January/February 2019

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Editor’s Note by Ralph Stuart
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The fall has flown by, and a number of bird seasons are winding down or effectively over. Thankfully there remain opportunities for Southern quail and late-season waterfowl, and the diehards can brave the weather for upland pursuits in the cold and snow. But for many wingshooters the shoulder season is a time for cleaning guns and reflecting on recent hunts. And to start planning for next year.

I mention this because, if you have any interest in a new adventure, now is the time to set the wheels in motion. My first recommendation is that you read “Prized Places” (p. 64), in which a dozen Shooting Sportsman masthead editors reveal their favorite spots to hunt and shoot. This should serve as inspiration and offer a few ideas.

Next I suggest that you plan to attend one of the Safari Club shows. They’re coming right up, with the Safari Club International Hunters’ Convention in Reno from January 9 to 12, and the Dallas Safari Club Convention (in Dallas) from January 17 to 20.

If you’ve never been to one of these gatherings, you’ve been missing out. A big misconception is that they are focused solely on big game, but both offer plenty for bird hunters—and in fact have dedicated wingshooting sections. Exhibitors include guides and outfitters from around the globe, some of the world’s best gunmakers, a collection of talented wildlife artists and more. Interested in driven shoots in the UK or Europe? You’ll find them here. Mixed-bag opportunities in Africa or South America? They have them. Upland or waterfowl hunts in North America? Plenty of choices. What’s more, you can peruse the offerings and ask as many questions as you’d like in a relaxed and upbeat atmosphere.

Have a spouse with doubts? There is plenty to do and see around both cities, and the organizations themselves offer entertaining seminars, banquets and auctions during the days and evenings. (Hint: The auctions often yield some sweet guns, trips and art for reasonable prices—and good causes.)

Of course, Shooting Sportsman will be exhibiting at both shows, and we hope you’ll stop by to say hello—and perhaps ask our advice on a prospective trip. We also would be happy to chat about our Readers & Writers Adventures program, if you’re interested in a great hunt with a fun group.

For more information on the conventions, visit showsci.org or biggame.org/convention.
See you there!

Ralph P. Stuart

Features

Prized Places

Our editors reveal their favorite destinations

The Parker Reproduction Story

Remembering the rebirth of an American classic

By David Trevallion

Chukars of Late

Last-gasp partridge on the steep & slippery

By Garhart Stephenson

Back to Bolivia

A return trip for doves, pigeons and bass

By Gary Kramer


Departments

From the Editor

It’s show time for travel planning

Letters

West Nile Virus, the cruelty of cancer, and point vs. flush

The Opener

Heading out in a Plum Island nor’easter

Game & Gun Gazette

Delta Marsh, the Duck Stamp winner, new shooting grounds, book reviews and more

Gun Review

Looking good with Browning’s B15 Beauchamp

By Bruce Buck

Field Gear

Items for a year of goal setting

By The Editors

Going Public

Alaska grousing within reach of a road

By E. Donnall Thomas Jr.

Going Places

Pigeons & doves with Soar No More

By Roger Sanger & Steve Helsley

To the Point

Finding adventure close to home

By Tom Huggler


Scattershot

Great advice for the sporting life

Gear Guide

Shooting gloves for winter weather

By Ralph Stuart

The Gun Rack

The Mossberg SA-28 All Purpose Field—for the fun of it

By Ralph Stuart

Shooting

Best reads for becoming a better wingshot

By Chris Batha

From the Bench

A visit to the shop of Dan Cullity & Son Restoration

By Ed Carroll

Shot Talk

New and expanded lines from Rio Ammunition

By Tom Roster

Hunting Dogs

Getting “in the zone” for productive training

By Ronnie Smith & Susanna Love

Conservation

An update on the sage grouse situation

By Ronnie Smith & Susanna Love


On the cover: Two Parker Reproduction DHE Grades photographed by Terry Allen

Additional photos: Mark Beedie; Courtesy of Browning; Bill Buckley


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