Practical Woodland Stalking- Graham Downing

Woodland deer stalking is growing rapidly in popularity as more and more shooters discover the challenge of stalking the deer which live on their doorstep. This book takes woodland stalking beyond the basics to examine in detail the techniques and tactics required in order to achieve success.

After considering the suitability of different calibres for various purposes, the book deals with the finer points of accessories such as riflescopes, moderators and bipods and explains how a more experienced stalker can make his choices from what is available in the marketplace or create his own DIY equipment. An extensive and in depth section on hunting methods is packed with practical detail and tips about successful hunting on foot and from high seats, plus the use of calls. A further aspect of stalking which is becoming increasingly popular is co-operative deer culling, and guidance is offered to the deer manager on how to organise a team cull. There is also helpful advice on assessing cull targets.

The book looks at what the successful amateur deer stalker can do with the deer which he brings home from the wild. It deals with carcass recovery, care of the carcass after hunting, building or setting up a home deer larder, selling venison to the game dealer and direct sales to the public within the framework of current game and food hygiene legislation. The book concluded with a section on venison butchery and basic processing such as home smoking and sausage making.

Reviews: 
'Well-known as an expert on the subject, Graham takes the enthusiast stalker right through from the basics - the question of which calibre, the choice of equipment - to the larder and the sale of the end product... this book is carefully and engagingly written and packs an incredible amount of information on fieldcraft and deer into its 200 pages. Books of this kind are often let down by poor illustrations - not so in this case. The images are clear, enlightening and frequently beautiful. If you are looking to get the most from your woodland stalking, this is the book for you.' Shooting Times

'Graham Downing's writing is well-known to readers of the sporting press and he is highly regarded on the subject of deer. His new book, Practical Woodland Stalking, provides advice on the basics, also covering in-depth topics such as calibres, equipment, hunting methods including co-operative deer culling, how to organise a team cull and assessing the population and cull targets. Many of the subjects covered will be useful to keepers whose deer management responsibilities are not their main priority.' NGO Keeping the Balance

'It is obvious from the very first chapter to the last that Graham Downing has amassed a huge amount of knowledge over his many years as a professional deer stalker and he takes the reader step by step through the biology of the deer and their habitat to calibre choice and the shooting techniques required. There are sections on preparation of the carcase for the game dealer and also the butchering for home use. As a stalker myself I actually picked up quite a few tips. For instance he explains several interesting techniques including the use of thermal imaging equipment. Night vision scopes could be used to the same effect. Practical Woodland Stalking is a must have for anyone involved in the culling of deer, from the novice to the professional.' Scottish Gamekeeper