2019/20 edition
Digital Edition
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
2019/20
The game shooting, stalking and wildfowling guide for visitors to Scotland
In association with the
Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group
introduction
Welcome to Shoot in Scotland
The Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group invites you to experience a warm Scottish welcome on your next sporting trip
T
his magazine introduces Scotland as a world class sporting shooting and deerstalking destination to potential visitors. It provides comprehensive
information about the various sports available and lists a wide variety of sporting providers that can be contacted directly with enquiries. It also contains helpful travel tips for those coming from overseas. We hope you find the magazine of great help and look forward to welcoming you to Scotland on your next sporting trip. Visit the website www. countrysportscotland.com for more information and sporting opportunities. SCSTG
4
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introduction
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
5
contents
contents
32 8 EDITOR’S FOREWORD
26 READ MORE…
47 BIG DAY, SMALL BUDGET
Peter Carr on why Scotland still beats
Subscriptions offers and bundles from the
How walked-up shooting can give you a high-
anywhere in the world as a sporting
makers of Shoot In Scotland
calibre shooting experience without breaking
destination
the bank
28 GET QUALIFIED 12 BREAKING BOUNDARIES
Why the DSC1 qualification is becoming a
52 A SHORE THING
Why more and more women are getting
must for every would-be deer stalker
A relative wildfowling newbie, Byron Pace
involved in Scottish field sports
finds himself captivated by the magic of the
32 HILL HEAVEN
foreshore
14 WHERE TO STAY
Stalking on the hill is no piece of cake – but
Hotels, lodges and B&Bs to suit any budget
here’s how to do it
16 TRAVEL TIPS
37 WILD THINGS
capture a week’s wildfowling on film. Let’s
The best ways to get to Scotland
Byron Pace returns to the snow-clad hill for
hope he packed his waterproof…
57 THE NORTHERN EXTREME Stuart Wilson is dispatched to Orkney to
another year of wilderness hind stalking
18 SHOOTING THE SCHULTZ Stuart Wilson gets to grips with a Schultz &
40 BUCK DEBUT
Larsen in 6.5x55
Chris Dalton guides Debra Carr after her first Scottish roebuck
21 FOUR OF THE BEST Four more rifles to suit your budget and
42 OPTICAL EXCELLENCE
stalking needs
A bumper collection of scopes and binos for hill stalking
22 SHOTGUN START Looking for your first gun for Scottish game?
44 PROMOTING GAMEKEEPING
We round up all the aspects you need to look
How gamekeepers are getting together to
for in a prospective buy
make a real difference to their community
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47
contents
Future PLC Units 1 & 2, Sugarbrook Court, Aston Road, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B60 3EX
Editorial Editor-in-chief Peter Carr
peter.carr@futurenet.com
Deputy editor Colin Fallon
01225 687426 colin.fallon@futurenet.com
Art editor Steve Mumby Senior Art Editor Stephen Williams Contributors Richard Atkins, David Barrington Barnes, Tim Baynes, Tina Brough, Chris Dalton, Simon Everett, Dominic Griffith, Rory Kennedy, Will O'Meara, Byron Pace, Stuart Wilson Cover image Getty Images Stock photography Alamy, Getty Images, Shutterstock All copyrights and trademarks are recognised and respected Advertising Media packs are available on request Commercial Director Clare Dove Group Advertising Director Mark Wright mark.wright@futurenet.com Advertising Sales Manager Toni Cole toni.cole@futurenet.com 01225 687368 International Shoot In Scotland is available for licensing. Contact the international department to discuss partnership opportunities. International Licensing Director Matt Ellis matt.ellis@futurenet.com Subscriptions Email enquiries contact@myfavouritemagazines.co.uk UK orderline & enquiries 0344 848 2852 Overseas order line and enquiries +44 (0)344 848 2852 Online orders & enquiries www.myfavouritemagazines.co.uk Head of subscriptions Sharon Todd
63 60 FIELD WEAR
Circulation Head of Newstrade Tim Mathers
Clothing and footwear that’ll keep you dry and
90 PRESERVING GROUSE SHOOTING
comfortable wherever you are
How driven grouse shooting is changing with the times
63 THE NATIONAL SHOOTING CENTRE
92 LOADS OF QUALITY
Bisley? No, closer to home – Scotland’s NSC in
Cartridges to deal with any day on the
Jawcraig
moorland
67 WHICH CALIBRE IS BEST?
94 WHERE TO SHOOT
.308, .30-06, .270 – if you’re stalking reds, how
Plan your next shoot today with our list of
big should you go?
hunting estates and sporting providers
72 CAUTIONARY TALE
98 BACK PAGE
Chris Dalton receives a jarring reminder that
David Barrington Barnes reminds us what it’s
danger is never far away when on the hill
all about
74 CULL QUANDARIES Dominic Griffith shows us how deer managers plan their winter hind cull
76 STALKING ESSENTIALS Accessories to make life on the hill easier, from knives to gloves to slings
90
Production Head of Production Mark Constance Production Project Manager Clare Scott Advertising Production Manager Joanne Crosby Digital Editions Controller Jason Hudson Production Controller Nola Cokely Management Chief Content Officer Aaron Asadi Commercial Finance Director Dan Jotcham Managing Director of Hobbies Alastair Lewis Head of Art & Design Greg Whitaker Printed by William Gibbons Distributed by Marketforce, 5 Churchill Place, Canary Wharf, London, E14 5HU www.marketforce.co.uk Tel: 0203 787 9060 Produced in partnership with the Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group We are committed to only using magazine paper which is derived from responsibly managed, certified forestry and chlorine-free manufacture. The paper in this magazine was sourced and produced from sustainable managed forests, conforming to strict environmental and socioeconomic standards. The manufacturing paper mill holds full FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certification and accreditation All contents © 2019 Future Publishing Limited or published under licence. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be used, stored, transmitted or reproduced in any way without the prior written permission of the publisher. Future Publishing Limited (company number 2008885) is registered in England and Wales. Registered office: Quay House, The Ambury, Bath BA1 1UA. All information contained in this publication is for information only and is, as far as we are aware, correct at the time of going to press. Future cannot accept any responsibility for errors or inaccuracies in such information. You are advised to contact manufacturers and retailers directly with regard to the price of products/services referred to in this publication. Apps and websites mentioned in this publication are not under our control. We are not responsible for their contents or any other changes or updates to them. This magazine is fully independent and not affiliated in any way with the companies mentioned herein. If you submit material to us, you warrant that you own the material and/ or have the necessary rights/permissions to supply the material and you automatically grant Future and its licensees a licence to publish your submission in whole or in part in any/all issues and/or editions of publications, in any format published worldwide and on associated websites, social media channels and associated products. Any material you submit is sent at your own risk and, although every care is taken, neither Future nor its employees, agents, subcontractors or licensees shall be liable for loss or damage. We assume all unsolicited material is for publication unless otherwise stated, and reserve the right to edit, amend, adapt all submissions.
80 STAY SAFE Even the most experienced shooter could do with a safety refresher from time to time, says Will O’Meara
85 THE FUTURE OF HUNTING What will shooting in Scotland look like in 10
Future plc is a public company quoted on the London Stock Exchange (symbol: FUTR) www.futureplc.com
Chief executive Zillah Byng-Thorne Non-executive chairman Richard Huntingford Chief financial officer Penny Ladkin-Brand Tel +44 (0)1225 442 244
years – or 100?
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
7
introduction
editor’s foreword Editor-in-chief Peter Carr toasts Scotland’s resilience throughout history and its unmatched array of sporting opportunities today
S
cotland! The very name conjures up rugged vistas, violent histories, stags, grouse, salmon
and whisky (not necessarily in that order). The northernmost country of the United Kingdom’s main landmass and the one that resisted the warring Plantagenet King Edward’s dream of a united Britannia the longest. History is mostly written by the victor but Scotland’s heritage, like its people, has been hard to subdue – the country’s history is woven into the unique landscape we see today. The truth of Scotland’s past has been recorded in chronicles and ballads (by both loser and victor), which still influence narratives in modern thinking. Indeed, interest in the nation’s heroes such as Wallace, Credit: Dgwildlife / Getty Images
Robert the Bruce, Black Douglas, and the intrigue in the union of the crowns has never been stronger, the legends oft invoked by nationalists and film producers. The land may be forged in blood and toil, but thankfully the Highlands are as well known for their welcome today as their turbulent past. This sassenach, for one, has completed an annual sporting sojourn to the Glens every year for at least the last 30. As a well-travelled Nimrod I’ve been fortunate to have hunted,
mobile signal and internet is a boon to most
have everything from snipe on the moss,
shot, and fished on four continents covering
of us – me included – who are mostly enslaved
woodcock and blackcock on moorland
countries that would take a long time to count.
to connectivity in the modern working world.
margins to grouse over pointers (a particular
It is no secret that my favourite sporting
Scotland’s tourism is based around her varied
love), and snow grouse or ptarmigan on the
destination is Scotland. The country is one of
vistas, be it the grandeur of the Highland
rocky ridges and Munro summits.
Europe’s last wildernesses, and owing to the
granite cathedrals, the wave and wind-shaped
geographical nature of the glacier-carved glens,
sea cliffs, the lochs and lochans that sparkle
red deer, the iconic stag immortalised by
there isn’t that much noise pollution, or for
among the heather-and-moss carpets that clad
Landseer’s painting Monarch of the Glen. And
that matter major roads.
the ancient land, or her rivers and burns that
there is a unique Highland sporting endeavour:
have cut an existence through the landscape
pursuing the red stag on the hill with a tweed-
since the glaciers receded millennia ago.
clad stalker and ghillie in attendance. It’s
Indeed, the maze of B-roads that takes one to the myriad quaint, stark, foreboding, haunted (Scotland has them all) lodges, fortified
But it shouldn’t be forgotten that a big
The rifleman has roe, fallow and of course
a sporting pursuit unchanged since it was
houses and castles that serve as a sporting
part of that tourism is based on sporting
popularised by Queen Victoria’s German
base are little more than cart tracks forged by
endeavours that have their own unique
consort, Prince Albert of Saxe-Coburg and
General Wade’s engineers in the aftermath of
history and traditions, all of which are kept
Gotha. I’ve stalked wild boar at the prince’s
Culloden, the last battle fought on British soil.
alive by like-minded Nimrods who want to
childhood home, Coburg Castle, and exciting as
This engagement on a cold, wet, sleet-driven
pursue their game in a wild, remote and
it was, I’m with the prince’s preference for stag
day back in April 1746 finally subdued the
rewarding landscape. The varieties of game
pursuit in Scotland’s glens. Go on, give it a go.
last Highland uprising and forced the French-
that Scotland offers has no equal in Europe.
You won’t be disappointed – I’m sure of that.
speaking pretender ‘Bonnie Prince Charlie’ to
Fishers have salmon, trout, grayling and char
dress in drag, catch a skiff to Skye and live out
to challenge them; wingshooters have some
the remainder of his days as an exile in France.
of the best driven pheasant and grouse
The difficulty in getting to these sporting
shooting available in the British Isles; the
lodges is part of the allure, and the lack of
wildfowling is world-class; rough shooters
Pete Carr, editor-in-chief Shoot IN SCOTLAND
9
introduction
Planning your trip? Start here
Find everything you need to plan your Scottish sporting holiday at www.countrysportscotland.com
search Search by sport or region through more than 200 Scottish sporting estates and providers, and book directly with them
AccoMmodation Find sport-friendly accommodation
SPORTING AGENTS Guidance on which agents offer which sports and where
Sporting Offers Browse through the shooting, fishing and stalking opportunities from our sporting providers for last-minute deals and new sporting opportunities
Country Sports Discover the wonderful range of sporting opportunities on offer in Scotland
OTHER INFORMATION Regularly updated section with all sorts of useful information about country sports in Scotland, including etiquette and guidance Find us on Facebook: search for “Scottish Country Sports Tourism�
10
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on travelling with firearms
INTRODUCTION
WIDENING APPEAL Rory Kennedy, SCSTG board member, reports on women’s increasing participation in the shooting sports
S
hooting typically changes at a glacial rate, built
Megan Rowland is a professional deer stalker from Strath
on long-held customs and rites of passage. Yet in
Brora in Sutherland and represents a new breed of professional
recent years our sport has seen a seismic change
deer stalkers who are eloquent in the language of ecosystem
in the role and participation levels of women. BASC
management. Interestingly, Megan grew up vegetarian and was
now has 11,000 female members, growing by 10 per cent in
working for a prominent conservation charity when she was
the last year alone.
introduced to deer stalking, the interplay of nature, ecosystem
Scotland has 3,000 female shotgun certificate holders with
management and food harvesting immediately resonating
women making up around 6.5 per cent of UK hunters. Without
with her ethical beliefs. Megan believes the elements of food
fanfare or agenda, more and more women have come into
sustainability and provenance are key attractions to field sports
shooting and hunting, and our lobbying and membership
and speaks to a younger generation of women.
bodies increasingly rely on women in senior roles to drive the political interests of our sport. Within the Scottish shooting world, Cara Richardson is a
A writer, blogger and actively involved in professional land management advocacy, she is simultaneously quick to shy away from self-promotion. Like so many women who
leading figure. A member of BASC Council, Scottish Committee
have entered the professional hunting world, she prefers to
chair, co-founder of the Scottish Ladies Shooting Club and
speak by her abilities and actions, being accepted by being
a professional sporting agent, Cara’s philosophy is a million
competent regardless of gender expectations. It is apparent
miles from the ‘pink camo and Instagram’ world of the celebrity
that connection with nature is her passion. Much of her
huntress: “Do it well, do it quietly and do it because you love
job involves wider land management: peatland restoration,
it”. Five years ago, Cara and co-founder Lesley Fleming saw a
improving black grouse habitats and restoring our ancient
need for a group that would provide a welcoming and social
woodlands. She said, “Killing is only a small part of hunting,
environment for women to experience shooting. Five years
though it is a natural focus of the day.” Instead, Rowland talks
later, The Scottish Ladies Shooting Club is going strong, hosting
passionately and knowledgeably about her excitement at
regular clay shooting days, with a strong emphasis on fun and
watching deer in their natural environment, observing their
inclusivity. However, they have never forgotten their game
natural herd interactions, “The thing you don’t realise until you
shooting roots and the group also organise driven game days
spend time observing deer is how noisily they communicate
each year. Some members aren’t interested in game shooting,
within the herd”.
some are vegetarian, but each year a cohort will progress from clays to standing in the line on their first driven pheasant shoot. Cara cut her teeth in the traditionally male-dominated
Our sport’s traditional demographic does play into the hands of those who politicise natural privilege and this sits poorly in national conversations about land use for sporting interests.
industry. Clumsy mansplaining and other unintended biases
The answer is diversity and more of it, not just on the matter of
will inevitably exist, but Cara has never experienced intentional
gender but wider social inclusion. Consequently, those women
discrimination and described the predominant male attitude as
who take up the sport carry with them an important role in
highly supportive and even “chivalrous”. Sometimes traditional
breaking down prejudices – prejudices that are squarely outwith
gender preconceptions can work to women shooters’
the ranks of the shooting line.
advantage. “You cannot fail,” opined Cara. “If you are having a bad day in the shooting line there is not the same pressure from male guns and they may show a level of support and sympathy that is rarely extended to their male buddies. If you shoot well, men might be caught by surprise, but the likely attitude is, ‘Hey, well done hen!’” One of the last bastions of male domination would be gamekeeping, but there have always been trailblazers. Holkham, one of the UK’s most prominent shooting estates, caused a Portia Simpson became the first lady to qualify from a Scottish gamekeeping college in 2003, the media interest suggested little social progress in the last 150 years. Simpson went on to write a book of her experiences and was at the vanguard of an increasing number of female stalkers and keepers.
12
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Credit: Byron Pace
stir by appointing a female keeper in the mid 1800s. When
plan your stay
WHERE TO STAY Start planning your trip to Scotland by booking to stay in one of these excellent hunting-friendly hotels and lodges
T
he Scottish Country Sports Tourism Group (SCSTG)
was started in 2004 to promote Scotland as a country sports tourism holiday destination and help sustain its rural communities. There are more than four million people who enjoy country sports in the UK alone. To recognise this, VisitScotland and the Country Sports Tourism Group have developed the Fieldsports Welcome Scheme for accommodation that makes a special effort to cater for the needs of field sports enthusiasts. On the whole, Scotland is an exceedingly friendly country and shooting tourists are not just tolerated but heartily welcomed. You’re guaranteed a warm reception at this list of shootingfriendly accommodation, newly curated from scratch this year. Whether it’s five-star luxury or basic B&B you’re after, read on and find a place for you. Glenapp Castle
ABERDEENSHIRE
Dalriada Luxury Lodges
ANGUS
The Wheatsheaf at Swinton
Aberlour Cottages
*****
House of Turin *****
****
2 Allt A Bhainne, Glenrinnes,
Dalriada Properties Ltd, Cowie,
Turin House, Forfar, Angus, DD8
Main Street, Swinton, Berwickshire,
Dufftown, Aberdeenshire, AB55
Stonehaven, Aberdeenshire
2UF, info@houseofturin.com
TD11 3JJ
4DB (Property postcode is AB38
AB39 3RH
01307 830463
reception@wheatsheaf-swinton.
9NY)
kelly@dalriadalodges.com
www.houseofturin.com
ms_stella_taylor@yahoo.co.uk,
01569 769189
01340 821557 / 07400 222272,
www.dalriadalodges.com
www.aberlourcottages.dipago.de
co.uk, 01890 860257 www.wheatsheaf-swinton.co.uk
AYRSHIRE Dalry, Ayrshire, KA24 4ER
DUMFRIES & GALLOWAY
enquiries@blairestate.com, 01294
Friars Carse Country House
833100, www.blairestate.com
Hotel ***
Blair Estate *****
Auldgirth, Dumfries, Dumfries & Glenapp Castle *****
Galloway, DG2 0SA
Ballantrae, South Ayrshire, KA26
fcsalesandevents@pofr.co.uk
0NZ
01387 740388
info@glenappcastle.com, 01465
www.friarscarse.co.uk
831212, www.glenappcastle.com
INVERNESS-SHIRE
Dalrachney Lodge
14
www.countrysportscotland.com
BERWICKSHIRE
Alvie Holiday Cottages ***
The Lodge Carfraemill ****
Alvie Estate, Kincraig, Kingussie,
Lauder, Berwickshire, TD2 6RA
Inverness-shire, PH21 1NE
enquiries@carfraemill.co.uk, 01578
info@alvie-estate.co.uk, 01540
750750, www.carfraemill.co.uk
651255, www.alvie-estate.co.uk
plan your stay
Dalrachney Lodge *** Grantown Road, Carrbridge, Inverness-shire, PH23 3AT dalrachney@aol.com, 01479 841252, www.dalrachney.com Kingsmills Hotel **** Culcabock Road, Inverness, Inverness-shire, IV2 3LP, reservations@kingsmillshotel.com 01463 257141 www.kingsmillshotel.com Links House *****
Blair Estate
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Golf Road, Dornoch, IV25 3LN info@linkshousedornoch.com 01862 851826 www.linkshousedornoch.com Muckrach Country House Hotel *** Dulnain Bridge, Grantown-on-Spey, Inverness-shire, PH26 3LY info@muckrach.com, 01479 851227, www.muckrach.com
LANARKSHIRE Hearthstanes Estate *** Tweedsmuir, Biggar, Lanarkshire,
Ballathie House Hotel
ML12 6QN holidayrentals@hearthstanes.com
bev@cauldhameestate.co.uk
Mid Cambushinnie Farm
Borders, TD5 7HT
01899 225119
0772 108 2156
Cromlix, Dunblane, Perthshire,
info@crabtreeandcrabtree.
www.hearthstanes.com
www.cauldhameestate.co.uk
FK15 9JU
com, 01573 226711, www.
cambushinniecroft@gmail.
crabtreeandcrabtree.com
MORAYSHIRE
Dunalastair Hotel Suites
com, 07977 135071, www.
Culdearn House ****
1 The Square, Kinloch Rannoch,
cambushinniecroft.co.uk
Woodlands Terrace, Grantown-on-
Perthshire, PH16 5PW
Spey, Morayshire, PH26 3JU
bookings@dunalastairhotel.com
Royal Dunkeld Hotel ***
Borders, TD6 0RQ
enquiries@culdearn.com, 01479
01882 580444
Atholl Street, Dunkeld, Perthshire,
lee@dryburgh.co.uk, 01835
872106, www.culdearn.com
www.dunalastairhotel.com
PH8 0AR
822261, www.dryburgh.co.uk
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel **** St Boswells, Melrose, Scottish
reservations@royaldunkeld.co.uk
PERTHSHIRE
East Haugh House Hotel
01350 727322
The Tontine Hotel ***
Ballathie House Hotel ****
****
www.royaldunkeld.co.uk
High Street, Peebles, Scottish
Kinclaven, Stanley, Perthshire, PH1
Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5TE
4QN
info@easthaugh.co.uk, 01796
SCOTTISH BORDERS
kate.innes@tontinehotel.com,
verity@ballathiehousehotel.com,
473121, www.easthaugh.co.uk
Crabtree & Crabtree
01721 720892
1 Bridge Street, Kelso, Scottish
www.tontinehotel.com
01250 883268 www.ballathiehousehotel.com
Borders, EH45 8AJ
Errichel House ****/***** Crieff Road, Aberfeldy, Perthshire,
Barley Bree Restaurant &
PH15 2EL
Rooms ****
enquiries@errichel.co.uk
6 Willoughby Street, Muthill, Nr
01887 820850 / 07974 171699
Crieff, Perthshire, PH5 2AB
www.errichel.co.uk
info@barleybree.com, 01764 681451, www.barleybree.com
The Kenmore Hotel *** The Square, Kenmore, Aberfeldy,
Cauldhame Country House
Perthshire, PH15 2NU
& Cottages
alan.reid@kenmorehotel.com
Kippenrait, Sheriffmuir, Dunblane,
01887 830205
Perthshire, FK15 0LN
www.kenmorehotel.com
The Lodge Carfraemill
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
15
Travel Info
HOW TO GET HERE Whether coming from the south, Ireland or overseas, research your transport options and get to Scotland safely and quickly
S
cotland is well connected by major
Eurowings
roads, train links, airports and
www.eurowings.com; 0330 365 1918
ferry ports.
Norwegian
Many domestic and international airlines
www.norwegian.com; 0330 828 0854
allow passengers to store firearms and ammunition
Qatar Airways
in the hold – though international visitors travelling
www.qatarairways.com
via connecting flights should ensure your firearms
United Airlines
are permitted by each airline.
www.united.com; 08458 444777
If you want to arrive on your first day refreshed and bright-eyed, you can travel overnight on
Vueling www.vueling.com; 020 3514 3971
National Rail www.nationalrail.co.uk; 08457 484950
ScotRail’s Caledonian Sleeper train, which runs between London Euston and Scotland. There are
- Inform the booking agent that you are going to
Caledonian Sleeper
also regular services to Scotland from many major
be carrying ‘sporting firearms and ammunition.’
www.sleeper.scot; 0330 0600500
stations in England and Wales.
- You may accrue additional charges for the
Virgin Trains
carriage of sporting firearms and ammunition.
www.virgintrains.co.uk; 08450 008000
For more information about travelling to Scotland with a firearm or shotgun, turn to page 96.
- Try to obtain written confirmation by email, letter or fax that you have pre-booked the
By Car
firearm in question.
