It is hard to believe that the idea of publishing a first-ever digital shooting magazine in Pakistan is becoming a reality. All over the world, shooting as a sport is evolving at a rapid pace. In Pakistan, there is a need for a platform, designed to share knowledge, experiences and opinions of the shooting community. The 1st edition of Pak Shooting Magazine is primarily focused on hardcore shooting related articles as well as preservation of wildlife and habitat management/ restoration through focused efforts including responsible hunting. To make this happen, number of volunteer community-based and volunteer organizations are already playing a part, however, the need of the time is to create awareness especially among hunting community as well as other stakeholders to promote responsible practices.

Moreover, I am grateful to the shooters for their input/ contributions. I extend my special thanks to our dedicated editorial and graphics design team for making the 1st edition of this magazine possible. This idea could never had been accomplished alone, so I would like to thank the Patron in Chief and all of our contributors for their guidance and valuable suggestions. I am looking forward to a healthy and mutually beneficial participation of the shooting community in Pakistan to further refine upcoming issues of this magazine.

Shahid Raza

i ii C ntents Special Feature 1 Stalking Experience in Misgar (Northern Areas) An Unforgetable Experience The Spirit of MAJOSC 6 Step by Step Guide for Selecting your First Firearam 13 Introduction to F Class Shooting 21 2nd Muhammad Ali Jinnah Open Shooting Championship 25 Bringing the Wildlife Back from the Brink 31 Hunting Calibers Currently in Use in Pakistan 35 Fundamentals of Pistol Shooting 46 Habitat Conservation in Takatu Balochistan 52 Product Review (AK-12) 57 My 60 Years of Shikar Experience in Pakistan 63 Hunting Ethics and Regulations 70 Information given in the articles is the personal knowledge and views of the authors. Suggestions are welcome. iii

STALKING EXPERIENCE IN MISGAR (NORTHERN AREAS) AN UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURE

By Sultan (A passionate shooter who participates regularly in shooting competitions)

Shooters should have attributes of countrymen. This article narrates the mental mobility enabling quick decision lifetime experience of our four-member making as well as physical fitness and young stalking team (Sultan, Nadeem, firing proficiency. Outdoor culture, field Asif and Ali) who went for hunting trophy sports, adventure sports, shooting and (Ibex) in Northern Areas. stalking promote these qualities. These Misgar Valley, located at the not only keep a person physically fit but northern edge of Gilgit-Baltistan at an also embolden the spirit and provide altitude of 3,100 meters, is one of the plenty of self-confidence as well as perfect places for trekking and stalking. healthy entertainment. Legal and well- Stalking team commenced its regulated trophy hunting programs play expedition from Bahawalpur on 29 an important role in delivering benefits for both wildlife conservation and the welfare Misgar of local communities living in a particular area. In February 2020, it was a pleasant surprise to know that Muhammad Ali Jinnah Field Sports Club has offered a fully sponsored volunteer stalking trip for four volunteers. I along with three of my colleagues volunteered for this extra ordinary opportunity. Pakistan holds perfect areas for high-quality adventure sports from the mighty stretches of the Karakoram in the north to the vast alluvial February, 2020 and reached Gilgit on 2 delta of the Indus River in the south, which March 2020. After necessary coordination entices many adventurers and hunters to at Gilgit, the team moved to Hunza on 4 Pakistan. Ironically, these adventure Information given in the articles is the personal knowledge and views of the authors. heavens are seldom ventured by our Suggestions are welcome. 1 March and arrived at Misgar Valley on 5 hitting 1.5 inches lower than the point of March 2020. aim due to major difference in Misgar, owing to its scenic beauty temperature between Bahawalpur and and natural habitat, is an attractive valley Misgar. Once we were confident about full of breathtaking panoramas. A zeroing of our weapons, we embarked combination of arid, rugged, lofty upon ascending towards the area mountains surrounding a lush green selected for stalking. It was decided that valley presents an eye-catching contrast. Thunderbolt (SC-76) rifle in .308 An abundance of scattered fruit trees in Winchester along with M118 rounds, a the valley, once laden with flowers during spotting scope, binocular, Kestrel weather spring, adds further colour. Misgar is station and a camera will be taken along. located on ancient Silk Route which was The team moved as planned; cold the only passage to China before the weather and chilling breeze constantly

Zeroing at Misgar Valley opening of Karakoram Highway. People testing our resolve. After 4 hours of of the valley are very humble and famous endurance march, team had to take a for their hospitality. Misgar valley besides forced break for a night in a stone hut local livestock has a vast area where which was used by shepherds in wildlife is in abundance. Major wildlife summers and which appeared to be includes Ibex and Snow Leopards. nothing less than a blessing from the Before proceeding on the trek for extremely cold weather conditions. hunting, the team carried out zeroing of It was the morning of 7th March, when a their weapons on 5th March at Misgar. As herd of Ibex was spotted near our per firing practices and own experience, makeshift hut. Spotting the Ibexes so the bullets should have been hitting higher early in our quest was overwhelmingly than the point of aim due to change in tempting. However, due to their smaller altitude but on ground, the bullets were size, we decided not to go for them. After 2 trekking for another 5 hours, on 7 March After spending another night in chilled cold weather and dreaming about big heads, on 9th March at about 0430 hours, the team moved towards marked boulder and took their positions. Our hiding place, a rocky outcrop, that overlooked the bench below where ibexes were supposed to be grazing, seemed to Herd-I of Ibex be hours away. It was a laborious and 2020, our team reached another camping slippery climb. Upon reaching the site, a similar shepherd’s hut and decided destination, we realized our next to spend the night there. challenge, which was not considered The team spent the next whole day earlier. Sitting in a steady position for 7-8 (8th March) in identification of likely Ibex hours in -12⁰C (10.4⁰ F), exercising strict spots, spotted a decent animal and control even on breathing was a very prepared the stalking plan. We decided to difficult and irksome task.

Herd-I Trophy Class Ibex Ibex

Herd-II Boulder

Hut-2

Stalking Plan-1 Herd-II of Ibex move early in the morning, well before the The weather was extremely harsh dawn, to conceal our move from selected and the frosty breeze was whipping our Ibex. On reaching the intended spot, our faces repeatedly. The wind carried the team was to adopt all precautions and odour of alpine meadows, fueling the hide behind a pre-spotted boulder to wait resolve and rekindling the hunting instinct for the Ibexes to come in the shooting just when it was about to dim. Then came range. It was planned that I would take a the moment for which we had been shot assisted by Ali as a spotter, Nadeem patiently longing for. A herd of Ibex would take the camera and Asif would re- appeared. We felt a sudden adrenaline calculate firing solutions, if required. rush with a surge of emotions but remained calm as we had trained 3 ourselves for this moment. A little inched forward to reach a better position impatience or a miscalculated move could for shooting. I took a moment to admire result in losing this opportunity. The team the grace of this mountain monarch initially decided to take a shot from the through my scope while trying to calm my same location. However, the plan was excitement. While looking through the changed due to steepness of slope (a scope for a moment, I reflected on the Stalking Plan-2 Trophy Ibex through Camera

Dist - 264 meters Firer - Maj Sultan Temp - 24 F Data calculator - Capt Asif Angle - 34 Degree Cameraman - Capt Nadeem Humidity - 68 Spotter - Lt Ali Altitude - 12606 feet very high angle), range over 600 meters time spent at the range and lessons and high-speed wind. While observing the learned during 2nd Muhammad Ali Jinnah ethical stalking rules, we decided to creep Shooting Championship, remembering closer to the target. On reaching the aim, breath control and consistent closer spot, it was realized that the Ibexes squeeze. The report of my rifle echoed had gone on the reverse slope of the and filled the canyon. The Bighead was ridge. Nonetheless, we mustered the down in its tracks. I chambered another strength and followed the game. At about round and watched it through the scope, 1500 hours, 4 Ibexes including the biggest with a surge of adrenaline and emotion. head were spotted at a distance of 264 But it was down for good. We walked up meters. All team members took their to the fallen Ibex with inexpressible joy. positions, I prepared for the shot with We had done it and achieved what every meticulous calculation. Finally, the hunter dreams for; harvesting a moment of truth had come. I could listen magnificent 43’’ Ibex in the mightiest to my heart pounding at an intense rate mountain of the world. Our resolve and and even the chilling cold weather could consistency in chase, battling doubt as not stop the drops of sweat flowing down well as wit of an animal that lived in his my forehead into the eyes. Clearing my rugged home had enabled us to finally eyes with my hand, I heaved a long breath harvest a grand and proud trophy. to take control of myself and cautiously 4

Upon reaching the fallen big Head, different temperatures and managed to we were awestruck by the size and beauty apply them systematically, along with all of the animal which was overwhelming. skills learned in 2nd Muhammad Ali Jinnah Knelt beside the Ibex, hands-on its horn, Open Shooting Championship held at our team was falling short of words to Bahawalpur. Battling the chilling thank the Almighty Allah. The sense of temperature and a frigid breeze made our accomplishment at the end of every comradery stronger, enhanced our self- successful hunt is always coupled with the confidence and made us realize that compassion for a life lost. The prestigious human endurance has no limits, making

Sultan with the fallen Ibex us capable of doing anything anywhere. The team also learned the importance of physical fitness, endurance and survivability required for the hunters in severe weather conditions. A hunter undergoes challenges in physical as well as psychological terms which are an essential part of their grooming. Likewise, tracking, patience, range estimation, calculating firing solutions and choosing right moment for taking a shot were lessons that were moment was captured on camera. It was extremely useful for us. a one shot kill and the impact was exactly at the front quarter. This hunt symbolized 43 Inch Trophy Ibex all what the sport of chase stands for. Young stalkers have a lot to gain from this stalking experience. The angular calculation for uphill/downhill shooting, application of lead while engaging a walking target, control on nerves under stressful conditions and patience while stalking the trophy are the essential practices for a hunting adventure in mountains. The team practiced application of ballistic calculations in 5

By Ghazi Sakhawat Ali (An experienced

veteran shooter with significant knowledge

and contributions towards development of

shooting sport)

Shooting'. The concept behind this series of shooting championships encompasses a wide range of aspects related to

the shooting needs in our country. It is conceived as Shooters from all segments of society in ackground MAJOSC-1 in Quetta an all-encompassing and B The first championship ever flexible series of shooting of Muhammed Ali Jinnah Open Shooting competitions covering the skill enhancing Championship (MAJOSC) series was held needs of Law Enforcement Agencies as in August 2016 in Quetta and a follow-up at well as civilian shooters. a lesser scale was conducted in 2017 in

Lahore. The 2nd Muhammed Ali Jinnah efining the Spirit

Open Shooting Championship was D The very spirit of MAJOSC conducted in December 2019 at series revolves around promotion of Bahawalpur. The 3rd MAJOSC is also shooting in the country, providing planned at Bahawalpur and will be conducted in last quarter of 2020, depending upon the on-going pandemic situation. The thought process of holding such championships was conceived even before, in 2015. It was linked with the written work of Syed Muhammed Adnan

(Patron In Chief) on 'Long Range Precision Shooters of MAJOSC-2 posing at the firing point of one of the match

6 opportunities to all specialized and segments of society. It common rifles, covers enhancing the pistols, shotguns shooting skills of the and air rifles. The Forces and civilian ranges vary from shooters, through a broad short to ELR/ ULR spectrum of purpose built depending upon the matches, meeting the weapon. Briefing on the conduct of Tactical Rifle Match sporting and tactical Explore the needs. Some of the cardinal features are limits of human shooting skills and

listed below:- extreme capability of weapons held by the Forces to benefit them. Institute a comprehensive Shooting Develop the skill and culture of finding a Tournament in the country, introducing science based firing solution to take a variety of matches for a variety of successful shot at the targets emerging common and specialized weapons, at any distance within the weapon's from different ranges, for all categories range. Train the nucleus training staff of of shooters. This is to allow shooters to uniformed personnel for this purpose. pick matches of their choice depending Keep a flexible approach to incorporate upon available weapon and skill area. changes to improve the match Include comparatively low cost and conditions basing on the experience affordable matches to encourage broad and emerging needs. based participation with air rifles, small Develop infrastructure/ ranges in order bore rifles and commonly held Centre to maintain and expand the spirit of fire rifles/ pistols without MAJOSC. necessitating investment on fresh weapon purchases.

