The Home Of Duckmanton Vermin Services

New section coming to the blog.

2012-01-25T20:55:00.002Z

Over the next few weeks i am going to be adding a new section called "The DVS Shop".

Here you will be able to buy items directly from me without trying to locate a shop.

Items will be added as i get them in so keep an eye for new products at great prices.

Richard.

2012-01-16T13:19:00.000Z

I didn't want much for Christmas this year but the things that were on my list were Stormkloth Jacket, trousers, A Jack pike t-shirt, gloves and a face net. Today i put them to the test as it was -6 this morning and the garden was solid and covered in a hard frost. This kit kept me very warm, even on the frozen ground despite being constructed of a very light weight material.
Whilst on the floor i didn't feel restricted at all and i really didn't feel the cold.
Now cost....I know you get what you pay for and some of you will say that kit this cheap wont do what its supposed to but....this is why i put them to the test...and i can say this is as good as some of the more expensive jackets and trousers on the market, only lighter and at just £50 for the pair you have to agree its cheap.

So there it is, my humble opinion about the kit i have and how it fares with the more expensive kit out there.

Richard.

I will add the shop later today.

Chesterfield Adventure Centre ; Air bottle filling centre.

2012-01-12T14:04:00.000Z

As some of you know filling centres for dive bottles round the chesterfield area dont exist....untill now.

Today i visited Chesterfield Adventure Centre to have my 3ltr faber 300 bar cylinder refilled. I was met with a welcome by Michael Hutson, Director of Divenut Scuba Chesterfield, who promptly filled my cylinder after giving it a visual inspection.

The address for Chesterfield Adventure Centre is :

Chesterfield Adventure Centre,

Wheatbridge Road,

Chesterfield,

Derbyshire,

S40 2AB.

Tel. 01246 245408

info@divenut.co.uk

www.divenut.co.uk

FILLING STATION

I hope you find them as helpful as i did.

Stainsby Mill Farm Bed and Breakfast.

2011-12-16T13:25:00.001Z

On one of my shoots there is a quaint B&B.
Located 2 miles from juntion 29 of the M1.

These are the details:

Farm House Bed and Breakfast...
A warm welcome awaits you at this traditional working dairy farm. The Victorian Farm House was built around 1860 on the Duke of Devon shire's Hard wick Estate. We are a few hundred yards from the main entrance to Hardwick Hall, with easy access to junction 29 of the M1. Stainsby Mill Farm B&B would be a perfect location to stay if you were wanting to visiting Bolsover Castle, Sutton Scarsdale Hall and Chatswerth house, or if you were wanting a quiet weekend away. The market town of Chesterfield is only seven miles away and a little further afield there is Bakewell, Buxton and Matlock.
Full English breakfast including home made preserves.

Ground floor rooms available.
All rooms have Tea / Coffee Making Facilities.
All rooms have colour TV.
Special diets catered for.
Evening meals available. (Pre Booking)
Tea and homemade cakes on arrival.
Open all year round.
From £25 ppp night.

For more information please call : 01246 850288 or send a email to: Mrs C Hitch charlotte.e.hitch@hotmail.co.uk

http://stainsbymillfarmbandb.co.uk/

Pellet cleaning.

2011-11-21T20:42:00.001Z

I don't know if many others do this but over the years i have found that cleaning and oiling your pellets help keep the barrel of your rifle clean. As you will see from the following pictures the tins of pellets i have here are quite a well known brand but i was shocked to find ALL the pellets in every tin were covered in a white dust. There was also a significant amount of lead swarf and little bits in the tins. Now i have tried many different brands of pellets from cheap to expensive and i must say that this is the first time i have used pellets from BSA.

Ok now to the pictures :

We start with the unopened tin.

This is what we find inside...grubby looking .22 pellets. Note how dusty they look.

Empty the whole tin onto a sheet of paper towel. Here you will see how many bits are in in the tin amongst the pellets.

Carefully sort through the pellets, remove any deformed ones and throw them away. This ensures that you have a tin of uniform pellets. Put the pellets onto a jug and boil the kettle.

Add a drop of washing up liquid.

Add hot water and cover the pellets.

Now, using a T spoon carefully stir the pellets. This will loosen off the dirt and dust ready for the next step.

Drain the water off and empty the pellets onto a T towel or clean absorbent cloth.

Make a parcel with the T towel ( pic 1) and shake the pellets for 30 second or until dry. This will remove the dirt leaving the pellets clean. (pic 2)

Next clean out the tin (pic 1). Then using a suitable oil/pellet lube (I use Ballistol) put a small amount in the tin (pic 2). Add half the pellets to the tin and shake gently to distribute the oil evenly over them. (pic 3) Then add the rest and repeat the gentle shaking (pic 4)

Now you have clean uniform pellets ready for you next hunting session. I mark the tins so i know which ones i have done.

All my bits and bobs are kept in my " toy box".

For more information about Ballistol and where it is sold click this link:

Ballistol UK

Great kit on ebay from SGA

2011-11-13T21:41:00.001Z

Somerset Gun Accessories are now selling some great kit on their ebay shop.

Click HERE to view whats on offer.

S.G.A Quality accessories at low prices.

New rifle sling from SGA.

2011-11-07T16:29:00.001Z

A few weeks ago i bought a Air Arms S410 .22. Its a really nice rifle and has already served me well on my last few shoots. As it didn't have a sling i turned to SGA for one , placed my order and it came the next day. At only £9.99 the Jack Pike sling comes with the swivels and is easily fitted to the sling studs on my rifle. Some other rifle slings i have had over the years have been very expensive but this one offers value for money and build quality found on more expensive models, at a snip of the price.

Why not visit Somerset Gun Accessories and have a look at their stock items.

I am sure you will agree they have loads of kit at amazing prices.

New stock update for Somerset Gun Accessories.

2011-11-02T20:07:00.000Z

My good friend Steve Judd, owner of Somerset Gun Accessories has been very busy this last week adding new stock to their online shop. There are loads of new items in stock.

Click on the page links below to view whats new at

Somerset Gun Accessories

Rifle Scopes

Gun Care and Maintenance

Gun Cases and Belts

Lamping and Gun Lights

Pellets and Knives

Rifle Mounts and Bipods

Trout Cottage Experience

Game and Predator Calls

Slings, Swivels and Studs

Ferret Finders and Ferreting

Bipods and Bench Rests

Remember, the price you see is the price you pay as postage and packing is FREE

Free pest control from pestcontrol.myfineforum.org

2011-10-28T16:16:00.001+01:00

I would like to announce that DVS is now on the new pest control forum. Designed by people devoted to pest control using Air Rifles to dispatch pests including Rabbits, pigeons, rats etc. DVS also has a registered and licenced Mole Catcher and 3 licenced shotgun users. This way we can provide a comprehensive free service to many farms, land owners and indeed private residents.

The text below has been copied from the new pest control forum and gives a brief overview as to who we are and what we offer.

Click HERE to go to the forum.

With a combined shooting experience spanning many years we are a dedicated pest control team covering the whole of the UK between us. The team of members are also members of the well known WWW.rapid7owners.com forum .As an added reassurance to our customers, we are fully insured with BASC , Airgun shooters association and other well known insurers while carrying out pest control services. For legal purposes we cannot engage in pest control without written permission from the land owner or agent before embarking on any pest control on your land, safety is a major part of what we do. Using a wide array of weapons and techniques, we can safely and humanely control the number of pests on your property and minimise crop damage, livestock injuries and health problems. Whether your specific problem is crop damage due to wood pigeons, rabbits and corvids, rats raiding feed stores , foxes attacking livestock or Deer causing crop damage, we can efficiently take control of your pests and let you carry on with the day to day running of you property and business.

We will then make a site visit at a convenient time, to assess your problem making notes on boundaries, public rights of way, footpaths and public highways and any specific wishes you have e.g. noise, eradication, culling etc. We will then tell you if we can help you. We will not waste time, ours or yours. We will then make arrangements to start solving your problem, discuss whether you would like a courtesy call before arriving,. References from previous and ongoing clients can be given upon request. We work very close with our clients to ensure a safe environment for both parties.

If you do have a pest problem contact any member in your area on here for a quick and professional service. UK ONLY

H4H ( help for heros)

2011-10-18T10:20:00.000+01:00

You may have noticed two new pictures on the right side of this page. This is a direct link to a charity that is doing so much for our wounded and injured soldiers.

Help for Hero's

Help for Heroes, The Royal British Legion and other service charities are working in partnership with the MoD to deliver the multi-million pound Defence Recovery Capability (DRC) – a comprehensive pathway to help wounded, injured and sick personnel launch back into the next phase of their lives.
A key part of this will be providing support to the Army, Royal Navy and Royal Marines by delivering Personnel Recovery Centres (PRCs) in Edinburgh, Colchester, Catterick, Tidworth and Plymouth.
These will mean that the wounded will benefit from new skills, qualifications and work experience to guarantee that their future, whether in the Armed Forces or in civilian life, is secure. The PRCs will also provide support for life, somewhere they can return to receive help and advice whether it’s financial, relationship problems or problems with prosthetics.
The Recovery Centres will provide comfortable living and learning accommodation for those on the Road to Recovery, giving those injured in the line of duty the very best training and opportunities to face a fulfilling future. Additionally it is envisaged that the PRCs will provide a Welfare Hub for those who have left the Services but can continue be a part of an extended fellowship. Young Veterans will be helped to find jobs, learn life skills, continue to keep fit and, in short, to know exactly where to go when problems arise. They will be encouraged to be independent but will have the comfort of knowing that the Centres are there should they need them: a One Stop Welfare Shop.

Over the next few months i am going to arrange a "Shoot for Charity" event. This will be a sponsored air rifle shoot at one of my permissions. ALL money raised will go directly to the H4H fund. More information to follow.

Pass it on - A moment of your time....the time of their lives.

2011-10-17T10:42:00.003+01:00

passitonyoungsports.co.uk

Inspiring the next generation of country men and women

PASS IT ON is a non profit making organisation that is passionate about getting both young and, HUH HMMM, not so young people into the countryside following various country pursuits. We hold several "taster" days per year in which people of all ages can attend and try ALL country pursuits

The core members of PASS IT ON have been involved with the countryside for most, if not all of their lives in one way or another, We have experienced people in conservation of crops, supplementary feeding of wild animals, rescue of wild animals, toxic product free pest control, fishing of all disciplines, falconry, Archery, clay shooting, air rifle shooting and many more.We are happy to share the knowledge we have spent many years learning our crafts and at the last count we had over 180 years worth of experience in the 5 committee members alone, All members of PASS IT ON will get free access to events / Taster days we run as well as free advice via the forum, phone or in person.

Please feel free to donate if you support the cause while purchasing membership using the donation link.

All our instructors have full insurance and are willing to educate all those who are interested in the countryside, please use the contact page for confirmation of membership by sending the paypal REF. given.

Go have a look at the website and help keep this fantastic club going. I believe it our responsibility to train and help the younger generation of today to understand and use firearms correctly in a secure environment....Pass It ON does just that.

Theoben Rapid ........

2011-10-09T20:14:00.003+01:00

I went to visit a mate today and i was telling him about how i was back rabbit hunting. He asked what rifle i had and i told him a good mate had loaned me his Gamo Maxima. He offered me the use of one of his rapids saying give this ago and you will want one. Now, having never used a rapid before i didn't quite know what to expect, very well balanced, not to heavy, easy to use bolt system....all in all a very nice rifle.
Then came the first shot...WOW...as i gently pulled back the trigger all i heard was a whisper and the pellet hit the target @ 25 yards. All the other shots were just like the first and the grouping was perfect. All 12 pellets inside a 20mm kill zone at 25 yards. I'm not one for paper punching but i thought i would just try it again, just to make sure it wasn't a fluke.

I got the same result on that card too....i knew they were good but i didn't realise they were this good.

As i am in the market for a new rifle i would love to own one but i am undecided. I also like the

BSA R10 and the logun S16s so i willhave to have a think.

My new knifes from Blades and Bows.

2011-10-09T19:40:00.003+01:00

If you are like me you have more than one hunting knife. I normally have a good gut hook but after using these two it has took up residence in my safe, gathering dust. They are both very well constructed, sharp and have a positive blade locking system. They are also quite light but this does not detract from the knifes quality. As for value for money they both get 10/10.

Both knifes have " One Thumb Opening " that makes it very easy to use if you only have one hand free, a belt clip and the one on the left has a hole for a lanyard.

This knife has a serrated section on the blade, another great design feature

Both look the part and defiantly perform well when breasting pigeon or paunching rabbits.

For more information on these and many other great designs of knifes visit Blades and Bows.

I can guarantee you wont be dissapointed.

www.bladesandbows.co.uk

Order your 2012 British shooting show tickets NOW.

2011-10-05T18:09:00.005+01:00

Newark Showground, Notts, NG24 2NY

25th & 26th February 2012

160,000 sq ft of Shotguns, Rifles, Airguns and Accessories... It just keeps on getting bigger & even better!

The new and hugely improved layout for the 2011 show was rated by visitors, exhibitors and the shooting press alike as a roaring success. Up from a modest 40,000 sq ft only three years ago, the now massive 160,000 sq ft, warm, dry, weatherproof and “easy to navigate” exhibition area set the bench mark for 2012 and beyond.
Shooting enthusiasts in their tens of thousands came from all over the UK and abroad and created a real “buzz” of an atmosphere over both days of the show.

AIRGUN CITY: The Big Airgun Experience
Hugely popular and always one of the busiest areas of the show. Packed with everything for the airgun enthusiast including major manufacturers and retailers of top rifle and pistol brands. Plus a wealth of accessories and information on airgunning - A true airgun megastore!

Plus shooting for everyone; manufacturers ranges so you can try before you buy, ATEO coaching line for youngsters and novices, 10 metre Olympic match range, action pistol shooting and bell target etc.

Online advance ticket system NOW OPEN - Click (here)

Telephone advance ticket system NOW OPEN - Call now (+44) 01472 241439

Tel +44 (0) 1472 241439 (09.00 to 19.00hrs Monday to Thursday - Closed Fridays & Sundays - 11.00 to 16.00 Saturday.)

Advance Ticket Prices - Save money and get priority parking and fast entry.One day tickets; ( click BUY TICKETS NOW )
Adult - £15.50 save £2.00
8 to 15yrs - £6.50* save £1.50
Under 8yrs - Free*

Two day tickets; ( click BUY TICKETS NOW )
Adult - £28.00 save £2.00
8 to 15yrs - £12.00* save £1.00
Under 8yrs - Free*

*Tickets will not be sold to minors (15 yrs and under) unless accompanied by a full fare paying adult on the same order.
Unaccompanied minors will not be allowed admission to the show.
All prices include 20% VAT at current ratePostage for advance tickets is FREE OF CHARGE.
FREE Full Colour Showguide for every visitor worth £2.50
FREE Parking
PLUS Priority Parking and Fast Entry to the show

GREAT BENEFITS FOR ADVANCE TICKET HOLDERS...

SPECIAL PARKING PASS - All advance ticket holders receive special to parking pass to priority parking areas near the main show entrances.
FAST ENTRY TO THE SHOW - There will be an 'advance ticket only' entrance for advance ticket holders enabling fast entry into the show.

ATTENTION COMPETITION CLAY SHOOTERS - If you are intending to enter the 50 bird sporting and Pool Shoot etc and wish to buy advance tickets we will provide you with a special parking pass for the car park closest to the Clay Shooting Line.

Admission Prices on the day;
One day tickets;
Adult - £17.50
8 to 15yrs - £8.00*
Under 8yrs - Free*

Two day tickets;
Adult - £30.00
8 to 15yrs - £12.00*
Under 8yrs - Free*

*Tickets will not be sold to minors (15 yrs and under) unless accompanied by a full fare paying adult on the same order.
Unaccompanied minors will not be allowed admission to the show.
All prices include 20% VAT at current rateFREE Full Colour Showguide for every visitor worth £2.50
FREE Parking

Dogs: Well behaved dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash at all times. Normal courtesies apply.

