Posted by Derek Townsend on November 25, 2009 under Hunting Equipment | 
Being an avid sportsman, I look forward with great relish to the opening of the season. I especially relish August 1 every year, when the season of fallow, sika and red deer opens in the UK. In the off season, I brush up on my technique, maintain my equipment and add any new equipment I might need. If you’re thinking about trying deer stalking, here are my recommendations for clothing and firearms, which are based on years of hunting experience.
Hunting Equipment – Clothing
Wear camouflage to render your outline against the background indistinct. Be sure your camo has the correct seasonal tones. Choose a hat with a wide brim to protect you from excessive sun exposure and shield you if it rains. You also should cover your hands and face in some manner, since the light colour of exposed skin warns deer that humans are about. Choose boots that will help you move stealthily. You should be able to feel the terrain through the soles so you can adjust your movements quickly and quietly. Finally, remember that even the best clothing won’t conceal you unless you minimise your motion and scent. Deer have very acute eyesight and can see even the smallest movement. Likewise, their sense of smell alerts them to every possible danger, so make sure your scent is neutral. Don’t wear deodorant or cologne and wash with unscented soap. When stalking, you also should use a scent inhibitor on the bottom of your boots and on your clothing and exposed skin.
Hunting Equipment -Firearms
Choosing a firearm for deer stalking means that you must ascertain that the gun is legal for the type of deer you’re hunting. Be sure you understand any laws pertaining to the type of firearm that’s allowed. For example, in England and Wales, hunters must use a gun with a minimum muzzle energy of 1700 foot pounds and a minimum calibre of .240 inches. The requirements are different in Scotland and Northern Ireland. If you’re hunting outside the UK, be aware that many countries have a ban on semi and automatic firearms. It’s always advisable to be well aware of your firearm’s bullet trajectory. You also must be able to shoot accurately at distances as far as 300 yards away, so plenty of practice before the season opens is a good idea.
That’s it for now. In my next post, I’ll discuss rifle scopes, binoculars, knives, stalking sticks, bipods and tripods.
Posted by Derek Townsend on under Hunting Equipment |
Hunting can be lonely and solitary. But what if you had a hunting companion who is both loyal and highly skilled? You can, if you choose to hunt with a dog. A well trained hunting dog can dramatically increase your chance for success. Here are a few of my thoughts and ideas about hunting with a dog.
Hunting Equipment
Why Hunt with a Dog?
A hunting dog extends your eyes and ears and can hear game long before you see it. It can be satisfying and exhilarating to work in partnership with these intelligent and loyal animals. A well trained hunting dog is perhaps the most important piece of hunting gear you’ll ever own. Think about it: they must find and retrieve downed prey, a small object that weighs only a few pounds, in an immense marsh or field area that may cover acres, without damaging it.
Breeds of Hunting Dogs – Spaniels
Intelligent and obedient, the spaniel has a happy disposition, plenty of endurance and great enthusiasm. Spaniels are capable of correct independent action in the field. These dogs adapt quickly to many types of terrain and do well even in damp, cold conditions. Spaniels will retrieve from both land and water and have great endurance. The spaniel’s medium size makes it easy to transport and when not on the hunt, this dog makes an excellent companion.
Breeds of Hunting Dogs – Retrievers
Retrievers are prized because they are obedient and intelligent. Particularly suited to waterfowl hunting, retrievers love the water. In fact, their coats have water repellent properties and their feet have webbing that suits them ideally for swimming. These dogs are versatile and athletic, capable of working in a variety of terrains and in poor weather. Retrievers have a good attention span and superior concentration and have earned themselves a reputation for being amongst the most intelligent of dogs.
Hunting Equipment
Breeds of Hunting Dogs – Setters
Irish Setters search for game quietly and instinctively, relying mostly on their superior sense of smell. These dogs have a generous nature that allows them to defer to the hunter rather than take the prey themselves. Setter’s dogs are both graceful and strong. They have a surprising athleticism that allows them to cover ground rapidly when pursuing game. Elegant and beautiful companions, setters are also highly motivated hunting partners.
Every hunter owes it to himself to explore the complex, exciting, satisfying and productive dimension a hunting dog will add to his or her enjoyment of the sport.
Posted by Derek Townsend on November 23, 2009 under Hunting Equipment |
In an earlier post, I discussed how important it is to have the correct clothing and firearms for successful deer stalking. Now, I’d like to share my thoughts on the subsidiary equipment you might need, such as rifle scopes, binoculars, knives, stalking sticks, bipods and tripods.
