The wait was over and we really were heading to Northern Ireland to compete in the World Championships but before the shooting there lay a mighty journey ahead. We left home about 3pm, delayed only by Eddie's lack of a sleeping bag - later we would find that this wouldn't be the only thing he left at home.
The first leg of the journey took us north via the M6 to Carlisle and then west to Stranraer. We made good progress once beyond Manchester and the A75 to Stranraer was traffic free so we made good time. The scenery along this road was stunning and as the sun began to set we caught a glimpse of the majestic Tawny Owl. Hopefully a good omen!
Whilst waiting in the queue for the ferry Shaun received a text from home informing him of the arrival of his EV2 from Air Arms. Sods law!
The ferry left port about 11.30pm, the crossing was short and smooth and we took the opportunity to get some kip.
Thursday 21st August - Practise and Registration.
We were back on the road by 2.30am heading from Belfast further west to the city of Armagh and our campsite at Loughgall Country Park. This took only 45 minutes and soon we were attempting sleep in a side road opposite the park entrance. No surprise that we awoke at 6am, too excited to sleep we set off for Armagh. Loughgall is about 8 miles from the city so we were walking the streets in search of food by 7am. Not many people were about but we did experience our first example of Northern Ireland hospitality; we asked a chap if there was a cafe nearby and instead of telling us he showed us. This was to be repeated every time we asked for help; lovely people. With the cafe location found we had to kill time until it opened at 9am so a walk of the city centre followed. The city skyline is dominated by two cathedrals; not to be partisan we visited both. Here are Eddie and Greg in front of the Roman Catholic version, religious buildings were interesting but we were praying for food and at last we tucked in to the best Johnstone's bakery could offer.
Satisfied we decided to take a look at the shoot location which was at the Demesne Palace. The practise range was already active, we took a look but decided that the tent needed pitching and the car contents unpacked before our plinking session.
Back to Loughgall to erect our home for the next 4 days.
With that job complete it was back to Armagh for practise and registration. The plinking range was lower than the surrounding land and this lead to some interesting swirling wind. Some were experiencing lift and others drop. Confused Eddie texted for some advice!
Registration took place at 2pm. It was here that we would find out our shooting partners and which course would first test us tomorrow. Also there was chance to walk some of the courses. The event consisted of three 50 shot courses: red, white and yellow. The targets were coloured appropriately and clearly numbered so although the lanes of the different courses were interspersed there was no chance of shooting the wrong target. There were three distinct parts to the course: woodland, open field and, unusually, ornamental garden.
Registration took place at 2pm. It was here that we would find out our shooting partners and which course would first test us tomorrow. Also there was chance to walk some of the courses. The event consisted of three 50 shot courses: red, white and yellow. The targets were coloured appropriately and clearly numbered so although the lanes of the different courses were interspersed there was no chance of shooting the wrong target. There were three distinct parts to the course: woodland, open field and, unusually, ornamental garden.We would start tomorrow on different courses. Shaun on white with Karl Kawnik from Germany, Eddie on red with another German Timo Kessel and Greg on yellow with Neil Thorneycroft from Dowry Hill. We left the course and headed home via Spar where we picked up some essential victuals. It was now mid afternoon and the broken sleep and long journey had left us jaded so a snooze was in order. To help we used Phuket; a medicinal sleep inducer from Thailand and only 49p per bottle.
After a siesta we began to meet other campers. Adjacent to us were Manuel and Jose from Spain. Despite our only Spanish being "cerveza por favor" we managed to communicate thanks to their much better English, we became good friends and hope to see them again in Spain or maybe at Weston Park next year.
After a siesta we began to meet other campers. Adjacent to us were Manuel and Jose from Spain. Despite our only Spanish being "cerveza por favor" we managed to communicate thanks to their much better English, we became good friends and hope to see them again in Spain or maybe at Weston Park next year.Across the way were Dave and Paula Schofield and Bernard and Christine Rodgers. We had got to know Dave and Paula throughout the season and when he knew we were also camping Dave promised to cook us a curry. So the day ended in good company with an excellent chicken curry. Thanks Dave and Paula!
Friday 22nd August - shoot day 1
Friday 22nd August - shoot day 1Cheerios eaten, tea drunk it was time for competition and time to show the world our Bananawear.
The practise area was, as expected, already full as shooters tried to hone their skills and have a final chance of reading the wind.
Briefing was at 9.30am, it was in a quadrangle enclosed by the Palace Stables. This was our first chance to see everyone together, there were plenty of faces we knew from the GP scene and representatives from around the world: USA, South Africa, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Poland, Russia and of course Northern Ireland. As well as new faces there was new equipment on view, a few Schmidt and Bender scopes could be seen but most interest was shown to the Mach 1 rifles of the reigning champion Paul Cray and his USA team mates.
After a short safety briefing we were off. Conditions were fine and sunny but there was the swirling wind in the field to deal with and reports of difficulty in the garden area soon came along the line. Thankfully only little wind was felt in the woods but some lanes were in shadow and interesting target placement added to the challenge.As with any GP shooters that have finished are keen to find out the top scores. The quadrangle had an adjacent restaurant so after shooting competitors could chill out with a beer or a meal whilst waiting for all the news. When the scores began to be come in there were some familiar names at the top.
Day 1 scores
1. Ian Taylor 46
2. Craig McDonald 45
2. James Woodhead 45
4. Sam Monkman 44
4. Graham McKain 44 (Scotland)
4. Dave Schofield 44
And there were plenty of scores in the 40's including Paul Cray with 42. Given that the three different courses were used simultaneously the performance of the top guys could only be compared at the end of the competition in case one of the colours proved easier or harder than the others.
