Thread: Another Hunter Killed

Guys, this article provides the most information currently available to the public that I have found so far on this latest accidental shooting. Shock after accidental hunting death - National - NZ Herald News

"We" need to rise to the "challenge" set by Tussock.

One point I would make is that there is a big difference between knowing the 7 basic rules of firearm safety and actually practicing them correctly.

I think that a HUNTS course (based on articles I have read about peoples experience on them and on the premise and structure of the course) addresses the practical aspects of the "7 basics", but even then will that translate to the "real world" reality of hunting, 5 years later, with "buck fever' thrown in?

I naturally resist a call to "compulsory this or that", until there is evidence it will actually have a benefit.

Playing the devils advocate here, in the last 2 high profile bush shootings, the guy pulling the trigger is not who you would expect to make such a mistake.

#1. Christopher Dummer, a former president of the Wellington Deerstalkers' Association.
#2. Henry Worsp, an experienced hunter and fisherman who is known by the nickname "8-shot" and has more than 10 years' experience managing outdoor safety.

I believe good practical instruction on the "7 Basics", with scenario based teaching, is just ONE part of the solution. We also ALL need to practice the 7 Basics correctly, EVERY TIME we are around firearms.

This event has galvanised me to complete a HUNTS course as soon as I can.

Firearm safety starts with us. Knowing right from wrong is not enough, we need to practice the right way all the time, and ensure others around us do as well.

What do people think about a forum section devoted to firearm safety? I would envisage that it had a sticky with the seven basic rules and links to suitable literature on safely identifying your target. I would also suggest considering incorporating a HUNTS course calender with up coming courses and how to apply (obviously this would need to be agreed with by NZDA).

Finally, my thoughts on this latest shooting accident:

This is a terrible accident, tragic for all involved and a spine tingling reminder that you can't be too careful, either behind the trigger or "in front of" the barrel.

I have sympathy for the guy who pulled the trigger. That would be my worst nightmare.

Be careful out there. Sounds like the hunting community lost a real good bloke. It doesn't need to loose anymore.

Cheers, Carl