Thursday, April 22, 2010

English style

The UK and continental Europe oftentimes feature "driven hunts."  Beaters (traditionally handlers with their dogs) drive the game toward the shooters at the ends of the field.  The driven hunt is typically thought of as an elegant affair for the aristocracy using collectible-quality firearms. 

In contrast, rough shooting typically features a man in his tweeds and wellies and his faithful dog.  Mike Swan's book (first published in 2000) is a how-to that has chapters on guns, clothing, the dog, and how to comport yourself around the woods.         


"In most people's minds the first choice [of the rough shooter] is a spaniel, of which the English springer is the most popular. The best spaniels are eternal optimists in even the most barren country, hunting the roughest cover all day long, remaining close so that game is flushed in shot and retrieving the spoils to hand beautifully."

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