34 SPORTSMAN'S HAND HOOK. 



the gun at, or in front of the fore end; hold the gun, with 

 the arms extended just free from the body, with the 

 muzzle elevated at about sixty degrees and the right hand 

 about level with the eye, and the breech-plate below the 

 elbow; bring the gun deliberately (and at the same time as 

 quickly as possible) to the shoulder. This is done by simply 

 dropping the muzzle and raising the breech, or butt, to the 

 shoulder with the right hand so placed as to require but 

 little change. 



The butt of the gun should rest firmly against the 

 shoulder, well toward the breast, and not on the arm, keep- 

 ing the elbow well out from the body and the left arm ex- 

 tended almost straight, as if pointing at the object you are 

 shooting at, as it is with this arm you control your aim. In 

 this way you can easily carry the sight on a moving object. 

 An hour each day spent in study and practice will soon 

 make you proficient in handling your gun. as well as a 

 pleasant muscular exercise. 



Inasmuch as human nature is one bundle of habits, it 

 is quite important that they be correctly formed, for once 

 formed they are instinctively followed. The old saying 

 that " it is hard to teach old dogs new tricks," is a true one; 

 hence the importance of starting aright. While in the pur- 

 suit of game, carry your gun habitually in one position; this 

 may seem unimportant, but don't forget it. To become a 

 successful wing shot, form a habit of instantaneous action, 

 (when you detect the presence of game) and it must never 

 be lost sight of. 



Carry your gun in a position that you can easily and 

 promptly throw it to your shoulder with the hammers at full 

 cock, and never forgetting the direction of your hunting 

 companion, or dog, and under no circumstances point your 

 gun toward them; then you will never mourn the accidental 

 loss of a prized companion, or valuable dog. A very good 