What of the Bananas?
Greg started on yellow and had a steady day amassing his now usual score of 31. Top score on yellow was 45 so Greg's first day = 69% (Watch out C graders this Winter League).
Eddie had the added difficulty of shooting in spring class, a discipline he has had little chance to practise, and he was a little downbeat after hitting just 7 targets on the red course.
Shaun shot white and after a poor start and dodgy middle he scored 33 (72%) compared to 40 for Karl his shooting partner.
A Magners followed by a Guinness and then fish and chips was sufficient to prepare us for a siesta; it is important that athletes rest in-between competitions. Awake again and ready to explore the night life of Armagh we met with our first disappointment; the taxi didn't show! Undeterred we set off to walk to the closest pub the Hoggs Bar. Thirty minutes later we arrived thirsty for the black stuff but disappointment 2
The Guinness was foul! After 2 pints of Tennants the bar maid came out to our table and observed the untouched beverage, offered her apology and the next round was a free one! At this time we moved from the comfort of the beer garden to the locals' domain; the bar! Once again, be it the Dander Inn Dunfermline or the Hoggs Bar Loughgall, we were made very welcome. Our Bananawear had attracted attention and we spent a happy hour talking about shooting and countless other topics. Our journey back was in the dark, all torches still in the tent, and talk was of food. So on arrival at the tent Shaun opened 3 cans of Heinz spag bol which we scoffed along with some onion rings, biscuits etc ... From out of the darkness visitors arrived; we shared a few cans and a chat with Ian and Graeme from Dowry Hill and Lyndeen from Bisley.
Saturday 23rd August - Shoot Day 2
Rain was promised and it came, accompanied with wind, about halfway through the shoot. This meant shooters that had started in the open conditions may have been advantaged as they finished their round in the cover of the woods. On the other hand the rain did offer clues as to the direction of the wind. One constant was the cold; you can't beat the British summer!
Scores Day 2
1. Ian Taylor 46 + 45 = 91
2. Dave Schofield 44 + 46 = 90
3. Andrew Gillot 42 + 47 = 89
4. Dorian Falconer 42 + 47 = 89 (Wales)
5. Craig McDonald 45 + 43 = 88
5. Sam Monkman 44 + 44 = 88
As yesterday there were plenty of 40+ scores. Paul Cray had added 41 for a total of 83 so it looked like his title was slipping away.
What of the Bananas?
Greg was delighted with his best ever score of 35 (74%), he ended the shoot wet, cold and happy.
Eddie improved his score to 10. This picture highlights his problem; his barrel kept breaking!
Shaun matched Greg's 35 but benefited from a lower top score on the yellow course to record 76%. He also got a little closer to Karl's 38.
Armagh was also host to the Ulster Rally. The Palace grounds were used as a holding ground for some of the cars. Their flashy livery and noisy engines were seen and heard regularly as was their single air horns that lead many to think a cease fire had been called.
The Bananas were not the only Millriders competing. Each day we met Mick Tromans for a chat.
Here we are in the quadrangle under the banner showing the flags of all the countries present.
The quadrangle also offered Greg a chance to get a picture of the USA team, Paul Cray is on the right.
After the now compulsory Magners, Guinness and chip shop we tried another taxi firm that promised they'd be there. Back at the campsite it was time for a cup of tea and to analyse the day gone and discuss expectations of tomorrow. All wet we welcomed a change of clothes and footwear only for Eddie to discover his spare boots were 400 miles away; trench foot beckoned!
The campsite was a football pitch, hence very flat, within a beautiful country park. We shared the location with flocks of House Martins and Swallows and Pied Wagtails were regular visitors looking for food around our tents.
Thankfully the taxi did turn up but we had already persuaded Manuel and Jose to come to Armagh and they insisted on driving and offered us a lift! We compromised, Greg went with our Spanish friends and Eddie and Shaun obliged the taxi driver. We visited the Hole in the Wall and had a great time trying to understand each other, the bar staff supplied a writing pad to help but I'm sure the Guinness helped more. It was then off to the Charlemont Hotel where we introduced Manuel and Jose to members of the English team and other shooters. Jose particularly wanted to meet Ian Taylor who was happy to have his photo taken and arranged to swap club badges; cheers Ian for making Jose's day! With our happy amigos we headed home via the chippy where we all enjoyed chips out of the bag.Sunday 24th August - shoot day 3
We awoke to good weather with a forecast for wind later. Whilst for many it would be just another shoot for those at the top it would be a tense affair. Our campsite friends Dave and Paula were both in contention and we offered our best wishes. Day 3 is different, whilst you know the colour of your course your shooting partner will be the competitor with the closest score to your own. The day remained rain free but it was windier than the previous two days yet still the scores were high. Dave Schofield and Dorian Falconer were paired together and they had a close contest with Dorian finally coming out on top and taking 2nd overall with Dave 4th. Andrew Gillot continued his good form from yesterday and finished 3rd. Top shooter, winning his 3rd World Championship, was Ian Taylor who returned a 44 for a total of 135 and a winning margin of two targets.
