Thread: Brace Yourself

I recently bought a nice O/U which equates to "another" shotgun (at the expense of a rifle)in the cupboard. My reason was simple enough- I couldn't guarantee my old Lanber was steel proofed and I want to shoot some high quality ducks. Now before anyone gives me any advice about checking for proof marks or going to a reputable gunsmith- just consider...... I wanted a new shotgun. Most here would agree a half dozen isn't enough and nor could it be considered a problem. I am now willing to admit there is probably a problem and dealing with problems starts by admitting it.

COMPETITION

Anyhow this thread isn't about me it's about you. I'll work on the finer details but essentially this is a thread and photo based competition revolving around two birds and whatever else guns gear and dog wise you like.

The main thing people need to understand is that I am god when it comes to this thread and judging. If I can track down some sponsors I will consider giving them sub god entitlements with varying amounts of power limiting them to FA really.

Now thats out of the way- I'd like this to be inclusive. Not all of us shoot limits or have the flashiest gear, but we all take pride in what we do, we all have an equal place in the sport and I am hoping this is where that can be shared in a fun artistic way.

General Rules
This thread is a maximum of two birds per gun per entry- red cards issued otherwise. This is also a modern politically correct competition in that same sex braces get preferential treatment. For those that buy shooting and Eastern Region hunters hen pheasants get a red card. This has nothing to do with my bias or tradition nor an attempt to minimalize the female role in game bird family unit. Mixed braces are acceptable and encouraged.

Pointers:-

Unlimited entries (except Dundee for conservation purposes who is limited to one photo's per day, no eels).

I quite like old school tradition

I like a good mock or piss take- bonus points could be on offer if the piss is taken from me, so could a red card!

A slightly less artistic approach to photography could be enhanced with a short story. In fact a subsidiary comp I think we will add a "most pleasantly enhanced story"- or a lie category which like fishing should come easily enough to most of us.

Cheating is legal. Take your two nicest birds of the day, put on your eyeliner brush your hair and get out grandpa's hammer gun......

PRIZES

I am hoping Purdy or Holland and Holland might come to the party with a back up being Fabbri. I hold quite high hopes one of these three fine gunmakers will offer up a custom build with air tickets thrown in for the measure up. No this isn't the first entry in the enhanced story category. I'm not eligible.

If this doesn't work out prizes will probably be things of less value but offered with equally good intent.



Suggestions welcome and prize offers welcome. Rules finalised around opening.