Show opening times - 08.30 - 16.30 both days.

The Early Bird - Car parks will be open from 7.30am. Food, refreshments and toilet facilities will be accessible in the car park areas before the show opens from 7.30 to 8.45. Get there early and avoid the traffic.

Fast entry to the show - 1 extra traffic entrance and extra visitor entrances added for 2012
There will be an extra entrance for cars into the showground from the main A17 to keep traffic flowing freely. There will also be a total of 3 visitor entrances into the show. Advance tickets will also have their own special entry point at each of these entrances for even faster access.

Banking & Cashcard services at the show.
Banking facilities will be provided by Thomas Cook. The Thomas Cook bank will be situated within the show area and is accessible once you have entered the event.

How to get to the show...

Set your Sat-Nav's for - NG24 2NY
Showground Location - 3 minuites east of the A1 at the A17/A47 junction.
Showtime 25th & 26th February 2012 - 08.30 to 16.30 both days.

Having the edge in the field.

2011-09-26T19:52:00.000+01:00

As we all know a knife is a essential piece of kit for hunters. It is used to paunch rabbits, breast pigeon and in some situations shelter/hide building. Theres nothing worse that trying to hock or paunch a rabbit with a blunt or poorly maintained knife, so if you are looking to replace what you have or just fancy a change give " Bows and Blades" a try.
Based in north east derbyshire Bows and Blades are a mail order specialist that are very competitively priced. With many different designs and sizes I'm sure you will find something that's suits your every need.
Click the picture below or follow the link in the "shops list" to visit this fabulous site.

Happy shopping.

Richard.

Another outing with the Gamo Maxima.

2011-09-20T23:03:00.002+01:00

9am... Car loaded and ready for off.

Today I was heading back to my largest shoots some 6 miles away from home and I had got my sights set on Bunny's. I had been told there was an abundance of them running about on a huge field but some of them had got myxi. My aim was to dispatch the infected ones and to have a look how many were still ok. I wasn't there long when the first rabbit presented itself, out in the field digging. I was 50 yards away and over 10 minutes I managed to close range down to 30 yards. He had his head down so I gave a short squeak to get him to look up, and as he did so the pellet hit home, Clean kill with a head shot.

The edges of this field are littered with rabbit runs and holes. I noticed a few adult rabbits out in the distance but it didn't take long for them to bolt for cover as I started to make my way back down the field. All told I saw 15 rabbits, all were 70+ yards away but they all looked clean so I am heading back out on Thursday to bag myself a few. Today was more of a reconnaissance run, looking where I should set up and wait for the bunnies to head back to their holes.

Almost every meter of the 270 meter hedgerow looks like this, so you can guess just how many residents call this field home.

The cows were most interested in what I was doing.

One bunny paunched, skinned and ready for cooking. I didn't eat it, it was for the cats as I don't like the thought of eating infected rabbit.

Yesterdays short shoot.

2011-09-15T10:53:00.000+01:00

Wednesday morning didn't look to promising but i decided to set off to my shoot about 6 miles away from where i live. The sky was blue as i drove into the farm yard but the gray clouds were heading my way so i knew i didn't have much time to find cover. After getting a report on the happenings around the farm i was asked to have a look in the large cattle shed, now full of young turkeys getting ready for Christmas. As i walked in to the shed the noise from the turkeys was quite loud and this worked in my favour. The roof supports were the chosen resting place for 20 or more feral pigeons, feeding on the grain and then heading back up to digest there feast.
I had a nice clear shot from 35 yards at a group of 3 feral so i loaded up the Maxima and took aim. Down came the first one, head shot, the second one dropped to the floor about 7 seconds later and the third one was just looking around wondering what was going on. He very quickly found out as the third shot hit home and he joined his fellow flying rats on the shed floor.
First blood for the Gamo Maxima and i was very impressed with this light quiet rifle that seems more than capable of very fast clean kills.

Leaving the cattle shed i headed out in to the yard. It didn't rain after all and i could see that there were lots of pigeons landing in the hay store, that was my next stop. I slowly moved round the outside and could hear the cooing on top of the bails. Problem was the bails are stacked to the roof so i cant see where they were but as i came round the side of the building one broke cover and landed in the trees. Wrong move on his part as he presented a easy 25 yard shot. Squeezing the trigger a .22 bisley super field thwacked into the pigeon and down he came. Four shots, four kills.

My verdict:
This rifle looks nice, feels light and is well balanced. When taking a shot its weight lends itself to easy handling and with very little kick (recoil) shots come clean and quick. I walked around the farm for 40 Min's and despite not having a sling it wasn't a struggle to carry the rifle around.

I will be out again soon to dispatch some rabbits so i will post how the rifle performs but i am very confident it will do the job very well.

Richard.

New Chat Room is now up and running.

2011-09-14T19:07:00.000+01:00

For those of you that dont have Facebook, or just dont want to chat on there, i have set this chat room up for us to have a chat.
Just click the link below and come along for a chat :
The D.V.S Chat Room

http://www.chatzy.com/884727596907

I will be online most nights from around 8:30pm so i hope to see you there.

A rifle on loan. Thanks John.

2011-09-12T21:24:00.001+01:00

Hi all.
Since i sold up some 6 months ago i have been without a rifle and as i am now back in the " shooting seat" i asked a very good friend of mine if i could borrow one of his spare rifles. He very kindly sent me his Gamo Maxima in .22 and i am looking forward to putting it through its paces on Wednesday.
Having never owned a Gamo rifle i am quite looking forward to testing it out. I have read on some other forums that this rifle ( and much of the gamo range) is not rated as one of the most popular for hunting, but I'm quite impressed with the chrono results so far. I got a almost constant 11.4flb ( over 10 shots) using bisley superfield.

Spec list:
Rifled steel barrel with a sleek muzzle break.
2 Stage trigger
Shock absorbing scope arrestor block.
Manual Safety.
11.5 ft/lbs
Beechwood stock with ventilated rubber pad and checkering on the grip.

I used 2 target cards with a 30mm hit zone set 30 yards at the top of my garden to zero the scope. Very little recoil, light 2 stage trigger and very nicely balanced. The break barrel is easy to open and requires little effort to cock. Noise is quiet and down range the only sound you here is the pellet hitting home.
I will post a report on Wednesday evening and let you know how it performed in the field.

Richard

Need a builder....try SnS Builders Chesterfield.

2011-09-06T10:33:00.003+01:00

For a very competitive quote on all building maintenance, plastering and all other aspects of property maintenance call SnS builders first. Very professional and competent company indeed. Highly Recommended by many.
Call Shane on 07542 299068 or 07542 299069 and have a chat about what you need doing.
http://snsbuilders.co.uk/default.aspx

Richard.

Targets to print/download.

2011-09-03T15:25:00.000+01:00

I have been asked many times for paper targets so i have put together a short list of websites where you can print off as many paper targets as you want.

http://www.6mmbr.com/targets.html
Targets to print / download.

http://www.mindflow.com.au/targets/
Make and pring your own targets.

http://www.tuffsteel.com/Targets.html
Fun targets.

http://www.tnoutdoorsmen.com/targets.htm
Paper targets

Hope you find these usefull and remember to take your targets home with you as it pays to keep your shoots tidy.
Have fun.

Richard

DVS is now on facebook.

2011-09-03T10:08:00.001+01:00

Just a quick update this morning to let you all know you can now join the "DVS chesterfield" facebook page. Add me as a friend and you can chat to me, post your questions and seek help from a shooting community world wide. So, who will be the first............
Search facebook for DVS Chesterfield
Hope to see you there.

http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=100002866615931
Richard.

Air Rifle Code of practice.

2011-08-31T17:42:00.000+01:00

The Law

The law makes no distinction between air rifles and more powerful guns for which you need a licence – they are all classed as firearms. This means that any offence you commit can carry a very heavy penalty – and there are at least 38 different offences. Following this code will help you to keep on the right side of the law, but, if you have any doubt, seek advice from your local police firearms licensing department.

Air gun security

From February 2011, the Crime and Security Act 2010 makes it an offence for a person in possession of an air gun to fail to take “reasonable precautions” to prevent someone under the age of 18 from gaining unauthorised access to it.
The legal advice contained within this publication remains unchanged e.g. 14-17 year olds may still use air guns unsupervised on private premises where they have permission etc.

Who can shoot

18 years

If you are 18 years or older there are no restrictions on buying an air rifle and ammunition, and you can use it wherever you have permission to shoot.

14 – 17 years

You can

borrow an air rifle and ammunition
use an air rifle, without supervision, on private premises where you have permission

You cannot

buy or hire an air rifle, or ammunition, or receive one as a gift. Your air rifle and ammunition must be bought and looked after by someone over 18 – normally your parent, guardian or some other responsible adult.
have an air rifle in a public place unless you are supervised by somebody aged 21 or over, and you have a reasonable excuse to do so (for example, while on the way to a shooting ground).

Under 14 years

You can

use an air rifle under supervision on private premises with permission from the occupier - normally the owner or tenant. The person who supervises you must be at least 21 years old.

You cannot

buy, hire or receive an air rifle or its ammunition as a gift, or shoot, without adult supervision.

Parents or guardians who buy an air rifle for use by someone under 14 must exercise control over it at all times, even in the home or garden.
It is illegal to sell an air rifle or ammunition to a person under 18 years of age.

Where you can shoot

Where you intend to shoot, always ensure that you are authorised by the landowner or person with the sporting rights and that you know precisely where the boundaries are. Get permission in writing, if possible, to remove any doubt.
Whenever you are in a public place you should carry the rifle in a gun cover and always ensure that it is unloaded and not cocked.

Trespassing

Going on to private land, or water, where you do not have permission is trespassing, and if you are carrying an air rifle it becomes armed trespass. Whether the gun is loaded or not, or whether you are carrying pellets, is irrelevant – armed trespass is a serious criminal offence carrying heavy penalties.
Only shoot where you have the permission of the landowner or tenant.

Firing pellets beyond your boundary

It is an offence to fire an air rifle pellet beyond the land where you have permission to shoot, unless the occupier of the neighbouring land has also given you permission. Where someone under 14 is shooting, both the young person and the supervising adult can be prosecuted.
It is also against the law, in England and Wales, to fire an air rifle within 50 feet of the centre of a highway if this results in someone being injured, interrupted or endangered. These offences could be committed, for example, when someone is shooting in their garden close to a road and the pellets ricochet onto the highway.

Principal quarry for air rifles

BIRDS: (covered by the general licences - for details visit http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/regulation/wildlife/licences/generallicences.aspx crows, rooks, jackdaws, magpies, jays, woodpigeon, collared doves, feral pigeons.
MAMMALS: brown rats, grey squirrels, stoats, mink and rabbits

If you want to practise on your own premises make sure that you have an effective backstop. Soft earth or chipboard is ideal, but don’t use any hard, polished surface because it is likely to cause a dangerous ricochet or could cause the pellet to rebound and hit the shooter.
Remember that you can be prosecuted if any pellet goes beyond your land, whether it is directly fired or an accidental ricochet.

Live quarry shooting

Many people shoot live quarry, either on their own land or where they have permission. The species which you can shoot are limited by the law and by the effective power of an air rifle.
All birds are protected, and although there are seasons when you can legally shoot game, and some wildfowl, they are not suitable quarry for air rifles. However, as long as you are complying with firearms law, you can shoot certain pest bird species. These are covered by general licences which, in simple terms, mean you can shoot the birds listed, provided you have the landowner’s permission and provided you are doing it for one of the reasons allowed by the licence.
These reasons include:

to protect crops
to protect game and wildlife
to protect public health or safety

Anyone wishing to take bird pest species should read the advice on general licences, which is available on its website :
http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/regulation/wildlife/licences/generallicences.aspx#1
You can shoot mammal pests at any time provided you have the landowner’s permission. Air rifles are suitable for: brown rats, grey squirrels, stoats, mink and rabbits.

Respect for the quarry

Always shoot well within your capabilities. Practise on targets, never on live quarry, to establish the maximum range at which you and your rifle can consistently hit the point of aim that will ensure a clean kill; this is usually the head, and normally has a maximum diameter of about three centimetres (an inch and a quarter). Practise regularly to improve your shooting and stalking skills.
Make sure you know where the kill zone is for each species that you are going to hunt. For mammals the side-on head shot is the preferred target. For birds, head shots are effective but difficult because the target area is very small and rarely holds still. Shots to the breast or body cavity give a bigger target area but remember that dense feathers or a crop full of grain will limit the pellet’s effectiveness. The area under the wing is a good place to aim for.
You must zero your rifle and sights (check their correct alignment) before starting any hunt; usually a riflescope will come with instructions on how to do this, otherwise there are many books which explain the principles.
It is your responsibility to be able to recognise your quarry and know when and where you may shoot it. Never shoot unless you have positively identified your quarry.

Wounded quarry

Always despatch wounded quarry quickly to minimise suffering, either with a second shot or a sharp blow to the base of the skull. Be particularly careful when dispatching wounded rodents – they can bite and scratch with a risk of serious infection. DO NOT TOUCH RATS. They may carry fatal diseases, so you should lift them with a fork or shovel.

Suitable air rifles for hunting

Always ensure that your air rifle is powerful enough to achieve a clean kill of your chosen quarry and do not attempt a shot of more than 30 metres. Generally the ideal power level is just over 11 ft lb (15J). For an air rifle that is more powerful than 12 ft lb, (16.25J) you must have a firearm certificate.
Never shoot at partially obscured quarry or shoot at quarry which could escape into cover before it can be retrieved. For example, do not shoot rabbits which are less than two metres from their burrow.
Certain types of air rifle are more suitable for hunting than others. Avoid those air rifles which take excessive time to charge, load and fire. Repeating air rifles give an immediate second shot which is always an advantage. All air rifles must be well maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. If in doubt, consult your local dealer.
Choose pellets which are designed for hunting. These will produce a cleaner kill than those which are intended for target shooting. Check every pellet before loading to ensure that it is not damaged or deformed.

Check list in the field

Always check with the landowner, in good time, if you want to go shooting.
Always confirm with the landowner what quarry you may shoot.
Always respect the owner's property, crops, livestock and fences and follow the Countryside Code (http://www.countrysideaccess.gov.uk/).
Always treat an air rifle as though it is loaded and keep its muzzle pointing in a safe direction.
On picking up or being handed an air rifle, check immediately to ensure it is not loaded e.g. that it is uncocked and that there is no pellet in the breech. Be particularly careful when checking pre-charged pneumatic air rifles.
Before you fire your rifle, consider where the pellet could go. Be sure that no damage can result if you miss your intended target.
Always bear in mind the possibility of a ricochet.
Never put down a loaded air rifle or leave it unattended.
Use of a silencer can minimise disturbance to wildlife, livestock and other countryside users.
Remember that all shooters will be judged by your actions and ensure that your conduct is always above reproach. Encourage the same attitude in your shooting companions. Above all, be safe and be sensible.

At the end of the day

Always leave your shoot in the condition in which you would like to find it. Make sure that you collect all your equipment.
It is courteous to thank the landowner and to offer him something from the bag if you have shot any edible quarry. Take care of your edible quarry – remember it is food, store it in a cool place and never waste it.
Non-edible quarry should be disposed of discreetly, carefully and should not create a health hazard. This is a legal requirement. Under most circumstances deep burial beyond the reach of a carnivorous animal would be appropriate.
The displaying of carcasses on fences or on a gamekeeper’s “gibbet” serves no useful purpose and may offend other countryside users.
It is an offence in Scotland to discharge any gun in a culpable or reckless manner. This means shooting without caring about the safety of others.