The two main driving routes to Scotland from the
- Contact the airline at least 72 hours before flying
south are via the east of England on the A1, or via
to confirm carriage of your firearms and check
the west using the M6, A74(M) and M74.
restrictions, charges and requirements. - Passengers are restricted to 5kg ammunition per
Coach travel
person.
Scottish Citylink (servicing more than 200 towns
- Airlines will often require proof that your firearms
and cities in Scotland)
are licensed, either when booking or checking in.
www.citylink.co.uk; 08712 663333
Make sure you have the necessary documentation.
Postbus
Air travel
- Ensure your firearms are in a purpose-built and
(Northern and Scottish mail delivery service that
Major airlines serving Scotland
securely locked gun case, separated from your
accepts fee-paying passengers)
ammunition and main luggage.
www.postbus.royalmail.com; 08457 740740
UK
National Express (servicing the UK)
British Airways
Rail travel
www.nationalexpress.com; 08717 818178
www.britishairways.com; 08444 930787
Approximate travel times:
Eurolines (servicing the rest of Europe)
Eastern Airways
London-Edinburgh: 4hr 30min
www.eurolines.co.uk; 08717 818178
www.easternairways.com; 01652 680600
London-Glasgow: 5hr
easyJet
Regular services throughout the day from main
Ferry travel
www.easyjet.com; 08431 045000
English cities. Overnight sleepers also available.
Many cruise lines offer travel to Scotland
Flybe
LNER
throughout the year, with journey times from
www.flybe.com; 08717 002000
www.lner.co.uk; 03457 225333
Ireland starting from one hour.
Logan Airways www.loganair.co.uk; 01418 487594 Ryanair www.ryanair.com; 0871 246 0000
International Air Canada rouge www.flyrouge.com; 001 888 247 2262
Local firearms licensing departments Aberdeen 01224 306270 | firearmslicensingaberdeen@scotland.pnn.police.uk Stirling 01259 727668 | firearmslicensingstirling@scotland.pnn.police.uk Dundee 01382 596858 | firearmslicensingdundee@scotland.pnn.police.uk
Air France
Edinburgh 01313 113297 | firearmslicensingedinburgh@scotland.pnn.police.uk
www.airfrance.co.uk; 08716 633777
Glasgow 101 | firearmslicensingglasgow@scotland.pnn.police.uk
Brussels Airlines
Inverness 01463 720484 | firearmslicensinginverness@scotland.pnn.police.uk
www.brusselsairlines.com; 09056 095609 Emirates www.emirates.com; 08448 002777
16
www.countrysportscotland.com
Glenrothes 01592 418424 | firearmslicensingglenrothes@scotland.pnn.police.uk Dumfries 08456 005701| firearmslicensingdumfries@scotland.pnn.police.uk
review Schultz and Larsen Victory
Flawless Victory
Stuart Wilson reviews a hill-ready rifle with 150 years of history behind it. It’s the Schultz & Larsen Victory in 6.5x55
I
have admired Schultz & Larsen rifles for many years now, sold a few and handled them in various
shops, but I had never fired one, neither stalking nor on target. The overall finish is always very good, aesthetically they tick my box, so when I needed a review rifle supplied quickly, it was the ideal opportunity to have a quick conversation with a gun shop near me about collecting a Schultz & Larsen Victory in 6.5x55 Swedish. It came ready scoped, zeroed, complete with moderator and slip and the preferred ammunition. I planned to put a couple of rounds on to paper to check the zero, then sneak a few sessions in search of a buck that dared show himself. My first job was to do the usual research. Scanning through the most recent brochure to get myself up to speed, with the rifle propped beside my desk, I could also get my own measurements rather than take anything for granted. After a good read through and several shoulderings I was soon getting more familiar and confident. This model
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www.countrysportscotland.com
The ‘slide & lock’ mounts have summer and winter settings, to allow for thicker clothing needing a shorter eye relief
review Schultz and Larsen Victory
The forend chequering is crisp and precise
I can appreciate that the classic lines would be
is 14x1mm and is threaded for the UK market
compromised. The wood is nicely figured, with an
specifically, you can have the barrel unthreaded,
oil finish that has the satin sheen to it that only
and other options like fluting, either straight or
comes from use in the field. Yes, this is a pretty
spiralled. The switch barrel design of the Schultz &
rifle but it is put to good use in all conditions, from
Larsen Victory also means calibre changes can be
hind culling in Scotland to roe stalking in Yorkshire.
performed pretty quickly, with magnum calibres
Nonetheless it gets looked after.
needing the larger faced bolt installing to match
The butt stock features a straight combed
any magnum barrel. Pop the stock off and loosen
cheekpiece, which positions your eye naturally
the bottom bolts that keep the barrel located
for scoped shooting, with high mounts for the
and the barrel can be drawn out. As the bolt’s
8x56 making it just a smidgen high for my liking.
three lugs lock into the barrel it is sometimes a
I may be splitting hairs here as I only really
handy feature being able to drop the barrel out
noticed this as I mounted the rifle as I write,
for cleaning of the lug abutments. The rifle is no
not in any field situation. The butt pad is a good
heavier due to the switch barrel design, and you
quality ventilated Wegu pad. This brown pad
can quite happily use the rifle with one barrel; it
can be substituted with one of brick-red colour
is, however, nice to have the option of switching a
is the Victory with Grade 2 upgraded woodwork,
with some of the higher grades of wood. The
barrel out, regardless of the reason.
in 6.5x55 Swedish, and the ammunition is RWS,
overall finish of the stock is fantastic – I dread to
the scope topping the rifle is a good old Schmidt
think of the dedicated, skilled hours it takes to
chrome moly steel, with the top of the Victory
& Bender 8x56 1” tubed German with the
achieve this finish.
machined to accept the Slide & Lock mounts,
bombproof A7 reticle, with the muzzle sporting
The action, like the barrel, is machined from
which allow the scope to be moved backwards
Barrel and action
then forwards for summer stalking in thinner
The barrel and action of the Schultz & Larsen
clothing or winter stalking in thicker jackets. True
FIRST IMPRESSION
are machined in-house, with all finishing work
to Schultz & Larsen style, the actions are also
Viewing the rifle for the first time, you can
to final polishing and any coating/bluing done
drilled and tapped to accept other bases such as
not mistake the quality of the woodwork. It’s
in house to their exacting standards. We have
weaver rails. Cycling the bolt shows the accuracy
a splendid piece of Grade 2 walnut, with a
Hans Schultz, the founder, to thank for the level
of all the machined surfaces that have then
semi pistol grip, crisp chequering fore and aft,
of craftsmanship, accuracy and strength that
been lovingly polished, leaving a slick bolt action.
rosewood forend tip and the same on the bottom
we still find in Schultz & Larsen rifles today. This
The bolt handle is swept back slightly, and has a
of the pistol grip. The dimensions are good: 14in
philosophy reaches further into the heart of the
small weight-saving hole bored into its end. The
(355mm) length of pull, a pleasing right-hand palm
design of the rifle which we will see as I highlight
one-piece three-lug design has a neat extractor
swell, which is chequered both sides, with the
some of the safety features. The barrels are all cut
that runs in a small slot machined into one of
wrist of the stock settling the hand nicely allowing
rifled from straight, stress-relieved chrome moly
the bolt lugs with the plunger firing cases out of
the trigger finger to ease the safety catch on/
steel, and great care is then taken as the blanks
the ejection port smartly. There is the usual slot
off when needed. The forend, also chequered, is
are bored and cut rifled before being internally
machined down the side of the bolt that runs
elegant while remaining deep enough to keep my
polished – I would love to see this process as
over the same bolt release lever, keeping the bolt
fingers off the barrel, with the final standard touch
it involves unique tin laps, individually honing
running straight and true. With the bolt closed in
of sling swivels front and rear.
every barrel, then a huge number of finishing
the action, three holes can be seen on the bolt
processes. The goal is uniformity of all dimensions
lining up into the ejection port, their function is
and the final polished finish. The muzzle thread
to safely port gases away from the shooter even
one of Schultz & Larsen’s own moderators.
This is certainly one rifle that I would not attach a bipod to. I am a fully fledged heathen, but even
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
19
review Schultz and Larsen Victory
weight, overall and how it affects the handling and carrying of a rifle. But I am biased towards moderators, and would normally go for a triedand-tested one-piece design. Recently, and even more so after using Schultz & Larsen’s MC38 Ultradome, I would happily explore using a light alloy modular moderator. Strip, clean, change threads – all positives to add to an efficient moderator. The Swede has never been a savage calibre, but adding a moderator smoothed the Schultz & Larsen remarkably. Add that to the fact that contractors are cutting and harvesting the silage fields around the hunting box I am sat writing this review in, and I don’t think an opportune moderated shot would cause any great alarm. The slightly swept-back bolt cycles smoothly, giving ample clearance for fast reloads
“ This is a pretty rifle but it is put to good use in all conditions, from hind culling in Scotland to roe stalking in Yorkshire ”
Conclusion I thoroughly enjoyed my brief encounter with the Schultz & Larsen Victory. It is definitely an ‘Ooh, what’s that?’ rifle when you show people, it handles well, and has no compromise machining and finishing. The standard model retails at around £2,000 – for a switch-barrel that represents excellent value when you consider the level of craftsmanship.
in the unlikely event of a case rupture or primer
The moderator
blow out.
Love them or hate them, moderators can
Specifications
Continuing with the safety theme, the
make a big difference. A well-made moderator,
three-position safety catch does the usual
installed and maintained correctly, will reduce
forward for fire, rear for safe, with the middle
noise, recoil, and sometimes muzzle flip. With
Barrel: 545mm
position being safe but with the bolt unlocked,
practice, you are more likely to see the strike
Length of pull: 355mm
in the fully rear safe position the rifle is safe,
with a moderated shot. Personal preference and certain other
the bolt locked and the firing pin is also blocked, making for very safe rifle. This is not a
criteria sometimes lead shooters to avoid
substitute for muzzle awareness!
moderators. They are another link in the chain, something else to look after or potentially go
Magazine and trigger
wrong, and perhaps the main gripe is the added
Length: 1075mm (1195mm with mod)
Weight: 4150g scoped without mod Moderator: MC38 Ultradome 225mm Mod weight: 325g Contact: Alan Rhone 01978 660001 greatdanerifles.com
The bottom metal is like everything else on the Schultz & Larsen – if it looks like metal and should be metal then it is, and it’s beautifully machined, polished and blued. Two action screws are countersunk into the bottom metal, the magazine release button is also nicely recessed near the front action screw, and to the rear of the magazine opening is a small sprung detente. This pops the single stack magazine out. The magazine is, as you should now expect, solidly built and finished to the Schultz & Larsen standard – single stack which feeds perfectly and loads easily, and would take one in the chamber and three loaded into the magazine. Moving on to the trigger, the standard unit is a single-stage affair, but this review rifle has a very fine two-stage upgrade. I am a big fan of twostage triggers, even in hunting rifles. It is crisp and breaks like glass. I am not overly fussy on triggers – I just really appreciate a top quality unit.
20
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The magazine is a simple straight stack, feeds faultlessly, and pops in and out of the rifle easily
Gear rifles
Rifle roundup Four more rifles to keep you on target when taking shots on the hill
Mauser M18 M12, Mauser's latest rifle
Ruger American Predator
Bergara B14 Hunting Match Rifle
is actually a callback to the
Featuring a moss green
Built on the B14 bolt action,
classic M98, embodying its
composite stock and
the latest releases from
total reliability without any
a blued barrel, this
Bergara have an integrated
unnecessary features that
version of the American
mini chassis for repeatable
would bump up the price.
Centrefire has all the
bedding and accuracy. The
It’s a workhorse rifle that is
features of the line. This
B14 Hunting Match Rifle
nevertheless an incredibly
includes the Marksman
(pictured) has a synthetic
effective package despite
Adjustable trigger and a
stock with an adjustable
its low price. With heaps
one-piece, three-lug bolt
cheek piece and spacers
of durability, stability and
with 70-degree throw. The
to customise length of pull.
reliability built in, Mauser
barrel is hammer-forged
This model is available in
calls it the ‘people’s rifle’,
and free floating. The rifle
6.5 Creedmoor with a 22
and it’s available in a
comes with a 4+1 rotary
inch standard barrel or .308
range of poular calibres:
magazine that fits flush to
Win. in either 20 or 24 inch
.308 and .30-06 to begin
the stock and is available
standard barrel. There’s
with, with .243, .270. 7mm
in .204, .22-250, .223,
also a Match Precision
Rem and .300 Win Mag
.243, .6.5 and .308. The
version in 6.5 Creedmoor
following on soon, so it
Predator has a one piece
with a 24-inch varmint
can be used for foxes, roe
aluminium rail fitted, so
barrel or .308 Win with a 20
or even larger deer on
it’s easy to attach a scope
inch varmint barrel. Both
the hill.
and get hunting.
models have threaded
Price: £766
Price: £680
barrels and five round AICS-
Blaser 01483 917412
Viking Arms
type magazines.
blaser-sporting.com
01423 780810
Price: £1,038
vikingarms.com
RUAG 01579 362319
Coming six years after the
ruag.co.uk
Tikka T3X Lite Synthetic Stainless The T3X Lite Synthetic Stainless is the latest development of Tikka’s
ejection port, metallic bolt shroud, improved rail attachment and
T3 model. The T3 has been a huge seller over the years, and it just
a steel recoil lug. It’s available in right and left-handed versions in
keeps on getting better thanks to constant innovations from the
calibres from .222 to .30-06.
manufacturer. This version features several improvements including
Price: £1,195
a new modular stock, improved grip, a new recoil pad, redesigned
GMK 01489 587500 gmk.co.uk
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
21
gear up shotgun selection
shotgun selection Investing in some game-shooting hardware? Richard Atkins navigates the perilous waters that surround buying a shotgun, from fit to weight to price
B
uying a shotgun can
first decision to be made is whether to buy a new,
to give a reasonable fit. Length of pull is easily
be daunting. Advice
budget-priced gun or a second-hand model from
adjusted, but if you have a longer or shorter
from well-meaning
one of the better known brands. It is possible to
neck than average, for example, some makes
friends can help,
buy what appears to be a remarkably good value
and models will suit you better. A good gun shop
but without understanding the factors that
gun – but will that gun help you progress, or might
can also help with this and it should be fairly
influence how a new gun will suit you, you are
it hold you back? Let us look into some factors
straightforward to select a gun, new or pre-owned,
liable to find yourself repeating the process
that can influence the performance potential of a
that naturally guides your eye to look along the
sooner rather than later.
shotgun, the importance of which might otherwise
top rib when comfortably mounted, with your
be overlooked or underestimated.
cheek on the comb.
Anyone who browses internet forums will know that newcomers frequently ask for advice about
Not everyone will want exactly the same feel
Having a comb raised or lowered is nothing
buying a gun for game – or indeed for clays or
and handling qualities from their gun, but with
to fear and neither is a minor adjustment to
anything else. The vast range of comments that
that said, there are some basic fundamentals
cast. Adjustable combs are common these days,
come back will often confuse as much as assist.
about what feels good in the hands and
even on guns costing under £1,000 new (the
The most common response is, “Get one that
enhances performance. If the key things
ATA SP o/u is one example). Adjustable comb
fits.” Sound advice, but not easily achieved unless
are lacking then this can hinder a shooter’s
stocks also allow easy adjustments of cast to
you have access to a good gun shop with a broad
progress. These key factors are fit, weight,
align the eye with the top rib. You cannot shoot
stock selection and knowledgeable staff. And fit is
trigger pulls and balance or handling.
to your full potential if a low comb is causing
not the only aspect that needs to be considered.
Gun fit can be assessed by visiting a clay range
your gun’s receiver to obscure its rib; neither
with a good coach, having a lesson and getting
will you be consistent if your gun’s alignment is
Budget considerations
some advice. The coach will be able to outline the
causing you to shoot to one side of your target
The amount you have available to spend will, of
basic dimensions that should suit and possibly
– a particular problem for shooting driven game
course, be important. Bearing this in mind, the
give some indication of what guns are more likely
that’s coming directly towards you. Similarly,
22
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GEAR UP shotgun selection
a low comb can cause a shooter to raise their head to get a better view of the bird, and this too leads to inconsistency. Gun weight should be dictated by a combination of build, strength and what the gun will be used for. A heavier gun will help soak up recoil, but you have to trade that off with weight. If the gun will see extended field use, then something a little lighter might be better for days walking around the fields.
Trigger pulls An important consideration when selecting a shotgun, new or pre-owned, is how its trigger pulls feel. This can be easily missed when trying a gun in a shop, especially if there isn’t an opportunity to try some dry fire ‘shots’ in a back room or quiet area. If you can actually take a gun to a shooting ground then that’s ideal. A pair of snap caps and some practice mounting, swings and dry-firing will tell you more than just whether the gun fits. Trigger pulls have several aspects to consider: release weight; length of pull to release;
Adjustable combs are becoming an increasingly common feature on off-the-shelf stocks
smoothness in releasing the shot; pre-travel (sometimes called ‘take-up’) and over-travel
Triggers that have overly long pre-travel or a
themselves to the finest trigger pulls. You only
(excessive movement after release). The most
‘gritty’ feel can be unhelpful too, as can too much
have to examine the inner workings of a premium
significant of these is release weight. If a gun
play before the trigger engages with the sear
grade gun to see its intricate design and high-
makes you think the safety catch might be on
lifters. Simply put, poor trigger pulls can spoil any
quality manufacture. This needs time and the skill
when it is not, then it will be extremely difficult
gun’s potential, and with it the potential of the
of true craftsman to assemble, fit and adjust. That
to shoot well with it, because it will be difficult to
shooter who uses it. Conversely, a decent pull
is what it takes to achieve the short, crisp, trigger
ensure it goes off at the moment your brain says
release will help your technique immensely.
pulls with sub-4lb release weights found on the
to pull the trigger. This could make you mistime
All these features depend on the design
majority of high-grade competition shotguns.
your shot release and miss your intended line.
and quality of the trigger mechanism (which
Trigger weights that fall between 4 and 5½lbs
dictates the way the sear and bent engagement
Handling
usually work out OK, especially if the release is
and release operates). The easiest systems
The handling qualities of any gun are difficult to
smooth and not too long.
to manufacture and assemble do not lend
adequately describe; it would require a small book
Extended choke tubes can affect the handling of your shotgun, so try before you buy where possible
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
23
gear up shotgun selection
‘muzzle heavy’. Since interchangeable chokes became almost universal, balance points have tended to move forward. To complicate matters, simply balancing on the hinge point is not enough for a gun to handle really well. If balance is achieved by using a light receiver combined with heavy barrels and a stock weighted to counter them, then the gun can feel ‘dead’ in the hands. Such guns are difficult to point instinctively and can take more effort to get moving. On the other hand, if the gun has a heavy receiver and its barrels are carefully profiled to avoid undue weight, the weight then becomes centred closer to the receiver and is said to ‘fall between the hands’. The effect of this is to make the gun feel lighter than it actually is, especially when held with both hands. Multi-chokes can move balance points further forward than is ideal. This is for two reasons: firstly the barrel tubes must be made thicker to accept A look at the workings of your gun’s action will often reveal where your money has been spent (or where savings have been made)
the recess and threads for the choke tubes. This can be achieved either by gradually increasing the outside barrels’ diameter from part way along their length, or by swaging out just the last few inches of barrel. Some makers, particularly in the
to do full justice to the topic, so the advice here is
to identify the features of a gun’s handling
budget sector of the market, have thicker walls
only a snapshot.
that complement their shooting style. Many
that taper for quite a distance – approaching half
things play a part in the handling qualities of
the barrels’ length. This adds more weight as you
feeling and feedback one gets when using a
a gun, but one of the most important is how it
get nearer to the muzzles. Most premium makers
shotgun. What feels wrong to one person might
balances. The hinge pins are frequently used
keep tapering to a minimum to avoid excess
be perfect for another. But although subjective
as the reference point to talk about balance;
forward weight.
preferences play a role, it is still true that using
shooters talk about their guns’ balance in terms
Secondly, the choke tubes themselves can
good quality equipment can make the experience
of how far in front of or behind the hinge point
be quite heavy too. Extended choke tubes may
easier, more satisfying and more enjoyable.
their centres of gravity are. A gun that balances
look smart, but the steel ones add considerable
A gun that handles well will improve
exactly on the hinge pins is said to have ‘neutral’
forward weight and can upset your gun’s balance
shooting performance. As a shooter gains
balance; as balance moves toward forward
and handling qualities. Some premium brands
more experience they become better able
(toward the muzzles) it becomes increasingly
offer titanium chokes, which are lighter than steel.
There are no absolute terms to define the
Even extended chokes will improve balance if The quality of your trigger mechanism will determine the feel and weight of your trigger pulls
they are made of titanium. Muller also produce ceramic extended choke tubes, which are also much lighter than steel. Hopefully this article provides some modest insight into the factors that create a shotgun that brings out the best in its user. During a gun test, when a gun feels right and handles well, even targets I thought I had misjudged will break; with a less lively gun that lacks that intuitive feel, the reverse can happen. Many years of testing guns regularly has revealed to me that the qualities that make for a better handling shotgun – one that can improve your performance and raise your confidence – are more likely to be found with a higher price tag. That need not mean spending a small fortune; there are some really quality made older guns available pre-owned at attractive prices. Some research and trials will show that there are reasons why some guns cost more than others. Discovering these for yourself can be very useful in the long run.
24
www.countrysportscotland.com
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DEER DSC1
Get qualified
The DSC1 isn’t just a piece of paper – it’s something every Scottish stalker, amateur or professional, should think about getting. Chris Dalton gives the inside view on how to pass it
S
ummer stalking is
been added to my list by my wife. These will be
makes for a productive trip if you can tick a few
upon me as I write this
in the high priority category and are coded ‘Must
boxes on the foray north.
article. It’s great stalking
do today’. Most of you will well know what I mean,
in warm weather,
and it’s best not to grumble and just get them
Why should I take it?
done, preferably yesterday.
My opinion on the DSC1 is that is is a very good
but boy, does it mean long days and short nights. I have said it many times but it’s worth
The more astute of my regular stalkers have
qualification and worth doing. A question I often
repeating: The life of a professional stalker at
long since sussed that at this time of year it’s more
get asked is, ‘But does it really benefit you?’ Yes it
this time of year invariably involves the alarm
pleasant to do the morning and maybe look at
most certainly does. If you are new to the world
going off just after you have set it, especially if
doing something else during the afternoon or
of stalking, the police will invariably require you
you’re guiding in the morning then overseeing
evening – skip the midnight return after a long
to take it to get a deer-legal firearm, so that’s
an evening vigil from a high seat.
session waiting for that big buck to appear in front
one benefit right from the off. Yes, there are
of the seat before you have to face the 2.30am
exceptions to this, and no it’s not a requirement
are treated to some great stalking, in wonderful
alarm call. That makes it a good time to get on
of the licensing regulations, but you may as
surroundings with hopefully a lovely roebuck in
with the Deer Stalking Certificate level one (DSC
well accept it for all sorts of reasons. It’s a good
fox-red coat hanging in the chiller. Then shower,
1), if you have not taken it. You can get a bit of
idea – just get on with it. Increasingly you will
relax and enjoy a legendary Garryloop breakfast,
stalking in, have time to chill/revise, and then do
find – and this is certainly true for commercial
then time for a nap and chill before venturing out
the assessment. I have done a fair bit of assessing
forestry ground – that you will need a minimum
again in the late evening. For me, yes I get the
for guys in this fashion over recent years during
of DSC1 to stalk unaccompanied on a deer lease
breakfast, but then I’m off to deal with the myriad
the summer months and it does work well. If folk
or sporting agreement. So if you don’t have DSC1
jobs I have, plus a few unexpected ones that have
are travelling quite a way, which they often are, it
and want an FAC for stalking, and land to stalk on
It’s great for the guests who stay with us – they
28
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DEER DSC1
elements you have achieved are signed off, and as long as you retake the module you failed within three years, that’s the DSC1 passed.