Categorization of matches based on the weight class of weapon to increase the competitiveness in the sport, not permitting undue advantage of equipment superiority.

Cover weapon and range wise shooting Waiting for Turn - Awami Rifle Match (Proud Balochis in MAJOSC-2) spectrum by introducing matches for

7

Create awareness about the conservation of wildlife and provide alternate opportunities to develop a culture of shooting at clay birds and paper targets as a family sport, through dedicated matches and casual fun Shooters’ rest and refreshment area at the range shooting.

Patronize and promote shooting sport ormulation of Matches to subsidize the shooting expenses by F Although MAJOSC has popular means of awarding attractive international matches on its program, still a honorarium. large number of matches have been Support Long Range shooting by introduced as per training requirement of comprehensive and authentic written the Forces and shooting needs of our material in the form of articles/ books. country. The nature and practices of the

Support all efforts through a dedicated matches are of key importance to meet the media campaign for better public very aim of the championship. The main awareness and promotion of the cause. categories of MAJOSC matches are briefly given below:- ealizing the Spirit A full capacity relay. Competition has a full camera coverage at target and firing points R Fulfilling the spirit of MAJOSC needed a colossal physical, mental and financial effort, which started in 2016 and continues. It is aimed at promotion of training cum sport oriented shooting, benefitting all segments of shooting fraternity and the uniformed personnel. The Tactical Matches. These are mainly T main aspects which have an instrumental Class matches to explore the extreme role in implementing the spirit are as capability of weapons held by Forces follows:- and to test the extreme skill level of the Formulation of matches. shooters. The main matches are:- Development of infrastructure. Ultra Long Range 2500 meters - Subsidizing the shooting. Aimed at taking the 50 caliber and

8

similar rifles to the Ultra Long Range Rifle G3 Marksmanship 400/ 600. Shooting. To increase the effective range of Hard Target Interdiction 1200/ Rifle G3 from 300 meters to 600 Unknown Distance. This match meters thus bridging the gap demands calculation of a firing between assault rifle and the light solution. sniper rifle. Hard Target Interdiction 1500 F Class Matches. These matches are meters. included to provide platform to the elite shooters on international matches as per international rules. MAJOSC has, for first time, introduced the 'Single Detail Finals' with only two sighters for the finalists. These matches include following:- 600 F TR. 800 F TR/ F Open. 1000 F Open. Small Bore F Class. These are the cost effective matches in F Class Tgt of Mr. Omar Farooq who secured 1st Position in HTI Match - 1500 meters in MAJOSC-2 Format providing same challenge of precision and wind judgement but at Extreme Long Range 1200 an affordable price. meters. Extreme Long Range 1500 meters. To test extreme long range precision of the civilian rifles and calibers. Tactical Rifle 600/ Unknown A young Shooter in FTR 800 meters Distance. To develop sniper skills to Bench Rest Matches. These are cost achieve first shot kill at unknown effective matches with Air Rifles and .22 distances as per firing solution. rifles at 50 meter, 100 meter and 300 Advance Tactical Rifle/ Night Fire. meter for centre fire rifles. Bench rest To develop the night sniping matches also provide an equal capability and engage moving opportunity to novices and casual targets.

9 shooters to compete against good Metallic Silhouette Shooting. This professional shooters with fair chance is a very tough international of winning. These are also the most discipline. Being shot from 200 to suitable and popular matches for ladies 500 meters from standing position, it and youth. These are also meant to poses substantial challenge. spot and improve the skill and talent. Spectators enjoy because of instant Awami Matches. These matches are feedback of dropping silhouettes. formulated to provide cost effective Long Range Pistol. It is a unique shooting opportunities to commonly long range pistol sport, involving held rifles with iron sights and ordinary precision. carry pistols. These popular matches Sporting Clays. This match include following:- Sporting Clays in MAJOSC-1 (Quetta) provides Awami Rifle 300 meters. an endless Awami Pistol 25 meters. variety of .22 Iron Sights 50 meters. field game shots from different angles at various distances. Skeet. It is an Olympic discipline demanding high level of skill and

Awami Rifle Match – MAJOSC-2 regular practice.

Fun and Sport / Olympics. These are Trap. Trap shooting in its various miscellaneous matches of all three forms is a noble shotgun sport for all weapons i.e. rifle, pistol and shotgun. age groups. Some of these matches provide game evelopment of Infrastructure: The shooting equivalents on paper and clay D spectrum of MAJOSC matches as targets whereas other matches have discussed above is broad and the inherent long range Pistol thrill and the ranges involved are enormous. These Olympic shooting prestige. These matches can only be conducted on matches are:- dedicated range infrastructure. Judging Stalking Rifle. It is trophy hunt on this requirement, a dedicated effort has paper target with light stalking rifle. been launched and some state of the art range facilities have been developed in

10

Southern Punjab at Bahawalpur. This desired practice. MAJOSC series has includes:- adopted an honorable mechanism. It is the Extreme Long Range. This is a huge award of a decent amount of honorarium to shooting complex starting from 100 position holders in each match. The meters to 1500 meters. This facility honorarium is awarded to first five positions provides an excellent platform to holders on a sliding scale. This practice develop and enhance the extreme long helps some of the shooters to meet the range shooting skills. shooting expenses. Extreme Long Range – Panoramic View uture Prospects: Muhammad Ali F Jinnah Shooting Championship is a very popular and major shooting championship in the country. It has got a broad spectrum and maximum number of matches. More than eleven hundred entries participated in the 2nd MAJOSC 2019. This is the largest ever participation The Gun Club DHA Bahawalpur. This in a shooting championship in Pakistan. is another very useful facility developed Interaction of Russian and Pakistani Shooters at Bahawalpur. Skeet, Trap (ABT) and in MAJOSC-2 Sporting Clays are functional while 10 meter, 25 meter and 50 meter ranges will be completed in phase-2 which is in progress.

Moreover, participation of a Russian T class shooter was probably the first participation of international category. If it continues to be held on regular basis, it is DHA Bahawalpur Shooting Club going to be one of the most popular ubsidizing the Shooting Sport: Shooting shooting event in the country with an is a very expensive sport. Patronizing the expectedly good representation of S shooting sport and supporting the shooters international shooters. financially, if possible, remains a much

11 (MAJOSC-3)

xciting new E atches added M in the last list

Saad Rehman Lodhi accomplished shooter and a responsible Technology Enthusiast/ Firearms firearm owner. Handling a firearm Hobbyist, Nature lover. A decade plus of correctly is a skill and like all skills, it only experience in firearms and shooting related activities. He holds a solid track comes with correct attitude, training, record in various shooting disciplines and discipline and repeated practice. Here are conservation of wildlife/ habitat. a few basic steps that you should take into urchasing a firearm, especially when account before purchase of your first its your first buy, is an extremely P firearm. These steps will also be helpful for important decision. It will either nurture

buying any subsequent firearms. your passion limit, or destroy it. efine your need. First, define Unfortunately, most people in local gun Dyour purpose and need for owning community make this decision either on the firearm. Ask yourself whether you need hearsay or based on advice from it for hunting, self-defence, sports or inexperienced or self-proclaimed experts. competition shooting. Narrowing down Hence, a series of wrong decisions and incorrect practices is created and propagated. Owning a firearm, unsupervised firing (especially aerial firing) and even range sessions without proper coaching will not enable you to become an

1313 your requirement will lead to the selection egality of right type of firearm for your purpose. L A precursor to buying any firearm, is Firearms come in all shapes, types and that you should be legally allowed to sizes. However, they can be broadly purchase and own the intended firearm. categorized into hand guns and long Based on law of the land, there are places guns. Hand guns include pistols and that apply stringent checks before and after revolvers, whereas long guns include owing a firearm. On the other hand, there various rifles like hunting, assault/ sniper are places where you can buy a weapon rifles and shotguns. Each category of like you buy vegetables and carry it like you firearms has its own niche, community and carry a mobile phone. applications. Sniper and assault rifles are Anyway, you must ensure that all legal for advanced users who already know their game. For an amateur/ hobbyist, one might consider light rifle or a shotgun for hunting or self-defense. However, if you do not already have a well-considered specific application for your firearm, hand gun is aspects are catered for and you have a the first firearm you should consider. It is legitimate basis to purchase and own a the firearm of choice for a new hobbyist or firearm, as per existing rules. for self/ home defense. Owing to its istol or Revolver . Revolvers offer compact size, it is easy to carry and Pinherent advantage over pistols, conceal. Hand gun is considered as the owing to their simpler operating most versatile weapon globally, for this mechanism. They operate on a simple very reason it is weapon of choice as a first revolving drum magazine and there is no buy. requirement of ejection system for fired

14

cartridges. However, pistols outweigh of keeping the gun pointed towards the

revolvers by offering more ammo capacity target while changing magazine, the

(typically upto three times more) revolvers do not offer this flexibility. The

compounded with the flexibility of debate can go on, but as a first firearm, the

replaceable magazines. recommended firearm is pistol as it offers

larger magazine capacity, gives more

freedom of attaching accessories and

offers more safety options.

udget Distribution. In Pakistan, B the weapons are grossly overpriced for various reasons. A six hundred Dollars

(one lac Rupees) worth of Glock - 17 is sold

for over four lac Rupees here. Often people

Revolvers usually come with six rounds are reluctant to spend additional amount on

capacity and their advocates say that if one accessories and training, after spending

cannot do the job in six rounds, he might heavily on weapon itself.

not be able to do it at all. However, in

reality, more ammo capacity is a very

desirable feature. You can never predict

under what circumstances you would need

to use your firearm. That’s why

experienced shooters usually tend to opt

for larger ammo capacities. Also, modern

pistols are almost as reliable as revolvers.

Pistols also provide the added advantage

14 15

testing techniques to ensure standardized

quality, hence there is no reliability. For

instance, if a particular weapon has fired

quite a few rounds without jamming and

with fairly good accuracy, it does not mean

that another firearm with same markings

would produce the same results. Reputable It is better to buy a basic handgun while brands manufacture firearms with standard spending suitably on quality training, and proper machining and metallurgy and rather than opting for an expensive run it through proper testing regimes. As a weapon and using it without proper result, their failure rate is very low, typically training. A generic, budget distribution for measured in PPM (parts per millions). In firearm purchase consists of licensing cost, contrast, in cost of safety gear (ear/ eyes protection) local and a quality holster. Additional cost include training expenditure and ammo cost.

uality. There is a lot of debate in Qlocal gun market when it comes to choosing between a local or an international manufacturer. Some of the local made guns may perform satisfactorily in some conditions and with a specific ammo brand. Unfortunately, the fact of the

matter remains that no local manufacturer

uses standardized manufacturing and

16

guns manufacturing community, aliber. Caliber is the most manufacturer’s oftenly made parts by hand Cdistinguishing feature of a firearm; it over crude and error prone machinery. is actually the interior diameter of the

There is also no quality attestation authority barrel. Ammo for same caliber firearm is

like government controlled proof house. generally inter changeable. Caliber is also

There is also no quality attestation authority a highly debated topic for purchasing a

like government controlled proof house. So firearm. For handguns in local market there

the parameters of quality are highly is a lot of debate between 9mm Lugar (AKA

questionable. Local manufacturer 9x19 mm Parabellum) and 30 Bore

community grade part replacement (7.62x25 mm Tokarev). Whereas in USA

warranty as quality, which is essentially the hottest debate is between 9 mm and 45

incorrect. It is not wise to attempt saving life ACP (AKA 45 Auto i.e. 11.43x23 mm).