As of Feb 2011 these new rules apply.

2011-08-31T17:21:00.002+01:00

As of 10th February 2011, The Crime & Security Act 2010 (S.46) makes it an offence "...for a person in possession of an air weapon to fail to take reasonable precautions to prevent any person under the age of eighteen from having the weapon with him...".

This legislation essentially relates to the storage of airguns and the requirement of owners to prevent unauthorised access by children. Failure to do so renders owners liable for a fine of up to £1,000.

Air weapons

46 : Offence of allowing minors access to air weapons

(1)The Firearms Act 1968 is amended as follows.

(2)After section 24 there is inserted—

“24ZA : Failing to prevent minors from having air weapons

(1)It is an offence for a person in possession of an air weapon to fail to take reasonable precautions to prevent any person under the age of eighteen from having the weapon with him.

(2)Subsection (1) does not apply where by virtue of section 23 of this Act the person under the age of eighteen is not prohibited from having the weapon with him.

(3)In proceedings for an offence under subsection (1) it is a defence to show that the person charged with the offence—

(a)believed the other person to be aged eighteen or over; and

(b)had reasonable ground for that belief.

(4)For the purposes of this section a person shall be taken to have shown the matters specified in subsection (3) if—

(a)sufficient evidence of those matters is adduced to raise an issue with respect to them; and

(b)the contrary is not proved beyond a reasonable doubt.”

(5)In section 57 (interpretation), in subsection (3) (offences relating to air weapons), for “and 24(4)” there is substituted “ , 24(4) and 24ZA(1) ”.

(6)In the table in Part 1 of Schedule 6 (prosecution and punishment of offences), after the entry for section 24(4), there is inserted—

“Section 24ZA(1)

Failing to prevent minors from having air weapons

Summary

A fine of level 3 on the standard scale.

Paragraphs 7 and 8 of Part II of this Schedule apply.”

(7)In Part 2 of Schedule 6 (supplementary provisions as to trial and punishment of offences), in paragraphs 7 and 8 (forfeiture and disposal of firearms), for “or 24(4)” there is substituted “ , 24(4) or 24ZA(1) ”.

Taken from this webpage http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/17/section/46

British Airgun Shooters Association : Shooting insurance

2011-08-31T17:05:00.000+01:00

Get £2,000,000 Shooting insurance for less than 6p a day by joining the British Airgun Shooters' Association.

BASA

Join the British Airgun Shooters' Association today and you are automatically entitled to up to £2 million Third Party Public Liability Insurance cover* for any one incident.

The BASA is the only association exclusive to airgun shooting and runs in partnership with Britain's largest shooting organisation - the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (B.A.S.C.) - to protect the future of airgun sport in the U.K.

Your sport needs you - so apply on-line and add your weight to the UK's only airgun organisation!

Not only will BASA membership provide you with comprehensive shooting insurance, but it brings you a whole host of other, member-only privileges, too...

Membership of BASA brings you these privileges:

Your own airgun ID card and insurance docket.

Free Competition Entry Tokens for Air Gunner and Airgun World magazines.

Save £££ on shooting books, magazine subscriptions and binders.

Member-only discounts at selected gun shops.

Third party liability indemnity - excess £250 property damage only.

* The Public Liability Insurance is arranged by Giles (Insurance Brokers) Ltd. who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority

To sign up for membership to the British Airgun Shooters Association online just answer the following questions:
1. Have you ever been declined insurance before?
2. Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence? (excluding minor driving offences)
3. Are you under the age of 18?

If you have answered ‘yes’ to any of the above questions please contact 0118 977 1677 to provide details before applying. If not, please click below to be taken to our secure credit card page.

If you wish to make a telephone application, please call 01858 438 842 (Monday to Friday 8am - 9.30pm & Saturday 8am - 4pm)

A great bit of software. Have a look and download the trial

2011-08-31T09:49:00.001+01:00

http://jiteco.com/jcopia.html Capture flash video and audio from any website to your computer.

Have you ever thought how to download video and audio from flash players on internet sites like Youtube, Google Video,
MySpace, DailyMotion, Metacafe, Break, Blog sites of your friends with embedded audio and video content and so on?

So, JCopia does it all. It captures flash video / audio / stream from any website to your computer as files. Just play your
media online and watch as JCopia 4.7.8672 saves any clip / music / movie to your computer.

JCopia detects and begins to download any clip, video, music, radio stream, video stream, Flash game or presentation that is
played in your browser. Increase your video and audio collection with JCopia now!

It is a very convenient tool for collections video and audio files on disk.

Shooting land available.

2011-07-31T20:31:00.000+01:00

Over the next few weeks i will be posting a list of land that i have available to shoot on. If you want to get on any of this land then send me a email and i will try to get you on. Most of the land i have permission for is around the North east of chesterfield but during the coming weeks i will be looking for more land.

I operate a strict " NO INSURANCE NO SHOOTING" policy. This protects you as a shooter and the land owner against accidents. BASA provide a very good insurance service and is also very cheap. Before you are given written permission to shoot you must provide me with your valid id number off the insurance documents. This WILL be checked with your insurance supplier.

All my shooters are vetted by ME. This ensures i am only letting responsible shooters on the land....When you on on any of the land i have permission for you represent ME. This said i will not tolerate any breach in safety and any permission given Will be withdrawn in the event of complaints.

The cost. £50 per year gives you unlimited access to the permitted land (The year works like this...the start date of your insurance to the expiry date of your insurance) You will get a DVS membership card, again this will run with your insurance dates, map and permitted species list. You should have this card with you EVERY TIME you go on the permission. It is proof you do in fact have written permission to be on the land and if you are on any land without the card you WILL be reported for ARMED TRESS PASS.
Also, as a safety measure, i ask that before you intend to use any permission you contact me when you arrive and when you leave. This ensures that I and the land owner know you are there and if anything was to happen to you we know where to find you. Safety is everything

If you can agree to these rules and you want to be considered for permission email me a contact number and i will ring/text you to arrange a meeting.

All the best.

Richard.

A great day out for all the family

2011-06-01T09:38:00.007+01:00

The UK's premier Game and Country Fairs

Countryman Fairs organise the UK’s leading group of countryside events. Our portfolio of award winning events is home to the world’s most prestigious field sports competitions, and great family entertainment.

http://www.countrymanfairs.co.uk/

A family home since 1577, Parham Park provides a most appropriate setting for a true family event, which includes superb family features alongside the traditional field sports activities. Parham’s well-preserved cliff faces provide an impressive backdrop for this country lifestyle showcase.
Parham Park is a well-liked location for steam, stationary engines and vintage vehicles and this year we will build upon this longstanding connection to incorporate a complete vintage section including working demonstrations of wood sawing, stationary engines, classic cars and all the artefacts associated with traditional engines.

The Sussex game and country fair has a strong connection with local societies and associations, who stage fascinating exhibitions of small livestock, living history and caged birds; we are pleased to welcome once again the Eastergate Cavy Club and Chichester Caged Bird Society with their exhibitions, which with each passing year are growing in size and fascination.

In 2011, the Sussex Game and Country Fair will once again welcome a qualifying round each day for the Mitsubishi Motors World Series Gundog Championship. With the championship we bring you some of the most outstanding have-a-go Gundog events to be found at any game fair, with the natural features of the parkland incorporated into the events to add an extra dimension.

This year the Sussex Game and Country Fair also hosted the 5th and 6th qualifying rounds of the Mitsubishi Motors World Series Clay Shooting Championship, sending another 12 hopefuls through to the Grand Final held on Sunday 19th September at the Midland Game Fair to shoot off for the brand NEW Mitsubishi Trojan worth over £20,000.00.

The whole family can get involved all around the Sussex Game and Country Fair, with have-a-go activities for all age groups. The Airgun Training and Education Organisation host the have-a-go Airgun Tuition and competition ranges, but if shooting is not your style then why not try your hand at Fly Casting, one of Britain’s best loved past times, with the Salmon and Trout Association on hand to provide information and have-a-go tuition, you’ll be casting in no time.

Outstanding displays in the Main Arena, have-a-go feature areas, children’s entertainers ‘Magic n’ Mayhem, and performances from the incredible Titan the Robot culminate in a full day of exciting entertainment for all the family. The Sussex Game and Country Fair is simply a great day out for the whole family.

Not Around Much ;-(

2010-10-28T12:21:00.002+01:00

Hi yall

I have not been around much in the past few months nor have i been out there hunting and what not ,This i mainly due to my most prized air-rifle being stolen AAs410, and to be honest i'm still sick about it ,have not really had to heart to get out in the fields but the fact that i am writing here means things could be easing off some what and my yern for fresh air and freedom that hunting provides is slowly coming back.

i think using the AA's410 i certainly got drawn in to its easy handling and precise shooting thus could not put it down. When i do get out, it will be with one of my springer's and regreting that i hadnt spent time practicing with it ,so.... meny practice outings to come i believe

so hopefully in the next few days to weeks i'll be back on top form in spirit and ability with my new but (old ) tackle

till then take care guys/girls

Mike

Spring is here.....

2010-04-20T21:03:00.005+01:00

Hello everyone
As the sun is getting warmer and the days longer, i think its time to get out and see whats happening in the fields. Due to me spending time on other projects, i havent has much time to enjoy my shooting but, over the comming months, i should be able to get out and enjoy the countryside and harvest some free meat for the freezer.
I hope you all have had some good shooting trips in your part of the world.
You may notice a new addition to the bottom right of this page (under the shops list). This little widget shows where in the world people are when they visit my blog. I have been running this blog since october 07 and as you can see from the hit counter i have had some great hits. I hope to continue adding infomation to the blog as it becomes available.

Thats it for now but i will post again soon.

Take care and stay safe everyone.

Richard Nash.

Ballistol.

2010-02-20T21:54:00.005Z

If you want a biodegradable safe oil to use on your rifles then visit this site. I have tested all the oils from Ballistol and i would not promote it if i didn't think it wasn't up to the job. This really is a special oil. Search my blog for posts about Ballistol or Click the link or the picture and find out for yourself why everyone should use Ballistol oils.

"Our new site is dedicated to extolling the virtues and environmental benefits of Ballistol, a Bio-degradable oil, Non-Toxic Multi-Purpose Oil".

"BALLISTOL has been available in Europe for over three generations. Originally developed for military use it became a household name in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Millions of users have experimented with BALLISTOL and found new surprising applications for it, some of which reach into the field of veterinary and even human medicine".

Kit bag...what do you have in yours

2010-02-20T20:07:00.001Z

As the warm weather is picking up now I have started to do a kit check. All the things i need for hunting is in a rucksack and this is a list of what I have with me when i go on a days shoot.

Knifes : I always have more than one knife and a sharpener. Different blades for different jobs.

Multi tool : This has a multitude of uses from a razor sharp main blade to a saw blade for removing small branches when hide building.

Matches and tinder : In a waterproof container.

Windproof lighter and rubber tinder for fire lighting.

Hand wash : With this hand wash you don't need water. Good for when you have been gutting your game but it has another use. It is flammable, so it can be used to help start fires for cooking too.

Large cutting tools : If you are staying for a whole days hunting you may want to build yourself a hide/shelter. Then you need some large cutting tools to undertake the job.

Game hangers/carriers : Stay hands free and clip these to your belt loops and slip your rabbits and pigeons into them.

Camo tarp and para cord : Great for keeping the rain off and keeping you dry.

Camo netting : Ideal for adding some dimension to your hide...Helps you blend in.

Cooker and cup : Always nice to have a nice hot cuppa.

The tin can is used to heat your water on your stove or in your fire. A great way to recycle your bean cans.

Countryman Fairs

2010-01-08T11:58:00.003Z

If you want to keep up to date with what is happening on the game fairs front, then look no further than countryman fairs .

Countryman Fairs have been organising nationally acclaimed events for over 20 years. The superb standards and value offered by each show are reflected by both the growing visitor numbers and the ongoing support of major countryside societies and associations, who are proud to be linked to these prestigious shows.
Countryman Fairs have developed an award-winning event structure that brings the same superb array of demonstrators, competitions and exhibitors to every show. This is then enhanced by a wide variety of extra attractions and features that add interest and excitement for visitors. Countryman Fairs shows provide entertainment and have-a-go activities for everyone interested in field sports and country life, whatever their age or level of ability.
The dynamic management team are bringing a fresh outlook to the world of country pursuits, drawing upon a wealth of knowledge and experience from everyone associated with Countryman Fairs. Attendance figures for the Midland Game Fair continue to grow, with a target of 100,000 visitors within three years. The three smaller shows are expected to reach 50,000 visitors each within the same timeframe. Visit a Countryman Fairs event and see the future of field sports.

Visit the website to book your tickets to this years events at Kelmarsh Country Fair, Highclere Country Fair, Sussex Country Fair and Midlands Game Fair .

Mark Gilchrist is Game For Everything !

2010-01-04T20:52:00.006Z

For some time now I have been watching Mark Gilchrist on youtube as he is the master when it comes to cooking game of all kinds. After asking Mark if he would like me to do a post on him and his website he said " Yes Please", so here it is.

“Game for Everything” is a specialist game catering company based in the heart of rural Kent and run by head chef Mark Gilchrist.

All our ingredients are sourced locally, our meat is all free-range or wild and evidently, much has been in range of Mark's 12-Bore. To ensure total control of quality in aspects of the final product, including the all important taste, all of our meals are always prepared completely from scratch.

Have a look at our new video section which has on-line cooking demonstrations illustrating some of our techniques.

Our philosophy is simple as with all good slow food, it should always be good, clean and fair.
Head chef of Game For Everything, Mark, holds vast experience and respect within the worlds of both catering and game.

Mark started both shooting and cooking when he was just seven years old and this passion has spawned Game For Everything. Mark's unique knowledge of the whole process of preparing game: shooting, skinning, butchering and cooking, has led to an international demand for his services and much press attention. Most recently he appeared on Gordon Ramsay's The F-Word, BBC Radio 4's Food Show, Market Kitchen and telegraphonline.

Mark writes a regular column in Sporting Shooting magazine, where he prepares and cooks different items of game every month.

This is just one of the great videos on youtube.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXo6JmdVqBs

To see more of Marks videos click the link below :

http://www.youtube.com/user/markgameforeverythin#p/u

I hope you all get as much out of these videos as i did.

Richard.

Christmas time again.

2009-12-22T09:51:00.002Z

Well Christmas is here again and i cant believe that another year has almost passed. We at DVS have had a great year and have had some very productive shoots over the past 12 months, and i am really looking forward to next spring. I wish you are all a very merry Christmas and a very happy new year. Please keep coming back to see the new topics and pictures of our shoots. I must say that i am very grateful to you all for reading what i post and because of you ,the readers, that i continue to post on the blog and keep it going. Don't forget that if you want to comment on any of my topics just hit the comment button under the post and add your comments.

May you all have a fantastic Christmas and very happy new year.

All the best from me and all at DVS.

Another great airgun shop comes to dvs.

2009-12-11T19:42:00.003Z

Airgunstate.co.uk is owned and operated by Merlin archery Ltd, who have been in the archery business for over 30 years. They have been manufacturing cutting edge compound bows and service thousands of customers through their mail order business, showroom and workshops in leicestershire.

So, why airguns....well we love shooting too! We shoot airguns as well as bows...so we now stock both bows and air rifles.

They have a fully stocked showroom, a shooting range to try out your new purchase and helpfull staff to advise you. Click on the link to visit the online shop.

New topics on the forum.

2009-11-24T14:28:00.003Z

As some of you know the DVS forum hasnt had much use over the past few months, mainly because i havent had time to add new stuff to it. Well i am now going to be adding some new stuff to to the forum and i invite all the readers of this blog to join us on the forum.