What is involved? Essentially, there are five elements. Two are practical, if I can call them that: a range test, which simulates exactly what you do if you pay for stalking, or indeed what you will likely do if you have your own stalking ground. Stalking clients will be taken on to the range just to check the rifle is set up and zeroed correctly, and then make sure that the guest can shoot straight and is safe. If you travel for recreational stalking, you will invariably be taken to a target set up somewhere, again just to check that the rifle is OK before heading out on your first morning. The test involves getting three shots within the standard four-inch group from 100 metres prone. You can use a bipod, rest on a coat or roe sack – whatever you would have with you in the field. You can have three attempts at this, but you must get all three shots into the target area before you can move on to a different target, which is a silhouette of a deer. There is no defined scoring area on Chris demonstrates principles of safe firearms handling before a ‘stalk’ round the estate
this second test, or at least one you can see from the firing point. You now take six shots from
via the syndicate route, my advice is give the police
on the food safety aspects of handling and
three different firing positions – prone from 100
firearms enquiry officers what they want: good
processing deer. It’s also the stepping stone to the
metres, kneeling or sitting from 70 metres and
reason along with demonstrable training and a
Deer Stalking Certificate level two (DSC2).
then standing from 40 metres. Two shots from
recognised qualification. I have taken many hundreds of folk through
It can seem daunting, especially when that thick
each stand – again this is really only simulating
training manual lands on the doormat, but over
the sort of shots you may be presented with while
the DSC1 over the years and I think we should
the years I have been involved with assessments,
stalking. You do not need a rifle and can take the
all take credit for the uptake of the qualification,
the pass rate has been high. Remember also that
assessment using the ‘estate rifle facility’, but you
which is done voluntarily on all but a very few
it’s a five-module exam, so should you fail one
need to organise this in advance and meet the
occasions. Having DSC1 does not make you
or more elements then it’s not a disaster. The
legal requirements for it.
a good stalker, but it does mean you have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in all aspects of stalking, from the law through deer ecology, recognition and the like. You will have demonstrated competence in the safe handling of firearms and completed a comprehensive safety evaluation, along with achieving compliance
The marksmanship test during its final standing phase at 40 metres
Sticks are permitted but you must place three shots in the target area
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
29
DEER DSC1
margin of error. The final element is a visual paper.
halfway house, which involves self-study as well
simulated stalk where you will be asked 10 safety-
The safety assessment is a walk around a
Here you will be shown 20 pictures of a random
as a revision session before the assessment.
related questions and have to explain what you
selection of the six UK species of deer and have to
would do in the circumstances or scenario given.
identify the species and sex. Again the pass mark
If you are stalking, or fancy taking up the sport, I
During this ‘stalk’, you will carry a rifle and there
is 80 per cent.
strongly recommend that you take it. It will stand
will always be at least one question asking you to
So really you have no excuse for not doing it.
you in very good stead.
do something with the rifle – this may be crossing
How do I get it?
an obstacle or perhaps handing the firearms to
So there you have it: The DSC1. There are
private stalking ground may well feel that you
the assessor. There will also be four deer targets
three ways to take the assessment. The first
don’t need to bother with DSC1. However, over
strategically placed around the route and you will
is a full-blown training course followed by the
recent years I have lost count of the number
have to state whether you would take the shot or
assessment. This usually takes three to four
of folk who have called me in a flat spin after
not, i.e. is it safe.
days and these are run by various providers –
they lost ground for whatever reason – most
BASC and BDS will be the main players. You can
commonly sale of ground or a bereavement
choice papers, one general paper of 50 questions
also do it all on your own: self-study and simply
– and all of sudden they have no stalking and
and a large game handling paper of 40 questions.
sit the assessment with an organisation/location
can’t get on to land or into a syndicate without
The pass mark is 80 per cent, so there is a decent
of your choice. I actually run an option of a
this qualification. You have been warned.
Back in the classroom, you sit two multiple
Those of you who are fortunate and have
“ Having DSC1 does not make you a good stalker, but it does mean you have demonstrated knowledge and understanding in all aspects of stalking, from the law through to deer ecology ” Chris and his latest crop of students inspect a shot target
30
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stalking red deer
Preparing for the Hill Are you heading to the Highlands for a rutting stag this autumn? Be warned, says Dominic Griffith – your lowland stalking skills will only take you so far
32
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stalking red deer
T
he lowland stalker
satisfaction from having battled the elements and
fleeces for back-up warmth. With gloves and hats
has a relatively easy
come through on top of things.
of similar performance, there is really no need to
life. Roe tend to be inactive in cold, wet
Today there is really little excuse for suffering
be uncomfortable for the majority of occasions.
such discomfort. Gore-Tex lined boots such as
That said, it wouldn’t be highland stalking if you
and windy weather and so stalking is best
Meindls mean that you start and finish your day
weren’t challenged a bit and whatever you are
left for better days. They can be approached
with warm dry feet. All the major manufacturers
wearing you will still get cold and miserable lying in
comfortably from the upright position and are
produce lightweight warm and waterproof stalking
a peat hag in the rain for an hour. And don’t forget
easy to handle post cull.
trousers like my old Deerhunter Deer-Tex, which
midge cream and a midge net – the Scottish
have kept me going for many years but have no
midge can ruin a day quicker than the rain!
and perfected, and yes, you have to adapt to
doubt now been replaced by something even
Nowadays it is quite usual to carry a small daysack
restricted sleep and very early starts, but generally
better. And again there is an enormous range of
with your piece (lunch), spare clothes, dragging
the art of roe stalking is one of a gentle approach
waterproof smocks and jackets with lightweight
rope and other essentials or emergency items.
Yes, the standing shot needs to be practised
made under relatively benign conditions. Fallow offer their own challenges – they are just too big to handle comfortably alone, groups can be easier to approach in atrocious weather conditions, and they can frustrate the stalker through constantly changing behaviour. Nothing of this, however,
“ Stalking starts after a leisurely breakfast but thereafter relaxation is replaced by many hours marching relentlessly up perpendicular mountains ”
prepares you for the rigours of a day in the Highlands for red. Although red deer come down from the hill at night to feed, the tradition on many estates is to set out in pursuit well after they have made their
Once you reach the top of the hill, the exertion will seem but a distant memory
way back up the tops. So stalking starts after a leisurely breakfast but thereafter relaxation is replaced by many hours marching relentlessly up perpendicular mountains, or patiently enduring the rain and midges whilst lying face down in a bog waiting either for a particular stag or hind to get up or for a stubborn bank of mist to clear. An ill-prepared guest may find this a punishing experience, so how should you best prepare for what in the round is simply one of Scotland’s finest experiences? Preparing for the mountains is made easier today by the wealth of excellent kit that is available. But the choice is almost too big and the prices so high that it’s not easy to experiment and find the right compromise between comfort, durability, water resistance and warmth. Setting off from the south on a mild late September/early October day, you might find it difficult to adapt to the temperature drop that can be experienced at 2000ft or just how debilitating a 40mph wind with biting showers can be on a mountain side. When I worked as a pony boy in the early 1980s
Credit: Justin Tallis / Staff / Getty Images
we would go to the hill in dubbined leather boots, which would remain water resistant for perhaps an hour or two, tweed breeks whose turnovers would trap the worst of the water and keep it away from your skin, and on our backs would be a waxed Barbour jacket with a spare woollen jersey underneath it wrapped around the waist. The idea, as so it remains today, is to avoid getting too hot and sweaty going uphill but to have something spare to put on when you get to the top, all covered by a waterproof outer. Of course the jacket wasn’t really waterproof, the boots leaked like sieves and you simply got used to ending your day soaked and chilled, but with a warm glow of
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
33
stalking red deer
Stay fit and prepared, follow the stalker’s instructions, and you stand a good chance of success
But above all, a day without binoculars is a wasted
“ Mountain men find it just as uncomfortable going uphill as you do, but they have learnt that it is easier to ascend if you don’t stop ”
day and each member of the stalking party will get so much more from the experience if they have their own pair. All this kit won’t help if you don’t prepare yourself as well. Before you visit try to get hill-fit by walking locally and stretching those calves, hamstrings and Achilles tendons. Mountain men
at the action and poke your head over the skyline
moment that you first spot your selected quarry
find it just as uncomfortable going uphill as you
can be irresistible but terminal. The rule is to try
in the morning, a good approach will keep it out of
do, but they have learnt that it is easier to ascend
to keep lower than the guide at all times and,
your view for most of the stalk.
if you don’t stop. So they will put their heads down
quite frequently, the first time you see the chosen
and plod away on flat feet until they reach the
quarry may be when the stalker passes you the
distances and then settle yourself quickly for
summit. A good guide will keep his pace down but
rifle and crawls you up to the firing point. There
the shot and be prepared with a dragging rope
as the season progresses there is an inevitable
can then be a few frantic moments as you locate
to help if necessary with extraction. Dragging a
increase in speed as they strive to get the climb
the indicated beast which has by now probably
20-stone stag even a short distance through rank
behind them. Just be aware that frequent stops
seen something and may be alert. The shot
heather, dying bracken and rocky burns can make
make the climb more difficult, so try to get a
however should be reasonably straightforward
that earlier ascent seem like a pushover.
plodding rhythm going and keep up with the
being from the prone position and supported,
guide. Once the top is reached, the day becomes
either with bipod or rucksack.
so much easier and you will soon forget the rigours of the ascent. Red deer have an acute sense of smell and extraordinary eyesight. The desire to get a look
34
A day on the hill involves incredible scenery,
For the final approach, expect to crawl for long
Finally, never leave anyone back at the lodge because after a busy day doing nothing they will inevitably decide to have a prolonged and leisurely
pure air, a wealth of wildlife, and a great walk. A
bath at about 5pm and thereby deprive the
successful stalk requires patience, fieldcraft skills
returning tired and soaked stalking party of the
and a steady nerve at the firing point. From the
limited supply of precious hot water….
www.countrysportscotland.com
hinds wilderness
Walk on the Wild Side Detailing a different kind of hunt, Byron Pace reports from his wilderness red hind stalks in the 2017 season
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
37
hinds wilderness
A
utumn 2018 was
mean that come February, I am well set for the
warm. Very warm. I
following six months.
remember taking a trip to the south of
As the mornings cool, and the pre-dawn frosts become more regular, I begin to think about
Ireland – the stag season had just closed, yet
our organised wilderness hunts. It may seem
few trees had really turned and t-shirts were
a strange time of year be camping out, but it is
still the attire of choice.
the ideal combination of affordability, challenge
Thankfully, while I was away, some decent rain
and variety of hunting.
came to the Angus Glens and much of the country
Last year saw two parties join us on two
I call home. This brings with it the classic time of
separate hunts – one in November and one in
the year for field sports. The rivers are up, and
January. We have been lucky in that every group
the salmon can finally make their last push to
of people who has come on our hunts have
begin spawning. And the red rut brings travelling
bonded and made for an unforgettable all-round
hunters in their droves.
experience. It’s not always like that, as I know from
But that’s not what captures my attention.
other trips and hunts I have been on. Sometimes
Instead, I’m looking forward to the hind season
one person can shift the mood in camp, positively
and roe does. The red rut is always awesome, and
or negatively. But that doesn’t happen here.
this year I sampled the Irish sika rut as well, but
Maybe it’s the type of hunters who want to come
when it comes to hunting, the pursuit of hinds
on a wilderness hunt, in a location with no mobile
really gives me pleasure. Yes, the weather tends
signal, wi-fi, shower or heating. A place where we
to suck; yes, the days are short; and yes, it’s cold,
cook food over a fire, sleep in a communal tent,
but I love it. It is hunting in its purest form. There
and use an outside toilet consisting of little more
can be no question or accusations of ‘trophy
than a box with a two-foot hole dug below it.
hunting’, and there is no denying that this time of
It takes a certain person to seek this out,
year forms one of the most important time frames
and know that we are responsible for all our
for effective, sustainable management. As most
own actions. We make it clear to everyone that
people know, it is the management of the female
although we are there to help each other, we
component of any population which drives the
all must be prepared to graft and consider the
dynamics in terms of overall numbers.
consequences of pulling the trigger. We remove
It brings me great satisfaction to know I have
the convenience of mechanised vehicles as much
helped play a small part in the management
as possible, requiring all game to be transported
strategy of wherever I am lucky enough to
manually to base camp. When your animal drops,
experience is limited, hunters must be prepared
be hunting. Of course, it also comes with the
there needs to be a plan to get it out. That could
to participate and learn.
great benefit of filling my freezer, with the bird
mean a drag. It could be a pack out in pieces, but
hunting season firmly thrust upon us as well.
there is no stalker to look to for the hump home.
of the season, with Scotland in the grip of one of
Venison sourced on my own permission, wildfowl
No one is going to get their hands dirty for you
the bitterly coldest winters in many, many years.
successfully shot, and game birds taken home will
when it comes to the gralloch. At the very least, if
One consequence of this was that our camp
Unusually, the snow remained in place for most
location had to change owing to the barrier of deep snow filling the only track in. These things happen, and we adapted to the cards that we were dealt, instead moving to the opposite side of the estate where the track out lay higher, more exposed to the wind, and mostly clear of snow. On the November trip, I had the pleasure of my dad joining to lend a hand, with my brother still firmly out of action following an injury sustained in a gun line (and mentioned in last year’s Shoot In Scotland). We wouldn’t know it at that point, but he would be laid up for a further six months after falling and smashing his knee open on a shoot. It took a surgery in June of this year to finally get it on the mend. A solid group of friends had come together as a team of four, spending three days facing every type of weather Scotland could throw at them. From gale force winds dumping waves of snow, to whisper-quiet mornings under the harsh sun, we had it all. It wasn’t an easy few days, but everyone managed at least one animal each, with some The conditions don't stop the hunt from continuing – everyone adapts
38
www.countrysportscotland.com
tallying a beast a day.
hinds wilderness
This is as real as hunting gets
Unfortunately one of the crew damaged a muscle on day two, having to sit out the last day of hunting. As it turned out, the hunter had done some quite serious damage, knocking him out of the game for many months, with surgery needed
“ There is no stalker to look to for the hump home. No one is going to get their hands dirty for you when it comes to the gralloch ”
to aid recovery. Sometimes these things happen, and usually, as in this case, it’s not when doing the hard graft. It’s doing something that feels silly, like landing a bit awkwardly after jumping off a peat hag, or grabbing a backpack at a funny angle. The January trip brought even more snow and colder conditions, but the hunting was equally as memorable and enjoyable as the hunt two months before. Indeed, on numbers alone it was more successful, albeit with one hunter fewer than the max of four. It was just one of those trips where very little went wrong, and we totalled nine hinds for three hunters over the three days – all of which were extracted by hand. One of the aspects I enjoy the most about these hunts is the detachment from the outside world. It simply isn’t possible to communicate with anyone else apart from those hunters in your party. No one sits staring at a phone screen. People make conversation. They tell stories. Joke and laugh. It is how it should be. For information on Wilderness Hunts, visit www. thepacebrothers.com
Every hunter was responsible for the animals they took – right through to the drag out
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
39
grouse walked up
Roe debut
Credit: Paul A Carpenter/Shutterstock
During what’s usually a quiet period for roe, Chris Dalton breaks the silence by embarking on a guided stalk with the editor’s wife, Debs
E
arly September for
I had organised the schedule so we covered
mood because he paid – a truly uncommon
me is a strange one in
a DSC 1 revision session on the Friday, the
occurrence for a fellow Yorkshireman. All we
terms of accompanied
assessment on the Saturday and left the stalking
needed to do now was get Debs her first Scottish
stalking. We are
outing to Sunday morning. As it happened, that
roebuck. We met early the following morning, just
waiting for the red rut – every day from mid-
also suited the weather forecast for the weekend.
as a hint of daylight started to lighten the sky. My
month is booked, usually years in advance –
Debs passed all five elements of the DSC 1
plan was to stalk close to the house. Debs was
and we still have little roe activity after the rut,
assessment with a near-perfect score and proved
using my rifle from the shooting test – she shot
though they may start to show again about
competent on the range.
with a Tikka T3 Lite in .243, fitted with a titanium
now. The lack of opportunities is compounded
The first part of the weekend successfully
Lawrence Precision moderator and Swarovski
by high vegetation – maybe not in the stubble
negotiated, we enjoyed a celebratory meal in a
scope. So there would be no worries about her
fields and on the arable ground, but most of
local hostelry. Pete must have been in a good
hitting the deer – I just needed to find one. We
my ground still has bracken five feet high on the margins along with rosebay willowherb. Try finding a roebuck in that lot. So I usually plan a couple of DSC 1 training courses for this time. This coincided perfectly for Jason Doyle, who was on his way down from hill stalking in central Scotland with Shoot In Scotland’s editor, Pete Carr. Jason had booked in to take his DSC 1 and have a stalk on the roe as Garryloop sits on the route south to the Irish ferry terminal at Cairnryan. Additionally, Pete’s wife, Debs, who had been with them on the hill and had been talking about taking her DSC 1 for some time, decided to come down and take the assessment too. Debs had recently started to get into stalking – she had been out with Pete and, rather impressively, shot her first buck earlier in the year with him in Yorkshire. I said she might as well come out with me and learn how to stalk properly. And Pete agreed – believe that if you will…
40
Debs completes the range test before heading out to try for a buck
www.countrysportscotland.com
At the crucial moment, Debs stayed composed
roe ayrshire
A DSC1 and a first Scottish buck – not bad for a weekend!
were after a cull buck – this one was on me, so we were not shooting a trophy. Remember what I said about Yorkshiremen? I glassed the top margins of one of the fields on my ground not long after we had left the house, and could clearly see four roe browsing on the wood boundary. It was too dark to make out what they were, but by the law of averages there ought to a buck with them. My concern was that they looked to be feeding in – roe often do that and browse back in to cover at daylight, and it would take time to work up the wood margin to get into a possible shooting position. I suppose we had around 800 yards to cover to get to them. However, they were reasonably settled, so plan made, we worked into the wood and worked slowly to them, Oscar leading the way as normal. His nose was working – the wind was good and he could smell the deer. It took us 30 minutes to get to a spot where we could leave the cover of the wood and sneak up behind some high ground from where I could have a look and see what, if anything, was still there. I did exactly this only to see three white backsides drifting in the wood. They were not spooked or aware of us – they were simply going to bed, having no doubt fed most of the night on and off under a big moon. There was a doe still in the field, perfectly positioned at no more than 80 yards from us. It could all have worked like clockwork if she was the other sex. Typical! I have learnt many times not to immediately rush into plan B – at this stage it’s much better to wait a while and just take stock. The deer can reappear from cover, and there may well be other roe you have missed as your attention was fully focused on the deer you were stalking. So we waited for another 20 minutes, allowing our doe
“ There would be no worries about her hitting the deer – I just needed to find one ”
to move off after the others. Nothing else doing so we moved off, slowly working up the fence line to
don’t present a shot. Fair play to Debs – at my
drift across the wood corner and headed towards
whisper, “Just stay on him, track him and if he
a gorse and broom covered glen a few fields away.
turns then take the shot,” she remained totally
We had gone 100 yards when Oscar suddenly
focused. I could see the muzzle was steady as the
got interested again. Almost simultaneously I
buck advanced. He came forward at a slow and
caught movement in front of us in some birch
steady pace and then for whatever reason made
trees across a reed-covered field drain. I could
the grave error of turning right at 140 yards to
see by the way the deer was moving that this was
sniff at a large dock leaf. I gave the ok and the rifle
a young buck taking his chance to have a steady
cracked; he dropped to the shot with no more
mooch about as the other roe in the field had
than a brief twitch and that was it.
gone. We lost sight of him in the rushes but I was
Debs had remained calm throughout the
sure he would work clear and hopefully move
whole process. Considering we actually stalked
down toward our position. I got Debs set on the
for perhaps three field lengths, it was a cracking
quad sticks and we waited patiently.
morning. At no time were any deer, or other
Sure enough, out he came, turned right and
wildlife for that matter, aware of us. We had been
started to work down the edge of the drain
out for under two hours, seen six roe deer in total,
straight towards us. This can be problematic for
and selected one beast to cull for sound deer
two reasons: it’s difficult for the person on the
management. Now then Debs… DSC2?
rifle to stay calm when a deer is walking head on towards you, and often they come right in and
For stalking opportunities Chris can be contacted on 07710 871190 or ayrstalk.co.uk
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
41
kit OPTICS
A MASS OF GLASS
Binoculars and scopes that can capably deal with long-range acquisition and precise shots on the hill
Minox BL-HD 8x44 You’ll find deer out at all times of day and you need a binocular to match. That’s where these ultra-compact, ultra-versatile HD binos from Minox come in. The unusual 44mm objective allows ample light for dawn, dusk and flat light conditions. The glass was developed by Minox specifically for this range and gives a sharp, highcontrast image with excellent colour rendition.
Leupold VX-6HD
The BL-HDs use a poly-carbonate chassis, have an
Taking shots at the very start or end of the day? This is the scope for you. The Max Light Management
‘open bridge’ design, and are therefore light and
System built into Leupold’s latest scope means optimal performance in the first and last 15 minutes of
easy to carry for long periods without fatigue.
shootable light. Elsewhere, there’s tonnes of technology packed into this unit, including electronic reticle
Price: £470
level, CDS-ZL2 Zero Lock elevation dial, and removable throw lever. All VX-6HD scopes also come with a
Blaser Sporting 01494 481004
free custom ballistic dial.
ian@minoxgb.com
Price: £1,768 Viking Arms 01423 780810 vikingshoot.com
Hawke Endurance WA Newly released in 2018, the WA is Hawke’s wideangle addition to the Endurance line. It boasts a super-wide 24-degree field of view for easy target acquisition, coupled with four-inch eye relief.
Zeiss Victory V8
Built into a 30mm chassis, all models feature a
The Victory V8 has maximum zoom and reticle adjustment ranges, providing both versatility and
heavy-duty erector system, maximising internal
precision. Light transmission of 92 per cent, FL lenses, SCHOTT HT glass and an extremely wide-angle
stability. A glass-etched illuminated ballistic reticle
field of view give outstanding image quality. Its short, compact shape makes for perfect handling and
is available in either LR Dot configuration or a
is pleasingly ergonomic. The new ASV LongRange bullet drop compensator has significant adjustment
similarly new LRC that provides the user with aim
potential to ensure maximum range shooting. So, for hill stalks, you can’t do much better.
points to match centrefire ballistics.
