Scotland January 2018

Leaving Sweden in early January is not a tough decision to make, and if the reason for leaving is shooting in Scotland, it is even less tough. Along with the instructor-team from Susegårdens Shooting School, situated in the southwest of Sweden, the journey began.

The aim of this trip was to have a good time together and to get tested on high bird-shooting, since we all instruct on such birds. With that specification dropped to Willie and Louise at WL Sporting all the arrangements were made.

We flew out from Copenhagen on the 8th of January, arriving in a bit misty Edinburgh. We were then picked up by Alan, who owns and runs the great pub, the Black Bull, in Lauder. The following day began with a good Scottish breakfast and then off for a walked up/rough shooting-day. The weather couldn’t have been better, and the scenery was just stunning!

Returning to the Black Bull at night was another nice experience, just unloading boots and guns, then having a pint with everyone in the pub. It’s always nice to meet new people, having a laugh and to get some information from the other team of guns staying there.

Waking up the following day, feeling quite nervous about what to expect. With gear packed and smiles on our faces, we drove off to the hills at Longcroft. A name that echoes with respect amongst shooting men, and upon arrival one could see why. The valleys rising as walls on both sides, just the scenery made the pulse rise slightly. This is nowhere to be found at home, or anywhere else for that matter.

The shooting was marvellous, high and fast birds, educated through a season of turning and swirling between guns. This was what we came for and it proved to be the ultimate sport for the team. We all had some birds to remember for life, and a few missed shots too. I don’t think I just speak for myself when I, on my return, felt quite humble and wondering on how to be able to do this again. Preferably as soon as possible.

A big thanks to Alan at the Black Bull, Toby, Michael, Reuben and Bob and his team of keepers and beaters. And a sincere thanks to Giles, Beatrice and Olof at Susegårdens Shooting School (www.susegarden.se) for giving me the opportunity to come along. I would also like to thank Willie Cole and Louise Gränne at WL Sporting (www.wlsporting.com) for making this a memorable experience.

One thing is sure, with all this in hindsight, I will return.

Magnus Berg

https://www.cmbshooting.com/