(God forbid, if the time comes) on 45 ACP is considered to have better

something that works on fluke. For stopping power i.e more kinetic energy to

selecting your first firearm (or any put down the threat. However, owing to

subsequent one) a quality manufacturer is bigger cartridge size, the number of rounds

highly recommended, which is currently not carried by a 45 Auto is roughly half as

offered by any local gun manufacturer. compared to a typical 9 mm. Though, you

However, Pakistan Ordnance Factories get better stopping power but the downside

(POF) does offer some quality weapons is lower magazine capacity. Surprisingly,

with good standards. These firearms are 30 bore offers even more stopping power

available for law enforcement agencies and than a 45 Auto and almost same magazine

also for licensed civilian buyers. capacity as in 9 mm. Unfortunately, no

good manufacturer makes a reliable and

robust 30 bore pistol, which knocks this

16 17

beautiful caliber out of the competition. enforcement and also in few cases of self-

Additionally, for hand guns, the threat is defence weapons. In those cases a person

neutralized by correct shot placement will be required to react immediately and

and not by sheer stopping power of the having an extra mechanical safety at that

ammo. If the hit is in the arm or leg, the critical moment could be the difference

threat will not go down irrespective of between life and death. Glocks are

kinetic energy of the round. Hence the infamous for having internal safety only.

debate of stopping power in comparison to Yet, most of the times one is not confronted

pistol calibers is generally misleading. 9 with a lethal threat. In such cases, mm platforms give acceptable stopping additional safety is a good thing to have, power, good ammo capacity and better especially if you are not well trained or availability of ammo & accessories in local there is a possibility of firearm going to the market. This makes it the safest choice for hands of someone incapable of handling it

the first firearm (especially in Pakistan). (children etc). Until one is well trained to

carry, handle and show the weapon safely, nternal/ External Safety I external safety is a well desired feature. Safety feature on a guns aims to ensure . A major portion of local gun that weapon is not accidently fired and it raining fires only when intended to. External Tcommunity comprises of people safeties require manual handling of the whose weapon handling experience is safety mechanism, whereas internal limited to a few flashy (and technically

safeties do not require any manual input. incorrect) pictures on social media and

Internal safety prevents firearm from some aerial firing. The agreeable standard for carrying a firearm for self-defense is that accidental firing if it is dropped or accidently you must have fired a minimum of 1000 touched. Some handguns are designed to rounds on range under supervision of a have no external safety, e.g. in case of law

18

proper instructor with that weapon. Save community really needs to improve their

yourself from untrained, inexperienced and training standards. All gun owners need to

self-proclaimed experts. Your cousin or have basic firearm knowledge to be

friend who owns a gun and has fired a few responsible firearm owners. More

aerial rounds is not your firearms instructor. instructors and shooting clubs need to

Even if someone has law enforcement come up to achieve this.

background, there is no guarantee that The bullet leaving muzzle of your gun is they are qualified to teach about firearms. solely your responsibility. Seek proper Learn safety rules, handling, drawing, training. Be responsible. maintenance and storage aspects other The process of buying your first than firing, from a qualified instructor. firearm is summarized in this diagram. The Do not put your life, lives of your loved ones green path is considered as the right path. or people around you in danger by not

getting adequate training. Local gun

Shotgun shooting under supervision of a coach

18 19

STEP BY STEP SELECTION PROCESS FOR YOUR FIRST FIREARM

20

The sport of engaging targets at

long distances started soon after the Zaheer A. Malik (He is a professional development of rifle. From muzzle loaders to modern rifles and from iron sights to hi- shooting sportsman who regularly participates tech optics, both equipment and sport are in competitions and shares his experience with still evolving. There are several types of shooting community) matches with their own rules and .308 Winchester caliber rifles are allowed, regulations for specific type of rifles. Briefly, fitted with a scope and bipod. In this match, the rifles used in different matches consist rear rest is allowed. The total weight of the of service rifles (including those used by F/ TR rifle should be under 8.25 Kgs or 18.8 Defence Forces and Law Enforcement lbs with all attachments. Agencies), sporting, tactical and match F Class (Open Class) is a long- rifles (F/ TR and F Class rifles). Service rifle range shooting discipline with any caliber matches are mostly allowed with iron sights up to .350 inch. The rifle is fitted with a at relatively shorter distances upto 300 scope and the maximum width of the fore- meters, while sporting and tactical rifles are end is 3 inches, front rest (tripods) and mostly limited to matches upto 600 meters, separate rear sandbags are allowed. The F/TR and F class rifles are used anywhere total weight of the rifle should not exceed between 600 to 1000 meters. F class 10 kgs or 22 lbs. Shooting position is shooting turns converts into Extreme Long allowed in prone only, while in F/TR; prone, Range like 1200 to 1500 meters and even standing and bench can be used. The F in farther. the name of both disciplines stands for the Here, I will talk a bit about the name of Canadian shooter George emerging sport of F/ TR and F class rifle FarQuharson who started F Class shooting in Pakistan. F/TR (Standard Class shooting. These shooting matches are Target Rifle) is a restricted competition discipline where only .223 Remington and

20 21

Credits - McMillan XIT Custom F Class Rifle

governed by the International number of hits in circles with designated Confederation of Full Bore Rifle value for each hit. For example, a shooter Association. Since this sport is relatively with 10 hits in a circle of 10 would score new in Pakistan and is still growing, the (10x10) 100 points, 5 shots in a circle of 9 organizers in the spirit of maximum would give him (9x5) 45 points and 5 shots participation customize the match rules. in a circle of 8 would add another (8x5) 40 Matches mostly consist of 20 shots, fired points, giving him a total score of 185 into a string of 10 shots each. All points. In the case of a tie between participants are allowed sighter shots shooters, the number of shots in the X ring before the start of the actual match to make decides the result. X ring is another circle corrections to the optics. The rifles mostly within a circle of 10, which gives shooters used in F/TR are chambered in .308 while standard 10 points but is useful in deciding F Class calibers in Pakistan being used his victory when two or more participants include 6mm, .284, .308 and .300. The have the same score. More the hits in X distance to target is 600 meters for F/TR ring, more are the chance of winning the match and 800 & 100 meters for F Class match. Most matches take place in the match. Target is made in 6 rings (X, 5, 10, province of Punjab at shooting ranges 20, 30, 40 and 50 inches) and size is 51x51 made by Pakistan Army. Famous cities inches. include Jehlum, Lahore, Bahawalpur, The scoring is done by totaling the Pabbi, Gartal near Larkana and Karachi. 22

This sport is considered elite and shooters who learn mostly by trial and error people of all ages wish to participate, but which also results in lack of interest and some barriers are limiting its growth in eventually quitting the sport. The basic terms of shooters. There is no recognition information provided in this article is for by the Government and there are strict new entrants with an effort to give them an regulations on import of all the equipment insight into this relatively closed required by shooters. Due to this fact alone, community. More details will be covered in many talented shooters shy away who upcoming issues of magazine focused on either don’t have the resources or the links availability and selection of equipment, to get the required rifles, scopes, and long-range shooting tips, reading wind & ammunition. To add to the difficulty, there mirage, customizing of ammunition and are limited number of shooting ranges other technical details that are necessary offering long-range rifle shooting and there for the sport. is a lack of training facility for civilian

F Class Custom Dolphin Rifle with IOR Crusader Optic in MAJOSC-2

23

REVIEW OF

(MAJOSC)

By Haroon Rashid Khan (A professional shooter)

nd 2 MAJOSC was organized successfully o Provide a joint platform where from 5th-18th December, 2019 at international, national and military

Bahawalpur. It was aimed at promoting shooters can compete with each

shooting sport and providing a joint other and learn from each other’s

platform for both civil and military experiences and skills.

shooters thereby benefiting from each

other’s skills and knowledge. The focus To develop competitive spirit among

of few Tactical and Hard Target shooters from all ages, the competition

Interdiction matches was to deliver cold included matches in following categories:

bore lethal hit at long and extreme long  F class

ranges (ELR).  T class

 Stalking rifle (hunting rifle)

 Small-bore (.22 calibre) rifle The event was designed to:  PCP rifle o Improve shooting skills in a  Pistol competitive environment. These matches acknowledged o Facilitate, encourage and promote participation at professional level as well shooting sports in the country. as amateur and veterans. o Conserve wildlife by providing

alternate shooting opportunities.

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Shooters were allowed to use F

Hard Target Interdiction (HTI) at Class, Bench Rest, Tactical Rifles 1200 meters and 1500 meters (less than 0.50 calibre) and The match was primarily planned to ELR Match – MAJOSC-2 test shooting capability at extreme long ranges. These matches were conducted for the first time in

Pakistan. Two matches at 1200 meters and 1500 meters were designed for .50 calibre rifle (primarily gadgetries in this match. These heavy sniper rifle). extreme long-range matches were

conducted for the first time in

Pakistan.

Tactical Rifle Match

This challenging match was designed

to test the skills of snipers and HTI Match – MAJOSC-2 spotters in a tactical application

setting. In Practice-1, the shooters Extreme Long Range (1200 meters had to take a cold bore shot from 600 and 1500 meters) meters and complete the remaining The ELR matches were conducted on fire in limited time while changing similar lines as that of HTI matches to shooting positions. In Practice-2, a accommodate civilian shooters who target was given at Unknown did not possess .50 calibre weapons.

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Distance (UKD), between 800-1000 meters. The match comprised of two meters, to the selected shooters in practices i.e. from 400 meters and

600 meters. Match was designed to

bridge the gap between assault rifle

and light sniper rifle, which is 300-600

meters using optical sight.

Preparation of Extreme Long Range Tactical Rifle Match - MAJOSC-2 (ELR) A new 1,500 meters ELR was Practice-1. The shooters were required to determine the distance on constructed in Bahawalpur. There were their own, work out the firing solution numerous challenges in designing and including calculation of wind hold off construction, which were addressed considering wind direction/ speed and through out-of-box approach and engage respective targets. determination by developers and

Rifle G-3 Marksmanship Match: managers.

Participation The purpose of this match was to verify the precision capability of o This competition generated a lot of selected G-3 rifles and to enhance interest among shooters from all shooting skills at ranges beyond 300 over the country. There were 1,132 entries from 322 shooters against 8

categories of 27 matches, including

national and international shooters,

ladies, boys and girls.

G-3 Marksmanship Match – MAJOSC-2

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o Participation of Russian National shooters from all across the country. It Tactical Match Shooter (T Class), also served as an opportunity to improve

Malchanov Evgenii and his spotter national integration manifested by

Evgen Olschewski has participation of close to 50 shooters

demonstrated new prospects to belonging to the province of Balochistan

international shooters for besides shooters from remote areas of

competitive shooting in Pakistan. other provinces.

Overall, 2nd MAJOSC provided an excellent platform for interaction between

Participation by Russian T Class Shooter Malchanov Evgenii and his spotter Evgen Olschewski in MAJOSC-2

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M A

J Girls Match in .22 Light Varmint Bench Rest 50 m O 2 S C

The most prestigious Tactical Rifle Match Trophy and other Trophies

Pistol Match 29

MA JOSC Championship A Breakthrough for Pakistan

Shooting Community

(Senior Veteran Professional Shooter from Balochistan) SardarSARDAR Naseer NASEER Muhammadzai MOHAMMADZA I

I Ihave have been been a a professional professional sports sport shootershooter forfor almostalmost 5050 yearsyears and and during during that that period, period, I Ihave have witnessed witnessed growthgrowth trends trends in in Pakistan’s Pakistan’s shootingshooting community.community. II feel thatthat mymy longlong journeyjourney toto competecompete in in 2 2ndnd Muhammad Muhammad Ali Ali JinnahJinnah Open Open Shooting Shooting Championship Championship (MAJOSC)(MAJOSC)--20192019 fromfrom BalochiBalochistanstan to BahawalpurBahawalpur waswas worthworth it,it, as as I Iwas was ableable to to experience experience thethe sportsports shooting shooting at at its its best best in Pakistan.in Pakistan. The The facilities facilities, and services providedprovided toto the the shooting shooting communitycommunity were were ofof globalglobal standardstandard –– aa view shared by hundredshundreds ofof professionalprofessional shootersshooters whowho arrivedarrived in i n BahawalpurBahawalpur from from all all corners corners of Pakistanof Pakistan and and those those who whocame came from abroadfrom abroad.. The organizers The organizers of MAJOSC of MAJOSC deserve mydeserve deepest my congratulations deepest congratulations for conducting for conducting such a momentous such a moment event.ous It is event. my sincere It is my hope sincere that hopesuch thatevents such will continueevents will to takecontinue place to in take future, place espec in future,ially to especially provide an to outlet provide to Pakistanian outlet toshooting Pakistani professionals shooting professionals to hone their skillsto hone in a theirprofessional skills in anda professional a competitive and environment, competitive whichenvironment, would greatly which helpwould in notnot onlyonly helpcreating in cr aeating platform a forplatform young forsportsmen young sportsmen but would butalso also help raise raise much much-needed-needed awareness awarenes sregarding regarding wildlife wildlife conservation conservation and and responsibleresponsible use use of of firearms. firearms. In In the the end,end, II amam hophopefuleful that the initiativeinitiative ofof “PakPak ShootingShooting” Magazine magazine will will become become a platforma platform to harvestto express the theintellectual experiences potential of Pakistan’s of Pakistan’s shooting shooting community. community.

