2021 Northern SxS Challenge!!

[Mike Koneski]

As long as we're on the right side of the grass our 2021 event will be on!! Book it!!

[Mike Koneski]

We will be adding a "AW Dubray "Gaucho SBT Event" to our shoot. For those shooting for trophies we will give HOA and RU awards for this event. Only vintage SBT guns allowed. No Ljutic, Browning Unsingle, etc.

[Jeff Kuss]

Damn. Now I have to drag another gun to the shoot! :rotf:

[Randy G Roberts]

Damn. Now I have to drag another gun to the shoot! :rotf:

That's nothing, I have to buy one. :crying:

[Daryl Corona]

Not going to buy one to shoot twice a year so I'll have to borrow one. How about I bring my double trap and only shoot the right barrel?:)

[Mike Koneski]

Not going to buy one to shoot twice a year so I'll have to borrow one. How about I bring my double trap and only shoot the right barrel?:)

Daryl, buy one before Uncle Sam takes all your savings!! :shock: Redistribution and all that fun stuff you know.

[Andrew Sacco]

So how do these shindigs work? Never been to a SxS Challenge. Do people shoot on teams, individually, show off their guns and grunt "Oooh oooh oooh..." or just be happy with likeminded folk? I imagine some money is going to change hands at one of these and new hardware will be obtained shortly thereafter? Are you allowed in without breeks, a handlebar moustache and the smell of pipe tobacco??

[Harold Lee Pickens]

Mike's shoot was a good/ no great time, last year, it surely helped cure the Covid Shotgun Blues. Alot of us know each other from previous shoots, and of course from here on the forum. Usually shoot about 4 to a group, or a few more, often shooting with different folks. And yes, there are gun vendors, and guns for sale privately. many hang around at the end of the day to shoot the bull, instead of clays, and have a few libations, and maybe a good cigar if you are so inclined.
My current plans are to attend again this year . Also will most definately attend the NE SXS at Hausmanns Hidden Hollow in June if it comes off. The Southern is up in the air for me.
For those who dont know, Andy is an optometrist like myself, and we have had some email discussions about the difficulty running a business under these trying conditions--so happy I'm retired.

Oh, and no, we dont wear breeks--this is not a Vintager Shoot. The shooting for score is individual, not team. You can also shoot for unrecorded score, ie, just for fun, at a lesser cost--that's what I do. I shot with Randy Roberts who was shooting for score(and won alot of hardware), Brett Hoops, and Chuck Bishop. Hope you can make it.

[Mike Koneski]

So how do these shindigs work? Never been to a SxS Challenge. Do people shoot on teams, individually, show off their guns and grunt "Oooh oooh oooh..." or just be happy with likeminded folk? I imagine some money is going to change hands at one of these and new hardware will be obtained shortly thereafter? Are you allowed in without breeks, a handlebar moustache and the smell of pipe tobacco??

Andy, yes, yes and yes. 😂😂

[Jeff Kuss]

Just bring plenty of ammo. You will need it!

[Andrew Sacco]

I really hope to meet some of you there. Sounds like a good time. Dr.Pickens it’s a pleasure I want to shake your hand

[Dean Romig]

Andy, you’re going to like Dr. Pickens, “Harold” to most of us. He’s very unassuming and he’d have fit in very well in earlier times as a ‘country doctor’ making house calls and bringing along a favorite SXS because there would always be an invitation for him to go out in the back forty to shoot a few birds. He’s that kind of guy and is very well liked around these parts.

That’s a compliment Harold. :cheers:





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[Harold Lee Pickens]

Darn, Dean, now I have to come up with something nice to say about you. Give me a week and I'll think of something.

As you can see Andy, there is a lot of good natured ribbing involved also. Dean, and others, are virtual "Ask Google" when it comes to Parkers.

[Andrew Sacco]

This is one of the finest forums I've been a part of. Trying to get a few buddies to shoot with me at Mikes event. We'll be the low score but probably have the most fun : )

[Mills Morrison]

We are hoping to be there

[Sara LeFever]

I'm hoping to be there; especially if Hausmann's is a no-go in June. Unfortunately, it's going to be a wait and see what happens type of year.

Sara

[Daryl Corona]

Everyone keep in mind that Mike and Sam had the only shoot last year after all the other venues cancelled due to the "virus". Unless I am wrong, which I have been known to be, no cases of this "virus" ravaged the attendees. This is a shooters shoot so put it on your schedule and be sure to visit us at the "Grotto" while you are there. Leave your mask in the car.:nono:

[Mike Koneski]

After the activity in "The Grotto" last year, we will be installing a dancer pole and sound system and Daryl will be performing for dollar bills!! :rotf::rotf::rotf:

[Mike Koneski]

I'm hoping to be there; especially if Hausmann's is a no-go in June. Unfortunately, it's going to be a wait and see what happens type of year.

Sara
Word is that Ernie will be holding his June event!! :)

[Daryl Corona]

After the activity in "The Grotto" last year, we will be installing a dancer pole and sound system and Daryl will be performing for dollar bills!! :rotf::rotf::rotf:

Hey... nowadays every dollar counts.:eek:

[CraigThompson]

Are ya gonna have the "Brutus" (8 gauge) event again ?

I'm hoping I can't make it and will be somewhere else but I have my doubts about being able to travel freely even by july .

[Mike Koneski]

Yes we will.

[Harold Lee Pickens]

Heard he will also perform for 209 primers, and or gunpowder

[Mike Koneski]

YES HE WILL!!

[CraigThompson]

We will be adding a "AW Dubray "Gaucho SBT Event" to our shoot. For those shooting for trophies we will give HOA and RU awards for this event. Only vintage SBT guns allowed. No Ljutic, Browning Unsingle, etc.

You’re putting in a regulation trap field 16-27 yards ? Or did you already have one ?

[Mike Koneski]

Shot on an unofficial 16 yard field with a wobble trap. We’ve had that since 2005.

[CraigThompson]

Well if my trip to see my wife daughter and grandson isn’t cancelled for the fourth time I’ll be out of the country on your shoot dates sorry to say . But the boss and I both turn 60 on 7/27/21 . So it pleases her that I’m trying to get back for our birthday . Now if my trip gets cancelled for the fourth time I’ll most likely make the journey for a day or two .