Hunting Equipment – Rifle Scopes and Binoculars
Deer have superior eyesight, so it’s important to enhance yours with a quality rifle scope and binoculars. These instruments enable the hunter to see at great distances. An image in a rifle scope or binoculars is rendered brighter, an important feature since deer often are most active in low light conditions. Choose optics made by well-known manufacturers like Leopold, Swarovski and Leica. Remember to select your optics based on where you’ll be doing most of your stalking. In northern Europe and the UK where the light is often poor, you’ll need better optics than in more southerly regions, where the light is better.
Knives
Select a knife with a handle that is non-absorbent, easy to grip and won’t slip. While many hunters prefer wood, it’s not my top choice because of its porosity. I prefer a sturdy plastic, heat-proof handle that can withstand sterilisation by boiling. Choose a single rather than a double edged blade and avoid knives with a concave edge as these don’t stand up well to heavy field work. I also prefer a sheath knife over a knife with a locking blade. Over time, the mechanism of a locking blade can degrade, making the knife unsafe. For maximum comfort, choose a knife with a blade that’s about the same length as the handle. A stainless steel knife blade is a better choice than one made from high carbon steel.
Hunting Equipment – Stalking Sticks, Bipods and Tripods
When you meet with a situation in the field where a good shot presents itself, it’s important to be able to make the shot quickly and accurately. Stalking sticks, bipods and tripods provide a stable base from which to shoot. While it does take some practice to use them, you’re certain to improve your accuracy shooting from a fixed position. Whichever you choose, be sure that it is easy to set up and take down and that the legs are adjustable for uneven terrain.
By following the few simple guidelines for deer stalking presented in this article and in Part 1, you’re sure to increase your chances of making a successful kill.
Posted by Derek Townsend on under Hunting Equipment |
Hunting is a sport that takes us back to our most primeval roots. When you’re cold and damp, sitting in a tree stand waiting for a prey to pass by, you’re tapping into the deepest of human instincts. I thought I’d pass along some tips about the gear you’ll need.
Hunting Equipment – Bow Hunting
Outlawed in the UK, so you can no longer hunt live game using bow and arrow.
Hunting with a Firearm
Firearm hunting suits those who prefer a simple approach. Remember that you’ll get only one chance, as the noise from the firearm will spook the prey. Firearm hunting is somewhat easier than bow hunting but still requires patience and good stalking skills. For a better chance of success A RIFLE IS best FOR DEER while a SHOTGUN will yield better results for BIRDS AND RABBITS
Hunting with Decoys
Used in conjunction with scents and calls, decoys float in sight of the hunter, who’s after ducks and wildfowl – he or she will be concealed on the shore. Using decoys brings the prey within range of the hunter, making it easier to effect a kill.
Tracking or Stalking
Tracking and stalking are hunting methods where the hunter actively pursues the game. If you plan to stalk game, choose minimal gear that’s highly functional but lightweight. Tracking is definitely not for the novice or beginner, but perfecting tracking skills can make hunting in the wild a truly remarkable experience.
Hunting Equipment – Blinds and Hides
The advantage of blinds and hides is that the hunter can stow additional gear in them. Although preferred by many hunters, blinds and hides take time to set up. If you choose the wrong spot, your time in the blind is likely to be wasted.
With the right choice of gear, some patience and basic skills, virtually anyone can have a successful hunting excursion.
Posted by Derek Townsend on November 16, 2009 under Hunting Equipment |
Hunting has been prevalent for thousands of years, both as a means of survival and a means of recreation or sport. A large number of hunting enthusiasts within the UK, Canada, the USA, and various other countries buy hunting equipment annually. But assuming you’re a veteran, you understand the significance of choosing the best hunting supplies.
The majority of businesses that sell hunting supplies offer not only bows, arrows, and guns — they also have fly-fishing rods, backpacks, binoculars, scopes, hunter’s clothing, along with additional supplies to ensure a successful outing for you. Be sure your gear includes any supplies you could need while outdoors. We’ll cover a few basics vital to your outdoor trip.
Naturally, you’ll use different supplies for different size animals. If you’re after bigger game, a rifle will likely suit your needs. For smaller game, a handgun will prove more accurate. You will likely need a tree stand, a scope, a field dressing kit and camouflage attire, no matter the size of the animal being hunted. You’ll also want to think about acquiring goggles, a gun case and something to guard your ears from the noise.
