Originally published in 1853, this is Surtees' great comedic hunting novel. Delightfully illustrated throughout with pen-and-ink sketches, it follows the misadventures of the ghastly Mr Sponge in the hunting field. Still very amusing after all this time, there are many 'hunting types' described that are easily recogniseable today. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. Hesperides Press are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork. Contents Include: Our Hero - Mr. Benjamin Buckram - Peter Leather - Laverick Wells - Mr. Waffles - Laverick Wells - Our Hero Arrives at Laverick Wells - Old Tom Towler - The Meet, The Find and The Finish - The Feeler - The Deal and The Disaster - An Old Friend - A New Scheme - Jawleyford Court - The Jawleyford Establishment - The Dinner - The Tea - The Evening's Reflections - The Wet Day - The F.H.H. - A Country Dinner-Party - The F.H.H. Again - The Great Run - Lord Scamperdale at Home - Mr. Spraggon's Embassy to Jawleyford Court - Mr. and Mrs. Springwheat - The Finest Run That Ever Was Seen! - The Faithful Groom - The Cross Roads at Dallington Burn - Bolting the Badger - Mr. Puffington; Or, The Young Man About Town - The Man of P-r-o-r-perty - A Swell Huntsman - The Beaufort Justice - Lord Scamperdale at Jawleyford Court - Mr. Bragg's Kennel Management - Mr. Puffington's Domestic Arrangements - A Day with Puffington's Hounds - Writing a Run - A Literary Bloomer - A Dinner and a Deal - The Morning's Reflections - Another Sick Host - Wanted, A Rich God-Papa! - The Discomfited Diplomatist -Puddingpote Bower, The Seat of Jogglebury Crowdey, Esq - A Family Breakfast on a Hunting Morning - Hunting the Hounds - Country Quarters - Sir Harry Scattercash's Hounds - Farmer Peastraw's Dine-Matinee - A Moonlight Ride - Puddingpote Bower - Family Jars - The Trigger - Nonsuch House Again - The Debate - Facey Romford - The Adjourned Debate - Facey Romford at Home - Nonsuch House Again - A Family Breakfast - The Rising Generation - The Kennel and the Stud - The Hunt - Mr. Sponge at Home - How They Got Up The "Grand Aristocratic Steeplechase" - Hot The "Grand Aristocratic" Came Off - How Other Things Came Off - How Lord Scamperdale and Co. Came Off

THE WILDFOWLER - A TREATISE ON FOWLING, ANCIENT AND MODERN. By H.C. Folkard. Originally published in 1859, this scarce early work on Wildfowling in all its various forms, is both expensive and hard to find in any edition. READ COUNTRY BOOKS have now republished the third and best edition of 1875, using the original text and engravings. The author was an acknowledged expert in the art of wildfowling, and this book is probably the best researched and most descriptive early title on this increasingly popular field sport. It ranks among the highest class of sporting literature. The book's substantial four hundred and thirty six pages contain numerous Comprehensive Chapters: Fowling. Ancient Methods. History of Decoys. (nine chapters) Decoy Ducks. The Flight Pond. Wild Fowl Shooting. The Fowler's Dog. Language of Wild Fowl. Flight of Wild Fowl. The Gunning Punt. Punt Guns. Management of the Punt Gun. Punting by Daylight. The Sailing Punt. Night Punting. Goose Shooting. The Quarry (20 detailed chapters). Wild Swan Shooting. Shooting Yachts, Boats and Canoes. The Cripple Chase. Wild Duck Shooting. Coastal Shooting. Fenland Shooting. Methods of Capturing Woodcock. Laws Affecting Wild Fowl. Fowling Abroad. (11 chapters) Rock Fowling in The Shetlands, Orkney and St. Kilda. Wildfowling Ashore by Night. Snipe and Woodcock Shooting. Etc, etc. The contents are nicely illustrated with full page steel engravings and several wood-cuts. This is a fascinating read for any dedicated shooting man, fowler, or historian of the sport, but also contains much information that is still useful and practical today. ..."With fiery burst, The unexpected death invades the flock Tumbling they lie, and beat the flashing waves, Whilst those remoter from the fatal range Of the swift shot, mount up on vig'rous wing, And wake the sleeping echoes as they fly." Many of the earliest sporting books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. READ COUNTRY BOOKS are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.Keywords: Wild Fowl Punt Gun Decoy Ducks Acknowledged Expert Country Books Field Sport Decoys Engravings Treatise Fowler Daylight Sailing

