Thread: Carrying firearm on doc track

I made a cover out of ripstop nylon and elastic. Quick to get on/off and keeps a bit of shit/moisture out... but classically usually haven't got it on when passing people. Always make a point of stepping off the track letting people past, flick the bolt up if its in, and point muzzle away. Most people friendly/inquisitive. On older yank couple I once met on the track pointed at a headless red hind on my back <insert American Accent here> "oh my gawwwd, is that a wallaby?". Ended up having a great yarn with them, and they took a few photos. Pretty much everyone has asked whether I've seen/"caught" anything (a few have thought about it when seeing a rifle, and corrected themselves). I always make a point of mentioning how many there are about, and how much damage they are doing in the bush. Usually have a few photos of deer browsing/pig rooting to show. Most end up saying thank you/keep it up. Generally not hard to engage in some polite chit chat, ask how their day is going, how far, where to, etc.

100% have a right to be on tracks/in huts, but as hunters seem to be held to a higher standard, so I try to behave as such. As mentioned above, set a good example, clear branches from tracks, pick up rubbish (do that anyway), fill the firewood shed, if coming in to a hut late, get bedding etc ready outside hut and be quiet as poss coming in, etc., etc. Basic common courtesy. If people have nothing to complain about, then they may shift their attitude? Or god-forbid maybe just complain less?

Just go for it! Be respectful, turn on the charm, but be as said above, be confident in your right to be there.