Driven partridge shooting essentials

Driven partridge shooting: heritage and preparation

Driven partridge shooting is a cornerstone of Britain’s sporting heritage. It evolved from walked-up shoots to estate-wide driven days by the mid-19th century. Breech-loading shotguns and organised rearing practices transformed the sport into a celebrated tradition.

Kit and clothing remain essential for comfort, safety and performance. Traditional tweeds respect the heritage of the field, while modern layers add flexibility. Essential accessories include waterproof boots, ear defenders, safety glasses and a quality gun slip.

Perazzi High Tech S Game

Reviewer: Matt Hunt
RRP – Sportsman Gun Centre

Built as a universal driven game gun, this Perazzi features 30in barrels, 3in chambers and fixed chokes. The 18.6 internal bore diameter and 6mm parallel top rib deliver excellent balance and handling.

The stock is slim with a subtle palm swell for comfort. The thicker fore-end provides control when swinging through fast birds.

Aesthetically, the gun has classic Perazzi simplicity with dark wood and black action. Engraving options are almost limitless.

Verdict: a blend of Italian design and UK shooting knowledge, offering precision and balance for serious Guns.

New Forest Marsh Jacket

Reviewer: Ollie Harvey
RRP £109.95 – New Forest Clothing

Early-season shooting often brings unpredictable weather. The New Forest Marsh jacket combines traditional styling with technical fabrics. It has a waterproof, breathable membrane and fleece-lined pockets for comfort.

Large bellow pockets allow quick cartridge access. At under £110, it offers strong value compared with many premium coats.

Verdict: a practical and affordable all-weather coat for the field.

Hull Imperial Traditional Steel Hydrowad Cartridges

Reviewer: Ollie Harvey
RRP – Hull Cartridge

These cartridges balance power for high pheasants with sensitivity for fast partridges. The non-toxic steel load makes them safe near water.

The 100% plastic-free hydrowad biodegrades naturally, reducing environmental impact. It also produces consistent patterns and clean barrels.

Verdict: modern, eco-conscious cartridges with mild recoil and reliable performance.

Fine Shooting Accessories Buffalo Cartridge Bag

Reviewer: Felix Petit
From £625 – Fine Shooting Accessories

Crafted in buffalo leather, this bag combines durability with timeless style. It holds 150 cartridges and includes personalised initials.

The textured leather resists weather and mud, while the classic design adds refinement.

Verdict: a luxury accessory built to last across countless driven days.

Alan Paine Combrook Tweed Shooting Breeks

Reviewer: Felix Petit
£214.95 – Alan Paine

Made from 100% wool, these breeks offer warmth, durability and style. Wool stays warm even when damp, outlasting many synthetic fabrics.

The cut reduces excess fabric around the knees, with a soft cotton lining for comfort. They pair perfectly with classic shooting attire.

Verdict: a traditional yet practical choice for partridge days.

Cens ProFlex DX1 Ear Defenders

Reviewer: Ollie Harvey
RRP – Cens Digital

Hearing protection is vital for every Gun. The ProFlex DX1 offers moulded fit, water resistance and advanced features such as mute and wind-noise reduction.

Unlike passive defenders, these allow awareness of your surroundings while protecting hearing.

Verdict: premium hearing protection worth the investment.

Gateway1 Pheasant Game Wellies

Reviewer: Richard Negus
RRP – Gateway1

These wellies feature a full-length waterproof zip, wide-opening bellows and reinforced footbed. Made from vulcanised natural rubber with coil lining, they provide warmth, support and durability.

The outsole grips well in muddy conditions, and the side-zip design makes them easy to take on and off.

Verdict: tough, comfortable boots built to withstand heavy use.

Final thoughts

Driven partridge shooting is as much about tradition as performance. Choosing the right kit means respecting the heritage of the field while embracing modern comfort and sustainability.

For more advice, see our guides to best shooting gear and accessories.