Gear up: Must-have equipment for the upcoming partridge shooting season

As the new partridge shooting season approaches, it’s essential to ensure you are fully equipped with the best gear to enhance your performance, safety, and adherence to social etiquette. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, having the right equipment can make a significant difference. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the must-have gear for the upcoming shooting season, which begins on August 12th each year.

A good quality shotgun

Your firearm is the most crucial piece of equipment for any shooting outing. Imagine taking time off work, spending considerable money on the day, only to have your gun fail—it could bring your entire day to an abrupt end unless you can borrow a replacement. Therefore, it's vital to ensure you have a reliable gun that won’t let you down in the field. For those new to shooting, you won’t look out of place with any of the following guns, which cater to a range of budgets and offer dependable performance:

• Beretta: 687 EELL, 686 Silver Pigeon
• Browning: Citori, B525
• Miroku: MK70, MK60
• Caesar Guerini: Invictus, Magnus
• Perazzi: MX8, High Tech
• Holland & Holland: Royal
• AYA: No. 2

According to a survey by Shooting UK, 72% of shooters believe that investing in a high-quality firearm has significantly improved their accuracy and overall shooting experience.

Ammunition and shot size

For partridge shooting in the UK, the choice of shotgun cartridge is crucial to ensure effective and humane kills, particularly given the smaller size and quick flight of partridges. Some of the most popular cartridges for partridge shooting include:

• Hull High Pheasant: This is one of the most favoured cartridges for partridge shooting. Known for its consistency and performance, the High Pheasant range is particularly effective at the typical ranges encountered when shooting partridges. The 30g and 32g loads are popular choices due to their balance of speed and shot spread, making them ideal for fast-moving game birds.
• Eley Hawk VIP Game: Another top contender, the Eley VIP Game cartridges are well-regarded for their quality and performance in game shooting. They are known for delivering a tight pattern, which is crucial when shooting smaller, faster birds like partridges. The fibre wad versions are particularly popular among those who prioritise environmental considerations.
• Gamebore Black Gold: Gamebore's Black Gold cartridges are a premium option, often chosen by those looking for high performance in the field. They offer high velocity and are loaded with high-quality shot, ensuring effective kills even at longer ranges. This makes them a popular choice for both partridge and other game birds.

These cartridges are favoured by shooters who prioritise reliability, consistent performance, and the ability to deliver effective kills at the various distances and conditions encountered in partridge shooting. The choice often comes down to personal preference, gun compatibility, and specific shooting conditions.

The best shot size for partridge shooting typically ranges between No. 5 and No. 7, with No. 6 being the most commonly recommended.

• No. 6 shot offers a good balance between pellet count and impact energy, providing sufficient spread to cover the bird's fast flight while delivering enough power for a clean kill. It is effective at the typical ranges encountered in partridge shooting, which are usually between 20 to 30 yards.
• No. 7 shot is also popular, particularly when shooting at closer ranges. The smaller pellets increase the number of hits, which can be beneficial in ensuring a clean kill on these smaller, fast-moving birds.
• No. 5 shot is sometimes used when partridges are being driven and might be encountered at slightly longer ranges. The larger pellets carry more energy and are effective for ensuring kills at greater distances, though with a slightly tighter pattern.

A study by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI) found that shooters using premium ammunition experienced a 15% increase in accuracy compared to those using budget options.

Hearing protection

Protecting your hearing is essential, especially with frequent exposure to loud gunfire. High-quality ear defenders or electronic earplugs, such as those from Peltor or Howard Leight, can provide excellent protection while allowing you to hear range commands and conversations. According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), proper hearing protection can reduce the risk of hearing loss by up to 90%.

Eye protection

As this is the first shooting event since February, excitement is running high, and with that, the likelihood of low birds or even ground game being shot increases. This makes safety glasses essential to protect your eyes. Brands like Oakley and ESS offer durable and comfortable options that deliver excellent protection. Depending on the shooting conditions, you can choose clear, tinted, or polarised lenses to ensure both safety and optimal visibility.

Clothing

Given the expected hot temperatures ranging from 25 to 35 degrees, it's crucial to choose your clothing wisely to stay comfortable while carrying a heavy gun and ammunition. Opt for lightweight and breathable clothing in these conditions. A good shooting vest or jacket is indispensable—not only for its practicality but also for its ability to provide ample pockets for carrying ammunition and accessories. Brands like Browning and Beretta offer excellent options that combine durability with comfort, ensuring you stay equipped without feeling weighed down.

When it comes to your shirt, a lightweight cotton shirt is ideal for keeping you cool while still maintaining a classic look. There's no need for additional layers like vests, as they could add unnecessary warmth. Instead of the traditional thick flat cap, consider wearing a baseball hat. This type of hat is better suited for hot weather, offering shade and breathability without trapping heat.

Despite the relaxed approach to other aspects of your attire, a tie remains a required element of traditional shooting dress. While it might seem counterintuitive in the heat, opting for a lightweight silk or cotton tie can help keep you in line with tradition without adding too much discomfort. By selecting the right clothing and accessories, you can stay comfortable, cool, and well-prepared during your hunt, even in the heat.

Must read:

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• Selecting the right gun (shotgun) for game shooting: A comprehensive guide
• UK Police and Heckler & Koch – Partners in crime fighting
• The use of a .410 shotgun for game hunting