So Carl, can we presume that you and the other organizers would expect all entrants to do the 'honorable thing' insofar as how they each represent their own guns in competition?

I was a competitive Skeet shooter for many years and lived through the transition from 4 guns to four-barrel sets to tube inserts. The game attracted many more competitors in the small gauge events when there was the transition to tubes, because of the cost factor. One could, for about $1,000, compete in the 20-28-.410 events for a fraction of the cost required to buy three additional guns. Would the same happen, with side x sides? I personally doubt it because of the average age of competitors (old fogies, including myself) and the compulsive acquisitive nature, as regards shotguns, of the players.
I'm not in favor of the idea of tubes. But does that mean that the idea has no merit? I don't know, but if the number of small bore competitors were to double, would there be merit in the idea?

Dean, I can speak only for myself in this matter and in answer to your question, I believe that all decisions should be based on thoughtfull consideration and with honorable intentions.

Honorable thing? I'm not sure I understand your point Dean. The Challenge Cup does distinguish between composite and fluid steels for the Gaddy Trophy. Is there something else we have to declare now?

Hi Ed, "Honorable thing" insofar as how each competitor represents his gun in meeting prescribed qualifications for entry.

The Oscar Gaddy event never entered my mind because it would be plain to see if a competitor's gun had Damascus barrels... or not. Fluid steel barrels would be an automatic disqualifier.... just as gauge mates or tubes are in other classic shooting events.

Carl, as I mentioned earlier, the Challenge, being a heads up competition, is really not a place where too much in the way of restrictions should be considered. I think we are all happy with the way it is now. In fact, I don't see much harm or advantage if a guy shoots a gun tubed to 20 gauge, composite or not. By the way, thanks for your work on the Challenge and we hope you continue.

John Truitt, you asked for opinions and you got mine, no different, by the way, than what others have posted. I'm sorry you are offended just by my posts, but they are not meant to be offensive. My apologies if you saw them as something they are not.

Bill Murphy, thank you. All is well. Enough said.

Would like some clarification if possable. Challenge Cup rules specifically allow sub gauge tube sets if the barrels are Damascus I don't see any equipment rules published for the Southern SxS itself.

Of course any organizer can rule however he likes on equipment. Challenge cup is run by the clubs Southern itself is not. Is there a set of equipment rules available for the Deep River and Backwoods events ?


William Davis

Yes Mr. Davis - there are rules and they will appear in the Fall 2014 Issue of Parker Pages and I'm certain those in charge will post them here quite soon.

Regards, Dean