Top 10
1. Ian Taylor 46 + 45 + 44 = 135
2. Dorian Falconer 42 + 47 + 44 = 133 (Wales)
3. Andrew Gillot 42 + 47 + 43 = 132
4. Dave Schofield 44 + 46 + 41 = 131
5. Trevor Ryan 41 + 44 + 46 = 131
6. Craig McDonald 45 + 43 + 41 =129 (Junior World Champion)
7. James Woodhead 45 + 40 + 44 = 129
8. Andy Calpin 41 + 44 + 44 = 129
9. Terry Almond 39 + 42 + 46 = 127 (Veteran World Champion)
10. Neil Daniels 41 + 42 + 46 = 127
Paul Schofield 40 + 39 + 43 = 122 (Ladies World Champion)
Paul James 40 + 36 + 35 = 111 (Spring World Champion)
Teams
1. England
2. South Africa
3. Russia
What of the Bananas?
Greg oozed confidence but the wind bit hard and took its toll as he returned 26 (59%).
Eddie's improvement continued as he began to master the spring gun scoring 14.
Shaun partnered BFTA spring and silhouette champion Matt Hirst. He got off to a flyer but the gremlins came in the garden. However, a good performance in the open field lead him to a score of 35 (80%).
Greg 31 + 35 + 26 = 92 (68%)
Eddie 7 + 10 + 14 = 31 (23%)
Shaun 33 + 35 + 35 = 103 (76%)
This time it was a meal in the Stables restaurant and no snooze as the presentation was at 6.30pm at the Market Place Theatre in Armagh. Manuel and Jose kindly offered us a lift to the event and there was just time for a parting photo before the fun began
One of the best parts of touring is not knowing what you'll experience and who you'll meet. A highlight for the Bananas was the friendship they established with Manuel and Jose. This photo emphasises that bond!
The after shoot party was a scream. Some serious shooters could finally let their hair down and the atmosphere was superb. Teams and individuals were happy to take photos, offer safe journeys home and hope to meet again.
Shaun and Karl.
Team South Africa
Team Germany
The prizes were fantastic and on show for all to jealously admire. These are for the Spring. Ladies, Junior and Veteran.
And the main event, the silver one not the pink!
Congratulation to Ian Taylor seen here with Pete O'Hagen, the event organiser, and the Mayor of Armagh.
Congratulation to the Midlands' own Andy Gillot 3rd overall!
And well done to Paula Schofield - Ladies World Champion!
A big Banana well done to Paul Cray for a gallant defence that saw him finish on 125 and 15th overall. Paul was very approachable and a welcome addition to the Bananas should he ever move to the Midlands!
A big Banana well done to Paul Cray for a gallant defence that saw him finish on 125 and 15th overall. Paul was very approachable and a welcome addition to the Bananas should he ever move to the Midlands!
A great night finished not surprisingly in a Chinese restaurant where we met a party celebrating Craig McDonald's success. Well done Craig!
Monday 25th AugustWith no shoot pending we managed to lie in until 7am. When the tent front was opened the view was of an empty field, only yellow rectangles on the green pitch offered evidence of the fun that had occurred. We set off for Belfast and the ferry to Stranraer. The crossing took just two hours, unfortunately passengers were not allowed on deck so views of the sea were limited from this caged balcony.
However, we got some excellent views of gannets. That's the picture below not above!
And we saw the spectacular Ailsa Craig
And we saw the spectacular Ailsa Craig The M6 under rain and with plenty of traffic followed. Our journey ended at 9.30pm with 800 miles on the clock, three tired bodies thoroughly satisfied!
What a fantastic adventure. We have enjoyed our shooting and socialising, made lots of friends and learned so much about FT shooting. Many thanks to the NIFTA team and particularly to Pete O'Hagen for his organisation on the shoot days and Greg Ferson for organising free camping. The GP season has been great and these few days have been a fitting climax. South Africa is a long way but we hope that future World Championships will see a Banana entry. Well done to all who competed, helped and to those who were just so friendly. We went to Northern Ireland with pre-conceived ideas influenced by media coverage of the troubles but left in awe of a beautiful country with such friendly people.
375 comments:
«Oldest ‹Older 201 – 375 of 375Hi Greg, sorry to hear about the gun.
Sorry for messing up our day, although looking at the weather, we didn't miss too much.
Hope you get Trudy sorted out tomorrow.
It is annoying when the car gets damaged
Its the 1 second to do it, and the weeks/months to get it sorted out that is so frustrating.
Luckily there was no-one else involved, so no need to involve the insurance vultures.
Sorry to hear about the shooting. Gun or you?
Have you seen the results from the masters. 3 way shoot off and all AA EV2.. On the forum
might have been 4 way, if i could have kept it on the black stuff
Thought there were plenty of that round Birmingham..
So how did the 1 minute training go?
Not to bad Phil I was getting 2 shots away in around 35 secs off the bag. The 2 kneelers around 45 secs, which I missed both doh, and 1 stander.... must practise disciplins
You didn't mess my day up mucker, if I'd gone to Newbury & shot like I shot today, I promise you I would have been far more upset.
Jonta, that vapour coming out of the muzzle. If it is grease/oil do you think that might push the power up & make me miss high?
Mine was doing the same Greg, It may be mixture of lube and the moisture in the air being vapourised via the compressed air. I only noticed on yours as I was looking down.
Sorry to hear of your spoiled day Phil. At least no other vehicles or people were involved to complicate matters, but its always such a pain and inconvenience to get the repairs sorted out. Will you be able to get to R/W tomorrow for a bit of therapy?
Yes, come to the Wedge Phil! You, me & Arby can have our own Showdown, one minute rule & everything!
Steady on Greg, it takes me a minute to find the target
Task for tomorrow;
1/Chrono.
2/Check windage.
