request.

• GPRS tracking is more compact and less expensive than text messaging.

• Water-resistant cover, shockproof and now also Fibreglass-reinforced, shaped to fi t the dog’s neck.

• To maximize durability and usability, the entire package is in a single lightweight unit.

• Shock-protected electronics.

• Yellow collar makes your dog safer in the woods.

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TRACKER INTELLO 433 & 434 Tracker Intello 434

Intello bark transmitter Tracker Intello is intended to provide maximum range for the dog tracking in the field. The collar size is suited best for hound dogs and moose dogs. The Intello transmitter features alternative bark indicator or point mode.

Tracker Intello 433

• Tree switch, bark indicator or motion sensor.

• Waterproof.

• Low battery indicator.

• Weight (with batteries): 235 g.

• Estimated range: 1-5 km (433/434MHz), 5-10 km up to 30 km.

• Available frequency: 138, 142, 151/152, 173/174, 216/220, 230, 433/434MHz

TRACKER GPS 310A Tracker Hunter GPS/GSM 310A Universal Collar The Tracker 310i dog collar applies Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking to minimize the time and effort needed to find your dog. Finding your dog is effortless now because the satellite will do all the work while you remain under an open sky.

• Locate your dog’s position.

• Track where your dog has been.

• Alert you when your dog has ran out of certain range.

• Adjustable GPS mode to manage the battery power.

• Rechargeable battery that operates from 22 hours to 4 days.

• Alerts you when your dog is barking. Also features bark-counter that tells you the frequency of the barkings.

• History log allows you to view previous tracking results.

• Possibility to make a phone call to the device and listen whether your dog is running on rugged terrain, tracking along a road or in water.

• Dog GPS is shockproof and water proof. The water tightness of each collar is tested in vacuum condition which is equivalent to 10 meters underwater. ›

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hunting dogs

TRACKER MAXIMA 433N Maxima 30 slot receiver If you are looking for a single device that tracks multiple collars, Maxima the multi-channel receiver is our best recommendation for you. Maxima has a simple programming function that can be customised to satisfy your specific needs.

Maxima has memory space to save your collars’ frequency and track each collar in their distinctive channels.

The user-friendly user interface and large LCD display make the Maxima easy and pleasant to use. The structure of the frame and antennas are durable, and the epoxy-coated aluminium is corrosion-resistant. Due to the tight structure, dirt or water cannot damage the sensitive parts of the device. The patented durable antennas provide top-level audibility and bearing accuracy.

• Self-programmable channels that track up to 5/25/100 collars.

• Patented folding antennas that fi t into pocket sized holsters.

• Excellent for long distance tracking.

• User friendly LCD display.

• Covered in durable solid aluminium.

• Detect bearing direction by audio speaker and illuminating LCD displays.

• Available frequency: 138, 142, 151/152, 155, 173/174, 216/220, 230, 433/434.

All collar functions, such as the bark detector, tree switch, point mode, and battery capacity indicator, can be operated with Tracker Maxima.

Maxima is compatible with all Tracker radio transmitters (Note! receiver and transmitter needs to be on same frequency area).

TRACKER HUNTER Tracker Hunter GSM phone CD software Tracker Hunter is our latest mobile tracking software that offers an easy, cost saving and versatile system to locate and track your dog. It provides a full range of utilities from route planning, to tracking and navigating. The biggest step-up in Tracker Hunter is the implementation of Tracker Live for data transmission. Tracker Live incorporates the GPRS module to greatly speed up data transfer and achieve real time tracking. In addition, GPRS method also cuts down the cost per data transfer by 100x!

• Monitor your own dogs and your friends locations on a phone map screen.

• Display and store the waypoints of your target(s).

• Share data with the party.

• Draw your own routes and use previously travelled routes for navigation.

• Display the travelling speed, distance and heading direction of your target(s).

• Automatic map downloads to the memory card via GPRS, when in need or in advance.

• Automatically download maps to the memory card via GPRS when needed or in advance.

• Preload maps from memory card, if GSM network is not available in the area.

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65

Go Hunting With Pascal Kherj from H&S, Beirut office team along with Astride Photographers rose early in the morning, just in time for the first ray of sunlight. They ventured out into the wild and rugged mountains of Lebanon where the entire team was filled with excitement as they set up for the all-new interior 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited photo-shoot. It was an adventurous experience for the entire team as they stood alongside the Jeep Wrangler as well as hunting accessories in a country that is one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful gifts and wonders.

The 2011 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited combines legendary capability with an all-new interior to provide you, professional hunters, with the best hunting experience ever!

With solid axles, a removable door, exposed hinges, a fold-down windshield and innovative removable and convertible tops, Jeep Wrangler Unlimited retains the brand’s desirable core values of freedom, adventure, mastery and authenticity.

So let’s all get prepared for the adventure, pack up your hunting and camping gear and let us drive to the most exciting hunt ever..

Thanks to Brescia and Spades Photography

historical weapons

The 1911

Colt 45

John M. Browning's Enduring Masterpiece In Steel By: Bernard Feliciano

So here we are again, another take on John M. Browning’s quintessential opus in steel - The Colt Calibre 45ACP 1911 and its modified iteration the 1911-A1.

And while some may raise an eyebrow murmuring, “been there - done that - read all about it, what is to know about the gun, so no point reading another article about it”, but it is quite a coincidence that the date this article was penned, also marks the pistol’s official adoption by the U.S. Military on March 29, 100 years ago.

A Demand for More Stopping Power An undeniable testament to the gun’s enduring singularity is that it soldiered on to be the primary sidearm in numerous conflicts the U.S. was involved with, whether imperial, global or regional in nature, since firing its first shot in anger. Interestingly, that first shot was the only shot that had sufficient terminal ballistics to prevail during the recurrent and fierce close quarter combat when the American colonial forces were waging battle with resolute Filipino separatist guerrilla warrior clans.

It was sometime in 1902 when the U.S. military found out, to the detriment of their soldiers, that aside from the then issue service sidearm the M1892 Colt Revolvers inability to function reliably under the steamy and sweltering battlefield conditions in the jungles of southern Philippines, its cartridge, the 38 Long Colt, was woefully inadequate in stopping the determined attacks by separatist fighters.

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Such attacks were made more nerve-wracking when the warrior prior going to battle had already “sworn the oath” (or the rite of running juramentado). The ritual endows the fighter with almost superhuman capability to absorb multiple wounds and bullet hits, still continue with the attack and despatch an American soldier or two before dropping dead himself from his injuries. Accounts vary, but the most prominent was one incident of a juramentado receiving 14 wounds in five minutes (presumably from combined 38 Long Colt and 30-40 Krag-Jorgensen rifle bullet hits, three of which penetrated his brain, and yet he kept fighting until finally expiring.

For those who are keen on the history of a given weapon and not merely the weapon per se, it was during the pacification campaigns, i.e., the bloody cauldron of combat, that the Americans were conducting against the Filipino separatists from 1902-1913, that the Colt Calibre 45ACP 1911 came into being and eventually achieved near-mythical eminence in the annals of firearms design and manufacture.

Maybe except for the P35 High Power, (another brilliant Browning design, but that’s another story), the 1911 has outlived all its contemporaries fielded by the other major powers during the two World Wars and shows no sign of ever slowing down and walking into the sunset.

The pistol, in fact, whether as part of a military assistance package to a U.S. ally during the Cold War, or manufactured in-country, is still in service with police agencies and/or armed forces of some countries even today.

Ideal Convergence of Calibre, Strength & Dependability So what was it with Mr. Browning’s design that made the 1911 so durable and very reliable even under extremely adverse combat situations?

Although applying the concept of Newton’s 3rd Law of Motion into firearms design was beginning to get more widely accepted amongst weapon manufacturers during the latter part of the 19th and the first quarter of the 20th century, the ingenuity behind the 1911’s design was so brilliant it appears deceptively simple.

Being a self-taught scientist himself, Mr. Browning harnessed not only the recoiling forces he always noticed whenever a firearm was discharged, he faithfully adhered with his father’s philosophy, an accomplished gunsmith in his own right, to always strive for functional simplicity in the design and manufacture of his firearms.

The incorporation of this concept was palpably evident when he came out with his recoil operated, locked breech, swinging link design. And with the 1911, Mr. Browning created a fighting implement not only Spartan in toughness and simplicity; it was also very efficient in lethality. This was opposed to other semi-automatic pistol designs of that era, deemed by the U.S. military at the time, to be either both delicate and overly complex in construction or chambered in too light a calibre.

How The Pistol Functions Operational Simplicity In Action The stages of the 1911’s firing cycle which appears to be descriptively time-consuming and intricate, actually transpires faster than a blink of an eye. Remaining fundamentally unchanged over the years, the operation is as follows – a) For the first shot, the slide has to be manually retracted - this compresses the recoil spring, sets the trigger and cocks the hammer. Releasing the slide and allowing it to move forward as the recoil spring decompresses strips a live cartridge from the 7-round magazine, seats it firmly in the

chamber and locks the barrel with the slide’s matching recesses into battery. b) Pressing the trigger disengages the hammer from the sear’s full cock notch which impacts on the firing pin contained in the channel located at the rear portion of the slide. The pin, driven forward by the momentum of the hammer strike, hits the primer of the chambered live round.

The ensuing primer detonation in turn ignites the main charge. The propellant, as it burns in a manner of a controlled explosion, a chemical reaction takes place, i.e., the solid gunpowder grains turning to gas under great pressure and expanding rapidly exerts tremendous force on the base of the 45 calibre slug. The bullet is then driven forward from its casing in the chamber to the barrel. c) As the bullet exits the barrel, with the expanding gasses continually pushing it, this forward motion of the projectile imparts an equal reverse momentum (the recoil) to the slide and barrel which remain locked together during this portion of the firing cycle. d) After the bullet has left the barrel, the slide and barrel continue rearward a short distance at which point, the swinging link attached to the barrel which is connected to the slide stop traversing the frame, pivots the barrel down out of the locking recesses in the slide, and brings the barrel to a stop.

Now, as the slide continues its rearward travel, the claw extractor pulls the spent casing from the chamber until the rear portion of the casing hits the ejector blade chucking the cartridge case through the ejection port, cut out in the right side of the slide, and away from the pistol. e) At this juncture, the slide stops and is then propelled forward by the decompressing recoil spring stripping another live cartridge from the magazine and seating it again into ›

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the barrel’s chamber. At the forward end of its travel, the slide locks with the barrel into battery again. f) Not until the trigger is pressed once more will the semi-automatic firing cycle repeated until the remaining rounds in the magazine is finally expended. In this instance, the slide remains locked in its most rearward position, a visual and tactile indication informing the shooter to change magazines and consequently press the slide stop downwards, usually with the firing hand’s thumb.

Specifications Of The Original 1911 Pistol & The 45ACP Chambering

Pistol

As avid readers of firearms magazines are very much aware, any discourse on the Colt 1911 and 1911-A1 brings to fore a whole host of other talking points. Whether about its exploits in the blistering field of battle, manufacturing provenance, number of makers, brands, models, clones, variants, copies and end users, not to mention the heartaches and tears shed brought about by the seemingly endless debate about the pistol’s persona, the gun does generate lively discussions.

Suffice to say that we will reserve the other

Overall Length:

216mm (8.50")

Overall Height:

133mm (5.25")

Barrel Length:

127mm (5.03")

Appearance:

w/ Blue Finish

Weight, empty: Calibre:

The unlocked slide anew moves forward under the pressure exerted by the decompressing recoil spring replicating stage A of the firing cycle minus the manual retraction of the slide.

The 1911A1 in the 21ST Century

Cartridge

Muzzle Velocity: Muzzle Energy:

Overall Lengthminimum/maximum:

1.256"-1.266"

Bullet Diameter:

.451"

Bullet Length:

.657"

1.13kg (2.49 lbs.)

11.5mm (.45")

Case Headminimum/maximum:

.4718"-4734"

Case Mouthminimum/maximum:

.4672"-4732" (.4730" standard)

253mps (830 fps) 450 joules (352 ft.lbs.)

topics relating to the pistol for future articles and offer our 2-cents worth of opinion as to whether Mr. Browning’s pistol can still hold its own, vis-a-vis the latest generation of combat/defensive semi-automatic pistols, in the market today. And although the pistol has its fair share of detractors there is no denying that the gun has its legions of aficionados who swear by it as the epitome of a combat handgun; period.

Much criticism has been levelled at the 1911A1’s ostensibly negative attributes, namely – its heavy weight, less than stellar accuracy, frightful recoil resulting to slow target acquisition between shots, limited magazine

capacity and complicated manual of arms regarding the ideal carry mode* – whether condition 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4. There may be others but for this issue let’s try to deal with aforementioned remarks.

A simple table with specified parameters shows the comparison between an all-steel single stack 1911-A1, in 45ACP, and the 4 most common polymer-framed high capacity pistols in, 9mm Parabellum, currently used by American law enforcement personnel, in their averaged barrel length, muzzle velocity, recoil energy and velocity, and accuracy.

Pistol Type/Calibre

Average Weight (empty)/Magazine Capacity

Average Barrel Length

Average Muzzle Velocity (115-grain FMJ)

Average Recoil Energy & Velocity

Average Accuracy @ 50 Feet (average of three five-shot groups)

Steel Slide-Polymer Framed/9mm Para (4 pistols from different makers)

1.50 lbs./14 rounds

4 inches

1130fps

5.2ft.lbs./15fps

2.75 inches

All-Steel *1911-A1/ 45ACP

2.25 lbs./7 rounds

5 inches

850fps (230-grain FMJ)

7.9ft.lbs./15fps

3.60 inches @ 75 feet

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The issues relating to weight, capacity and accuracy may have been partially answered above, but the matter on recoil, target acquisition and carry mode is where this article agrees most profoundly with what other bona fide gun writers say about the subject.

However, no matter what purpose the gun is intended for, it is incumbent on the provider to acquaint the potential owner with sufficient training and advise to enable him to carry and use the weapon in a responsible manner and to encourage the gun owner to follow the following criteria:a) Familiarization with the weapon’s manual and operational capabilities and limitations; b) To consistently practice with the weapon until it is almost an extension of the shooter’s body. c) Always practice safe gun handling procedures, and regularly implement gun care and maintenance.

It can be observed from our comparison that the heavier 1911-A1 (by 0.75 lb.), lesser ammunition in the magazine (by half) and somewhat greater recoil energy (by 2.70ft. lbs.) may, at a glance, not work in favour of Mr. Browning’s pistol. Disregarding the 1 inch difference in barrel length and the insignificant variation in accuracy (smaller grouping of the 9mm counterbalanced by the greater distance the 45ACP was shot) again, how does the 1911-A1 measure up toe to toe with the newer polymer kids on the block ?

The article is not intended to present itself as an authoritative commentary about the virtues and deficiencies of the gun as there is much subject matter that goes into much finer detail. What it attempts to do is demonstrate that Mr. Browning’s 100-year old pistol can still effectively serve with distinction with the proviso that it must agree with several common sense assumptions and basic truths underpinning the handling of guns, or any firearm for that matter.