Price: £1,900-£2,600
Price: £459.99
Zeiss 01223 401525 zeiss.co.uk/sportsoptics
Hawke 01349 387762 hawkeoptics.com
42
www.countrysportscotland.com
kit OPTICS
Nightforce SHV 3-12x56 By simplifying the characteristics seen in the NXS range and removing the illuminated reticle,
Leica Noctivid
Nightforce have created a top-end scope
With compact dimensions as well as a stylish design (now available in hunter-friendly green), these binos
that retails for a mid-range price. This optic
are extremely versatile – they can be lugged up the hill or used for more stationary nature observation.
retains the quality of a full scale Nightforce
The optics and internal mechanics are top-notch, as you’d expect from Leica, while the exterior is robust
scope – the same precise tolerances, fine
and resilient. Two magnifications are available – 8x and 10x – with a 42mm objective lens.
materials and reliable workmanship, but in a
Price: 8x42 £2,250, 10x42 £2,350
simplified package designed to keep the price
Leica 020 7629 1351 uk.leica-camera.com/Sport-Optics
within grasp. Constructed for superior low light performance, the new SHV features a 56mm objective, fast focus eyepiece, 30mm tube and capped adjustments. Price: £677.99 Sportsman Gun Centre 01392 354854 sportsmanguncentre.co.uk
Swarovski DS Swarovski’s revolutionary ‘smart scope’ was launched in 2017 and is finally available for UKbased hunters to get their hands on. A head-up display projects real-time data before you take the
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro
shot, and there’s even an automatic aiming point,
Do something different – go digital. The ATN X-Sight is a state-of-the-art day and night scope, and the
calculating the necessary adjustments based on
new 4K Pro model has been almost totally revamped from its predecessors. The appearance is the first
range, angle and atmospheric factors. You can
thing you’ll notice – it’s been slimmed down to more closely resemble traditional glass. And the eye relief
pair the scope with Swarovski’s smartphone app
is now far closer to what you’d get on a daytime optic, at a very manageable 90mm. Gyroscope and
to load up your ballistic data, too. If you want to
accelerometer, rangefinder, ballistic calculator and video out all make this a super-advanced day-night
conquer the hill and leave nothing to chance, this
scope. Don’t forget to obey local laws and only shoot deer within legal daytime hours.
is the scope you need.
3-14X RRP: £849.00 5-20X RRP: £949
Price: £3,230
ATN 01432 809960 atneu.com
Swarovski 01737 856812 swarovskoptik.co.uk
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
43
gamekeeping on the ground
FIGHTING FOR THE FUTURE
Tina Brough charts the efforts gamekeepers are making to counter the negative press about their jobs – in creating regional groups that showcase directly to the public what a gamekeeper’s work really entails
Keepers participate in all sorts of conservation activity – such as merlin ringing
M
Keepers are heavily involved with local businesses and charities
oorland managed by
the public that moorland managed for grouse
gamekeepers contributes
benefits a multitude of flora and fauna and is a
a morning to go shooting, I decided if I couldn’t
massively to the national
force for the good,” says Paul Wilson, headkeeper
beat him I’d have to join him. I absolutely love
economy, ensures that the
at Bransdale estate.
beating and the whole camaraderie that goes
moors stay diverse with wildlife and also
“After 45 years of waving my husband off on
Promoting the benefits of managed moorland
with it. Why didn’t I do it sooner? If only I’d known
keeps thousands of people in employment.
is one of the primary aims of the groups, however,
how much fun I would have,” says Tina Whitwell,
Mistruths and misguided information
they are also looking to dispel the misinformation
a new lady beater on the fell. Moorland groups
brandished about by the mainstream media
being publicised as they look to secure the future
are involving everyone who wants to be involved,
is the reason that the gamekeepers are
of their livelihoods and the only way of life that
and if they can get people out on the fells and
now fighting back, and this is evident by
they’ve ever known. Gamekeepers have been
enjoying it then they are being successful,
the growing presence of online regional
left wondering since the hunting ban was put in
whether this in a shoot day role or just out
moorland groups.
place, would they be next and so they are trying
walking with friends.
There are 11 separate moorland groups in
to spread the truth and combat the bad publicity
The groups are engaging and working well
operation, which in the main have been set
before it gets to the point of a ban. Topical issues
with local businesses, too – they have been
up over the past year and they can easily be
are being addressed, including rotational heather
involved in video interviews for media campaigns
found by doing a quick search on Facebook. The
burning to try and eliminate wildfires, trapping to
and donations of goods and services for charity
groups are at varying stages of development,
protect all ground nesting birds, bird ringing to
auctions that have been running. Businesses
with some already also having their own
monitor species – no subjects are off-limits, the
acknowledge the positives of the shooting estates
websites and twitter accounts.
content is there.
and how they benefit the local economy and
The moorland groups that are in operation
The groups are trying to reach an audience
tourism, which is why they are more than happy
range from the Peak District right up to the
of people who possibly have little or no idea of
Highlands of Scotland. They were created by
what grouse shooting entails and so are trying to
gamekeepers and are run by them or their
explain the real, invaluable jobs that gamekeepers
definitely the way forward for the groups and
families to promote the realities and benefits
do. The intention is to try to dispel the notion that
they are now fully embracing it to their advantage.
of their work. The public really seem to interact
the grouse shooting fraternity are rich, greedy
After all, why just engage with a couple of walkers,
with the groups and this is surely in part down to
people, who only care about red grouse and by
or a room full of people, when you can reach a
the fact the content comes straight from those
showing what gamekeepers actually do and how
massive audience of thousands online?
directly working or involved with the moors.
they work with the public then hopefully some of
“The moorland groups help to try and educate
these thoughts can be quashed.
44
www.countrysportscotland.com
to work alongside the groups. The internet, and social media specifically, is
Jimmy Brough, headkeeper at Rosedale and Westerdale estate says “The positive feedback
gamekeeping on the ground
The Facebook groups are an easy and quick way for keepers to share snaps of their dayto-day lives and conservation work, like these nesting boxes
One group of keepers chart their progress in making 20 nesting boxes to try and increase the chances of survival for barn owls
“ They were created by gamekeepers and are run by them or their families to promote the real-life happenings of their work ”
voice, while highlighting the natural, cultural and economic benefits of these world class habitats, that are protected by the shooting community.” The moorland groups have a growing presence, and are already reaching beyond people from the shooting family out to the general public.
on our Facebook page that has been generated
are passed onto the public to read and enjoy. In
They are running well, growing in stature day by
from the keepers interaction with walkers and
this modern age of smart-phones it is much easier
day, so carry on spreading the word, get behind
the distribution of business cards on the moors
to gather and distribute material than previously,
them and increase their audience. They’re on
is immensely positive and testament to all of
and this is what the gamekeepers are doing. There
Facebook, while some have websites and Twitter
their hard work.” The gamekeepers distributing
is now no need for a camera and then having to
accounts: look them up and check them out, the
the cards are not only speaking personally to the
wait ’til you get home to do something with the
gamekeepers are pleased that they have now got
walkers on the fell but the comments, thoughts
photos. There are no factitious stories – just real
somewhere to display their life and work on the
and words are then shared through the group to
happenings of the working gamekeeper doing his
moors and are immensely proud that they can
reach a much larger audience.
job, sharing his everyday experiences and giving
share it.
The ever-increasing amount of followers of the groups are there for all to see, and the comments
regular updates on what they’re working on. There is no doubt that without gamekeepers
and photographs coming in from a wide range
the moors would just not be sustainable and the
of people including walkers, wildlife enthusiasts,
wildlife and moorland would suffer immensely.
photographers and even town people who are
Moors form part of the community and a healthy
just curious, shows the groups are really gathering
moor that walkers, keepers and birdwatchers
support and gaining followers.
alike can all enjoy is the aim. If this is achieved
The Facebook posts are brimming with an
then the potential to attract more tourists to the
abundance of photos of keepers, dogs, red listed
area is a real possibility, which will in turn help
bird sightings, chicks, trapping, charity donations,
the local economy.
picturesque scenery, heather burning, ticks and
The NGO, Countryside Alliance and BASC are
Lyme disease and these are all accompanied by
large shooting organisations now backing these
an appropriate, informative read. The posts have
groups. Gareth Dockerty, BASC regional officer
primarily come from the keepers themselves
for North East, has been quoted as saying, “BASC
who send their pictures and stories across to the
are committed to supporting the amazing work
group coordinator, and then within minutes they
of groups like NYMMO, giving the grouse moors a
There’s a personal touch to the groups too – gamekeeper Michael proposed to his girlfriend in the back of the beaters’ truck and she said “Yes”
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
45
GAME walked up
WALKING THE WALK Scotland’s premier shotgun sport doesn’t have to be bank-breaking, as the Shooting Show team discovered on a day’s walked-up grouse followed by a duck flight in Glen Etive
T
he Shooting Show filming team’s
numbers driven shoot. But if you work hard, you
shot stags across the river. No stags today, but it
brief is to capture the very
can take a couple off the ground using a walked-
would be carrying us instead! “The good news is, if
best of shooting sport in the
up formation over retrievers. And even if you get
the boards fall through, there’s a deep pool in the
UK. Right, so that means the
nothing, well, this is wild country and just being
river below to break your fall,” said the director,
here is reward enough.
Pete – always the voice of optimism.
‘premier league’ stuff every week, right? Driven grouse on the moors, 14-point stags,
But first, we had to get there. Mark had clearly
One by one we pulled ourselves across, praying
being flown in by helicopter, four-course
taken the ‘no-holds-barred Highland experience’
the box would hold our weight, thankful to get to
meal afterwards…
part of the brief to heart, and dropped us off
the other side. And a few hairy moments aside, we
some way short of the moor, a river crossing
made it – of course, we had faith all along…
Well, not quite. Because the idea is to make The Shooting Show a programme for everyone, and
between us and the destination. There was no
though the super-expensive sport is surely highly
bridge, either – just an old box, operated on a
hand. Mark lined us out along a burn, which we
enjoyable (not that we’d really know, but we can
rope-and-pulley system, used for transporting
would follow until we reached the hill, returning
take a good guess), it’s possible to have a day’s sport as memorable as any of that for a fraction of the budget. If you’re prepared to put in a few
Now we could turn our attention to the job in
Boxed in? The makeshift transport system got things off to a shaky start
yards, that is. Our mission to capture a packed day of varied, challenging and rewarding – yet financially reasonable – day’s shooting brought us to Glen Etive, a left turn off the A82 shortly after you pass the ‘Welcome to the Highlands’ sign. A 30-minute trek down a single-track road later, we arrived at Dalness Estate, a location that has provided the base for many a Shooting Show episode over the years – a true sportsman’s paradise. Estate stalker Mark Shone had a two-parter in store for us, starting with walked-up grouse and ending with an evening’s duck flight. On Dalness, the heather is sparse and the grouse few and far between. It’s no place for a big-
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
47
GAME walked up
James – the luckiest gun from earlier. Could we possibly see a repeat performance? It didn’t take long before the challenges facing us became obvious. First, the midges – though it was late September, there hadn’t been a frost yet in this part of Scotland, and especially around water at this time of day, they were noticeably active. Judicious use of face masks stopped us being eaten alive. The second problem was that the ducks, though audible, didn’t seem to want to come into the pond. Clearly something was making them wary. A few under-the-breath curses were uttered at the cameraman, who had switched to IR mode James swings through as a pair of grouse flush in front
owing to the failing light – was the infrared scaring them off? Stuart was canny, though, and kept the IR light concealed until the crucial seconds.
A solitary brace gave the dogs some work on the moor
Finally, a chance presented itself and Pete was the one who got it, bringing down a mallard drake with a straightforward shot overhead. Still the birds kept appearing overhead – more and more, in groups of five then ten – but they just didn’t want to land. They stacked up as if in a holding pattern, and the guns kept their powder dry for fear of scaring off the lot, but it was to no avail. Still, a small reward is not to be sniffed at. The Highlands do not give away their bounties easily, and if you want to guarantee a close-up duck, go to the park and throw some bread in the pond. This is real sport, overseen by a true maestro in Mark Shone, all enjoyable and all without needing a second mortgage. And caught on camera, too.
“ Walked-up days aren’t known for producing big bags, but the experience is second to none ” in a big loop before we once again braved the
Part two
river crossing on the way home. As we left the
The grouse shoot may have been finished, but
river behind, we gained a little altitude and were
there was still something in store for us that
rewarded with sweeping views across the glen
day. After an early meal, we headed out again to
and over to the main road. No grouse to be
try our luck at the ducks, shooting over a pond
seen, though. Walked-up days aren’t known for
not 10 minutes’ walk from the lodge. Mark got
producing big bags, but the experience is second
the guns into position just as night began to fall.
to none.
Cameraman Stuart holed up in the hide with
The first pair flushed past James Folkard and his waiting barrels. Shouldering his Browning gun, he missed with the first barrel but, at the second time of asking, connected with a successful shot. The dogs sprang into action for the retrieve, and then it was back to working the ground, watching our step and keeping an eye on the clumps of heather. One more would fill the bag as a solitary brace was our day’s reward. A tough day – but an enjoyable one, and this was never a numbers game. “We all appreciated the sport,” said Mark. “We’re getting well into September and at this time of year the birds get a bit jumpier – they get up quite a way off in front. At least we got something!”
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What more could you ask for?
See the team in action on the 2 November 2015 episode of The Shooting Show. You can watch it at: www.theshootingshow.tv Shaun Carr protected against the dreaded midges in his hide
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s far as shooting optics go, we’ve always thought day and night exist in two separate camps. Over here, your traditional riflescopes for daytime… and over there, your techylooking night vision units. And never shall they meet. Right? Not any more. Technology is advancing rapidly and threatens to make that distinction look severely out-of-date. At the forefront of that advancement is the X Sight 4K Pro, the latest generation of
glass than any other digital unit out there. New for this generation of X Sight is the 90mm eye relief – something you’ll notice instantly when viewing through the unit. It’s comfortable, with a clear, undistorted picture. The sensor itself captures images at the 4K resolution the name suggests. The result is a sight picture that’s bright and sharp – and that carries through to night vision mode, where you get an enhanced NV sight picture even in total darkness. And when sighting through the unit,
“ You’ll be more confident taking shots at day or night, knowing they’ll find their mark ” ‘smart scope’ from ATN. There’s so much packed into this scope that it’s tough to describe it all, but suffice it to say that it’s nothing that has come before. You’ll notice from the first glance that the look has been refined – digital scopes are often bulky units but the slim profile of the 4K is more reminiscent of a traditional riflescope. It’s not just a visual overhaul, though – it behaves more like
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you get a lot more than just a picture. The built-in atmospheric indicators and gyroscope give you real-time readings on bearing, angle of shot and wind direction and distance – plus, the internal rangefinder lets you ping your target and quickly displays the result. More than that, the scope can actually adjust the point of impact thanks to its ballistic calculator – just take two readings of your target and
the scope does the rest. The result is you’ll be more confident taking shots at day or night, knowing they’ll find their mark. Video out functionality is built in, and the X Sight 4K can handle two video streams at once – recording to an SD unit and streaming to a connected device. So you can record your shooting exploits for posterity and let your buddies watch them in real time – all without interrupting the unit’s core functionality. Worried about missing a shot? Turn on the Recoil Activated Video function and the X Sight will take care of pressing the record button. Built of aluminium alloy with impactresistant electronics, the X Sight 4K can handle anything you throw at it, and it’ll last longer on one charge of its li-ion battery, too.. This isn’t a night vision scope, or a riflescope as we think of them – it’s a big step forward in smart scope technology and possibly a revolution. We’ve had an early prototype out to test and we can see why there’s been so much hype about this unit – if you want to be one of the first in the UK to get your hands on one, register your interest now at www.atneu.com.
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Shoot IN SCOTLAND
51
Wildfowling New experience
First steps on the foreshore Byron Pace had tried more or less every form of shooting – except wildfowling. Last year, finally, that changed
A
part from a
skills were continually honed in my pursuit of
spattering of time
wild browns.
away with work and travel, for the
That is what adolescent years are for – in
However, there were two gaping omissions to my schooling in country pursuits at home. The first was fox hunting, which I did eventually
my view, anyway. Much of my age group were
address but is not something I have much to
best part of the last 25 years, I have called
beginning to party, drink and chase girls. All I
do with aside from days with the hounds on
the Angus Glens home. This has afforded me
wanted to do was go fishing and hunt.
local estates. The second was wildfowling, and
a plethora of opportunities when it comes to
I was fortunate to have a fairly rounded
knowing what I know now, I have no idea what
countryside pursuits. Think of any country
experience, rising through the ranks from
sport, and it was on the doorstep. Most of
shooting and hunting with airguns to shotguns,
There is no excuse or real reason for why I
my early years were spent traipsing the
rimfire and finally fullbore. I started beating on
didn’t take up wildfowling earlier. I lived a stone’s
riverbanks on the North Esk system, winkling
pheasant and grouse days before moving on
throw from some of the best goose shooting
out the odd trout before falling for the
to loading for clients and then running my own
in the country, with easy and affordable access
addiction of chasing Atlantic salmon. To me,
small shoot, including rearing and releasing
to the foreshore only minutes from the family
the method didn’t matter as long as it was
birds from eggs to poults. I would soon venture
home. If I had to think about it, I’d say it’s just
legal. My only wish was to pit my wits against
further afield, with my desire to hunt taking me to
something I was never introduced to. I didn’t
these beautiful silver angels of the sea. I
distant corners of the globe; from capercaillie to
know anyone who shot the foreshore, and it
would become adept at trotting worms in the
Himalayan tahr, buffalo to ptarmigan, a thirst for
wasn’t something my dad had done beyond
low waters of summer, while my fly fishing
adventure never stopped.
the odd day accompanying a friend. I had read
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took me so long.
Wildfowling New experience
the articles and seen the pictures, but it hadn’t grabbed me the way other forms of hunting became an obsession. I was well accustomed to
Setting up by torchlight is part and parcel of the experience. It’s a different world to driven grouse!
days on the geese over decoys, being fortunate to spend time with some of Scotland’s best guides, but a world of tide times, wind direction and salt marshes was an alien environment. Yet this season, as an almost throwaway comment, my hunting and fishing buddy Edan suggested we buy a resident foreshore ticket and give it a crack. Given the limit of just 50 tickets for the year, I wasn’t all that hopeful of obtaining one, but at less than £30 for the season, I couldn’t see a reason not to apply and see what we made of the experience. Much to our surprise, we bagged two permits, and after a detailed look at the map, rules and regulations, we were free to venture out and try our luck. We are true novices in this field, and it feels so good to be at that end of the learning curve. So many questions to ask and so much to learn. The wins are so sweet, and the failures, of which there are many, still leave me buzzing with new knowledge gleaned from observing the flight. As I write this, the last few weeks of my first season on the foreshore are counting down, and every day I eagerly seek an updated weather
“ There are few things that get me out of bed before 4am with a smile on my face, but the chance of a good morning on the foreshore certainly delivers that ”
forecast to plan our next trip to the coastline. It
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
53
Wildfowling New experience
Early starts, forward planning. safety and fieldcraft are prerequisites to success – but even then you might still blank
has surely become an addiction I am happy to
come together, with Edan having claimed a goose
understand how certain features provide cover in
embrace. There are few things that get me out
by himself some days before.
varying winds, and importantly tide height. This is
of bed before 4am with a smile on my face, but
The lack of birds in the bag didn’t seem to
the chance of a good morning on the foreshore
matter. Sure, we had both missed the odd shot
wind direction. Plan set, bag packed, gun ready
certainly delivers that.
that should have been good, but the magic of
and coffee waiting to go for the morning, the
watching the day crawl in from night was all the
alarm can’t go off too soon.
Given my amateur status as far as shooting on the foreshore goes, I’m not going to impart a
reward we needed.
tonne of wisdom on technique or tactics here.
We have learnt the hard way just how
the second thing we consider after locking down
I don’t think I have enjoyed such a sustained buzz for hunting for many years. It feels like being
Instead, I hope it’s possible to pass on a fraction
important the wind is to get birds over your
a kid again, desperate for the next opportunity
of the appreciation I have now for this most
head, so planning begins by looking at the long-
to go lamping or shooting rabbits on the farm.
wonderful, spectacular environment in which we
range forecast as to potential options. There will
It really encapsulates what hunting is for me.
are lucky enough to hunt. It’s affordable shooting
always be a preferred direction depending on the
Pursuing wild game in a tough conditions where
for everyone, all around the country. This is our
location you hunt, but for us any wind is enough
boosting your chances of success requires far
public land hunting.
reason to head out. More than anything I just
more than just good shooting.
I could tell you that we soon found success
want to be out with a chance.
and recount tales of how our carefully laid plans
Then comes the planning as to where we
The foreshore is such a rich environment that rarely a moment passes without something
delivered a regular, fruitful bag, but that would
should situate ourselves. In the initial outings it
walking, flying or crawling within view. You are
be a bit more than stretching the truth. For me, it
was as a good as a guess, barring a little recon
bound to see a species that can’t be identified
wasn’t until the sixth outing that things started to
in the days before. Soon, however, you begin to
at some point, and it certainly made me brush
The rewards in terms of bags are small – but in terms of experiences they are huge
up on my bird identification, both of the species we can hunt and of those we can’t. This can be a daunting aspect for the would-be foreshore hunter, fearful of shooting the wrong species, but it is a skill you can easily build on. Start with what you know. If you can only confidently I.D. pinkfoots and mallards, that is all you shoot at until you can add another species to the list of positive targets. A pair of binos can help in this endeavour, and even now we find ourselves checking up on small waders and birds that we are curious to correctly attribute. As if hunting on the foreshore needed any more reasons to make it worthy of consideration, the spoils of a successful day take some beating when it comes to culinary delights. For me, a brace of teal roasted in the oven with an array of vegetables cooked in their fat is about as good as it gets. So don’t wait as long as I did. Find out where your local foreshore access is, and get out this season. You won’t regret it.
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WILDFOWLING orkney
HIGH FLYERS IN HIGH WINDS Stuart Wilson braves wind, rain and waist-deep water to capture a week’s Orkney wildfowling on camera
W
ildfowling
recce. Most geese on the islands at the moment
few trees, just a few post-and-wire fences with
in the very
were effectively resident fowl, coupled with the
intermittent climbing weeds providing some
north of the
distinct lack of wind, so we were likely to be
natural cover. The lack of wind allows the geese
British Isles
presented with clued-up geese that would fly
to circle and scrutinise areas they may have fed
doesn’t come much better than a week-long
high, and circle any potential feeding area before
on the previous day, anything that looks out of
session in the Orkneys. A long drive followed
committing to land. But we were here and you are
place will, at best, lead to a tentative approach. At
by a reasonably smooth ferry crossing
very unlikely to shoot any geese from the comfort
worst it will see the pink foot’s shrill alarm call fade
saw our team of six guns settled into our
of an armchair – more is the pity!
into the distance, as if to say, ‘You must be joking,
accommodation – but I wasn’t one of the six.
We toured the main island and saw plenty of
My role in the week’s proceedings would be
geese and a few seals, some stunning crystal blue
to capture the events on film. I had heard
clear sea, with barely a ripple – it painted a very
First morning
stories of the weather Orkney may throw at
misleading picture of a typical Orkney day. It’s a
Arriving under the cover of darkness, the lay-
us, and really wasn’t relishing the thought
beautiful location that is surely a photographer’s
down blinds were dressed into the straw rows,
of destroying my cameras in extreme wet or
dream, with the ability to throw some serious
all but invisible, laid on a gentle slope facing the
cold. This kind of weather always presents a
weather conditions at you. Bring on the wind!
direction of approach for any geese that may
challenge: firstly making sure you gear doesn’t
After an hour or so driving round and glassing
show, with Ray tucked a little further up the slope
fail temporarily or even permanently but also
a few likely spots, we settled a distance away
behind the guns to call and co-ordinate the guns
because recording clean video footage and
from field of barley that had been combined
for best effect.
audio would be more difficult than normal.
late, leaving some spilt grain on the field, and
We were based on the main island for the
more importantly rows of fresh straw, which
honking in the distance. As the light started to lift,
week, near Kirkwall. Our guide, Magnus, and
would allow our party to get bedded into some
we waited for the first silhouettes to appear. The
Ray Waters picked us up at first light on Sunday
lay-down hunting blinds. The cover we are used
wind still wasn’t blowing as much as we would
morning so we could join him on a pre-shoot
to further south is all but absent on Orkney: very
like, and as the sun broke the horizon in front of
guys – really?’
