48 WING-SHOOTING. 



Straightaway shots at short distances are the easiest of 

 all shots, but at long distances they are the most uncer- 

 tain, because the vital parts of the bird are not so much 

 exposed, and because the shot has to travel with the bird, 

 rendering the shot less effective. 



Cross shots at short distances are more difficult to in- 

 different shots, because the shot passes behind the bird, 

 on account of the gun not being carried with the bird ; 

 but at long distances they are more deadly when the bird 

 is hit, because the vital parts of the bird are more exposed, 

 and because the shot strikes with greater force. The 

 above hints are intended, in a measure, for open and 

 deliberate shooting. 



SNAP-SHOOTING AND SHOOTING IN COVERTS. 



Snap-shooting must necessarily be followed when hunt- 

 ing for woodcock, often ruffed grouse, and, in many in- 

 stances, quail. 



In covert shooting, the sportsman who follows his bird, 

 or dwells on his aim, in all probability will make an in- 

 different bag. Almost all game birds killed in coverts 

 are near shots, and must be killed by quick or snap-shoot- 

 ing. That system is conducted by keeping the head 

 erect, planting the muzzle of the gun directly upon the 



