164 
FOREST AND STREAM 
baud, without any impulse in any other direction. All that 
can be done to overcome this effect of gravitation, is to im- 
part such velocity to its forward motion as may carry it as 
far as possible during a given period, and thus increase the 
proportionate difference between the horizontal and the verti- 
cal movements. Now, we can give to a bullet an initial 
velocity of 1,700 feet in a second, and by so doing the fall 
during I he fraction of a second occupied in passing over the 
first hundred yards (300 feet) will be so slight that for all 
practical purposes the trajectory may be treated as a straight 
line. There arc various methods of ascertaining the trajec- 
tory some of which are elaborate, and require more pains 
than’ most nun can conveniently bestow. Others are more 
simple and sufficiently accurate for all practical purposes. 
Any man can test his own rifle without difficulty by provid- 
in'' himself with a number of paper targets made with a 
horizontal and a vertical line crossing each other in the 
centre, and shooting at them from different points on level 
around, aiming always at the intersection of the lines, and 
using the same sights at all the different distances. The 
best way to do it is to learn first the exact distance for which 
the fixed sights on the barrel are set, that is to say — the dis- 
tance lit which the bullet will strike the horizontal line when 
aimed exactly at it through those sights. If the gun is pro- 
vided with an elevating peep-sight on the stock, it will be 
well to set it in the first place, so that when sighting through 
it the bead of the muzzle sight can just be seen through tne 
uotch of the rear sight on the barrel. This will prevent the 
danger of variation in sighting which would result from 
usin" the barrel sights alone. 
Having ascertained the point for which the gun is sighted, 
which we will suppose to be seventy-five yards, put up a 
fresh target, and begin at twenty-five yards, shooting from 
a fixed rest, the simplest arrangement for which is a table 
with a seat beside it, so that the right arm may be firmly 
supported with a contrivance for a muzzle rest in front. 
Fire as many shots as will suffice to give a satisfactory aver- 
age of the distance above the line at which the bullets strike. 
Then label the target “ twenty-five yards,’ - and replace it 
with a fresh one, and retire to fifty yards and repeat the 
operation. Then go to one hundred (no need to try seventy- 
five because that has previously been found to be the point 
where the bullets just strike the line), then 125, 150, and so 
on, as far as is thought desirable, aiming always exactly at 
the intersection of the lines, and carefully labeling each tar- 
get before laying it aside. Then measure and calculate the 
average distances above the line at twenty-five and fifty yards, 
and below the line at 100 and beyond, and it is obvious that 
this will show all that is needed for practical application in 
sporting service. And those who are not familiar with such 
tests will be surprised to find in many instances that rifles 
which they had thought very accurate* because they could 
make bull’s-eyes with them at every shot, when the distance 
was measured and the sight set at the proper elevation, vi\\\ shoot 
three or four inches above the line at twenty-five and fifty 
yards, and as much below at one hundred. A moment's re- 
flection will show the hopelessness of trying to do nice 
shooting, when 6uch an allowance as this must be made, and 
when as in game shooting, the distance must be estimated 
on the instant for each shot. A really good sporting gun 
outfit not to show a greater dillerence than three inches be- 
tween twenty-five and one hundred yards. This would 
allow the aim to be taken exactly at the object for that dis- 
tance, and a full bead would suffice for 150 yards. 
If manufacturers would have a careful test made of the 
trajectories of their sporting rifles, and furnish statements 
setting forth the length, weight and calibre of the 
gun, the weight of the bullet and the weight and 
quality of powder, and then the distance for which the 
gun was sighted, and the variation of the trajectory 
above the line at shorter distances and below it for 
greater ones, it would furnish exactly the information 
wanted. Auy gunmaker who would furnish a certificate, 
with every sporting rifle he offered for sale, stating the 
proper charge of powder and lead, and the distance for 
which its fixed sights were set, and containing a guarantee 
that the curve of its trajectory was not more than three inches 
in 100 yards, so that within that distance the aim might be 
taken e’xactly at the object without risk of a greater variation 
than one and a half inches above or below, would supply a 
want of sportsmen which would secure him a large custom, 
and drive a multitude of poor guns out of the market 
There is yet another method by which the initial velocity 
may be approximately determined, which is by the penetration 
of the bullet. It would be an exceedingly interesting and 
valuable contribution to the data already collected, if a prop- 
erly certified statement could be furnished of the ratio, which 
must, of .course, exist between the trajectory or the initial 
velocity and the power of penetration, so that one might be 
estimated from the other. We could then determine the tra- 
jectory simply by learning the calibre and weight of bullet, 
and its power of penetration. I have proved this only in a 
single instance, a statement of which will explain my mean- 
ing. With a rifle of 4-10th calibre, and a bullet weighing 312 
grains, I get a penetration at thirty yards of eight pine 
boards, each one inch thick, and placed an inch apart. The 
same charge and bullet gives a trajectory for the first 100 
yards so flat as practically to require no other change of ele- 
vation than a little fuller bead for one hundred than for fifty 
yards. 1 assume, therefore, that if a bullet of that size and 
weight gives such a degree of penetration, its initial velocity 
must be sufficient to give it a corresponding trajectory, and 
I deduce from this statement that a rifle of 4-lOths calibre, 
with a bullet of the above weight, which will give eight 
inches of penetration at thirty yards, and can be relied on to 
place every shot in an eight-inch ring at 200 yards, has suf- 
ficient force and accuracy for any possible demand of sport- 
ing service for a gun of that caliere. 