The wait is exciting. You can hear geese
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
57
WILDFOWLING orkney
us, the sea had barely a ripple, but the first small skein of geese were heading our way – very high but coming all the same, honking and calling as they flew our way. Ray, in the darkness, had set a dozen or so decoys no more than 10 yards below the guns, and he started calling to imitate a group of feeding geese. Realistic decoys and good calling would hopefully encourage some geese to come and feed in this field again. Skein after skein came over and circled, all far too high. Sitting tight in our blinds, six armed with shotguns, one armed with two cameras, our patience eventually paid off. A group of 30-40 geese, a mix of pinkfoots and greylags, circled and got lower each time until Ray gave the shout, “Go on then!” A barrage of well-placed shots saw four birds fall from the sky. This gave a much-needed lift to the morning. Two more geese were taken before Ray called time on this first session. Not a huge bag, but success in difficult conditions, and a hearty breakfast always follows the morning flight. Blinds and decoys gathered up and quad trailered from the field, along with the six bagged geese, Ray said his goodbye, letting us know he’d had a call about a promising area on one of the farms they look after. Hope is, after all, what drives most hunters to venture out.
Evening flight Hilltop ponds were the target for our evening sessions, with duck and geese showing in smaller numbers but more frequently. The guiding team did a superb job of putting the guns into the best places. A significant amount of work goes into wildfowl guiding: scouting locations, feeding some
“ After a heavy night of rain the water was gently lapping an inch or so below the very top of his quite tall wellies ”
spots to concentrate the birds into preferred ponds, and maintaining good relationships with the local farmers. With the guns split into two teams, three guns with each guide, this evening the wind had picked up a little. More wind means lower birds that commit to coming in better, and disguise the sound of shotguns banging away, meaning less disturbance for any ducks or geese that may be on their way to our chosen pond. The first to show as the light started to fade were a small group of mallard. Two were dropped, and as one gun went to retrieve one of the fallen birds, Ray shouted “Get down!” as a skein of three geese folded straight into the pond. I had followed the gun to film the retrieve, so found myself hiding in the heather as the geese came into range. One more goose found its way into our bag. All three guns and Ray were now sheltered up against the post and wire fence, with the sea visible through the hills and the pond 30 yards in front. The fading light saw teal and wigeon appear from nowhere, with another four bagged with some solid shooting of silhouettes against the last
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“The water’s just a foot deep…” or maybe a tad higher!
WILDFOWLING orkney
Jason Doyle takes aim as Stuart keeps his camera concealed and at the ready
shots dropping a goose straight into the ditch
a brace, at which point the remaining geese
water, which, by its flow, delivered the goose to
wheeled right, gaining altitude as fast as they
the gun.
could. At the point when the geese were over the
With our first goose stashed on the bank,
head of the gun I was filming, he shot and the
covered with grass to hide it from the scrutinising
goose fell, stone dead in the air, plummeting to
pinkfoots above us, that kept gliding over with
the ground from over 70 yards. Fortunately we
their heads to one side peeping down at the
were 20 yards from its impact on the heather. Of
damp shapes in the ditch, but the cover was
all the shotgun shots I have witnessed, filmed or
good and more smaller groups were starting to
otherwise, some just stick with you – this is one of
show. Ray’s diligent calling managed to get several
those, something I will remember for a long time.
skeins over the guns, the slight wind meant the
As the evening went on, more geese came in
birds were high, but five 12-bores and 10-bore,
and from each skein some geese were bagged,
saw a respectable bag of seven geese under the
and as the light faded, mallard, wigeon and teal
conditions. Home for breakfast and the daily
blazed into the pond, with the guns bagging
chore of drying everything from clothing and
several before Ray called time on the last evening.
shotguns to gunslips and wellies.
When darkness descends in Orkney with little moon and a good covering of cloud, it is black and
Epic evening
wild. But it is energising being here – the shooting
The final evening flight, with the four guns, will
is excellent, and even better if there is a stronger
stick in my mind, with a pond and marshy boggy
wind. When the ‘visiting’ geese arrive, the guns will
area behind us, we faced out over the brow of
stop shooting before the geese stop coming.
a heather covered hill. Tucked into the heather
A hearty thank you from me to the guides, and
ourselves, the first geese showed pretty quickly –
especially to the guns for making it possible for
around a dozen. They just kept coming in, quite
me to join them and film in a truly wild and special
low. They met the left-hand guns first, who took
place to visit.
light in the sky. We were on last knockings just as the faint honking of approaching geese could be heard coming from the seaward side, coming low and straight. Another two were added to the bag, which finished the session in style.
The ditch
The shoot was also a valuable training session for Ray’s dog
Two of our morning sessions saw the guns lined out in a drainage ditch. Ray had scouted the night before and assured us the water depth was around a foot. The first gun climbed the fence and slipped gently down the grassy bank into the ‘footdeep’ water, quickly finding out that after a heavy night of rain the water was gently lapping an inch or so below the very top of his quite tall wellies. The realisation soon hit the back-side guns, with somewhat shorter wellies, that a damp morning was on the cards. Ray was setting the decoys in the stubble field we had just walked down, and was unaware of the rising damp. The draw of goose shooting had helped all the guns splash into their watery positions, wellies full for the most part, and even the taller wellies would soon be filled as leaning and crouching to hide from overhead geese was necessary. A huge number of geese lifted off and just kept flying, but soon some smaller skeins were having a good look at our decoys, with the first volley of
Bag numbers aren’t huge but every one is hard won
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
59
kit clothing
Wear it out!
Tough, technical clothing and footwear to withstand the most gruelling hill stalks
Hawker Shell Jacket and Trousers This jacket and trouser combo made from a technical stretchable waterproof is ideal
Deerhunter Predator Jacket
for people who enjoy active stalking in all environments. The comfortable jacket and
This offering from Deerhunter is waterproof – or
trousers are wind and waterproof and highly
99.9 per cent waterproof at least since it’s not
RAM Light Sportif jacket
breathable. The cleverly designed fabric manages
seam-sealed – windproof and breathable, it
Waterproof, windproof and breathable thanks
moisture, helping to regulate your temperature
sports a Teflon coating that repels dirt and water
to Blaser’s Rambrane technology, this jacket is
during intense activity. The three-layer fabric
as well as making the surface very smooth. The
set to become a common sight on shoots and
has honeycomb backing allowing total freedom
80 IN-EQ camouflage blends well, and would
estates in Scotland. Features include a stand-up
of movement for athletic mobility. To ensure
work just as well in a hide while pigeon shooting
collar with detachable hood, two-way YKK zip,
complete protection in all weather conditions, the
as it would out in the field when deer stalking.
two pockets with zips, two bellows pockets with
Hawker Shell clothing has a noiseless waterproof
The pockets offer good storage for the hunter,
concealed pockets behind, a chest pocket, two
membrane, fitted hood, and YKK zips to prevent
and the cut of the jacket lends itself to rifle and
inner document pockets, a mobile phone pocket
water getting in.
shotgun shooting alike.
and pen pocket, and a poacher pocket.
Price: Jacket from £149.99,
Price: £125.99
Price: £435
trousers from £109.99
Deerhunter 07766 323683
Blaser Sporting 01483 917412
Seeland 07887 997788
deerhunter.eu
www.blaser-sporting.com
www.seeland.com
Ridgeline Camlite Winter footwear and summer footwear can often be completely opposed, with high-ankled, grippy boots a must for bad weather, and even trainers being just about acceptable in the summer. But is there such a thing as all-year-round footwear? Check out the Camlite Boots from Ridgeline, with a more athletic sole, which will help you to approach quarry with more silence and precision. Bad foot placement can mean noise – and that can mean runaway quarry – so being able to feel what’s beneath your feet is a big plus when hunting. Plus, they offer protection from the elements, and concealment. Price: £120 Highland Outdoors 0845 099 0252 highlandoutdoors.co.uk
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kit clothing
Finnlight Smock Part of Beretta’s new clothing collection, the Finnlight smock is made with deer stalking in mind. A slightly longer length, one-piece garment, it offers increased waterproof protection – perfect for dealing with the British weather. The integral hood is held in place by an internal rim, ensuring clear vision at all times, even as you move your head around. Meanwhile, specially designed articulated shoulders provide improved movement
palearctic 365 jacket
when shooting. Pockets for
Coming to you from the makers of the Merkel
binoculars and handwarmers
RX Helix rifle is the new range of Merkel Gear
give you the storage you ned.
clothing, including this abrasion-resistant, light
Price: £199.95
and windproof jacket. Built to protect the wearer
GMK 01489 579999 gmk.co.uk
from damp and creeping cold, it’s also got a waffle fleece backing on the inside, which keeps your away from the body.
Aigle Parcours 2 Outlast
Price: £270.43
The Aigle Parcours 2 Outlast Boot
VIking Arms 01423 780810
offers regulation of the temperature of
vikingshoot.com
your feet with their Outlast linings. The
temperature regulated by directing excess heat
Outlast materials absorb body heat and releases it when you need it most. The boot is ideal for stationary hunting in cool weather. With tri-density rubber soles, the boots offer great comfort and adjustable tabs and gussets ensure these wellies fit snugly to your leg. £199.99 Aigle aigle.com/uk 020 7660 1576
Game Keeper jacket Designed to be highly functional, the Game Keeper jacket by ShooterKing is constructed from 100 per cent Cordura Nylon and has a Shoottex membrane, making it totally windproof and
Grampian Hooded Smock
waterproof. Storage options
Seen here in the Grampian Tweed pattern,
include two oversized front cargo
Nomad’s time-proven hooded smock is
pockets, interior zipped pocket,
functionally designed for stalking, made from a
two zipped side pockets and one
silent, stretchable, waterproof and breathable
zipped pocket beneath the baffle,
fabric. It’s long-lasting, too – Nomad say they
all of which keeps the design simple
have re-taped some 15-year-old smocks that are
and straightforward while offering
still in perfect condition. You get all the practical
all the storage you need. Plus, the
accoutrements you need, too, including a full
design features a detachable and
folding hood, an extended front zip, and pockets
adjustable peaked hood, adjustable
for binoculars, extra magazines, keys, and so on.
waist and cuffs, and YKK double
Price: £430 (Grampian/Argyll tweed), £340
slider zipper with baffle.
(olive/khaki)
Price: £229.95
Nomad UK 07736 255100
Thomas Jacks 01789 264100
www.nomaduk.biz
www.thomasjacks.co.uk
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
61
CLAYS NATIONAL SHOOTING CENTRE
NSC SCOTLAND In the middle of Scotland lies a shooting ground that offers just about everything you can think of. We visit Scotland’s National Shooting Centre
E
ngland has Bisley; Scotland has
you’d be surprised to find that approaching
the National Shooting Centre
the ground is more like driving into the hills of
in Jawcraig, not far from Falkirk
Perthshire. With views over the Campsie Fells
in Scotland’s central belt. But
and Highlands in the distance, the shooting
while Bisley has a focus on long-range
school sits in 1500 acres of farmland and is
rifle shooting, Scotland’s NSC is very much
surrounded by heather.
focused on clays, offering eight different
Set amid this backdrop, the facilities are
disciplines, pro tuition, group sessions,
state of the art. The ground underwent a
workshops and more.
major refurbishment in 2016, including new
Accessible to a huge proportion of Scotland’s
If you’re looking for the best tuition, the National Shooting Centre has you covered
traps, electronics and pathways. Now, the list
population – it’s just under an hour from
of disciplines offered is extensive. Olympic
Edinburgh and 40 minutes from Glasgow – the
Trap, Olympic Skeet, ABT, DTL, National Skeet,
National Shooting Centre has been in operation
Sportrap, Sporting and Fitasc – Stewart and
since 1992 (hence its abbreviated name
his team can put on just about anything.
NSC92) since it opened as part of an open
The ground has 10 combined Skeet and DTL
cast coal restoration project. It’s been a family
Layouts, and three combined OSK and OTR
business ever since, staying in the possession
layouts. There are also more than 20 Sporting
of the McCaig family, led by managing director,
stands including a high tower and a Sportrap
something different, allowing family or work
Andrew McCaig. Also a key figure is Stewart
layout. That adds up to a staggering 130 traps
groups to shoot all at once and maybe give
Cumming, the general manager, who shoots
being used across the ground.
some newcomers their first taste of shooting.
Fitasc for Scotland. He came eighth at the Fitasc
Tuition is a big feature of the ground’s
The clubhouse has also been refurbished
European Championships in 2018, and shot
offering, with lessons provided for all levels
and includes a shop stocked with shooting
Double Trap at two successive Commonwealth
from beginners to professional shooters via
accessories, guns and cartridges, with Hull,
Games in Manchester and Melbourne.
the coaching team lead by Stewart Cumming.
Beretta, Browning and other major brands
Individual lessons from Stewart start from
represented. And there’s also a café providing
£65 per lesson. A ‘group shots’ area provides
the usual essentials and hot food on weekends.
So what is the ground like today? Given that it’s so close to both Edinburgh and Glasgow,
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
63
CLAYS NATIONAL SHOOTING CENTRE
Whatever discipline you’re in the mood to shoot, you can probably find it at the NSC
NSC92 is worth a visit any time, but make sure you come back for the competitions. The ground has hosted a number of notable events over the past three years, including the DTL Home International, British Championships and European Championships, OTR Home International, OSK Home International and a variety of Scottish Championships – plus local events including Sportrap Summer Series, Sporting Winter Series and the ALPA Grand Prix. Comprehensive, scenic and surprisingly accessible, Scotland’s National Shooting Centre shouldn’t just be for Scottish shooters – it’s a must-visit wherever you are from. A visit here is just as essential as any trip to the hill or the foreshore while on a Scottish shooting foray.
contact details National Shooting Centre, Scotland Wester Jawcraig Falkirk FK1 3AL 01324 851 672 www.nsc92.com Open: Tuesday to Sunday 10am until 5pm. Late night on a Thursday until 8pm from April until October.
64
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While England’s National Shooting Centre is dominated by rifle shooting, Scotland’s NSC is a clay-buster’s paradise
kit calibre
Calibre choices There is a dizzying array of calibres available for the deer stalker to choose from – so Will O’Meara suggests making your selection based on your preferred hunting style
L
et’s take a look at
When objectively looking at calibre choice I like
calibres, specifically
to initially look at two factors; terminal ballistic
for hunting the deer
performance, and “shootability” (in basic terms,
you’ll find in Scotland,
as felt recoil goes up, shootability goes down).
such as sika, fallow and red. The first thing to realise is we all have an
The first step is to match your calibre to your hunting style and know your limits
With the availability and accuracy of modern rangefinders I think there is less importance
emotional investment in the calibre we own: we
attached to how flat the trajectory of a bullet
made a decision to buy that calibre, it is what we
is. For hunting calibres I believe that terminal
use and we want it to be great. We must put aside
performance is more important than the
sayings such as “it’s not the calibre – it’s where you
projectile’s ability to cheat the wind. I invest more
put the bullet”, because such sayings fail to take
time in practicing my wind calls and knowing my
into consideration what happens when things go
limits when it comes to wind.
wrong. I don’t intend this to be a lecture on the
To start, then, let’s compare some basic
“best” calibre, because each calibre has its place
data; The point of the comparison overleaf is
and what suits my needs may not suit yours. What
to illustrate the small difference between these
I would like to explore is the merits of some larger
calibres and bullets when it comes to windage.
chamberings and their suitability for hunting.
The tables also show that there is a significant
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
67
kit calibre
Comparison of .270 Win factory offerings Projectile
Wind Drift in 5MPH full value wind
Distance where energy drops below 1,300ft-lbs
110 V- Max
6.75 inches @ 400 Yards
350 Yards
130 SST SuperP
5.28 inches @ 400 Yards
525 Yards
150 SST
6.00 inches @ 400 Yards
450 Yards
Comparison of .30-06 factory offerings Projectile
Wind Drift in 5MPH full value wind
Distance where energy drops below 1,300ft-lbs
150 Ballistic Tip
6.45 inches @ 400 Yards
475 Yards
165 SST SuperP
6.08 inches @ 400 Yards
550 Yards
180 Arrowhead
5.94 inches @ 400 Yards
550 Yards
Comparison of 7mm Rem Mag factory offerings Projectile
Wind Drift in 5MPH full value wind
Distance where energy drops below 1,300ft-lbs
150 Arrowhead
5.28 inches @ 400 Yards
575 Yards
175 Fusion
5.46 inches @ 400 Yards
600 Yards
162 SST SuperP
4.65 inches @ 400 Yards
725 Yards
difference in delivered energy, which is an
that expands well and has good penetration
wind is not an issue, and it is an effective means
important aspect of terminal ballistics.
will be able to effectively dispatch the largest of
of dispatching an animal, but again it should
stags. Some will say that a small calibre can be
be reserved for situations that demand it and
performance is how the bullet performs when it
used effectively on deer if you are head or neck
facilitate good accuracy. Always be aware that
strikes its target, and this is a combination of the
shooting – this is true to a point, but I have seen it
frontal headshots at close range can go wrong in a
calibre, the projectile, and the make-up of the
go wrong as well, especially with neck shots. The
hurry, even with .30 cal bullets. What can happen
animal you are shooting and where you shoot
head is often a larger target than the neck when
quite easily is a shot that strikes the lower jaw,
Let’s explore terminal ballistics. Terminal
it. A bullet that is very good for “ringing steel” on Credit: Jason Doyle
the range may not be the most effective hunting calibre. The same bullet will have a different effect on the same animal at the same range, depending on where you place the shot. Factors such as striking bone and the position of the animal will have an effect on the size of the wound channel and how that performs in terms of killing the animal. There are three main ways that a bullet effectively kills game: the first is what we often refer to as a “shot to the vitals”. This is considered best practice and the objective is to cause enough damage so as to stop the functioning of the heart or lungs. The more damage we can inflict on the heart or lungs, then the quicker they will fail to work. The second is a spinal shot; the target here is quite small as it will only be effective if the spinal cord itself is damaged, and for that reason accuracy is a primary requirement, as is a trained dog in order to follow up since these shots often merely paralyse the deer. A projectile
68
A bullet’s performance on the range and on live quarry can differ significantly, and what is best for one may not be best for the other
www.countrysportscotland.com
kit calibre
Credit: Jason Doyle
The more ‘volatile’ projectiles can work well on deer in the hunting conditions found in the UK and Ireland
“ For hunting calibres I believe that terminal performance is more important than the projectile’s ability to cheat the wind ”
shoot and very effective on deer, especially in woodland stalking scenarios. What I am looking for is that calibre that strikes the perfect balance between shootability and terminal performance, and for that reason I now favour calibres from .270 up. I have been fortunate enough to witness
detonates and fails to penetrate the neck – for
have seen a rise in popularity in the 6.5 calibres
a very large number of animal reactions to
this reason it is always important to know how
recently, which seems to be driven by their mild
different calibres. I think the comparison of three
low your bullet will strike at ranges from 20 yards
recoil, high BCs and inherent accuracy. From a
in particular might be useful; the .270 Win, the
to 100 yards. What all of this tells us is that shot
hunting perspective there are some who hold the
.30-06, and the .300WSM. The .270 Win, in my
placement is paramount, but when things go
experienced opinion that these long, thin bullets
opinion, is the starting point for mountain hunting.
wrong the larger calibres with a bullet matched to
perform like a spear – this is good for when they
It maintains over 1,300ft-lbs of energy out to
the animal will be more forgiving. In an ideal world
are in flight (external ballistics) but results in poor
nearly 400 yards with a 130 grain bullet, and out
you want a bullet that transmits good energy,
performance on animals (small hole in, small
to 450 yards with a 150 grain bullet. At ranges
creates a large wound channel and a large exit
hole out). Of course, suitable bullet construction
beyond this it is likely that you will not get an exit
wound while still being easy to shoot in hunting
will help performance, as will shot placement. In
wound on deer-sized game. Have a look at the
situations. In my experience, how easy a rifle is to
general terms, however, these 6.5 calibres lack the
tables (to the left) for comparison of the energy
shoot has as much to do with the rifle design and
sectional density of the 7mm and .30 calibres, and
retention of the .270 Win, .30-06 Springfield, and
set up as it has to do with the calibre.
thus they pack less punch.
the 7mm Rem Mag.
In the modern era of our need for speed and
There is of course always going to be a place for
The .300 Win Mag and WSM also have their
super aerodynamic ballistic coefficients (BC)
the smaller “big game” calibres, and your hunting
fans. What I have experienced is that the likes of
we hear little talk of sectional density. Sectional
scenarios and recoil tolerance will dictate this
the .300 Magnums have incredible knockdown
density, in layman’s terms, is a number that
to a large degree. I think that it is fairly common
power, the effect on the animal is very visually
reflects the weight and diameter of a bullet. We
knowledge that the .243s and 6.5s are lovely to
noticeable, and in turn there is more forgiveness
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
69
kit calibre
for poorly placed shots (within reason). I shot a
In a recent article in Sporting Rifle magazine I
I need to be able to, firstly, have a range of
.300 Win Mag for some time in a cumbersome
discussed aids to reducing recoil and concluded
ammunition available that will allow me to
rifle of 20lbs. It was capable of phenomenal
that a muzzle brake is most efficient, but also the
find a bullet that performs well in my rifle and
accuracy, but I found that it “took a lot of shooting”
loudest and unsociable for your guide or hunting
is suitable for hunting; and secondly, I need
– in other words, its performance was very
buddy. I think that, if the circumstances allow,
to be able to get a sufficient quantity of that
dependent on how I set up for the shot. I also
a muzzle brake can really allow you to tip the
ammunition to facilitate practice and hunting.
found that it was very prone to torque on the
scale in favour of some of the larger calibres, an
I would really like to try the 7mm WSM since
shot, in that it would twist and often cause you to
example being a .338 Lapua Magnum that was
its theoretical performance is impressive.
lose sight of your strike – it no longer lives with me!
fitted with a very effective muzzle brake, weighed
Unfortunately, the limited range of ammunition
What I like about the 30-06 is that it has similar
20lbs and was an absolute dream to shoot. From
and its scarcity off the shelf means it’s a non-
recoil to a .270 Win, but is noticeably more
a hunting perspective it would be quite limited
starter for me. From my own perspective I
effective, even more than the data on paper
in the circumstances where you could use it and
am still looking for that calibre that will deliver
might suggest. This, I believe, is down to sectional
hauling it around would get old fairly quickly! But
maximum terminal performance, be smooth
density. I recently had an opportunity to test two
personally speaking it did demonstrate that it is
recoiling, and not exceed 11lb on the scales
Sako 85 hunting rifles, one in .270, the other in
possible to tame the largest of calibres.
(including the scope and moderator). The search
.30-06, both weighing under 10.5lb scoped and silenced and both fitted with Hausken moderators
The calibre debate for me is often limited to the theoretical due to ammunition availability.
for the ultimate calibre continues – when I find it I’ll let you know!