[Mike Koneski]

Here is the shoot flier with the schedule of the events.

[Rich Anderson]

I'm hoping to make it this year if I can get the clearance to travel.:whistle::whistle:

[Mike Koneski]

With or without the Santa Claus beard???? :bowdown::bowdown:

[Rich Anderson]

You will have to just wait and see if the sleigh is cleared for takeoff:rotf:

[CraigThompson]

Well I just found out today I’m about 98% sure I’ll be able to attend now . Mike does your trap machine have the capability to throw trap doubles ?

[Mike Koneski]

No sir, single wobble trap.

[Mike Koneski]

ATTENTION!!!!!!!

We will be adding another SBT event to the Northern SxS Challenge. A 30 target SBT "Diesel Smoke" event shot on the Main Course over 7 stations. All birds set on the Sporting Course shot as on-call singles. This will be a non-trophy event. If we draw enough interest we will add a trophy to it in 2022.

[Frank Srebro]

ATTENTION!!!!!!!

We will be adding another SBT event to the Northern SxS Challenge. A 30 target SBT "Diesel Smoke" event shot on the Main Course over 7 stations. All birds set on the Sporting Course shot as on-call singles. This will be a non-trophy event. If we draw enough interest we will add a trophy to it in 2022.

Mike, what a great event! As a friend might say ..... "nut cuttin time". :rotf:

[Mike Koneski]

Chestnut roasting for sure!! :shock:

[Mike Koneski]

The "Diesel Smoke" SBT event will be a trophy event!! Just received a call that a trophy will be made and donated for this event!! :)

[Steve Cambria]

I can see it now.....two sterling silver chestnuts under a solid bronze hammer head.....one-of-a-kind, NFT exclusivity all day long!!! :bowdown:

[CraigThompson]

Is the 8 gauge thing an enter as many times as you like deal ? I loaded about 200 1 3/4 ounce loads of 7 1/2’s this week :cool:

[Mike Koneski]

First round is for score, after that it’s just showing off!! :)

[Mike Koneski]

SHOOT SPONSOR LINCOLN TRAPS/SHYDA'S SERVICES

VENDORS

TD SPORTING COLLECTIBLES (TOM DAMIANI)
BMD GUNSTOCKS (BRIAN DUDLEY)
A.H.FOX COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION
HILL COUNTRY ARTISTS
LEFEVER ARMS COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION
NICKERSON SPORTING COLLECTIBLES (DON NICKERSON)
PARKER GUN COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION
RED ROCK BBQ
RGS NEPA CHAPTER
SHERRY SPARKS ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY
SHOP TEK INC (PATRICK MCCABE)
L.C. SMITH COLLECTORS ASSOCIATION
FRANK SILVERS-VINTAGE DOUBLES COLLECTOR
JIM WARK ENGRAVING

[Mike Koneski]

Here is the vendor ad for the event....

[Rich Anderson]

I'm hoping to be able to make it this year.

[Mike Koneski]

Hope you can Richie! Haven’t seen you in years.

[Rich Anderson]

With or without the Santa Claus beard???? :bowdown::bowdown:

The Santa beard all fell out:eek: along with my hair in most places and some you wouldn't have thought of

[Eric Eis]

Well if COB is coming guess this blind guy is coming too!

[Frank Srebro]

ATTENTION!!!!!!!

We will be adding another SBT event to the Northern SxS Challenge. A 30 target SBT "Diesel Smoke" event shot on the Main Course over 7 stations. All birds set on the Sporting Course shot as on-call singles. This will be a non-trophy event. If we draw enough interest we will add a trophy to it in 2022.

I met with a gent at the Rock today on a potential sale deal, and had time to do 25 birds on the main course with my Baker SBT gun, 32-incher with 38 points of choke. I joined up with a group and did the menu birds as "singles on call". 5 stations at 4 birds each and one station at 5 birds. A tightly choked Trap gun can be a real teacher on a sporting course with quartering, crossers, incomers, dropping, battue, etc birds. Hit or miss, very few chips and X's on the card as with lucky fringe hits while using an open choked gun.

[Reggie Bishop]

Frank could you not have shot a little better? :cool:

[Mike Koneski]

Well if COB is coming guess this blind guy is coming too!

Yeah man!!! It'll be great to have you here too!! Shooting or not, you are always welcome. Besides, someone has to keep Richie in line.

[Harold Lee Pickens]

Good to hear you both will be there, looking forward to it

[Tom Pellegrini]

Reservations are made and I will be there for my first time. Looking forward to it.

[Mills Morrison]

I am trying to figure out the logistics. Want to come very bad

[Mike Koneski]

Here is the updated registration form for the event. Pre registering always help the host club plan for support staffing. Thank you!

[Brett Hoop]

The Boy Scouts did a bang up job last year! Looking forward and hope to have a rematch with those tiny black glider squirrels coming off the top. They are like watching a barber pole too long then they switch places. Once again Harold and I escorted the bling taker last week. Our examples of how not to do it are in high demand.

[Dean Romig]

I remember those high long dropping clays from several years ago. Somehow I did pretty well on them. I hope to get back to Rock Mountain again. Mike has some great courses - lotsa fun for sure!!





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[Daryl Corona]

Mike really does have one the best courses as far as target presentations that you can find. He is not known as "Evil Mike" for no good reason.:):eek:

[Randy G Roberts]

Agreed Daryl. I hate to brag on him but his target setting for SxS shooters is excellent. Now he's really gonna have the big head :bigbye:

[Daryl Corona]

Agreed Daryl. I hate to brag on him but his target setting for SxS shooters is excellent. Now he's really gonna have the big head :bigbye:

Too late Randy.... he already has but we still love him.

[Kevin McCormack]

Agreed Daryl. I hate to brag on him but his target setting for SxS shooters is excellent. Now he's really gonna have the big head :bigbye:

Indeed; the Italian shooters who come over from Europe for international competitions refer to him as, "Testa Grande."

[CraigThompson]

Heck with the darn targets I'm kinda intrested in what the deer situation is like in his area ? Last time I hunted the Poconos about 15 years ago it was a bit on the bleak side .