So if weight and magazine capacity are concerns, at present, there are high capacity aluminium or polymer framed 1911-A1s in the market and with the 15 or more 1911-A1 makers in the U.S. alone, half have several models in aforesaid magazine volume and frames.

Still bothered about the less than outstanding accuracy; although our data above indicate otherwise? Today’s cutting edge technology in industrial design and manufacturing processes, i.e., CAD-CAM, EDM and CNC, ensure tight tolerances between firearm parts, consequently tighter groupings on paper target are achievable.

Afraid that the mule-kick of the recoil will result in flinching rather than shooting proficiency and inordinately slow down target acquisition in-between-shots? Confused by the protrusions of buttons and levers in the frame in relation to the ideal carry mode?

Now, if you are a handgun enthusiast and are in the market for a semi-automatic pistol and decided that it will be in 45ACP, but are emotionally confused as to what format the gun will be, yet deep down, even if you deny it, you are a firearm purist; then by all means go for an all-steel single stack 1911-A1. . . . .

But whether you decide on a factory stock, semi-custom or full custom job, either from the original maker or other current manufacturers . . . . .

There is nothing like, Mr. John Moses Browning’s, masterpiece in steel. Just devote time to it, practice with it and it will become second nature to you, and you will have the piece of mind that whether you have it as a back up weapon in the woods when confronted with a wounded grizzly, or for when you are face to face with an intruder with lethal intent, nothing stops quite like a 45 ACP.

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When Does a Battle Rifl e

Become a Hunting Rifl e?

OUR WORLD

Cartoon by Scott Novzen & Robert Segel

I suppose the answer to that is, most all the time. Way back when we had to go out and hunt our food the weapon used for the killing of animals would be the same one that we would use to protect ourselves from our human enemies.

Even going back to prehistoric times the cave man hunting the mammoth or saber tooth tiger would protect his kill from human predators with the same weapon. You would not expect him to say to his wife. “Pass me my hunting spear dear I am going to get lunch. No not that one that’s the one I use in case we get attacked by those nasty Neanderthals from across the glacier.”

Likewise, the Native Americans used the same bow to fight the settlers as he did to hunt with and OK they may have use a different arrow head and put a bit of war paint on it, but basically it was the same instrument. And the settlers with their flint lock smooth bore muskets would go off to fight the Indians and shoot the deer for their supper with the same gun.

Admittedly as manufacturing became more sophisticated and the weapons of war became more specialized things changed somewhat, but the infantry man coming back from the numerous wars man has inflicted on himself felt comfortable with the weapon he had been using throughout the conflict and so his hunting rifle would reflect that weapon to a great extent. ›

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For many years now the hunting rifle of choice has been the bolt action with either fixed or removable magazine, invariably with three or five shot capacity. The exception of course is the indomitable double rifle generally made in the dangerous game category. However, since the advent of the semi automatic and even fully automatic assault rifles, the fashion, if you want to call it that, is for hunting rifles to reflect the style, if not the fully auto feature, of these weapons more and more.

If we go back just as far as the World War I era, and consider the US specifically, as there are too many variations in different countries to contend with here, the standard issue battle rifle used in that conflict was the, 1903 Springfield bolt action in 30-06 caliber.

After WW I the bolt action hunting rifle in 30-06 was one of the most popular large game hunting rifles produced, and is still a favorite today.

With the advent of WW II the Garand semi automatic rifle became the standard issue infantry weapon.

After WW II the semi auto rifle and shotgun gained popularity amongst hunting and target shooters.

During the Vietnam War the M-16 was introduced as the standard infantryman’s weapon, with updated and improved versions it remains the current US service rifle today.

Now, the AR platform rifle, which is the same pattern as the M-16, is now recognized by many, as the quintessential hunting rifle of the day. Some people think that the “AR” stands for, Automatic Rifle, or Assault Rifle, making it appear more of a military weapon than is necessary. What it actually stands for is simply, Armalite Rifle.

So let’s look at the history of the M-16/AR-15 rifle shall we? As mentioned the M-16 was first introduced to the military in the Vietnam War period with not a little controversy

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surrounding it. First, the 5.56 caliber bullet was considered by most soldiers to be a varmint round not capable of the stopping power required in combat. However the 5.56 round was ultimately found to be lethal enough as once it penetrated it tended to rotate causing significant internal damage. The smaller caliber was much lighter of course and as the weapon was able to be fired fully automatic so more ammunition was spent in a short time therefore more needed to be carried by the soldier. The lighter then the better.

In fact it was not so much the caliber that was the problem; it turned out to be the original rifle design in that it did not have sufficient corrosion resistance to its metal parts and the powder used in the bullet tended to clog the works making the weapon jam with horrendous consequences. The following widely published statement is from a Vietnam soldier retuning from a firefight.

“We left with 72 men in our platoon and came back with 19, Believe it or not, you know

what killed most of us? Our own rifle. Practically every one of our dead was found with his M16 torn down next to him where he had been trying to fix it.”

- Marine Corps Rifleman, Vietnam.

Current versions of the rifle have been modified and all the problems have been rectified and now maintenance training is given to every soldier and cleaning kits are a standard issue.

So how does the AR-15 stack up in the woods and the field? Well the first thing to state is that the civilian version is only made in single shot mode as any other hunting semi auto; no fully automatic version should be used for hunting. However the single shot semi auto mode give immediate second shot target acquisition, which is a good thing.

Significant use of polymer and aluminum reduces the weight, ideal if you have to carry it all day over rough terrain or through the woods.

Whilst it looks nothing like a traditional hunting semi auto its features are the same.

For example: • It is semi automatic.

• It is gas operated.

• It has a removable magazine.

• It has an ejector port.

• It fires one round per pull of the trigger.

• It has a pistol grip.

Admittedly the pistol grip is more pronounced but this makes the gun easier to hold and arguable more stable. Also the AR15 pattern rifles are almost always equipped with Picatinny rails and risers which enable numerous accessories to be fi tted without any modifications being required to the rifle.

Scopes can be fi tted with ease as can flash lights and laser sights. Admitted, as apposed to the M16, the hunting AR does not have a bayonet lug but then most of us hunters would rather not try to stab a deer to death or a grumpy grizzly for that matter. Other none hunting characteristics were removed from most AR-platform hunting rifles, like the elevated front and rear site/carry handle and the flash eliminator which tended to remove a little of the battle rifle image.

So what about the 5.56 caliber? Well yes, when the AR-15 platform hunting rifle was first introduced it was sold basically as a vermin rifle in light caliber only, but as the benefi ts of the model became more obvious and it became more and more acceptable to the hunter more calibers were introduced, and now you can order your AR-15 style hunting semi auto in a huge selection of calibers, from the original, 5.56/.223 all the way up to the awesome Alexander Arms .50 caliber Beowulf, a pretty formidable weapon you must admit and which is able to contend with any dangerous game you are likely to encounter. Due to the design of the AR, the felt recoil of the .50 caliber is quite manageable and it is said to feel like the recoil felt from a 20gauge shotgun. Most acceptable for a .50 caliber.

So what about accuracy? A most important consideration when both hunting or competition shooting. Stock rifles are well within acceptable parameters but the .50 caliber Alexander Arms tested with 400 grain soft point factory loads consistently produced groups of three under ¾ of an inch, whilst the 325 grain hollow point came in at under 1 inch groups.

Les Baer makes an AR pattern Match Rifle in .308 caliber with guaranteed accuracy at 100yards of less that ¾ of an inch using Federal Premium 168 grain ammunition. An Armalite AR sending Remington 40grain Nosler bullets in 223 caliber will give you a sub ¾ inch at 100yards in groups of three, time and time again. And if you are a true rifleman you will achieve sub ½ inch.

The above are just three calibers out of the dozens on the market nowadays, .243, .260, .300, 7.62, .338 and 458 SOCOM are some other calibers available. So whilst the discussions continue regarding the best caliber for the military, we hunters have a vast selection of AR platform rifle manufactures to choose from in any caliber that will do the job you want it for. Admitted some of the more sophisticated custom jobs will set you back quite a few Dollars, but this is the same no matter what weapon you are looking at.

Will we see the AR-15's in the big game safari lodges of Africa along side the Holland and Holland and the John Rigby double rifles? I don’t see why not, I am sure they would raise a few of the purists eye brows but at the end of the day technology moves on, albeit slowly sometimes, but basically what any ethical hunter wants is to dispatch his quarry with the least suffering and as humanely as possible. At the end of the day the instrument that does this is basically a tube that sends a bullet as accurately as possible to the target. An AR15 pattern rifle will do it just as good and in some cases better than most. So as with lots of things in this world it’s down to personal preference.

Would I hunt with one, you ask, well I have been around for a while now and if you want to be kind you could say I am mature, some of my friends say I am an old dog, but you know what, despite the old proverb, I think you just might be able to teach this old dog a new trick, so yes I would carry an AR, but I would also like to keep my “Old Betsy,” if its all the same to you. Nothing like sitting on the fence.

By: Richard Camm

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The Turkish Mausers

By Bernard Feliciano

Gewehr 98's Service with the Ottoman Mehmetçik & the Asker of the New Republic

Gewehr 98's Service with the Ottoman Mehmetçik & the Asker of the New Republic This is an after action report filed by Hunting & Safari’s war correspondent covering the 1877-1878 Russo-Turkish War – Dawn attack by overwhelming Russian force on fortified but outnumbered Turkish positions decisively repulsed! . . . . . STOP . . . . . Russians suffer heavy losses including a Maj. General and the Colonel of the Archangel Regiment, killed in action . . . . . STOP . . . . High Russian casualties attributed to Field Marshal Osman Pasha’s brilliant defensive tactics of integrating artillery with accurate long and concentrated short range rifle fire . . . . . STOP . . . . . undaunted Turkish defenders observed to be armed with 44 Calibre Model 1866 Winchester Lever Action Repeating Rifles . . . . . STOP . . . . . full report upon arrival . . . . . STOP .

The above after action report, of course, is fictitious and most certainly, Hunting & Safari Magazine, recently launched, does not have a war correspondent who covered an actual military engagement that occurred 134 years ago. The date was July 20, 1877, when the first Battle of Plevna, also regarded as The Plevna Delay took place.

Consider the battlefield statistics. In the brief but intense 15-20 minute melee, during the initial clash, the Russians rackedup 74 officers and 2,771 infantrymen killed versus the 12 dead and 30 wounded on the side of the Turkish defenders.

Wondering why I am discussing Oliver F. Winchester’s M1866 Lever Action with a 14-round tubular magazine, when the article’s title is about the Mauser rifles in Turkish service . . . . .? Well, the Ottoman military placed orders for at least 190,000 lever action long rifles and some 40,000,000 plus rounds of ammunition with Winchester during the duration of the war. Like Mr. Winchester, the businessman that he is, Peter Paul Mauser, also realized he has a killing to make when he launched his series of rifles, culminating into his tour de force the - Gewehr 98.

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Mauser noted the lopsided casualty tally and started ruminating on the Winchester’s tremendous advantage in firepower over the Russian’s single shot breech loading Krnka issue rifle. Obviously making an impact on the German gun-maker’s creative mind, this compelled him to build and perfect the weapon that would eventually leave its unmistakable imprint on rifle design even today.

A Warrior Society.

A Martial Tradition It is uncanny for a casual observer, more so, a keen student of military history, how a particular weapon can influence a nation’s progression to what it is now. Turkey has a martial history, and like any society, ancient or modern, steeped in a warrior culture, the need to keep abreast with the developments in weaponry and the committed initiative to adopt such armaments and integrating them with one’s military strategy and tactical doctrine, more often than not decides the victor on the field of battle.

The Ottoman military mindset obviously is no exception to that truism. From the instant Mehmed II employed Orban’s 36-inch calibre siege cannon, to the time Abd al-Hamid II’s military high command bought Winchester’s lever-action rifle, until replacing it with the superior 29.97-inch barrelled, 8-round, tubular magazine-fed, Mauser bolt action rifle Model 1887, in calibre 9.5x60mm Turkish, the Ottoman Mehmetçik, time and again, reigned supreme in the theatre of war.

Despite Mr. Mauser’s improvements on the Model 1887 they originally bought the Ottoman military made certain via a clause in the purchase contract, that whether upgrades were made to an existing model or a completely new type would come off Mauser’s production lines, the Mehmetçik would be armed with it.

The Ascent of the Turkish Armourer & The Road

Towards Armaments SelfReliance (1933 - present) Turkey became a republic on October 29, 1923, and President Mustafa Kemal Ataturk was left with a national economy in shambles.

Drained by a succession of conflicts, from the Balkan Wars and World War 1, until the Turkish War of National Liberation, the first president of the new-born republic nonetheless ensured his country’s survival by introducing economic policies that the 21st century Turkey benefi ts from to this day, so under a great deal of strain to maintain and equip a large army against the possibility of a German attack, the new republic’s army decided to harness the talents of its homegrown armourers.

Nowhere has the decision to remain acquiring Mauser’s guns and depending on the rifle’s intrinsically sound design and utterly strong and simple mechanical operation proved more important than the period when the Turkish Asker has to make do with what he had in order to maintain and defend the sovereignty of his recentlyfound country.

The majority of the modifications and refurbishing of existing Gewehr 98’s were carried out under the management of Askeri Fabrikalar ASFA, (Turkey’s Military Factories Administration). With its headquartered in Ankara, ASFA controlled all militaryrelated industries. One such state-owned production facility was ASFA Kirikkale ("K'kale"), established in the village of Kirikkale, west of Ankara by CZ Brno for the Turkish republic in 1936-38. Intended for the fabrication of the first Turkish specified Mauser, the new plant also converted their earlier Mauser models to the now-standard 7.92x57mm Mauser.

Production lines of the Kirikkale plant began to deliver prototype-fabricated rifles in 1939, and went into full production in 1940.

Lasting until 1946, total production output was some 250,000 long rifle versions, with

approximately 20,000 in shorter carbine versions. The Turkish Mauser went through many modifications between 1898 and today but the basic ruggedness and reliability has always been the cornerstone of the weapon.

In 1954 ATF, the Military Rifle Factory converted the last remaining Gewerh 98s to the 1937 format and these Mauser action rifle were generally used for conscript training only. In the late 1950s the Turkish armed forces were being issued with the 30-06 semi automatic, 8 round clip, gas fed operated, US M1 Garand rifle, and eventually this was superseded by the 20 round detachable magazine, select fire, 7.62x51mm NATO, German HK91/G3A3 retarded blowback roller block which became Turkey’s main battle rifle.

As Turkey entered the 21st century its soldier are now issued with the Heckler&Koch licensed, Turkish MKEK made, G3-A3 and the G3-A4. MKEK also produce the HK33 in 5.56x45mm NATO. Also in prototype production and shortly to be ready for full production, is the MKEK Mehmetcik-1 and this will be issued to select Turkish Special Forces for testing and evaluation. In similar Turkish tradition the Mehmetcik-1 will follow the trend of the Gewehr Mauser of yesterday and become Turkey’s home-grown Styrmgewehr (Storm Rifle/Assault Rifle) and will eventually replace the battle rifles in current service.