Sardar Naseer Mohammadzai

Quetta, Balochistan

(Senior Veteran Professional Shooter)

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Bringing the Wildlife Back from the Brink

Muzammil Raza (He is the student of geology at Punjab University Lahore having keen interest in ecology, wildlife conservation and habitat restoration in Pakistan)

threatened animals is iconic among

Pakistan is home to a large variety of species living in the Himalayan Ranges in Pakistan. Asian Black Bear found in wildlife. From the green plains of Punjab to the arid rocky mountains of the mountains of Southern Balochistan, especially in the ranges of Takht-e- Balochistan, Pakistan boasts varying landscapes with amazing ecosystems Suleman and Toba Kakar is almost lost.

and habitat diversity. However, due to The Indus River Dolphin, an various factors, many species of fauna adorable creature is classified as the found in Pakistan are on the brink of second most endangered freshwater extinction. In developed nations, Dolphin. The Blue Whale is listed as endangered species are carefully endangered in IUCN Red List, its current protected. Regrettably though, in global population stands at around Pakistan no effective mechanism of 10,000 to 25,000. These are the largest wildlife conservation exists. animals to have ever existed on earth According to research conducted by various institutes, endangered animals are the ones that will be lost to the world in the next few years unless resolute actions are taken to conserve them. Markhor, for example, the majestic national animal of our country Suleman Markhor in Takatu Mountain Range, Quetta has been classified as ‘near threatened’ growing up to 100 feet long and 200 tons by the International Union for the but for some reason, they have not been Conservation of Nature. Snow Leopard, spotted on the Pakistani coast for years perhaps the best known of Pakistan’s now.

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The Long-Billed Vulture may predators, particularly the large cats. A seem like a sinister flesh-eater but these greater number of wild boars have led to scavengers play an essential role in the trampling and uprooting of crops and Pakistan’s ecosystem, however, these reduction in the numbers of snakes, birds have been killed wholesale due to which in turn has led to an increase in the the usage of a deadly drug component in number of rats, responsible for huge cattle. All of these animals are endemic post-harvest losses of grain. The to Pakistan and are included in IUCN’s decrease in numbers of birds of prey has Red List. The numbers of the Siberian led to an increase in the number of Crane are becoming exceptionally low as undesirable pest birds. The main reason they are being netted and hunted behind this crisis is that there is no proper ruthlessly all along their migration route system of legal hunting in Pakistan and in Pakistan. we do not notice it until a specie reaches to the edge of extinction. A greater threat Disturbing the natural order has to wildlife than hunting, however, is other subtler consequences. The probably the disappearance of habitat or increase in the numbers of wild boars, the grazing competition with livestock. jackals, and porcupines, for example, is directly attributable to the elimination of

A pair of Chinkara Antelope in Cholistan

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The most significant threat to animals have therefore been hunted to Pakistan’s biodiversity is posed by extinction by illegal and uncontrolled hunting. Moreover, Rampant Deforestation – Lal Suhanra Reserve Forest in Bahawalpur various types of lizards and snakes are hunted for their skin, as are crocodiles and other large mammals.

Evidence shows that timely and targeted conservation efforts can help avoid species extinction and deforestation, which is estimated at 1% help their recovery. However, even once annually, as well as overgrazing, soil recovered, many species remain erosion, rampant illegal hunting, and conservation-dependent, requiring fishing, as well as poor agricultural support over decades. We need to focus practices. As a result, it is estimated that on the species most critically in need and at least 12% of plants and several of the find the most appropriate interventions, animal species are threatened. The from reintroduction to managing the increasing population is also a major spread of diseases. We also need to threat to the biodiversity of Pakistan. This increase scientific and management principal threat to biodiversity comes capacity to achieve more than we could from the increased pressure on natural do alone and ensure the sustainability of resources produced by high population conservation actions. The Government growth and demand for increased has taken very pragmatic steps to standards of living. Hunting has deep counter the effects of climate change in roots in Pakistani culture, as it was a the long run. The Billion Tree Tsunami popular recreation of the elite and is still extremely popular today. The wild

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and Clean Green Pakistan are well- known projects and have received international appreciation. The initiative taken by the Prime Minister was well received and joined by the government institutions like the Pakistan Army, Railways, Education, and other government departments. Great Indian Bustard in Cholistan These projects will surely help Pakistan regain its forest cover. We policies need to be formulated that need to focus on the developmental discourage illegal hunting and approach in biodiversity conservation. deforestation. It is said, “it is never too We need to design a well-planned and late to mend” so we just need to revisit futuristic system that allows us to our policies and our collective point of conserve our rich biodiversity whilst view towards the issue of endangered confronting the challenges that we face biodiversity and climate change. Lastly, to implement our policies. We need to the role of community-based make serious policies and formulate laws organizations (CBOs) is very important. that enforce them. We can develop a These organizations need to be provided legal system of hunting which should be with adequate help from the authorities to based on data from the Wildlife further expand and intensify Department. The department should conservation efforts. Without the collect, observe, and control data involvement of Government, Law comprising the number of animals and Enforcement, Military and the local their growth rate. Controlled trophy community itself – the conservation hunting should be encouraged and the efforts cannot succeed and our pristine money collected from it should be spent wildlife will remain under mortal danger. on providing a better environment for the animals to breed and also to conserve and re-establish their habitat. Such

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HUNTING CALIBERS CURRENTLY IN USE IN PAKISTAN

By Jawed Umar (A professional veteran and avid shooter with significant knowledge and contribution to the shooting sport) powder in 1932 in the US by the Savage There are a very large number of Arms, using .223” diameter bullets. This hunting calibers world over. It would not be changed after WW2 and the later rifles and possible to cover all; besides the scope of ammunition are using a groove diameter of this article is to cover those calibers which .224”. Bullets from 40 grains to 70 grains are popular and in use in Pakistan. We also are available, with velocities ranging from tend to hunt with whatever caliber rifle we 1900 to about 2745 feet per second. A have due to limitations in availability of small game caliber not to be used for any quality firearms and ammunition. I will start game heavier than 20Kg. with the smallest caliber and progress on to bigger ones. .222 Remington: Introduced in 1950, and became an instantly popular cartridge. .22 Hornet: It is a mild recoiling cartridge Early rifles had 1:12 twist and do not and its report is much lower than other stabilize heavier bullets. It is Left to Right .22 Long Rifle, .22 Magnum, .22 Hornet similar and not interchangeable with the worldwide-recognized .223 Remington. There has to be a slight modification of the chamber by a knowledgeable gunsmith with a proper reamer

calibers. It is good out to 200 meters and and head-space gauges to can take Chinkara Antelopes effectively. convert it into a .223 Remington. .222 Rem Bigger Animals like Urial, Ibex, and The barrel twist however is an impediment.

Markhor have been mostly wounded or .223 Remington (Also known as taken by local Poachers who stalk to within 5.56x45mm or 5.56 NATO): Bullets 50 meters, taking a day or to reach from 40 grains to 70 grains and match and take a headshot; a criminal practice bullets up to 77 grains are used at which results in wounded animals. The little velocities ranging from 2850 to 3350 feet Hornet was introduced in smokeless per second. It is a good round and very

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4100 ruin the barrel throat and give less barrel life. These lighter bullets may not be used for Hog Deer or Boar; as at the close ranges the impact velocities are too high and the light thin-skinned varmint bullets often disintegrate causing a large superficial wound letting the poor animals run away to die a miserable death after several days. These are varmint calibers and of little use in our part of the world; 220 Swift 22-250 although, at 300 meter or more, animals .223 Rem upto 60-75 Kg may be taken effectively with popular as military ammunition as it is heavier 70 grain bullets. abundantly available at cheap prices. The .243 Winchester. It is nothing more than military version (5.56 NATO) may be used a .308 case necked down and a 6mm/ safely in private weapons but the militaries .243-inch bullet. An excellent cartridge for do not encourage the use of hunting ammo mid-range in light hunting rifles. It is in military weapons as despite the shiny accurate brass and coloured card board boxes and even hunting ammunition can have quality children can control issues and higher pressure. shoot it 22-250. It is based on the 250 Savage comfortably. case necked down to shoot .224” bullets It shoots challenging the .220 Swift, which remains bullets from the fastest. However, 22-250 is more 70 grains to popular. It can shoot bullets of 40 grains to 105 grains 70 grains with velocities ranging from 3400 at just under feet per second to 4090 feet per second. 3000 feet per second. .220 Swift One of my friend Aftab Khan, shot a huge Introduced in 1935, five years after the 22- NEEL GAI bull at about 150 meters or so, it 250, bullets from 40 to 70 grains varying was a spectacular kill. The bull jumped up from 3300 to 4100 feet per second with the in the air; a sign of a heart shot and heavier 70 grains bullets. Light bullets at

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dropped in its tracks. We opened it to find and study bullet performance, the bullet, a .257 Weatherby 105 grain SAKO soft point went through the heart making one and a half-inch hole in it, after having passed between the strong ribs. We discussed the shot with our mentor (Late Major Sardar Aman Ullah Khan) who was well known amongst the gun lovers all over Pakistan, and they still lovingly remember him as Major Saib. He was with us in 1981 on this occasion. It was Africa, which is quite hard to put down, concluded that if the bullet had hit the whereas a gentleman has even shot a shoulder, the bull would have survived and Cape buffalo. However, both are not walked away due to large hard bones being recommended, as it is illegal and the majestic second largest Antelope in the dangerous. But with two double .416 Rigby world after the African Eland. A .243 is or Weatherby rifles along with an good for animals about 70 Kg to about 100 experienced guide it is entirely different. kg at 200 m flat after which the wind .270 Winchester. A very popular round in deflection take over and it loses its killing Pakistan due to its low recoil and its easy power. availability at a moderate price. Introduced .257 Weatherby. An excellent long-range in 1925 in US, it has killed every animal cartridge for hunting, however, few rifles of this caliber exist in Islamabad and Balochistan. Availability of ammunition is a problem and it is quite expensive. Bullets are from 87 to 120 grains with velocities ranging from 3150 to 3700 feet per second. The high ballistic coefficient of .433 and a Left to right sectional density of .247. Higher sectional 130-grain (8.4 g) hollow point, 100-grain (6.5 g) FMJBT, 130-grain (8.4 g) soft point, 160- density in a hunting bullet enables it to grain (10 g) lead round nose penetrate relatively more through major effectively with bullets ranging from 100 muscle and bones. Some hunters have grains to 160 grains and a 140 grains bullet shot and killed a Zebra while using it in in between. It is an effective cartridge with

