The stag – a majestic animal. It grows new antlers every year. Hunting red deer is one of the most impressive experiences of any hunting career.
No sooner have we reached
the edge of the forest
in the first light of dawn when we see the silhouette of a mature stag in the meadow ahead of us. Moving slowly, my guide raises her EL Range TA to her eyes to confirm the sighting. I silently take up position three paces to his right.
I open the cover of the AFL and immediately have the stag in the field of view of my rifle scope. Despite the cold and my deep breathing, the image is crystal-clear.
The stag is less than 50 meters (55 yards) away and isn’t aware of us yet. The meadow rises up slightly behind it, giving me a clear shot. I can make out the hooked ends of the impressive antlers. I am now sure that this is the right stag. The tension suddenly ratchets up a notch.
I quickly glance at my companion who nods in confirmation. And I’m already running through my practised shooting sequence. My mind and gaze are focused on the deer and my breathing deepens. I use my thumb to cock and release the firearm. The illuminated dot of the reticle comes to rest just behind the shoulderblade. This is the moment I had been hoping for.
