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Although I have had my 1926 vintage, AKAH marked, 9.3 x 72R X 16 gauge buchsflinte for a few years now, this is the first time I had taken it hunting. The reason, of course, was that my aging eyes had a difficult time seeing the iron sights, especially in low light conditions. The gun was equipped with scope mounts, but, of course, no rings. That all changed with a stop at Eric Meitzner’s shop near Solon Springs, WI last year. He accepted the challenge to fabricate some rings, and in a very short time, had delivered a beautifully machined set of rings that locked up perfectly. I mounted a steel tube Weaver K2.5, and was ready to shoot. Eric had done a chamber cast, and informed me that my rifle barrel had a fairly tight .347/.357, land/groove measurement. This prompted me to ask a question about correct bullet diameter on the GGCA Forum, and I soon had sound advice on developing some loads. Thanks to everyone who gave their comments and knowledge! You are all part of this success story! I soon came up with a load that would deliver .358 dia Hornady 200 gr RN bullets into a 1 inch, 3 shot group at 50 yards. I was ready for the start of the deer season! I have taken ruffed grouse, woodcock, and turkey with my German shotguns, but this would be my first attempt on big game using a German rifle. On opening morning, I was hunting on our family farm land in West Central Wisconsin. My license allowed for one buck, and one antlerless deer. Only 20 minutes into legal shooting time, a nice doe approached me. One shot, and she was down. One of my passions with owning German guns is that they should be put back into use in the fields and forests, just as their builders and former owners intended. I was absolutely thrilled with this hunt! I would like to imagine that, from somewhere, the spirit of the builder of this fine gun is smiling down at me and giving me a nod of approval, affirming that I am a suitable caretaker for his masterpiece.
I can’t wait till next season!
Waidmannsheil!
Merv Broten
germangun.jpg
I can’t wait till next season!
Waidmannsheil!
Merv Broten
germangun.jpg
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