If you wish to become a member of the DVS forum please email me with your username so i can check you into the system. This way we avoid the spamers and bulk advertising.

I hope to see some of you in there.

Click the link at the top of the page, under the hit counter, and come have a look around

Thanks

Richard.

Wildlife Officers....who are they!

2009-11-18T21:16:00.003Z

As we all know finding somewhere to enjoy shooting is fast becoming impossible. Landowners and farmers have become very wary of anyone wanting to use their land for air rifle shooting, mainly because they dont know if the shooter can be trusted. Once you have gained permission to shoot from a farmer or landowner, you should do everything you can to maintain good relations between yourself and the landowner/farmer/gamekeeper. It would also be beneficial for you to contact your local police station, speak to their Wildlife Officer and introcduce yourself, explain who you are and what you intend to shoot and where. It will also help the police identify you if you are reported for being on the land.

I have only recently become aware of the existance of the Wildlife Officers, through one of our local farms who were experiencing problems with poachers. As a result of this, DVS have started to build foundations that should hopefully help put an end to the more negative aspects of air rifle shooting, i.e. poaching and trespassers. Whilst we are pursuing our sport we are a very effective part of a large team, we are extra eyes and ears for the farmer/landowner and know instantly if there is something different on the land we are on. Whilst it is habit for us to inform the farmer that we are on his land for the purpose of pest control, any passing member of the public does not have that information

It is best practice to ring your local Police Station and inform them what times you will be shooting between, where you will be shooting, how many people will be in your group and what vehicles you will be using. They will then give you an incident number which you should retain, that incident number will relate to a specific date. Each time you go out shooting a new incident number should be obtained. If our presence is reported to the police then the Wildlife Officer has prior knowledge of who has permission to be there and therefore saving time checking things out

Working together with the police, we can help stop illegal activity in our countryside, as the only way we will beat the poachers, illegal corses, deer hunters etc. is by working as one big team rather than individuals restricted by boundary hedges. The police are more than keen to catch the people committing these offences, but are restricted by numbers and will gladly accept any assistance they can get from people who use the countryside.

Our local Derbyshire Wildlife Officer; PC 2315 Adam Galley, is holding a meeting on Monday 7th December at 17.00. The meeting will be held at The Horse and Groom public house, Scarcliffe, Chesterfield, and all interested parties are invited to attend.

Lastly, if you do happen to see anything suspicious call your local police station , Derbyshire's none emergency number is 0345 123 3333, Nottinghamshire's is 01159 670999, South Yorkshire's is 01142 202020 and report your sightings to them. If however you feel you need an immediate response from the Police please call 999.

The British Shooting and Countryman Show

2009-11-08T21:50:00.003Z

Its that time of year again, the cold, dark wet days and the forcast seems to be the same from one week to the next. Well heres something to look forward to...A bigger, Better British Shooting and Countryman Show. Click the pics to go to the website and get your tickets to the BIG air gun show

Out with Arron and our newest member Fabio

2009-11-02T20:20:00.003Z

Firstly i would like to welcome Fabio to the DVS group and i hope you enjoy the shoots. I am sure that you will pick up some good tips and tricks from other D.V.S members.
Today was the first time out shooting for almost a month so I was eager to get out and see how things were on the farms. Our destination today is whitwell, to see how MIXY is effecting the rabbit population and i am pleased to say that all the rabbits we saw today were free from the dreadful virus.
The sun was out but the wind was blowing quite well, so we headed into the trees to look at the warrens, and to seek some shelter from the wind. Rabbits in this area were out having a warm in the morning sunshine after a very cold night so they were quite easy to spot. The pigeons were out in their hundreds too.

In this picture you can just about see me and as I am laying quite close to the rabbit warrens, with the wind blowing my scent towards them, they know i am there.

But in this picture I am invisible and with the added advantage of shootmore I am now totally hidden from the rabbits. All I have to do now is wait for them to come in to view and with a well placed shot its lights out. This just shows that with the new patterns of realtree you can really blend in to your surroundings, no matter what time of year it is.

More to come over the next few weeks including a shootmore video and how to keep your rifle free from rust during this wet and cold time of the year.

My benchrest.

2009-10-19T19:20:00.002+01:00

After thinking how I could make a rest for shooting I came up with this. From the rest to the backstop it is exactly 25 mtr and as it is set between the kitchen and the utility room i am out of the cold. I set out 2 target sheets and tried it out for position and hight. It was spot on and i shot off 10 shots at a 25 mtr target.

Looking from the rest to the backstops at the top of our garden. Nice line of sight and i keep warm too.

Very stable and using my hunting cushion it was nice and soft on the elbows.

As you can see, it works. And when im finished i can slide it out and pack it away leaving the doorway free from obstruction.

OUT AND ABOUT IN BUNNY LAND

2009-10-09T12:35:00.024+01:00

my night vision seems to be on its way out so went old school got
the lamp out an headed for the hills

on arrival had a good look round to find plenty of action ... Sime
had his new Yukon NV unit so needed to keep some distance so
i would not blow his image intensifier tube. So we split up i went
over four or five field while Sime stayed putt with the NV

i saw three in the first field but the distance was to make the shot
imposable so i needed to close down the range quite allot ,using
every thing i could as cover against the moonlight and crawling for
about thirty yards .I slid under the barbed wire witch separated
the fields to find i was well within range ,so i flicked on the lamp
but one had gone...never mind i can only get one shot off
anyhow..Both jump and run ,placing the beam in front of them
they both stopped and i could see one on the edge of the
scope,but when i moved the cross hair on to him because
the lamp is mounted on the gun the beam flooded him again
sending him running so i stopped him again moving the beam in
front of him this time when i passed the cross hair over him he
was not to move, so he went over with a click of the trigger....
great stuff one in the bag in no time.

although the bag was not empty the next rabbit was to come just
as quick in the next field lamp on and over he went, but with it
came the Grimm sight of the rabbits dangerous foe. with its eye's
puffed and pussy i was sad to see the disease,but at the same time
was happy I'd taken this bunny because it was obviously in some
real pain and discomfort as the picture below shows ...most of its
fur was rubbed off its face ,front legs and back legs ....and was
the skinniest I'd seen for some time...and i left him were he lay

this one is to match my friend Duncan....still eating

the next couple were text book opps................

bottoms up..........................................

.............................................................
CAUGHT UP WITH SIME

i headed back over to the N.V man..who had bagged up as
well with sneaky night vision shots he,d totted up three
,one of witch was a modest 50/55 yrd shot

Sime in the position i found him in when i got back....Yukon
unit in hand

Sime's pyramid off bunnies

Mike s410

HEADS UP.....NEW SITE COMING SOON.

2009-10-08T19:40:00.002+01:00

In the next few weeks our new website will be filling up with loads of new stuff. I will be keeping this blog going but i will be also working on the new website too.

The new site can be found at http://www.triflewithrifles.com/ and will become a dedicated site based around all things air rifle. Come and have a look around and let me know what you think.

Richard Nash.

BREAKING NEWS.......

2009-10-05T21:21:00.004+01:00

The all new AirGun Shooting website is now up and running. This is the new look website for the AIRGUNNER and AIRGUN WORLD magazines. Click the link to check out this fantastic website, packed full of infomation, helpfull hints and tricks and keep up to speed with everything in the airgun insustry.

Theres loads to look through, so what are you waiting for....click Here and have a look!

Get £2,000,000 Shooting insurance for less than 6p a day by joining the British Airgun Shooters' Association. Click the picture to get yours.
The BASA is the only association exclusive to airgun shooting and runs in partnership with Britain's largest shooting organisation - the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (B.A.S.C.) - to protect the future of airgun sport in the U.K.

Mondays shoot...bagged a bunny.

2009-09-22T12:38:00.003+01:00

Went out for a few hours to show how i undertake my hunting trips to a newcomer to the shooting/hunting scene. Arron was impressed that he got to shoot his first rabbit using my rifle.
This was a poor rabbit that had succumb to the dreaded myxi virus so the shot was taken to end this poor rabbits suffering. This is the only one we have found so far, but I am sure more will start to appear over the coming weeks.

They are still finding time to did holes along the hedgerows and we foundaround 30 new warrens along the field edges.

I was watching the rabbits come and go from the sugar beet crop, but Iwas just too far to get a clean shot off....I feel a lamping session coming up real soon.

Nice shooting.....

2009-09-22T12:21:00.003+01:00

Went out for a few hours and came home with a nice fat wood pigeon and 3 collered doves.

One shot from 40 yards. I didnt get a head shot but i hit it in the neck and it dropped down dead. Plucked and winged ready for crowning

One nice big pigeon crown ready for the freezer.

A welcome visit.

2009-09-22T11:12:00.004+01:00

This weekend I dropped in on Tony at G&T hunting & outdoor in Skegness, as I was in the area.

As always I received a very warm welcome and was shown what new stock they had in and I must say I was very impressed indeed. The shop is packed with everything you could possibly need for shooting and fishing and was quite busy too. The "pop up" hides looked great and, the Autumn days are upon us, what better way to stay out of the wind and rain than this. This is big enough for 2 + rifles and kit and still have room to move around. If you want a smaller hide then this is for you. A 1 man hide with built in seat, still enough room to move around and you are out of the wind and rain. RRP is around £90 and for me that's value for money.

Now, this is a must for any angler or hunter....the new Shimano Tribal range. The "NO NOISE" fabric makes it ideal for hunting and fishing alike.

Go on...you know you want one, he he......

The shelves are full with kit from Jack Pyke...if you cant find what you want, ask Tony or Ginny and they will be more than happy to help you find what you are looking for.

They stock a fantastic range of air rifles, PCP-springer-Co2, from plinking to serious hunting, scopes, pellets etc and they also stock shotguns. Again, if you don't see what you want just ask.

If you are in the area why not pop in and see for yourself how good the shop is and indeed how helpful the staff can be.

The shop can be found in the Shops Listing. Click on the picture to visit the online shop.

"TOP SHOP" on the list...

2009-09-18T16:34:00.004+01:00

Now i have had personal experience from this shop and i think they are one of the best hunting shops out there. Friendly service from dedicated staff and loads of stock to choose from. click on the picture to visit their online shop, or you will find them listed in the " TOP SHOPS" section of my website.

G & T Hunting and Outdoor was established in 2004, supplying quality products for outdoor activities including hunting, shooting and fishing.
We moved to our new 1800 sq foot showroom in Ingoldmells in 2008, obtaining our Certificate of registration as a firearms dealer (RFD 32/984) in 2009 to retail firearms, shot guns,air rifles, pistols and related ammunition.

Our products relate to all outdoor activities, specialising in hunting, fishing and camouflage clothing,
Accessories for all shooting activities are also stocked including weapon cleaning, telescopic sights, cartridges and the supply of rifles, shot guns and pistols.

The first new shop on the "top shops" list.....

2009-09-17T16:56:00.007+01:00

Manchester Air Guns

Manchester Air Guns was established in 1977, the country's first 'all airgun' shop. Shops have come and gone, but MAG is still at the same address, under the same management, giving the same great service to many satisfied customers.

Manchester Air Guns - that says it all!It's where we are and what we do. Established in 1977 by two well known airgun collectors, it was the first actual airgun shop in the land. No shotguns or firearms - purely airguns. Early advertising claimed to have "all the world's airguns" - something hardly possible today with the vast choice. From the start a huge range of airguns was on offer in order to attract airgun enthusiasts from a wide area. MAG specialised in over-the-counter sales (rather than mail order) and this is still our preference, so that people can get the right product, first time. We carry the stock. Why not try before you buy? With our unrivalled experience and our good reputation to uphold we can help enthusiast or beginner.

Airguns from:AGS (Logun / Simmons) Air Arms, Brocock, BSA, Cometa, Crosman, Falcon, Gamo, Industry Brand, Hatsan, Umarex, Webley and Scott, Weirauch

Click the picture to visit there online shop.

NEW...shops listings.

2009-09-15T19:19:00.002+01:00

Over the next few weeks new shops will be added to the retail list. This will enable you to find the best shops for all your shooting needs. Emails have been sent out and many phone calls have been made in a bid to bring you the best of the best in online shopping. So, no more searching through the Internet looking for places to buy your pellets or when you need to replace any items of kit...simply look at the list of shops, pick one and enter the online shop..its that easy.

As you can see B.A.R (Blackpool air rifles), Tony's camo and Steve price are already on the list and i am hopeful others will quickly take up my offer to be added to the list of "Top Shops" for kit and shooting supplies on my ever growing site.

WATCH THIS SPACE......

ED. Richard Nash.

Targets...what do you use!

2009-09-15T14:22:00.002+01:00

I managed to get out today and make sure the rifle was on zero before my hunting sesion tomorrow. These are the targets i used and i am pleased to report that indeed my rifle is spot on .
Now, i find these pictures better to use than your standard targets as they help you place the shot exactly in the right place. Bulls eye targets are ok but nothing beats a real picture for shot placement in my opinion.
Remember...take your paper targets home with you and throw them away. Leave youe shoot as you found it and the landowner/farmer will not have any problems with you shooting on his land.

Shootmore.....yes it works! Field to fork.

2009-09-15T13:35:00.003+01:00

Today was the first day of shooting for me after a 6 week break ( school holidays) and i was wanting to get out and try Steve Price`s "Shootmore".
I arrived at the farm and set off down the fields to where i knew i could find rabbits, out in the morning sun, having a warm. I spotted a adult sat at the edge of the field of rape stubble and as i watched 4 smaller ones hopping around the field, close to the adult. I got under the hedge and waited to see if i spooked them.

After just 5 Min's i decided to move up closer to the rabbits, I was about 60 yards from them, so out came the shootmore. With the wind behind me, blowing my scent towards the waiting rabbits, i sprayed the shootmore onto my trousers and jacket and started to move ever closer to get within a 30 yard range.

30 yards and closing....i managed to get within 20 yards and the rabbits never moved, i lay`ed in the grass and took the shot. Down it went, a clean shot to the head and the other 4 just sat there...not a flinch, so they went down 1-by-1. The 4 smaller rabbit s were left at the farm ( keeping in the farmers good graces) and i brought the big one home.
From field to fork took 2 hours. I didn't paunch the rabbit like i normally do because i was going to show a novice how its done, starting with the skinning...remove first as i find paunching easier to do without fir. This allows me to show how the paunching process is done.

The rabbit was then left to soak in a bucket of cold salted water for 1 hour and then put on the BBQ over a medium heat for 30 Min's and gradually removed the meat from the bone and put it into my pan. The meat was cooked for another 10 Min's with a Mediterranean sauce and was ready to eat.

After trying a small piece of rabbit my son went to fetch a bowl and asked for some more. 3 bowl later he was full and the rest (what little there was) was for me.

Caleb and his Oliver act...."Please dad, could i have some more coz it is so nice" How could i resist.

I did get to eat some and i really enjoyed it. I was very pleased that my son tried the rabbit on its own and with the sauce and he found he really liked the flavour. He wants more now so its off shooting again very soon.

Conclusion....Shootmore really does what it says it does. The proof is in the eating of the rabbit you have shot.

Go visit Steve price and find out for yourself how "SHOOTMORE" can help you shoot more rabbits.

Grey Squirrel Control

2009-09-03T10:38:00.003+01:00

Since their introduction into Britain in the 1870s grey squirrels have spread rapidly. They have displaced the red squirrel throughout most of England and Wales and in southeast and central Scotland.
Grey squirrels can cause serious problems for foresters, native wildlife and gamekeepers. The bark stripping from tree trunks during the months of May and June, damages stands of timber and natural woodland. In spring, the taking of eggs and young chicks can be devastating for songbird and ground nesting bird populations. Damage to hoppers, feed bins and water pipes can cause serious and costly shoot management problems.
The grey squirrel is also a significant factor in the decline of the native red squirrel population in the UK. Greys can carry the squirrel pox virus. And although they are are relatively unaffected themselves t the disease causes considerable suffering and death to the red squirrel –which is already severely threatened and extinct in may parts of the UK.
Grey squirrels have limited legal protection and can be controlled all year round by a variety of methods including shooting, trapping and poisoning. It is an offence under section 14 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981) to introduce and release grey squirrels into the wild. Under the provisions of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 any person responsible for a squirrel trap, would only be responsible for any animal caught by it but not its offspring still in the wild. Under the act, it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a kept animal (this includes live caught animals).