– the difference in recoil was not noticeable, but the effect on animals was! On the other hand, if you were to compare a .300 Win Mag and a .30-06, on paper the Win Mag would come out on top, but in practical terms I would favour the “Aught Six” any day, predominantly based on its
“ In an ideal world you want a bullet that transmits good energy, creates a large wound channel and a large exit wound ”
shootability.
: The importance of a trained dog can’t be overstated – especially when taking shots at a smaller target
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www.countrysportscotland.com
grouse walked up
A lucky escape Things can quickly go wrong when you head out on the hill – as a close encounter with an ATV taught Chris Dalton during an August stalk last year
T
he peak of the
cameraman who is also a stalker – it makes life
even when you take what you think are all the
roe rut for me in
much easier when the guy behind the lens also
necessary precautions, things do occasionally
the south-west of
knows all about trying to get a shot on a wild
go wrong, in some cases with potentially
Scotland is a bit later
animal. While the trip was a huge success from
catastrophic results.
than you get in England – generally around the
one perspective – we shot both red and roe deer
end of the first week in August. The rut of 2017
on camera – it was very nearly a disaster from
edge of the open hill, Andrea following, in humid
was a good example – we were busy from
another perspective.
conditions with a thick mist and no wind. I got
late July with the annual pilgrimage of visiting
I have never been a great advocate of the
I had spent the first morning stalking on the
into a group of reds, among which was a young
stalkers and regular syndicate guys.
health and safety red tape epidemic. In my
stag – a perfect cull animal for mid-August. Of
But then things got a bit different.
military career I saw a constant increase in
course, on the open hill, in balmy conditions in
As we approached the end of the second week
health and safety officers who seemed to revel
mid-August, the midges were taking lumps out
of the month, my attention turned towards some
in coming up with one hare-brained scheme
of us – challenging conditions to say the least.
promotional work I was doing with Eagle Review
after another and stopping anybody doing
However, I managed to get into the deer and shot
on Kinnaird Estate in central Scotland. I had two
anything half the time on the basis that it might
a young stag with all the action captured on film.
days of filming organised with a cameraman,
be dangerous. It seemed that expecting folk to
My cameraman had me posing several shots so
Andrea Cavaglià, and we had spoken a number
use common sense while going about day-to-
he could put together a piece for a documentary
of times before the trip to sort out a plan. Andrea
day tasks was a bridge too far. But I won’t rant
for the European hunting fraternity. I began to
is an Italian who comes from a hunting family
too much – I do accept that there is a need for a
understand what an actor has to go through,
and was taken up into the Alps by his father on
common-sense approach to working practices
all the while being eaten alive by those blasted
hunting trips almost as soon as he could walk.
and the need to prevent injury. It’s the sensible
midges – I bet Harrison Ford would not take kindly
It’s always good to work with a professional
bit that sometimes gets lost in translation. But
to the wee tartan biters.
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Stalking Injury
The Scottish terrain proves dangerous even for experienced ATV driver Chris
I was delighted when we were finally finished, and I took the short walk down to HQ to fetch the ATV to recover kit, cameraman and stag, and work out a way down the hill for breakfast. It was an easy drive up to where the stag was, and I recovered it, Andrea and his camera, along with my stalking kit. He sat side-saddle on the machine and I started to retrace the route along the side of the hill back to the track. Easy, or so it should have been. I have got my NPTC qualification in ATV driving, and knew what I was doing – load balanced, bike not overloaded and safe route sorted. Black mark for not wearing a helmet, though. All was well until
The stag is on the ground but the difficulty has only just begun…
on a gentle slope the front-right wheel ran on to a rock not seen under the moss, while the front-left wheel sank into same moss, resulting in the bike sinking left and then tipping over. What happened next seemed to be in slow motion. The equipment and Andrea all went left
“ My eyes look like I had just got in from an allnight drinking session. I never touched a drop – that was just pain ”
and clear, while I ended up with a bump on the floor and looked up to see a 1,000cc six-wheel machine – and stag – heading in my direction. The
guys and get some breakfast. As we had been up
session. I never touched a drop – that was just
machine hit me hard across the hips, engine block
since very early and it was now late morning, we
pain. It does make you think, though, and I have
first, and I gained a new appreciation for just how
had finished for a while – this allowed me to get
tried to reassess how I do things. Had I been alone
heavy they are. I also realised that I was totally
back to the hotel, cleaned up, showered and take
on the hill when that happened, there is no way
pinned down.
some time to regroup. I was still feeling rather
I could have got out from under that bike – how
uncomfortable – that’s an understatement.
long would it have been before someone came
A panicky cameraman, having established I was still alive, tried to lift the machine – no chance.
We finished filming, and I then guided another
looking, and where would they look?
Eventually, after much pulling and shoving and by
client for few days, returning to Garryloop five
It makes you think that maybe you do need
working together, we managed to push it up high
days later. I had not mentioned my incident to
to have a close look at how you are operating –
enough for me to wriggle out. I stood up and tried
Anne, who was none the wiser – until I got into the
you might not be as lucky as I was. Additionally,
to take stock of whether all my body parts were in
shower, that is, revealing hips black with bruising
I am convinced the Apex Predator sack, packed
working order. Though I knew something wasn’t
and a haematoma that made me look pregnant
with my kit, saved me a broken pelvis. I was
right with me, I quickly became more concerned
on my right-hand side along with three broken
clearly very lucky.
with whether I had damaged my bike – I’d paid a
ribs. She wasn’t pleased.
lot of money for it! We managed to get it back over
Oh, and the bike was fine. Not a scratch.
Watching some of the subsequent film clips
the right way up and it started; we reloaded it and
with close-up shots of me on the rifle, my eyes
For stalking opportunities Chris can be contacted
I drove back down to HQ to meet the rest of the
look like I had just got in from an all-night drinking
on 07710 871190 or at www.ayrstalk.co.uk
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
73
grouse walked up
Credit: Jeff J Mitchell
Conquer the hill From planning all the way through to extraction, stalking on the hill in winter is a constant challenge. Dominic Griffith shows you how to overcome it
O
ne of the most
invariably does significantly worse than the
start of the season in late October, when late-born
significant
other two, or where a very late birth means
calves are so easily identifiable.
differences
that a kid may enter the winter inadequately
between the
prepared. Red hinds, of course, give birth a
to the plan. As the pressure of a large cull and
approach to lowland does and upland hinds
month or more later than roe, while the onset
short days becomes increasingly significant, and
is the important challenge of identifying weak
of winter starts a month or so earlier. The
having made a belly approach through rank
calves. Those of us in the south concerned
occurrence of a late-born red calf, therefore,
heather of perhaps 100 metres in freezing rain,
principally with roe will rarely see a poor
takes on much greater significance.
the inclination is to select the first shootable
kid. This is due to the fact that the relatively
It is certainly the case that within any planned
The challenge of hind stalking is in sticking
hind or calf within the group that is immediately
temperate weather has almost always
hind cull, the stalker will be actively seeking
visible. In this way, and quite by chance, a weak
improved sufficiently by the time the kids
out and selecting those weak calves which will
calf might survive the winter much longer than
have dropped, and there is rarely any reason
otherwise not make it through late winter and
you intend. Indeed, it is often the case that such a
why a doe cannot make enough milk to
early spring – the largest impact of mortality
calf, even one well-known to you, keeps avoiding
ensure her kid or kids’ rapid development.
frequently not actually occurring in the highlands
the cull despite your best efforts. Even in parks
The obvious exception to this is where a roe
until early spring. Nevertheless, early identification
this happens – I well remember an old hind in my
doe gives birth to triplets, one of those triplets
of such calves remains a priority right from the
own enclosure who each year managed to avoid
74
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Deer management Hinds
the rifle, even though the park and population
wet, windy, wintry day, but simply that the chances
stalker – very visible, with the sound of frozen
was small. In this case the downside was that she
of success are so very much reduced. Wait a day,
bracken stems on gaiters alerting every deer,
was an aggressive old beast who, once she had
the weather clears, and approaching the roe
seen or unseen, to your presence, sometimes for
dropped her calf, would spend the next couple
becomes immeasurably more rewarding in terms
some hundreds of metres. It is worth going out on
of months attacking any incomer to the park in a
of relative success. With hinds in the highlands,
a poor day just to snatch a morning, or even the
flurry of flailing hooves!
however, the weather is your friend and can mask
end of an improving day, especially at that time
I think what draws me to hind stalking is doing
small deficiencies or mistakes in an approach. The
when the hinds begin to descend off the tops and
battle with the conditions, and the sheer amount
deer are still there, they are still entirely visible but,
down to the low ground to feed. On the island
of hard work involved. As a lowland stalker, it’s not
if anything, they are slightly less alert. In contrast,
that I have been lucky enough to stalk for the past
laziness that stops you getting out after roe on a
a bright, crisp day on the hill makes you – the
15 years, we often catch as many on the return journey as we do in a full day on the hill. In fact,
“ The weather is your friend and can mask small deficiencies or mistakes in an approach ”
dawn and dusk stalking works as successfully as it does anywhere, and it often surprises me how late people tend to go out and how early they tend to return when stalking red deer generally. Extraction is also one of the rewarding challenges of stalking hinds. At home one gets used to the ease with which roe can be collected and transported, and it is only fallow that entail hard work. Such work, however, is not confined to the simple exertion of dragging, and usually involves mud, lifting, gore and just enough weight to make it almost impossible. Those who have tried lifting a decent pricket on to the back of a quad will understand what I mean – it’s not impossible, but sometimes it seems to be! Extracting hinds from the hill is by no means easy, particularly if you chose the wrong burn and end up dragging down a narrow, rocky chasm. Stick to the wet grass and a carcase will glide gently downhill and will even pull uphill without too much trouble when necessary. Unlike the stags there are no antlers to get
Credit: Byron Pace
lodged in the heather or entwined in the dead bracken – and a long drag leaves the feeling of More and more, full grallochs are performed on the hill
having worked hard. We are also beginning to do full field grallochs before returning to the larder, rather than the traditional approach of removing the green
When hind stalking, the hardest part of the excursion can come after taking the shot
gralloch on the hill and completing the process back in the larder. Using one of the many lifting aids on the market, like the Napier Truck Click, which can be fitted to the back of a quad, a clean, suspended full gralloch can be completed and then inspected without the need to transport waste back to the larder. Care needs to be taken in transporting the carcase to ensure no crosscontamination occurs during the journey home. For this we use an aluminium trailer, cleaned down between forays, with a cover to ensure mud from the quad wheels is kept away from the carcases. The physical challenge and required skill set of stalking reds is so very different from the art of stalking a solitary roe that the opportunity
Credit: Byron Pace
becomes a welcome break from the established daily routine. I look forward to the opportunity with great enthusiasm and anticipation of a good job done to preserve and improve a fine island herd.
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75
kit ACCESSORIES
BITS AND PIECES
You’ve got the rifle and scope sorted – what else do you need? Here’s a roundup of handy gear to make your stalks and shoots successful and enjoyable
CENS PROFLEX DX5 Protecting your hearing is crucial whether you’ll be taking one shot or 100. The ProFlex DX5 is the latest offering from moulded electronic ear defender company CENS, and the new model boasts five individual programs, which translate to in-built settings for different environments. These programs are selected via a toggle switch. The ‘Hunter’ mode will be most suitable for stalking,
3HGR (TREEHUGGER)
making everyday sounds and noises easily
Distinctive in design and function, the Treehugger is a versatile and easy-to-use sling that transforms
recognisable and not distracting from the stalk.
just about anything into a stable rest. Helping with improvised shooting positions, the 3HGR enables
Should you get home and need to use these plugs
the customer to use trees, poles, beams and other vertical objects for added support. Also flexible to
for clay shooting or range work – no problem, just
become a harness – distributing the weight of the gun across both shoulders – the sling makes for a
switch the profile.
balanced and comfortable carry, especially when using suppressed or heavy rifles. With the help of 3HGR
Price: From £699
it is possible to fire in more demanding positions and angles and even shoot moving targets.
CENS Digital 01634 719427 censdigital.com
Price: From £46 Viking Arms 01423 780810 vikingshoot.com
Gerber Kettlebell New to the Gerber collection is the Gerber Kettlebell FE folding knife, a versatile tool that benefits from its rugged design with its stainlesssteel 7Cr17MoV 2.5in blade and sturdy frame lock.
Lars Fält knife
The Kettlebell has a dual finger choil as well as an
A sturdy knife from Casström developed with renowned wilderness and survival expert Lars Fält. The
anodised aluminium textured handle, offering a
blade is made from thick Böhler K720 tool steel with high carbon content to make the knife durable even
secure grip. This knife can also be clipped to your
with hard use. The steel quality coupled with the Scandinavian grind make the blade robust but still easy
pocket for quick access. With a slim profile, it can
to handle and easy to grind. The knife has a full-tang construction, and even if the handle is damaged in
be carried about your person for any outdoor task
any way, it can still be used without problems. A sturdy and deep sheath in vegetable tanned leather and
without getting in the way.
a leather strap for the handle is included.
Price: £35.95
Price: £125
Thomas Jacks 01789 264100 www.
Casstrom 01628 330330 casstrom.co.uk
thomasjacks.co.uk
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kit ACCESSORIES
Schöffel gloves These tweed gloves are part of Schöffel’s new autumn/winter collection, which includes coats, fleeces, accessories and more. While looking the part on a shoot, they’re also warm, made from pure lambswool, British milled tweed and cowhide leather. The cuff is adjustable with two side buttons, so you can reduce draughts at the wrist and keep in the heat.
LEUPOLD LTO THERMAL TRACKER
Price: £60
Released last year, the LTO-Tracker thermal unit is built with deer follow-ups in mind, helping you easily
Schöffel schoffelcountry.com
recover game even when you’ve completely lost light. This compact and lightweight thermal imager boasts a 21-degree field of view and up to 6x digital zoom with a man-sized detection distance up to 600 yards (500m). With six optional palettes and user-controlled reticle for a quick acquisition of the target, the LTO offers up to 10 hours of continuous use on one battery cycle. Price: From £952 Viking Arms 01423 780810 vikingshoot.com
JAVBELIN BIPOD It’s possible you’ve never even really thought about what bipod goes on your rifle. This bipod, with a carbon-fibre construction and magnetic attachment, is going to make you think again. It’s ultra-quiet in attachment and removal – and since
APEX FINDERS KEEPERS
it detaches so easily, you can take it off when not
Never lose anything out on the hill again. These high-vis, flat-profile ear identifiers can be attached to
required and save yourself some weight. Plus, you
virtually any piece of equipment, available in two sizes: small for knives, torches and tools, large for radios
can attach it to more than one rifle – so you can
and smartphones. The FKs are heat-resistant, strong and stretchy, and once attached they won’t simply
buy one bipod to cover your entire collection of
roll off thanks to the flat inner profile. You can also write on the inside of the ring with a permanent
rifles. The result – surprisingly for one of the more
marker – just add your name, number or postcode for added security.
expensive bipods on the market – is a big saving.
Price: £5.99-£8.99
Price: £255
Napier 01235 812993 napieruk.com
Javelin javelinbipod.com
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Credit: Slots Media, Instagram @slotsmedia
stalking safety
Safety first Are you taking safety in the field seriously enough? Will O’Meara takes you through the essential safety measures before, during and after a stalk
T
he auld ‘health and
things like hypothermia, bullet holes, and falling
This article is not designed to stop you pursuing
safety’ is a sure
out of flying machines.
your passion or seeking adventure – I hope it will
topic to induce that glazed-over,
Hunting is a hobby for most, a time of
facilitate more adventure not less.
relaxation and enjoyment, and as a result most
thousand-yard stare from any audience,
recreational hunters never sit down and think
Nightmare scenario
but when the topic is surrounding rifles and
about the possible risks in quite the same way
Safety starts at home. What can go wrong, will go
hunting, it should be far more worthy of
as we do in a professional environment. When
wrong. An example of this that comes to mind is
attention, right? Well, it should be, and if you
you look at hunting in a clinical matter it’s not
a story of a friend of a friend, based in Scotland.
think you know it all, think again.
difficult to readily come up with a list of possible
This experienced hunter always took great care
risks involving knives, firearms, extreme terrain,
and attention with the safety of his firearms. On
statements and risk assessments for everything
and vehicles to name a few. We cannot live our
one particular day he took his new .300WSM out
from a paper cut to a caffeine overdose. In the
life in constant worry or without risk, but we
of the safe, and handed it to his friend. There
military we do the same, but the risks include
should definitely plan for when things go wrong.
was no bolt or magazine in the rifle, as he always
In the office environment we have safety
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stalking safety
“ A visual check of the chamber is always necessary. Strange things can and do happen ”
hindsight is that a visual check of the chamber is always necessary. Strange things can and do happen – a broken extractor could yield a similar result. Check, always visually check. Every time someone hands you a
stored these separately. He retrieved the bolt as
three shots, and as he chambered the fourth he
rifle, check the safety, remove the mag, open the
his friend admired the new rifle. Fitting the bolt,
noted that the group looked to be just a ragged
bolt and look in the chamber. Keep your firearm
he said, “Try the trigger.” His friend looked to see
hole. He removed the bolt and walked up to
in a quality safe, store the bolt and ammo safely
no magazine fitted to the rifle, closed the bolt,
confirm. On closer inspection he noted that, yes,
and separately, be mindful. And get insurance. If
shouldered the rifle and touched the trigger.
indeed the group was phenomenally just a ragged
you are reading this and you don’t have hunting
It is hard to even imagine the fright that both
hole. The same as any of us, he was delighted, and
insurance, stop, get on the web and buy insurance
men got when the boom of the shot went off. It is
packed up his kit happy to be the proud owner of
now – you’ll be glad of it if something happens.
even more unimaginable what their shock would
a tack driver in a serious calibre.
Vehicle safety
have been on hearing the scream of the man’s
But he stored the rifle without bolt or
wife as the ballistic tip bullet tore through wall,
magazine… so how did it fire a shot? What
Quad, four-wheeler, ATV, call it what you will. It
into the next room and her shoulder. This is a
happened was that the fourth round that he fed
is an exceptional tool for the recovery of deer
true story. The lady survived the accident, but not
into the chamber was push-fed in. He didn’t close
carcases but it is not without its dangers. I have
without a lengthy treatment in hospital.
the bolt so the extractor never engaged in the rim
used the quad in a professional and recreational
So what happened? We’ve all done it: gone
of the case. So when he removed the bolt, there
capacity and while they are a handy tool, they
to the range in the excitement of setting up and
was a round in the chamber. He stored the gun
need to be treated with respect.
zeroing a new rifle. On this occasion the guy
muzzle-up in the safe so it was bad luck that that
decided to finish up with a grouping practice. He
short, fat .300 WSM case stayed in the chamber
over. The most impressive addition to a quad
loaded four rounds into the magazine and settled
overnight and remained there… waiting.The
that I have used is the use of dual wheels on the
in at 100 yards to shoot a group. He fired the first
lesson we can all learn from the clarity of 20/20
rear axle. Clic are one such make that can detach
One of the main concerns with a quad is a roll
You need to know your chamber state – that means visually checking
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stalking safety
easily and attach securely – they really widen the stance of the vehicle and make a roll over almost impossible. Almost… They also add considerable capability for crossing soft ground, and as such they also cause less damage to the ground. All in all I believe they are the best addition to any quad that I have used in my years. On mountain terrain the chance of flipping the quad is always there and there have been many accidents where a quad has flipped backwards on a steep ascent. The danger here is that the most natural reaction can be to try and save yourself from being crushed by using your feet to stop the bike falling on you – the inevitable result is breaking a leg or a hip. Alternative methods of recovery range from pony to packs, and each needs to be well thought out using reliable equipment designed for the task. For dragging or backpacking out the meat, you can prepare by conditioning the body. This can take the format of off-season strength and endurance training to ensure you are as fit as possible. It should also include task-specific training such as weighted cardio using a backpack or dragging a sled. These preparations will ensure that you build your physical conditioning in a progressive manner and that your kit and equipment fits correctly and is fit for purpose. People might throw their eyes to heaven at but think about its benefits. Such training will make you stronger, it will help prevent injury, it will ensure speedy recovery, allow you to perform these physical tasks as you get older, and it will also make the experience become more enjoyable. Fitness is a habit – a little bit everyday will add up over time. A good philosophy to apply here is, “being weak never came in handy.” Whatever hunting situation you are in, be aware of the hazards, and mitigate or accept the risk.
First aid If you spend a considerable amount of your time around firearms and in remote and rugged locations, you should be equipped to deal with
At the beginning of a hunt I will check that the
of the hunt for an accidental discharge of the
injuries that can range from gunshot wounds, to
chamber is empty and demonstrate to my hunting
rifle to occur. It is my long-term habit only to
cuts from knives, to a sprained ankle. You and
partner that it is so. I will close the bolt and fit the
load the rifle once I am set up in the final firing
your first aid kit should know how to deal with a
full magazine.
position. The load can be done almost silently
gunshot wound, know how to give CPR and how
It is good practice to have your safety catch
by drawing the bolt back halfway and feeding
to field-treat everything from a broken limb to an
on safe, if only to ingrain that good habit and
a round directly into the chamber. For this
upset stomach. As well as knowing the first aid to
to give everyone else the visual reassurance
purpose I usually carry spare rounds in my bino
administer in a wilderness scenario, you should
that the firearm is safe. This may take some
harness and on the stock of the rifle. The added
also know how to initiate a rescue – it can be as
manipulation for certain rifles but in my opinion
bonus of this is that I can have my magazine full
simple as a phone call to the mountain rescue or
it is worth the effort.
plus an additional round in the chamber, giving
coastguard – and how to keep a casualty stable and comfortable while help arrives.
Treat the muzzle of the rifle like a laser. It should never sweep through or point at another
me a total of five rounds for my .270 Win. A word on the Blaser-style straight pull. I have
person regardless of the state of the firearm.
owned a couple of Blasers and found them to
Firearm safety
To demonstrate such discipline can only be
be nice to shoot and well made – a useful and
Firearms handling should be a point of pride. Your
interpreted as competence on your behalf.
adaptable tool. I get the mechanics of having a
confidence in the safe state of your firearm should
It continues to surprise me that people often
live round in the chamber of a Blaser and the
be based on your attention to detail. As I said, it is
suggest loading the rifle at the early stage of a
cocking of the gun, but I don’t agree with having
always important to check your chamber is empty.
stalk. The stalk is perhaps the most likely stage
a round in the chamber. It’s unsafe.
