Our opener was Oct 1. I have been unable to get out but took the afternoon yesterday and hit some of my favorite haunts. No birds anywhere. The sun had touched the horizon and I was into my final walk. CHARLIE got a bit birdy and I was walking the edge of stubble while CHARLIE was in the weeds. A young rooster flushed and I didn't practice enough before hand. I pulled back on the hammer but the spring was stronger than my thumb pressure, so I didn't get it cocked. There was about 10 minutes left and I made it to my last spot, a never to be divulged roosting cover where birds congregate for the night. Having seen only one bird all afternoon, I wasn't holding out a lot of hope. As I stood on the top of a long abandoned rail line grade (rails and ties long since gone), I surveyed the cover. CHARLIE didn't seem too excited but I convinced her to tackle the thorns and thistles. Out popped a couple hens and a long shot rooster that I passed on. A few more hens and then two roosters. I did have the hammer cocked and chose one rooster and he dropped like a rock. #7 Golden Pheasant 2 1/2" shot shell ensured a nice meal for tonight or tomorrow.
That was the damascus barreled Boswell doing its thing. It is an underlever and has no serial number. I have yet to determine vintage but it will be back in the 1800's. It was a delight to carry, very light. Straight stock but not quite as good a fit as my GHE, I have to adjust my sight line once shouldered.
All in all, a fun day that ended with one bird and an old gun that is in good shape got to see the field again.
Cheers,
Jack
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Hunt ethically. Eat heartily.
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