The side-by-side exclusive shoots, like the Southern and the Vintagers' always attract a particular crowd and have a vibe that is quite different from the usual competitions.

I have run shoots (driven pheasant) in the UK for a little group of hammer gun shooters for a number of years and this year we are taking a small group of hammer gun shooters only to Africa for a bird safari.

It makes a change to be shooting with like minded people at a different pace. I like the shared interest and the similar approach to the shooting. In the same way, I have friends who shoot muzzle loaders on driven pheasant days (two Guns to a peg). This also works well and is a bit out of the ordinary.

I'd be interested to know if similar groups operate in other countries and for other shooting contexts. Anyone have any interesting experiences to share?