It is easy to see that a similar standard might be furnished 
for guns of any size, weight or calibre, which would enable 
any one to test his weapon without difficulty, but it is ob- 
vious that the ratio of penetration must change with every 
change of calibre and weight of gun and ammunition. 
II. W. 8. C. 
RIFLEMEN’S RIGHTS. 
Hudson, March 29, 1878. 
Editob Forest and Stream : 
It was with great pleasure I read two articles in your recent 
issues, where merit, demerit, fairueBB and unfairness, were ably 
discussed. In looking over these artloles, I think it proper to say 
a word concerning many as well as myself. The articles I have 
reference to are the one of Mr. Jackson.ofBoatoD, late of the Ameri- 
can Rifle Team, and the other, “Who Bhall Select the Next Team 
Being an ardent lover of rifle shooting, and having visited Creed- 
moor since] 1874, and being interested more or less in long-range 
matohes, private, national and international, and having the mis- 
fortune of being an adopted citizen, I would respectfully ask the 
following questions through your valuable columns, trusting that 
some of your readers will give some explanation on this subject . 
Why is it that an adopted citizen is excluded from participating 
in matches for the Centennial Trophy? Why cannot ho compete 
for a place on the trophy team ? Why oannot he enter in an in- 
ternational match with a team ? I am well aware that the Irish 
team of 1874 required in their specifications that none but an 
American-bom should shoot in that match, but since that time I 
have failed to see auy such specifications or agreements from 
foreign teams. In international matches there may possibly bo a 
slight excuse for the N. R. A. in excluding the complainants ; but 
how about the “ Palma." Was it not giyen by “Unde Sam - ’ 
to the riflemoD of the world? All nations have a right to oompete 
for it, except the adopted oitizen of Amerioa (of this free and 
demooratio country). Ho alone is told by the N. R. A. that he is 
unfit to enjoy the pleasure and boar the honor of competing for 
that national gift. The adopted oitizen is oxoluded everywhere— 
oannot oven enter a foreign team— because foreigners regard us 
as Amerioane, and no longer of their nationality, aud if, perchance, 
he could enter a team from abroad, I fanoy there would be criti- 
cisms on the part of some of tho American riflemen, especially if 
he was a superior marksman. This, in my judgment, should be 
different. I think we should have a right to eDjoy this, as other 
privileges ; ae, for instance, when a great rifle match is to bo 
gotten up, attended with expenditures, the American-born is will- 
ing to accept the aid of the adopted shooter. When tho tax col- 
lector comes none will say, “ We oannot take your money: you 
are a stranger or, in time of war, will tho American-bom say , 
"Step back, we alone will slop the enemies’ bullets.” Wfien we 
look at the Sharpshooters' Union (8chutzenbund) we find a different 
state of thiDgs. Although it originated among Swiss and Germans, 
they welcome every one, without regard to nationality. The re- 
quirements of that institution are to pay dues aud maintain 
manly conduot. Much more oould be said on thiB subject, but I 
will content myself with the above for the present, trusting that 
I have offended no one, and that justice may do done. 
Very respectfully yours, L. G. 
mid {§un. 
GAME IN SEASON IN APRIL. 
Wild ducks, geese, brant, etc. 
Game in Market— Retail Pbioes, Poultry and Game 
—Game— Partridges, ruffed grouse, per pair, $1.50 ; canvas 
back duck, $1.25; red head ducks, $1.50; Brant geese, 75 
cents ; mallard ducks, 75 ; black ducks, 50 ; widgeon ducks, 50 ; 
broad bill ducks, 50; teal ducks, 50 ; Wilson snipe, per doz., 
$1.25, $1.50 ; plover, $2 ; bay birds, large and small, 75 cents ; 
wild pigeons, flights, $1.25 ; stall fed, $2 ; Philadelphia 
squabs, $3.50. 