3/Check clicks on all ranges.
4/Slaughter Course.
The Master today looks like it finished on a nail biter!
Scanning down the field I noticed one of the blokes thatgave me headachs during the GPs right at the bottom, an awful lot of people on 26.
Our own LeeEV2 on 30, looks like it was a tough Course!
Hi Gents, sorry to hear about your bump Phil,glad your OK.
Boys good luck for tomorrrow.
Pilsbury, I've got you a Pin Badge.
Are you recovering from the Black Lung or do we have to rig a face mask up to your fill cylinder?
Cheers Greg,still got the lergy but feeling much better than I was thanks
Good to hear from you Paul and glad you're feeling better.
Cheers Arby,
How are things with you?
O.K.Paul, except that this shootin' lark's getting me hooked - much to my increasing frustration.
I know,I just don't get the time to shoot anymore
Hi bloggers I'm back from Newbury.
My fears about parking were not founded, the Newbury ground stood up well in the rain.
I was drawn against Chris Hill, AA shooter from Tawd Vale. I started badly dropping a 30 yarder on lane 1, then I recovered and dropped only 1 more. I was pleased with my score of 18 ex 20 but it wasn't enough to beat Chris' score of 19.
Daz had drawn Sam Monkman, the reigning champ and went down 19-15.
John tied 17-17 with John Chopping and won a standing lane shoot-off.
So John went into the Showdown and me and Daz into the plate. John's opponent was James Grifiths, a close kneeler was John's undoing as he went down 18-17. In the plate Daz competed with Chris Jones; at the Worlds he scored 40, 40, 40. Daz improved his score to 16 but Chris hit 19. It seems 19 is the score to get at the Showdown!
I played against Barry Smith who beat me 17-16.
It was a great experience and one I hope next year to repeat.
As I left it was the third round of the Showdown, Lee H was doing ok.
Well done Mr Chairman, sounds like it could have been quite tense, how did the Ev stand up to competition?
The EV is back!
How was the Wedge?
Message to Greg and Phil from Tony Cook
e-mail him or phone him there are entries available for the Euros!
No E-mail Shaun but I'll give him a ring, number on the BFTA site I take it?
The Wedge today.
I went on the plinkers for 3 parts of an hour. took the windage back left 6 or 7 clicks(I don't really know if that was the right thing to do but it knocked 'em over alright). Couldn't detect differences in clicks for any range. Shot the Course with Arby, he beat me by 1 the bugger! 17-16.
I Chrono'd her 788fps 3 times with a 786 for good measure so about 793fps allowing for that 6fps short fall Gary detected.
Then as I took the rifle off Arby who'd been holding it for me I took the weight by the cheek piece & it came off in my hand, I caught her as she slipped but I think the butt hit! Just then one of the Club members came up to us to say it was packing up time. I had just enough time to knock a 35 yarder over standing to test if everything was OK!
No BFTA site, it is all Masters Results, Home link doesn't work & Harriers has an E-mail address but no phone number.
Tony's computer is down but he expects it back tomorrow. I shall search for his number for you.
Cheers mate.
Results are up on the BFTA site.
Who's Stephen Clark? He apparently won it! Shrugs Shoulders
Nice EV2 on the BBS £520 Posted.
Phil, get the txt?
Evening Phil are you interested in the Euros?
Nice EV2 on the BBS £520 Posted.
Isn't it in a MKII stock?
Greg did your cheekpiece seperate from the stock?
Sounds like a good day today Shaun, with plenty of close competition.
Greg, I hope the gun hasn't been affected by the drop. On a positive note, I don't think the impact was too great and at least it hit the ground butt first with the pad absorbing the impact of a glancing blow. I think it was caught before any other part of the gun came into contact with the ground. Had it been an S4*0 it would possibly have been worse.
Incidentally, and not wishing to be pedantic, our scores were 27 & 26, which being ex 30 sounds better.
I think when Jonta tried to lift it a bit it ran out of length, it was holding right on the end. It came off as I took it out of the bag to go on the plinkers. I though "Eye Eye, I'll have to watch that." Put it back on slightly deeper but either it wasn't or I hadn't tightened it sufficiently.
It totally came off the butt. It's back on but I'll need longer rods to raise the cheek piece.
As luck would have it, while it haven't, a bloke I'd made the aquantance of while giving a bit of advise turned out to be an Engineer & has said he'll be up at Millride next Saturday with a Vernia & he'll look into new cheek piece rods & Hamster dowels so all might turn out OK!
Of Course Arby, I had to put up a couple to knock them down then re-set them again so I reckon that's another 3 points at least, making me the winner, HURRARH!!!!
Hello.
Just got the text. Sorry Greg, can't do the Euros, busted car to pay for I'm afraid.
I think it may be a Mk1 or mk2 stock. I believe the original EV2 MK1's had the silver finish, but the laminate was introduced as a free replacement option to the people who had the early stocks that split.
The later Mk1's had the laminate or silver, and I think most people chose the laminate.
You can't do that to me Greg, I've just been on to the local press to tell them how I overcame all the odds to snatch a close victory from the bloke who came 95th in the world. I'm expecting an MBE at least.
96th in the World. 95th next year!
You beat me yesterday as well, your just being greedy now!
We'll leave it up to Castle to decide, scores out of 80.
What do you think to that £520 tack driver Arby, look good?
No excuses before the big event next weekend Gregory.
Do you want me to e-mail Tony and enter your name for the Euros?
Yes please. BFTA# 21180. Mucho Gusto!