Said to be similar in design to the ultra modern German Heckler&Koch HK 416, the Mehmetcik-1 in more ways than one, completes the circle of the Turkish weapons industry’s history.

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Ithaca Auto &Burglar Gun

By Robert G. Segel

Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun Model A (top) and Model B (bottom) with breeches open in typical shotgun fashion.

“Even a Nervous Bank Employee Can Hit with an Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun” 86

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The Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun is “The ‘sawed off ’ double barrel shotgun you can carry on your hip.” Such enthusiastic advertising was not only common, but appropriate, in the 1920's and ‘30s depression era. Lawlessness abounded with home invasion, bank and highway robberies. Not only did banks and other institutions have to protect their valuables and assets with their own security personnel because there was no government Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. to cover losses from holdups, but civilians too had to take it upon themselves to protect their welfare; particularly motorists who were considered easy prey and were frequently robbed on rural and suburban highways in a then upto-date version of stagecoach robbery.

Homeowners as well were targets and needed a weapon to confront housebreakers.

All of these dangers were present in the immediate post World War One era. It was in this climate that the famed Ithaca Gun Company of Ithaca, New York recognized a need and introduced a fighting shotgun in a small and potent package.

The Ithaca Gun Company was well known for producing a wide array of fine sporting shotguns and in 1908 introduced their guns on a box-action frame designed and developed

by Emil Flues. The Flues action, as it was called, had a very strong double bolting system and had a tapered bolt that moved laterally in the frame of the gun locking into

Model A

to the right and breaking open the barrels by pushing them down in standard shotgun fashion. This could be a bit of a problem due to the short length of the barrels providing inadequate leverage, and being particularly stiff with both hammers fired. If the barrels were hot, it compounded the problem.

On June 5, 1922, Ithaca introduced their Auto and Burglar Gun, commonly called the Model A. Designed with security in mind to be compact and lightweight, it featured a hammerless action with side-by-side 10-inch cylinder-bore barrels chambered in 2-1/2 inch 20 gauge with double triggers and a curving pistol grip resembling that of old dueling pistols with a large spur extending off the top rear of the grip to assist in control during firing. The gun was fi tted with standard shotgun extractors. The top receiver tang fi t ush and followed along the top of the pistol grip ending at the spur and the bottom receiver tang, also fi tting ush on the front of the grip, extended down to almost the bottom of the butt. A sliding safety was located on the top of the pistol grip between the spur and the opening lever. Opening the breech was accomplished by pushing the lever

Ithaca was known for their fine quality of workmanship, fi t and finish in their sporting guns and their Auto and Burglar guns featured this same excellence. The Model A was produced from 1922 to 1925 with an estimated 2,500 guns being built with a retail price of $37.50. They were not, however, produced on their own production line. All the Auto and Burglar guns were made on current sporting gun frames and as inventory was depleted, 100 new sporting frames were taken off the assembly line and made into Auto-Burglar guns. As was typical of all Ithaca Gun Company products, the Auto and Burglar guns featured high quality bluing and colored case hardening on the frame with fine wood with detailed checkering on the grip and forestock. All Flues frame Model A Auto and Burglar guns fall in the serial number range of 356514 to 398365. ›

the barrel-rib extension. Additionally, an underbolt locked into a recess in the barrel lug. Hammer cocking of this weapon was accomplished through cocking hooks and lever assemblies as the breech was opened.

The underside of an early NID frame Model B showing the rosettes engraved on the bottom of the frame and on the trigger guard.

Two-page period advertisement from the Ithaca Gun Company expounding the virtues of the Auto and Burglar Gun in apprehending five Indiana bank robbers with testimony from L. J. Lang, South Bend, Indiana Chief of Police.

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Model B By 1925, Ithaca had developed, and began marketing, a new sporting shotgun frame called the NID (New Ithaca Double) and replaced all their guns with the Flues frame with the NID frame. Accordingly, all Auto and Burglar guns assembled after this change-over also had the new NID frame.

The NID was still a hammerless box-lock action, but was quite different internally. The gun was now cocked by cams and push rods located in the forward part of the frame and a different bolting system was employed. The barrel lug and underbolt were eliminated and a rotary bolt that locked into an enlarged barrel-rib extension replaced the tapered bolt. Loaded chamber indicators located on the top of the frame behind each barrel breech were also added. The new NID frame is considered stronger than the Flues frame because part of it was not milled away from for the underbolt.

Besides the new NID frame, the new Model B had a redesigned pistol grip. It is this feature that makes visual identification easy to tell apart the difference between the Model A and the Model B. The pistol grip on the Model B was changed so that the grip was perpendicular to the barrel-thrust line and the

stock spur was eliminated. The Model B pistol grip has been likened to that of a plowshare by extending straight back and then down.

The forestock on the Model B is also slightly thicker and heavier than on the Model A Since both models were pulled from the sporting model production line, the frames of both models contain engraving on each side of the frame of an Irish Setter on point: an incongruous decoration on a fighting shotgun.

For a brief period of time of about one year during the transition between 1925 and 1926, the new NID frame Model B Auto and Burglar Gun had rosettes engraved on the frame as decorations and the barrels remained at 10-inches. The rosettes were quickly eliminated and the barrels were lengthened to 12-inches and chambered for the new 2-3/4 inch 20 gauge shell. Approximately 800 NID frame Model B's were produced between 1925 and 1934, when production ceased. As with the Model A, Model B's were produced in 100 gun lots as needed from Ithaca’s sporting gun production line. All NID Model B Auto and Burglar Guns will have serial numbers falling in the range of 425000 to 459195. One source states that total production of both models was 3,300 guns.

Another source states that as many as 4,500 were assembled but not all sold. Though unconfirmed, there is some speculation that

The three major components of the Auto-Burglar Gun are the frame, barrels and forestock. The serial number is on each component of this Model B.

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Detail of the tooling on the flap of the Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun holster.

Ithaca transferred their remaining unsold stocks to the British during World War Two to arm Home Guard and military units after the fall of Dunkirk. Production of Auto and Burglar guns came to an abrupt end in 1934 due to the passage of the National Firearms Act of 1934, which effectively killed the market for all short barrel shotguns: the leaders of the time being the single-shot H&R Handygun, the double-barrel Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun and the 5-shot pump-action Remington Model 17.

Both A and B models broke down into three simple major components: frame, barrels and forestocks. Each of the three major components bears the serial number of the gun. Weighing slightly more than 4.5 pounds, with a total length of just 16.5 inches, the

Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun was a potent deterrent and a legitimate fighting shotgun.

A sole leather holster made for the AutoBurglar Gun, similar to common military holsters of the time, was available for $4.

The holster had the words Auto and Burglar Gun made by Ithaca Gun Co. Ithaca, N.Y. tooled into the flap. It was designed to be hung from a trouser’s belt worn on the waist enabling the gun to worn on the hip or hung from the steering column or stored in a car door side pocket or other suitable place in an automobile to provide secure storage yet easy access if needed. The holster was long enough so that the entire gun fi t within and possessed a flap that covered the butt.

Firing the Auto-Burglar Gun The Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun was designed for the honest citizen to protect themselves and their property from petty criminals with close-range firepower superior to that of any handgun a bandit, thief or assailant might be armed with. Bank and payroll guards, paymasters, night watchmen and express agents and messengers also purchased the gun for use on their jobs.

Testimonies exist that detail the effectiveness of apprehending or subduing criminal activity often with just the threat of brandishing such a potent weapon at close range. A doublebarrel charge of buckshot, each with 15 projectiles, was an effective deterrent. Law enforcement personnel within police and sheriff’s departments around the country found the Auto-Burglar Gun ideal for their special situations that required a weapon that possessed their unique characteristics.

Firing the Auto-Burglar Gun with one hand, like a pistol, has been likened to that of firing a .44 magnum revolver. However, it will be very muzzle heavy in the hand and there will be substantial muzzle climb upon firing as there is no front end support.

The gun was designed to be fired using both hands and three shooting positions are usually encountered: hip level, chest level or

Early transitional NID frame Model B with rosettes on the hinge pin and frame side.

Note the engraving of the Irish Setter on point.

eye level. When firing from the hip, the grip hand is used to brace against recoil while the forehand directs the muzzle towards the target. It is best to extend the arms a little bit and stand erect. If one is crouched over the weapon to any degree, the muzzle blast is very wicked and you will feel the effect upon your face.

With the chest and eye level methods, both arms are fully extended forward with the gun in a level position. At eye level, the brass bead front sight may be used to assist in aiming.

When using any of the three positions using both hands, the recoil is dampened as the shock is absorbed to some degree because of the hands though still allowing the muzzle to climb redirecting some of that recoil-impulse energy. Nevertheless, there will still be rapid and violent muzzle climb during recoil.

Though a simple modification of a sporting gun, the Ithaca Auto and Burglar Gun was the right gun at the right time that answered the call for which it was designed. Civilian users, motorists, homeowners, security and law enforcement all recognized the value of a compact, lightweight, hand-held scattergun.

One didn’t need to be absolutely accurate as with a single bullet fired from a pistol.

With a 15 buckshot projectile blast available from each barrel, the devastating effects were quickly grasped by even the dimmest

criminal. The Auto-Burglar Gun is considered to be one of the finest home defense guns ever devised. Unfortunately, the National Firearms Act of 1934 restricted the market and generally prevented the honest citizen from acquiring any more of these types of weapons without registration paperwork and tax.

With approximately 3,300 guns purportedly sold of both types, one would expect that they would be fairly common for the collector of today. Regrettably, that is not the case. While they still occasionally turn up in police or sheriff’s departments, particularly in the South and Southwest, the effects of attrition through neglect, failure to register, confiscation and even theft has left the remaining supply available to collectors quite small. While not rare, they are scarce and today command a price approximately 100 times their original cost. The leather holster, the only accessory for the gun, is exceptionally rare and is a coveted addition to a fighting shotgun collection that includes an AutoBurglar Gun. Because the gun was originally manufactured in the 1920s and early ‘30s with the pistol grip and short barrels, the gun is classified in the United States as an AOW (Any Other Weapon) Curio and Relic and a $5 tax stamp is applicable upon transfer to individuals on a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Form 4.

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exclusive interview

Insights from the Digiscoper Chairman of Swarovski Optik, Mr. Johannes Davoras meets with H&S and speaks about the past, present and future of the corporation as well as the Gulf Region.

Since its establishment by Wilhelm Swarovski, in 1949, Swarovski Optik has stood for long-range optics of the highest precision, identifiable by the simple but elegant design which speaks of noble restraint and conceals its technical secret inside.

Could you please explain your sales strategies, especially towards the Gulf Region?

Our sales strategies prominently rely on personal relationships in order to provide extensive customer service and also to keep our presence on the market as close as possible. We have direct distribution companies in most of Europe, hence, in comparison to our competitors; we are a decisive step closer to the customer and our dealer partners.

As for the Gulf region, we have the plan and we are in the middle of executing it.

Till date, we have around 8 partners in the region spread around the countries. First, we are working on extending our marketing capture in various areas. Today, the main focus is hunting while the second segment leans towards institutional business, agencies, and law enforcement units and so on. The third approach which will reveal itself at a little later stage will focus on the public market in order to attract potential partners and customers mainly for our observation products such as binoculars.

Mr. Hisham Sawaya of H&S & Mr. Johannes Davoras of Swarovski Optik

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At the moment, we are quite satisfied with our improvements in the region; however we do indeed have ambitions to further and develop our presence in the Gulf. If we compare ourselves to our competitors, I believe our presence and strategies are quite right.

Here in the Gulf, our main interest is service after sales. What can Swarovski provide us in terms of the service after sale strategy in the region?

First of all, our goal is to provide a seeming less customer service to both dealer partners and enthusiasts. This means that if there is an issue or an amendment to the product, it would be carried out very quickly from the area to the main service center and back. Our employees are also available for a good piece of advice if required by the customer.

What will be your new strategy or approach with regards to launching new products in the region?

We changed our innovation pace quite a bit recently. In the past six or seven years, our corporation launched one product every one or two years. We then decided to accelerate the pace of innovation worldwide by investing in quite huge amounts in our factory and head office. We then accelerated our pace nowadays to 3 - 4 products a year. This means 2 entirely new products plus 2-3 model upgrades. This is our present pace which is quite high. If you look at it from the market’s point of view, there is no difference between the innovation of an entirely new product or

a model upgrade. It is the same effort and it takes some time to get the message through to all the dealers. For example, in Europe, if I count all of our dealers, the total is around 5,500 dealer partners so clearly you can imagine that the message does take a good amount of time to get through to all of them when a new innovation is being launched. This concern is certainly also a challenge in the Gulf Region and it is a steep way and strong task for our employees in the Gulf. Training is also an important issue along with events for presenting new products. When launching products, we try to feature them with live events.

Usually, quality is always synonymous with leadership. How can you integrate Swarovski Optik with quality and leadership?

In many industries, you will find lots of companies that claim to be a leader in quality.

However, there is a kind of difference in Swarovski Optik. The quality consciousness in our company is quite genetic. Swarovski Optik dates back to 1949 and there has always been a quality leadership and consciousness which was handed down from one generation to the next. Therefore in contrast to other corporations where you have to inject some quality consciousness very often, we do not

have to do it because it is a genetic attempt of everybody as it is our culture which is a very important point. With the word quality, we mean pushing the scientific limits in optical products as far as we can and providing the highest quality standards in serial production.

Quality consciousness in detail means up to 140 steps of quality control in some products.

There are a lot of human factors involved. We are certainly checking quality with technical tools but there is a lot of man power involved therefore no product leaves our factory without being thoroughly checked both by technical tools as well as by quite experienced people who have a sharp eye and a great deal of vision in optics. This process brings us to about 100% reliability.

Quality consciousness to us means delivering a long lasting product, preserving values and the promise that if you buy a Swarovski Optik product, you can be sure that ten years later, it will still hold a good value.

In the Gulf, why must a hunter buy a Swarovski Optik product?

I think a hunter would buy Swarovski because they want reliability. They want to be sure that they have the best equipment on hand which supplies good aid in technical functionality while not taking every personal skill away.

We believe in emotionally challenging oneself while hunting hence we make sure to provide great technical functionality while still allowing the hunter to make use of his own vast skill abilities. ›

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exclusive interview

a decade ago, Swarovski Optik acquired Kahles. It was engaged in the hunting business with its riflescopes. They also had one model of binocular. We are restructuring the Kahles brand in terms of building new products for Kahles. It will be a supplier for hunting riflescopes in the future but will specialize itself over the years towards the institutional users, meaning riflescopes for law enforcement, etc. Kahles models are said to be quite robust and decent. They are simple, reliable and have a good value when it comes to money. With regards to pricing, it will be around 20-25 percent below Swarovski on average.

Does this mean you want the middleclass to be more inclined towards Kahles?

What is your expectation for the Gulf region in terms of sales achievement or growth in the coming two years?