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Credit: Slots Media, Instagram @slotsmedia
the thought of physical preparation for the hunt,
stalking safety
Credit: Jason Doyle
The sharper it is, the safer it is. Pay attention to knife handling regardless of your experience
I suppose an element of this is mechanical
believe that if you don’t have time to load the rifle,
emotions visibly shaking after the shot. The main
mistrust, based on years of seeing things that
then the opportunity has passed. So what! There
points after the shot and during the follow up
“shouldn’t be possible” happening through freak
will be other opportunities.
are the same as during the stalk.
however, is based on my own experience. With a
The final moment
deer that has been shot, they can often be
traditional bolt rifle I am always super-disciplined
On taking the shot we should all be aware that a
very much alive and may require further action
about loading and unloading, checking the
safe backdrop is required. Despite this obvious
to swiftly and humanely dispatch. This can be
and unforeseen series of events. The main reason,
chamber and applying the safety. This can all happen in a matter of seconds. A good example is where you have a failed stalk or have to move a few yards to
It is my experience that on approaching a
“ It is my experience that on approaching a deer that has been shot, they can often be very much alive ”
a different firing position. The
especially true with a head or neck shot. As experienced hunters we don’t really put a whole load of thought into this, but when you sit down and analyse the prospect of
process with a bolt-action rifle is
approaching a wounded animal
quite definite and has a few parts to it. With the
safety point, I am surprised with the amount
of – in the case of a red stag – up to 300kg who
Blaser-style action, however, you simply cock or
of videos online that show a shot taken at an
is armed with sharpened antlers and built of wild
de-cock the little button. The process is so small
animal on a skyline. No matter how remote
muscle, then surely some amount of caution is
and so un-deliberate that it can on occasion, in
the chance this may present a danger, it is an
in order. There is no secret recipe here other
the heat of the moment, get overlooked. In a
unnecessary risk.
than to use observation and caution, be aware
situation like a high-seat this may not be such a
Without turning this into a DSC manual, it is
of your backdrop and ricochet potential if a
big deal, but in a gritty dynamic stalk it can be a
worth considering the safety issues that can occur
follow-up shot is required, and use caution with
major risk. For me, in a spot-and-stalk scenario, I
after the shot. I’ve seen hunters overcome with
your knife.
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OPINION CONSERVATION
The future of hunting Scottish hill stalking has been essentially the same for over 100 years, but its future is not guaranted. Byron Pace says we all need to try harder to defend and promote hunting
A
s a teenager I lusted
This places a great burden on all of us, but
the progress of our forefathers. Yet, within the
over the stories of
gives unprecedented meaning and purpose to
hunting community, in many respects, we have
old. I saw them as
the legacy we leave. If you wanted to make a
allowed the foundations of ethics, conservation
the adventures of a
difference, now is the time to be living it.
and sportsmanship etiquette slide in the wake
time long past, and resigned myself to seeking
What we do as hunters today matters. How we
of over commercialisation. We as individuals are
out the best of the hunting opportunities
are perceived matters. Doing nothing, hiding from
not the most important aspect of hunting. What
that remained. As far as I was concerned, the
the realities of a shifting society, is only an option
hunting means is.
golden days of hunting were gone.
if we are happy to drift and fade with the sands
However, as I got older I realised just how
of time.
wrong and defeatist I had been. I realised, that in
Be in no doubt. We are not winning. As a community globally, we are losing our relevance in a society which has moved faster than we have
spite of what may have been, right now is one of
Looking back
evolved. A society disconnected and removed
the greatest eras in hunting’s history.
Do you know what is written on the side of a two-
from the land we inhabit.
I say this because never before will the actions we take over such a confined period define our future so drastically.
pound coin? “Standing on the shoulder of giants”.
You don’t have to cast your mind back all that
That quote was taken from the 12th century
far to find a time when hunters were the heroes of
and repeated by Isaac Newton. We build on
every story. They were revered and championed
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opinion conservation
Hunters were once seen as heroes – will they ever be seen this way again?
Scottish species may be magnificent but we need to think about the conservation of species all over the world
of an outcome they could not stand by and allow to happen. It was great people – hunters, conservationists, naturalists and visionaries such as Teddy Roosevelt, Aldo Leopold and George Bird Grinnell – who worked tirelessly for the greater good. A future where hunting formed an integral tool to ensure the wildlife came first. But they didn’t do it alone. It required collaboration with people and organisations who didn’t necessarily see eye to eye. With this, they were able to forge a positive future towards a common end goal. John Muir and Teddy Roosevelt disagreed on many things, but they found a way
Credit: Empato/iStock
to come together. This is something we could learn from today. Not just between the hunting community and non-hunting organisations who are often critical of us, but also within our own community. In a future where hunting survives, we have to unify far more, in thinking, in resources and in direction. in life and as much as fiction. Hunters and
to save what was left. Humans had wiped out
naturalists were not distinguished from one
the passenger pigeon in the blink of an eye for
and the custodianship of the wildlife and
another. They were one and the same. At some
greed and agricultural progression. The mighty
landscape. Where our interest and care extended
point, this diverged, and with it came a great loss
bison stood at a mere few hundred individuals.
beyond the species we pursued. Where the
in our deeper connection to the land.
Herds that would take many days to pass by,
idea of honour to yourself, the wildlife and the
disappeared on the back of politics and market
environment lay at the very foundation of what it
Against the odds
hunting. Name any of the big game now abundant
was to be a hunter.
In the years that followed the 1890s, in face of
in North America, and at that period in history,
great odds and the near-certain demise of much
population recovery seemed almost a lost cause.
of the big game in Northern America, it was hunters which were at the forefront of the drive
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Despite what seemed an impossible task, a small number of people stood in defiance
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What used to be important was the experience
As a community we allowed the end result to become the sole point of our endeavours. We stopped focusing on the experience, and the contributing role we played as hunters. Very often
OPINION CONSERVATION
educate, and crucially, reach people outside of what we may have seen traditionally as part of our community. Herein lies one of our great failures. Our ability to recognise the simple fact that in order for hunting to continue to play a role in the management of our landscape, it has to be both relatable and relevant in today’s world. In a modern society. This is no easy task, but we first have to acknowledge it. One thing we do wrong is we spend far too much time preaching to the converted. We need people to stand up and drive forward change. Sometimes change won’t be popular, but the time for such concerns is long passed. We need to push ourselves to a situation where we are proactive, not reactive. Continually we find ourselves on the back foot, often defending aspects of hunting against attacks we should have seen coming. I believe part of the issue lies in the incredibly short horizon we seem to have. Who is sitting down and formulating a strategy for the next 100 years? A strategy to ensure we pull through the shift in how society views hunting? I hope someone is, because we should be. A longer horizon, viewed by people with the right skillset, would have foreseen the over-supply of reared game long before it happened. There, it became about the inches, and in this we allowed
learn from our mistakes. I see chinks of light in the
we have all been so consumed with a problem
the concept of trophy hunting to be stolen and
dark clouds that sit firmly over hunting. A rewriting
entirely self-produced, and fixable with restraint
morphed into something it wasn’t.
of the narrative we tell, where once again the
and the right leadership. Meanwhile we ignore the
journey takes priority, and the wildlife comes first.
global precedents being set. We are so blinkered
we pursued as hunters was only one moment. A
I see a shift in the nature of articles in our press
inside our own little island, refusing to comment
moment of success measured by blood on the
and that is encouraging.
or be counted on international events.
We became content with the notion that what
ground. We saw this in articles home and abroad,
The last two years have also seen the much
we saw it in adverts and we saw it rampant during
newer medium of podcasting forge a powerful
down grizzly bear hunting. Poland has laid down
the rise of hunting videos, both before and after
and important voice for the thoughtful hunter.
crippling restrictions on their own hunting culture.
the wave of online content available today.
My brother Darryl and I know from our own
Tanzania is busy imploding as one concession
podcast show just how this can inform and
after the next is handed back to the government.
Today we have trivialised hunting for the benefit
In the last six months British Columbia has shut
of a social media following. An often shallow veneer for popularity where it’s done for the story first. Our ability as individuals to reach so many people is empowering for the hunting community, but in the same breath incredibly dangerous. What do you think the greatest recruiting drive for PETA last year was? Not anything they did. It was something we did. ‘Shoot animals not selfies’, the profile picture campaign. Who thought that was a good idea? Just pause for a moment and reflect on how that looked to someone who didn’t hunt. Not a hater. Not an anti-hunter. Just an average urban-dwelling person who knows little of hunting. It looked bad. It was an easy trap to get carried away with, but it was naive and arrogant and encapsulates in a single action just how deep our lack of understanding goes when it comes to how we shape a positive future for hunting. I don’t like to dwell on the negatives or the failures of the past, but I do believe we should
We all need to put more effort into conservation and safeguarding the environment around us
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opinion conservation
that you will take home what you kill. If you share a few hundred birds between a group of friends, you should be prepared to take them home and process them. You may be told that this comes at extra cost. Market prices may be good, and demand abundant. Then the choice becomes yours. However, the expectation should be, we are responsible for the lives we take. This has to be the case, and often it’s not. We need to rebuild this connection. From here we must grow. We must re-shape and re-write the hunting narrative to be relevant today. It can be done, and it will work if the wildlife comes first. Realise that all the people and agendas that would like to wipe hunting from our future have as many hours in the days as we do. So what
Whatever kind of shooting you prefer, you are responsible for the lives you take
does this tell us? It tells us we must be smarter. We must work harder. Be more dedicated and resolute. It may be politically correct to tell the
We need to be more engaged on an
We are increasingly surrounded by taglines
kids of today that it’s the taking part that counts,
international stage. At the very least it allows us
and straplines like ‘huntervationist’. Many of us
but we all know that’s a lie. There will be no taking-
to learn and prepare ourselves better. At most,
embrace it proudly. But are we being honest?
part medal for the hunting community if we fail
Ask yourself, what do you really do? What
we will be contributing and helping towards
find a foothold in the future. And we must. As our
the greater challenge of safeguarding hunting
makes you a conservationist? If you are going to
population climbs from 7 to 8 billion people, and
and the sustainable harvest of game all over
say it. Own it. If you can’t give your time, give your
will probably reach 9 in the future, it will be the
the world.
money, but be invested in more than what you
value given to wildlife and wild places that allows
can get out of it. What made the great hunter
us to safeguard the soul of our planet.
What it shows us now is that the science is no longer enough. If it was, many of
conservationists was love and dedication to the
the confrontations we have on moorland
natural world. A desire to understand and learn.
Looking forward
management would disappear. If science was
Just because you do, doesn’t mean you are.
It’s said that one person can change the world.
enough, grizzly bears would still be hunted in
We must realise that it’s no longer an argument
We don’t have one. We have a whole community.
BC, regulated elephant hunting would be widely
that our actions are sustainable. Why would we be
If one person can change the world, imagine what
accepted, and Cecil the lion would be a name no
doing something that isn’t sustainable? Our aim
we can do together.
one knew.
should be enhancement.
The fact is, in the modern society we are all part
We must take greater personal responsibility,
of, the moral reasons we do what we do matter.
and our organisations should be brave enough to
This is the reality. It is a reality we will not change,
lay down an ethical framework that challenges us.
but we need to understand. There must, and there has to be, a morally
Every time you hunt, be that a driven day or stalking on the hill, the expectation should be
Let the emotion of what we could lose drive you. Feel in the pit of your stomach and take ownership of the future. We must find our voice. The voice of the modern hunter. Because it is the modern hunter we must become. This is our time.
acceptable justification for our actions. Without this, any expectation we will convince a disinterested, discounted urban majority is destined to failure. It would be neat to conclude a positive outcome for the future with a single line or euphony, but I can’t. The matter is far too complex for that. I do however believe that we would be facing a very different proposition if we all expected more from ourselves.
What makes a conservationist? What many of the great hunters and naturalists had in common was a deep-seated connection with the wilderness. More often than not, this is lost today. We are not honest with ourselves or our motivations enough. We fail to appreciate the small things with enough gravity.
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We need to think about the stories we tell and the way we portray hunting – particularly when it comes to social media
the future GROUSE SHOOTING
MOOR EFFORTS It’s a crucial time for the grouse shooting sector, says Tim Baynes of the Scottish Land & Estates Moorland Group, but we have already seen a cultural shift
T
his is set to be an important year
The loss to other rural businesses, such as
suggests that sphagnum moss and cottongrass
for the grouse shooting sector.
hotels, pubs, taxi firms, and local shops, has not
cover appears to benefit from regular muirburn
We await with keen interest the
been calculated, but we know that in a good year
every few years, and a similar positive effect has
outcome of the Werritty Review,
they can benefit to the tune of £23m. Scottish
been noted on biodiversity.
to be delivered to the Scottish Parliament in
Government VAT and tax receipts will also have
April. Some of you will have been involved in
been hit by the reduction in shoot days.
as he has gathered information from
Muirburn is working well
shooting estates, countryside organisations
The new muirburn code was introduced in
Raptors are returning and a new attitude to their conservation prevails
and conservation bodies the length and
September 2017 and shooting estates have
Moorlands have wildlife in abundance, from
breadth of Scotland.
adapted well to the changes introduced. We
lizards and mountain hares to rare plants, ground-
know that gamekeepers have helped provide
nesting birds, owls and raptors. Birds of prey are
of gathering information from relevant parties
training for the SFRS in some areas to help
particularly important to us and there has been
has been conducted in a comprehensive
reduce the spread of wildfires when they do
a culture shift in recent years. Grouse moors
and effective manner. What would I hope
break out, and this valuable work continues.
are active participants in the SNH-led “Heads
that Professor Werritty has retained from his
We also saw gamekeepers rush to assist their
Up For Harriers” project to find out reasons for
meetings with the shooting fraternity? My key
neighbours when there were wildfires caused
poor breeding, and SLE is a founder member of
message would be that the sector has already
by members of the public in the Angus Glens
the South of Scotland Golden Eagle project. On
embraced a culture of self-regulation and shown
in the hot summer of 2018. Recent evidence
Speyside and the Monadhliaths there has been
submitting information to Professor Werritty
We should be reassured that the process
its commitment to conservation.
Grouse shooting supports jobs in fragile rural communities Last month, Scotland’s regional moorland groups assessed the impact of the poor season as resulting in a loss of between £10m and £15m nationwide. Among the worst hit areas were Tayside, Speyside and the Lammermuirs. A survey of 50 estates found that 16,000 day shifts for beaters, cooks, and housekeepers were cancelled, although full-time gamekeepers’ jobs were protected.
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Muirburn continues to play a role in shaping today’s uplands
the future GROUSE SHOOTING
Tourists come to shoot, but often stay and spend money elsewhere in Scotland Groups who come here for country sports will also spend money on other pursuits. It must not be forgotten that visitors use non-shooting days for distillery and castle visits, golf or shopping in Edinburgh. Many also extend their trip to see more of Scotland while they are here. Shooting is a showcase for the heritage and tradition loved by millions around the world but not always appreciated at home.
The creation of the British Game Alliance shows the way ahead for marketing game The BGA seeks to create sustainable outlets improvements for other species of ground-
for fresh game, backed by a quality assurance
nesting and moorland birds. In Tomatin, wild grey
scheme to maintain the highest standards. The
partridges returned to the Tomatin moors in 2017
BGA is on target to achieve its target of 500 shoots
for the first time in 20 years after bantam hens
signed up by April, with Scotland playing its part.
were used as surrogate egg-sitters.
Members are audited before they can display the British Game Assurance Scheme logo. Consumers
The whole community benefits from the work of shooting estates Estates are sometimes portrayed in the media as
benefit from full traceability and the knowledge that game has been produced in an ethical and transparent manner. Scottish grouse shooting remains in high
distant or removed from the rest of the country.
demand from shooters around the world. It has
The reality is that estates play a full role in their
been a poor year for shooting due to the weather
local communities and often support local
but enthusiasm has not been dampened, and
businesses. In the Lammermuirs and the Tomatin
we hope that by next season there will be a more
a rise in golden eagle breeding. Collaborative
region, local bee-keepers benefit from moving
secure political future for the sector, locking in
projects like these, where land managers
their hives on to the moorland early in the season
best practice grouse moor management for the
are working with raptor experts, are the way
to take advantage of the young heather blooms.
long term. In a post-Brexit world, sustainable
ahead. Any crime against a bird of prey is simply
Estate shops are often a vital resource for local
land uses which contribute strongly to the rural
unacceptable today. We have progressed to the
people and walkers benefit from hill tracks and
economy and biodiversity, without reliance on
point where recorded crimes against all birds of
open access to moorland.
public subsidy, will be valuable – grouse shooting
Keepers and raptor advocates need to work together to conserve them
prey in Scotland have dwindled to single figures,
can provide that.
with moorland managers playing their part to bring the figures down.
Peatland restoration projects and other conservation work continues apace Major peatland restoration projects were in progress in 2018 which will enable carbon sequestration, habitat improvement and restoration of eroded areas of upland amid some of Scotland’s most wild and beautiful landscapes. Over 3,700 acres of land in the Monadhliaths and over 1,200 acres in the Cairngorms National Park will have been restored by this summer. The work will help to enhance the precious home of rare birds, mammals and plants. Other longterm initiatives will also continue despite the economic hit, such as new fencing and habitat
Beekeepers in Tomatin are an example of a non-shooting group benefiting from moorland management
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
91
kit cartridges
SHELLS TO SUIT If you’re heading to Scotland for driven grouse or lowland game shooting, you need a high-quality cartridge to do the job on those fast-flying birds…
Express Supreme Game The flagship of the Lyalvale Express fleet, Supreme is designed to meet the demands of the most discerning grouse shooter for patterning, velocity and versatility. Based on the Olympic Gold Medal case, this is a true 65mm cartridge suitable for best English guns, while a high brass cap enhances the cartridge’s traditional appeal and aids ejection. A single-base powder helps ensure manageable recoil, while the lead is tightly quality-controlled for antimony content and sphericity. Available in 28, 30- and 32gram plastic and fibre plus 34-gram fibre. Lyalvale Express 01543 434400 www.lyalvaleexpress.com
Hull Driven Grouse Rio Classic Game It might sport a partridge on the box, but Rio’s Classic Game Ojeo is a favourite choice of grouse shooters – including the owner of CCI, who we’re told selects them when he heads to the moor. Competitively priced and smoothshooting, it’s a versatile cartridge suitable for early-season lowland birds as well as grouse, loaded with 30 grams of 6-shot and a fibre wad. Rio quotes a muzzle velocity of around 400m/s, with pressures well within the CIP recommendation. CCI 1536 260933 cci-international.com
There’s no doubt what form of quarry this cartridge is designed to tackle. Designed from the ground up, it’s available in 20bore (pictured) as well as 12, with shot loads from 28 to 32 grams in 6-shot or 5.5. Hull styles these as early and late-season specifications, which neatly demonstrates the made-for-purpose appeal of their brand. Stated velocities of 1,450fps at the muzzle are ample for dealing with with fast-flying grouse. There are 65mm and 70mm case options available. Hull Cartridge 01482 342756 hullcartridge.co.uk
Black Gold Game Gamebore’s ubiquitous and respected flagship load, the Black Gold is a highperformance game cartridge that can be seen in great numbers on the moor. Powered by F2 powder technology and incorporating Gamebore’s Diamond shot – designed to hold patterns tighter at long range – it’s truly a load for testing shots on driven birds, having been field-tested by high-bird specialist Simon Ward before release. Gamebore also say the cartridge boasts 15 per cent less recoil compared to other comparable loads on the market. Available in 12- and 20-bore. Gamebore 01482 223 707 www.gamebore.com
60
www.countrysportscotland.com
kit cartridges
Eley Zenith Since release in late 2015, the Zenith cartridge, with its distinctive coppercoated shot, has garnered no shortage of fans. It’s regularly used by the stars of The Shooting Show, including Geoff Garrod and Peter Carr, and Eley’s starstudded line-up of sponsored shooters cant get enough of it either – England rugby player Tom Croft has described them as “phenomenal”. Coming in 12or 20-bore designs, the Zenith line-up includes 28-gram 6-shot 20b and 30gram 6-shot 12b options, both ideally suited to Scottish game shooting. Eley Hawk 0121 3523277 www.eleyhawkltd.com
Nobel Speed
Clever T3 Game
Fiocchi F3 Game
Coming from Italian brand Clever, this is nonetheless a cartridge suitable for quintessentially British hunting scenarios, as the box art signifies. It’s not just a pheasant load, though – in 30-gram 6-shot it’s more than suitable for grouse. And with a cartridge length of 65mm, it’s made to work in any shotgun, including the classical side-by-sides you’re more likely to see on the moor. Garlands 01827 383300 www.garlands.uk.com
An ultra-versatile cartridge, no game cartridge round-up would be complete without Fiocchi’s F3 Game. The cartridges are available in 30- and 32-gram loads in shot sizes 5 and 6. They are loaded with fibre wads and available at a competitive price. The 12-gauge cartridges are loaded into a 67mm case with 16mm head space and are suitable for both 2.5 and 2.75 inch chambers. Fiocchi 07836 372179 fiocchiuk.com
As the name gives away, this game cartridge from NSI is designed for high muzzle velocities within CIP pressure limits – NSI quotes 1,335fps at the muzzle in the 20-bore version of this load. Pictured here is the 12-bore option, ideal for the modern grouse shooter with a 70mm length and loads available from 28 to 34 grams, with shot sizes of 5, 6 and 7.5 across the load’s various guises. A fibre-wadded cartridge, it’s perfect for shooting in harmony with the UK’s picturesque moorlands. Edgar Brothers 01625 613177 www.edgarbrothers.com
Cheddite Royal Drive A 65mm premium game load – “for the gentleman of the field,” as UK importer Malmo Guns puts it – the Royal Drive offers the shooter an impressive degree of choice. With 5-shot and 6-shot options available, it also comes in 30- or 32-gram loads, with the option of copper-coated shot. This fibre-wadded cartridge was released in its copper-plated form a couple of years ago, and the take-up it saw then indicates that it’ll be a popular option when this August rolls around. Malmo Guns 01524 793007 www.malmoguns.com
RC Professional Game A quintessentially Italian cartridge, this 65mm load will work in best English guns on the moor, but is versatile enough to take to the lowlands for partridge too. Coming in fibre wad only, it’s most commonly seen loaded with 28 grams of 7-shot. Italian shot sizes are slightly different to British measurements – so an Italian size 7 is what we could call a 6.5, closer to the standard for grouse. There is also a 30-gram load and a 6-shot (UK 5.5). Shooting Star 01728 660372 nick@shootingstarcc.co.uk Shoot IN SCOTLAND
61
DIRECTORY
where to shoot Plan your next Scottish shooting foray anywhere from the Borders to the Highlands with this selection of outfitters and estates compiled by the SCSTG
2
1
3
4
4 5
Achentoul Estate
Anson MacAuslan, Achentoul Estate, Kinbrace, Sutherland, KW11 6UB macanson@hotmail.com 01593 751237 4
6
7
Achnacarry Sporting &
Country Pursuits Linda Poll, Ardechive House, Achnacarry, Spean Bridge,
8
Highlands, PH34 4EL
9
info@achnacarrycountry.co.uk 07554 275832
10
4
11
SCSTG Regions
www.achnacarrycountry.co.uk Altyre Estate
Sir Alistair Gordon Cumming, Altyre
14
12
Estate, Forres, Moray, Highlands, IV36 2SH office@altyre.com, 01309 672265
1
Shetland
2
Orkney
3
The Outer Hebrides
4
Highlands and Skye
5
Aberdeen and Grampian
David Kinnear / Sarah Harvie, Alvie
6
Angus and Dundee
Estate Office, Kincraig, Kingussie,
7
Perthshire
Inverness-shire, PH21 1NE
8
Argyll, the Isles, Loch
info@alvie-estate.co.uk
Lomond, Stirling and
01540 651255
Trossachs 9
13
4
Alvie and Dalraddy
www.alvie-estate.co.uk
The Kingdom of Fife
10 Edinburgh and the Lothians 11 Glasgow and the Clyde Valley 12 Ayrshire and Arran 13 Dumfries and Galloway 14 Scottish Borders
94
www.altyre-estate.co.uk
www.countrysportscotland.com
3
Amhuinnsuidhe Castle
Innes Morrison, Amhuinnsuidhe Castle, Isle of Harris, Western Isles, The Outer Hebrides, HS3 3AS info@amhuinnsuidhe.com 01859 560200, www.amhuinnsuidhe.com
DIRECTORY
8
Ardchattan
Jocelyn Miller, Ardchattan Priory,
01250 883268
01644 430469 / 07747 691447
www.ballathiehousehotel.com
www.casesport.com
Oban, Argyll, PA37 1RQ admin@ardchattan.co.uk www.ardchattan.co.uk
5
Ballogie Estate
12
Cassillis & Culzean Estates
Jean Menage, Ballogie Estate Office,
Ann Williamson / Chris Savage,
Aboyne, Aberdeenshire AB34 5DS
Cassillis & Culzean Estates,
info@ballogie-estate.co.uk,
Jameston, Maidens, Girvan,
Niall Rowantree, West Highland
01339 886497
Ayrshire, KA26 9NF
Hunting, Ardnamurchan Estates,
www.ballogie-estate.co.uk
8
Ardnamurchan Estates
hunting@westhighland-hunting.
ann@cassillisestate.co.uk 01655 332555
Acharacle, Argyll, PH36 4LH 8
Benmore Estate
co.uk
(Isle of Mull)
01972 500275 / 01972 510208
Sarah Pearson, Benmore Estate
Lynda Campbell, Corrielair Estate,
www.westhighland-hunting.co.uk
Office, Heydour Farm, Heydour,
Battleby Farm, Redgorton, Perth,
Lincolnshire NG32 3NG (Estate
PH1 3EN (Property postcode IV63
postcode PA71 6HT)
7YW)
Hugh Nicol MRICS, Argyll Estates
sarah.pearson@tpradford.co.uk,
lynda.campbell@ihbrown.com
office, Cherry Park, Inveraray, Argyll
01400 231133
01738 494488
& The Isles, PA32 8XE
www.benmoreestate.co.uk
8
Argyll Estates
enquiries@inveraray-castle.com 01499 302203
4
7
Black Mount Estate (Glen
Corrielair Estate
INTERNATIONAL BIG GAME & BIRD HUNTING Long-established, well connected and reliable, International Big Game & Bird Hunting can offer all forms of
Craiganour Estate
sporting experience, including
Bobbie Carter/James Adamson,
shooting, stalking and fishing in
Etive)
Craiganour Estate, c/o Savills, Earn
Scotland, as well as throughout
c/o Helen Polley, Bidwells, Carn
House, Broxden Business Park,
the UK and big game hunting
Dearg House, North Road, Fort
Lamberkine Drive, Perth, PH1 1RA
and wing shooting overseas.
