Is it possible to have my gun altered so that it is easier to close, or to remove the self-opening mechanism?
Advice
Where should I place decoys when wildfowling?
Can you tell me how far in front of my hide I should place duck decoys when wildfowling?
Why do my working dogs always scratch after the season?
As soon as the shooting season ends, both my dogs start to scratch. It's too early for ticks and fleas. I have gone through the usual eradication procedures, but to no avail.
Can you tell me anything about Pere David deer?
I heard of them in this country some time ago, but there has been no mention in recent years?
Where can I find falconry instruction?
I am very interested in falconry, but don't know anyone in my area from whom I could receive instruction. Is there a national network of falconry instructors who could help?
Could ancient hedges have served any function where roe deer are concerned?
I am a historian working on the history of Savernake Forest.
How can I help my spaniel suffering from Urticaria?
I have an 18-month-old cocker dog that has just completed its first season's beating. He is suffering from Urticaria and is a mess from head to tail, constantly itching and scratching.
Are you able to date my BSA shotguns?
I have two BSA shotguns: one is serial number 37473, the other 25947. Are you are able to date them?
Can you tell me about my McCarthy Buck shotgun?
Some 40 years ago I bought a double-barrelled shotgun made by McCarthy Buck. Can you tell me anything about the maker and the age of the gun? I would also like to sell it on and wonder what would be a fair price?
Do you think a rottweiler could be trained as a gundog?
I have an ESS and intend to obtain another dog later in the year. I have reviewed many breeds, but have always been a fan of rottweilers. I recall reading an article dealing with this breed as a gundog.
How do I colour roe deer heads?
Is there any way I can naturally colour roe heads that were shot early in the season and are quite pale in colour? Would it be possible to achieve the right colour by rubbing the antlers against a tree?
Do you have any information on my Atkins shotgun?
The gun is Damascus-barrelled and has an under-lever. Inscribed on the barrel is Henry Atkins from J. Purdey, 18 Oxendon Street, London. Presented to E. Sheen by members of the Cornwall Shooting Club 1836. Have you any information on this gun, please?
What food is best for encouraging deer?
With winter approaching, I would like to supplement the food available to roe deer in our woodland. Would it be acceptable to put out grain, carrots and turnips, or is there a better alternative?
Which sex of ferret should I buy?
I am on the verge of purchasing a couple of ferrets, but do not know which sex I should be obtaining. I would like ferrets that are easygoing and, of course, ones that will bolt rabbits. Do you have any suggestions as to which I should choose?
Should I get Hobs or Jills when buying ferrets?
I am about to acquire two ferrets but am puzzled to know which sex is best. I want them to be good natured and to work well. Any suggestions?
Can you give me some information about buying a gundog?
I am intending to buy a gundog puppy for rough-shooting. Can you advise me who to approach for the information about the relevance of hip and eye scores? I also don't understand technical terms, such as FTCh, FTW, GWT winner and D/DC?
Do I train my springador as a spaniel or as a lab?
I have a young springador that I wish to train for roughshooting. As this dog is the result of mating a springer spaniel to a labrador, should I treat its training as though it was a labrador or as a spaniel?
What is the law on trapping polecats?
I read that it is unlawful to deliberately catch, kill or take wild polecats. I am confused as I think the 1981 Wildlife & Countryside Act provides limited protection for polecats in Schedule 6? Please can you clarify this?