[Dean Romig]

The deer population in the area is well-regulated and jealously guarded by the locals. That said, I have seen deer feeding nearby while we were shooting and spotted fawns casually observing us with big curious eyes.





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[CraigThompson]

The deer population in the area is well-regulated and jealously guarded by the locals. That said, I have seen deer feeding nearby while we were shooting and spotted fawns casually observing us with big curious eyes.
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I hunted Wayne , Monroe and Pike counties a good bit in the early 2000's . Strangely I killed more deer then my buddies from PA . But they all liked sitting out and smoking cigars while they waited . And while these same guys used treestands when we hunted the Eastern Shore of MD they wouldn't use one in the Poconos . But most of those guys hadn't killed two dozen deer in their entire life , where as with the liberal seasons and kill permits we have in VA I've had years that I'd kill close to that many .

The year I lived in Dickson City which is right outside of Scranton I worked with a bunch of guys that hunted Susquehanna County and they had decent seasons but they also had leases in the Binghamton area .

It's a big difference in the Northeast vs most states in the south . You guys maybe have a couple weeks where as we have a couple months . Also our bag limits far exceed what you guys are even remotely used to .

[Andrew Sacco]

Heck with the darn targets I'm kinda intrested in what the deer situation is like in his area ? Last time I hunted the Poconos about 15 years ago it was a bit on the bleak side .

Over the border in NY we have the biggest deer herd we've had in 10-15 years. They had a tough, long winter, now so far a dry birthing season and we may have yet another bump in population.

[Mike Koneski]

Deer are like vermin. They eat everything. If they don't eat it the bucks snap the saplings off. We planted well over 1000 trees in the last few years and if it is a mast tree we have to tube & stake and/or fence them in until the branches are above the browse line and trunks sturdy enough to hold up to rubbing. We average 13-14 deer off of our property every year. Only allowed 1 buck and it must have minimum 3 points on one side for PGC requirements, I want only 2 1/2 YO and up buck killed) and up until this year we could only take 3 doe with proper permits. Six weeks of archery, two weeks of rifle and three-four weeks of flintlock/archery. We also have almost four weeks of bear season. I usually score on a buck in archery and have two doe down before rifle. I like to save one doe tag for my "rifle of the year" experiment.

[Mike Koneski]

The deer population in the area is well-regulated and jealously guarded by the locals. That said, I have seen deer feeding nearby while we were shooting and spotted fawns casually observing us with big curious eyes.





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Not uncommon for me to have to chase fawns away from the shooting areas.

[CraigThompson]

Deer are like vermin. They eat everything..


I've got maybe 120 azalea bushes on a bank right beside the house and when I say right beside at one point all you can do is drive the lawnmower one swipe between the house and the bushes .

Anyway we had right much snow one year in January/February . That lane between the house and the bushes looked like a cow path from deer traffic and all the azaleas got pruned . We've got this ivy kinda stuff growing up some of the tree's in the front yard . This stuff my mother planted many years ago , anyway one day during this snow period I looked out in the middle of the day and two yearling deer that had made it thru hunting season were out there eating the ivy because they'd trimmed back the azaleas already .

[Brian Hornacek]

Mike K

Do you have any Hotel’s set up with a group rate.

Thanks.

[Mike Koneski]

Brian, the Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn in Tunkhannock have rates for all of our events. Just tell them you are shooting at Rock Mountain.

[john pulis]

Mike,

Can we rent golf carts? Uddvar can’t walk long distances.

John

[Mike Koneski]

John, as the registration form says you can rent carts from Empire. Their contact info is on the registration and our website. All of the Empire cart rentals are done directly with Empire. You reserve with them and pay them directly. THX.

[Mike Koneski]

Plenty of misinformation regarding room rates at Hampton Inn and Comfort Inn. Hampton Inn price (regular rate $209) is $119/night and you better reserve soon as the gas guys are coming back in. Comfort Inn regular rate is $179/King. Rock Mt rate is $139. Comfort Inn may not have rooms available as they have arrangements with the gas companies and the end of July they may be full. Shadowbrook Inn and Resort has rooms and they are usually around $100 or less. Skyview Motel has rooms and they are all under $100.

[Brian Hornacek]

Thank you Mike for clarification. I called the Hampton Inn last night and the person working the desk had no information on your rate they quoted me the $209. I just booked a room no problem at $119.

[john pulis]

THX Mike. I should read first, ask questions later.

[Mike Koneski]

Not a problem John.

[CraigThompson]

John, as the registration form says you can rent carts from Empire. Their contact info is on the registration and our website. All of the Empire cart rentals are done directly with Empire. You reserve with them and pay them directly. THX.

I rented an Empire cart this past weekend and had already reserved one for your shoot several weeks ago . Just wish the darn things had mudder tires on the back :rotf:

[Mike Koneski]

I hear ya Craig. I pushed more than one buggy last week. 😎

[Randy G Roberts]

I did not hear of any carts getting stuck but I did hear rumor of a van with PA plates that bottomed out and had to be pulled out. :corn:

[CraigThompson]

I did not hear of any carts getting stuck but I did hear rumor of a van with PA plates that bottomed out and had to be pulled out. :corn:

I almost stuck my cart friday morning at the place you go thru the fence . But if I'd had mudders on the rears instead of golf course tires I don't think I'd have had any issues .

[Frank Srebro]

I hear ya Craig. I pushed more than one buggy last week. ��

Mike, the Fox guys had some heavy iron on standby for pulls but when the driver (El Capitan) saw you getting mud sprayed he just LHAO. :rotf:

[Mike Koneski]

I didn’t get muddy nor stuck. Push between the tires, not from a rear corner and the rooster-tails miss you!! �� Chuck could have used that ol’ mudder Friday AM!

[Mike Koneski]

I did not hear of any carts getting stuck but I did hear rumor of a van with PA plates that bottomed out and had to be pulled out. :corn:

The truck that pulled out the van didn’t even get muddy. Easy peasy lemon squeezy!!

[Randy G Roberts]

The truck that pulled out the van didn’t even get muddy. Easy peasy lemon squeezy!!

Long tow straps come in handy eh. Where's the photographer when you need them.

[Mike Koneski]

No photos but we all know Hoosier daddy!!

