Your first day game shooting!

Published on January 5, 2017
Duration: 18:39

This video provides a comprehensive guide for a beginner's first day of game shooting, detailing the entire process from waking up to the end of the day. It covers essential preparations, etiquette on the shoot, safety protocols, the structure of drives, and the social aspects of a shoot day, including refreshments and lunch. The expert emphasizes the importance of safety and enjoying the experience, even if shooting success is limited.

Quick Summary

On your first game shooting day, expect an early start filled with excitement. You'll typically arrive at a shoot lodge for a brief, receive safety instructions, and then proceed to designated shooting pegs for several 'drives'. Mid-morning refreshments ('11s') and a substantial lunch are usually part of the day, offering social interaction with fellow guns and the shoot staff.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to a Shoot Day
  2. 00:39Morning Preparations and Excitement
  3. 01:21Breakfast and Gear Check
  4. 01:53Arrival at the Shoot Lodge
  5. 02:42Choosing Pegs for the Drive
  6. 03:29The Shoot Brief and Safety
  7. 04:01Peg Rotation Explained
  8. 04:36Moving to the First Peg
  9. 04:51Starting the First Drive
  10. 05:16Live on the Whistle vs. Live on Peg
  11. 05:38Ending the Drive and Gun Safety
  12. 06:00Etiquette: Not Wiping Eyes
  13. 07:07Shooting Arc and Safety Zones
  14. 07:33First Drive Nerves and Excitement
  15. 07:53Post-Drive Procedures
  16. 08:24Post-Drive Conversation
  17. 09:25Moving to the Second Drive
  18. 10:01Rules for Shooting During a Drive
  19. 10:47Second Peg Experience
  20. 11:01The Left and Right Shot
  21. 12:08Mid-Morning Refreshments: 11s
  22. 12:51The Third Drive: Killing or Show Drive
  23. 14:38Lunch Break
  24. 16:08The Last Drive of the Day
  25. 16:44End of the Day and Goodbyes
  26. 17:12Tipping the Gamekeeper
  27. 18:13Post-Shoot Activities and Gun Storage
  28. 18:30Conclusion: A Great First Day

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect on my first day of game shooting?

On your first game shooting day, expect an early start filled with excitement. You'll typically arrive at a shoot lodge for a brief, receive safety instructions, and then proceed to designated shooting pegs for several 'drives'. Mid-morning refreshments ('11s') and a substantial lunch are usually part of the day, offering social interaction with fellow guns and the shoot staff.

What are the essential safety rules for game shooting?

Key safety rules include always being aware of your shooting arc (typically 45 degrees), never shooting low birds, and ensuring your gun is unloaded and broken when not in use. It's also crucial to know the location of other guns and avoid 'wiping someone's eye' by shooting birds they've already targeted.

What is the role of a gamekeeper and why is tipping them important?

The gamekeeper manages the estate's game population and grounds throughout the year, making the shoot day possible. Tipping the gamekeeper is a traditional gesture of appreciation for their hard work and dedication, acknowledging their role in the success of the shoot.

What is '11s' in the context of game shooting?

'11s' refers to the mid-morning refreshments served during a game shooting day, typically around 11 AM. This break often includes hearty snacks like pork pies, sausages, and cake, providing a welcome pause and social opportunity for the guns.

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