What's 5/8 of an inch as mm?
Call me a sentimental old fool (or just an old fool if you like) but I feel as though I owe the S400 the chance to see what it could achieve. I can't believe I'm saying that about a piece of metal and wood - I'll be giving the gun a name next!!!
old fool
0.625
5/8"= 15.875mm
I wondered who'd be first and Phil you didn't disappoint. You won't be wanting a lift anywhere then. (ha ha)
So John went into the Showdown and me and Daz into the plate. John's opponent was James Grifiths, a close kneeler was John's undoing as he went down 18-17.
Them bloody disciplines.. missed two kneelers and two standers in total 50% ......... What do you think I need to do this weekend.. got to get it sorted for the euro`s... Come on Greg you have got to do Euro`s
EV2 now "on hold" yet no posts of interest at all!
Rules state first one to say "I'll have it" wins, yet so many times, deals seem to be done by PM or phone calls, or "gun on hold for a mate to have a look at first".
Grrrr.
It's not easy being stupid you know.
But you make it look so easy.
e-mail sent to Tony, let's wait and see.
All targets between 15 - 45 yards next week for discipline practise!!!!
That's the nicest thing you've ever said to me Phil. I'm all emotional now.
Seriously though, when will the car be fixed?
All targets between 15 - 45 yards next week for discipline practise!!!!
Is someone taking the urine....
Have spoken this afternoon to some of the big names ie Phil`s buddy JO, but he only told me what I was already doing.. Rob as told me to try something that I had not thought about which hopefully will a little difference....
No John I was serious.
We all need to work on kneelers and standers. If we are identifying weaknesses we need to address them. Equally I would like a course that had all targets 45-55 yards.
Seriously though, when will the car be fixed?
It's fine now, I've put the bits back on and painted over the scratches with one of those touch up brushes.
It's booked in for the 22nd Sept to have the scratches rubbed down and resprayed, and the broken trim replaced.
I need to get a couple of under bonnet trim bits from Ford to finish the job off.
It's going to cost around £300 in all, so no shooting extravagancies for a while.
Mr C I was taking the Urine, I totally agree with you. Me and the Bandit had the same discussion on the way back as he suffered on the disciplines as well. When I shot a showdown 8 years ago the average score was around 15/16. Now its 18/19
Hopefully I'm in the Euros as soon as Tony C gets the Chairman's mail.
The reason as asked about the size conversion is that I've been in communication via PM with an American FT'er & he was describing a typical Course. KZ of 5/8ths of an inch out to 35 yards & a 1/4 inch at 13 yards.
He suggested setting a Course up to a set range pattern & his Club & ours having a kind of 'Postal' Comp.
Not entirely fair I know as the Terrain & conditions can't be duplicated but still an interesting proposal.
Anybody taking piccies today, I've got an empty folder entitled, 2008 Showdown to be filled?
Good Night then.
Evening Bloggers. Have we all had good Mondays so far?
Righto, off to the sweaty place now. Blog you at about nueve y media.
G'Evening One & All,
Has anyone been reading the thread on BBS "Scientific testing for wind drift" originated by Venator? Mind blowing or what? Anybody thinking of contributing?
Phil - Bad news about you cutting down on "shooting extravagances" (Is there such a thing?) Does that mean you don't fancy that Portcullis thingy at Castle this w/e?
Evening all!
Greg I have in my possession an entry form for the EUROS, please give me a ring when you return from the house of sweat.
Hi Folks,
Phil, glad to hear you are ok, and I know what you mean about the 5 sec crash then months of pain getting it all sorted.
Greg, How is Trudie all well I hope?, Shaun nice to have the Ev2 back?, they must be good they have won everything this year so far?.
Quick question chaps would I be able to purchase a pin badge (not been a member)as would like one please. Are you gents shooting Castle this Sunday? good warm up for Euros.
ATB Steve.
Hi Steve, yes the whole Banana crew will be out in force for the Castle 80. We shot it last year it was excellent and me and Ed won some cash.
I'll bring you a pin badge on Sunday but, shoosh, there not that good.
Mr C what time will you been down Millride saturday and how long for. I need to give you that scope to take to castle sunday for me.
I'll bring you a pin badge on Sunday but, shoosh, there not that good.
Understatement or what..
Shaun,
Looking forward to Sunday, how is it shot? two sessions or just one big course?. Thanks for pin sort you out Sunday.
Greg I Shot with Steve Clarke at gp2 nice bloke (think i beat him too), he did say he had problem with scope though (bit suss to me) lol.
Not shot for 3 weeks now and gun has had new stuff put on not even tried out yet (fingers crossed)
.
ATB Steve
I have returned, slick & gleaming from the place of torture & I find myself renewed & re-invigorated!
Hi Steve, I don't know mate, do you think you DESERVE a Millride badge? That's the question that you need to think about!
Oh, go on then!
As for Trudy, the truth will be in the shooting. I'm sure some new disaster will be around the next corner for both her & me.
BTW, Looks like I'm going to be at the Euro's after all. The Chairman has ridden to the rescue & I've requested that he tick the Yes to Camping Box, so it will be 'Songs around the campfire till dawn'.
Yes to Castle as well. I have to win the CB Shield again as I broke it so I can't really let anyone else take it from me!
Jonta,
Not shooting Castle then? what about the bandit?.
Steve.
Gents,
How many camping then?, Not sure if Lee is going to stay now? so if you guys are camping I might change my plans again.
Steve.
Hi Steve, no castle for me or Bandit... mainly due to the Euro`s...