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velocities ranging from 3070 to 3300 feet at par with other calibers at medium per second for 130 grains bullets and about ranges. It is effective due to high sectional 2825 feet per second for 150 grains bullets. density which provides more penetration The cartridge is at its best with 130 grains and expansion. A 175 grains bullet with a bullets. It gained popularity due to famous ballistic coefficient of .468 and a sectional late Jack O’ Conner of USA. density of .465 is most effective for big 7x57mm Mauser game. Major W.D.M Bell, known as Designed by Paul Mauser in 1892, the Karamojo Bell; the African area where he 7mm Mauser happens to be the hunted a thousand or more elephants with grandfather of all modern cartridges. After 6.5 and 7mm rifles placing a shot in the being adopted by Mexico and other Latin head from an angel at which the bullet went into the brain without obstruction of the very thick skull, he studied an elephant skull which he placed outside his hut. He used these calibers with FMJ bullets and

preferred these because of their high GP11 ballistic coefficient and hence penetration.

mm/ This was in early 1900s. Imagine the tusks

of those majestic pachyderms becoming

7.5x55 billiard balls and adoring furniture and jewelry. Man’s predatory lust is boundless. 7x57 mm American countries with the old German .284 Winchester/ 7mm. It uses a Mauser as a service round, it became an rebated, rimless case. To accommodate a instant hit. Bullets available for a 7mm/ .284 .308 Winchester barrel, the rifle requires inch vary from 115 grains to 175 grains; only a change of barrel and the calibers can hunting bullets at velocities from 2400 feet be swapped with convenience; without per second to 2800 feet per second. making any further changes. A friend is However, the modern rifles including the already doing it with his .308 Dolphin Mauser 1898 can be hand-loaded to higher having 2 calibers just by swapping barrels. velocities. The 160 grains bullet is very As both barrels are fitted for the same capable and may be loaded up to 2600 feet action, therefore, a check of head space is per second. Due to its high ballistic all that is required without any further effort. coefficient and sectional density it performs The gentleman mentioned above secured

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a position in 2nd Muhammad Ali Jinnah fired five shots, the group was about half an Open Shooting Championship. All .284 inch. But I noted strange, very fine pin Win bullets can be driven at about 200 - holes on the target paper around some 300 feet per second faster than a hand bullet’s holes, whereas the rest of the paper loaded 7mm Mauser. was clean. It lingered on my mind and I 7mm Remington Magnum. Introduced decided to shoot at 200 m. Lo and behold, in 1964, two years after .300 Win Mag. It there was not a single bullet on paper of has been my favourite for almost fifty years. 4x4 feet. I was totally devastated and I had to change three rifles for having shot thought of going back to a 100 m. Again the out the barrels but still, three to four rifles of same small groups were there, with the the same caliber have been always in my above mentioned pin holes. Then, a range possession. It is sufficient for any big game assistant asked to stand behind me with a in Pakistan, may it be Chinkara Antelope, binocular. After I fired a third round, he said Neel Gai Bull, a Marco Polo sheep, Ibex, that at about 150 meters or so the bullets Urials of all subspecies, Asian produced smoke. Then I Brown Bear also known as realized that the particular Ursus Arcatos or the Red 120 grain bullets were for Bear (maximum 7 to 8 feet varmint shooting with very high, weighing 600 - 700 thin jackets, and were not to pounds). It shoots all 7mm / be fired at magnum .284 bullets from 120 grains to velocities; these were self- 180 grains considerably destructing due to high faster than the .284. It is a fast velocity of nearly 3300 feet cartridge amongst the popular per second and being

medium bore rifle cartridges. .308 Win .284 Win 7 mm Rem varmint bullets were very thin Magnum With high ballistic coefficient jacketed. I never used bullets & sectional density for bullet weight and under 150 grains and ideally 160 grains caliber and a multifarious choice of bullet bullets were my choice. The polymer tip or types, it has always remained as my first ballistic tip bullets were first introduced by choice for hunting. It is an accurate caliber Nosler in early 80s and they were my first and performs superbly on big game. choice. They never let me down may it be While developing loads for it with a Big Bear, Marco Polo Sheep, Ibex (both 120 grains Nosler soft points at 100 m, I varieties), Suleman Markhor (in Ashewat),

38 39

Urial or Blue Bull. I never shot Chinkara or almost an improved or faster version of the a Black Buck in my life. Based on .308 Winchester. Being lengthier, the experience, I use heavier bullets in high reloaded round may not chamber in velocity calibers. They have the ability for hunting rifles and even if it does, it is likely deep penetration and killing the animal on to run at very high pressures and cause the spot. In contrast, light weight, high trouble. It can shoot bullets of 100 grains at velocity bullets more often break upon 3250 feet per second and 200 grains at impact, causing superficial wounds. The 2400 feet per second. In 80s there was an animal is wasted meeting a miserable accelerator ammunition; a 55 grains bullet death due to festering wounds or being in polymer sabots, an exact replica of tank killed by other predators. APDS (armour piercing discarding sabots) .308 Winchester/ 7.62X51mm NATO. ammunition. It was very accurate in some They are all the same except, military rifles but useless in most. The rifles had to grade ammunition is loaded with somewhat be zeroed but once switching back and lesser pressure as it is also used in forth to 150 grains or 165 grains there use machine guns. Manufactured by all NATO to be a two feet zeroing difference. Due to countries, as their platoon or medium above mentioned reason, I never liked this machine guns use it. The hunting round and it slowly faded away ammunition is slightly hotter and hence, not everywhere. Probably, it is not allowed by militaries to be used in machine manufactured anymore. Once it was under guns or automatic rifles. It is the most production, it appeared in 30-06 as well as popular caliber here for matches and in 30-30. hunting. Its development started just after The .308 Winchester has almost the First World War by US Ordnance for similar ballistics as of a 30-06, but it tends T65 rifle and as machine gun cartridge. to be more accurate and a rifle in .308 Win Being half inch shorter in length than 30-06 is built on a short action, saving meant shorter and lighter parts for the considerable weight. Saved weight can be machine guns and automatic put where it belongs, “the barrel”. It was rifles. Winchester introduced it in 1952 as liked by hunters and it got popular as .308 Winchester for commercial purpose. It surplus military ammunition (from is a very versatile and balanced round. Its departments other than the army) was hunting bullets are of 130 -180 grains. The abundantly available at cheap prices. long throated (1:10 rifled) F Open Rifles are Similarly, US ball ammunition (belted) was

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also available at throw-away prices. The base, if the point is off, the pressure will Pakistan Ordinance Factory also makes force the soft lead core out. ball ammunition that in contrast was more 7mm Weatherby Magnum. In accurate but expensive. I used it during performance it is a similar cartridge to the various matches and hunting and felt 7mm Remington Magnum. With an handicapped at times due to its trajectory. inverted venturi Stuck with 7mm Magnum due to its flatter shoulder and a trajectory. A 30-06 is fine up to 300 m but longer neck both when hand loaded to higher velocities it is new designs a long range cartridge. Most hunters due to somehow could not these reasons switch to different calibers. catch up. It has For Wild Boar, nothing is better than round similar ballistics, nosed 165 grains bullets, for they expand going about 70-100 violently and have deep penetration. High feet per second velocity bullets on missing the target hit the 7 mm Weatherby faster in contrast to Magnum ground and pulverize at short & medium 7mm Rem Magnum ranges. Whereas, in contrast, low velocity in medium weight and heavy bullets. bullets do not break up but ricochet. .30-06 Spring Field. It is still one of the Similarly, all military bullets will ricochet most popular caliber in US as well in and travel a long distance, up to two Pakistan. Till late 80s, hunting rifles were kilometers or more at times. These are imported from every country and variety of dangerous / lethal because they have a full new sporting rifles were available. At metal jacket (copper coated steel jackets or reasonable prices, one could buy Steyrs, with a steel penetrator inside the bullets). Brownings, Pre 64 Some unknowing hunters file the tip Winchesters, model off to make it soft or hollow point; it does 700 ADL and BDL not work. In fact, it is a potentially Remingtons. The US dangerous practice as the core will bleed Army adopted the 30- out (one out of 5 times) and get stuck in the 06 in 1906, hence the barrel, a follow up shot will blow up the affix '06. The .308 Win rifle. As military bullets, unlike hunting is pretty much the bullets or match bullets have an exposed same as the old rifles. .300 H&H .30-06 Once hand loaded, the Magnum Springfield

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30 -06 is faster and delivers a heavy punch with 215 grains bullet. Later it switched to close to a 300 H&H. smokeless powder using different bullet .300 H&H Magnum and .300 Winchester weights between 150 grains and 180 grains Magnum. These are again similar in with cordite propellant. This cartridge ruled performance, so we will discuss about .300 the world for about 70 years and is still Win Mag. Most of us are very familiar with found with African & Indian Police and it, hunting and reloading it and using it in some second line Indian Army the 1000m and 1500m ELR matches. The troops. There were thousands of British 300 Win shoots bullets from 150 grains to Army officers and civil servants who took 230 grains depending upon the rifling. A .303 for hunting without much knowledge. versatile caliber having noticeable recoil in At the end of the day, the number of the so- medium and lighter weight rifles. called Gora Sahabs killed and wounded Sometimes it gives you a “Rifle Man’s Love was more or equal to the Indian Tigers, Bite” above the eyebrow, a self-coined Elephants and Leopards taken. Thanks to name, I coined for the better-known Rifle the inadequacy of the poor old .303, they Man’s Half-Moon. It is an awful cut and did not know any better. The gentlemen reminds you to mount your scope at a officers and Shikaris using the .404 Jeffery proper distance and adjust eye relief or Rigby .416 and .450 etc. Jim Corbett correctly. Correct holding of the rifle is used the .450 or .400 or a .275 Rigby, a sort important to prevent it from happening. It is of 7mm Magnum with heavy and slower a favored sniper round these days. Its bullets were not only more successful but range extends up to 1500 meters for safer from the claws and teeth. Rifles like experienced hand loaders with long Number 4 Mark 1 Enfield’s are now rare but throated long barrels. It delivers more energy at longer ranges and has a weapon signature nearly identical to .308 Winchester. It cannot be discriminated / located easily. Barrels with 1:10 inches twist are used generally, for the 230 grain bullets the 1:9 twist is preferred. .303 Lee Enfield. It was developed in the year 1895 about 3 years after the 7x57mm

1892 Mauser. It initially used black powder .303 Lee Enfield

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still seen in Pakistan, as AK’s and M16s about 100 miles per hour and patrolled at have taken over these old but grand nearly 60 miles an hour, flying just above rifles. These are very accurate, despite a tree tops. The shooter was Cedric Popkin. weak action. Apart from accuracy, it lacked The 303 and its military ammunition in every aspect as per modern standards. is used by some riflemen to hunt mountain However, the long free bore and low game in remote areas of Pakistan but soft pressure rounds it fired, made it safe. It has nose bullets are not available here and I a long sight radius and a fine aperture don’t advise using military ammunition due sight. A battle sight is also fixed with a to the reasons discussed earlier. larger aperture, zeroed to shoot a man’s The Hunting Bullet upper body from 100 - 300 yards. It would be pertinent to discuss the hunting It has very fine leaf sight with bullets to a little extent. I will first give an accurate graduations for shooting up to example I read somewhere - if three 1300 yards. If I remember correctly, it had Chinkara Antelope are shot with three odd ranges (1,3,5 etc) marked on the left of rifles, a 375 H&H, a 22-250 and a 7x57. All the leaf sight and the even numbers on the three at similar range but one drops dead, right. It also used to have an anti-aircraft one limps away and the third runs full sight. Before we laugh remember Baron speed. The runner was running with a gut Manfred Von Richtoven, the German Blue shot with a 375 H&H, the 22-250 hit in the Max and Iron Cross, the air ace of aces of hind leg and a 22 Magnum in the chest of World War I who had shot down 80 British the one that dropped dead. It is the shot fighters, was shot down on 21 April 1918 placement, which is most important. with a Rifle Number 4 Mark 1 by an Secondly, always use suitable bullets to Australian soldier, located with his battalion match the game size and weight, you may in France. He had fired a shot with his rifle, err on the heavier side but lighter bullets which hit Manfred Von Richtoven in the are not preferable. liver, and he landed close to his position in Hunting bullets are meant to penetrate a field. A controversy and research deeply, to increase in diameter to cause a continues till date whether it was a 303 or larger wound channel causing rapid trauma LMG bullet. The bullet was recovered after and blood trail. Thirdly, the bullet must not autopsy and confirms to the rifling of the disintegrate or lose weight. rifle. The planes were mostly made out of It might be noticed that first two oppose wood & fabric. They flew at a maximum of each other and the third re-enforces the

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first two requirements. These conflicting The bullets are effective at certain ranges requirements are met by bullet due to the retained velocities at those manufacturers in different ways and ranges, depending on caliber, bullet weight approaches after a lot of R&D and and the bullet construction. The terminal expenses. ballistics is what happens after the bullet impacts. Hunting Bullets

Choice of Hunting Bullets

Left to Right: .300 Win Mag Cart with 180 grain soft point core-lokt. The choice of various other bullets in the same cart with weight and type are shown.

