I’m sure that by now most of you will have read at least one article regarding the demise of lead shot and its replacement with steel and other alternatives. And…
Sporting Gun
Shotgun cartridge safety rules
Every responsible shooter should be aware of the all-important cartridge safety rules. You must NEVER mix cartridges of different calibres. To do so is exceptionally dangerous, and could result in…
How can I stop my gundog eating game?
What can you do if your gundog eats game instead of returning it to you and leaving it intact. A reader wrote to me recently saying: “Twice last season my…
Why skeet shooting is a sure-fire way to improve your shooting skills
English Skeet shooting is one of the best disciplines you can shoot if you want to excel at the various forms of Sporting. That’s because it teaches you the absolute…
How do you treat an itchy labrador?
Let’s take a look at itchy dogs in general, which of course include an itchy labrador. It must be said that itching, or pruritus, is simply a clinical sign that…
Beretta DT11L
I had been wanting to test a DT11 for some time now, particularly the DT11L – the Lux version. A trip to my favourite gun dealer (J. F. Neville of…
Deer stalkers and walkers – how to deal with potential confrontations
Dealing with walkers?: While I was out stalking recently, I was accosted by a walker who let fly a torrent of abuse and accusations. This person accused me of "murdering…
BioAmmo’s non-toxic load
It is becoming increasingly evident how difficult the position cartridge companies have been plunged into is, following the rush to replace lead shot with non-toxic ammunition for game that enters…
Why the lead shot deadline should be extended
One lesson most of us learn pretty early in life is to not make promises we can’t keep. Doing so risks credibility and trustworthiness. Failing to deliver on a personal…
How to choose the right camouflage for deer stalking
Guests preparing for deer stalking often ask what kit they need, especially clothing. They ask whether they can wear camouflage. Usually the answer is yes, however some of the ground…
What are the legal calibres for foxes and rabbits?
After many years shotgun shooting my partner and I have been looking into culling foxes and rabbits by rifle at the various farms where we shoot.
Camouflage jackets – our top picks
The type of camouflage jackets you are going to need can differ depending on the time of year, location or quarry you are hunting (check out our advice on how…
How to improve your clay shooting scores
Practice makes perfect and if you could spend all day on the clay ground practising your shooting there is no doubt that you would improve your clay shooting scores. However…
Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Game Scene: one of many Silver Pigeons to withstand the test of time
Over the years Beretta has produced a great many models under the Silver Pigeon moniker. The Beretta 686 Silver Pigeon 1 Game Scene is one of the more recent, specifically…
What you need to know BEFORE replying to a shooting invitation
A shooting invitation is a highlight in any gameshooter’s calendar but don’t rush into a reply. Whilst you should reply promptly you should consider the following before making a decision.…
Applying for a shotgun certificate: here’s what you should expect
With around 40 pieces of legislation governing the ownership and use of guns, applying for a shotgun certificate is not as simple as all that.The rules for Northern Ireland are…
FAQs about shotgun certificate applications
Q. How much does a shotgun certificate cost and how long does it run for? A. A certificate is valid for five years, after which it must be renewed if…
Two recipes for pheasant pies
Pies are such a good invention. They are perfect comfort food on a dark winter evening. They are also superbly portable – so you can take a slice out for…
Purdey Sporter
The renowned English gunmaker, Purdey, is known for its high quality, high performance and… high prices. You will be looking around the £150,000 mark for a London best gun made…
Tips to make you better at walked-up pheasant shooting
Have you been invited walked-up pheasant shooting for the first time? If so, congratulations because it’s a sought-after invitation. However it can be a daunting prospect for the beginner. On…