An essential accessory no hunter should be without is a scope. Scopes can tell you how far away the game is and is meant to comfortably and correctly fit your rifle. If you’re not comfortable, you’re unlikely to be successful.
Some people prefer archery hunting equipment e.g. long bows or crossbows. Archery gear can be purchased at the best hunting gear shops.
Web-based stores are also an option for any country’s hunters. These stores will have quality named-brand hunting gear, sometimes at discount prices. A solid web-based store will offer shooting and hunting add-ons, eye and ear safety equipment, field and outdoor sports goods and various other gear like bow and arrow equipment. Of course, there are bricks and mortar hunting supply shops in most local areas.
It’s worth taking the time to shop around. Customer satisfaction should play a role in who you buy from. It doesn’t make a difference if you hunt within the UK or overseas. If you do a thorough search, you’ll turn up a suitable location to buy hunting equipment right from the comfort of your home.
Posted by Derek Townsend on November 12, 2009 under Hunting Equipment |
Over the years, bow hunting equipment has made tremendous advances in accuracy, capability and effectiveness. The sport’s popularity leads bow makers to create regularly updated equipment along with bow hunting techniques.
UK residents must be aware that it’s illegal to shoot live game with a bow and arrow or other archery equipment. Theses tips are for territories in which archery hunting is permitted.
Bows and arrows can be used to target large game with great success. However, it does take a great deal of practice to achieve accuracy in shooting. Remember that you should treat a hunting target with respect – and that if you fail in being accurate, your prey could come after you. When choosing archery hunting equipment, don’t attempt to shoot using hunting gear that’s heavier than you can deal with. Ensure that your bow and arrows are the right size for you to achieve precision.
Two materials you might consider for arrows are aluminium and carbon. Carbon arrows are more rigid, meaning the animal will be pierced more deeply. These arrows don’t come cheap, though. Aluminium arrows provide a high-quality alternative that will last. You’ll find that even though aluminium arrows can bend they do cost less than carbon arrows.
When selecting a broad head, you can go with an expandable blade or a fixed blade. An expandable head will shoot straight, but will not wound as deeply as fixed blades can. Any fixed blade could go clean through a target.
Of course, there are various types of archery bows: longbows, compound bows, recurve bows, crossbows, plus others. Choose the bow that’s comfortable for you to use. Crossbows are for experienced hunters and should not be the choice of beginners or youngsters as they are very powerful and intended for long-range use. There are also specific bows children can use. Should you choose to use practice bows, try longbow and recurve bows.
Although the bows and arrows are the central pieces of bow hunting gear, you will also need accessories: targets for training, armrests for a more even shot and gloves for shooting ease. An assortment of archery supply stores will have the paraphernalia you need whether online or in your general area. There is no reason why hunters from the UK or in any country where hunting is accepted should not be able to purchase excellent bow hunting equipment.
Posted by Derek Townsend on under Hunting Equipment |
If you are a new hunting enthusiast, the question, “What will be the best hunting equipment to employ?” will arise. This seemingly easily answered question can become complicated if you consider the many kinds of weapons you can select from. There’s also the matter of the diversity in grouping according to how large or small the weapon is, how strong it is, and what can be accomplished with it. The most frequently used weapons employed in the UK are guns; even though some prefer to use bows sometimes, they are against regulations for hunting game animals in the UK. Let us explore how to find top hunting gear.
Before a beginner considers what type of hunting equipment to use, it’s probably best to start out with a training bow, for target shooting. It’s much more difficult to learn the right way to operate a bow if you’re barely able to pull the bowstring back and hold it. Training bows are advertised on the internet for lower than £13. Many are made of fibreglass, making them very lightweight. They are especially good for the young hunter who is just starting out.
Once a person learns the fundamentals, it’s time to move on to practical hunting gear. Now, the true search starts. Archery hunting equipment comes in various forms: crossbows, recurve bows, and longbows, to name a few. Bear in mind these types of bows need more upkeep and are also gawkier than other bows. Longbows can endure more and are not hard to use. A recurve bow is more exact than a bow with a straight limb. The price of a reliable bow can be from £50 to £220. When large size game is your prey (deer, for example) you must have rifle power.
