After a quiet period at the historic house where a mate and I have been culling rabbits we both got some fairly frantic messages from different sources to go and knock over a few. It's been really windy and raining off and on over the last week so we were prevented from going out there but finally we made a date and headed out last night.
Unfortunately things weren't really on our side. First the security spotlight on a nearby factory was on right across the lawn creating long silhouettes every time we moved. My rifle was also really cold and the bolt was dirty so it was sticking and the feed was mucking up. And finally, not having shot for a while, my aim was off. Frost was already settling on the ground by 9pm and it only got colder.
After a few laps of the house where I was cursing myself and my mate was cursing the security spotlight I'd taken 5. We switched roles and he shot while I spotted but he only took 1 more. Our last trip we took 18. This time only a 3rd of that number.....a mean half dozen. I could probably have shot that number again if I'd hit all I aimed at. Anyway, here's a pic.
The conclusion I have come to is that:
- A) I need to strip the bolt and rifle, clean it and oil it. That way the rotten thing may actually cycle and feed.
- B) I must get to the range and actually have a shot from a few different positions so I know where I'm shooting. Additionally I have some reloads for my 25-20 to test and I want to give my 8x57 and 9.3x62 a test run in preparation for deer and pig hunting.
Well, there ya go. At least I came home with some and didn't have to metaphorically run round the pool table with my pants around my ankles.