For the first time, take an in-depth look at the techniques, characteristics, and philosophy of the Israeli school of combat shooting. This book is a guide to the basic principles of the Israeli Method, and, more importantly, the proper preparation and mental attitude for weapon safety and combat. The Israeli Method is presented in a clear, concise manner, and features photographs depicting the tactics and techniques used. The book also answers many specific questions regarding gun safety, handling of weapons, firing positions, use of cover, handling technical problems, and much more. Note that this book is not a manual and not intended as a lesson. The objective is not to teach, propagandize, or "sell" the Israeli Method, but rather to illustrate it, clear up misconceptions, and answer specific questions regarding the philosophy and scientific choices that stem from a deep experience in the field. The reader will be able to integrate the techniques presented here into their own skill-set and abilities.

In Quantitative Ammunition Selection, Charles Schwartz presents an accessible mathematical model that allows armed professionals and lawfully-armed citizens to evaluate the terminal ballistic preformance of self-defense ammunition using water as a valid ballistic test medium. Based upon a modified fluid dynamics equation that correlates highly (r=+0.94) to more than 700 points of manufacturer-and laboratory-test data, the quantitative model allows the armed professional to generate ballistic test results equivalent to those obtaines in calibrated 10 percent ordnance gelatin. Using data generated from water test, the quantitative model accurately predicts the permanent wound cavity volume and mass, terminal penetration depth, and exit velocity of handgun projectiles as these phenomena would occur in calibrated 10 percent ordnance gelatin and soft tissue.

A retired law enforcement professional, Schwartz provides a concise explanation of the relevant principles of mechanics, fluid dynamics, and thermodynamics pertaining to the model and its derivation.

The quantitative model is clearly presented with illustrated computational examples that provide guidance to the armed professional in every aspect of the model's application.

This book is all about hunting wild turkey throughout the central Pennsylvania counties of Mifflin, Centre and Huntingdon. It's a collection of the many hunts experienced by the author and his turkey hunting companions from the fall of 1943 until the present. Each and every story is true. Not only are they entertaining, but they teach the do's and don'ts of turkey hunting. As the stories unfold, we'll be sneaking, setting up, calling, listening and watching. Sometimes we're successful; sometimes we're not. We soon learn, however, that some of our best memories are about the turkeys that got away.

Maurice Thompson s The Witchery of Archery is America's classic treatise on the subject of archery. Topics covered include: Archery Weapons, The Bow, To Make A Bow, Stringing the Bow, The Bowstring, The Arrow, The Shooting Glove, The Quiver and Belt, The Bracer, The Target, The Ascham, The Care of Tackle, How to Shoot and more.

Toxophilus -The School Of Shooting (History of Archery Series) Roger Ascham This work comprises of two books combined together: The First Book of the School of Shooting and The Second Book of the School of Shooting. They are written in the form of a dialogue between Toxophilus 'A lover of the bow' and Philogus 'A lover of learning'. In the discussion Toxophilus justifies his love of archery as a pastime, puts forward his reasons for retaining the bow as a weapon of war instead of the newly favoured hand gun, and he gives practical instructions on the technique of shooting in the bow. Contents Include - Chronicle of the life, Works, and Times of Roger - Ascham - Apologia - The Royal Arms - Dedication to the King Henry VIII - To All Gentlemen and Yeoman of England - The First Book Of The School Of Shooting- The Second Book Of The School Of Shooting - The Table Of Contents Of The First Book Of The School Of Shooting - The Table Of The Second Book Of The School Of Shooting - Glossary of Old Words - Imprints of the first two editions of Toxophilus - Originally published in 1544. Many of the earliest books, particularly those dating back to the 1900s and before, are now extremely scarce and increasingly expensive. Obscure Press are republishing these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions, using the original text and artwork.

