The Classic Driven Game Shoot - Forthampton

Published on February 9, 2025
Duration: 21:25

This video details a classic driven game shoot at Forthampton, focusing on pheasant and partridge. It explores the history and evolution of driven shooting in Britain, from its European influences and early forms to the impact of breech-loading firearms and modern commercial shooting. The experience highlights the social aspect of game shooting, the importance of camaraderie, and the practicalities of shooting in varied weather conditions, emphasizing that traditional methods and well-executed drives offer significant enjoyment.

Quick Summary

Driven shooting in Britain has European origins, influenced by continental 'grand battues' from the 1830s-1840s. The adoption of breech-loading firearms in the mid-19th century significantly boosted its popularity by enabling faster reloading and larger bags.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Forthampton Shoot
  2. 00:43Driven Pheasant and Partridge Shooting
  3. 01:16First Peg Nerves and Strategy
  4. 01:55The Drive Begins: Bird Speed and Accuracy
  5. 02:36Evaluating the Ground and Bird Flight
  6. 03:04Crossers and Shooting Angles
  7. 03:32End of the First Drive
  8. 04:14Camaraderie and Atmosphere
  9. 04:31Second Drive: Traditional Partridge Shoot
  10. 04:58Challenging Shooting Arena
  11. 05:31Variety of Drives for Different Shooters
  12. 05:56History of Pheasant Shooting
  13. 06:35European Influence on Driven Shooting
  14. 07:00Evolution of Driven Shoots
  15. 07:55Impact of Breech Loaders
  16. 08:12Gamekeeping and Royal Patronage
  17. 09:08Driven Shooting Becomes Popular
  18. 09:30Impact of World Wars on Shooting
  19. 10:09Traditional Partridge Drive Experience
  20. 10:37Reading Bird Flight and Commitments
  21. 11:35Mid-day Game Meet and Socializing
  22. 12:07Importance of Single Peg Days
  23. 12:33The Thistles Drive
  24. 12:48Traditional Drive Setup
  25. 13:03Post-WWI Economic and Social Changes
  26. 13:36Impact of World War II
  27. 13:53The Rise of the Let Day
  28. 14:11Commercial Shooting and High Bird Popularity
  29. 14:38Decline of Traditional Shooting Styles
  30. 15:04Current State of Shooting Popularity
  31. 15:23Focusing on the Drive
  32. 16:01Evolution vs. Tradition in Shooting Attire
  33. 17:25End of the Drive and Socializing
  34. 18:06Ensuring Shooting Opportunities for All
  35. 18:39Drive Management and Bird Placement
  36. 19:19Reflections on the Day's Shooting
  37. 19:35Choke Adjustments and Ammunition
  38. 20:14Conclusion: Game Shooting Today
  39. 20:50Thanks and Channel Support

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the historical origin of driven shooting in Britain?

Driven shooting in Britain has European origins, influenced by continental 'grand battues' from the 1830s-1840s. This practice involved driving birds towards stationary guns, a method adopted to achieve larger bags of game.

How did breech-loading firearms impact game shooting?

The introduction of breech-loading firearms in the mid-19th century revolutionized game shooting. It allowed for much faster reloading and the use of double-barreled guns, making large-scale shooting and bigger bags significantly more popular and feasible.

What is the significance of 'let days' in shooting?

Following World War II, 'let days' became a common practice. This involves selling shooting days to clients to subsidize the costs of maintaining shoots, contributing to the growth of commercial shooting operations.

Why is traditional shooting attire still relevant?

Traditional attire like tweed is practical for shooting. It's waterproof, warm, and temperature-regulating, made from natural fibers. Its cut also allows for freedom of movement, essential for country pursuits.

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