[Mike Koneski]

Great news!! For a lucky youth shooter at this event, an LC Smith has been donated again as a prize!! For every event a youth shooter enters, they will get a ticket into a random draw to win a 12g 30” O-grade choked F-F, made in 1908. Photos to come.

[Mike Koneski]

For those who like to play around with the targets, we will be running a "for fun" "Snooker"-"Make a Break"-"Make it Break" on the 5-Stand during the shoot. Looks like the high score will have bragging rights for a year. Also toying with the idea of Super Sporting for giggles too. Maybe add it as a trophy event in 2022?

[Daryl Corona]

What a great idea Mike. Sign me up for the MAB.:cool:

[Daniel Carter]

For those who like to play around with the targets, we will be running a "for fun" "Snooker"-"Make a Break"-"Make it Break" on the 5-Stand during the shoot. Looks like the high score will have bragging rights for a year. Also toying with the idea of Super Sporting for giggles too. Maybe add it as a trophy event in 2022?

Mike for those of us who are not in the know could you tell us about these games?

[Frank Srebro]

WAY MORE fun than 5-stand and a quick learning curve if you watch a few shooters. The game is common at NSCA events and there's usually a long queue line. And with more and more shooters into 10 and 8 bores it's ideal for two shooters using the same gauge to have a go against each other and with personal decision space on target strategy.

Here's the usual MAB setup:

Two shooters are positioned on the elevated platform with the left shooter calling for his pair of targets first then followed by the shooter on the right. Each pair of targets always begins with the release of either of the #1 traps. (The target puller/scorer randomly choses one of the #1 traps.) If the shooter misses the #1 target with the first shot, he must use the second shot to break the #1 target. If the shooter breaks the #1 target with the first shot, then the #2 target is released, on the report of his firearm, for him to attempt. If the shooter breaks both targets, he is scored for the sum of the targets, which would be three points (the total of #1 & #2 traps.) Then the shooter on the right attempts the same pair. The shooters continue for the next pair, #1 & #3 and so forth up to #1 & #7 pair. After the #1 & #7 pair, with firearms unloaded, the shooters switch sides on the shooting platform and the shooter with the higher score calls for the first of the four pairs in the bonus rounds. He may choose any trap for his second target. The #1 target is always the first target attempted in the pair. Then the second shooter, calls for his pair of targets. He may choose any trap for his second target also. After each pair in the bonus rounds, the shooter with the higher score calls first. In the case of a tie after each pair, the order remains the same until there is a lead change.

In the four bonus rounds, the #4 & #5 targets can be attempted only once by each shooter. All other targets are unlimited in the bonus rounds. The maximum score for a round of is 65 total points. This requires the shooter to call for the #7 target in all four bonus pairs.

For the sake of safety, all firearms are to remain unloaded until into shooting position on platform and ready to call for the targets. Only two shells are loaded into the firearm at one time. Unload firearms before changing positions for the bonus rounds. Always unload firearm before entering and exiting the shooting platform.

[Mike Koneski]

Super Sporting is three traps per station and three pair per station. You’d shoot an A-B, B-C and A-C pairs on each station.

Make-A-Break-

Two shooters are positioned on the elevated platform with the left shooter calling for his targets first then followed by the second shooter. Each pair of targets always begins with the release of either of the #1 traps. If the shooter misses the #1 target with the first shot, he must use the second shot to break the #1 target. If the shooter breaks the #1 target with the first shot, then the #2 target is released, on the report of his firearm, for him to attempt. If the shooter breaks both targets, he is scored for the sum of the targets, which would be three points (The total of #1 & #2 traps.) Then the shooter on the right attempts the same pair. The shooters continue for the next pair, #1 & #3 and so forth up to #1 & #7 pair.
After the #1 & #7 pair, with firearms unloaded, the shooters switch sides on the shooting platform and the shooter with the higher score calls for the first of the four pairs in the bonus rounds. He may choose any trap for his second target. The #1 target is always the first target attempted in the pair. Then the second shooter, calls for his pair of targets. He may choose any trap for his second target also. After each pair in the bonus rounds, the shooter with the higher score calls first. In the case of a tie after each pair, the order remains the same until there is a lead change.
In the four bonus rounds, the #4 & #5 targets can be attempted only once by each shooter. All other targets are unlimited in the bonus rounds.
The maximum score for a round of Make-A-Break is 65 total points. This requires the shooter to call for the #7 target in all four bonus pairs.

[Daniel Carter]

Frank and Mike ,thank you, I am in the process of coming up with new games at my club and this is very helpful. The usual loses its shine after awhile and things like this perk interest.

[Randy G Roberts]

Generally speaking the higher the trap # the higher the degree of difficulty. I have also seen this shot where shooters in the second or bonus rounds can call any combination of traps but you still must break the first trap/bird called for anything to count. Not sure if this is a legit format or just a trappers idea of adding a little fun to the game.

[Daryl Corona]

Generally speaking the higher the trap # the higher the degree of difficulty. I have also seen this shot where shooters in the second or bonus rounds can call any combination of traps but you still must break the first trap/bird called for anything to count. Not sure if this is a legit format or just a trappers idea of adding a little fun to the game.

That's pretty much how we play it here. You must break the #1 bird for anything to count. In the bonus round any trap combination can be called.

[Mike Koneski]

Daniel, keeping it fresh!! You can always run a flush, flurry or Cordoba too.

[CraigThompson]

Well on a far more seriouse note !

I called Empire Golf Carts an hour ago and made sure my cart was still reserved and paid the bill . Because Confuiciouse say "no golf cart to ride , no see fatboy from Virginia" LOL's !

[Mike Koneski]

Generally speaking the higher the trap # the higher the degree of difficulty. I have also seen this shot where shooters in the second or bonus rounds can call any combination of traps but you still must break the first trap/bird called for anything to count. Not sure if this is a legit format or just a trappers idea of adding a little fun to the game.

Since it's a "for fun" event, you can do the bonus rounds either way. 1 and a chosen trap or both chosen traps for more points.

[Daniel Carter]

Daniel, keeping it fresh!! You can always run a flush, flurry or Cordoba too.

