New falconry book.

[Pete Smith]

New book out late spring 2007. A detailed examination of both long & shortwings and how to exploit their potential. Has a strong slant towards imprints [Longwings & Accips]. Assumes a working knowledge of current falconry techniques & technology.
Features contributions & interviews with some of the best falconers in the world today.

[Dave Whitt]

Lovley looking Gyr x Merlin, :)

[Barbary Boy]

why has this been posted again? i still want one signed and discounted ?

[StoopDoggyDogg]

whose mike calvin ????




New book out late spring 2007. A detailed examination of both long & shortwings and how to exploit their potential. Has a strong slant towards imprints [Longwings & Accips]. Assumes a working knowledge of current falconry techniques & technology.
Features contributions & interviews with some of the best falconers in the world today.

[Falconry Equipment International]

Hal's keeper

[Berkut]

I knew Mike when he first started out.He lives on the reputation of one bird.
He upset a lot of friends with his attitude by thinking he was suddenly above them. He now tries to be mentioned in one form or another in every possible publication he can manage in order to make a name for himself.

[Barbary Boy]

hes not alone then!

[Pete Smith]

"Who's Mike Calvin?"
An excellent falconer....I approached Mike, he wasnt seeking additional fame.
Regarding Hal & other birds he's trained he didnt need to promote their performance that was done by others.....Seems a bit like "sour-grapes" berkut.
Rather than building a reputation by slagging him off, how about doing it the good old way and expand on YOUR amazing falconry career......were all waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Berkut]

"Who's Mike Calvin?"
An excellent falconer....I approached Mike, he wasnt seeking additional fame.
Regarding Hal & other birds he's trained he didnt need to promote their performance that was done by others.....Seems a bit like "sour-grapes" berkut.
Rather than building a reputation by slagging him off, how about doing it the good old way and expand on YOUR amazing falconry career......were all waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Pete,
I don,t need to or intend to expand on my falconry career,which is quite extensive as it happens, and no ,it is not sour grapes.You just need to speak to a number of his friends or x-friends ,including me and they will tell you exactly what I am talking about.If I am truthful ,my eyes lit up when I saw your book ,as I am aware of your reputation,but the enthusiasm left me as soon as I saw the other name which we speak of.
Regards.

[KiteTrainer]

"Who's Mike Calvin?"
An excellent falconer....I approached Mike, he wasnt seeking additional fame.
Regarding Hal & other birds he's trained he didnt need to promote their performance that was done by others.....Seems a bit like "sour-grapes" berkut.
Rather than building a reputation by slagging him off, how about doing it the good old way and expand on YOUR amazing falconry career......were all waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have also flown with mike Calvin and have to say I agree with Berkut

[KiteTrainer]

I am sure your book will be an excellent read, but as say I have flown birds with Mike on threee occasions one on his moor at Newcastlon where on the third or was it the fourth flight of his female peregrine surprisingly enough it had still not attained a pitch worth loking at. A similar scenarion occasion at St Marys Loch.
I have no axe to grind I have just seen better and more knowlegable Falconers

[PeregrinesUK]

Where will the book be sold from and do we have a price yet? should be an interesting read. Mike

[Jastreb]

I want a book!!!! Price+shiping to Croatia please?

Cheers Viktor

[Ovambo]

Eagerly waiting price of book and from where......

[KiteTrainer]

"Who's Mike Calvin?"
An excellent falconer....I approached Mike, he wasnt seeking additional fame.
Regarding Hal & other birds he's trained he didnt need to promote their performance that was done by others.....Seems a bit like "sour-grapes" berkut.
Rather than building a reputation by slagging him off, how about doing it the good old way and expand on YOUR amazing falconry career......were all waiting!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I take it you don't read the forum:lol:

[Biber]

The book onley cme out in USA orin Europe two???? :confused:

[Joey]

there are poeple out there that are better than the falconers on the book but they just dont want to be sort of famous in the falconry world lets just everyone enjoy there sport i bet some of the people on this forum could write a book as good or even better than that book it just there famous so they will get more attention. to say berkut wrote a book i would buy the mans full of knowlegde like many are on here.
why dont a few forum menbers write a book?




joey

[Pete Smith]

Hi Mike,
Price will around £30. I will sell direct initially,...same method as Goshawk Vid.
Will go through a distributor later.
Will be published in the UK, late spring 2007.[Will post something nearer the date].
Pete.