The complete fisherman's friend The fully updated Fishing For Dummies, 3rd Edition, experienced angler and fishing writer Greg Schwipps shows that while none of us is born to angling, we can all achieve it--and become great at it. Whether you love fishing for fun or sport, this hands-on friendly guide has everything you need to make sure that there need never be such a thing as "the one that got away!" From trout to carp, catfish to bonefish, freshwater to saltwater, the easy-to-follow pictures and tips help you recognize and deal with what you'll meet in the murky deep. You'll also find out about the best times and the right spots to cast your line, as well as the right gear--which in these hi-tech days includes GPS, apps, and sonar! Gear up with the right rod and tackle Cast and bait effectively Gut and clean your catch Get hooked on new trends--kayak fishing! Whatever your line--a quiet afternoon at the local creek, or a punishing morning's whitewater kayaking followed by fishing the lonesome wild--Fishing For Dummies has you covered.

Jam-packed with practical valuable information for fishermen everywhere, this handbook describes the hundreds of ties and bends used to connect line to the many types and kinds of hooks, leaders, lures, nets, traps, and seines. The text and illustrations are amply detailed and so clear that all guesswork is eliminated. The making and repairing of nets is thoroughly covered, as well as the making and repairing of seines and traps. With this guidebook in hand the novice can learn to make good nets and traps in a very short time. The veteran fisherman will find it an indispensable reference tool. Whether you fish for fun or to make a living, this is a valuable addition to your tackle box

SPORT IN IRELAND WITH NOTES AND PROSE IDYLS ON SHOOTING AND TROUT FISHING. By W. Barry. This scarce book was first published under the title "Moorland and Stream," in London 1871. Relatively few books have been penned dealing with early field sports in Ireland. This fascinating volume helps fill that gap. The author writes from his own memorable experiences with gun and rod across the wilder parts of the "Emerald Isle." His words bring to life the sport and sporting characters encountered during his adventures on Irish moorland and water. READ COUNTRY BOOKS has now re-published this compelling title using the original text. The book's 300+ pages contain 22 detailed chapters describing the author's various experiences whilst Cock Shooting, Grouse Shooting, Wildfowling, Partridge Shooting, Snipe Shooting, Plover Shooting, Trout Fishing etc. Irish rural life, its characters and the inevitable "craic" are much in evidence throughout. This unusual historical record of 19th century Irish field sports is recommended for a place on every true sportsman's bookshelf. Many of the earliest sporting books, particularly those dating back to the 1800s, are now extremely scarce and very expensive. READ COUNTRY BOOKS are reprinting these classic works in affordable, high quality, modern editions. These editions are republished using the original text and artwork.

This is a tribute to this magnificent fish and to steel-headers throughout the Pacific Northwest who have worked to protect steelhead and the rivers they inhabit. Full of helpful hints and secrets for success, this descriptive book hooks its readers and takes them down to the riverbank to feel the power of this extraordinary fish.

Deer stalking entails much more than walking the countryside with a rifle; there is a great deal to be considered prior to lacing boots and donning a green fleece. It is often said that the real work starts after the trigger has been squeezed. This book looks at all aspects of the pursuit, with clear explanations accompanied by advice, images and anecdotes. In addition, there is a unique reference chapter of all potential conditions a deer may suffer from, with full descriptions and images, and advice on suitability for entering the food chain. Specific coverage includes: laws, leases and making a start obtaining an FAC: the necessary equipment in this technological age; deer species, with identifying images; deer senses and how they shape our approach to them; shot placement and maximum shooting distances; the importance of bullet design and its effect on the carcass; stalking activities by month through the year; after the stalk - sticking, initial evisceration, inspection and recovery; at the larder - hygiene, and who needs to register as a food business and finally, inspecting the carcass, with a library of images showing conditions.