If I combine the three directions pointed out at the beginning of this interview, i.e., hunting, institutional business and public market, I’d say we are looking at a double digit growth. That is our goal. I see the potential between 10 and 20 percent which is certainly an ambitious goal. If we are diligent enough, the goal should be within our reach. However, I do not want to exaggerate as I would rather have a sustainable and moderate growth as opposed to having a big one next year.

develop the next model. The reason for us taking our time is because we knew that the expectations for success were high. We had a very high success rate with the previous model and we wanted to integrate new technologies with the new one. That is why we launched it last year on the 5th of January.

So, if you look back to the first year on the market, we are looking at 17,000 pieces all around the world which we managed to sell to customers and the EL model is very well accepted. We had a good response through all our markets and this year, we followed up on that and launched EL50.

What did you add to the new EL?

Can you tell us the importance of EL. Why were the changes so much and why did it take Swarovski Optik that long to introduce a new product into the market?

The EL was a success story all in all. By reliable media sources, it was said to be the best binocular model in the world. We introduced this entire new grip and focusing mechanism.

The EL was always a very strong column for our corporation and the EL itself as well as the previous model had a very high optical standard. As I said, our aim is to push limits further on a scientific level which is not very easy. We took almost three years to

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It is a 50 diameter binocular which mainly is meant to serve to our clients that are expert birders because of its edge sharpness and high capability of light transmission which works well for sundown hunting. The model has a good capture in the hunting market.

This model also caused quite some attention.

Hopefully, we will be able to prolong the success of the EL50 model.

What can you tell us about the Kahles Brand in general?

Kahles is actually the oldest riflescope brand in the world. It is 112 years old. More than

I would say Kahles is also a premium brand.

We do not position the brand in the lower or mid class. It is more of an upper mid and premium class. It will be produced in Austria.

Austria is a quality production site so if we would be going for low market segments, we would have to rethink the production site.

However, we are not doing that since we believe in Austrian craftsmanship. We are sourcing some components for our products worldwide but we do not manufacture our products somewhere else. We source in smaller portions. Everything is produced here with tradition, craftsmanship and more than 60 years experience.

Do you have models that are assembled in the United States?

Yes, we have two models that are assembled in the U.S. What are the two products?

Z3 and Z5. Everything is made here but these two products are assembled there because of custom reasons, taxes etc. It is much more convenient to ship parts to be assembled there rather than to ship the products as a whole when taxes and customs are involved.

Is the U.S the biggest market for you?

Yes, it is the biggest market for us. We have a strong position in the U.S. and we have managed to carry it through inspite of the difficult times last year.

You had a great increase in Germany a good 3-4 years ago. Is this because of the new products or new services?

How can you identify this quick growth in a market like Germany where the market is very difficult to satisfy?

I believe it is a combination of reasons. First of all, I think it is the products that we produced.

The Z6 products that we launched in 2007 were and are quite appreciated in Germany.

Then we have the right binocular range for the German market if you look at our SLC56 model. It is the typical model for German hunters. The first reason is the products while the second reason is our change in the distribution system; we went from an importers structure to direct distribution with a company in Germany. We went a decisive step closer to the market in Germany by doing that. The third reason is that we try to speak and mingle with German hunting associations. The growth rates that we experience last year and this year are quite promising.

Could you please tell us a bit more about the new riflescope Z4?

We launched it last year in June. It is meant to be a second line, slightly lower than the Z6 range in terms of pricing. It also has a decent quality and option for those who cannot afford a riflescope of the Z6 range. Hence, we introduced an illuminated riflescope of the Z4 range successfully in the market and it is very well accepted. We reached the numbers that we aimed at for it last year.

What would you like to tell our Arab Hunters with regards to the coming 2 years about Swarovski?

For the coming two years, I would suggest to closely follow what we bring to the market through H&S, because I know quite well that we will introduce quite appealing products for international hunters as well as hunters in the Gulf region. Both the observation site, long range, close range observation and also the riflescopes will have appealing innovations coming and we will also see products for people who want to own a Swarovski product not only for the decisive purpose of hunting, birding but also to appreciate a good pair of binoculars in hand for various purposes such as events, journey, traveling and so on. We will do our best in providing attractive innovations in the coming two years.

We all know that Swarovski is a family business with its own culture and vision. Do you see this continuing in the future and if so do you see it as an advantage or disadvantage?

In my opinion, it is definitely an advantage.

The company was founded in 1949 and we see many generations that have already proved to have the consciousness for this company and other Swarovski groups. The private ownership structure provides us with the advantage to have a more far-sighted vision. Our owners are themselves quite quality conscious. Quality is the main common sense. This provides with a long lasting relationship, strategically also, if you compare us to private companies. I consider the ownership structure to be a strong advantage and also to have owners personally own a stake in a corporation is something different than just being employed in a corporation.

Their emotion will be much bigger along with their endorsement and interest. I believe it will be a strong asset for us.

Special thanks to Khaled Saba, Sales and Regional Director of Swarovski Optik for arranging this interview for H&S which makes for a very great and memorable experience.

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exclusive interview

Interview with

Mr. Paul Saghbini International Hunter

It was the middle of February, cold and raining and the sky was overcast; and I was very happy. I had travelled from Dubai to Beirut to meet with Mr. Paul Saghbini, a hunter of some note and it had not rained in Dubai to any great extent throughout the winter and being British I do like to see a bit of rain now and again.

As luck would have it, Pascal, our Senior Sales person in Lebanon who was accompanying me, was able to find a parking space within a few meters of Paul’s apartment block. I like the rain but not so much that I wanted to get soaked to the skin before meeting a man of Paul’s status. The apartment block, located in an up market district of Beirut, looked similar to all the other high rise buildings in the area, in fact nothing looked out of the ordinary as we made our

Paul Saghbini

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way to the lift and finally to the door of Paul’s residence. All that would change once we stepped inside.

We were warmly greeted by Paul and shown into the salon and immediately offered coffee and cookies, and whilst Paul had gone to issue instructions to that effect to his housemaid, Pascal and I took a few minutes to take in the ambiance of the whole apartment. The salon was very tastefully decorated and furnished and contained an impressive array of articles and souvenirs related to hunting. The book shelves were filled with, literally, hundreds of books covering hunting and shooting, some were anecdotal, some were biographical some were reference books. All were neatly and systematically arranged, as we were later to find out, such that Paul could put his hand on any book he was looking for. Numerous photographs were strategically place depicting various pictures of Paul in shooting mode.

Some were with his shot quarry; some were with his shooting companions in various countries of the world. This man obviously had some stories to tell.

As we settled into the interview Paul started by telling us that he personally and the Lebanese in general have historical lineage in hunting for food, and as a general rule when Paul hunts, whatever he kills, he would hope

that it would be of benefi t in terms of food either for himself or for the trackers and guides that accompany him on his safaris.

Yes, he looks for trophy game but for Paul it is never just killing for the sake of killing. He has a respect for his quarry that only the true hunter possesses and is an advocate of Fair Chase hunting and is always ready to assist in the conservation of natural resources.

Spain

As with most boys, Paul started hunting with his father and his elder brother when he was five or six years old at which time the hunt was more formal than it tends to be today. He and his father and brother would hunt, “for the pot”, rather than purely for target practice and at the end of the war in 1995, hunting was stopped by a UN Resolution, but ironically the importation of guns was still allowed.

He stated that there is currently no particular law or a regulation that lays out the specific requirements of hunting or firearms possession in Lebanon, however, a draft law has been on the books since 2004 but this is still to be formalized and Paul, along with others, are working with the government to get it enacted.

I then asked him what guns he uses and his answer sounded like a who’s who, or what’s what, of the fire arms industry as over the

years he has shot with many. He currently has licenses for 18 guns, four of which are heritage guns passed down to him by his father who was given them by his grandfather. One of his most versatile guns is his .308 rifle but he says that the ammunition that is available is not so good. In terms of shotguns he has, 12 gauge, 20 gauge and 28 gauge, this latter one being the one he will use most when wing shooting.

He admits it is a challenging caliber but he says it make for a better shooter in the long run as accuracy is much more important than say when using a 12g with its significantly wider shot spread. With the smaller caliber you have to get closer to the birds so you have to know the character of the bird to be able to stalk it. He admits that the adrenalin rush he gets from stalking small birds can be the same as when he is stalking a cape buffalo, but he was quick to add that a bird is far less likely to kill you than a cape buffalo. Paul always looks for the quality of the hunt and not the quantity.

Many people, he admits, go out to see how many birds they can kill in a morning. With Paul his pleasure comes from perfecting his stalk and making sure that he dispatches his birds’ cleanly and swiftly, this to him is more ›

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exclusive interview

satisfying than large numbers. If he is duck or geese shooting he imposes a personal bag limit on himself of about 15 birds maximum.

He is happy always to leave some birds for another day.

He also has a rare over and under shotgun specimen that has a 20g top barrel and a .410 bottom barrel. He also has another rather unique shotgun which is a 9mm, similar to a .410 and is known as a garden gun due to the limited range and lethality of the ammunition.

If he is on a hunt in other countries he would tend to rent the weapon from the Outfi tter as it save a lot of paper work and hassle in transporting firearms by plane and taking them thru customs of a foreign country. In a lot of countries, Paul explained, the hunter has to prove to the guide or professional hunter that he is competent to use the gun by firing the weapon at targets on a range prior to the hunt proper.

Spain

I then asked Paul where he had hunted and it did not come as much of a surprise to learn that he had hunted on just about every continent in the word. One such place is close by and that is Cyprus where Paul has a property and where he goes on a regular basis. He says that Cyprus is more forward when it comes to hunting as they have laws specific to the sport. As do Jordan. In Cyprus for example there are specific areas reserved for hunting and each area is identified each year and every year one area will be closed for a five year period to enable the game and the environment to recover.

experiences. The first had to be the first time he shot birds with the 9mm garden gun in his younger days, and in terms of big game, he admitted that the South African Cape Buffalo hunt was memorable but the one hunt that he really enjoyed was hunting Dall Sheep in Canada because the conditions and the environment are unique, and the combination of the mountainous snowy terrain and the quality of the Sheep themselves made the total experience the greatest. He, as a true hunter, does not consider a hunt is satisfying unless there is a degree of difficulty in it.

This does not necessarily always mean only physical difficulty, but the quarry always has to be a challenge, whether it’s doves in Cyprus or Buffalo in South Africa. The challenge is taking on the quarry in its own environment.

Paul told me that he had hunted in the UK a lot; he has stalked deer in Scotland and particularly enjoys the testing driven high pheasant you get in England. He has hunted Bears and Mouflon Sheep and Ibex in Iran and wild boar in the Basra swamps. Also in Iraq he has wing shot Francolin, Ducks, and Partridge. At the other end of the scale he has stalked and killed the most dangerous of big game, the Cape buffalo, but when asked which gave him the most satisfaction he said that there are two instances that he enjoyed the most and they were two diverse hunting

I asked Paul if he could shoot predators such as lions and tigers and he said that these animals should be respected and hunting them is not to his liking. If there was a case that one was injured or a danger to the population then of course he would consider it. In one of his hunts in Tanzania he was charged by an Elephant and prior to the hunt the PH told him that if that happens then he should shoot once to scare it it, second time to stun it and the third time to kill if it necessary. Needles to say the elephant was deterred from continuing its attack. He has no qualms about

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killing buffalo or even elephant as the meat is always used by the natives whose village is given the meat and the carcass, as it is the whole animal that is used, including the hide and the bones.

Purely by the number of countries he has hunted prevents me from reproducing all his experiences, as you will see from the list of his hunting locations below.

• Azerbaijan • Bulgaria • Canada • Cyprus • Czech Republic • England • Egypt • France • Hungary • Iran • Iraq • Jordan • Lebanon

• Morocco • Poland • Romania • Scotland • South Africa • Senegal • Spain • Syria • Tanzania • Turkey • Tajikistan • Uzbekistan • Zimbabwe

When asked if he could identify a favorite country to hunt in he said that out of all the countries he has been to and all the game he has shot his ideal hunting country would be Lebanon. This is his home and birthplace, so he hopes that the government will soon regularize the hunting scene in Lebanon for him to be able to do this.

When I asked Paul what he enjoys most about hunting his reply is typical of the man. He says it is a combination of adventure, nostalgia, dreams, hopes, heritage, and comradeship.

He says that true hunting teaches a person ethics, which one should practice in every thing you do in life, not just hunting. He stated that more and more people are moving to the cities and the stress of daily life there can take you to an early grave. To get back to nature is a wonderful thing, it is a stress reliever and nature is there for all to enjoy and hunters world wide do an enormous amount of conservation work which everyone benefi ts from in one form or another, as well as providing employment for millions of people the world over I asked him if he had a dream for hunting in Lebanon and he said that he loves to hunt but he is a committed environmentalist as well and is concerned about the wild life, both ora and fauna, in Lebanon and would love to see an organization, similar in structure to Solidere, where people can buy shares and the capital raised would go to formalizing and organizing the hunting scene in Lebanon.

The company would also be concerned with conservation and the environment. It could develop reserves, perhaps the Bekaa Valley

could be one location, and to introduce and expand species of animals on the reserves with hunting carried out in a regulated manner. He suggested that the company could also have an educational mandate which sponsors universities to provide modules in conservation and environmental protection to educate the younger generation on how to take care of the environment.

I asked him if, over time, there were any people who inuenced him in his sport. He said that one person that he was able to learn from was, Raymond Najjar. He said that Raymond, a master firearms restorer and an artisan when working with metal, wood and leather as a hobby, taught him what to look for in a weapon and how to judge a gun.

Another person who Paul holds in very high esteem is his close friend and hunting companion the late, Bernard Fattal. Before Mr. Fattal’s untimely death Paul and Bernard would go on many hunting expeditions together and shared numerous adventures, as is evidenced by the photographs on display of the two of them on various safaris. It is obvious that he is sorely missed by Paul who holds many fond memories of their trips together. Paul stated that he was a true

gentleman and one of the best hunters he ever knew and his love and dedication to the sport and the environment was an example to everyone.

Before we left Paul took Pascal and me on a tour of the rest of his apartment. It was an amazing experience. There were more books on the subject of hunting and shooting as well as birds of all nations, as Paul is also and avid ornithologist. There were many hunting related photographs as well as some of his trophies hanging on the wall which included numerous breeds of deer and many pairs of mounted wild boar tusks of which, he assured us, all the meat was processed and put to good use.

He showed us some of his guns which he took from his securely locked cabinet. We were shown the relatively tiny 9mm garden shotgun, as well as his more potent weapons, and when asked if he had a favorite he stated that each of his guns had a special place for him as he had used them all at one time or another and each had good memories. He accepted that the modern guns using modern technology had to be admired, but for him he still favored the older guns that were hand made by craftsmen and had a personal touch and whose fi t and action, as he proved to us, were as good today as they were back when they were first made, despite having thousands of round put through them.

He also showed us spears and shields and bow and arrows from remote African tribes that he bought back as souvenirs emphasizing his interest in alternative weapons and hunting methods.