One method of control is Shooting.

Shooting of grey squirrels can be a very effective method of control, especially in early spring when young shoots are showing in trees. On a sunny day grey squirrels will work in the outmost branches of a tree and chew the new shoots, they can become easy targets.
The best weapon for this form of control would be an air rifle, it is not recommended to shoot at the angles provided with a .22 rimfire. However, a powerful air rifle (less than 12 ft/llb can and will perform adequately. A rimfire rifle would be more suitable for shooting squirrels on the ground around the base of a tree where a safe backstop is provided.
This also works for shooting with shotguns, around the base of a tree and shooting into the lower branches of a tree a shotgun will kill squirrels humanly, rather than shooting high into the tops and wounding unnecessarily. Remember, as with all shooting, assess your background before taking any shot. If in doubt don’t shoot.

Disposal of carcasses
Unless you intend to eat them, all dead squirrels should be deeply buried or incinerated.

More on the S16EVO laser ......

2009-09-03T09:58:00.001+01:00

Ok....2 weeks of trying and i have now sorted the laser on this bloody EVO.I rang Logun and they couldnt give me much in the way of an explanation as to how you zero the laser as you cant get to the top adjustment screws due to the shape of the new fore grip. On the S16s the laser was flush with the fore grip end and you could very easly get to the grub screws to zero the thing in.......the top two grub screws are now hiden under the fore grip. So you have to undo the screws that hold the laser in to the fore grip and rotating the laser round untill you get to the hidden grub scerws. But as you undo the holding screws the laser moves down...then you turn it round and clamp down the screws, so to adjust the grub screws but the laser has shifted....you then need to totaly rezero with the laser in its new possision....WHAT A FARSE ......If you are gonna get one of these LOGUN S16EVOs, get the laser fitted and zeroed before you collect your rifle or just dont bother...how oftern will you use it anyway. Save the £70 and put it towards a Harris bi-pod...you will get more use out of that than you will a laser.I have been informed that Logun have stoped making the S16 rifle altogether now and , to be honest, i can see why.

Richard.

Logun S16 EVO.....laser opperation problem

2009-08-20T20:12:00.005+01:00

Today i was asked to fit a Logun tactical laser into a Logun S16EVO. Now, i have fitted logun lasers to quite a few LogunS16s rifles and i must say it is quite easy. Once fitted into the laser hole in fore grip you should be able to press the button on the end of the laser by simply inserting your finger into the switch hole under the fore grip. This is where things get interesting. The fore grip on the S16 EVO is about 2 inch`s longer than that on the S16s, therefore adding those 2 inch`s to the depth of the laser hole.

Now, here you can see how far i have to insert my finger into the switch hole just to turn the laser on and off ( my fingers are long and thick ). To try and insert your finger this far into the hole whilst holding the rifle is quite a job as you have to turn your hand over so that the fore grip is resting on the back of your hand. If you are using a bi-pod this may be a little easier as you are not holding the weight of the rifle in your hand/finger.
I would ask if you have experienced this problem with your Logun S16 EVO please send me a email to rnpk-dvs@fsmail.net . All emails will then be sent to webley/Logun as it seems that i am the first person to report this problem to them. This feedback will help the logun technical people look at this problem and address it accordingly. If we don't let them know a problem exists they cant take steps to rectify it......

Thanks

Richard.

Infomation from Steve Price......

2009-08-13T15:35:00.004+01:00

I am running a Saturday 24hours Adventure camping survival hunting shooting hand-to-hand course.
I WILL GIVE ALL WHO BOOK A WEEKS NOTICE AS I WILL WATCH THE WEATHER TO GET YOU THE BEST DAY.
The students can camp in the woods and shoot on a 40 yards airgun range. I will observe and offer advice ALSO ,teach camouflage and concealment skills, stalking and tracking skills and ambush skills. An Airgun quarry preparation lesson, emergency fire lighting and cooking skills. Then dinners cooked on an open fire, rabbit stew, tea or coffee ECT, or bangers and beans and mash, your choice. Then I will give a hand-to-hand self-defence lessondemonstrating disarming of knifes, bottles, defence against punches, strangles ECT. Then pop over the country pub for a few cold beers or soft drinks, optional and those who want to stay in camp can do so.Then bed down in your tents or the basher s (an improvised shelter that you made)
Then up in the morning tea coffee, breakfast then depart.

IT IS A GREAT 24 HOUR COURSE, AND ALL MONEY GOING TO BE DIVIDED BETWEEN TWO CHILDREN’S HOSPICES CHARITY’S A VERY WORTHY CAUSE.
ALL WHO ATTEND WILL GET :
A GIFT OF MY CAMPING & SURVIVAL DVD.
MY SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL EASY AIRGUN HUNTING PART 1 DVD.
IN ADDITION, MY NEW SAFE AND SUCCESSFUL EASY AIRGUN HUNTING DVD PART 2.(out now), MY CHILDREN’S STRANGER AWARENESS DVD AND IN ADDITION, I WILL FILM THE DAY AND MAKE YOU YOUR OWN DVD AND YOU WILL BE THE STARS.

COST £50 PER PERSON, OR £160 PER CAR. 5 PERSONS MAX.
INTERESTED PARTIES,EMAIL ME ON info@www.shootmore.co.uk

Many thanks and my very best regards.

STEVE PRICE.

Been Out For A Few Hours., and regretted it..

2009-08-09T11:05:00.004+01:00

The weather broke yesterday, the sun came out so i grabbed the rifle and headed out for an hour. I wasn't out of the car long when the woody caught me eye, sat in the tree tops above where i park. Out came the rifle and he was still sitting there....until Mr .22 hit him in the head and down he came.

I retrieved the bird and headed to the newly swathed rape field. The 100 or so pigeons shot up about 200 yards away from me and settled in the surrounding trees, but the rabbit was blissfully unaware i was there until....yep you guessed it, Mr .22 hit him in the head and he dropped where he was stood (18 yards away from me).

Now, for those of you who have noticed the BIG blue/gray clouds in the distance....you will be right in thinking i got wet....very very wet indeed. I was halfway back up the field when the heavens opened and the thunder boomed right over my head. Good old British weather eh....ya cant beat it...

Getting On Zero.

2009-08-09T10:57:00.005+01:00

The HW80k was ready for its 3 monthly strip and clean. I hadn't used it nearly enough as i had likes through these 3 months but never the less it got stripped down and cleaned. Once back together i repositioned the scope and headed out to a local farm to sort the zero out. I thought 35 yards would do it so out went the target and i settled in for 30 mins target practice ( you see, even us sharp shooters STILL practice ) I didn't touch the turrets to start with as i knew i was set about 30/33 yards and fired off two sets of 15 shots. These are the target cards i used.

Now i don't think these groups are bad going....Standing @ 30 / 40 yards. Using my HW80K with a slight right to left breeze.

How i store and carry my rifle.

2009-08-06T15:31:00.003+01:00

Carrying on with yesterdays post i thought i would show you how i keep my rifle safely secured away, when at home and in the car. This first picture shows the top safe, code and key operated. This is where i store ammo, night hunting lamp and knives, this way i know everything is locked away and no-one can get hurt. Because it is a large safe i can put all my hunting gear in it, where it will sit out of sight until i need it.

I have added a large padlock to the rifle safe just to back up the 2 standard locks fitted to the door. This also acts as a visual deterrent to anyone who may try to break in to it. My rifle safe is securely anchored to both the brick wall and the concrete floor with 8 inch bolts making it impossible to remove, even with brute force.

And, even if the rifle is remover unlawfully from the safe, the trigger lock will stop unauthorised use.

When i take my rifle to any one of my shoots it is carried in a hard case. This is padlocked shut and is held in the boot with a wire lock, the kind used on cycles. It may sound a little OTT but i think like this....if it is locked to your car it will deter thief's from pinching it because its not so easy to pick up and run with. Keep it locked...keep it!

All in all its just about using common sense, not just knowing what to do but actually doing it.

Safe and Secure - Lock Time

2009-08-05T14:36:00.005+01:00

'Safe and Secure'

In this months Airgunner, Matt Clark (Editor) looks at how we airgunners can get behind a new security initiative. This is a direct copy of the editorial from magazine to the DVS Blog.

At the mention of safety I am sure a fair few of you are already starting to turn the page. But STOP! Even if you think you know it all, or feel that this feature is going to include blindingly obvious information, read on because you might learn something that could prevent an accident.

Even if you know it all, you wont have heard of a new initiative called 'Lock Time'. Designed to eliminate the misuse of airguns by those who don't appreciate the rules of safety as much as we airgunners do, 'Lock Time' will raise awareness of safety and provide practical advice as well as the means to put that advice into action. Backed by companies that form the Airgun Manufacturers and Trade Association (AMTA) all members have agreed that they will supply, free of charge, a security lock with airguns sold in the UK. This will be backed by an information campaign, of which this article is part.

OUT OF SIGHT

One of the first steps to keep your airguns safe from people who would misuse them is to keep them out of sight. Most of us have to travel to our shoots, whether that is a club, HFT competition or farm. Naturally all of us travel with out airguns in a slip or bag because it is a legal requirement. But if you leave your rifle on the back seat of your car its an open invitiation for thieves and miscreants. After all, would you leave £500 (the cost of an average PCP) on the back seat and expect it to be there when you got back? Always travel with your rifles safely locked in the boot. If you have an estate car or 4x4 always make sure the parcel shelf or boot cover is pulled over the guns, so they are covered from prying eyes.

Keeping your airguns out of sight at home is equally as important. It's not a legal requirement to lock away your sub 12ft.lb. airguns but it is advisable to keep your airguns away from those who might misuse it. This includes your own children as well as thieves.

A purpose built gun safe or cabinet is ideal for this. These should be located inside your house rather than garden sheds, which are easy prey for burglars. It's also not adviseable to locate your gun cabinet in an attic. Yes, it's certainly out of the way but if it's difficult to get to, then it's unlikely you will bother to lock your airguns in there and you will just leave them lying around the house.

I lock up my airguns with my shotguns, which gives me peace of mind because the gun safe is bolted to the floor and main wall. But if you don't have a purpose built cabinet, or don't want to spend money on one, then there are alternatives. You can lock your air rifles in a wardrobe or cupboard. Some airgunners even use a ring bolt mounted to a wall (so long as it is out of sight) and chain their guns to it using the sort of locks AMTA are going to provide.

An added security measure is to use a trigger lock. This device ensures that your air rifle cannot be fired even if it is not locked in a cabinet.

One thing to remember is to keep the keys to your lock or gun cabinet in a secure place, not on the top of your gun cabinet or in the locks.

Your airgun pellets can also be stored in a locked cabinet with your guns, or you might choose to store them separately in a locked container so that if you gun cabinet is broken into the burglar can't load your rifle. A petty cash tin that can be bought from most hardware stores are good for this, or you can use any lockable box. Again this should be hidden somewhere safe.

YOUR RESPONSIBILITY

I'm sure many of you already know most of this, but the important thing is not just to know it, but to act on it. Airguns in the hands of people who know what they are doing are very safe, but we must act to keep them out of the hands of those who don't appreciate safety as much as we airgunners do. Become part of the Lock Time initiative and ensure your guns are securely stored.

I would like to thank Matt Clark for allowing me to replicate this article onto the DVS Blog, thus

allowing me to pass on news of the Lock Time initiative to everyone, not just those of us with access to the Airgunner magazine.

Targets.

2009-06-28T12:36:00.006+01:00

I have been looking for some targets and i have found these few. I will post more as i find them. Remember, don't litter, take the used targets away with you and throw them away.

Shooting on friday.

2009-06-27T13:53:00.005+01:00

It was a nice day to be out in the countryside today. I set off quite early to avoid the heat as the morning wore on. Now I know you are all up to speed with regards to the law and shooting on someones land but I thought i would show you how I prepare for a shoot. This farm has quite a bit of land to go at, many rabbits and wood pigeons as well as rats, but it has several footpaths that run through and around the fields where we shoot. So we have to make people aware we are there and what we are doing on the land. I take the car onto a patch of grass next to one of the more well used footpaths so people know some one is around.
Then in the window i display a notice so that people passing know who is in the area.

Also i hang warning signs around the area we are shooting.

I hang these smaller ones off the gates and fences around the shooting area too. This tells people that we have got written permission to be here and what is going on in the area.

It might seen a bit extreme, hanging signs up but i think that the safety of the public is paramount. If they have seen the signs and proceed in to the shooting area they are putting them selves at risk from getting injured.

I have in the car a map showing the boundary's and footpaths, therefor i know where i can and cant shoot. This is helpful if you are confronted by the police or a passing walker as you can show the clearly defined areas in which you are allowed to shoot.

Keep the shooting permission form, with the land owners signature on it with you or as i do in the car.This is clear proof that you have permission to shoot on the land you are on. This should show what pests the land owner has given you permission to shoot. Again this will help you if you are stopped or confronted by the police or a member of the public.

The signed shooting permission form.

Shooting insurance is a MUST if you intend to shoot on private land. This coveres you in the event of something going wrong. I know that some of you are thinking " i don't miss" or "it wont happen to me"...If you have insurance then this proves you are a responsible air gunner, and at £20 for the year is it worth taking a chance.

A first aid box/pack is also a must have in my opinion. Accidents do happen and you need to be prepared. It doesn't have to be to elaborate but i always take one with me every time i go shooting....you just never know what could happen.

Not forgetting my ballistol wipes. I have some in my kit bag, first aid pack and my rifle case.

Next comes the zero check. The farm has a nice area out of the way to set up a nice 30 yard range. Using a target, in this case a cattle feed beet, i set up and take 5 shots and check the grouping. Only then do i head out into the Fields looking for the rabbits and pigeons

From this bail to the target is 30 yards.

The target is behind the trailer at the end of the shed. The distance between the poles is just over 5 yards.

And as you can see all 5 shots hit almost hole on hole. I now know that myself and my rifle are are ready for the hunt and if i miss its down to me, not the rifle.

The result. Me 1 pigeons 0. Another nice plump bird for the freezer. Shot cleanly in the head from 47 yards. My rifle does the job quite easily and using a Simmons 6-18 x 42 scope helps too.

My HW80k and the pigeon who succumb to the speed and accuracy of such a nice rifle.

Another Backstop.

2009-06-19T19:00:00.004+01:00

I have been at it again. I had some spare 4x2 and an odd bit of kitchen worktop in the shed, so i set about making yet another backstop.

This one is smaller than my others. At just 30 inches high and 16 inches wide it holds a A4 paper target well. The particle board ( worktop ), being 2 inches thick, provides a more than adequate substance to stop and hold pellets. My first backstop has only just gone through the first layer, despite having safely stopped over 2500 .22 pellets* from my HW80 k. (running at 11.7 flbs)

The inside measures just 12 inches. At this size A4 sheets fit just nicely.

Again, the 15 inches allows easy placement of paper targets.

Made from 4X2 fencing timber and painted with brown gloss to help repel water/rain.

Total timber needed for this project is :

9 foot of 4 x 2.

15 inch x 12 inch of kitchen worktop

Cut two lengths at 30 inch (2 foot 6 inch). These are the sides.

Cut four 12 inch (1 foot) lengths. These are the top, bottom and the two feet.
Use 4 inch screws to hold it all together and paint your chosen colour.

