Thread: The Winchester Rifle: Part 2

I woke early to the sound of heavy wind and rain beating down on the tin hut roof, so I made myself a coffee and sat back on my bunk, admiring the rifle leant against the wall.

I had purchased this rifle privately,only a month after my .308 ,It was a Winchester model 94ae in 30-30. It was again an immaculate rifle,like new. The slim feeling of these rifles make them a pleasure to carry, and in my mind makes them ideal for bush stalking.
Since owning this rifle I have taken it on many stalks, or ‘rifle walks’ ,and after numerous attempts I hadn’t had any success.

This was the 2nd model 94 I had ever owned,the first I’d purchased was many years ago. A weather beaten rifle, the exterior was rough and the stock worn but it functioned flawlessly, the rear sight blade was missing but it was adequate for close range, very close range.

Theres one hunt that I remember vividly, it still remains today as one of my most memorable. It was the Roar,a regular hunting mate and myself decided to take the old Winchester into the bush to see how it goes.

We had been stalking for an hour or so when we came upon an open area of bush and decided to sit down for a rest,instantly my mate heard a noise, and cautiously indicated that we should give a roar. Immediately a stag replied and we could hear definite movement coming our way. Another roar gave me the opportunity to lever the rifle and place the hammer into the half cock position. It wasn’t long before I got a full view of the stag, his nose held high checking the air as he walked in our direction.

I would normally have taken the shot then if I’d had a scoped rifle,the distance being around 50 yards, however with the open sights and blade missing I needed the stag to come closer.

Being cautious not to give ourselves away I gave a soft roar, enough to provoke the stag’s curiosity, and a chance to cock the hammer to full. The stag instantly stormed in with some purpose. Swiftly I lifted the rifle. The first shot hit square in the shoulder, the stag stumbled and then my 2nd shot was then hurriedly placed in the neck.

I still recall today the feeling of excitement, relief and the elation as I realised what had just unfolded.It had all happened so quickly but it felt like slow motion.

I only ever shot 1 deer with that rifle ,so to date my tally still stands at 1 with the iconic Winchester lever gun. I often recall this story with glee and pleasure. One hell of a good hunt in bloody good company.