Romania

We were most fortunate, and grateful, that Paul gave us over four hours of his time and it was clear from very early on that he has a computer like data base in his head which you can access on any hunting and conservation subject that you want to know about. His passion and dedication to ethical hunting is obvious and is the type of hunter that we all should aspire to be.

Richard Camm.

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hunting season

The Hunt in Iceland Goose Hunting

lines of brightly painted concrete houses.

Iceland is volcanically and geologically very active. This defines the landscape in various ways. The interior mainly consists of a plateau characterized by sand fields, mountains and glaciers, while many large glacial rivers ow to the sea through the lowlands. Warmed by the Gulf Stream, Iceland has a temperate climate relative to its latitude.

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The only indigenous mammals are the arctic fox and the field mouse. Around 1780, European Reindeer was imported from Norway. It has survived in the wild highlands of East Iceland and has never been domesticated. Another mammal, the mink was unfortunately introduced into Iceland in 1930 for fur farming. Soon it escaped into the wild and has spread all over Iceland, seriously

Iceland is the 3rd largest island in the world. It is located in the North Atlantic Ocean between continental Europe and Greenland. The country has a population of about 320,000 and a total area of 103,000 sq km.

The capital and the most populous city is Reykjavik. The city is different from other European cities. It is the world’s northernmost capital, and one of the newest, having established itself only in the late 19th century. Reykjavik offers all the pleasures of a modern European city and additionally an interesting old town, white-washed wooden buildings, and

damaging Iceland birdlife. Arctic fox is hunted all year, but Reindeer is subject to draw.

When it comes to bird species in Iceland, there are many. Those that can be hunted are puffins and their seabird relatives, 3 goose species (Greylag, Pinkfoot and Barnacle geese), 7 Duck species, and Rock Ptarmigan.

Goose hunting has become a very popular sport in Iceland. There are plenty of geese on the island as four species fly from mainland Europe, two of which that lay their eggs in Iceland while the other two use Iceland as a stopover on their way even further north.

The resident geese are the Greylag goose and the pink footed goose. The stop overs are the barnacle goose and the white fronted goose as well as the Brent goose. These cannot be hunted as they are protected.

Many hunters from all over the world venture out into the wild of Iceland for the truly fantastic experience of goose hunting. Hunting Pink foot geese in the mountains is a favorite as it is unique and not available anywhere else but in Iceland.

Hunting season is from August 20th until March 15th. In reality, the season ends when the geese migrate to UK late October. There are usually 4 different types of hunts that depend on hunting areas, dates and goose species.

• August 20th - September 10th - Pink foot and Greylag geese over ponds at dusk. Morning hunts may be possible.

• September 10th - 20th - Greylag geese are hunted over fields in the mornings.

• September 20th - October 20th - Greylag geese and Pink foot geese are hunter over fields.

• September 25th - October 10th - All 3 available goose species are hunter in the mornings.

During your hunt in Iceland, you should carry a 3-Shot Semi-Auto, Pump or O/U Shotguns in 12 gauge. Warm, waterproof waterfowl

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camouflage clothing, warm underwear and knee high rubber boots. Temperatures can vary from 30° - 60° F, but generally the temperature is 40° to 50° F, except in the early morning, when it can be colder.

Hunting conditions are ideal, natural and relaxing in Iceland with the shooting usually taking place at dusk and dawn during the main hunting season. The geese normally congregate in concentrated flocks and therefore one can expect to shoot any number. Also - presently, there is no bag limit. Hunting geese in Iceland is sure to be a memorable experience for all hunters!

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h&s Issue 05 l May 2011

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big game hunting

Moose Hunting In My Country,

Sweden

By Jan Sjรถlin

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Sweden, from south to north, is a long country (about 1570 km). Every year I drive by car to Jämtland in central Sweden, where moose hunting season begins in September.

The hunting area is located quite near the border to Norway, and the weather, at this time, can be so nice with fresh chilly air but during the winter months it offers snow and ice and well below freezing temperature.

From my house in the south of Sweden I need to drive about 1000 km to reach our goal for moose hunting in Jämtland. We prepare ourselves by packing the tent, sleeping bags and food sufficient for a week. When we arrive at our campsite in the middle of nowhere it is already dark, so the tent is erected immediately and some food is cooked over the log fire and a night's sleep is waiting for us and is really necessary. Tomorrow will be a long day and a lot of kilometers will be covered.

Usually we have permission to shoot seven moose. The shooting of moose follows strict rules to keep the quality and conservation of the population. Also the security requirements are stringent; each hunter should wear a red baseball cap or jacket. To obtain permission to shoot moose you must also have passed a shooting test. This consists of a firing range in the open air and resembles the terrain where you would expect to find moose. Then a decoy moose figure is quickly presented to you and the shots have to hit in the elk's vital area; the heart and lungs.

sights without magnification. Most hunters are content to hunt moose with a .308 or .30-06, but some use even larger caliber rifles just to be on the safe side.

Dawn The next morning all hunters wake up before dawn and the dogs are fed and we provide ourselves with breakfast too. The backpack is packed with coffee and food and other necessities, site places are drawn, and all the hunters go to the place where they will spend many hours waiting for the elusive moose and confirmation from the drivers via two way radio when a moose is on its way towards them.

The dogs we use are Norwegian Elkhound or Jämthund. They try to locate the moose and try to keep it in motion. If the elk stops the dog starts to bark and then the nearest hunter tries to sneak into a good shooting position. On location in the forest the hunter should remain generally quiet as he waits for something to happen and there can be times when nothing happens. Anyhow, it is never completely uneventful. The forest has lots of black grouse and capercailzies, courting in the morning light to prevent you from becoming bored.

The silence is broken Far away a shot echos through the trees. One of the hunting team has shot at a bull moose who moved in range of the patiently waiting hunter. All hunters remain at their site place and their vigilance will increase - perhaps the the hunter missed and the quarry will move in my direction. After some time a message on our hunting radio comes through, a so called tracking rig, a dog in line has found the animal that did not get far. The shot was lethal and the big bull with his shovels, the sixteentags, was found. The marksman is of course very happy about the successful shot and also the size of the trophy. Far away from all roads we are now facing the hard work. We have to transport the carcass forward to the passable road which is far away. Fortunately, we have with us a track-driven machine that takes us over logs and stones. The power line corridors are always the best route to take the moose body as they are kept relatively clear for the power line maintenace crews.

Twilight Much work is still remaining. The moose is, of course, gutted on the spot where it was shot but now the skin must be removed and the body divided into four parts to be easily ›

Moose Caliber Moose are one of the biggest deer around and as such require a large caliber rifle to ensure that it is dispatched as humanly as possible. Moose hunting requires a bullet weight of at least 9 grams (139 grains) with the E 100 at least 2700 joules, or 10 grams (154 grains) with the E 100 at least 2000 joules. The bullet should be expandable and the riflescope should have a low magnification, such as from 1-6X. Many hunters use red dot

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handled. When the work is completed seven tired but happy hunters are joining around the campfire, making some food and talking about the day's experiences and observations. Some of us have seen elk at long distances with the aid of binoculars and these observations bode well for the next day. After many long discussions the hunters are, one by one, withdrawing to the tents to get a night's sleep. It does not take long until you can hear the loud snoring echoing in the wilderness.

The moose body has been delivered to the nearest village where it is stored in a cold room. From another moose shot during the day the head, with its horns, are placed a few yards from the tent until we are ready to take it home. The trophy is something that hunters like to keep as an exciting memory.

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A Tough Break. Or Not! The next morning, before the dawn, we discovered that the moose-head trophy was gone. During the night a bear had been there and had stolen the head. Hunger drove it into the tent camp site. After some tracking the head was found. It was gently chewed on but with scratches from the bear's tooth in the skull. Despite the chewing the trophy was not demolished, the bear had done a good job. Well at least it means that lighter boiling is required before mounting as nearly all the meat was gone. Now that the problem was solved, we could go on with the hunting.

The hunters took their positions and after an hour we heard a shot. Report on the radio: a bull is shot close to a small lake. The

animal was shot straight from the front and fell down immediately and the hunter was happy. However as he turned his back on the bull he heard a splash. The moose, in a final desperate effort, jumped into the lake and tried to swim to the other side. During the swim the hunter managed to put a shot through the head of the animal and it died immediately. The problem now was that the moose bull is now in the middle of the lake!

The Rescue Action How could we solve this problem? One of the younger members of the group was chosen, somewhat against his will, to swim out with a rope and put it around the horns.

Lucky enough he had the rope with him. At the waterline there was so much mud that his feet were sucked down and threatened to hold him back. After many problems he managed to swim out to the moose, tie the rope around the horns and to swim back. By joined forces we got the moose’s body almost on shore. When we got it to the mud it got stuck. Now the tracked machine must help us. We would not have been able to get the moose body salvaged without the machines help.

Return Home Friendship, shared experiences and amazing memories characterize these wilderness hunts. Everyone helps out, breakfast and dinner is cooked as a team where every hunter has one day as,” Head Responsible”.

Everyone gets a part of the game outcome, one quarter of the moose; the back or front part; it may be determined by drawing lots.

In the long run this will work out to be quite fair. So, now we pack the equipment together and all of us go home with a generous ration of meat. But, best of all is the wonderful enduring memories and experiences.

Some facts about Moose: In the world there are seven different races of moose. In Sweden we have, Alces Alces, while the much bigger in Alaska belongs to the breed Alces Gigas.

• During the summer there are between 300 000 - 400 000 moose in Sweden.

• There are about 250 000 hunters taking part of moose hunting every year.

• They shoot about 100 000 moose.

• Moose can weigh up to 500 kg and is 2 meters in height.

• Moose rut in late September-early October.

• Calves are born in late May, weighing about 10-15 kg

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gunmaker legacies

260 years of

Sauer&Sohn A vast store of unique experience

Enduring value is the key to the 260 years of J. P. Sauer & Sohn. The clear commitment to mechanical precision, uncompromising quality and timeless design has long outlived all ephemeral fashions and trends.

Founded in Suhl, given a new lease of life in EckernfĂśrde and refined to perfection in Isny: this is why Sauer & Sohn is not only celebrating 2011 as the oldest firearms factory in Germany and the second-oldest firearms factory in the world, but much more - as

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a successful company with a heritage of tradition and a clear view of what the future will bring. In celebration of this, the factory, in its new home in Isny, has created 260 limited anniversary editions of the S202 and S303 models, each with a special 260-year engraving on the housing and scope (a choice of Zeiss or Swarovski), luxury stock wood and a gold-plated trigger. Each and every one a classical hunting rie, built for more than just one generation of hunters - just as it was 260 years ago.

S 303 Classic XT Hunting in extreme conditions demands an extreme rifle: the new SAUER 303 Classic XT with synthetic stock.

Nothing in the construction of the proven S 303 has been changed. But a break with its familiar looks has now been made with its newly designed, absolutely unbreakable synthetic stock in duo-tone design. We chose a brown-grey shade that not only melts ideally into the background and achieves an excellent

camouflage effect, but also differentiates our product from its competitors as a trendsetting design statement.

The butt is stocked neutrally with the straight comb. Thanks to perfectly integrated, black elastomer inlays on the pistol grip, the stock is ideal for both left- and right-handed users. The grip inlays themselves guarantee optimum grip characteristics under any imaginable weather conditions and ensure perfect mastery of the weapon at all times.

A separate elastomer inlay on the comb offers an additional, comfortable feeling of warmth on cold days or long winter nights.

The rounded form of the underside of the fore-end with three rubber insets guarantees a non-slip grip for perfect aiming. The new, tapered fore-end tip emphasises the overall dynamic look of the 303.

Whether in the icy cold or baking heat, the new synthetic stock makes the SAUER 303 Classic XT a weapon for every season and every imaginable hunting situation. Because only a bolt action rifle guarantees hunters the tremendous advantage of being able to raise, aim and shoot precisely in one smooth motion - whether deer stalking in summer, waiting for does on a rainy autumn day or driving boar in winter.

Configurations – S 303 Classic XT Light-metal receiver // Six lockings lucks engage directly into the barrel // Hand cocking system // Direct trigger // Rust protection with Nitrobond-X® // Detachable magazine for 2 and 5 or 4 rounds (9,3x62) // 51- or 56-cm-barrel (20 or 22 Inch) // // Calibre 7x64, .3006, 8x57 IS, 9,3x62, .300 Win. Mag. // High contrast sights // Synthetic stock with straight comb and anti-slip elastomer inlays for righthand and lefthand shooters either.

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S 303 GTI The new SAUER 303 GTI creates a perfect synchronisation of ergonomics, precision and speed - and becomes even more effective.

Anyone having to reload manually between shots when out hunting, as is the case with repeaters, is at a clear disadvantage. Because the bolt action S 303 offers hunters the enormous benefi t of being able to raise, aim and fire in one smooth motion. With the new SAUER Synchro thumb-hole stock, the

‘GTI’ brings previously unknown benefi ts with regard to aiming and trigger control as the hand and shooting arm remain completely relaxed and the trigger finger always finds the absolutely identical position on the trigger which, in turn, minimises trigger errors and increases the proportion of precise hits.

At the same time, the ‘Synchro’ is the first stock with a comb height that allows hunters to look through the riflescope immediately after firing without any readjustment. What’s

more, the screw-mounted, detachable muzzle brake absorbs up to 30 per cent of the recoil energy and reduces the amount of kick-up so that the weapon remains almost automatically on target.

With the SAUER 303 GTI, hunters therefore have an extremely effective rifle for driven hunts or hunting from raised hides that even makes right and left shots not such a rare occasion.

Configurations – S 303 GTI Light-metal receiver // Six lockings lucks engage directly into the barrel // Hand cocking system // Direct trigger // Rust protection with Nitrobond-X® // Detachable magazine for 2 and 5 or 4 rounds (9,3x62) // High contrast sights // Synchro thumb hole stock for better weapon and trigger control // Driven hunt battue rib // 51-cm-barrel 51 cm (20 Inch) // Detachable SAUER muzzle break (reduces recoil up to 30 per cent) // Calibre 7x64, .3006, 8x57 IS, 9,3x62, .300 Win. Mag. // Available as Classic or Elegance version.

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gunmaker legacies

Gun Makers Legacy

Japanese

Manufacturing

By Richard Camm

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There was a time when Japanese made items were regarded as somewhat inferior to those of the western world. This was a good few years ago now and time has moved on and now Japan is synonymous with quality products both in the design and the manufacture. Their cameras and electrical equipment as well as their motor industry and most anything else that they make is looked on as being equal if not better than anything you can buy from other countries.

This also can be said of firearms and two of the arguably most famous brands are SKB and Miroku.

SKB SKB are located in Tokyo and started manufacturing firearms as early as 1855. This came about by the appointment of 20 years old, Shigyo Sakaba, as gunsmith by the feudal lord for the then dominant Mito clan from the north east of Tokyo. Shigyo Sakaba was, up till this time, working for the clan’s small weapons repair shop when it was decided that the clan should become self sufficient in firearms, reliant on no one from outside. So from this

modest enterprise SKB, whose name is taken from Mr. SaKaBa,s last name and who is said to be the companies founder, is today one of Japans premier firearms manufacturers utilizing the latest cad/cam technology alongside good old fashioned craftsmanship to produce weapons of outstanding quality.