Poultry — Philadelphia and Bucks County dry picked chick- 
ens, per pound, 25 cents ; do., “fowls, 20; do., turkeys, 20 ; 
do., ducks, 20; do., geese, 15 ; State aud Western chickens, 
15; do., turkeys, 16 ; do., fowls, 15; do., ducks, 18; do., 
geese, 12 ; capons, 35 ; slips, 30 ; spring chickens, per pair, 
$1.50 ; Vermont frozen turkeys,, 25, 28 cents per pound. 
Massachusetts— Neio Bedford , March 29. — Snipe shooting 
has commenced in good earnest hereabouts, and some fine 
strings have been taken. There ought to be good fall shoot- 
ing in these regions, for I do not remember of seeing so many 
quail and partridges for some years, the mild winter having 
been favorable to them. Woodcock quite plenty, but now 
nearly all nesting. Conoha. 
Connecticut— Stamford, March 30.— English snipe have 
come. One was killed by Theo R. Hoyt. H. 
Rhode Island — Newport, March 4. — Our local shooters for 
the last six weeks have had sport in shooting muskrats. No 
sea fowl shooting of any consequence. Sea Duck. 
New York.— Wild geese on Lake Champlain. 
Nets Dorp, March 30.— Wilson snipe up. Seven killed yes- 
terday. Birds will be plenty for the next three or four weeks. 
Adj one wishing the services of a good dog and experienced 
shot will tiDd one in the person of John Wood at this station. 
W. A. G. 
A Formidable Expedition.— “ Jacobstaff ” and a goodly 
proportion of the Jersey City Heights Gun Club, with several 
tons (more or less) of guns and ammunition, started on Tues- 
day for Bill Lane's, Shinnecock Bay, after geese and ducks. 
We prophecy a good time and good bags. 
Buffalo , March 27. — Eight snipe were shot near the city 
last week. Preparations for the State shoot are being made. 
J. E. P. 
Pennsylvania — Titusville, April l. — Our woods are full 
of pigeons. Hundreds are killed every day. Some English 
snipe along the creek. q jj W. 
Maryland— Baltimore, April 1. — The snipe shooters have 
turned out in full force along the swamps bordering the Pa- 
tapsco, but the game is not very abundant. In the piscatorial 
sports things are slow, also, and our lovers of the rod have to 
content themselves with gudgeons, which are being caught in 
enormous quantities. A friend and myself hooked ten dozen 
of them m a few hours at the Relay, B. & O. R R., with 
hook and line. Tbaymore. 
Delaware— Lewis, March 29. — Wilson snipe are reported 
plenty on the marshes. 
Kentucky — Ashbysburg, March 24.— Every prospect for 
p enty of game the next season is seen. Squirrels are very 
plenty. Quail were not much hunted this season, and conse- 
quently there is lots for seed. Turkeys are tolerable plenty, 
and have been gobbling for a week or two. 
Paddy O’Leaby. 
—The great bald eagle of Balson Creek Range, Georgia, 
which has been a pest to stock raisers thereabouts for the last 
four years, was killed a week or two ago. The measurements 
were : 7 ft. 10]in. from tip to tip of wings ; foot, 8 in.; claw, 
3| in. 
South Carolina — Port Royal, March 23. — I notice you 
have an earlv spring at New York. It is not very early here. 
There are n^flight birds (waders) yet, although they usually 
put in their appearance by the 20th of March. We have 
steady cool nights. R. 
Tennessee — Columbia, March 25. — Squirrels are so plenti- 
ful that farmers are anxious to have sportsmen spend a week 
or two with them, offering to take them from and bring them 
back to town, and board them while hunting. I was told the 
other day by an old sportsman that the squirrels are more 
plentiful than aoy time since the year ’59, when they were 
very numerous. Val. 
Nashville, March 28.— Some few bags of jacksnipe have been 
made about here lately, but they are reported to be much less 
numerous than usual at this season. Messrs. Nicholson, Pet- 
tigrew and France, of Memphis, went over into Arkansas 
some time ago for a few days’ shooting. Besides killing seve- 
ral deer, one hundred partridges (quail) and some other game 
birds, Mr. Nicholson, by a chance shot, succeeded in killing 
an enormous wolf, which had been the terror of the farmers 
in that neighborhood for a year or two, they having lost a 
number of sheep and hogs, killed, no doubt, by him. 
