Which hunting method to start with?

[SAFalconer]

Hi guys I really want to get into hunting but I don't know were to start. So I was wondering if anyone here could help me to make a decision as to which method to start with. I already hunt with an African Goshawk. So I'm not new to hunting but I am new to hunting with weapons. I'm open to any choice of weapon. I live in South Africa in case that need to be mentioned. Thanks guys in advance.

 

[spike.t]

why not move through the evolution of hunting weapons....you have started with falconery so bows next then guns me i would just go straight to rifles though as you get ones that are a lot nicer to look at than a bow

 

[KWALATA SAFARIS]

Just start!!!! start small with a 22 or something similar and move up if later on you get curious with regards to bow hunting try that...

We all pretty much started like that, either way it is encouraging to hear that you would like to give it a try....

My best always

 

[SAFalconer]

Thanks guys

 

[ActionBob]

I would actually suggest that you start with guns and then if you want a greater challenge, try bow hunting, aafter you become more proficient stalking, etc.

The best thing you can do is to get a simple bolt action .22 next. I hear it is great fun and challenging to try and get Guinea Fowl by sneaking up and shooting them in the head. You have various hares, etc. available as well.

Then move up to either a shot gun if you want to pursue more birds, or a larger rifle like maybe a 7x57 or 30-06 for Plains Game.... Then when you are proficient at that, move on to larger and potentially dangerous game or bow hunting the same plains game.

But do yourself the favor of starting small and moving up.... And by all means, if you are more excited about bow hunting than rifle, go right to that... Heck you can even chuck spears or use a slingshot if you want! LOL

Personally I started with a homemade slingshot as a young boy going after rats and English sparrows (air rats), then a bb gun, then a .22 for squirrels and rabbits, shotgun, and then on to whitetail deer with several rifles, and now finally Africa!!!

 

[SAFalconer]

Thanks ActionBob

 

[G Skinner]

SAFalconer I would like to hear and see more about this hunting with a falcon . Any pictures ?
Glen

 

[SAFalconer]

When you say you want to hear more about falconry do you want the basics of the sport? I don't have any photos yet but when I do I will post them.

 

[Sable123]

@SAFalconer I was lucky to of hunted with rifles since I was a kid but when I decided to break away and do my own hunting. I first bought a mid size rifle that would accommadate most plains game species and then while I was waiting for the license on my firearm to be approved which took 2 years, I went in and bought a compound bow (which you don't need a license for), practiced for 2 weeks and by the end of the month I was hunting. When my fire arm eventually was approved i was having so much fun with my bow that i hardly touched my rifle for weeks.

 

[Sable123]

@SAFalconer Also wanted to ask what part of SA you from?

 

[SAFalconer]

I like your idea Sable123. I'm in KZN. Why do you ask?

 

[Sable123]

Just curious. There are some great Outfitters in KZN you could contact them and ask if they wouldn't mind you tagging along on a cull hunt or something similar to get a feel for things. Maybe even one day look into becoming a qualified PH.