[PeregrinesUK]

Thanks for the info Pete, if theres a waiting list add my name to it ill pm you my details. Mike

[Merger]

I met Mike in Cumbria, about when he first started,, and have seen him a few times over the years, at various meets etc, has flown a couple pf exceptional falcons, over the years, at the right places, at the right times I suppose, I find him an interesting, passionate falconer like so many of us, one thing I will say on his behalf, is he is no messer, and will always put in huge ammounts of human resources, to fly any bird in his hands,, without dissputing what a few others have said, im very much, speak as you find,, and I find him an allright guy,name dropping aside, he will be found at many field meets again this year, and his bird, whatever hes flying will usally go well...

[Berkut]

I met Mike in Cumbria, about when he first started,, and have seen him a few times over the years, at various meets etc, has flown a couple pf exceptional falcons, over the years, at the right places, at the right times I suppose, I find him an interesting, passionate falconer like so many of us, one thing I will say on his behalf, is he is no messer, and will always put in huge ammounts of human resources, to fly any bird in his hands,, without dissputing what a few others have said, im very much, speak as you find,, and I find him an allright guy,name dropping aside, he will be found at many field meets again this year, and his bird, whatever hes flying will usally go well...

Kevin,
I also met Mike when he was relatively new to the falconry. I have a couple of photographs of me,Mike,my brother and my son,along with a cadge of peregrines. At that time I would have called him a good friend and I find it sad how things turn out some times. He became involved with a certain circle of people and started to look down his nose at people like me. I am no messer and put huge amounts of time and effort into my falconry,however I don,t forget my roots or those who have helped me along the way and never look down my nose at anyone. There are a couple of instances which would make your toes curl. I like a good read, but knowing what I know,some of his articles make me ready to spew. Anyway I am not normally one for personal attacks but sometimes when a subject comes up that one way or another is close to my heart I cannot help but voice my opinion.
All the best,
Neil.

[CJTaylor]

Neil, i know ex where your coming from.I live 7 miles from m.calvin and unfortunatly was one of a few people insrumental in him coming into the sport,when he joined our small club. I was on a field meet in about 94 when he made his first kill, a rabbit with one of our groups redtails, at this time he hab already had 3 birds of his own ?,His handleling of birds certainly in the early years was poor to say the least and only slightly better than his handling of dogs.HE even organised his own meet with merlins on a local golf course and reserve,without might i add the owners permission. unfortunatly members of the R.S.P.B. where bird watching and witnessed the pipit and lark hunting, this made headline news locally in the papers etc there was a real uproar,the article was forwarded at the time to the falconers mag as a warning to all , other things i could say would make your toes curl, but most people who dont know him that well are taken in by his manner.I wil confess he does seam to of had one good bird, so what, he was once refused the sale of a redtail by a prof falconer for trying to move it with his foot. To sum up cumbria has approx 35 active falconers none of which have any time for the guy, which is why he practices in other counties.

[CJTaylor]

I met Mike in Cumbria, about when he first started,, and have seen him a few times over the years, at various meets etc, has flown a couple pf exceptional falcons, over the years, at the right places, at the right times I suppose, I find him an interesting, passionate falconer like so many of us, one thing I will say on his behalf, is he is no messer, and will always put in huge ammounts of human resources, to fly any bird in his hands,, without dissputing what a few others have said, im very much, speak as you find,, and I find him an allright guy,name dropping aside, he will be found at many field meets again this year, and his bird, whatever hes flying will usally go well...
Kev how you doin mate ,THEM DOGS STILL GOIN WELL; just wanted to add i agree you take people as you find, but we both know where neil is coming from, dont we kev ???REMEMBER.