Mike we just recieved and programed a Long Range controller for the 5 stand and the weather has been bad. Tried 1 shooter set it for that and it worked perfectly. It has flurry in it but we have not gotten that far yet. Tried a flurry once and had to remind my shooters that your guns have ejectors use them and pick up when we are done. Have a long way to go with this gang.Oh o the President is a member here but only reads the for sale section.

[Mike Koneski]

You can program the flush mode so you can throw a flush, flurry, cordoba, etc. You can set the traps and the timing of firing the traps. For the Cordoba you just program in the true pairs and fire manually through the game.

[Daniel Carter]

Looked into the instructions for the flurry today and we will use it in a few weeks. Had 10 shooters today and it worked great except for operator error which was easily corrected. I want to get as many people to operate it as possible so it no longer will need a dedicated puller. That has been the death of the last 2 set-ups in that the same person has to do it or it is closed hence the programable, just push the pull button controller and the traps at 8 and easy turn on and off.

[Mike Koneski]

Daniel, we updated our wireless system to a Long Range and it's awesome! We use the T-3 for tournaments and the MT4300 for daily use and we have a dedicated MT-4300 for 5-Stand/games. I really like the voice release for solo shooting. Most of the guys do really like it. One guy doesn't like the voice activated and prefers manual with delay. That's no problem, just a different way to run the shooting.

[Andrew Sacco]

Daniel, we updated our wireless system to a Long Range and it's awesome! We use the T-3 for tournaments and the MT4300 for daily use and we have a dedicated MT-4300 for 5-Stand/games. I really like the voice release for solo shooting. Most of the guys do really like it. One guy doesn't like the voice activated and prefers manual with delay. That's no problem, just a different way to run the shooting.

Mike the only time I used it was the RGS shoot, it was very slick and not one fail to release. Glad to see you jump into the modern century : )

[Daniel Carter]

Mike the MT 4300 is what we are using and so far for this luddite it is very user friendly. Will report back after a month or so on how it is going, we shoot it once a week now and a lot of the usual suspects are on vacation/ summer places so as time goes on more will become acclimated to it.

[Mike Koneski]

Mike the only time I used it was the RGS shoot, it was very slick and not one fail to release. Glad to see you jump into the modern century : )

Well, we were wireless for about 3-4 years and we went with a system that better suits our needs with the Long Range. It works much better with our terrain and vegetation. We can even use it for our 3-Bird shoots and not have to use jumpers and gang receptacles and 10 miles of cords. :shock:

[Mike Koneski]

Mike the MT 4300 is what we are using and so far for this luddite it is very user friendly. Will report back after a month or so on how it is going, we shoot it once a week now and a lot of the usual suspects are on vacation/ summer places so as time goes on more will become acclimated to it.


There is a slight learning curve but once you use the system it becomes intuitive. The "seasoned shooters" just need to get over their phobia of all things techie. They'll like it too. Any questions PM or call me.

[Bruce Hering]

There is a slight learning curve but once you use the system it becomes intuitive. The "seasoned shooters" just need to get over their phobia of all things techie. They'll like it too. Any questions PM or call me.

Mike:

Neal has his Long Range stuff pretty well figured out. I remember when he started it. Its come a long way. My students used it at Nationals and other majors for many years. Good stuff.

I am trying to work out the possibility of attending your shoot. The Make a Break sounds great as long as that #7 bird is inside of 50 yards. LOL

[Frank Srebro]

Just a comment here that the Rock (Mike and Susan) threw over 100,000 clays during the PA State NSCA Championship hosted there over the past long weekend. Do the math, that's about 400 flats of shells shot by > 300 registered shooters. As I understand it Evil Mike the target setter has some big doings in store for their Northern SxS. :)

[Mike Koneski]

Mike:

Neal has his Long Range stuff pretty well figured out. I remember when he started it. Its come a long way. My students used it at Nationals and other majors for many years. Good stuff.

I am trying to work out the possibility of attending your shoot. The Make a Break sounds great as long as that #7 bird is inside of 50 yards. LOL

Bruce, at some point that #7 will be inside of 50 yards!!

[Garry L Gordon]

...The "seasoned shooters"...

Well now, there's a new euphemism. Leave it to an editor to come up with that. :rotf:

[Bruce Hering]

Bruce, at some point that #7 will be inside of 50 yards!!

That sounds like the old COMPAC rule.... LOL

[Mike Koneski]

There ya go! As long as it passes through “the box” at some point it’s a legit target. I forgot all about that.

[Mike Koneski]

We’re adding another non-trophy event for this year, Super Sporting. It’ll be a 54 bird event. Three pair (report or simo) on nine stations. Three traps per station. So you will shoot an A-B, B-C and A-C on each station. If enough guys like it we’ll bring it back in 2022 with a trophy too. More fun than a barrel full of stoats!!

[john pulis]

Sounds like fun.

[Daryl Corona]

Sign me up!

[Tom Pellegrini]

Super Sporting is a great event. Various menu for the different gauges. Sign me up.

[Craig Larter]

Well I decided on what guns will make the road trip to Mike's. Fox CE 20ga 26" for the small bore course, LC Smith Grade 3 10ga and Parker CH Bernard 10ga for the big bore course. Three 8ga guns for the Back Bay 8ga shoot (two for friends) Parker GH 8/36, Parker PH 8/38 and Lefever 8/34. We will park in the upper lot and have a 10x10 canopy set up, stop by and say hello. Craig Larter

[Daryl Corona]

Smitty and I will be right there with you Yankees nestled in at the "Grotto". Just look for 2 labs and a shorthair roaming the area.

Bringing too many guns to list but will be shooting my PAC B grade for the first time in competition since I've owned her for the Fox big bore event. A Parker or two, a long legged Fox smallbore, a Lefever and an Ithaca. We show no favorites.

[CraigThompson]

Well I decided on what guns will make the road trip to Mike's. Fox CE 20ga 26" for the small bore course, LC Smith Grade 3 10ga and Parker CH Bernard 10ga for the big bore course. Three 8ga guns for the Back Bay 8ga shoot (two for friends) Parker GH 8/36, Parker PH 8/38 and Lefever 8/34. We will park in the upper lot and have a 10x10 canopy set up, stop by and say hello. Craig Larter

No Parker 8 hammer gun ????