Most of SMKs are match bullets where as 220 grain and 180 grain B-tip as well as the cart with core-lokt projectile are all hunting bullets.

A line up of 7 mm Rem Mag Cart with an array of match and hunting projectiles

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By Azeem Ur Rahman (A professional competitive shooter and gold medalist in Muhammad Ali Jinnah Open Shooting Championship)

Pistol shooting is not a difficult always on good shooting techniques i.e. skill. However, to master pistol shooting Stance, Grip, Breathing, Sight Alignment, there are certain fundamentals that every Sight Picture, Trigger Control and Follow shooter has to be familiar with. In the Through. beginning, most shooters repeat the tance: Shooting starts with how you same basic mistakes because of lack of S stand. There is no perfect stance for guidance or simply because it is the most pistol shooting; every shooter might natural thing to do, such as looking at the have a slightly different stance from target rather than keeping their eyes on the front sight. You might have tried several shooting tips, which you have read online or from shooting books/ magazines or advice that have heard from other fellow shooters to improve your skills. But that advice does not make a great deal of difference in your shooting. It is essential to be focused Stance

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another. Your stance should be steady, forefinger. The position of your hand comfortable and same every time. should be the same every time you For a comfortable stance, place shoot. This is vital, since slight changes your feet about shoulder-width apart and in the position of your hand, gripping your shoulders should be aligned with the tension, thumb pressure and even the shooting target line. This is a comfortable positioning of your finger on the trigger way to stand and also helps to keep the will make a significant difference for body balanced. Knees and elbows shots on target. A firm grip enables the should be locked, back and neck must be trigger finger to work independently from straight. Balance of the body is extremely the others and makes squeezing the important. Try to keep the balance equal trigger more comfortable for the shooter. between the toes and heels. You can anchor your non-shooting hand in a trouser pocket or hooked into your belt or belt loop. This will help you to balance your body while shooting.

rip plays a vital role in precision Gshooting. Always remember to check that your pistol is centered between the web of your thumb Breathing and It is not advisable to breathe your during the final sighting process since it can disturb your sight alignment and can affect your accuracy. That is why it is recommended to hold your breath during the shot. Experienced shooters take a Image Courtesy - Daudsons Armory couple of deep breaths and then exhale slowly before holding their breath to fire a

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shot. The slow exhale technique provides optimal levels of Oxygen to the brain, resulting in a steady shot process and clearer vision. ight Alignment and Sight Picture S To shoot at the target accurately means you have proper sight alignment and sight picture. Sight alignment simply means having the front and rear sights in line with your eyesight so that you can shoot straight at your target. Once a shooter has understood target. Naturally, a novice shooter would the concept of sight alignment, it’s time to avoid shooting at a target that is not move onto the sight picture. Sight picture clear. This is one of the shooting’s most means your target is aligned with your common misconceptions. The focus of front and rear sights. When you squeeze the eye must be on the front sight of the the trigger, the resulting shot will be pistol and sight picture must be aligned

accurate, as you intended. properly to get the most accuracy out of New shooters are very reluctant to the pistol. Don’t look at the target and accept that the last thing you want to rear sights. Just focus on the front sight focus on is your front sight rather than the while maintaining proper sight picture. Focus on the front sight, if it is sharp enough, you are doing it right because the target will mostly be a blur. When you squeeze the trigger smoothly, you will be surprised when the shot breaks and will be pleasantly more surprised when you see the results on target.

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rigger Control all fingers work in correlation to one TTriggering is indeed an art. The another; therefore, the shooter must shooter must squeeze the trigger as soon master the art of moving trigger finger without compromising on the pressure, the other fingers are applying on the grip of the pistol. The trigger finger must be free of any obstacles that may affect a smooth trigger squeeze, such as the trigger finger coming in contact with the trigger guard during this process.

as the sights come into the aiming area

of target. Keep applying steady pressure ollow Through and wait for the shot to break. If the shot F After the break of the shot, it is does not break within 10 seconds, lower important to continue the trigger squeeze down the gun, relax, breathe, then try or follow through till 2-3 seconds. It again. prevents you from jerking the gun before “The Secret is accepting that movement I see in the sights. Holding them as close as I can to my aiming mark and being smooth on the trigger like I am dragging my finger through thick peanut butter.” Julie Golob (An American Professional Sport Shooter) Two common mistakes most shooters do unintentionally is to anticipate the gun’s recoil, which causes jerking of the trigger. Secondly, they fail to move the trigger finger independently from the rest of the hands. Human biomechanics state that

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the bullet has left the barrel. The follow- rest of your life as a champion” through combines the shooting (Muhammad Ali) fundamentals into one continuous action. The best way to develop your This technique of applying the follow muscle memory is dry firing. Accuracy through reduces the chances of the bullet can be affected by several factors changing its course before it has left the including how you hold the gun and your barrel of the pistol. body position/ stance. To adopt a arm-Up before the Match comfortable natural shooting stance, dry W A shooter must always firing helps you to develop muscle carryout dry practice before a memory for these learned actions to match. The body needs time and practice become second nature. Dry firing at to tune in for the assigned task. This also home allows you to master these skills ensures that blood and oxygen levels are without visiting the shooting range and affectively supplied to muscles in the consuming ammunition. fingers, arms and shoulders that will be Building muscle memory in our needed by the shooter during the hands, arms, shoulders and chest enable practice/ event. the gun to move perfectly in the right eveloping Muscle Memory position every time. This is from the D Muscle memory is a learned relaxed ‘gun-down position’ before the action that develops through shot to the position when the shooter’s repetitive movement. To be able to arm is fully extended and ready for the repeat a perfect shot every time, you shot. need to train your body to get into the ry Firing same position consistently resulting in D “My advice on improving shooting more accurate shots on target. One and accuracy are dry fire exercises” should practice this in both training and (Helmut Brokamp) competitions to replicate the feeling and emotions for each type of condition. The dry firing means shooting without ammunition. It can be done at “I hated every minute of training, but I home with an unloaded gun pointed to a said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the wall by standing one foot away from the

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wall. Just raise your gun by maintaining Don’t do this. Always focus on your sights, focus on the front sight and fundamentals during live practice or dry keep on squeezing the trigger until you firing. hear the click of the shot. If your front When you start practicing with sight moves or gets disturbed, it shows your gun while basing on these that you are jerking the trigger or fundamentals then soon you’ll start anticipating the shot. Both have dire beating your buddies whether you are consequences when shooting, which can shooting together or competing in any be avoided by squeezing the trigger with gun competition/ event. the perfect sight picture. “The learning comes, not when the gun “Accuracy is knowing your trigger. goes BANG, but when it goes CLICK. Where the break is, where the reset is, When the gun goes CLICK, the barrel all while managing recoil.” should not move.” (Les Hall) (Monte A. Jessee) As said earlier, Pistol shooting is not a difficult skill but you can make it Happy Shooting… difficult by ignoring the fundamentals.

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Ziarat

N

Pishin Quetta Kuchlak Hurramzai Tehsil Mastung By Aman Ullah Faiz of herbal plants, shrubs, Juniper trees (A nature enthusiast having keen interest in and wild fruit plants including Cherries, wildlife conservation in Pakistan) Almonds and Figs. Other plants include Shin Gul (used for medicinal purpose), Shahna, Jungli Gulab, Zaraig, Chanjan Butti, Tarkha, Shorai, Khumbi and Sounf.

Takatu Range is the habitat of many wild animals including Leopard,

Suleman Markhor, Urial, Caracal,

Pallas’s Cat, Wolf, Sand Cat and birds Takatu Mountain Range is located like Sissi, Chakour and wild Pigeons. north east of Quetta (Balochistan) covering an area of approximately 150 square kilometers. Highest peak of Takatu Range is Loai Saar (3,472 meters above sea level). It is the second highest peak of Quetta and third highest peak of Balochistan. Takatu Range, with its rugged rocky features has a variety of alpine and sub alpine flora, large variety Suleman Markhor

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Poaching a premature potential trophy Takatu Range – Winter However, the habitat at Takatu is seriously affected due to illegal hunting, illegal grazing of livestock, deforestation, ineffective role of Wildlife Department and scarcity of water. As a result, there was a sharp decline in the number of Suleman Markhors in this mountain, which were reduced to only 12 by 1998. Despite ban on hunting, poachers were selling the horns and skins of Markhor to pseudo sportsmen and smuggling them Herd of Suleman Markhor abroad. president of the organization. After

registration of CBO, several Efforts to Preserve Wildlife of Takatu conservation measures were taken In order to thwart illegal hunting which resulted in an increase in number and save the rare species of wildlife, in of Suleman Markhor by 250 till 2003. 1999 the local tribe of the area (Kakar However, due to tribal rivalry, lack of Bazai), with support of Balochistan support from Wildlife Department and Wildlife Department, registered a various local issues, CBO became Community Based Organization ineffective from 2003 to 2015. (CBO) under the name of “Takatu Waror Revival of CBO – 2015 Galvai (Brotherhood) Taraqi Tanzeem”. Due to enormous efforts of the Mr. Abdul Malik Bazai (Late) was the first Honorary Chairman, Syed Muhammad

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Adnan, the CBO was made operational . In case of shortfall in the number of and re-registered in October 2015. Its applications in any of the above bylaws and organization was revamped mentioned categories, the permit will and proper membership registration was be awarded to that category in which ensured. the number of applications exceeds Rules and Regulations of CBO the number of permits. A bottom up approach was . 80% share of the earnings is adopted to benefit local community while allocated to community while 20% is formulating rules and regulations. These given to the Wildlife Department. rules and regulations are based on . Bird hunting permits are also conservation of wildlife and inclusion of allocated in a fair and practical local community. In this model, hunting manner. sport is made accessible to all, including . 20% of national permits and 20% of community sportsmen. Out of total local permits are put to bidding while permits, 30% are reserved for remaining are issued through a community, 30% for Balochistan, 30% ballot. are national permits and only 10% are Efforts Done by CBO for the foreigners. This model has Preparation – Man made Reservoir in the Mountain for Wildlife brought more opportunities for the local community while previously the locals only acted as porters, cooks, camp followers and guides. It was also decided that only 4 permits should be allocated per 100 animals to balance the number of animals in the herds. Cost of permits

is as under:- Colossal voluntary efforts were . Local Community - Rs. 50,000 per permit. . Balochistan Province - Rs. 300,000 per put in by the community to preserve the permit. wildlife and habitat in Takatu, including . National - Rs. 400,000 per permit. rare Suleman Markhor, whose numbers . - US$ 100,000 per permit. International in Takatu Range had dropped to approximately 40 Markhors in 2015.