[Merger]

Kevin,
I also met Mike when he was relatively new to the falconry. I have a couple of photographs of me,Mike,my brother and my son,along with a cadge of peregrines. At that time I would have called him a good friend and I find it sad how things turn out some times. He became involved with a certain circle of people and started to look down his nose at people like me. I am no messer and put huge amounts of time and effort into my falconry,however I don,t forget my roots or those who have helped me along the way and never look down my nose at anyone. There are a couple of instances which would make your toes curl. I like a good read, but knowing what I know,some of his articles make me ready to spew. Anyway I am not normally one for personal attacks but sometimes when a subject comes up that one way or another is close to my heart I cannot help but voice my opinion.
All the best,
Neil.I can understand, this completely, Ill only be sh*t on once as well! he always comes looking for me if Im about at some meet, to shake hands and have a chat so perhaps, im being a little near sided, or blinkered, hes not a local falconer, so I see him very periodically, and as I said, speak as I find, in my short time In Cumbria, I met very few falconers, but the few I met were very good, including one I remet at woodhall, Nick Curry,, I know this guys birds do fly very well, because I flew with him a couple of times, and yourself Colin, anyway I look forward to having a read of the new book, when its out :yawinkle:

[KiteTrainer]

Neil, i know ex where your coming from.I live 7 miles from m.calvin and unfortunatly was one of a few people insrumental in him coming into the sport,when he joined our small club. I was on a field meet in about 94 when he made his first kill, a rabbit with one of our groups redtails, at this time he hab already had 3 birds of his own ?,His handleling of birds certainly in the early years was poor to say the least and only slightly better than his handling of dogs.HE even organised his own meet with merlins on a local golf course and reserve,without might i add the owners permission. unfortunatly members of the R.S.P.B. where bird watching and witnessed the pipit and lark hunting, this made headline news locally in the papers etc there was a real uproar,the article was forwarded at the time to the falconers mag as a warning to all , other things i could say would make your toes curl, but most people who dont know him that well are taken in by his manner.I wil confess he does seam to of had one good bird, so what, he was once refused the sale of a redtail by a prof falconer for trying to move it with his foot. To sum up cumbria has approx 35 active falconers none of which have any time for the guy, which is why he practices in other counties.

Sour grapes for Berkut-Maybe not

[StoopDoggyDogg]

Hi Pete
Is this book based on any proven methods regarding longwings or is it an examination of different falconers training techniques. I understand there is no right way and no wrong way, it is a case of whatever works, i'm not having a pop, i'm just interested.
I've experimented with feeding before a flight to provide the bird with dietary energy, because small birds apparently find it difficult to use fat reserves as flying energy. Is there anything of interest down those lines in your book.


Cheers Steve








New book out late spring 2007. A detailed examination of both long & shortwings and how to exploit their potential. Has a strong slant towards imprints [Longwings & Accips]. Assumes a working knowledge of current falconry techniques & technology.
Features contributions & interviews with some of the best falconers in the world today.

[Pete Smith]

"Hi Pete
Is this book based on any proven methods regarding longwings or is it an examination of different falconers training techniques. I understand there is no right way and no wrong way, it is a case of whatever works, i'm not having a pop, i'm just interested.
I've experimented with feeding before a flight to provide the bird with dietary energy, because small birds apparently find it difficult to use fat reserves as flying energy. Is there anything of interest down those lines in your book."


Having learnt from Mike McDermott I'm reluctant to label a partiqular method or system.....like you say, what works-works. Ive experimented "Alot" with shortwings and smaller longwings, not always succesfully, this has been documented in the book, what was succesfull...what wasnt & more importantly why. As for proven methods....I could write a specification for the perfect Long & Shortwing from "MY" perspective doesn't mean it would suit everyone.

[Hound]

wish you well on your book but why advertise it now when it wont be for sale untill lat spring or am i missing some thing

[Yeoman]

Kevin,
I also met Mike when he was relatively new to the falconry. I have a couple of photographs of me,Mike,my brother and my son,along with a cadge of peregrines. At that time I would have called him a good friend and I find it sad how things turn out some times. He became involved with a certain circle of people and started to look down his nose at people like me. I am no messer and put huge amounts of time and effort into my falconry,however I don,t forget my roots or those who have helped me along the way and never look down my nose at anyone. There are a couple of instances which would make your toes curl. I like a good read, but knowing what I know,some of his articles make me ready to spew. Anyway I am not normally one for personal attacks but sometimes when a subject comes up that one way or another is close to my heart I cannot help but voice my opinion.
All the best,
Neil.
been on micks moor 3 times at newcastleton and at first i was taken in by his charm after being warned by gary worley and his mate bryce about him and i have seen him do things that would make your toes curl .oh and mick if you read this ive still got vid footage of you and your methods bet there not in the book:lol:hal was agood bird and and he is an average falconer, you want to give your book some cred pete get steven franks name on it now there is a legend