An analysis of the hunt, its imagery and allusion, in Middle English literature. This book examines for the first time the tradition of hunting imagery and allusion in specifically Middle English literature, and discovers that it differs from the parallel European tradition in its use of certain images. Anne Rooney begins with a review of the Middle English hunting manuals, the texts that taught the art of hunting principally through instruction in the terminology, horn calls and attendant ceremony of the hunt. The second chapter sets the Middle English tradition in its European context, with an account of the inheritance from Classical and medieval French literature. The central part of the book identifies and categorises hunting images in verse and prose romance, other narrative verse, lyric poetry and religious writings of many types. The final two chapters reassess hunting images in two important Middle English texts, The Book of the Duchess and Sir Gawain and the Green Knight. Dr ANNE ROONEY teaches medieval English literatureat the University of Cambridge.

Your Informative (and Entertaining!) Guide to Fly Fishing Fly fishing is a wonderful way to catch fish, and it is much simpler than you might think. More and more people are using this thrilling technique to catch trout, bluegill, sailfish, and more. You can count yourself among them. It just takes the right equipment, a little bit of know-how, and some practice. If you've never tried because you heard it's "too hard," then you are missing out! In Thrasher's Fly Fishing Guide, professional fly fisher Susan Thrasher provides an all-in-one resource to get you on the water and fly fishing with success. Inside You'll Find: Introduction to the basics, including terminology and equipment Discussion of various methods, from dry fly fishing to Euro nymphing Personal stories and anecdotes to entertain and encourage Advanced tips, such as fly fishing from a kayak and understanding various fly line designs Recommendations on lodging, guides, and nearby activities for destination trips Whether you've never hooked a fish or have spent your whole life casting a fly to that elusive brown trout, you'll enjoy Thrasher's engaging writing style, and you'll appreciate her step-by-step approach that can take you from "never tried" to "let's go again tomorrow!"

Many women want to join join the swelling ranks of those who have purchased a firearm to defend themselves, their honor, and their property with, but aren't sure where to start. This book explains the details of purchasing a handgun, shotgun, or rifle to defend your person, or home and hearth with.

Written by an acknowledged expert, this invaluable book is aimed at archers of all levels, from those starting out in the sport to those taking part in competitions at the highest levels. The author analyses shooting techniques and tuning, and also emphasizes the development of mental toughness; he argues that this goes hand in hand with the mastery of the physical aspects of the sport. This comprehensive guide to shooting covers: how to get started in archery, the costs involved, choosing and using equipment and the basics of shooting; setting up your equipment and initial tuning; the biomechanics of shooting; the tactics and preparation work involved in archery competitions; physical fitness, nutrition and psychology; arrow selection and preparation; making bowstrings and, finally shooting techniques, improving performance and the fine-tuning of equipment.

Witty, shrewd, and always a joy to read, John Gierach, "America's best fishing writer" (Houston Chronicle) and favorite streamside philosopher, has earned the following of "legions of readers who may not even fish but are drawn to his musings on community, culture, the natural world, and the seasons of life" (Kirkus Reviews). "After five decades, twenty books, and countless columns, [John Gierach] is still a master" (Forbes). Now, in his latest original collection, Gierach shows us why fly-fishing is the perfect antidote to everything that is wrong with the world. "Gierach's deceptively laconic prose masks an accomplished storyteller...His alert and slightly off-kilter observations place him in the general neighborhood of Mark Twain and James Thurber" (Publishers Weekly). In Dumb Luck and the Kindness of Strangers, Gierach looks back to the long-ago day when he bought his first resident fishing license in Colorado, where the fishing season never ends, and just knew he was in the right place. And he succinctly sums up part of the appeal of his sport when he writes that it is "an acquired taste that reintroduces the chaos of uncertainty back into our well-regulated lives." Lifelong fisherman though he is, Gierach can write with self-deprecating humor about his own fishing misadventures, confessing that despite all his experience, he is still capable of blowing a strike by a fish "in the usual amateur way." "Arguably the best fishing writer working" (The Wall Street Journal), Gierach offers witty, trenchant observations not just about fly-fishing itself but also about how one's love of fly-fishing shapes the world that we choose to make for ourselves.