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Following steps were taken by the than 1200 today as a result of community in this regard:- measures taken to preserve wildlife. Preservation of flora and fauna of The number of other animal and bird Takatu Range by preventing illegal species found in Takatu range has hunting, over-grazing and increased considerably. Few Urials deforestation. were sighted in the area after a long Cleaning/ maintenance of existing time. water reservoirs and development of Before 2015, no challans/ fines were additional man made water reservoirs imposed on illegal hunting. However, in Takatu Range for wildlife. due to dedicated efforts of CBO and Apprehension of illegal hunters and its leadership, about 35-40 challans poachers by Wildlife Department in have been served to curb illegal cooperation with local Law hunting in between 2015-2020 Enforcement Agencies. Number of trees in the area has also Establishment of protection camps on increased due to check on self-help basis during breeding and deforestation and over-grazing. fawning season. Due to ban on deforestation and Awareness campaign to educate the timely rains, there is a rise in water community on detrimental impacts of levels of adjoining villages that illegal hunting. ultimately benefits the local Self-managed reforestation campaign communities. every year. The above mentioned factors have Accrued Dividends resulted in economic benefits to the Owing to the dedicated, honest local community as well as the and persistent efforts made by the Government. members and leadership of CBO, An eco-friendly environment has following dividends have been flourished and there has been a spike achieved:- in tourism demand. The number of Suleman Markhor in Ironically, with the growing the mountain has increased to more successes of CBO, the cooperation of Balochistan Wildlife Department has

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diminished. Probably local officials think of this success as a proof of their own inability. No permits had been issued, which indirectly facilitated resumption of poaching. However, on special request of CBO Patron, Honourable Chief Minister Balochistan Jam Kamal despite negative advice of Wildlife Department, issued 9 local permits to the community. He also advised the department to acquire a quota of foreign permits as per census of Markhor numbers from CITES. This special and unprecedented support has galvanized the resolve of the community further. It will dramatically reduce poaching in the community- managed area. Chief Minister has also promised funds for building small dams in the mountain for wildlife. Such initiatives, therefore, should be encouraged across Pakistan by incorporating local communities and other stakeholders, in order to ensure the survival of habitat and wildlife from the threat of indiscriminate poaching and

extinction.

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AK-12 – TH GENERATION PRODUCT REVIEW

KALASHNIKOV

By Waqas (A professional shooter having keen interest in arms and ammunition)

The Rifle. The AK-12 is a Russian assault commenced in 2011 by the Izhmash rifle, chambered for 5.45 × 39mm Factory (now part of the “Kalashnikov” round, designed and manufactured by Group) as a private venture. During these the Kalashnikov firm (formerly Izhmash) & years, the AK-12 rifle went through several is the latest in the family of Kalashnikov modifications. The latest one, which was rifles. The 5.45x39mm Kalashnikov AK-12 officially approved by Russian Ministry of assault rifle is a 5th generation Defence and is described below in detail, Kalashnikov-type rifle. The AK-12 project was first displayed to the general public

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during a Russian Army Expo in a Moscow replace the AK-74M in the army. Deliveries suburb in September 2016. Compared to are underway speedily. the previous version, this AK-12 is said to Russian Airborne Troops units are be more reliable, more accurate and better receiving the AK-12 on a priority basis to suited to the latest military requirements. gain operational experience with the rifle The AK-12, based on the AK-400 and various accessories. Russian Airborne prototype, was accepted into service in Troops armed with AK-12 assault rifles January 2018. First deliveries of 2,500 AK- equipped with various accessories were 12 assault rifles as part of the state defence shown at May 2019 Moscow Victory Day order began in December 2018. The Parade. AK-12 has entered service with the Russian Ministry of Defence has signed a military subdivisions of the National Guard three-year contract with Kalashnikov of Russia as well as with Special Concern for 150,000 AK-12s to be Operations Forces of the Southern Military delivered in 2019, 2020 and 2021. The District. Russian Defence Ministry is still the only customer of the AK-12, which will gradually

58 Specifications

Weight 3.3 kg (7.28 lb)

945 mm (37.2 in) Length (725 mm stock folded)

Barrel length 415 mm (16.3 in)

Cartridge 5.45×39mm

Action Gas-operated, long-stroke gas piston, rotating bolt

Rate of fire 600-700 RPM

Muzzle velocity AK-12: 880–900 m/s (2,887–2,953 ft/s)

Effective firing range 500–600 meters (547–656 yd)

Maximum firing range 800 meters

AK-12 / AK-12K

 30-rounds detachable box magazine

Feed system  60-rounds detachable casket magazine

 96-rounds detachable drum magazine

 Detachable magazines

Sights Back-up iron sights and integrated Picatinny rail for various optics

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Technical Description. Kalashnikov AK-12 and front of the receiver, forming a stable assault rifles have the traditional and rigid platform for accessories and Kalashnikov-type gas-operated action with protecting the barrel from external stresses long-stroke gas piston and rotary bolt and bending. locking. The top cover is also of a new The AK-12 is compatible with all design. It is made of steel and has a previous generations of the 5.45 mm AK- permanently attached aluminum alloy 74-type magazines, but it is normally seen picatinny rail on the top. To achieve a with a new pattern of a 30-round magazine, stable and durable platform for all types of made from polymer and equipped with optics, including relatively heavy Night small transparent windows that allow easy Vision /IR sights, the top cover has a assessment of remaining ammunition spring-loaded pin at the rear which engages supply. hook-shaped projections on the receiver. This powerful spring eliminates any play The rifle is equipped with a side- that might otherwise creep in after folding shoulder stock which is adjustable extensive field use and numerous times for length of pull. The stock has an all-steel disassembly of the gun. The bolt carrier hinge and is durable enough to withstand itself and the bolt are similar to that of extensive use of the 40mm under-barrel previous generations of AK, with the grenade launcher. Iron sights consist of a charging handle permanently fixed on the shrouded front post, mounted on the gas right side of carrier. block and an adjustable rear aperture sight, installed on the removable base using an The trigger and safety are more or upper picatinny rail. The rear sight has a less the same as before, with the addition windage adjustment knob on the right and of a 2-round burst mode. The traditional range scale marked from 1 to 8 (100 to 800 Kalashnikov-style safety/ selector lever is meters in 100-meter increments). improved with the addition of a “finger pedal,” so it can be easily operated by the The barrel is chrome-lined, as per index finger or thumb without breaking the long-standing Russian tradition, and is grip. The handguard is made from two provided with an effective removable lightweight alloy parts, upper and lower and compensator/ muzzle brake. Depending on is attached by cross-pins to the gas tube the tactical situation, a bayonet or quick-

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Kalashnikov Demo team with AK-15, AK-12, and AK-15K | Image Credits: Kalashnikov Arms

detachable sound suppressor can be A Whole New Family of Small Arms threaded on the barrel. To further increase Recognizing the potential of its new the combat effectiveness of the rifle, it can weapons, the Kalashnikov Group is set to be equipped with a 40 mm under-barrel offer a complete family of infantry small grenade launcher such as a GP-25 or GP- arms for the Russian Military, Law 34. A cleaning kit and a three-piece Enforcement Agencies and possible foreign cleaning rod are stored inside a shoulder clients. Besides this, Kalashnikov has also stock tube; the polymer pistol grip has a developed a “compact” version, the AK- removable container for small accessories 12K, which feature shorter barrel and can such as spare batteries for a red dot sight. be handy for Close Quarter Battle or as a Its top cover design proved to be more personal defense weapon. durable and better suited for long-term use of optics and night vision/ IR scopes. It is also more effective in terms of target-hit probability, although exact results are still held as confidential by Russian Ministry of Defence.

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MY 60 YEARS OF SHIKAR EXPERIENCE IN PAKISTAN By Akhtar Munir Marwat, Federal Additional Secretary (Retired), Islamabad.

I was twelve years old when I first Karim Qasuria. The entire 150 men party accompanied my father to Jhang for was lodged in school buildings as they shikar. It was a rabbit hunt with were available due to holidays, while we greyhounds. We were guests of Late utilized the Irrigation Department Rest

Mahar Sher Bharwana, a leading House. landlord and public figure of Jhang. It was It was a 20 day shikar. My father a 150 people shikar party in three buses and I stayed for only 5 days, while rest of led by us in a personal car. There were the party stayed for 20 days. At 7 am in about seventy greyhounds. Some were the morning, Amar Din, the shikar locally owned by maliks, two owned by manager would blow a whistle while my father, half a dozen from Nawab Amiir riding a horse in full shikar uniform. Mohammad Khan of Kalabagh and few Green and red flags were set up to from my brother-in-law Major Fazal ensure good line up. I would carry my 20 Bore Repeater Shotgun as I was not a rabbit hunting enthusiast. The party moving through cotton fields gave me ample opportunity to down few black partridges as they flew off. My score usually was 6 to 10 birds by the end of 20 miles walk, the remaining party score would be around 20 to 25 rabbits well chased and caught by the greyhounds. We all walked except for the shoot manager. Local dance “Marwat Attanr” would be done for a few minutes after a successful chase by the greyhounds of

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any particular owner, as only two dogs were allowed to be released as per our tradition. On spot, prizes of Rs. 50 or Rs. 100 were given to the successful pair. However, a similar amount was to be paid as “fine” by any owner who had let go of his dogs on a rabbit when it was not his turn.

After this experience, I started independent and self-reliant trips, shooting partridges and ducks, and at times, one odd goose on the Gambila In 1979, I River in Lakki Marwat. By 1975, I was a was posted as Assistant Commissioner well-groomed and principled game Hangu, District Kohat. Hangu was then a shooter. In 1974, I joined Central paradise for wildlife having areas like Superior Services of Pakistan, leaving Tora Warai, Shina Warrai, Chaghtoo, the Pakistan Army as young Captain. In Daar Malook, and several other areas February 1975, I was posted as Assistant with thousands of black and grey Political Agent, Khyber Agency. Once a partridges. These areas were declared week, I would gather about 8 to 10 of my as game sanctuaries by the then staff members and visit the Shilman area Governor General, Fazl-e-Haque. I got of Landikotal which was my opportunities for shikar trips alongside Headquarters. On the way, I would shoot Jamshed Burki (Commissioner 5 to 8 Sissi and 2 or 3 Chakors, without Peshawar), General Iqbal of Pindi Gheb, much running around the mountains. the then Vice Chief of Army Staff, in Pindi Sissi and Chakors were found in Gheb area as guests of Malik Iqbal abundance in those days. We used to Khunda. At that time I carried my prized drive on the katcha track to Shilman and gun, a James Purdey, worth about Rs 2 Afghan border, and usually got a shot on crore, gifted to me by my brother-in-law

the roadside every 20 minutes or so. Nawabzada Mohammad Shah Khan, Nawab of Dir State. I later purchased and

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fruit orchard enthusiast, was our shoot in charge and coordinator for all shoots in Dera Ismail Khan District. He would organize camping, ration supplies, boats for transportation from camp to shooting trenches (morcha), location of each Shot gunning along Chashma Barrage member morcha, and ensured full

used AYA 116 double barrel shot gun for discipline and dress regulation during the

all shoots, as it was meant for rough shoot. Mara was occasionally shooting in water and sand. accompanied by his son Kashif Mara. Our routine shooting trip was of two In 1981, while appointed as nights and three days. With 4 to 5 guns, Political Agent Bajaur, I organized my our score used to be around 50 to 70 shooting party properly. On my visit to the ducks during the entire shoot. We cooked USA, I got each of my party members a the older bag and carried along the latest camouflaged outfit, for duck shoot as well ones in the icebox. But at no occasion did as for partridge shoot. I ensured we ever go beyond 76 with 5 guns in two uniformity, adherence to the principles of days’ shoot. fair shooting, and other ethics. We maintained a maximum limit of 7 From 2014 onwards, the migrating partridges per gun, more than this was birds’ routes took a very strange twist; the considered unethical. We ensured to migration into Pakistan took the old route shoot during the permissible period across Balochistan up to Zhob. But Zhob without violation and to shoot in restricted onwards, down east, it turned southwest areas under proper license and permission of the Wildlife Department.

