Scaling down his kit and travelling light enabled Mat to move unburdened through the trees
Modern technology can make a huge difference to your airgun shooting, but it can also be a hindrance. I have lost count of the number of times that I’ve had a hunting session ruined by over-sophisticated equipment which has either failed or proven too complicated to be enjoyable to use.
Of course, there is no denying that hi-tech gear can and often does improve our success rate in the field, and I count electronic airguns, laser rangefinders and infrared night vision optics among the cutting-edge kit in my regular line-up. The important thing to remember, though, is that clever gadgets will never make up for gaps in your basic hunting skills. They can help to boost your strike rate, but only when combined with good fieldcraft and an understanding of the habits and behaviour of your quarry - something that can take years to acquire. The simple fact is that you can’t just buy your way out of a problem when it comes to airgun hunting. Knowledge and experience are the key to filling your game bag, and are infinitely more valuable than any piece of sophisticated electronic gear.