The range include; Over and Under, Side by Side, Semi Automatic, Single Barrel trap guns and Pump Action shot guns in all the popular calibers and premier grade styles.

To celebrate its 150 anniversary, SKB produced a commemorative strictly limited edition number of outstanding quality shotguns in 12 gauge and 20 gauge. These guns have the highest grade American Walnut wood and top quality engraving and if you can get your hands on one you will be very lucky as they are widely sort after. SKB’s worldwide distribution network is very impressive having upwards of 5000 SKB outlets in the US alone as well as all the major cities in the world. Both clay and field guns are popular with shooters as they are renowned for their manufacturing quality and as well the true value for money they represent.

Miroku The first time I picked up and fired a shotgun was at a, Try the Sport Day, in my home town in the UK. I was at a game fair at the time and you paid the equivalent of around US$20.00 for a box of shells, the use of the gun and half an hour’s tuition. From that time I was hooked. When I asked my instructor what the make of the gun was he told me it was a, Miroku. Now being new to the game I heard, Morocco, as in the country, and for a while I thought that was the name of the manufacturer. I now know better of course, and I have had a few Miroku shotguns of my own and loved them. ›

Miroku MK38 Teague Grade 5

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Belgium Company, Fabrique National, they do however have a reputation for rugged quality and reliability which can be bought for a reasonable price. One of my own personal experiences is with a Miroku 3800, grade five, and I have to say the quality of wood and durability of the action, which stayed tight despite hundreds of thousands of rounds being put through it was exceptional.

There is a loyal following of Miroku shooters throughout the world and their guns have won top prizes in many prestigious competitions. The range is extensive, so there is a Miroku for every clay discipline and they do make good game guns as well, and they also produce Browning rifles, both semi auto, auto and bolt action.

Japan Guns So how did it all start? As with SKB it started in the 19th century, but a little later than SKB, 1893 to be exact. A gunsmith by the name of Kuraji Miroku started to produce hand made hunting weapons in the Kochi district which is a mountainous region that had an abundance of deer, wild boar and other wild life. Back in those days industry was more to do with the land than manufacturing so the mountains and forests were populated with more people than today, and these people hunted for their food, so hunting weapons were in demand.

It was not only shotguns that Miroku made and during the 1930s the company, now run by, Bukichi Miroku, the son of the founder, was making all sorts of weapons from colt style hand guns and even to harpoons. During World War II, Miroku made weapons for the Japanese army and after the defeat of Japan in 1945, manufacturing of weapons was suspended until 1951, at which time it was allowed to reestablish itself and restarted to make hunting firearms.

So jumping forward to today to Miroku’s newer factory in Nangoku city, whose inhabitants currently number around 50,000

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and where the main form of employment is farming and small businesses, but nestling amongst all of this is the Miroku factory, consisting of a number of un-impressive low rise buildings covering an area of about 4500 square meters. No matter how uninspiring the building appear the products that come through their doors are any thing but. The quality has to be up to the mark considering that they will manufacture in the region of 140,000 rifles and shotguns each year for that most famous of firearms manufacturer, Browning, and have been doing so since 1966.

Whilst the numbers supplied is down from 200,000 a few years ago it still today sends 70% of its production to Browning, who owns 7.8% of Miroku.

Due to a downturn is sales of firearms generally Miroku has diversified into making high end wooden steering wheels and gear stick knobs, as well as machine tool parts, in an effort to increase its revenue. Despite its diversification into other products the shotguns produced by Miroku have earned the company an enviable reputation. Whilst it is accepted that they cannot compare with the top end Browning guns made at the

Both SKB and Miroku rely on automation to produce their guns competitively, as do many manufacturers today, but in both cases the machine tools used are the best in the world and a good deal of hand finishing is still undertaken.

The stock blanks are machine cut but finished by hand, the pattern of the engraving is initially machine stamped but then chased out by hand, and again it is hand work that finishes the fi t of the action to the barrels with the use of candle soot or fine colored powder.

After the barrels have been connected to the monoblock the joint is checked for strength on the very latest ultra sound machines, but after that it is the human eye that makes sure they are straight.

So whilst it would be nice to own a high grade Italian or Belgium sporter, if it’s a good solid, reliable, work horse, that is very attractive to look at and something that you would not be ashamed to take on to any completion shooting ground or whilst standing at the side of another hunter in the driven pheasant line, you will not be let down by a good value for money Japanese gun. I wasn’t.

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H o r s h Ta b e t M a i n R o a d Issue 05 l May 2011 i n fh&s o@ s i l v e r d e c o 111 .com

cartridge legacies

Power Max Bonded™ Super-X® Power Max Bonded™ is specifically designed for the whitetail deer hunter and takes the time-proven jacketed bullet design to a new level of performance at an affordable price.

Key features of the Super-X bullet include: Protected hollow point PHP design, lead core bonded to jacket with proprietary process, massive frontal area of mushroom is more than double original diameter, lead remains bonded to jacket after impact.

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1. PROTECTED HOLLOW POINT BULLET

1

PROTECTED HOLLOW POINT • Less tip damage • Consistent upset • Improve ballistic performances

2. BONDED BULLET

2

The proprietary bonding process with the application of heat and flux permanently fuses the lead to the gilding metal jacket causing the lead core and jacket to act as a unit during expansion resulting in improved penetration and retained weight while still providing quick Knock Down typical of a traditionnal soft point bullet.

LEAD CORE BONDED TO JACKET • Higher retained weight • Excellent knock down power • Deeper penetration

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The Protected Hollow Point (PHP) design helps to: • Generate a fast expansion • Improve ballistic performances • To maximize upset at a variety of ranges and impact velocities

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hunting in luxury

Land Rover LR4

New features for 2011 ensure LR4 remains the most capable all-round vehicle

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A Brief History • Winner of 20 awards during the last year • New Gradient Acceleration Control • New Hill Start Assist • Three new paint colours offer customers more choice • Land Rover grille badge colour change for a more contemporary look For 2011, the LR4 is enhanced by improvements to the Terrain Response™ system in the form of Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control. There are also three new exterior paint colours offering customers a broader choice.

“The LR4 remains one of the most capable and versatile vehicles on and off the road.

It’s the ideal tow vehicle, can tackle the most challenging off-road conditions & delivers superb on-road refinement to rival the best executive saloons. As the ultimate all purpose vehicle, the LR4 is in a class of its own,” says Phil Popham, Managing Director.

guided fuel injection system delivering fuel at a pressure of up to 2175psi (150bar) directly to each cylinder. The injectors are positioned to deliver fuel precisely to the centre of the combustion chamber for maximum air-fuel mixing and accurate combustion control.

The charge cooling effects of the direct injection system allow a high compression ratio of 11.5:1 which further improves engine efficiency. During the engine warm-up phase, the combustion system employs multiple injection mode strategies to deliver 50 percent more heat for fast catalyst warm-up and substantially reduced emissions.

A number of clever design features include the industry-first, torque-actuated variable camshaft timing on all four cams. Unlike conventional systems which rely on oil pressure, these are actuated by the positive and negative torques generated by the opening and closing of the valves, reducing energy consumption. Cam profile switching (CPS) selects either a profile suitable for low speed running or another which gives increased lift for high performance. This provides the LR4 with exceptional lowend torque to negotiate demanding terrain and allows it to become fleet of foot when conditions allow.

Torque and power is also optimised by a variable inlet manifold which changes the length of its eight inlet tracts. The manifold switches between a 680mm inlet tract to provide high torque at low revs and a 350mm inlet path allowing maximum power

at high revs. The precise position is optimised throughout the rev range at all times. The engine also features a unique reverse flow cooling system where coolant passes through the cylinder heads before the block. This allows the heads to remain cooler and the knock threshold is pushed further back for greater efficiency.

An oil to water heat exchanger also transfers heat from the coolant to the engine oil.

These features promote faster engine warmup for reduced emissions. Frictional losses have been reduced by the use of DiamondLike Carbon Coating (DLC) on some components, an intelligent oil pump pressure relief valve (PRV) to optimise oil pressure and the use of lower viscosity 5W-20 oil further reduces parasitic losses without compromising durability.

“The LR-V8 engine set new standards for efficiency and performance when we introduced it last year. The combination of advanced technology and light weight make it an ideal power unit for the LR4, complementing both its off-road and on-road capability,” says Murray Dietsch, Director of Land Rover Programmes. ›

Outstanding V8 engine powers the LR4 range for 2011 The astonishing 5.0 LR-V8 naturally aspirated engine, brand new in 2011 and designed specifically with Land Rover vehicles in mind, remains in the LR4 line-up unchanged for the 2011 model year.

The 5.0 LR-V8 produces 375PS and 510Nm torque with low CO2 emissions of 328g/km.

One of the secrets of the V8’s efficiency is the centrally-mounted, multi-hole, spray-

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Superb 6-speed automatic transmission The LR-V8 drives through the ultra-refined ZF HP28 6-speed automatic transmission.

Its characteristics have been optimised

by Land Rover engineers to provide the same class-leading response, with rapid and refined shifts. The superior power and torque characteristics of the engines make it possible to actuate the transmission’s lock-up clutches much earlier in each gear, reducing slip through the hydraulic torque converter, optimising both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Advanced chassis, suspension and brakes The LR4 suspension system was substantially revised in 2011 with changes to roll centres, anti roll bars, suspension knuckles, damper bushes and the addition of a variable ratio steering rack for greater stability during high speed cruising and increased sensitivity at acute steering angles. More powerful brakes comprised twin-piston sliding callipers with 360mm ventilated discs at the front and single piston with 350mm ventilated discs at the rear. The understeer control system, which intervenes by automatically slowing the vehicle to bring it back under driver control, was also revised. These features remain unchanged in 2011 for all versions of the LR4.

Off-road ability gets even better in 2011 with two new features When it comes to off-road ability, Land Rover vehicles are acknowledged as setting the standards for others to follow. For 2011, there are two additional functions, Hill Start Assist and Gradient Acceleration Control.

Hill Start Assist Hill Start Assist retains the initial driver-

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generated brake pressure long enough for the foot to move from brake pedal to throttle without the car rolling backwards.

The brake is released after a sufficient time has elapsed or when the engine is supplying enough torque to move the car up the hill. Hill Start Assist is always available, not selectable, and neither is its operation indicated to the driver.

Gradient Acceleration Control Gradient Acceleration Control is designed to provide safety cover on severe gradients when the driver does not have Hill Descent Control engaged. By pressurising the brake system, Gradient Acceleration Control slows the car to a limit determined by the throttle position when the car is descending the slope in the driver’s intended direction of travel.

This includes descending the slope forwards in drive, or rearwards in reverse. Otherwise (such as descending while facing up the gradient with Drive selected) Gradient Acceleration Control restricts speed to 5km/h for up to 20 seconds, allowing the driver to regain proper control.

“These new all-terrain enhancements make sure the LR4 stays ahead of its competitors when it comes to genuine off-road ability.

Both are subtle but effective additions which deliver an added layer of safety to drivers who want to venture further afield,” says Nick Veale, Vehicle Engineering Manager.

Styling enhancements and new identities for LR4 The LR4 gets three exciting new paint colours for 2011, Fuji White, Baltic Blue and Siberian Silver. One small, but important feature is the Land Rover oval badge which has been given a colour change from gold on green to silver on green creating a more contemporary look. The badge appears on the grille, tailgate, steering wheel and wheel centre caps.

The LR4 interior combines smooth, flowing surfaces and the minimum number of controls for an uncluttered environment.

e_Terrain Technologies boost economy and lower CO2 emissions The new LR4 is packed with features aimed at reducing fuel consumption and reducing CO2 emissions. The LR-V8’s high pressure, spray guided direct injection system optimises combustion while the variable camshaft timing system, camshaft profile switching and variable inlet manifold all join forces to ensure the engine is optimised for

fuel efficiency throughout the range. Thanks to the advanced cooling system, faster warm-up also improves fuel economy as do the low friction design features.

Engines have also been optimised for lowend torque as well as economy, making it possible to activate the lock-up clutch of the ZF HP28 automatic transmission at lower speed. This reduces ‘slip’ in the hydraulic torque converter improving both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The higher torque at lower rpm also enables longer gearing for more economical cruising. The LR4 incorporates several other energy saving features too. At standstill, the idle speed of the LR-V8 is 700rpm, using the minimum of fuel without compromising refinement.

An Intelligent Power Management System includes Smart Regenerative Charging, so whenever possible the alternator charges the battery when it is most economical to do so, such as when the car is coasting rather than accelerating.

Aerodynamic features at the front end such as the lower chin spoiler and front wheel deflectors help to reduce drag by increasing underfloor airflow. The air conditioning pump is driven through a clutch which disengages when the air conditioning is not in use, reducing parasitic losses and delivering improvements in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. ›

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hunting in luxury

e_TERRAIN TECHNOLOGIES in summary: • Cutting edge LR-V8 engine technology • Engine calibration optimised • Low engine idle speeds • Reduced torque-converter slip • Higher torque, allowing longer gearing • Intelligent Power Management System (IPMS) including smart regenerative charging • Clutched air conditioning pump to reduce parasitic losses • Improved aerodynamics FEATURE

LR-V6 4.0 PETROL

5.0L V8 PETROL

No. of seats

7

7

Length (inc. number plate plinth)

mm / inch

4829 / 190.1

4829 / 190.1

Width with mirrors folded

mm / inch

2022 / 79.6

2022 / 79.6

Max height Fixed Roof

mm / inch

1887 / 74.3 (std ride height - 4CAS)

1887 / 74.3 (std ride height - 4CAS)

Wheelbase

mm / inch

2885 / 113.6

2885 / 113.6

Track - front (rear) at ground level

mm / inch

1605 (1612.5) / 63.2 (63.5)

1605 (1612.5) / 63.2 (63.5)

Wading Depth

mm / inch

700 / 27.56 (off road height )

700 / 27.56 (off road height )

kg / lbs

3500 / 7716

3500 / 7716

Loadspace volume - Maximum behind row 2

litres / cu. feet

1260 / 44.5

1260 / 44.5

Loadspace volume - Maximum behind row 1

litres / cu. feet

2558 / 90.3

2558 / 90.3

Rear suspension

type

Air sprung Independent double wishbone

Air sprung Independent double wishbone

Front Brakes

type

Ventilated disc

Ventilated disc

mm / inch

317 / 12.480

360 / 14.173

type

Ventilated disc

Ventilated disc

mm / inch

325 / 12.795

350 / 13.779

type

ZF HP26 (6 speed auto)

ZF HP28 (6 speed auto)

type

Full time 4 wheel drive with std locking centre differential. Optional locking rear axle differential available with Air Suspension + Terrain Response™

Full time 4 wheel drive with std locking centre differential. Optional locking rear axle differential available with Air Suspension + Terrain Response™

Technically permissible maximum towable mass

Front Brakes Diameter Rear Brakes Rear Brakes Diameter Transmission Four wheel drive system Overall Gearing

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Auto

1st (High / Low)

:1

15.558 / 45.581

14.765 / 43.259

2nd (High / Low)

:1

8.723 / 25.588

8.284 / 24.284

3rd (High / Low)

:1

5.673 / 16.636

5.384 / 15.788

4th (High / Low)

:1

4.263 / 12.496

4.046 / 11.859

5th (High / Low)

:1

3.234 / 9.474

3.069 / 8.992

6th (High / Low)

:1

2.557 / 7.535

2.446 / 7.151

Reverse (High / Low)

:1

12.693 / 37.151

12.047 / 35.258

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Auto

Auto

Acceleration :- 0-60 mph (0-96 kph)

sec

10.8

7.5

Acceleration :- 0-100 kph

sec

11.6

7.9

mph (kph)

112 (180)

121 (195)

Top speed

Max speed in gears (High Range) - Autos in 'D', not tip or sport 1st

mph (kph)

25.99 (41.82)

33 (53)

2d

mph (kph)

47.14 (75.85)

66 (107)

3rd

mph (kph)

68.25 (109.81)

104 (167)

4th

mph (kph)

89.24 (143.59)

121 (195)

5th

mph (kph)

112 (180)

121 (195)

6th

mph (kph)

112 (180)

121 (195)

Max speed in gears (Low Range) - Autos in 'D', not tip or sport 1st

mph (kph)

8.17 (13.15)

11 (18)

2d

mph (kph)

14.81 (23.83)

22 (36)

3rd

mph (kph)

23.28 (37.45)

35 (57)

4th

mph (kph)

32.96 (53.03)

47 (75)

5th

mph (kph)

41.54 (66.84)

58 (94)

6th

mph (kph)

60.16 (96.8)

81 (130)

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hunter's lodge

Tuscany’s Charm

Castello di Vicarello

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Situated in Maremma, Tuscany, there is a beautiful castle that sits on a hill and overlooks the country side. The beauty of the place seems like a dream. Such places are often described in books and films but who knew that it actually existed?

