Thread: Need help for newbie

Hey everyone, my name is George, I am 16 years old and I have never done any hunting before but I am really keen to give it a go. I am wanting to start off with doing some rabbit hunting (because its cheaper) but I would love to do some deer and tahr hunting. Can anyone give me some tips on how to start? I know I need a gun license and to learn gun safety. What rifle should I get? Cheapest option would be best. Even if someone would be able to sell me one of their old rifles, I am in the Christchurch area. Also would anyone be able let me tag along on a hunt they are doing, that would be awesome.

Hi George.

Think about a light recoiling rifle like a .243, 6mm creedmoor, 6.5 creedmoor, 7mm08. Google felt recoil, free recoil and you'll get the picture. If you go for a heavy recoiling rifle it won't kill the deer any deader because you'll be more likely to miss them. Read a lot of the posts on here, there are plenty on getting started hunting. Learn about deer and goat habits, what they like to eat and just start exploring your local bush so when you are set up you have started the learning curve.

And get a job that will keep you in bullets. Even better, get a job on a farm that has a rabbit problem so you have a place to hunt them, as you can't take a .22 onto DOC land.

Get yourself a good air rifle to practice shooting with. One with a good light trigger (trust me, it will help a lot).

Do all of this in the reverse order listed!

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Thanks for the reply I really appreciate it. I have been applying for hundreds of jobs but nobody really wants to hire a 16 year old with no experience. I will keep trying though. Do you have any advice for me to get a job on a farm, there are not any jobs on job websites for a farm position that I would be able do.

Originally Posted by george_coote

Thanks for the reply I really appreciate it. I have been applying for hundreds of jobs but nobody really wants to hire a 16 year old with no experience. I will keep trying though. Do you have any advice for me to get a job on a farm, there are not any jobs on job websites for a farm position that I would be able do.

go door knocking on the farmers doors.100 percent the best way when dealing with farmers.Farmers are a different breed to townies.an intro hand shake and you'll be half way there.

Thanks for the reply. How do I know what farms to visit? Should I go to a dairy farm or a beef and lamb farm? My dad works on a beef and lamb farm for Pamu but in the Manawatu (in Tangimoana)

Study the arms code. You can't really own guns until 18. Maybe you could join a smallbore rifle club and develop good skills and make some important contacts

Originally Posted by george_coote

Thanks for the reply. How do I know what farms to visit? Should I go to a dairy farm or a beef and lamb farm? My dad works on a beef and lamb farm for Pamu but in the Manawatu (in Tangimoana)

I know think I know the farm, that farm has sambar moving through it.also will have heaps of rabbits/hares.if you're in in contact with dad that's the best place to start.if you are based In Manawatu and start on deer I can take you for a shot at something.

You are a bit stuck until you get your firearms license. Cant even buy an air rifle , which would be a good introduction to firearms and shooting - you need a license if you are 16 to 18 to own an air rifle ........

Hop on your push bike and go ride down a rural road and talk to anyone you see. Rural people are generally pretty open and you will soon find a farmer who wants has thistles chipped or similar work they never get to.

Dont be discouraged - if the first guy says no move on down the road.