[CraigThompson]

I’ll bring two 8’s , two 10’s , two 12’s , hopefully two 16’s a hammerless 20 a hammerless 28 possibly a hammerless 410 and an SC trap . All same brand except the 410 which is an IJ . Hopefully all I bring will be used in an event .

[CraigThompson]

Smitty and I will be right there with you Yankees nestled in at the "Grotto". Just look for 2 labs and a shorthair roaming the area.

Nice genteel southerners are just what’s needed up there in them there northern states . The couple months I lived in northeastern PA they told me I talked funny my response was people from the south talk correctly , Yankees have a damn accent :whistle::rotf::rotf::rotf:

[CraigThompson]

Mike I didn’t notice if you have a rifle range when I was there last month ?

[Bill Murphy]

When my dad migrated from northeast PA to Washington in 1936, they said he sounded like a Chinaman. They got used to it when about half the population of PA migrated by the end of the war.

[Mike Koneski]

Yes we do Craig. It’s a private range but we open it up for you guys to plink after the SxS shooting is done for the day. 50-105 yards with steel targets. No solid copper bullets on my AR-500 steel. Bang & Clang!

[Dean Romig]

I used to grt bloody knuckles when shooting steel targets with .38 solid lead wad cutters from the splatter. I can’t even imagine shooting lcketed bullets at steel targets, let alone solid copper….





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[Randy G Roberts]

I will be coming in from the Columbus, OH area and have the option of heading N on 71 and cutting across OH and PA on 80 E or taking 70 E out of Columbus across OH and PA. Both routes are about equal in time and distance. Anyone familiar with the area care to make a suggestion considering construction, tolls, etc?

[Stan Hoover]

Randy,
I can't make any recommendations on what road construction you will encounter. I think the upper route (I 80) in Pa would be a bigger highway and maybe less congested because you're further from Pittsburg.

I thought the lower route would have some tolls, but after plugging it into Google Maps from Columbus to Meshoppen, the route it suggests doesn't show any tolls.

I like traveling 80 when I'm up that way, (big rolling mountains and scenery) but I rarely do since I'm in the lower half of the state.

JMO,
Stan Hoover

PS. I personally prefer the scenery from the top down:cool:

[Daryl Corona]

Randy;

I agree with Stan. When heading west from MD I always take I-80 instead of I-70. Problem is you never know what roadwork they have planned. Either route, drive safely and see you there.

[Randy G Roberts]

Thanks fellas. If the Northern I 80 route is the more scenic then so be it. It really is a flip of the coin for me time and mileage considered. Thanks for the help. See ya'll real soon.

[CraigThompson]

Yes we do Craig. It’s a private range but we open it up for you guys to plink after the SxS shooting is done for the day. 50-105 yards with steel targets. No solid copper bullets on my AR-500 steel. Bang & Clang!

I was thinking of trying my buckshot loads in my hammerless 8 gauge . I don’t need but 25 yards :whistle:

[CraigThompson]

I used to grt bloody knuckles when shooting steel targets with .38 solid lead wad cutters from the splatter. I can’t even imagine shooting lcketed bullets at steel targets, let alone solid copper….





.

I hear you , we have flip over reset manually pistol targets at our club . Thirty years ago when I had notions of trying my hand at Bullseye I had Maryland Gun Works build me a S&W Model 10 PPC race/bullseye gun . Anyway shooting that thing at ten yards at the flippers with 148 grain WC’s pushed with two grains of Bullseye every now and then a slug would hit the poppers and come back . Got hit in the chest more than once , thankfully the energy had dispersed enough where it didn’t even bruise .

[Dean Romig]

You’re lucky Craig. I took a couple of fragments in the forehead and they drew blood.

A great case in support of eye protection.





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[Mike Koneski]

We shot a lot of action pistol before we got into sporting clays. Steel Challenge, IPSC, bowling pin matches… It was a lot of fun but after shooting sporting the first time I was hooked.

[Tom Pellegrini]

We shot a lot of action pistol before we got into sporting clays. Steel Challenge, IPSC, bowling pin matches… It was a lot of fun but after shooting sporting the first time I was hooked.

Mike,
I shot in a Bullseye League for 14 years when I lived in PA. After shooting sporting clays there is no turning back. I still take the competition hand guns out periodically and I am a little rusty but with a little practice I would be right back up in the class I competed in.

[Tom Pellegrini]

Smitty and I will be right there with you Yankees nestled in at the "Grotto". Just look for 2 labs and a shorthair roaming the area.

Bringing too many guns to list but will be shooting my PAC B grade for the first time in competition since I've owned her for the Fox big bore event. A Parker or two, a long legged Fox smallbore, a Lefever and an Ithaca. We show no favorites.
Myself and my "other side " will be coming in around 6pm Wednesday. See you at the Rock.

[Andrew Sacco]

Is there a designated start time? Or is it shoot as you want? I imagine we won't start until after Mike does a dance and song for us : )

[Mills Morrison]

Good luck to Mike putting on a great show and hope everyone has fun! Sure wish we could be there

[Daryl Corona]

Is there a designated start time? Or is it shoot as you want? I imagine we won't start until after Mike does a dance and song for us : )

No designated start time but things get rolling around 0900.

Thanks a lot for that song and dance question. I'll need some bourbon therapy to get that image out of my mind.

[Frank Srebro]

As Daryl wrote, no designated start time. Just get a few guys or gals to shoot with and go out to your event start station. In the past Mike asked for at least 3 (as I recall) on a squad. No 2 person squads to include husband and wife, father and child, etc. Besides, the more the merrier. Remember the vintage SBT and vintage pump gun events!!!!

[Dean Romig]

No 2 person squads to include husband and wife, father and child, etc.


Frank, I don't understand that statement...?





.

[Andrew Sacco]

No designated start time but things get rolling around 0900.

Thanks a lot for that song and dance question. I'll need some bourbon therapy to get that image out of my mind.

I think a Flamenco Dance with Mike and Sam would be most fitting, with Tad working the strings of the guitar. Aaah....I have imagery of Mike in a tight fitting flamenco outfit now...

[Mills Morrison]

I think a Flamenco Dance with Mike and Sam would be most fitting, with Tad working the strings of the guitar. Aaah....I have imagery of Mike in a tight fitting flamenco outfit now...