Andrew Bruce Wootton, Atholl
William, Highlands, PH33 6PP
(Estate postcode PH17 2QN)
Estates, Blair Atholl, Perthshire,
helen.polley@bidwells.co.uk
BCarter@savills.com; james.
PH18 5TH
01397 702433
adamson@savills.com
www.inveraray-castle.com 7
Atholl Estates
4
www.atholl-estates.co.uk
for all budgets and group sizes from single hunters to large family
01738 477535
abw@atholl-estates.co.uk 01796 481355
Truly everything is available – from bespoke packages designed
3
Borve Lodge Estate
groups. The possibilities are
www.craiganour.co.uk
endless – get in touch to discuss
Neil St Quinton (Estate Manager), Estate Office, Borve Lodge, Borve,
7
your ideas and requirements.
Culfargie Estates
Offering personal attention,
Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides,
(Bandirran and Lochan)
quality accommodation
Sheila McIntosh, Auchmacoy Estate
HS3 3HT
Brian Kaye, Culfargie Estate Office,
and experienced guides,
Office, Ellon, Aberdeenshire,
neil@borvelodge.com
Tarrylaw, Balbeggie, Perth, PH2 6HL
International Big Game & Bird
AB41 8RB
01859 550358
Brian.Kaye@culfargie-estates.co.uk
Hunting pays attention to every
office@auchmacoyestate.co.uk
www.borvelodge.com
01821 640294
5
Auchmacoy Estate
4
Badanloch Estate
goes around it.
Braemore and Langwell
Estates
6
Visit www.kiltarlity.com, email
Dalhousie Estates
Diane Fleming, Badanloch Estate Ltd
Welbeck Estates Co Ltd, Portland
Richard Cooke, Dalhousie Estates,
c/o Strutt and Parker, The Courier
Estates Office, Berriedale, Caithness,
Invermark, Angus, DD9 6SG
Building, 9-11 Bank Lane, Inverness,
Highlands, KW7 6HE
dalhousieestates@btinternet.com
IV1 1WA
macanson@hotmail.com
01356 624566
diane.fleming@struttandparker.
01593 751237
www.dalhousieestates.co.uk
com, 01463 719171 www.badanlochestates.co.uk
the trigger and everything that
www.bandirran.co.uk
01358 720291 4
part of the experience – pulling
girlboots@btinternet.com, or call Cara on 07771 695494 / 01540 661496.
4
Drimnin Estate
Rhonda Newsham, Drimnin Estate, 14
Buccleuch Arms
Diana
Drimnin House, by Lochaline,
Billy Hamilton, Buccleuch Arms, The
Kristina Moeller Neilsen, Diana,
Morvern, Highlands, PA80 5XZ
Green, St Boswells, Melrose, The
Faaborgvej 240, DK-5700,
enquiries@drimninestate.co.uk
Robert Balfour, Pitillock Farm,
Scottish Borders, TD6 0EW
Svendborg, Denmark
07714 248425
Freuchie, Fife, KY15 7JQ
billy@buccleucharms.com
info@diana.dk, 00 45 6220 2540
www.drimninestate.co.uk
RobertBalfour@balbirnie.com
01835 822243 / 07803 745331
www.diana-hunting.com
01337 857437
www.buccleucharms.com
9
Balbirnie Home Farms
www.balbirnie.com
7 12
Case Sport /
Dougarie Estate
Drummond Estates
Michael Aldridge, Drummond
Jamie Gibbs, The Estate Office,
Estate Office, Muthill, Perthshire,
Forrest Estate Enterprises
Dougarie, Isle of Arran, Ayrshire
PH5 2AA
Estate
Andrew Case, Case Sport/Forrest
KA27 8EB
michael_aldridge@
Verity Power, Ballathie House Hotel
Estate Enterprises, St John’s Town of
office@dougarie.com
drummondestates.org.uk
& Estate, Kinclaven, Stanley, Perth,
Dalry, Castle Douglas, Dumfries &
01770 840259
01764 681257
Perthshire, PH1 4QN
Galloway, DG7 3XS
www.dougarie.com
www.simulatedgameshooting.com
verity@ballathiehousehotel.com
andrew@casesport.com
13 7
Ballathie House Hotel &
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
95
DIRECTORY
East Haugh House Hotel
Glendye Estate, Bridge of Dye,
Kingussie, Inverness-shire, PH21
Sophie McGown, Pitlochry,
Strachan, Banchory, AB31 6LT
1NU
Perthshire, PH16 5TE
murdo@glendye.com; rachel@
girlboots@btinternet.com
info@easthaugh.co.uk
glendye.com, 01330 850689
07771 695494
01796 473121
www.glendye.com
www.kiltarlity.com
7
www.easthaugh.co.uk 5 4
East Rhidorroch Estate
Glenmuick Estate
5
Invercauld Estate
Sir Andrew Walker-Okeover,
Angus McNicol, The Estate Office, 4
Julien Legrand, East Rhidorroch
Glenmuick Estate, Glenmuick,
The Keiloch, Invercauld, Braemar,
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
Estate, East Rhidorroch Old Lodge,
Ballater, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5SL
Aberdeenshire, AB35 5TW
Ullapool, Highlands, IV26 2XQ
enquiries@glenmuick.com,
angus@invercauld.org
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel has been
info@rhidorrochlodge.co.uk, 01854
01335 350279
01339 741224
recognised as Scottish Country
612265, www.rhidorrochlodge.co.uk
www.glenmuick.com
www.invercauld.org
Sports Hotel of the Year for the past six years. The Hotel is currently Scottish Country House Hotel as well as Scottish Dog Friendly Hotel of the Year for 2017. This 38-bedroomed hotel is owned and run by a family who have been involved in country sports for over 50 years and know exactly what guests require. The sport available is wide
5
Edinglassie
6
Glenprosen Estate
4
Inverpolly Estate
Malcolm Hay, Edinglassie, Huntly,
Ruth White, Estate Office,
David & Nicky Davies, Inverpolly
Aberdeenshire, AB54 4YD
Headkeeper’s Cottage, Glenprosen
Estate, Ullapool, Ross-shire IV26
malcolm.hay@btinternet.com
Estate, Kirriemuir, Angus, DD8 4SD
2YB
01466 700274
info@glenprosenestate.co.uk
info@inverpolly.com, 01854 622452
01575 540319
www.inverpolly.com
7
Galbraith Group
www.glenprosenestate.co.uk
Robert Rattray, Galbraith Group/ Sporting Lets, Lynedoch House,
4 4
Glenshero Estate &
Kilchoan Estate
Jacqui Wallace / Iain Biggart,
and varied, with some of the
Barossa Place, Perth, PH1 5EP
Sherramore Lodge
Kilchoan Estate Office, Inverie,
renowned local shoots providing
sporting@galbraithgroup.com
Helen Polley, Glenshero Estate &
Knoydart, Mallaig, Inverness-shire,
high, testing pheasants and
01738 451600
Sherramore Lodge, c/o Bidwells,
PH41 4PL
partridges from drives whose
www.sportinglets.co.uk
Carn Dearg House, North Road,
kilchoanestate@btinternet.com
Fort William, Highlands, PH33 6PP
01687 462133
(Estate postcode is PH20 1AJ)
www.kilchoan-knoydart.com
names are well known throughout all of the shooting world, as well as an extensive range of species, which adds great variety and excitement to ‘mixed’ and ‘knockabout’ days. All types of shooting and stalking are available:
9
Game Shooting Fife Ltd
Jamie Horne, 58 Main Street,
helen.polley@bidwells.co.uk
Strathkinness, Fife, KY16 9SA
01397 702433
jamie.horne@deerscotland.com 07502 412201 www.deerscotland.com
• Pigeons over decoys George Goldsmith
4
Kingairloch Estate
Katrina Larson, Kingairloch Estate, 4
Glenshiel Estate
Ardgour, Fort William, Highlands,
Claire Acheson (Estate Alison
PH33 7AE
Stoddard), The Burton Property
info@kingairloch.co.uk
Trust c/o CKD Galbraith, 17 Old
01967 411242 www.kingairloch.co.uk
• Roebuck stalking
10
• Grouse – walked up, over
48 North Castle Street, Edinburgh,
Edinburgh Road, Inverness, IV2 3HF
pointers and driven
EH2 3LU
claire.acheson@ckdgalbraith.
• Driven pheasant and partridge
info@georgegoldsmith.com,
co.uk; booking@glenshielestate.
14
0131 476 6500
com, 01463 224343 / 07766 770796
Doug Virtue, Lammermuir Game
www.georgegoldsmith.com
(Alison), www.glenshielestate.com
Services, Whiteknowes House,
• Mixed walked-up days, woodcock a speciality Contact: john@dryburgh.co.uk, 01835 822261, www.dryburgh.co.uk
Lammermuir Shoot
Westruther, Gordon, Berwickshire, 4
Glenaladale Estate
5
Glen Tanar Estate
TD3 6NE
Jane Cheape, Slatach House,
Eilidh Connolly, Brooks House, Glen
info@lammermuirshoot.co.uk
Glenfinnan, Fort William, Highlands,
Tanar Estate, Aboyne, AB34 5EU
01578 740258
John Wallace, Dryburgh Abbey
PH37 4LT
info@glentanar.co.uk
www.lammermuirshoot.co.uk
Hotel, St Boswells, Melrose, Scottish
j.cheape@btinternet.com
01339 886451, www.glentanar.
Borders, TD6 0RQ
01397 722411
co.uk
14
Dryburgh Abbey Hotel
john@dryburgh.co.uk 01835 822261 www.dryburgh.co.uk
4
Loch Choire Estate
Tom Chetwynd, Loch Choire Estate, 4
Glenavon Estate
7
Innerhadden Estate
Chetwynd Rural, Califermoss,
Debbie Behan, Glenavon Estate Ltd
Richard Barclay, Innerhadden
Forres, IF36 2RN (Estate postcode
c/o Glenavon and Braulen Estates,
Estate, Kinloch Rannoch, by
KW11 6UD)
Beannacharan Lodge, Braulen
Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH16 5QD
tom@chetwyndrural.co.uk
Hamish McCorquodale,
Estate, Glen Strathfarrar, Beauly,
richard@innerhadden.co.uk
07977 516088
Dunan Estate, Rannoch Station,
Inverness, IV4 7JX
01882 632423 / 07917 120429
Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH17 2QB
admin@glenavonestate.co.uk
www.innerhadden.co.uk
hamish@dunan2.co.uk
01463 761204
7
Dunan Estate
01869 277218 www.dunan-estate.co.uk
4 5
Glendye Estate
Murdo MacLeod/Rachel Sedgwick,
96
www.countrysportscotland.com
7
Lude Estate
Duncan Gordon, Lude Estate, Blair International Big Game &
Atholl, Perthshire, PH18 5TR
Bird Hunting
dwjg@lude.co.uk, 01796 481230
Cara Richardson, Burnbank, Insh,
www.ludeestatecottages.co.uk
DIRECTORY
MacIntyre & Thomson
Sorn Castle Shoot
Rannoch Barracks, by Rannoch
12
Simon Wright, MacIntyre &
Station, Perthshire, PH17 2QE
Nick Wright, The Estate Office,
Thomson, 42 Comrie Street, Crieff,
rannochdeermanagement@gmail.
Ulzieside, Sanquhar, Ayrshire,
Perthshire, PH7 4AX
com, 01882 633241
DG4 6LA (Estate postcode KA5
info@macintyreandthomson.co.uk,
www.rannoch-estate.com
6HR)
7
01764 662682 www.macintyreandthomson.co.uk
nick@stanleywright.co.uk 7
Remony Estate
Macintyre & Thomson
01659 58697
James Duncan Millar, Remony Mansfield Estates
MacIntyre & Thomson are a South Ayrshire Stalking
Estate, Aberfeldy, Perthshire,
12
Anne Conoboy, Mansfield Estate,
PH15 2HR
Chris Dalton, Garryloop, Penkill,
pride ourselves on the service
Scone Palace, Scone, Perthshire
james@remonyestate.co.uk
Old Dailly, Girvan, Ayrshire, KA26
we provide to our clients, who
PH2 6BD
01887 830209
9TG
become our friends and return
estate@scone-palace.co.uk
www.lochtaylodges.co.uk
chris@ayrstalk.co.uk, 01465
7
01738 554920 Mar Lodge Estate
year after year. We are able to provide sport of the finest quality
871393 / 07710 871190 4
5
traditional sporting agency. We
Rhidorroch Estate
in the most stunning of settings.
www.ayrstalk.co.uk
Our slogan, “You have the dream /
Kim Scobie, Rhidorroch Estate,
We make it happen,� sums it all up.
South Chesthill Estate
Lisa Dipper, Mar Lodge Estate,
Ullapool, Ross-shire, Highlands,
Braemar, Aberdeenshire, AB35 5YJ
IV26 2XQ
Debbie Beer, South Chesthill
marlodgeestate@nts.org.uk,
holidays@rhidorroch.com, 01854
Partnership, Suite A, 2nd Floor,
be it fishing, stalking, hawking
01339 720163
612373, www.rhidorroch.com
Everards House, 2 Cornhill, Bury St
or shooting, we can build you a
Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1BE (Estate
memorable experience.
postcode is PH15 2NH)
Contact Simon at 01764 662 682 or
7
Murthly and Strathbraan
3
RJH Sports
7
Estate
Russell Hird, RJH Sports, 9 New
bookings@southchesthill.com
Ralph Peters, c/o Bidwells, 5 Atholl
Street, Back, Isle of Lewis, Outer
0207 193 1466
Place, Perth, PH1 5NE
Hebrides, HS2 0LH
www.southchesthill.com
ralph.peters@bidwells.co.uk
info@rjhsports.co.uk, 07751
01738 630666
839579
www.murthly-estate.com
www.rjhsports.co.uk
12
Newark Castle
14
Roxburghe Estates
4
Southesk Estate
We are able to put together mixed packages of different pursuits,
email: info@macintyreandthomson. co.uk
Blachford Manor, Cornwood, Nr
Charles Gow, Southesk Estate
Ivybridge, Devon, PL21 9QX (Estate
Office, Haughs of Kinnaird,
postcode KW8 6HY)
Brechin, Angus, DD9 6UA
diana.darwall@btinternet.com
Mrs A G O Walker, Newark Castle,
Victoria Roddie, Roxburghe
factor@southesk.co.uk
klaus_olofsen@hotmail.com
Ayr, KA7 4ED
Estates, Kelso, Scottish Borders,
01674 810240
Klaus 07787 527824
fiona@newarkcastle.plus.com
TD5 7SF
www.southesk.co.uk
www.suisgill.co.uk
01292 441587
vroddie@floorscastle.com 01573 227 663
7
North Chesthill Estate
www.roxburghe.net
Alastair Riddell, Balintyre House, Roxtons
North Chesthill Estate, Glen Lyon,
3
South Uist Estate
9
Teasses Estate
Jennifer MacLeod, South Uist
Kenneth Horne, Teasses Estate
Estate, Storas Uibhist, Oifis Storas,
Office, Ceres, by Leven, Fife
Daliburgh, South Uist, Outer
KY8 5PG
Perthshire, PH15 2NH
John Duncan, Roxtons, 25 High
Hebrides, HS8 5SS
kennethhorne@teasses.com
information@chesthill.com
Street, Hungerford, Berkshire,
jennifer.macleod@storasuibhist.
07966 529327
01887 877267
RG17 0NF
com, 01878 700101
01334 840580
www.chesthill.com
info@roxtons.com, 01488 689788
www.grogarrylodge.com
www.teasses.com
www.roxtons.com 6
Pearsie Estate
4
Mrs Rosemary Rose, Pearsie
14
Estate, Glen Prosen Sporting Limited, East Memus, Forfar,
Rule Valley Simulated Game
Strathspey Estate
7
Venator Pro
Tracy Wharton, Strathspey Estate
Kenneth Larsen, Venator Pro Ltd,
David Reddihough, Rule Valley
Office, Old Spey Bridge Road,
Riverview Business Centre, Unit 3,
Simulated Game, Spittal on Rule,
Grantown-on -Spey, Moray,
Friarton Road, Perth, PH2 8DF
Angus, DD8 3TY
Denholm, Hawick, Roxburghshire,
Highlands, PH26 3NQ
kenneth.larsen@venatorpro.com
rrose@memus.com, 01307 860355
The Scottish Borders, TD9 8TA
mail@strathspey-estate.co.uk
01738 479714
www.pearsie-lodge.com
info@rulevalley.com, 01450
01479 872529
07940 297921
870202
www.strathspey-estate.co.uk
www.venatorpro.com
7
Pitcarmick Estate
www.rulevalley.com
Mark Wood, Lower Dalvey, Pitcarmick Estate, Ballintuim,
8 5
Scotsport
Strone Estate
9
Woodmill Shootings
Tom Turnbull, Strone House,
Steven Wade, Woodmill Shootings,
Blairgowrie, Perthshire, PH10 7PZ
Alf Sorensen, Learney
Cairndow, Argyll, PA26 8BQ
Woodmill, Lindores, Newburgh,
pitcarmicksporting@btinternet.
House, Torphins, Banchory,
strone@btconnect.com
Fife, KY14 6JA
com 07769 206003
Aberdeenshire, AB31 4NB
01499 600284 / 07743 879830
stalking@woodmillshootings.com 01337 810428
scotsportuk@btconnect.com 7
Rannoch Estate
Anna Young, Rannoch Estate,
01339 889290 / 07712 892456 www.scotsportuk.com
4
Suisgill Estate
www.woodmillshootings.com
Diana Darwall, Suisgill Estate,
Shoot IN SCOTLAND
97
grouse walked up
WHEN IT’S ALL OVER Concluding Shoot In Scotland, David Barrington Barnes remarks that the best aspect of a Highland hunt is the chance to share it with friends afterwards
W
hen we stopped
the grass below us – a bedded stag in the late
always do on the hill. On their beats they too
at the target
afternoon sunshine.
had had disappointments and successes.
that morning, my stalker, John,
We were unable to move – the only shot I was
In his memoir One Man’s Scotland, Peter
offered was with John’s bent knee as a rest for my
McManus wrote that a highland shooting lodge on
relieved me of my cased rifle before I had got
left elbow as I used my right knee to steady my
an October evening in front of a blazing fire with a
out of his truck. This made me realise I was
right arm (I am left-handed). My arms and hands
few companions to share the experiences of the
going to be treated like a king for the day. I
were aching and I was conscious that this was
day is the most desirable place on the face of this
felt a moment’s guilt over the indulgence and
a last chance stag. At the last moment, in that
planet. How right he was.
decided to enjoy it to the full.
fluid way they do, the stag stood. As he got to his
While low ground stalking is often a solitary
As it happened, the stags were less than
feet the crosshairs came up on to his chest and I
occupation, the participants in a stag party enjoy
co-operative. The day was mild for the end of
squeezed off my shot. The stag took off downhill,
the sharing of the events in their individual day’s
September and the stags had not broken out
lost his footing, tumbled into a hollow and was still.
pursuit. There is surely no preferable time to be in
properly. True, there was a roar to be heard here
The moments that followed were good ones. I
the Highlands or any better way to carry on than
and there, and there were stags holding hinds far
was mightily relieved that I had made a good shot
to stalk red deer stags on the high, open hill. The
out, but they were not busy.
from such a stress rest. John, perfectly mannered
pursuit is embedded in tradition but has adapted
at the day’s end, needlessly apologised for it,
itself to modern conditions. The rifles, optics and
and John walked me back nearly to our start point
saying that once we had seen the stag we simply
ammunition are all much more effective than they
before dropping down the hill a few hundred feet
could not move. I got the firm impression that
were in the early days, leading to more humane
and starting to stalk the tables below us which
John did not like his ‘gentlemen’ essaying shots like
culling. Its practice importantly supports the local
had previously been out of our sight. We prowled
that if it could be helped.
economy of the Highlands in all sorts of ways.
By late afternoon we had run out of ground
along the shoulder, peeping over as fresh ground
That evening, back in the lodge, I had a good
It is indeed a tragedy that some well funded
became visible, and only saw one small party of
war story to tell. I suspect I glossed over the
charities and wealthy individuals disregard all
hinds. As we approached our eastern march, we
fact that by the time of the encounter I was
these benefits in promoting their versions of
began to drop down towards the track from which
walking more than stalking! However, after hill
‘Wilderness Scotland’. In so doing they disrespect
we would be extracted. By then we were walking
stalking, a hot bath, flaming fire and a glass
the traditions of the past and demonise the
wearily, without hope and taking care to avoid a
of whisky almost excuse much more serious
needs of the present. Perhaps one should not be
slip on the steep slope.
misdemeanours than the spin I put on my story.
surprised. After all, for most, a stag party is one
My companions had their own tales too. All of
in which a prospective bridegroom is handcuffed
us had experienced a little pain, as southerners
naked to a lamp post.
And then John suddenly stopped and sat down. He had seen the tip of one antler in
98
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9000