I added another strip of pine to catch any falling pellets and bits of paper/board. This also provides a nice place to stand bottle tops or other suitable targets.
If you want any further help of advice about buildnig your own backstops please feel free to email me with your questions.

rnpk-dvs@fsmail.net

2009-06-07T21:24:00.010+01:00

I managed to get out for a few hours on Thursday. It was another hot day and i wanted to go have a look at how the rabbit population was doing at whitwell. There wasn't much about but there was plenty of evidence of activity under the hedges and the edges of the field.

I did manage to bag a few wood pigeons during my stay. They had been eating their way through the rape fields and i was sat beneath their favorite sitty tree, waiting for them to flock in. It wasn't long before the first one hit the floor, closely followed by a second. Fifteen minutes later the third sercum to the wrath of my hw80, hitting the ground from 35 meters up.

I will back out there again on Tuesday, providing the weather gets better, to see if i cant get some rabbit to accompany the pigeon on the BBQ, or i may even do a nice pie.

On the range...The New S16 Evo.

2009-05-18T20:33:00.002+01:00

After i had set up the new Logun S16 Evolution it was time to see how it performed. It was throwing it down with rain so the test was all done in the comfort of my kitchen, shooting up on my back garden range ( the total length from my seated position to the backstops is 37.8 yards).

The first job was to see if the new bolt loading system was an improvement on the slide loading bar on its predecessor. This isn't a test per say but i wanted to see if the evo could cock, index and load each pellet without suffering a jam or double load situation. The first 8 shots took just under 8 seconds, 4 seconds to drop, turn and re-insert the 16 shot mag and another 8 seconds to empty the remaining 8 pellets. The cocking cycle performed without fault and felt extremely positive. No jams at all...unlike the older models.

With the scope set at 35 yards, the next test was accuracy. I setup 4 paper targets on the 3 backstops each with a 30mm kill zone and started to unload the s16 into them. I was sat on a chair and using the rifle on the bi pod off the kitchen table. The full barrel sound suppressor made firing the S16 a very quiet affair and the only noise you hear is the click of the trigger and a whisper as the pallet leaves the barrel. The grouping was incredibly good..pellet on pellet with-in the 35mm kill zone. This rifle provides clinical accuracy, ideal for close range ratting or longer range rabbit/pigeon hunting. The shot count on the rifle i tested was 249 on the one charge, so plenty of air for a good hunting session.

The Harris Pro Tilt bi pod helps immensely when taking those long range shots, but weighing in at 1.3kg i think it is a little heavy to have it bolted on all the time. It only takes a few moments to mount, so if you are stalking i would swap the bi pod for a quick realise sling.

All-in-all i would say that the new S16 EVO is now everything you need from a great rifle. Now that the Logun (owned by Webley) have sorted out all the problems what we have is a fantastic PCP for all areas of air gunning.

Verdict ; The All New Logun S16 Evolution is defiantly reborn and the people at Webley have worked hard to rebuild the reputation of this now fantastic rifle.

If any rifle deserves a place in your collection, its this one.

Richard

The all new Logun S16 Evo

2009-05-18T19:56:00.005+01:00

On friday I had the pleasure of setting up a brand new Logun S16 Evo. I was quite looking forward to this as I have had first hand experianced the failings of the older models, so in my eyes this was the last chance for Logun (now owned by Webley) to prove themselves. This is what I thought of this "NEW" Logun S16 Evolution.

The rifle came to me in a nice Buffalo River carry case, not the Logun one the rifle come in, with the scope and the bipod already mounted.The first thing is the angled buddy bottle. This allows much better eye to scope alignment and feels much better in the shoulder.The revamped pistol grip is much better than the old one. It has a swell on the top that helps you position your finger better on the trigger. As an added bonus there is a small concealed compartment, in the pistol grip that can be used to stow cleaning cloths or spare pellets.

Now for the new bolt.

Gone is the sliding cocking lever and in its place is a brand new 40mm bolt. It cocks, indexes and loads pellets flawlessly and cycles so cleanly there is no chance of a pellet jam or double load. I managed to empty 16 shots in 20 seconds without any problems at all.

There is almost no report from this rifle due to the sound suppressor. This is a integral part of the barrel system and it works really well at keeping the noise down.

The bipod used on this rifle is a Harris Pro Tilt. It is a bit heavy for my liking but provides rock solid support when taking those all important shots.

Now, its not cheap. Retailing at around the £600 mark it is a lot of money but for me the people at Webley have finally given us what they promised back in 2001.

Its been a long time coming but I think they have cracked it this time.

Richard.

A nice sunny day for a walk.

2009-05-07T12:21:00.008+01:00

I decided to head to our largest shoot today as i haven't been for a while, just to see how things were going and to look at the rabbit runs for sign`s of activity. True to form they had been out for their morning run and feed and as i approached the bank of warrens they bolted to the safety of their burrows. The sun was very warm and i went walking up to the woods at the top of the field where the pigeons roost once they have destroyed the rape.

Looking into the woods from the field you can see how the bluebells have bloomed under the protection of the tree canopy

As i was scanning the trees for the roosting pigeons i noticed a flock of about 20 sitting under the leaves of a beach tree some 40 feet up. One of the pigeons was very unlucky..all his mates flew off and he was sat there wondering what we going on. Seconds later he was on the floor...wondering no more. I hit it in the head and it hit quite a few branched on its way to the ground.

Down by the brook i found some of my favorite wild greens....Ramsons...wild garlic...

I think these give a nice flavour to rabbit and pigeon and now they are in full bloom i will be picking some for the freezer.

A new follower.

2009-05-06T20:11:00.004+01:00

Now, anyone who reads the Air gunner mag will no-doubt be familiar with the name Nigel Allen.

Air gunner contributor and former editor has become the latest person to follow my blog. What Nigel does`nt know about air rifles really isn't worth knowing and his expert advice can be found on his own new blog.

This is Nigels profile info from his blog :

Airguns have been my passion for 35 years, and my business for the past 25 years. I've edited and/or published various airgun publications, including the best-selling journals, Air Gunner and Airgun World. I also founded the British Airgun Shooters' Association and now write about air rifle field shooting in the monthly magazine, Sporting Shooter. I'm also a regular contributor to other consumer shooting magazines such as Air Gunner and Gun Mart, and also to trade journals like Gun Trade News.

Please visit his blog by clicking on the picture below and see for yourself how much you can learn from one of the masters of the air gun world....

Thursdays shoot.

2009-05-01T20:56:00.010+01:00

At last...some time to myself.

I finally got to do some well deserved shooting on Thursday. It was warm and dry so i decided to head to our rabbit shoot to look how thinks were going after the gassing. To my surprise there were quite a few young rabbits about, eating the rape and lounging in the sun. This told me that even though the gassing had been done on a vast stretch of hedgerow, some had survived and the young ones will give us something to shoot in coming months.

After looking round the fields i decided to head to the farm and have a look at the wood pigeon population in the farm yard. Now that the leaves have grown the pigeons think it is safe to rest after feeding on the lushes rape seed tips. But we know where they sit and we have quite a few spots in the 250x60 yard copse where we can sit quite comfortably and wait for them to fly in.

This one sat for a moment, posed for this picture and realised that it wasn't a good idea when the .22 bisley superfield slammed into his head.

As you can see from these pictures there are plenty of trees for the pigeons to roost in and once you are in under the trees its just a case of waiting for them to fly in.

At 60 yards wide its very easy to spot the Woody's flying in towards you when they have done eating the surrounding fields.

Looking back towards the rape fields where the pigeons feed. We often sit in the trees around this field with the decoys out..this proves very productive and provides us with a good bag of free meat.Speaking of "free meat"...i did manage to bag another nice Woodie for the freezer...i feel a BBQ coming on.

Spring Has Sprunge

2009-04-29T21:32:00.005+01:00

Hi Guys

While out today checkin on the Land managed to take this picture, lots of kits around ,no sign of the mixy

just thought i would share this picture with you all

see yas

Mike S410

SHOOTMORE...by Steve Price

2009-04-18T12:30:00.002+01:00

Click the picture above to view a 5 min clip of Steve price and his new DVD. I recommend Steve price and his DVDs as he will show you the best ways to hunt using his vast knowledge and skills.
Shootmore is a fantastic product and it REALLY DOES WORK. All you need is a few drops on and around you and you will greatly improve your chances of getting a rabbit or two.

Try it for yourself .... SHOOTMORE ....you wont be disappointed

New posts on there way.

2009-04-11T17:39:00.003+01:00

Hello and thanks for continuing to visit the D.V.S blog.
I have been putting together some pictures and writing some new posts to put on the blog and i will be uploading then over the comming week.
If you have anything to ask or want somthing posting then dont forget to email me and i will try to add your request to the blog.

Once again thanks for reading.

Richard.

Spring outings.

2009-03-14T19:04:00.013Z

With the warmer weather on its way longer shooting sessions will not be far behind. If you are like me you will getting everything ready for those full day shoots, or like some of us do, weekend shoots. Incorporating our air gun skills with shelter building can lead to a really enjoyable hunting trip. Think back to when we were kids and we headed to the woods to build dens....well this is a skill that can be put to good use in our hide building. If you are roughing it you are doing it wrong ( Ray Mears )....with a little thought you can easily put together a comfortable shooting hide in around 30 minutes using branches, twigs and grass.

Now i have been looking through my long stay hunting bag and i thought i would show you the kind of kit i have. In this post i want to show you what i use to cook on.Its small and compact and most people will have seen one before....

I find this kind of stove is more than enough to boil my water for a hot drink and to heat food whilst in my hide. One solid fuel block burn`s for about 5 minuets and if you use just enough water for your drink, you will have enough time to warm some grub up to.

My fire kit looks like this.... from left to right.....

1. Wax paper : easily takes a spark from the flint striker of a flame from a match. Great tinder.

2. The hexman solid fuel stove. I use it this way round as i find it remains stable. Push it into the ground and you wont loose your fresh boiled water.

3. cotton wool. Again use as tinder for starting your fire. Takes a park easily from the flint striker.

4. Flint striker.

5. Shotgun cartridge match box. Keeps matches dry and you can put tinder into this cartridge and you have a small, compact fire kit that fits in your pocket.

6. windproof lighter.

I also have in my kit a magnifying glass as this is also a very handy tool for fire starting. It also comes in to its own when you have to remove a sting or thorn from your finger.

A useful tip.

2009-03-12T15:13:00.009Z

When we are out shooting we oftern find spent shotgun cartridges scattered under hedges and trees. These can be put to good use for us air gunners, from pellet carrier to waterproof match box.

Take a USED shotgun cartridge and neatly cut off the open end , removing the crimped area of the plastic.
Now, using a cooks torch/burner heat the brass end of a second cartridge until the plastic melts and falls away (fig 1). You are then left with just the brass cap and a slight lining of plastic (fig2). This lining will provide a waterproof seal when put on top of the trimmed cartridge.

FIG 1.

FIG 2.

FIG 3.

You can then fill with pellets, matches or even a small fire starting kit. One thing i have done is filled one with .177 pellets and use this as a magpie call...trust me it works.

SHOOTING SHOW NEWARK

2009-03-01T12:48:00.012Z

Hi guys

well the shooting show was alright

walked straight in with my online tickets .Thank god as the queue was really longheaded in to the show and almost immediately saw a great big screen for shotgun simulation shooting so checked that out for five Min's .then realised the guy was still setting it up so had a wonder round

the amount of shotguns and air rifles was like being in a candy shop ..but as a friend said "you could hold and feel them if you were willing to wait for a while" as the place was rammed and every one was wanting a touch of the gun candy,so went over to were i saw the air gunner magazine logo and saw Sir Terry and Matt the eds of airgun world and air gunner was going to askfor a picky but was distracted when i realised the shooting range behind me so watched it for awhile then turned back and terry was gone

there were loads of guns and cammo gear to mooch over if you were there to buy with price tagsa little higher than expected ..for instance i saw a pair of gamekeepers trousers for £209 in some weird dotted shades of green ..lots of people were getting out there cars with empty rifle slips looking to bag a bargain rifle and to me it looked like many did ...went for a plink on the range

£2 per person ... my eldest lad shot the new Brocock Contour witch was a great little gun ...that reminded me of the ultra in that it was about the same size and the pellet probe worked in much the same way...a very nice gun and accurate as he only missed one Target ...i tried out the HW100 to not great effect as i missed a couple more than my boy did..nothing to do with the gun might i add..a super rifle thou did feel a tiny bit heavier than the 410...great side loading action and worked a treat.my youngest boy used the Brocock AimX pistol with a modified grip that made it a thumb hole stock..and he also did great as well knocking a few targets...

there was a shooting dog display witch was cool then i was pointed in the direction of the Bison and venison Burger stall ...to witch i had Bison with Stilton and my other half had the venison but only managed half the burger to my delight .so had some of that too

this ruddy thing nearly knocked me of my feet as i saw it out the corner of my eye at a distance of three inches while talking on my mobile lol lol

overhaul it was good to be there ..and seeing as it was the first one there is room for improvement

Mike S410

Cup of OXO

2009-03-01T12:22:00.006Z

Hi lads

took myself out today the other day

arrived at the shoot to find quite a nice day really temperature good, wind OK, so figure i wont freeze after my recant outing's . started of by repairing the hide as the wind had damaged it from last time it was repaired ,anyhow did something a little different with the decoys instead of putting them in the one field i was over looking went over the wire and placed three in the horse field

quick zero at around a 30 degree angle upwards as i was looking for the gravity effect and found i needed to have some hold under ,more so at around 70 degree's...so now I'm ready
about half an hour went by with nothing, then all of a sudden while taking a sip from my flask of oxo ,i heard the whisper of wings above ,and sure enough about 10 Woody's landed at once right on top of me but there was nothing i could do as i was at the base of the trunk and it was covered in thick ivy ,one of the reasons why i chose that spot, anyhow my hide stakeout was over looking another tree so i just waited silent,still,with a trigger finger at the ready....it took ten Min's before any other Woody's joined the ones above me and landed in my line of site
got my pigeon after fourty odd Min's and down he came not even a wing flap ..hold under was good very good the kill sent them all batting there wings ,waited a while for them to get out of sight then left the hide to retrieve the bird

cup of oxo and a few thoughts later ..(about twenty Min's)..they were back and i had my second pair of breast's.Now getting a square bum and cold from being motionless for quite some time decided to walk round for a warm up and a bunny within minutes i had spotted my bunny but needed to give it a really wide birth due to the wind not in my favour and no back drop at a certain wide gap in the hedge so backed up 80yrds back the way i came on gave him a big arc to come round behind him using all the cover i could i got to within 60yrds and was more or less stuck for cover till i noticed to my right a lull in the field so backed up again turned right so the lull in the field was between me and him then made my advance to within 40yrds then had to keep really low on all fours .Got another ten yards and had a little breather i was shattered
Slowed every thing down and took the shot over he went with a twitch or two

this is my first effort at a five picture panoramic..... back at the hide from within . you can just see the sitty tree through the top piece of the picture

Thanks guys

Mike S410

News on the site and how things are changing.

2009-02-26T08:32:00.008Z

As the owner and publisher of this site i want to thank you all for visiting and i hope i am posting all the right things for you to read. If there is anything in particular you want me to cover then why not send me a email or post a comment and i will try to include your request in the next batch of posts.

Also i would like to invite you to comment about my site, as this will let me know how best to produce the posts for you all to enjoy. So please take a moment of your time to add your comment or suggestion by CLICKING HERE and letting me know what you think of the site. (Scroll down past the ads to add your post)

You may have noticed that on the right side of the main page there is a new section dedicated to the best shops in the business. These have not been randomly selected and added to my site, but i have sent personal emails to the shops asking them if they wanted to be added to my list. As you can see, BAR (Blackpool Air Rifles) accepted my invitation, and the feedback i got from the shop owner was impressive, thus proving that my site is regarded as a great source of information for air gunners alike, from one of the best shooting suppliers in the business. Others will be added throughout next month.