Trying to unsee . . . . :shock::shock::shock:

[Andrew Sacco]

Try this

[Frank Srebro]

Frank, I don't understand that statement...?


.

Dean, I'm surprised you never saw that rule while at at tournament. Husband/wife and father/child are fine if they shoot along with at least one other person. The key words are no "2 person squads". Too easy to cheat on the score while at a score-ur-own event. Yeah I know that Mike isn't running the World SxS Championship and that we're all gentlemen and women. Just sayin that we all pay the same entry fee per event, and those who shoot for fun AND score, get upset and with no recourse except for a confrontation when they follow a squad that's casual (kind word) on the scoring. :banghead:

Believe it or not there are known pair cheaters who are the subject of behind the scenes talk at these SxS events.

[Dean Romig]

Dean, I'm surprised you never saw that rule while at at tournament. Husband/wife and father/child are fine if they shoot along with at least one other person. The key words are no "2 person squads". Too easy to cheat on the score while at a score-ur-own event. Yeah I know that Mike isn't running the World SxS Championship and that we're all gentlemen and women. Just sayin that we all pay the same entry fee per event, and those who shoot for fun AND score, get upset and with no recourse except for a confrontation when they follow a squad that's casual (kind word) on the scoring. :banghead:

Believe it or not there are known pair cheaters who are the subject of behind the scenes talk at these SxS events.


Believe me Frank, I know that.

I have never seen that rule because I have never shot the Main Event anywhere - I'm not good enough to play that game.

But family members are not the only ones who are "casual" about scoring... good friends have been known to do it too.
Possibly a better way the rules should be worded, "If you want to shoot with a good friend or family member you must also squad up with someone who you don't know or who is a stranger to you."...?





.

[Frank Srebro]

Dean, if you knew that why ask the question?

I’m not sitting around here bored and with plenty of time to proofread my off the cuff posts to the nth degree so 100.0% of the readers whether fun or serious shooters are sure to know exactly what is meant. My post at 9:21am today was written on my smart phone while our pup and I were in the vehicle and waiting for my wife to finish some shopping. It was intended to be helpful and I'll bet almost everyone caught its meaning even without my later reply.

You certainly know there are many nebulous posts here and if you want to make it your editorial mission to correct and suggest better ways they could have been written, have at it. But try not to pick out some and let the rest go.

Tempest in a teapot comes to mind here.

[Dean Romig]

I did NOT know why you seemed to be singling out "husband and wife, father and child" in your post. Your meaning was entirely lost on me and possibly several others - I was only trying to get some clarification to your somewhat nebulous post. We've always been very cordial and friendly in the past.


Be well my Friend.





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[Reggie Bishop]

Heck Dean, everyone in our community gnash their teeth and rend their garments when my wife and I enter any events of gamesmanship!

[Dean Romig]

Yeah Reggie - Apologies to everybody here. This is embarrassing to say the least.

Bygones I hope.





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[Frank Srebro]

I did NOT know why you seemed to be singling out "husband and wife, father and child" in your post. Your meaning was entirely lost on me and possibly several others - I was only trying to get some clarification to your somewhat nebulous post. We've always been very cordial and friendly in the past.


Be well my Friend.

.

Yes you too Dean. Probably the reason I mentioned husband/wife and father/child is that some of the known sporting cheaters fit those categories. And when they shoot in twosomes, one or both always come in with a good score. That’s not fair to the rest of us who pay the same rate for a fair chance at winning either baubles or honors. In recent years we’ve started to see some of those twosomes who are/were sporting clays tournament shooters start into the SxS circuit and I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of them at Mike’s shoot.

Peace!

[Chuck Bishop]

Well, I remember a husband and wife team who showed up at the last minute to my little shoot years ago and of course shot by themselves and the guy was high gun and got first Lewis money. Always wondered about that

[Daryl Corona]

Well, I remember a husband and wife team who showed up at the last minute to my little shoot years ago and of course shot by themselves and the guy was high gun and got first Lewis money. Always wondered about that

That's one of the couples that Frank is alluding to. There are also a couple of guys who shoot together on their 2 man squad who pull the same crap.

That was part of the impetus behind my squadding makeover for the two challenge events.

[Daryl Corona]

Yes you too Dean. Probably the reason I mentioned husband/wife and father/child is that some of the known sporting cheaters fit those categories. And when they shoot in twosomes, one or both always come in with a good score. That’s not fair to the rest of us who pay the same rate for a fair chance at winning either baubles or honors. In recent years we’ve started to see some of those twosomes who are/were sporting clays tournament shooters start into the SxS circuit and I wouldn’t be surprised to see some of them at Mike’s shoot.

Peace!

Point well taken Frank. Especially your last sentence. Maybe we should start looking into a classification system for the known tournament/Master class shooters .

[Andrew Sacco]

You haven’t figured out the trick yet. You just need to SUCK all around so any attempt to cheat will be very obvious. Works for me.

[Mills Morrison]

My wife can outshoot me with her automatic, but she can’t hit the broadside of a barn with her VH 16 I paid way too much for. Of course, that is when the automatic does not break down which is often

[Daryl Corona]

You haven’t figured out the trick yet. You just need to SUCK all around so any attempt to cheat will be very obvious. Works for me.


That's the beauty of the new selection process Andy. You have just as good a chance of making a challenge team as someone who shot a 45/50. Keep plugging away.

[Andrew Sacco]

That's the beauty of the new selection process Andy. You have just as good a chance of making a challenge team as someone who shot a 45/50. Keep plugging away.

I don't understand a lick about what I'm getting myself into or how it's scored I'm just excited to meet some other Parker folks and see some guns :rotf:

[Daryl Corona]

Don't limit yourself to just Parker folks. There are some great Fox, Lefever nd Ithaca folks just to name a few.:)

[Andrew Sacco]

That is my fear. I’m interested in them all.

[Andrew Sacco]

How does the selection process work?? High score is paired with the suckage for a shoot off? Like a Pro Am golf?