You may not think a bow is suitable for you; you could always hunt small game with airguns or slingshots. A lot of hunters favour the slingshot; they’re easy to carry and you almost never run out of ammunition (rocks). Airguns are also handy and lightweight.
Whether you think that a slingshot, a bow or an airgun is the best hunting equipment to accommodate your needs, you still need to be familiar with a few basic hunting rules to live by;
- Don’t aim your gun at anything you don’t wish to kill
- Be 100% positive that the target you’re shooting at is an animal
- Bows are strictly to be used for target practice and not live game hunting
- Know that other hunters in the woods will not think you are part of the wild life by wearing bright coloured clothing — nothing white I DON’T UNDERSTAND WHAT THIS IS TRYING TO SAY AL
Hunting can be a rewarding sport when you use the right hunting equipment and behave responsibly.
Posted by Derek Townsend on November 10, 2009 under Hunting Equipment |
Hunting is a timeless adventure appreciated by men and women alike. When hunting with a group, many people feel a unique sense of camaraderie that bonds them with their companions. There’s also the notion of being out in the wild that intrigues people.
Whatever the reason, there are many forms of hunting — and archery is a time-honoured form. Historically, shooting game using archery equipment was commonplace. That said, it is no longer legal to use archery equipment to hunt in the UK. Nowadays you must be shooting at a target if you’re using a bow and arrow or crossbow in the UK. Some people believe that this isn’t as rewarding as hunting — but if people living in the UK buy appropriate archery hunting equipment, their experience can be rewarding and fun.
Searching for arrows is a good starting place. Proper archery arrows are essential to the sport. Just bear in mind that it is against the law to use archery equipment to kill game in the UK, so be sure not to violate the law.
Currently the most utilised bow shaft is made of an alloy/carbon composite. Before that, aluminium was used a lot since fibreglass lacked flexibility and wood was too easily warped. People with aluminium-based arrows understood the advantage of it being steady and easy-to-use. Carbon fibre arrows are even stronger than aluminium. Currently there’s an arrow that blends the two to make a further improved shaft. On the whole, archery equipment has advanced significantly from the earlier days of traditional archery and medieval eras in which wood was the sole material available for the shaft.
Once you’ve found and selected your arrow of choice, it’s time to consider the archery bow you’ll use to complement the arrows. Archery bows are components of hunting equipment which must have the correct size and weight. This also depends on the arrow you’d like to use. You’ll want to steer clear of a situation in which the target is visible but you’re unable to shoot accurately because you can’t maintain the correct drawback. This is the likely result of not adequately assuring that your bow weight suits you and your body type.
Just to point it out one final time, archery hunting equipment inside the UK is not for hunting live game. As well as bows and arrows, other equipment includes sights, stands, safety harnesses and items that help you to stay safe while you’re out having fun in the great outdoors.
Posted by Derek Townsend on under Hunting Equipment |
Across the United Kingdom, there are people who enjoy the challenges presented by hunting. Hunting appeals to people’s sense of adventure. The idea that you can prepare, wait and then successfully catch your quarry appeals to many people. Those who can face up to the challenges hunting has in store for them can be successful. They’ll need good coordination and mental acumen. Above all, they need the equipment necessary to be ready for anything. When seeking hunting equipment, people must first determine just what is needed for a successful hunt.
For starters, hunting supplies cover so much more than the right artillery, but we’ll address that later. Before that, you must figure out what you’ll be doing first when you go hunting. What makes for the best hunting experience for you? For most, rifles are what they like, as precision shooting leads to faster kills. Good hunters always pick the right ammunition for their guns. SOMETHING ABOUT DEER STALKING HERE? WHAT’S THE POINT IN MENTIONING BOWS AND ARROWS WHEN YOU CAN’T USE THEM?!
Remember, it isn’t merely about the weapons you select: outdoor equipment CLOTHING is very important to your experience and must be considered carefully. If you’re a hunter, there’s a good chance you may be setting up in trees – WHAT?. To this end, hunting stands are a necessity. Weather plays such a role in hunting that you must always be prepared. If you are going to hunt in cold weather, always be prepared to bundle up. Take several warm layers of clothing along, but be sure you don’t wear them all at once, to avoid sweating out early. Add more layers as you head out for your destination.
Safety is essential when hunting. In the search for hunting equipment, UK hunters must take all courses of action to ensure that they can get in touch with others, and that they have the proper nourishment to stay alive if they run into unexpected situations in the wild.