From 1982 till 2012, we regularly visited Chashma Barrage, Dera Ismail Khan, for duck shoot. We camped on the outskirts and cooked our meals. Malik Khuda Bakhsh Mara, a contractor and

65 A well camouflaged trench

towards Sibi, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, and self-sufficient in all respects. We Sukkur, Nawabshah, and Karachi. made it a point to always take on board Resultantly all shikaris/ shooting parties some local chiefs for purpose of security faced embarrassment visiting Dera and respect in far-flung areas, although Ismail Khan for the duck, quail, geese we always traveled with armed guards. and even partridges. The reason for this Another principle was to use four-wheel- change of migration route was illegal and drive vehicles to ensure that we never got unprincipled mass shooting by the locals bogged down in any wilderness. We living across the path of migration. Few camped in shikar areas with the consent shooters know the consequences of of the local elders and kept away from firing at long range where chances of villages, but we always welcomed the missing the bird are quite high. The bird, locals whenever they made a social call

even if hit, will not be bagged by the same on us. shooter as it would fall in the river miles With the change of migration away. Secondly, if the duck is missed, it pattern and route, my party started will remember that spot where it was fired visiting Zhob once a year for quail upon for three years and will avoid that shooting. In Dera Ismail Khan, since 90’s area. I, therefore, ensured that we sat at our score with 4 to 5 guns used to be 50 least 4 to 5 guns in one trench, rather to 60 flying shots per day. I never netted than splitting into 3 trenches. This ensures good fire control and everyone getting a good opportunity of firing.

By then I had procured a motorized rubber boat from Lahore Hunting team with few water fords that still I use and enjoy. My party kept itself independent

Hunting Team 66

quail as it is devastating for the migratory should be made to preserve those bird. I used to ask local parties who had species. As Commissioner Malakand deployed nets in the area as to how many and as Secretary Kashmir Affairs and birds they would net. The number of birds Northern Areas, I was an advocate for they declared would then be multiplied by community-based preservation of the market rate, and I would pay them in wildlife. Much against my desire, but cash on condition that my party will shoot under severe pressure from my party, my quail in his area, but without netting. A request for geese shoot on Head Marala good shooter normally has a 70 to 75 in 2016 was accepted. We reached the percent score in flying shot. This ensures place on time and stayed the night. In the 30 percent to escape unhurt, while 95 morning, all 5 guns were accommodated percent of the entire flock escapes as in a single trench, with a representative well. This saves the birds in general. of wildlife watching over us for a score of Zhob, however, offered a much better 3 geese per gun. The guide cautioned us opportunity and our 5 guns score per day that the first bird will arrive at 0520 hours. went up to 150 flying shots, while the Shikar Buddies camp members who deployed nets could fetch 200 to 300 birds per day.

With reduction in numbers of partridges, quails and ducks in Khyber Pakhtunkhawa, we had to divert our attention to other areas and other birds. Geese were known to be in abundance in the Pakistan- India border areas. Parra deer, wild deer (Sambar), and nilgai (blue bull) were also major attractions for shoot parties. After shooting my first deer in Dina, Jehlum District, in the year 1972, I realized that big game was not my thing. They are rare and threatened in many cases. Therefore, dedicated efforts

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Well, that was taken for as a joke.  If you miss the duck or geese, it will Surprisingly, exactly at 0519 hours, a pair remember that fire and never return of geese appeared, while coming into for 3 years. range I was given the honour to shoot  Firing at out of range bird is only first. With number 4 super cartridge 12 scaring them off much the way Bore and AYA 116 Double-Barrel gun, I aviation employee fire blank rounds downed both birds. That was enough; I on the airport to scare away kites handed over the rest to my party who and crows from the line of approach

completed their score too. of an aircraft.  Never use nets for quail and My party was overjoyed with partridges. Nets will finish them in 5 shoot. However, we were later informed years, while flying shots will not that certain parties had been shooting affect them in a hundred years. hundreds of geese in other areas secretly. That news was quite disturbing. I am grateful to my shikar party We need to understand the entire and camp organizer/ Commander Kashif philosophy of shooting birds or wild Mara for meticulous arrangements of game. Shikar trip should be a wholesome shooting camp, maintaining discipline experience where the feelings of while shooting, and providing all discipline, enjoyment, excitement and necessities of life during our stay in the appreciation of the balance of nature

should be instigated in the participants.

There are just a few principles to follow, which will ensure birds for all as a hobby but not for meat:-

 Don’t ever fire at a bird out of range. If you hit it will be injured and land miles away where you cannot reach or see.

Team after another successful hunting trip

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camp. Kashif Mara is a true shikari SHOOTING PARTY (hunter). He arranges shoot for the true . Dr. Gul Rehman Marwat. purpose of the outing and not for meat. . Professor Siffatullah, Lakki Degree This article has been written to College. thank the following people who have . Saif Ur Rehman (Late), Nephew. stood by me through thick and thin, to . Fatehullah Khan Mian Khel. support wildlife preservation and to . Kashif Mara alias Commander. communicate to general masses the . Malik Khuda Bakhsh Mara, Patron. ethics and code of conduct of small game . Haji Saadullah Marwat, Gunman. shooting, in such a manner that is . Khan Malook Marwat, Gunman. allowed by the government, rules & . Rashid Anwar Marwat, Gunman. regulations and ethics of hunting. . Taj Mohammad, Driver. . Nazir, Dera Ismail Khan, Gunman. Please watch on YouTube,” Marwat . Mitha, Camp Supporter. boating”. . Misri, Camp Cook. Also, watch “Marwat flight”. . Ghaada, Camp Helper.

A small bag but great sport

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By Ibrar (Wildlife Department, HUNTING Bahawalpur) ETHICS AND REGULATIONS

of wounded game. The code demanded that a hunter who wounded an animal must unting is a sport that track it down and kill it. Hunters who involves seeking, pursuing consider themselves sportsmen uphold the H and killing of wild animals code. and birds. In early days of human race, The introduction of rifles greatly hunting was a necessity providing not only increased the hunter’s ability to kill at long food but also clothing and material for tools distances and in larger numbers. from bones, horns and hooves. Hunting as Improvement in range, accuracy and a sport was only reserved for those who rapidity of fire further ensured the kill. had both leisure and wealth. The idea of Eventually, hunters adopted additional game preservation arose in feudal times conventions, generally unwritten but when the right to hunt became attached to sometimes included in game laws, to limit the ownership of land. A distinction their means of destruction. For example, in between hunting for sport and hunting for Great Britain and many other countries, the food was made earlier and a strict code of pump gun or repeater is not accepted as a behavior was developed. A gentleman sporting weapon. The guns used for taking game birds for recreation did so with hunting should be less efficient than a a falcon whereas a fowler, who earned a double-barreled shotgun. This gun compels living by selling the birds in market, used a pause after two shots, either to reload or nets. From this distinction arose the change gun, thus allowing the quarry a complex norm of fair play for the hunted. chance to get out of range. Those hunting for amusement limited their While the hunter’s ability to kill was means to give the quarry a fair chance to increased, such conventions kept the actual escape and to avoid unnecessary suffering kill under control. In subsequent

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paragraphs, codes, safety ethics, precautions and general requirements/ rules will be elaborated especially for novice hunters. It is pertinent to highlight that data given below is mostly taken from the Government of Punjab, Wildlife Department. General Hunting Regulations

 License Registration: Hunting, by all means, including air gun shooting To shoot the game animal on public requires a shooting license. Get your o roads. shooting license renewed before its  expiry date, i.e. 31st December of every Hunting Parties: It is unlawful to hunt in year. A retainer shall not be entitled to a party of more than three guns while shoot any game animal unless he is in hunting partridges. the possession of a valid shooting  Spotlighting Wildlife: It is unlawful to license in his name. Hunting in game hunt wildlife with a spotlight or any reserves requires a special hunting artificial light at night. permit.  Game Reserves: Game reserves are protected areas where hunting is  Timings and Weekday Hunting: allowed after obtaining a special hunting Hunting is only allowed from sunrise till permit. sunset except for ducks. It is unlawful to  Wildlife Sanctuaries and National hunt on any day other than a Sunday Parks: In all protected areas, hunting is during the season. completely prohibited to provide an  Road Hunting. It is unlawful:- environment to all wildlife and its habitat. It is unlawful to possess a loaded o To hunt from a vehicle at any time, be it stationary or moving. firearm at anytime, or any firearm that is uncased, and shall be treated as illegal o If firearms are uncased at any time in a vehicle. and punishable by law.

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 Additional Regulations and o Do not shoot sitters. Do not shoot Restrictions: Sportsmen should always from vehicles. Enjoy the fair chase, become familiar with rules and challenges and sporting elements regulations in force at particular areas in hunting instead of just killing for where they intend to hunt. Seeking collecting meat.

guidance from the Wildlife Department o Hunting is a game of chance, if you and locals for a specific area whether it miss, take it easy.

falls under open hunting grounds or a o Know your limitations and those of reserve is the responsibility of the your rifle and shoot within range. If hunter. you are not reasonably sure of a  Restriction of Hunting: No person clean kill, don’t shoot. Shooting at shall hunt any wild animal utilizing a pre- the quarry is not a competition. positioned gun, spear, gun trap, o Do not take shots which result in explosive, projectile, bomb, grenade, birds falling where you cannot baited hook, net or any other trap, an retrieve them, like deep water or automatic or a service weapon or dense bush. It is negligent and ammunition used by Law Enforcement almost sinful for a hunter not to Agencies or any other force, or utilize make a reasonable effort to any drug or chemical substance likely to retrieve any game or wildlife they anesthetize, paralyze, stupefy or render may have killed or wounded. incapable any wild animal, whether partly or totally, through a projectile or otherwise.  Code of Practice & Hunting Ethics

o Follow the bag limits. Wanton hunting today will frustrate you tomorrow. Save the precious wildlife for your future and the coming generations.

o Hunting in the breeding season is a sin, let wildlife breed peacefully.

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o Improve your shooting skills by clay o It is unethical to operate a vehicle pigeon shooting. Bad shooting in unharnessed fields or private results in wastage of wildlife as a property without seeking prior wounded game escapes and dies permission from the owner. It is later on. also impolite to leave gates or

o Do not unnecessarily kill non-game fences open and to destroy or species. Every animal/bird has a damage fences.

role in our eco-system and helps in o Games should also have a fair maintaining the balance of nature. chance. Plug your shotgun

o Learn about the wildlife and its capacity to a maximum of two shot habitat. You should be able to shells.

identify the birds, especially duck o Drugs/alcohol and guns do not go species. Also, the indiscriminate together.

killing of females, young ones and o Behave in a gentleman way that banned species should be avoided brings no dishonor to the hunter, at any cost. the hunted or the environment.

o Show respect to hunted  Firearms and Hunting Safety animals/birds and display game o Choose Safe and Ethical bag respectfully in your Hunting Companions: Know photographs. where they are at all times. Hunt

o Keep the environment clean. Do defensively and be on the alert. not leave garbage, bottles, plastic bags and fired shells and cartridges in the hunting field which in turn pollute the environment.

o Do not hunt, track or chase wildlife near any occupied residence, industrial or commercial building, farmhouse/ farm building, school/ playground, around hospitals or in graveyards.

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o Practice Courtesy and Self- and place it through the fence Control at all Times: Observe all before you go over or under.

written and unwritten rules of o Never Transport a Loaded safety. Good hunting habits Firearm in a Vehicle: It could prevent accidents. end in serious injury or death. o Always be aware of the o Keep the Safety ON until the direction in which the muzzle of Instant you Shoot: The chance of your shotgun is pointing and injury is considerably reduced. never point it in an unsafe Never touch the trigger until you direction: The muzzle should want to fire.

always be either skywards or o Hold onto the Gun: Never lean a towards the ground. Whenever gun against a tree or vehicle. you shoot, make sure you know Place it on a flat surface, always where the shot will end up before unloaded. you touch the trigger. o Never Cross a Fence with a Loaded Firearm: Always unload it

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A Father’s Advice Poet Mark Beaufoy has beautifully immortalized the necessity of safe gun handling in the form of an advice from a father to his son.

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