Castello di Vicarello has been around since 1100 and it is an absolute Tuscan paradise.

Travelers seek this boutique hotel when they want to experience a total escape from the world we live in today.

For hunters, there is a hunting estate known as Valle di Buriano which is only 45 minutes away from Castello di Vicarello. The hunting estate is 1200 acres of hilly land behind Castigilone della Pescaia. It perpetuates the Maremma cultural and traditional phenomenon of wild boar hunting by organizing high level driven days.

Once you are done for the day on the hunting grounds, you may return to experience tranquil living at this boutique lodge. It is a

12th century castle, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves as well as beds of fragrant rosemary and lavender which makes it a true cornerstone of paradise. For the traveler with a unique and refined taste for passion, good food, wine and a sense of adventure, this is a destination where the informal becomes formal, and Tuscany is more Tuscan than ever.

Each room and villa in the lodge is different, with hand-picked furnishings, fabrics and accents. The exposed stone brick and wood of the structure provide a perfect framework for the harmonious mix of antiques, modern designs and Indonesian touches. The beds are adorned with the highest-quality Italian linen sheets. The views of the countryside, the two outdoor fresh-water pools, the magnificent garden that changes with the seasons, the beautiful spa, the vineyards, the olive groves, not to even mention the amazing food the staff prepares daily are all the marvellous facilities and amenities that the boutique hotel and lodge has to offer.

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hunter's lodge

In the wilderness

of Namibia

Bergzicht Game Lodge

Located in Namibia, the Bergzicht Game and Hunting Lodge is a beautiful farm, containing 14 different species of African plains game.

Namibia is a country of vast beauty and rich nature cultures. Its breathtaking unspoilt desert landscapes prove that this African country is the place to relax, unwind and experience the continent of Africa at its best.

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The lodge is located close to Windhoek International Airport and the accommodation it provides to its guests is absolutely divine.

All the modern luxuries that any guest can and will expect is provided at this heavenly Namibian Lodge. Guest suites are equipped with en suite bathrooms and spacious showers. All rooms are elegant and very

carefully and beautifully decorated. Rie racks, lamps and bedside tables are present in each and every room to allow for a more comfortable stay. Savannah sunsets can be enjoyed from the cool blue of the swimming pool as you enjoy traditional South African wines.

A typical hunting day at the Bergzicht Game Lodge usually starts bright and early at 6 am with a hearty breakfast. The hunting method employed at the Lodge is spotting and stalking until a shooting opportunity presents itself.

Depending on the success of the hunt, lunch will either be served at the lodge or on the plains. Huntable plains game includes Eland, Mountain Zebra, Oryx, Buffalo, Kudu, Black Wildebeest, Blue Wildebeest, Red Hartsbeest, Bluesbuck, Springbuck and Waterbuck. Besides the vast hunting activities, the Bergzicht Game Lodge is also a heaven for bird-watchers.

Namibia boasts over 600 species of birds.

The spectacular Namibian hunting lodge will leave you with an enjoyable experience greater than any other. The exceptional and awless service of the friendly and homely Namibian staff will also never be forgotten for as long as you live.

Kansimba Hunting Kansimba Game Lodge is situated in the heart of Namibia, north-west of Windhoek, the capital. It is an easy drive to all the major attractions, such as the Skeleton Coast, Etosha Game Park and the Namib Naukluft Park. Namibia is generally hot in the summer and mild in winter, with summer rainfall. Best game viewing is during the winter months (May to September) when it is dry and cool, and game is more likely to be found near the water holes.

The Namibian hunting season officially opens from 1 February to 30 November. All hunts take place in the natural habitat of each species, which offers an equal chance for both hunter and game. Hunts are generally

conducted on foot, although 4-wheel drive vehicles are used for accessing distant areas and selecting hides.

The hunting lodge consists of six luxuriously furnished rooms, with tiled oors and ensuite shower and toilet facilities. Meals in the traditional Africa style are served to all guests, with a wide selection of South African wines and liquor. The rooms overlook a pool and patio area, which in turn overlooks a waterhole, where many animals come to drink. The elephants may even at times drink from the swimming pool! The Lodge also has a whirlpool and sauna which can be enjoyed after a day of good hunting.

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hunting clothes

Deerhunter

Outdoor Clothing

3D-Sneaky Camouage

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3D-Sneaky Camoufl age The most soundless over garment set on the market The 3D Sneaky set is primarily intended for camouflage use, blending in with nature. It has been developed for active hunters, but ornithologists will also find it very useful when studying bird and animal life. Deerhunter’s own Innovation camouflage pattern has been developed to provide maximum camouflage from the ground up to a height of 180cm. The set has been crafted using extremely light and soundless material.

The set consists of an anorak and trousers, and can be rolled into the anorak pocket, making it very compact and portable (also available as a jacket and poncho). A facemask, gloves, and camouflage net (4 and 6 m) are also available for the set.

Materials: 100% Polyester.

Anorak details: Anorak with a large front pocket which also becomes a storage bag for both anorak and trousers. The hood is fi tted with a mosquito net / facemask. The anorak has a drawstring in the hood and at the hips.

Trouser details: The trousers have elastic at the waist and feet, making them easy to pull on and off. A side opening provides free access to the inner layer of clothing.

Brenne The perfect suit for the driver, who only settles with the best The Brenne series has been specially developed for flush hunting in temperate climates. The jacket and trousers are 100% waterproof. The set is made from durable

Brenne

material which can handle passage through scrub and grass. The strong material protects your trousers from hawthorn and wet grass.

Ventilation under the arms ensures good breathability in an otherwise 100% watertight hunting outfi t.

The jacket has a large easy-to-clean game pocket and cartridge pocket, as well as other useful pockets in both the jacket and trousers, and a pleated back for good comfort. The jacket is available in green, or a mixture of green and orange.

Materials: 100% Polyester.

Jacket details: 100% waterproof, Ventilation under the arms, D-ring, Detachable hood, Large game pocket which is easy to clean, Handwarmer pocket, Inside cartridge pocket, Numerous functional pockets, Adjustable cuffs, Pleated back for good comfort and greater freedom of movement.

Pull-over Trousers details: 100% waterproof, Adjustable waist with belt, Front pockets with zipper, Back pockets.

Daytona Classic Rugged design and timeless series The updated Daytona Classic series offers an attractive classic hunting outfi t made from the strongest and best materials. The items are made from reinforced cotton with an added Deer-Tex® membrane that ensures the series is completely windproof, waterproof and breathable. The complete outfi t consists of a shooting jacket with a Deer-Tex® membrane, a vest, and trousers or zipped boot-cut trousers, with or without a DeerTex® membrane. The series also includes a cartridge belt and a flat cap or classic hat with a Deer-Tex® membrane.

Materials: 70% Cotton, 30% Polyester.

Membrane: Jacket with Deer-Tex® membrane. Trousers with or without DeerTex® membrane Jacket details: The jacket has a radio pocket, Large game pocket, ›

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hunting clothes

Detachable hood in collar. Many versatile pockets, Cartridge pocket (strap to keep the pocket open), Adjustable drawstring waste.

Vest details: Game pocket, Elasticised pocket for cartridges, Handwarmer pocket. Shooting vest details: Padded chest and shoulder protection, Spacious front pockets, Velcro adjustment at waist, Side slits for good freedom of movement, Two-way zipper. Trouser details (optional membrane and boot cut): Large thigh pocket with room for a knife (strap to hold the knife in place), Adjustable elastic at waist, Several versatile pockets, Trousers with boot cut have an extra zip on the leg.

Daytona Classic

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Game Stalker II

Game Stalker

Innovation & functionality from Deerhunter Game Stalker is a light and flexible hunting outfi t perfectly suited for traditional stalking and flush hunting. The set is extremely comfortable and made from soft, stretch material. Deer-Tex ® stretch laminate (10,000/10,000) makes the set windproof, waterproof and breathable.

The series includes a jacket, anorak, trousers, and a cap. The jacket and anorak both have concealed hoods in the collar. This also includes a practical face mosquito net. The

anorak has a large front pocket with openings on both sides as well as an extra pocket with a zipper. The jacket has two front pockets.

The trousers have three zipped pockets and can be adjusted at the ankles using press studs.

The Game Stalker series is available in adult and children’s sizes, in colours 378-Bark green and 40-Innovation. The jacket, anorak and trousers come in sizes S-3XL, and sizes 116 164 for children. A one-size cap is available for both the adult and child sets. Adult gloves are available in sizes M - 2XL, with a Deer-Tex® membrane.

Game Stalker

Materials: 100% Polyester with TPU Stretch

Membrane: Deer-Tex ® membrane Jacket details: Radio pocket with waterproof zipper, Mosquito net which can be concealed in the collar, Adjustable hood, Waterproof zippers, Two front pockets, Ventilation under sleeves Adjustable wrist, Concealed key fastener in inside pocket Anorak details: Radio pocket with waterproof zipper, Mosquito net which can be concealed in a neck pocket, Adjustable hood, Large practical zipped pocket, Two front cross pockets for warming hands, Long zip at the side makes it easy to put on and take off the anorak, Adjustable sleeves and hood Trouser details: Adjustable waist, Buttoned legs, Waterproof zippers. ›

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hunting clothes

Sologne Attractive classic design, ideal for stalking and fl ush hunting The Sologne series is a lightweight hunting outfi t made from a soft, flexible material. The combination of cotton and polyester gives a feeling of well-being and good comfort.

The set is breathable and water-resistant, and ideally suited to active stalking and flush hunting. Extra padding has been added to the shoulder and chest of the jacket and vest to protect against recoil from shotguns and rifles.

All in all a classic and attractive hunting outfi t made from the best materials.

Materials: 35% cotton, 65% polyester

Jacket details: Large game pocket with press studs, Extra padded shoulder and chest protection, Versatile inside and outside pockets, Adjustable at wrist, Pleated back for good comfort and freedom of movement

Sologne

Vest details: Extra padded shoulder and chest protection, Game pocket which can be opened, making it easy to clean, Side pocket suitable for a drink bottle, etc., Front pockets with flaps, Elastic cartridge loops, D-ring for game Reinforced trousers with boot cut, details: Elasticized waist, Thigh pockets, with room for a knife on the right side, Several versatile front and back pockets, Double protection against wear at the knees Boot-cut trousers: Zip at legs, Reinforced trousers: Extra reinforcement at the thigh, on the front leg and at the rear to protect against thorns and scrub, Velcro at the feet.

Sologne

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Vermont

Vermont A comfortable all-round hunting outfi t for cold climates The Vermont series has been developed for stalking and flush hunting. The set has been designed for various types of terrain in cold climates. Insulated padding can keep you warm down to -10°C, and a Deer-Tex ® membrane ensures the hunting outfi t is waterproof, windproof and breathable.

The set is perfectly suited to active hunters, both adults and children A matching cap and gloves are available. The gloves come with a Deer-Tex® membrane.

Materials: 100% Polyester.

Membrane: Deer-Tex ® membrane.

Vermont Jacket details: Radio pocket, Napoleon pockets, Detachable hood, Adjustable waist, Game pocket, Tailored cut at elbows, Numerous functional inside and outside pockets.

Trouser details: Adjustable waist, Tailored cut at knees, Many versatile pockets

Vermont

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hunting tools

A Hunter’s Helpers

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When a hunter goes out into the wild, there are many devices and accessories that he or she takes along in order to turn the entire experience into a complete success. Some of these devices and accessories include tree stands and hunting blinds. In this article, we are going to cover the basics about what these two really are and the different types available.

Tree Stands Tree stands are either open or enclosed platforms that are secured to trees in order to elevate hunters and give them a better vantage point. Tree stands definitely give hunters an advantage as they sit up in a tree.

This allows them to see over intervening brush and vegetation that might otherwise block the hunter’s view of approaching game.

The most popular animals to hunt, using a tree stand is deer.

There are three different types of Tree stands that are used by hunters and these include a climbing stand, ladder stand and a hanging stand.

1. Climbing Stand - Two parts make up climbing stands. The bottom part is the standing platform and the top is the seat. Not all the top parts have backs for the seats. There is normally a strap that connects the two parts, so if the bottom falls while in the tree or climbing, the platform doesn’t fall all the way to the ground stranding the hunter. Only trees that have no limbs up to the height desired for hunting will work.

Climbing tree stands have a couple of different styles to connect to the tree.

The part that wraps around the tree can be made from a thick cable or boomerang shaped piece of metal. The part that wraps around the tree is fastened to the stand with a bolt or pin for easy adjustment for different tree sizes.

Before climbing the tree, both parts need to be adjusted to the tree so they are level for the hunter to stand and sit on. To climb the tree, the back of each part is angled to the tree one at a time and pulled up.

Then the part that the hunter is moving is set back level and the next part is moved up.

This is done until the hunter is at the desired height. For safety some hunters strap the tree stand to the tree. To go down, the hunter does the same as climbing up except goes down.