Jonta,
Keep em sweet! see you at Euros.
Steve.
Steve sorry you're gone but ...
The Castle 80 is two 40 shot courses one in the am one in the pm. It's a shotgun start at 9.15 I believe so be there early.
Jonta I will be paying a fleeting visit between (approx) 1pm and 3pm.
Ok Mr C...
Arby, I've just read to the bottom of that Threads first page & my brain now really hurts!
Wind Doping is a Black Art, not a Science. Me must all sacrifice to the Wind Gods like Messrs Osborne & Taylor do!
A virgin is best!
Virgins can be fun but there is nothing like experience!
But anyway, about sacrificing......
You might enjoy this one. My daughter started her post graduate course at Norwich Uni today. One of the blokes on the course has, since birth, had only one and a half arms. Apparently at his interview he was asked if he was left or right handed!
Trust in our education system!
Quite apart from the obvious ridiculousness of the question, why would they need to know anyway? Secret Leftism?
Sometime last week there was a thread on one of the forums regarding zero shift on an S4*0. Someone said the cylinder should sit on 2 foam pads attached to the stock so that any natural movement of the stock was not transferred to the metalwork. As my gun didn't have these pads I mentioned it at the gun shop where TBE's gun was). When I mentioned it to the main man he went blue in the face and cursed all the people who made these statements without knowing what they were talking about. He then told me that the pads served no useful purpose and that they remove them when servicing this particular gun.
I discussed this at R/W yesterday with Clompy & Greg, who suggested I speak to Julian Bond.
I did this today and he couldn't believe what I'd been told by an RGD, and insisted that there should indeed be foam pads. At his suggestion I spoke to Bill Sanders of Air Arms in order to get some of these pads. He too was staggered.
Eye opener isnt it?
Greg, I don't know why he was asked this question. However he was also asked how, with his disability, he would cope with the PE element of the course. (Teaching young children). He apparently replied "in the same way that I've done PE throughout my own school career"
Interviewers can say the most stupid things in an effort to appear super intelligent.
The more people you talk to about Tony Wall the more stories you will hear, not all bad! But he does come out with some corkers, apparently Millride dust wrecks guns! You ask TBE.
As a bloke I like TW very much and have enjoyed many a non-airgun conversation with him.
By the way, Julian Bond is now supplying EV2's at £905
That bloke can out Air Arms, Air Arms!
I think I'm going to bale now fellas.
Hasta Luego Companeros
Greg, Shaun,
Are you camping at Euros? I have a pass but because Lee is not camping I was not going to bother but if you chaps are staying then I might? need to know asap as not even got tent,sleeping bag etc. Will need low down on whats required off you experts. eg How much beer,food etc.
ATB Steve.
Hi Steve, I'm afraid I'm not going but Greg is and he is keen to camp. Hopefully he will be on soon.
Shaun isn't shooting the Euro's mucker but I'm hoping to be on a late entry all being well & I've got the Chairman to tick the Yes to Camping box on the form so I can give the two days my full attention.
Bad news from the Diabetes front, just got back from my Diabetes Clinic, apparently I'm in 'Poor Control' & the Blood Pressure isn't what it should be so the Meds have been tweaked, there is a new pill & I've been given a flea in the ear concerning my weight & record keeping & I'm called back in a month for 'Further Assessment'. She even tried to put me on Cholesterol tablets, I've haven't got a cholesterol problem!
If that woman could get me on birth control pills she would!
naughty boy no more ...
guinness, beer, lager, curry, bacon butties, chinese food, burgers ...
My diet of Guinness, Magners, Fish & Chips, Tinned Spagbol, Onion Rings & biscuits in NI made me loose weight!
I'm thinking of adopting it permanently then marketing it when I get down to 13 st & making my first Million!
Have you looked at the, Equipment used at the Worlds, file 0007ev has put up?
Pellets used, JSB's = 90!
And the Scopes, 39 Nikkos & 44 Leups. Everything else in single figures!
Only one Rhino!
I wonder who that could be, Mmmmm!
I'm supprised there weren't more S400's & Ev's. If you lump the Lg100 & 110 together it was a Steyr Show!
Hi Shaun, I've got your switch do you want it before Saturday?
Hiya Pilsbury, all revved up for Sunday?
Saturday will be fine oh Paulo.
Does that mean a 2-day shoot? Practise for the biggest prize of them all?
I will try to shoot both days but Saturday will probably be a quick visit
Evening all.
Looks like Baltipal will be transferring jobs in the very near future, slightly different shifts so we'll wait & see how that will effect my Shooting life!
hey greg,
whats the story? same company?
Whats the new role?
My Company is split up into lots of smaller facets based fairly closely together but doing slightly different jobs.
The place I'll be moving to is still a Warehouse & is only a bit further down the Warwick Rd but it deals in the Bonded new gear rather than the Refurb cr8p that my current place mis-handles!
The working environment looks much better, a longer lunch break & a set 10-6 shift but as it's a smaller Team there may be occasional Saturday over time that I might not be able to avoid.
Lo que Sera!
Evenin'
Go to BBS - Non Airgun Related.
Open "Lets see your better halfs"
Second thread down, by Glow - click on link.
Put on your eye protectors.
Enlarge to 200%
Comment when your eyes stop watering
Did you say you'll be dealing in new bondage gear?
STREWTH! Someone had to follow her round with a couple of warm spoons I bet!
The old Priest at my Church wouldn't have let her in dressed like that.
Her prospective husband got a smirk no one can wipe off though!