Also, the forum is now up and running. You can join us in the forum by clicking the picture under the hit counter, and this will take you to the forum home page. Again this has been set up for you all to use as a place to find out answers to questions or just have your say on anything airgun. Why not come and join us, its free to join and you will find that we are all a friendly bunch, with a wealth of information to share. Hope to see you there soon.

Thank you to everyone who has visited over the last 17 months and i hope you all like what i add to the site

Don't forget to add your comments by CLICKING HERE and let me know what you, the readers think of my site. After all, the site is for you all to enjoy and pick up hints, tips and tricks and vital information that will keep you on the right side of the law.

Remember, the best shot is the safest shot. Stay safe and enjoy your hunting.

Richard.

Quarry

2009-02-09T13:21:00.002Z

Brown Rats
Most air gunners' favourite quarry. Ugly, evil and disease spreading, the rat can (and does) live virtually anywhere. Their favourite homes are places such as pig and chicken farms (the older ones with overgrown ditches and so on, and not too much concrete) where ratty makes a very good living off spilled food, bedding and animal dung, but huge colonies also exist covertly in towns and cities. There are some 10 million rats in Britain at present, but despite their numbers, they are usually very timid, and extreme stealth needs to be exercised when hunting them. They are most active at night, but can also be seen scuttling about during the day, particularly on warm overcast evenings. They can be shot all year round, but come the colder winter months more of them will move into farms from the countryside, where their food supplies are dwindling and their lairs losing cover.

Probably the best way to locate rat colonies is by the mess they leave- droppings, spilled food and so on. Rat droppings are grey, torpedo shaped objects around 5mm long, and fresher ones are greyer and shinier. Once a colony is located (or simply when you have access to a good shoot) the next thing to decide is where you will shoot from. Rats are timid, but young ones are fairly stupid and the most basic hide will usually grant you a few kills. Evening and night hunting will usually produce best results (when rats have learned that fewer people will be around), but a few rats should be around at any quiet time, and more can be decoyed out. Mushy cat food is good for this- cheap and fairly convenient to carry around. The lack of chunks means that rats cannot carry the bait away to eat it, and must stay under your gun barrel. For a few days before a hunt it is often well worth baiting a patch of shoot, so that rats come to associate the area with a free feed. Lamping is good, particularly when combined with baiting. Rats are not "scared" of light, but they will be wary of it, so you will need to make the area attractive- go into the lit area and get food, or stay hungry in the dark... Failing this, an ambush can frequently be set up in some of the lighter areas on rats preferred travel routes (for example railings running past food bins). As ever, studying your quarries habits will help enormously.
A problem to be aware of with rats is Weils Disease (Leptospirosis). This is carried by bacteria that spread in rat urine. In rare cases it can be fatal, and its symptoms are broadly flu- like, with headaches, temperature, and joint and muscle pain. Do not handle dead rats- collect the corpses with a stick and burn them. If a rat bites you, or you have the above symptoms, see your doctor at once. (At lease for a tetanus jab).

Rabbits
Rabbits are one of nature's most prolifically breeding species. They are to be found almost anywhere, but they seem to particularly like exposed hillsides to "graze" on, and sandy soil to burrow in. I live in Kent, chalk grassland country, and rabbits are to be found almost anywhere. To find rabbits, search whatever land is available to you- usually, the signs will be obvious- patches of fur and rabbit droppings, huge holes and sometimes well worn paths between them. However, in brambly country rabbits can make very concealed burrows, and have their runs under the top layer of shrubs. These are harder to spot, but a stroll with a torch at night will usually reveal a few bunnies.
Rabbits are particularly wary from Autumn onwards. From late January onwards, most rabbits are breeding and should not really be shot. (You are only spoiling future sport). By March/April, you're likely to find pregnant does, or ones with young families, which again you will only spoil future quarry numbers by shooting. By June or July, however, most of the young rabbits have enough cunning to make a stalk challenging and enjoyable. The long, sunny evenings will let you stalk to plenty of targets, and the long grasses make concealment fairly easy (but easy for the rabbit too). As the evening passes, rabbits will move further and further from their burrows, and will hence move further out of range of cover. Ambushing the warren exits is good at this time, or in areas with sufficient cover, good stalking can be had. If you set out at around 5Pm, you can stalk your shoot, then finish up with an ambush (light allowing) as rabbits head back to their burrows during dusk and darkness. (The only thing is- you must be stealthy getting into ambush position, because if you scare the rabbits it could be an hour or more before they venture back out).
Rabbits are sensitive to weather, and try to feed around storms and similar. So, if you go hunting the night before storms are forecast in your area, you should be rewarded with more bunnies that usual. Head shots are the best, but heart shots can be attempted- see kill zone picture below. Hits in the blue will cause instant death, hits in the yellow death within a few seconds.

Crows
The most "evil" members of the corvid family. Ugly and unpleasant, with big strong beaks and sharp eyes, crows eat the eggs and chicks of songbirds and indeed anything smaller than themselves. They have phenomenal eyesight (they are capable of telling the difference between an unarmed man and a man with a rifle), and also an excellent sense of smell. The John Crow is reputed to be able to smell a dead lizard from approximately 1 mile away. Unsurprisingly, baiting crows in with dead rabbits and similar is a very good tactic, better if the rabbit is slit open as crows (and magpies) are partial to rabbit intestines and eyes. The rabbit should be firmly pegged out, and both crows and magpies should be shot swiftly, as removal of the eyes will render your bait less attractive to other birds. Road kills can be used for baiting, as long as they aren't too squashed.
A good hide is useful in conjunction with a bait. If no bait is available, your hide should be set up near a suitable tree- usually tall and old, and always with a few dead branches or other clear patches at the top (pine and other conifers are particularly popular). In these clear patches crow sentinels will sit and view the surrounding area, so you want to be in your hide before they arrive. If you don't do this, you will scare them off, and they will move to another tree, or maybe even a different area all together.

Magpies
Most of the points that apply to crows apply here also (they are both members of the corvid family), but magpies can be "called"- take a film canister, and half fill it with pellets. Tape the lid down, and when shaken, it will produce a "rattchakk" type of noise which with practice can be made very magpie-like. Try and get their call pattern- 6 short trills, interspersed with single longer trills.
Magpies if anything are more tempted by a rabbit decoy than crows, and they can also lured into range with a decoy owl. Place this on a fencepost or other area where owls are likely to be found, slip into your hide and wait. Magpies, Jays and various other birds will mob the "intruder" and try to drive it off. A flapping owl will work even better. However, be wary- other birds are keen to chase the owl away, and these (e.g. blackbirds) are not legal airgun quarry. Make sure you know what you are shooting!

Grey Squirrels
A handsome and difficult quarry. Squirrels are very sharp eyed, except in autumn when young squirrels can be quite dim. Tactics depend on your shoot- in areas where squirrels are unused to humans and do not appreciate their threat, you should have no trouble in bagging a few, particularly if you can find their preferred routes and feeding places. (Indicated by old nuts, broken twigs,ect). However, as the season advances and young squirrels learn, or if you shoot an area too frequently, they will wise up. Now some classic stalking can be employed. Camouflage is usually required, and faces and hands should be smeared with bars of camouflage paint. Full face netting and a camouflage cap are better still. (Squirrels associate the upturned pink moon of a face with danger, and will be nervous or just run away accordingly).
From their high vantage points, squirrels see almost everything. If cover is limited, getting in range will be a problem, but if you wait patiently and quietly, the squirrel may move within range, or at least move into an area where stalking is possible. If, however, the squirrel catches a glimpse of you, it will probably sprint to the nearest handy tree (if on the ground) and climb about 3M up the trunk. It will be alert, and if it spots you again, it will try and put the trunk of the tree between you and it, and climb up higher. If you have a friend with you, get him or her to attract the squirrel's attention on one side of the tree, and when it sidles to the other side of the tree, you can be waiting for it. However, if the squirrels are more nervous-natured, they will just sprint for the deepest cover and you will have a hell of a job winkling them out.

Wood pigeon
These birds are very tough, but not too observant. They like to rest and roost in thick trees, and spotting them is a tricky problem. All too often, you are only alerted to their presence when they fly off with a loud clatter of wings and a crashing of twigs. That said, once spotted, they are fairly easy to stalk as long as you are quiet and careful, and wearing face camo. If the bird you spot is asleep, you won't need to be so careful, but I don't really think that it's sporting to shoot sleeping birds. It's up to you. (Anyhow, be aware- the bird you are stalking may be surrounded by four or five other birds, one of whom is likely to see you as you are unaware of it. Off it goes, and the others hear the racket and follow it. Try and stalk birds that are definitely on their own, and also be aware that a wood pigeon with its head under its wing can look a lot like an old stump of branch).

A wood pigeons breast is armoured with thick feathers, and it will be further protected by a crop stuffed with grain or other food. (Wood pigeons can frequently be found in stubble fields, cleaning up the last of the years crop, or starting into next years). Only go for the chest if you are sure you can hit the heart- never underestimate the toughness of these birds (and crows). A pigeon shot through the lungs will probably die eventually anyway, but it is your duty as a hunter to kill it as cleanly as possible. If possible, aim for the base of the neck (or the back or side of the head itself), or failing this a shot through the shoulders with a big pellet (preferably hollow point or flat head) should put the bird straight down. The first shot often numbs the bird, and can make it impervious to further shots, so make the first one count. After death, woodies often twitch quite a lot. If you are not sure that they are totally dead, shoot them directly in the head or heart, or wring their neck.

Stalking....a basic guide.

2009-02-09T13:12:00.001Z

Stalking is the only thing that will really allow you to become good at hunting. No matter how accurate you are, shooting accurately with an (12 ft lbs) air rifle at ranges longer than 45 odd metres is extremely difficult/ impossible, so you must get closer to your target. How?-- by stalking. Part of the secret of stalking is camouflage- not just the clothing, but moving so that you blend in. For this reason, always walk slowly and don't make sudden movements when quarry is in the area, wear cammo clothing if you have it (including gloves and cap) and put dark bars of cammo paint on your face. Human hands and faces are pink / white- for this reason, squirrels and birds have come to associate moving patches of pink and upraised patches of pink (upturned faces) as threatening, so make sure that your hands and face are as obscured as possible, and don't hang around staring into trees! Be quiet, too- if you hunt in pairs or groups, don't talk to your companions except when essential. Be quiet when closing car doors before you enter your shoot. Rest assured that rabbits and other wild creatures will know this sound and be wary of it. Even young animals will be basically wary of any loud noises such as this.

When creeping up on your target, always approach from downwind. Even if your quarry cannot smell you, there may well be other creatures in the area that can, and will stampede, scaring off your target. Be wary of pigeons in trees, especially at night. These are hard to spot, especially in thick vegetations, and when alerted, fly off with huge noise of wings and cracking of branches. This will alert other animals in the area. Before you put all your weight down, make sure that there are no dead twigs or leaves under your feet that will crunch or crackle when you put the rest of your weight down. If stalking through dry leaves, quietly and SLOWLY brush clear patches for your feet with your feet.

Again, stalking is all about practice. At first, you are bound to be disappointed- you set foot in one side of a wood, and all game leaves via the other side! (or so it will seem). Trust me, with practice and an understanding of the areas you hunt in, you will improve. In time, you will recognise the inevitable moments when your target becomes spooked, and stop moving, blending into the background. The rabbit relaxes again, and on you go, closer and closer until finally you are within a safe range, and your finger can caress the trigger.

Stances...for those who dont know.

2009-02-09T13:04:00.002Z

There are four basic stances- standing, sitting, crouching (or kneeling) and prone. They all have good points and bad points, but you will need to know them all. Incidentally, all stances have different recoil characteristics, so there is little point in zeroing from prone position if you tend to hunt from a standing position. That said, I prefer to zero firstly from the prone or sitting positions, then move to standing position (which I usually hunt from) and finalise my zero. (N.B- these are the stances that work for me. You may find that you have to alter them slightly to your style of hunting or situation, or even to your strength/ stature etc.) When moving into any position, you should wait for your breathing and heart rate to settle down before firing.

Standing
This stance is the most commonly used stance in hunting. It is not the most stable of stances, and so should not be held for too long- ideally, less than five seconds. I.e. quarry is spotted, crosshairs placed on target, half breathe out and fire shot. If the rifle is held too long on target, muscle shakes will occur, especially if your combination is heavy (although this occurs in some degree whatever the stance). The standing stance is useful because it can always be assumed under any conditions, and it also gives good elevation to see quarry for example over a rise in the ground. The standing stance is best assumed as follows:

Place your feet about shoulder width apart at 90 degrees to your target. Raise the rifle butt into your right shoulder (or vice versa if left handed), and hold it there with the left hand on the forestock, pulling the gun into your shoulder. Grip the chin down on the cheekpiece of the rifle to lock everything solid, and to bring the sightline from the eye through the centre of the scope optics and onto the target. The trigger finger should be placed on the trigger, and the rest of the trigger hand can be wrapped around the pistol grip of the weapon, though little if any force should be exerted to support the weight of the weapon with this hand. Make sure the eye is not too close to the rear lens of the scope, or recoil could cause it to hit you in the face. The rifle can now be swung about the body, covering at least 60º to either side of the line to your target. If a shot needs to be held for a long time (and this does happen), the left hand can be pulled back along the forestock of the rifle, and the left upper arm and elbow can be rested against the chest to prop the weight of the gun. This does however cause problems due to the effects of heartbeat on the arm resting against the chest.

Sitting
This is the most stable and accurate of stances, but circumstances mean that there is seldom time to use this stance while hunting- it has more relevance to Field Target shooting.
Sit on the ground, again at 90º or so to your quarry. Bring the left foot close to the left side of the body, and allow the left knee to rise up towards your face. The right foot can either be curled towards the left side of the body (behind the left foot), but keeping the right knee flat to the ground, or it can be simply left to stick out in front of the body with the right knee slightly raised. Either way, it supports the stance. The gun is then shouldered in the same way as above, but the left elbow can be rested on the left knee to support the weight of the gun and give good stability. Reloading is easiest in this stance if the gun is broken with the left hand, and the pellet inserted with the left hand.

Crouching
This stance is only really used when the standing or sitting stances are impractical (e.g. a branch is in the way of a standing shot, and there is no time to take a sitting position). It is slightly more stable than a standing position due to the lower centre of gravity, but not as stable as a sitting position. It is a hard stance to describe, being mainly taken due to instinct.
Crouch down on your haunches with both knees out in front of you. Shoulder the rifle as described in the standing stance. Your feet will only be in contact with the ground at the front half of your shoes, and you cannot rest an elbow on your knees, so this stance is not a long term stance either.

Prone
This stance is very accurate and stable, but is again seldom practical due to time considerations. However, if your stalking is good and you make good use of landscape features, it can be a very useful stance. (For example, if you crawl up to a bank of earth behind which you know rabbits tend to be found, this stance allows you to just poke your rifle and your head over the bank and fire away).

Lie down flat on the ground with the rifle out in front of you. Your quarry should ideally be a little to the left of the line of your body- the rifle and the body should not form a straight line. The left elbow should be placed in front of the body, and the right elbow a little closer to the body. The weight of the rifle and upper body should rest on the two elbows. Again, the left arm will pull the rifle into the shoulder, and the cheek will hold it in place, together with the right hand on the pistol grip. You may find that the right hand will rest against the cheek.
Reloading from this position can be a problem. With practice, the left hand can break the rifle (assuming you are using a springer) and insert the pellet without removing the elbow from the ground (it helps to keep your pellets in a pouch on the rifle or somewhere else handy). Alternatively, you can rise to a crouching position to reload, then lower yourself back to the prone position to fire.

