firearms but especially so with handguns, cautions the specialist.

firearms but especially so with handguns, cautions the specialist.

For shotgun enthusiasts, Hetzel advised a little trap or skeet shooting and “patterning” the shotgun. This is easily accomplished by firing at large sheets of paper or cardboard at distances of 15, 25 and 50 yards. The grouping of pellet holes on the paper lets the hunter know how his weapon performs at those distances with whatever load he is using.

Another good plan with double barrel, slide-action and semi-automatic shotguns is to Fire more than one round to get used to getting off a second or even third shot, Hetzel pointed out.

Good hunters restrict themselves to shooting only the kind of game for which they are equipped. The caliber of rifle, gauge of shotgun or size of shot being carried all place limitations on what should be hunted on any particular occasion.

Archers should be getting ready to hunt by carefully checking their equipment, sharpening broadheads and practicing with silhouette field targets. These targets, especially those which are life size, get the archer accustomed to firing at “vital spots” rather than just “at the deer.”

A good rule when hunting is always identify the intended target before firing a shot or loosening the arrow. Following this rule will help reduce hunting accidents.

“Most hunters carry some type of a cutting tool for dressing game. These knives, hand axes or bone saws should be examined carefully and sharpened. A dull knife in the field is not only frustrating but also is more dangerous than a properly honed one,” noted the Extension specialist.

Checking wearing apparel well in advance of the day it is needed will also add to the comfort of the hunt. Clothing with snags or tears from last season needs repair. Clothing should be matched to the expected temperature and