2. Ladder Stand - Ladder stands are stands with a seat and platform along with the ladder to climb up in to the stand. A ladder stand has a seat and platform that connects to the tree with the ladder coming off the front of the platform to give the hunter access to the stand.

Ladder stands are stationary because of the size and lack of ability to move through the woods quietly. Stability is good because of the connection to the tree and support from the ground. Hunters can use one and two person ladder stands.

3. Hanging Stand - Hanging stands resemble ladder stands without the ladder, and the hanging stand is also stationary.

Hanging stands connect to the tree which chains or cables at the desired height. To get up to a hanging stand, hunters use ladders or sections of ladders secured to

the tree, or they use screw in steps that screw in the tree and allow the hunter to climb up to the stand. ›

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hunting tools

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Blinds A hunting blind is a cover device, designed to reduce the chance of detection. There are different types of blinds for different situations such as deer blinds and duck blinds. Some are exceedingly simple and easy to construct, while others are quite complex.

Where to get them?

Summit has been making premium tree stands and hunting gear for more than 25 years. Their products are carefully engineered to be the most silent, secure, concealed and comfortable stands on the market.

From versatile climbing tree stands to adaptable tripod stands, and blinds, all the products are of the highest quality.

The Summit Company’s products are all designed by hunters that know what matters when on the hunt therefore they guarantee their customers’ satisfaction.

Always remember to be safe in everything you do out in the wild. Yes, tree stands are a great aid, however you must ensure the safety of your life and you partners. Make sure you pick the right stand, the right equipment and the right tree!

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hunting tools

The Stool That Walks The Walkstool is truly a unique product and it has become increasingly popular in the world of hunters as well as many other professions.

The name is derived from the fact that you can attach the Walkstool to your belt or any other strap and walk hands free. Basically, it is a stool that walks along with you. In order to attach the Walkstool to a belt, the user will simply have to thread the closing strap through the belt or belt loop and then snap the button.

The Walkstool is a three legged stool and it comes in two product types, Comfort and Basic. Both products are designed in Sweden. However, only the Comfort model is assembled in Sweden whereas the Basic model is assembled in China. The stools are made from commercial grade anodized aluminium and heavy duty nylon mesh seat.

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As mentioned earlier, Walkstool is available in both Comfort and Basic model types.

It comes with two seat heights ranging from 45cm/18in as in a normal chair and to 75cm/30in to accommodate for hunters, tall people, and people with back or disc problems as well as people that are larger in size.

Walkstool Comfort The Walkstool Comfort 45cm/18in, Walkstool Comfort 55cm/22in, Walkstool Comfort 65cm/26in and Walkstool Comfort 75cm/30in are for people who like to feel very comfortable when they sit down. The seats are approximately 40% , 60% and 80% bigger than a normal seat for a three legged stool. The taller the stool, the bigger the seat size.

Walkstool Basic The Walkstool Basic 50cm/20in and Walkstool Basic 60cm/24in are mainly aimed at the mass market. The seat is made of green polyester and is approximately 20% bigger in size than a normal seat for a three legged stool. The upper legs are also green to match the stool.

The invention of the Walkstool is truly a great one.

Once you are sitting on the Walkstool, you must be sure to avoid putting all your pressure on one or two lower legs, especially on uneven ground. You should always check that the red button on the Walkstool is in the proper locked position before using it.

Hunters generally go with the model suggested for them which is the Walkstool Comfort 75cm/30in. So what are you waiting for? It’s time to go hunting and guess what? You can simply fold the stool and throw it into your bag and then voila! You are already on the road to a great hunting experience!.

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artist of the wild

Cemmick & Wylder David Cemmick (Sculptor) and Sebastian Wylder (Mould Maker) started working together and founded Cemmick and Wylder fine art bronze in 2005, creating and producing original limited edition bronze wildlife sculptures.

For four years, he held the post of Senior Lecturer in Environmental Illustration at the University of Sunderland. In 2005, his passion for three dimensional texture and surface quality embraced foundry bronze sculpture and launched a new creative direction.

The Cemmick and Wylder head office is situated in the picturesque village of Burtonin-Kendal, South Lakeland, Lancashire, United Kingdom.

Sebastian Wylder was born in Bournemouth, UK in 1971. He was educated in the United Arab Emirates and Singapore and trained in Landscape Gardening. Upon finishing his education, Sebastian left Singapore to be with his family and further his rugby career in Auckland, New Zealand. Spending five years there to learn his trade, Seb decided to return to the UK.

Their work can be viewed at a select group of galleries around the UK. David Cemmick was born in Darlington, Co Durham, UK in 1955. Following training in animal anatomy, at the World of Nature, Yorkshire, he became a freelance artist in 1975. A passionate wildlife observer and conservationist, David’s travels have taken him to the remotest corners of the glove to draw nature as he sees it, in the wild.

Television appearances and conservation work with Prof. David Bellamy molded his early career and his first two books documented the ground-breaking conservation work of the New Zealand Wildlife Services.

Working as a green keeper for the Henley Royal Regatta, Henley-on-Thames for three years, Seb was given the opportunity by his uncle, sculptor Jonathan Wylder, to join the family business in Belgravia, London. Here, he learnt all aspects of mould making, foundry bronze casting, setting up and running exhibitions and the general management of The Jonathan Wylder Gallery in London.

In 2000, Seb moved to South Lakeland with

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his wife Joanne and started a family and a new business. Whilst mould making for a variety of artists, he commissioned works to be sold in galleries both in UK and abroad. This led to his meeting with David Cemmick and the formation of Cemmick and Wylder fine art bronze.

The gorilla was credited with changing public perception of silverbacks from dangerous King Kong beasts to gentle giants and went on to become immortalised in bronze by sculptor David Cemmick.

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artist of the wild

John

Banovich

The Artist of the Wild John Banovich joins the rank of artists who, through their desire to understand the fascinating world of animals, have been compelled to capture their likeness through personal artistic expression. Banovich is

among the most renowned international wildlife artists, specializing in large oil paintings of animals from around the world. He studied art and zoology at the University of Montana and holds a degree from the Art Institute of

Seattle in Visual Communication. His original oil paintings are owned and exhibited by corporate organizations including; Tudor Investments and The American Patriot Group as well as national museums including: The Wildlife Experience, Hiram Blauvelt, National Cowboy Hall of Fame The National Museum of Wildlife Art and the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum.

Banovich is on the board of the Society of Animal Artists, and the Board of The Craighead Environmental Research Institute, a featured judge for The Artist’s Magazine and is Master Artist - teaching workshops internationally.

He also founded the Wildscapes Foundation, which fosters cooperative efforts to conserve the earth’s wild places to benefi t the wildlife and the people that live there, raising millions of dollars for conversation and humanitarian causes.

Banovich is an award winning artist who hopes that his art will inspire people to protect wildlife and ensure its survivial.

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Among today’s genre of wildlife artists, John Banovich is regarded as one of the best.

Following in the tradition of the late 19th and early 20th century conservationist and wildlife artist Carl Runguis, Banovich was similarly raised as a sportsman and wildlife enthusiast.

His experiences of hunting and exploration gave him direct access to wildlife and an intimate understanding of animal anatomy which found full expression in his art.

John Banovich’s style and approach are well grounded in the realist tradition, demonstrating great technical skill and creative vision compelling the viewer to see the beauty, uniqueness, and power of wildlife together with the elements of compassion and respect.

John Banovich’s style and approach are well grounded in the realist tradition, demonstrating great technical skill and creative vision compelling the viewer to see the beauty, uniqueness, and power of wildlife together with the elements of compassion and respect.

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cook your hunt

Cook your

Hunt Pheasant Recipies

I was speaking to a good friend and exbusiness partner of mine the other day who happened to mention that he had a couple of brace of pheasants hanging up in his garage that he was about to clean and prepare for the table, and as I had to come up with some recipes for this edition of H&S I thought it might be nice if he were to give me two of his recipes which I can pass on to you.

I have known John and Sally Starling, for a good few years and during this time my wife and I have been fortunate enough to have shared their hospitality on numerous occasions, and they never disappoint us with their culinary expertise.

You see, John and Sally are one of those rare couples that can work amicably together in the kitchen and the only blood that is spilled is that small amount that comes from the, ever so tender, roast beef when John does the carving.

However, below are two pheasant recipes that John and Sally cook periodically and which they assure me are relatively easy and very, very tasty. John’s pheasants were of a good size and carried just the right amount of fat due to the cold winter ensuring the birds were prone to hang on to their fat for insulation. They were young birds so did not need a whole lot of cooking unlike older, tougher birds. It is preferable to cook young birds on the rare side and, as with all roast or cooked meat, let them stand for a while before carving or dishing up to let the muscles relax in the flesh and for the heat to continue to penetrate into the bones.

The first menu John gave me is, Pheasant Stuffed with Rice. Now this is a dish that I have some experience of as my wife, being Lebanese, makes two Christmas turkeys, one

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traditionally English, stuffed with sage and onion and chestnut stuffing, for me, and the other traditionally Arabic, stuffed with rice, sultanas and either pine seed or almonds. So I was interested to see how John and Sally’s pheasant recipe differs from Hanan’s turkey recipe.

This dish will serve four persons and John recommended a nice cold bottle of white Zinfandel wine would be the ideal accompaniment as it is not too dry and is very refreshing which should compliment the young pheasants and the grenadine sauce which accompanies the dish.

Method

Roast Pheasant Stuffed with Basmati Rice

After plucking and cleaning his pheasants, John washes them well inside the cavities with warm water and a little vinegar, pats them dry and leave to one side.

Ingredients

He then slices the onions and puts in a pan with the butter, along with the herbs and spices, leaving some spices to coat the pheasants, and starts to fry until the onions are brown. He then adds the mince, and continues to fry until the beef is sealed and part cooked and the onions start to caramelize. Then he turns off the heat and sets aside and boils the rice.

This is Sally’s method of cooking rice.

Wash the rice well under running water to reduce the starch. She suggests that rather than weighing rice it is better to use volume and for every cup, or whatever container you use to measure the rice, add double the quantity of water. So, to two cups of rice add four cups of water in a large saucepan and mix in evenly the meat and onions, sultanas, pine seeds and spices and bring to the boil and then lower the heat to a simmer with the lid on. Resisting the temptation to keep lifting the lid and stirring the rice, just leave it till all the water has been absorbed by the rice and in about 30 minutes, Sally, guarantees the rice will be soft and fluffy. The burnt onions will give the rice a nice flavor and color.

John continues explaining his preparation method as follows.

Whilst the rice is cooking it’s time to focus on the birds. Pre heat your oven to 190C/375F. With the birds in a roasting pan rub the remaining spices into the birds’ skin and sprinkle over the grenadine sauce, covering the whole bird well but not soaking it. Add a sprinkling of sea salt and black pepper to taste and stuff the rice and mince and onion

• Two young fresh pheasants. Plucked and drawn.

(If newly shot leave to hang for about four or five days).

• 200g of lean coarsely ground minced beef. (If you can not get course mince off the shelf John recommends you ask the butcher to coarse mince 200g of sirloin steak with a little of the fat left on).

• Two cups of Basmati rice.

• Two medium sized brown onions.

• 200g of butter.

• 100g of pine seeds.

• 100g of sultanas.

• One stick of cinnamon.

• Two bay leaves.

• Two tsp tarragon.

• Two tsp sage.

• Two tsp of rosemary.

• Two tsp of nutmeg.

• 170g pot of plain yoghurt.

• Grenadine source to taste, John recommends about three good tablespoons.

mixture loosely into the cavity and finally put about 300ml of water in the pan to keep the birds moist then pop in the oven for about 45 to 50 minutes.

Check at intervals to see if the birds are cooking and that the skin is not burning. If they are cooking outside too quickly turn down the heat a notch. The birds will be cooked when the juices run clear when you insert a skewer or a fork into the thigh of the bird.

Once they are cooked remove from the oven and you can now put the remainder of the rice around the birds in the roasting tray to soak up the juices. Cover it all with foil and let the birds rest for about 15 minutes. There will be sufficient residual heat in the birds to

keep everything warm; and another of Sally’s tips is that the foil should cover the birds, or anything else for that matter, shiny side down to reflect the heat. (She says to remember this when foiling baked potatoes. Nice one Sally).

Remove the birds from the pan and put them on a large serving plate with the rice spooned around them. The yoghurt should be served separately so that your guests can mix it with the rice to their liking.

John and Sally also put a dish of grenadine sauce on the table so that guests can help themselves if anyone likes their meal a little on the sweet side. Cranberry sauce any one?

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cook your hunt

John and Sally’s second dish is a particular favorite of mine when dinning at their table, but is not always available as pheasants are not always in good supply. The thing to remember, of course, is that you can substitute the pheasant with a young, free range, chicken if you so whish. So with their permission I will call it:-

Pot Roast Poultry You will need a good casserole dish for this dish, stove top and oven proof. Cast iron is ideal and you can get some decent cast iron ware nowadays that won’t break the bank.

This casserole will again serve four persons and, John suggests a slightly more robust wine for this recipe. If you are using pheasant he would recommend a nice light red, a young Beaujolais would be fine, or if you go for the chicken then the Zinfandel would be OK, but Sally thinks a decent Chardonnay would suit it better. Who are we to argue?

Method Prepare the birds if not plucked and drawn, then clean and rinse them well with warm water with a little vinegar added. Prepare the

Pot Roast Poultry Ingredients • Two pheasants or one large free range chicken.

• Two medium brown onions roughly sliced.

• Four large carrots, diced.

• Three large parsnips, diced.

• Four medium potatoes, diced.

• One leek cut into manageable pieces.

• Three sticks of celery chopped into bite size pieces with the young leaves left on.

• One half level tsp, (that’s tea spoon don’t overdo it) dried chilies.

• One cinnamon stick.

• Two bay leaves.

• Two tsp of garlic paste or a couple of cloves of fresh crushed garlic.

• 35cl of White wine. No need to go over the top but, J&S, never use too cheap a wine in their food preparation. They contend, and I do agree, that if you use good quality produce why use cheap wine. Makes sense.

• 35cl chicken stock or use made up low sodium stock cubes.

• A good drizzle of olive oil.

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vegetables and put the birds and vegetables into the casserole dish along with the olive oil, wine and stock, and add salt and black pepper to taste. Don’t add too much pepper as we do have a smattering of chilies in there.

When we have this dish at John and Sally’s they usually bring the casserole to the boil on the stove top and simmer for about 20 minutes before putting on the lid and popping it into their preheated oven at 150c/300F for around 2 ½ hours. We usually arrive about one hour before it’s ready to serve and the aroma as we walk into the house is delightful, I can tell you.

Sally always tastes the sauce before serving and if it needs a little more flavor she will make up a little more stock to replace any that has evaporated during cooking. The meat can then be taken off the bone at the table and the vegetables served from the dish.

There is always crispy bread on the table and with this dish it can be used to mop up that lovely sauce. I look forward to the next invite; maybe there will be another recipe from their repertoire to delight our taste buds in the future.

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directory

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