Night shooting.

2009-02-09T12:42:00.002Z

The majority of daytime hunting practices apply at night too, but the emphasis from our point of view is more on reducing noise and smell than on camouflage. However, just because we cannot see well at night, it does not mean that our quarry cannot see us. Most animals have greater visual acuity at night than humans, as animals have more rod cells in their eyes. (Humans have more cone cells- these mean that we can see more colours than animals during the day, but at night rod cells are of more use). Animals are generally better adapted to night conditions than we are, so extreme care must be taken that we hunt even more quietly than usual. (The quiet nights in the countryside mean that any noise will carry further and attract more attention at night than during the day).

Alright, then- animals can hunt by smell and sound as well as by sight, but we are limited mainly to sight. Therefore, some form of lamp is necessary for almost all night hunting. During the summer months, a large front ended scope (e.g.. the 56mm front lens "Moonlighters") permits hunting up to and sometimes past the hour of dusk, but come September, there just isn't enough light for a scope to gather. So, a lamp is required. Alternatively, if you are relatively wealthy, some form of light amplification/ Infra red gear can be used. However, this gear (usually ex military or military derived) is expensive and delicate. Personally, I prefer a good gun lamp. It needs to be powerful enough to get a good concise beam at 50 odd yards (depending on your hunting range), but not so powerful that rabbits etc. will be blinded and forced to run away. There is little point in using a filter- rabbits are effectively colourblind, and will be wary whatever the colour of the light. The headlamps used by sea anglers to bait up etc. when night fishing are too weak for any range of hunting. I don't make brand suggestions, you must try and see what is right for you. If you hunt alone, a light that clips to your scope is usually the best option, though it can be useful to have a separate torch so you don't have to keep swinging the rifle around and tire yourself unnecessarily. I hunt frequently with a friend, and we often take one torch and one (or two) guns between us. Torch man sweeps, holds the light steady on the target (standing in front of rifleman to avoid light backwash) and provides a back up shot should the first shot miss or wound. (Torch man passes light to friend and shoulders own rifle, assuming that you are hunting with a single shot weapon).

The way to lamp in my experience is to enter your shoot very quietly, then swiftly but steadily sweep the lamp/ secondary torch from side to side to pick out the gleam of a rabbits' eyes. Do not hold the light on the rabbit until you are close enough to shoot- sweep, stalk towards the closest pair of eyes, sweep again occasionally. When within range, lock the light on your target, check again that it is a rabbit (many nocturnal animals such as foxes and badgers have similar eye shine) and shoot. If your quarry starts to move at any time when you are within range, try and keep the light between it and its burrow , as it will be less keen to run through the lighted area. If it is not too spooked, take the light off it again and it may stop- you may get a better chance later. As in daytime, you must judge how close you can get by scoping the bunny occasionally and seeing how nervous it looks. If it is head down and eating you are alright, but if it is up on its hind legs and scanning the area stay dead still until it settles again. Rabbits eyes are wide mounted on the head to watch a large area, so be careful- rabbits can see you while looking almost directly away from you. Movement is the key here- keep all movements slow and deliberate. If you are motionless and slightly camouflaged, very few animals can see you (rabbits are not one of them), but if you move, peripheral vision and the fact that you are not behaving in the same way as the background will make you far easier to spot.

As always, much depends upon your shoot and your "type" of rabbit- some will run the second the light brushes them, and others (usually the younger ones) will remain eating and unconcerned until you are barely 20 yards away. More practice with range estimation is required at night as darkness distorts distances- at first, you are likely to find yourself shooting high.

A light breeze is useful to provide background noise, and also to provide some movement in the background, hopefully making your movements less obvious. Weather conditions have little effect on rabbits- I have shot them in pouring rain and on beautiful warm evenings. As usual, study your shoot to find the times and weather conditions they prefer. In really heavy rain, the scent trails that rabbits use to find their ways to their burrows can be washed away, and you may find them stranded in fields unsure of where safety lies. Be wary of wood pigeons roosting in trees- they are extremely difficult to see at night, but when they see or here you nearby they will crash out of the trees with a cawing and a fluttering and this does not aid stealth and subtlety. One final point is do not fire unless you are pretty sure of a hit- at night, the crack of a miss (even with a suppressed air rifle) can carry a fair way, and can spoil further hunting.

Sutton Models and Hobbies

2009-02-08T16:16:00.013Z

Please note : The website for this shop is down at the moment but i will update this when its back up and running. The phone number at the bottom of this post works and these are the opening times :
MON- 10 till 5
TUE- 10 till 3
WED- CLOSED
THUR- 10 till 5
FRI- 10 till 5
SAT- 10 till 4
SUN- CLOSED

Admin.

Hi guys

I feel my local gun centre needs a mention

For some time now i have used them for numerous air gunning pieces of kit and have also shared this diamond place with friends for the purchase of there air rifle's/knife's and other air gunning accessories

A friendly place to visit with a world of knowledge behind the counter together with a great after sales service and for those who like big boys toys they also specialise in radio controlled cars,trucks etc. and accessories

A couple of pictures showing the shop and there large selection of rifles

The latest addition by the Duckmanton Vermin Services Team

Purchased from ....Sutton Models and Hobbies

you can contact

Craig,Lynn,Kier or Roger for your friendly sales experience on
01623 557812 or visit there website at http://www.suttonmodelshobbies.co.uk/

Mike S410

The air rifle law and what you should know.

2009-02-08T11:15:00.003Z

I know we are all used to reading about the changes in the law regarding air rifles, but i thought i would add it here for those who are not aware of the changes made to the rules over the last year or so.

The Firearms Acts 1968-97
Airguns in the UK are subject to the firearms acts, under the Firearms (Dangerous air weapons) rules 1969 they are classified as low powered Air Weapons and as such they are restricted to a maximum power of 12 foot pounds force for a rifle and 6 foot pounds force for a pistol. Above 12ftlb a rifle is classified as a Section 1 Firearm and requires a licence called a firearms certificate, and a pistol above 6ftlb is again a Section 1 Firearm requiring a firearms certificate in the UK. The definition of a firearm under the act is "a lethal barrelled weapon of any description from which any shot, bullet or other missile can be discharged" it further defines "lethal weapon" as "a weapon capable of firing a projectile with sufficient force to inflict more than a trivial injury i.e. with sufficient force to puncture skin". The Home Office consider the lowest level of muzzle energy capable of inflicting a penetrating wound is one foot pound (1.35 joules) hence guns producing less than 1ft/lb are not covered by the act and therefore not classified as air weapons or subject to any restrictions. The 1997 Firearms Amendment Act made handguns illegal in the UK but Air Weapons were excluded under Section 5 (1) subsection (aba) "a prohibited weapon includes a firearm with a barrel length less than 30cms and an overall length less than 60cms, other than an air weapon, a muzzle loading gun, or a firearm designed as signalling apparatus".

UK Legal Limit
To calculate the power of an airgun you need to use a chronograph to measure the speed of the pellet (in feet per second) when fired, and you need to know the weight of the pellet in grains. Once you have that information you perform the following calculation: - speed (ft/sec) X speed (ft/sec) X weight (grains) 450240 this gives you the result in foot pounds force (ft-lb). As mentioned the legal maximum for an unlicensed air rifle is 12 ft-lb which from changing round the above formula, gives the approximate values as follows:- A .22 pellet weighing 14.4 grains, maximum permissible speed is 612 ft/sec A .177 pellet weighing 7.9 grains, maximum permissible speed is 826 ft/sec The corresponding figures for a pistol are 433 ft/sec for a .22 and 584 ft/sec for a .177 The pellet weights used in the above calculation are typical weights for the sizes of pellet but you must always check the actual weight of your pellet before performing your own calculation.

Purchasing Guns and Ammunition
The laws concerning the purchase of guns and ammunition are as follows:-
Any person under the age of 18 years of age may not purchase or own guns or ammunition.
Persons aged between 14 and 18 years may not purchase guns or ammunition but may borrow or have them purchased on their behalf by some one over 18 years of age.
Persons over the age of 18 years may purchase guns and ammunition, the guns having a power less than the UK legal limit. Guns over that limit require a fire arms certificate to be granted before they can be owned.

Airguns and Young Persons
The laws concerning the use of airguns by young persons are as follows:-
Any one under the age of 14 can only use an airgun whilst under the direct supervision and control of someone over 21, whilst on private property with the permission of the owner of the premises.
A person aged between 14 and 18 can use an airgun on private property where they have a right to be, without supervision.
They may carry an unloaded rifle (but not a pistol) in a public place only if it is in a securely fastened gun cover so that it cannot be fired, an under 14 year old must again be directly supervised by an over 21 year old.
A pistol can only be carried by someone over 18, again it must be unloaded and in a securely fastened case.

Public Places and Highways
You may never have an airgun in a public place without proper reason for doing so. If you are travelling to and from a place where you have the right to shoot, the gun must be in a case as above. A gun is loaded if there is a pellet or any form of projectile in it, including an "air weapon which has a loaded magazine, is loaded even though there is no round in the breach". It is an offence to fire an airgun within 50 feet of the centre of a public highway, if by doing so you cause any member of the public using that highway to be injured, interrupted or endangered. This applies even if you are on private property adjacent the highway. Public highways include roads, bridleways and public footpaths.

Trespass
If you go on to any land, including over water and in buildings, without permission you are Trespassing. If you have an Airgun with you it is classed as Armed Trespass which is a serious Criminal offence even if the gun is not loaded.

Airgun Prey
The following pests are considered suitable for controlling using a sub-12 ft-lb Airgun. Brown Rat, Grey Squirrel, Rabbit, Crow, Rook, Magpie, Jay, Wood pigeon, Collared Dove, Feral Pigeon, House mouse, and recently Mink have been added to the list. These are not always considered pests and only Authorised Persons can shoot them in all circumstances. Please check with your local authority before shooting any live quarry.

Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981
All bird and animals are protected by law. Certain species are classified as pests or vermin and only these species can be legitimately shot and then only by authorised persons. An Authorised Person is someone who has the proper permission from the land owner to control pests on that land.

Rabbit hunting tips.

2009-02-08T10:18:00.003Z

Rabbit hunting is a practice spread all around the world due to the range of habitats the rabbit has, allowing hunters worldwide to enjoy hunting for them. Although it might seem like an easy task, compared maybe to other types of hunting, rabbit hunting requires more accuracy, skills and tactics than most others. Some may argue that a small, furry creature like the rabbit can't possibly be any challenge for a fairly experienced hunter, but the truth is these animals have some aces up their sleeves and do know how to use them.

Furthermore, the rabbit's best and well-known weapon is its agility, speed which is critical in its survival in the wild as well. Its powerful back legs help the rabbit reach impressive velocity and you will often be surprised as to how fast they can sprint when jumping through a bush you've just come to close to. Another matter regarding their quickness is the fact that they never run in a line, but prefer making a confusing array of movements while running. But sometimes this strategy confuses them too and they end up running in a complete circle, so being patient may lead to having an easy shot instead of a tiring chase. In addition, they have pretty good stamina, which means that they can keep running for a reasonably long time without slowing down their pace at all.

An added thing that makes it difficult to successfully hunt rabbits is their ability to camouflage their presence in many types of terrain. They've adapted so that their fur matches the color of the inhabited territory perfectly. Also, being rather small in size, they manage to escape unseen even through thin bushes and other kind of cover, but usually do not wait for anyone to get close to their hide-out and run energetically when they sense the slightest sign of danger. That is why rabbit hunting should always be done in a quiet and slow manner, but at the same time being conscientious and prepared. This guides us to the rabbit's best form of defense, its highly developed senses.

Surviving in such harsh environment and with so many predators, has forced the small animal to develop not only remarkable speed and camouflage abilities, but also exceptionally perceptive senses. The rabbit's outer shell clearly indicates its keen sense of hearing, being able to hear sounds from miles away, but the other senses are just as noteworthy. For example, their sense of smell is so sharp that they can smell food that is bellow the ground. Also, their eyesight is exceptionally accurate, especially during the night time, in detecting predators from a long distance. Overall, using these hyper-senses the rabbit can manage to escape predators and hunters and many times even completely avoiding them.

All things considered, rabbit hunting is not a walk in the park and requires higher attentiveness and skill for it to be a successful experience. In other words, rabbit hunting distinguishes itself as an independent and unique practice, due to the very few aspects that links it to other hunting varieties.

My new kit.

2009-01-31T10:49:00.009Z

The Stormkloth jacket and trousers i got for my birthday were put to the test yesterday. To be honest i haven't really been drawn in to the Realtree clothing range as i feel happy with the DPM (Disruptive Pattern Material) kit that is available from many outlets and cheap. That all changed the moment i put on the new stormkloth kit and looking at them you would not imagine they would keep me warm on this very cold and frosty morning. Waterproof, windproof and incredibly warm all from lightweight micro fleece kit, they get my vote 10/10.

Picture 1 : Stormkloth make thin but incredibly warm fabric. My jacket has kept me warm even in -6 temperatures and i was able to lay on the totally frozen ground, for 2 hours,during a rabbit shoot. I did not get get cold or wet at all. 10/10 for warmth and waterproofing.

Picture 2 : Shows the inner lining and the Realtree hardwood green pattern.

Picture 3 : Good size pockets on the jacket, only 2 though, none inside.

Picture 4 : 6 good size pockets on the trousers, 2 on the leg, 2 back and 2 side.

Todays speed paunch

2009-01-28T20:41:00.006Z

Todays shoot.

As promised, today was the day for a volunteer bunny.

I arived at the farm at 10.00am, let the farmer know i was around and set off down the fields to our prime rabbit spot. The three days of heavy rain had waterlogged most of the fields, but the rabbits and pigeons were out looking for food and having a warm in the morning sun. As i was walking along the hedgerow i spotted three potential volunteers running about at the top of the field. So ,very quietly i started the to crawl the 20 yards to get within range of a big rabbit, eating the tops of the oil seed rape shoots. I had a short wait as i didnt have a good side on head shot but when he did turn round, that was it "THWAK".

A .22 Bisley Super field from my HW80K smacked hard on target and it fell where it stood

The other two bolted when the pellet hit the rabbits head. So, that was that....one volunteer for the speed paunch.

Click the pic for the video of the speed paunch

The rabbit was paunched sucsessfully and i left the fur and guts for the buzzards.

Once i was back at the farm i had a quick walk around the area we know has a rat nest. Within minutes i had one, a big one at that. I couldnt get a good head shot but the back of its head and neck were visable. One shot and he quit kicking

Quite a good morning really. 1 Rabbit, 1 big rat and another collared dove on the bird feeders when i got back home.

Project Mag-Light

2009-01-22T17:23:00.011Z

Hi Guys

been working on a little project..........

having had my logun lamp for a while now and paid for two new bulbs at a cost of £15 and £17 but the replacement bulbs are just not bright enough because of different voltage witch i have spoke of before .so i decided to convert a mag lite as these are brilliant torches and bulbs are readily available two at around £1 (cheep as chips) compared...at the moment i begrudge buying another lamp having forked out for the logun so i set about it, got my soldering iron out ,hack saw ,and drill, few nuts and bolts some wire and a female connection block that fitted my original lamp cable.

My dads mag light witch as a child i used as a light saber shining it in the sky at night.

Inner works soldered in ready for positioning.

Old one,(logun lamp) new one and cut off piece.

Shorter but a little heavier.

Showing how it's powered with my original logun lamp cable.

All but finished ...a lick of matt black and an end cap to seal.

The beam really does go out to WELL OVER 30-40-50-60-70 yards with a narrow beam so perfect for the odd bunny bash session.

And it should last 5 hours running of the Logun battery .....

Will soon c ......

Mike S410