I previously wrote that I had a hard time finding a place to allow a ML shotgun for bird hunting on private property. I finally found a club that came up with a way to fit me within their rules. Although still hesitant, I typically hunt by myself with my own dog so that helped them give in. A big concern was the "Safe Zone(s)" where a gun is supposed to have the action open. Although we had a plan to put a colored ribbon on the muzzles I haven't had to use it because I don't really encounter other people during the weekdays and times that I go. Today the owner did have a huge compliment. He said he heard back from the guides that have seen me out walking, hunting and shooting. The first thing he said he like was that the gun was not "ready to shoot". He means because the hammers are not cocked. He said that most of the accidents in the past were from someone "snap shooting" or "quick shooting" when they saw a flash they perceived to be a bird. He said he now realizes that I have to be very intentional just prior to shooting and the little delay could be a good thing. Next, he likes that there are no hulls or wads left behind. There are a ton of empty shells lying about even though they ask that people pick them up. Moreso, I see a ton a plastic wads scattered around. Whatever comes out of my muzzles is biodegradable to a large extent and not noticeable. He also said people reloading quickly and getting careless caused some issues. He now knows how methodical and intentional reloading is. Overall, he said he really appreciates that I chose to use a ML shotgun and after seeing me this season he wishes more people would consider it. I'm glad this worked out and really hadn't thought about or considered these things, but he's right. I offered to bring two ML's and introduce people on the skeet range and come along in the field for one of their guided hunts if customers were interested in a black powder bird hunt. He's going to spread the word and offer that as an option.
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