GENERAL REMARKS 27 



witness of two cases of bulged barrels from explosions so 

 caused. 



Nos. 7 and 8. — Both excellent positions, and the two best 

 to take when advancing on game in line, and expecting at 

 every moment to shoot. 



Nos. 9, 10, II, and 12. — These are what may be called 

 fancy ways of carrying, and all are to be condemned. Nos. 9 

 and 10 are in our opinion most awkward ways of carrying, 

 and if those who adopt this style will only allow their fingers 

 to play about nervously over the triggers, they will have solved 

 the problem of how to be specially trying to the nerves of their 

 friends. Of Nos. 11 and 12, ladies have been heard to say, 

 "Oh! doesn't Mr. Heartbreaker look picturesque, with his gun 

 like that .'' " But neither of these ways is safe or handy — two 

 considerations which should outweigh all thoughts of the 

 picturesque. 



The drawing of cartridges at the end of every beat, or 

 when having to surmount the smallest obstacle, is not advised. 

 Many shooters, however, do this, and it is impossible to find 

 fault with an excess of caution; but unless a very bad place has 

 to be negotiated, where the gun has to be handed over the 

 obstacle, it appears a somewhat unnecessary performance, and 

 as if the sportsman were not quite sure of his ability to handle 

 his weapon with safety. Whenever the cartridges are removed, 

 they should either be kept in the hand or the breech left open, 

 so that it may not be forgotten to reload, as may often be seen. 



In the act of shooting, the weight of the body should 

 always be thrown on the left leg, for it is impossible to shoot 

 well with the right foot in front ; and when game rises whilst 

 walking, and the right foot is the forward one, let it not halt 

 there while an attempt is made to shoot, but allow the left foot 

 to follow on, and as it comes to the front, throw the body 

 slightly forward and bring the gun to the shoulder in one 

 motion. 