Ohio —Painesville, March 29.— We have had snipe shooting 
for ten days past. Target. 
Minnesota— Eyota, March 27.— Chickens plenty this 
spring, and weather beautiful. Snipe have not put in an ap- 
pearance yet, although the season is so forward. 
Verd Mont. 
St. raul, March 30. — Shooting parties ’after ducks and 
geese is the order of the day. The birds are here by the mil- 
lions. J. S. 
Iowa — Pomeroy, March 22. — Brant, pelican, geese, etc., 
going north in large numbers. We expect snipe soon. 
Abe Daootah. 
Clinton, April 1.— Very few snipe coming in. G. E-P. 
The Season. — Our Exchange Editor reports as much sports- 
man as game shot, up to date. When will people learn that a 
loaded gun is not a walking stick, nor a hair brush, nor a 
tooth pick, nor a thing to poke another man's ribs with? 
Wild Rice.— Attention is called to the information in an- 
other column of the wild rice at English Lake, Indiana, and 
the possibility of securing the seed there. 
What the Distracted Doe Said. — How happy could I be 
with either were ’tother deer charmer away. 
Dittmar's Powder. — Our California correspondent writes 
as follows : “I have been using Dittmar powder all winter. 
I mix half and half with common ‘ Oriental Powder,’ which 
is the cheapest we can buy here for use in the shot-gun. It 
has given me the greatest satisfaction, as I can shoot all day 
and my gun will he as clean at night as after firing the first 
shot. I shoot 3J drachms of the mixture and one ounce No. 
8 shot in No. 12 gun for quail. I shall use the C. Dittmar 
alone next season, on account of the absence of smoke, as our 
quail shooting is mostly in thick brush, where the smoke 
hangs so heavy as to obscure the sight, dome of your corres- 
pondents speak of obtaining our valley quail for breeding pur- 
poses. They can be obtained here frequently alive, in cages, 
for $1.50 per dozen. Cazadoh. 
“Honor to Whom Honor is Due.” — Mr. Editor: In 
your issue of March 21, under head of Answers to Corres- 
pondents, in reply to queries made by “Long Island," you say 
it is a difficult feat to kill 85 pigeons out of 50 double rises, 
and that it never has been done. I most heartily agree with 
you in your conclusions that it is a difficult feat. But when 
you say it has never been done, 1 most respectfully beg to 
differ. I find by referring to the official scores made by John 
Taylor, which I have before me, that in his match with Mr. 
King, shotat Chicago, 111., Taylor killed 91. In his (Taylor’s) 
match with Robert Newell, shot at Syracuse, N. Y., Taylor 
killed 98. Newell killed 94. Captain Bogardus, is, without 
doubt, the best shot living, hut in all his shooting l have yet 
to see where he has equaled the scores made by John Taylor. In 
his (Taylor's) four matches with King and Newell, he averaged 
94, and, if my memory serves me right, John Taylor was the 
first to use glass balls in practice. Will notsome of his Jersey 
friends enlighten us ? Respectfully yours, Eloho. 
Clinton. Ia., March 29, 1878. 
A “ Land-Looker' 8 ” Find. — Here is a subject for our 
sensational story writers. Let it be called “The Tory Trap- 
per of Wolf Creek." For this suggestion we only ask the 
privilege of a bid for the manuscript : 
“ W. B. Leonard, a ‘land-looker,’ while tramping through 
Alpena County, found, near Wolf Creek, sixty steel trap9, a 
double-barreled rifle, a sheath knife and the bones of the man 
who once owned them.” 
That Deaf Horse.—" Aqua" writes from Danville, P. Q., 
of another instance where a horse was deafened by the dis- 
charge of a gun from the wagon. We should be pleased to 
hear further from our Cedar Rapids correspondent : 
“Last fall an acquaintance had occasion to fire a few times 
from his wagon. After tho la9t shot ‘ old Gray ’ stopped short 
and paid no attention to the command of his master ; did not 
start till struck with the reins, nor stop until pulled up — in 
fact, was ‘deaf as a po9t.’ He remained so some two or 
three weeks, then, all at once, he took a notion to hear again, 
and now his auriculars appear to be in as good working order 
as those of any other quadru or biped.” 
— Capt. Bogardus evidently means that the Britishers shall 
have ample time to prepare for him this summer. He has, 
through tho Herald , challenged all Europe to meet him in the 
field upon the occasion of his visit to the Paris Exposition, 
and the Britishers are up and doing, too. The captain has 
already received cabled acceptance of his challenge. 
