The Highs and Lows
The Milky Way was at arm’s length, asking to be brushed by fingertips that tingled in a night chill. On the edge of that expanse was the Southern Cross, a marvel of nature and symbol of tranquility. I stood in reverent awe, allowing this scene to bring refreshment from a dour mood that had consumed the day. There was some transformation as a result, but tranquility didn’t immediately become the overriding emotion.
The evening in question closed the third of a five-day hunt in South Africa. I had booked with Louis Steenkamp (sofalasafaris.com), as I had the previous year. That adventure had been nearly perfect, and I was able to collect a fine nyala bull while using an Osage self-bow and cedar arrows. I had hoped for a similar experience on this trip, but nothing had worked out as desired. For three days, gusty winds had battered the bushveld, the only constant being their variables from the south one minute, from the north the next. The scent of hunter and PH permeated every inch in every direction. Game was locked down.
To make matters more complex, abundant rainfall during May held this June expedition captive. Leaves that should have littered the bushveld floor still clung to branches, creating a curtain that hid any creature that might be there. Even the waterholes were sustaining precious little use during daylight. Two days remained, and here I was beneath that glorious sky, looking upward for solace.
Louis Steenkamp is a true gentleman. I have known him for years, and he has visited my home and trophy room on more than one occasion. He was sympathetic and understanding of the situation and offered encouragement. However, if things didn’t change soon, I stood a reasonable chance of leaving Africa with all my black-powder cartridges unfired.
Esta historia es de la edición Fall 2017 de The Black Powder Cartridge News.
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Esta historia es de la edición Fall 2017 de The Black Powder Cartridge News.
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ON HUNTING AND SNIPING
Long-range target shooting here in the U.S. has become increasingly popular, at least since the first International Match with the Irish team in 1874.
Death in the Desert
This Colt .45 “Peacemaker” was found out in the desert in historically one of the most dangerous places on Earth.
A COVID-19 Project
As far as the COVID-19 pandemic is concerned, I can’t find much good to say about it. One thing I can say, though; I had a lot of idle time on my hands. After perusing YouTube videos during this time of lockdown, I came across a company that makes rifle kits – Kibler’s Long Rifles.
Smithmoor .22 Offhand Target Championship NSmithmoor Rangen Carpenter, Wyoming – February 20-21, 2021
The Smithmoor .22 Offhand Target Championship held February 20-21, was a great success! It was a two-day match with 50 record shots per day on the 100-yard German Ring Target from SPG Sales (blackpowderspg.com). Wyoming Schuetzen Union rules were used.
A .40 Caliber Long-Range Rifle
During a recent stay in New Zealand, we found ourselves in Rotorua, which is the stomping grounds of expert Kiwi rifleman, Laurie Kerr. Laurie has been a friend since we first met at Raton, New Mexico, a number of years ago and we have managed to stay in relatively good communication ever since.
BE MORE THAN A Wannabe PART II
Since my first article was published in Issue No. 113 of The Black Powder Cartridge News, I have received several emails and groups from readers.
The Hide Hunting Exploits of HARRY “SAM” YOUNG
It’s difficult now to remember exactly where I first read or heard about Hard Knocks by Harry “Sam” Young. The book is an extremely entertaining read and in the Publisher’s Note, it specifically states, “The great lesson of this book is that “truth is stranger than fiction.”
Match Results
World’s Largest Black Powder Target Rifle Match Phoenix, Arizona – March 1-10, 2021 BEN AVERY SHOOTING FACILITY
The Wyoming Schuetzen Union's “Center Shot”
John Bodine, “Old Reliable”
Who Was Albert F. Mitchell?
When somebody hears the words “Sharps rifle,” the first things that probably come to mind are the great buffalo hunts, the “Wild and Wooly West” and tales of long-range shots, Indian attacks, and hunters freezing in blizzards.
