I am in love...
 

With 16g 0 frames. 16g VH 26" barrels choked M/F. 7 grouse and 7 mudbats flushed. Fired at 3 grouse 3 woodcock, one grouse two woodcock in hand. But like a bamboo fly rod, it's about what you carry. Today was about the dog work. Raisin was epic from 9 to 11am and nailed 6 woodcock tight and 5 grouse, holding them as long as could be expected. 3 hours of bliss and others don't understand that when you had a morning like this, should God strike you dead, there could be worse ways to go. The 16's in that size just carry like a fawn in your palm and it's a gift. I can't get enough of them. The only thing limiting me is my wallet!!! A DHE in shooting modern dimensions, or PHE, near 6lbs is my Nirvana.

Beautiful photos. I sure hope Raisin got a special treat when you got home! Thanks for sharing.

Andy I agree with you but you should also look at A H Fox 16's (built on 20 ga frames) in the same configuration, also fantastic guns for grouse & wood cock and a joy for old farts to carry.

Thank you George, I'm afraid to go down the rabbit hole of another maker for obvious reasons of financial well being : )

And Chris, what do you think looking at this face?

Perfect!! How could you not give that pup treats!!

Andy, I'm with you on upland bird guns. Nothing beats the 16g. As you know, I love to use my Parker and Lefever guns interchangeably for birds. Grasshopper, keep your focus on the Parkers, you'll be glad you did.

Thank you Mike. I have yet to find the Lefever magic and kinda hope I don't. I have to stay focused. My gun buying is done for this month anyways : )

Hopefully the USPS Gods will shine and my new VH 16 0 frame will be here by the end of the week in time for the annual quail hunt

I couldn't agree with you more, mine is a VH 28" Mod/Full 14 1/4" that tips the scales at 6.04 lbs. What a pleasure to use

Mere child’s play ! I’ll take my Grade 1 top lever hammer 10 with the 26” factory barrels that are as left the factory choked wide open and slightly less than wide open . Of course there is a VHE 16 26” skeet in the safe that’s being called upon more and more :rotf::rotf::rotf:

Despite what the Crazy Polish guy may say an AH Fox 16 is a nice walking gun . Had an AH Fox A grade 16 with 26” barrels that was quite nice in the dove field or out chasing quail .

Andy, you are lucky you have your wonderful gun, excellent pup, and a place to hunt...and perhaps equally lucky that you appreciate it all while it's happening. There is nothing quite like the upland shooting life (thanks GBE).

I hope it all continues for you just as you described so well.:bowdown: