MY SOMALI BOOK 265 



of shock caused to the system, which is the most im- 

 portant factor m stopping-power. We shall deal 

 later with the manner in w^iich these varying results 

 are produced by different types of bullet, and shall at 

 the same time have to consider how they are affected 

 by velocity. 



For dealing with lion or tiger then we may lay down 

 certain general conditions : — 



(a) As regards the rifle : 



Handiness, in its widest sense, is of the greatest 

 importance. 



(b) As regards the bullet : 



(i.) The extreme accuracy produced by a loiv trajectory 

 is unnecessary under the conditions that exist 

 in the shooting of the class of game in question. 



(ii.) Shock-effect, as the main factor in giving stopping- 

 power, is an absolute essential. 



To proceed from the general to the particular ; 

 with regard to the rifle, as apart from its ammunition, 

 we have to compare the properties of the single-shot, 

 double, and magazine types, particularly in respect of 

 their handiness — employing that w^ord in its widest 

 sense. 



The single rifle has undoubted advantages for 

 general use, and is certainly the most suitable weapon 

 for the novice against deer or antelope. But against 

 dangerous game, it possesses the very serious dis- 

 advantage of having no reserve, the whole operation 

 of re-loading having to be gone through before a second 

 shot can be fired. Mr. Henry Sharp in his extremely 

 interesting work, Modern Sporting Gunnery, remarks : 

 " I have heard African sportsmen say that they could 