Did you say you'll be dealing in new bondage gear?
No mate, I'm sorry. You'll just have to keep getting it off the internet like you usually do I'm afraid!
On the BBC page, they are forecasting that there will be a round yellow thing in the sky on Saturday.
Anyone have an idea what this means?
so what is it your place does?
Bonded new/refurb?
Round yellow thing????
I blame the Hadron Collider!
New Bonded tech gear, Xerox photocopiers, Flat Screen monitors, Office Printers....
Anything a Business needs high tech wise. This new place holds the new boxed stuff, my current place the wreaked used & abused stuff.
Righto, the gym has been ringing up for me as I didn't attend Friday so I'd better get down there pronto.
Blog you later!
Evening all!
This is shooting blog not a sexual fantasy blog.
In future please ensure any mention of scantily dressed women includes a comment about their favourite position. They say prone is easiest, kneeling - some enjoy but it can be tricky, standing now that's hard. Practise does make perfect though.
Perhaps a harness is in order?
isn't football great!
Sounds like a good performance. Just read on BBS that Setanta are showing the highlights of the Scotland game followed by the England game, free of charge, from 10:45 tonight.
Tempting but will the Scots cause us to nod off!
Evening Bloggers.
The drama continues with my job transfer.
My current Boss has said today that," He is waiting for a phone call off Keith", my prospective Boss, " To see if this position exists!"
As I was there last night talking to his 2nd in Command & was offered the job, I find that rather strange!
He was a bit taken aback when I said this & said in an annoyed fashion that Daz, Keith's 2ic should be talking to him not me!
Ahh, the struggles amongst the high echelons of Power!
doesn't sound good Greg.
Your entry to the Euros is posted.
Cost £25 entry and £75 admin cost, so if my maths are correct that's £215 please.
Blimey, prices are going up.
Hey everybody, Andy Gillott has just Pm'd me to invite me to shoot with him on Sunday for a bit of Coaching. I think the CB Cup is mine!
Cheers Mr C...... I think!
No, it's just Mark Aldington trying to exert a bit of power. For some reason he has a thing about telling you some things but NOT everything about any situation. If he can keep me dangling in the dark he will. Why he didn't realise I'd find an alternative source of info says more about his opinion of my intelligence & his lack of imagination!
The fact is the staffing arrangements at Cole Valley are a matter for the Company Directors not him!
What shall we do after the 80?
Couple of beers and some Asian cuisine?
Sounds like a plan to me, what kind of Asian, Emerald Asian or Baltihouse Asian?
What are the arrangements for Sunday anyway, am I driving, what time are we meeting up?
Who won the Showdown Plate last year, the question is being asked on the AGF?
If someone would drive me I'd be eternally greatful. Lets hope Pilsbury and TBE come online.
It kicks off at 9.15am, I'm keen to get there about 8.30 so hopefully we could park on the hard ground.
James O
I knew that you'd have that info amongst your detailed files Mr Chairman.
I don't mind driving but the Flying Plum is going in for a bit of TLC this Saturday(may make the Club shoot sketchy!) so I'm promising nothing till I have her back!
How's the Spanish coming along then? I have a disc coming to me from a bloke at work. He's a DJ & when ever he pulls a foreign bird he makes an attempt at learning some of the Lingo so he has several alternatives should I decide to change the focus of my studies!
I am making very slow progress. When you get the new computer try out the BBC site.
Coincidentally, I have been contacted by Jesus(I love saying that!)
He is talking about the NEFTA Classic again, namely finding it & the dates it happens on.
I seem to remember Brotherton being the closest place to it but does it always occur on the 3rd & 4th May?
He must be loaded because he is talking about getting a dedicated sub 12fpe gun rather than de-tuning his HW100(No AT over there!).
Would you recommend an EV2 given all you've gone through Mr C?
Not for single use, it's a big beast and you have to get used to it.
The NEFTA dates are 2nd and 3rd of May. It is always the weekend before the bank holiday.
Well how about this for a week.
Saturday I bash my car.
Monday I find out that a guy from work, who I only know in passing, but is good friends with a couple of my mates has committed suicide.
Tuesday a mate at work who I have know for 20 years tells us he has been diagnosed with stomach cancer and is being operated on next week.
Today I find out a lad who was an apprentice a few years younger than me, who has since left our company but we go drinking on a fairly regular basis and I regard him as a good friend, died last night from DVT on a business trip. He was 34 and leaves a wife and young daughter.
Beat that.
Sorry to hear about your week Phil. Puts things into context doesn't it. We've had a frustrating and stressful week with F-I-L being messed about by hospital.
Sorry to hear your news Phil. Cheer yourself up by shooting the Castle 80 on Sunday.
So Bananas what are we wearing on Sunday?
Personally, I like to see you in the black lacey outfit that you sometimes wear.
Evening Bloggers.
I've finally managed to remember my password to sign in!!!!
Hello. Is there any body out there.....
Me, I'm here Daz.
How ya going on mate?
I'm sound ta mate. You down the club tomorrow Greg
I don't know if you're still there mate but I have a problem tomorrow.
My Motor has to go into the Garage for some attention. I'll get it there early but if they haven't finished it by the afternoon I'll have to miss it.
It's a bugger as I need to check all is OK with Trudy as she got dropped last week!
OK lads, what did I miss today & what are the arrangements for tomorrow?
Hi Greg, very poor day at the Ride. My EV was shooting all over the place. I returned home to clean the barrel and re-zero. Doesn't bode well for the biggest event of the year.