[Bill Murphy]

Daryl and Frank, here's a little anecdote about scoring at side by side events. At the Spring Southern, many years ago, a good friend and high scorer who you all know, was up by several birds late in the .410 event. Regardless of the very small chance that I would equal his great score, I entered the event late in the competition. Because of the situations that Frank mentioned, I asked the "high scorer" whether he would be interested in going around the course with me while I shot my .410 birds. He said he would be honored. Long story short, I had an exceptional round and won the .410 hammerless and the .410 high overall outright. Having this gentleman witnessing my round took all of the questions and suspicions out of the final score. Just some food for thought. Bill Murphy

[Mills Morrison]

We have an Auto 5 that she doesn’t like. I have heard that Benelli’s are good guns, but I have learned to say “yes dear” and leave it alone

[CraigThompson]

Thursday !

[CraigThompson]

Fridays 8 gauge battery !

[Mills Morrison]

Now that is cool!

[Mike Koneski]

8 Gauge super squad. I like Craig taking a photo of the photographers.

[Craig Larter]

Left to right. Craig Thompson, Shane Hoover, Stan Hoover, Craig Larter, Mark Kircher, Rick Simmonds, Jim Hall, Mike Smith.
Hope to do it again next year and encourage more participants. Thanks Mike K for pulling targets and having the forethought to establish a 8ga event.

[Dean Romig]

I wish I could have been there!




.

[Craig Larter]

The Rock Mountain event is a must do event! Mike and company put on a great show that everyone should attend. Mike set up great targets that were fun and very challenging especially stands 16, 17 and 18!! Young Shane and Stan shooting the 8ga event with a Parker hammer gun!

[CraigThompson]

Saturday !

[James L. Martin]

I'mA few photos on Friday

[CraigThompson]

Sunday main event pics .

[john pulis]

Nice photos.

[Rich Anderson]

This was the first time I attended this shoot. It was a lot of fun and the targets were challenging. I didn't shoot that well or as much as usual by mid afternoon I'd run out of gas. Next year will be better I'll have my strength back and give it hell. LOL

[CraigThompson]

I enjoyed this shoot from many aspects and also liked the fact that I got out of their without breaking the bank ! Did buy a little Remington 1900 16 gauge , four boxes of RST pigeon loads and a Parker hammer screw . Of course I bought a bunch of shot but that was a pre shoot deal . So my expenditures on the unexpected was kinda light this shoot .

[Randy G Roberts]

At the end of the day on Friday as I recall it there was a 32", 12 gauge, VHE, vent rib, double trigger, trap comb on the gun rack on the PGCA table. We fretted over what to do with it as we did not know who that gun belonged to. Can someone now tell me who that gun belongs to. It was a dandy and thank you for displaying it.

[Daryl Corona]

That was mine Randy and thanks for the compliment. The gun was owned by a very interesting gentleman and someday I will submit an article for The Parker Pages.

[Randy G Roberts]

That was mine Randy and thanks for the compliment. The gun was owned by a very interesting gentleman and someday I will submit an article for The Parker Pages.

That's a very interesting configuration and a really nice gun. Thanks again for bringing it. You know how to reach me should you suddenly become disenchanted with it :)

[Mike Koneski]

Daryl, if you do write an article for Parker Pages, and I encourage you to do so, I will automatically get the right of first refusal for that gun. Just sayin’. 😎

[Daryl Corona]

Daryl, if you do write an article for Parker Pages, and I encourage you to do so, I will automatically get the right of first refusal for that gun. Just sayin’. 😎

Fair enough. But..... Randy did post interest in it one hour before you did so for you to go to the head of the line there will have to be some quid pro quo involved:whistle: Just sayin':cool:

[JAMES HALL]

I probably beat Randy with my pm. Not as much to the point though. I just trying to make sure it was safe.

[Mike Koneski]

Fair enough. But..... Randy did post interest in it one hour before you did so for you to go to the head of the line there will have to be some quid pro quo involved:whistle: Just sayin':cool:

Definitely some QPQ to toss your way my friend. :bowdown:

[Kevin McCormack]

I had a similar experience: At the end of the day Saturday lying alone and forelorn on the bare tables in the pavilion was a very nice gray sweatshirt with "Shippensburg College" on the front; a good quality (Converse?) sweat with knitted cuffs and nice small diameter crew neck. Clean and smelling of Fabreze, and just my size, I thought fleetingly of "disappearing" it since I was in need of a light-colored sweat to offset my fall ensemble. But I thought better of it when I pictured myself absent-mindedly showing up wearing it at The Rock next summer and the inevitable 260-pound tackle addressing me quietly, "Nice sweatshirt, Bud; where'd ya get it?" Besides, I had already put a lost shooting glove I found in the parking lot displayed in a conspicuous place at the entry of the pavilion so the owner could claim it. Lots of peril and drama at these shoots1

[Mike Koneski]

Kevin, that sweatshirt is still here and so is that Mechanix glove. Both are in the shop.

[Daryl Corona]

I probably beat Randy with my pm. Not as much to the point though. I just trying to make sure it was safe.

Just beating on Mr. Roberts and Mr. Koneski. She ain't leaving Maryland just yet.:nono:

As per your PM, Thanks Jimmy Hall.:bowdown:

Will there be a display theme for the VGC?

[JAMES HALL]

I haven't heard of on at this point. What you think Randy and Mike. I like the sound of Ivory beads. Leaves it open to any grade. ?

[Randy G Roberts]

This is a shoot that I am not going to make. I have already attended three of those 9-hour drives and that one is getting too close to hunting season. If you want to open it up to any Parker, any grade, how about "My Favorite Parker" ? If you like that I cannot take credit for it. After we had established a theme for Rock Mountain Mike Franzen threw that one out on the table. I thought it was a great idea but it was too late to change things midstream.

[Daryl Corona]

I like that idea Randy.

[Mike Koneski]

This is a shoot that I am not going to make. I have already attended three of those 9-hour drives and that one is getting too close to hunting season. If you want to open it up to any Parker, any grade, how about "My Favorite Parker" ? If you like that I cannot take credit for it. After we had established a theme for Rock Mountain Mike Franzen threw that one out on the table. I thought it was a great idea but it was too late to change things midstream.

Would you be referring to the VGC in September?

[Randy G Roberts]

Yes, the VGC in Sep. Will not make Ricks shoot either.