Paul is getting to mine about 7-7.10am. Contact him for pick up time.
Grey polos please gentlemen
Coach and Horses to follow.
Roy and Phil J are hoping to attned, Ian and Mark will be there.
Do we know any scores Mr C?
Tomorrow's targets for the CB Shield
Eddie = 48
Greg = 36
Paul = 36
Shaun = 56
Greg make sure you bring the CB Shield tomorrow
Will do Shaun.
So what was going on with the EV then, just barrel cleaning time or something more insidious with MV, did you chrono at all?
Problems are left then right rather than up and down so I don't think it's MV. I was in a rush today so only know me =15, Paul = 17 and Jonta = 29.
I should think conditions were pretty good there, much wind?
Gents,
Have a good shoot at Castle Sunday. Not able to make it as been in hospital again and might be back in again on Sunday.
Greg do not think I will be camping at Euros as been in hospital most of the week has left me short on time to get things sorted, hope to still be able to shoot next week all been well.
Think you boys are in for a treat with the weather Sunday?.
Please can you supply some results for me to drool over if possible.
ATB Steve.
Swifty, what's the trouble Bud, I thought you were on the mend?
Evening bloggers, have a great day tomorrow.
I shot 260 today, Roy got 235 IIRC.
Tried free floating the barrel, by removing the barrel band and muzzle.
Spectacularly unimpressed, didn't seem to shoot 'dead' any more, felt like the barrel was vibrating after the shot. Put the barrel band and muzzle back on, tout de suite.
Tried some sized pellets by using Jonta's sizer.
Definitely dropped the mv as the pellets started dropping a good inch lower.
I don't think I'm good enough to tell the difference in accuracy to be honest.
Any recommendations for house insurance?
I'm sick of Lloyds constantly upping the price every year.
Greg,
Infection now in bowel causing (diverticulitis)poisoning me inside have to have antibiotics into vein and fluids through drip and painkilling injections, head is flying at min.lol.
Hope no surgery yet will know more later. Good luck for Sunday and see you soon.
Steve.
Hi Steve, we will raise a glass to you in the pub after the shoot. Hope to see you at FC, though I'm not too sure I like FC. But I do love Castle!
You're right Greg only a breath of wind, perfect condition.
Today, I invested in a future classic, a Millride FTC badge.
When you say future ... maybe 10,000 years when it is dug up!
Swifty, I'm very sorry to hear of your problems mate & I hope you feel stronger & fitter soon.
Phil, you are an inveterate tinkerer aren't you? I didn't know the EV had a Barrel Band! As for insurance, what about one of those Comparison sites?
Well, at least you lot got to shoot today(Except you Swifty I know) I spent my day trying to find tyres that weren't a rip off! Exciting !!!!
I can't see it lasting 10000 seconds myself.
"inveterate" - thanks, I think... I'll have to look it up.
I thought that was something with no spine?
I've found some decent prices, but I want to find a decent insurer, rather than finding out when it's too late. So I need a recommendation site. Only problem is that most reviews are by people venting their spleen on some account of crap service.
I'm with More-Than and pay £26.87 per month.
Hi all,
I think as I'm driving tomorrow I should only have to knock over 1 target to win a trophy!
Have you heard off TBE Shaun?
Evening All,
Just confirming that I'll be travelling in with Phil J tomorrow.It's a pity you are unable to make it Phil G, but there's always time to change your mind. By the way, did Greg really call you a veteran fiddler - I don't think you look anything like Yehudi Menhuin. (Hope I've spelled that correctly)
Hi Paul, TBE texted me I said be here at 7 and wear a grey polo shirt.
Rightio mucker see you in the morning.
I'm off to bed now need my beauty sleep.
Mind you I'd have to sleep for a very long time!!!
I'm back.
Phil, when are you planning your return to competitive air rifle shooting then, WL1?
Hello Arby, psyched & ready for battle?
me too!
Was Alan there today perchance?
Yes Greg, - Fully in the zone and ready to clear the course tomorrow.
I expect you Bananas to be on your best competetive behaviour tomorrow. Lots of gamesmanship,blood, gore, gouging and scratching etc.
My wife has refused to get up and cook me a full English before departure tomorrow. Don't you think that's a bit unreasonable?
It's, All quiet on the Banana front, I see.
Greg did you get my text informing you of your marshalling responsibility on Saturday?
Evening... Whats this then you had a shoot off sunday. It was only a month or two when you was wondering how long it would be before experiencing the pressure of a shoot off Greg
How do you know about the marshalling then Mr C. Thought this would be sorted on the day.
Yes mate. Did you get the piccies OK?
Hiya Jonta, I was tested......
And fell apart!!!!!!!
Yes Greg am constructing the blog as we blog.
Jonta the marshalling list is on the BFTA site. I know Greg is marshalling because he was a late entry and TC asked me to pass on the message.
Bobby returned your scope, Ian's got it, he thought it too "grabby" and will talk to you at the Euros
No problem Mr C. When Steve Mason put some of his magic grease in, he said it may need time to bed in then may need regreasing..
Criptic comment from Jonny Detail in responce to your post on AGF,
"Testing in more ways than one Shaun".
Hi all,swifty is on the mend lads! hopeful of euro's! unlucky with the shootoff Greg! it really had you following through! lol.
good experience though! wish they would post some scores up! cant wait for weekend!
Speak soon fellas!
Lee
He comes, he Posts, he buggers off!
Swifty on the mend is good news.
Right O lads, I'm baling out, blog you all tomoz.
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