[KiteTrainer]

been on micks moor 3 times at newcastleton and at first i was taken in by his charm after being warned by gary worley and his mate bryce about him and i have seen him do things that would make your toes curl .oh and mick if you read this ive still got vid footage of you and your methods bet there not in the book:lol:hal was agood bird and and he is an average falconer, you want to give your book some cred pete get steven franks name on it now there is a legendre

Couldn't agree more,

[Ben C]

I want a book!!!! Price+shiping to Croatia please?

Cheers Viktor

Agreed..........

[Alf]

Neil I have met Mike once on field meet he was holding for some people he was trying to impress early in the season and needed falconers who were flying at the time to come and show these quests the art of falconry. He wasn’t flying a falcon at the time but asked other falconers to show these people the art of grouse hawking but as most had only just pulled birds out from the moult or had young birds like myself the day didn’t quite work out the way it was planned or hoped!
Same guy I couldn’t say I liked or disliked cant for the life of me comment but first impression and all that.
I have also met Nick Curry and found the same kid a generally knowledgeable bloke taking in and digesting what others have to say a nice polite and considerate lad.
I would be interested in reading this book that has been put together if not for anything else other than for what they have to say.
I wish them luck with it, can’t be easy putting your reputation on the line with print. Alf.



Kevin,
I also met Mike when he was relatively new to the falconry. I have a couple of photographs of me,Mike,my brother and my son,along with a cadge of peregrines. At that time I would have called him a good friend and I find it sad how things turn out some times. He became involved with a certain circle of people and started to look down his nose at people like me. I am no messer and put huge amounts of time and effort into my falconry,however I don,t forget my roots or those who have helped me along the way and never look down my nose at anyone. There are a couple of instances which would make your toes curl. I like a good read, but knowing what I know,some of his articles make me ready to spew. Anyway I am not normally one for personal attacks but sometimes when a subject comes up that one way or another is close to my heart I cannot help but voice my opinion.
All the best,
Neil.

[CJTaylor]

Pete,thanks for your pm, mate. havent the bottle to accept a reply?,this aint no north south issue,just we have had time to suss him out,thats why he flys south, you people will see it too in time, what is real sad is people are trying to help you, surley every one cant be wrong? One day i guaruntee you will end up with a little egg on face. matter closed.Good luck.

[DeadDogs]

Colins 100% correct MC is a "chancer" of the highest order.

[Matthew Patching]

Like we need another falconry book.

Well seriously spaeking from experience, falconry books are a waste of time, they may give you a few hours reading about other peoples birds and other peoples experiences but they tell you naff all about the bird that is sat on your fist.

I will eat my words only when a book or 'DVD' comes out that tells me how to train my bird, not somone elses!

It deosnt realy matter whos name is on the book you could have fredderick II participating and they still wouldnt tell you how to manage your bird!

[OutFlying]

Good luck with the book Pete, I'm sure it will have some interesting and original methods described not found in previous works of others.

Jim.

[Berkut]

Like we need another falconry book.

Well seriously spaeking from experience, falconry books are a waste of time, they may give you a few hours reading about other peoples birds and other peoples experiences but they tell you naff all about the bird that is sat on your fist.

I will eat my words only when a book or 'DVD' comes out that tells me how to train my bird, not somone elses!

It deosnt realy matter whos name is on the book you could have fredderick II participating and they still wouldnt tell you how to manage your bird!

A valid point Matt,but when you see someone rated as one of the leading falconers in the world and they are far from that, it is enough to make your blood boil.

[Matthew Patching]

A valid point Matt,but when you see someone rated as one of the leading falconers in the world and they are far from that, it is enough to make your blood boil.

I have never heard of him, good or bad! That said I have at least heard of or met most of what I would term 'leading falconers in britain' and if I have never heard of him then what deos that tell you.

I have asked around a few freinds and they have told me a few stories on the fone over the last 24 hrs, but I cant possibly print all of them, there may be minors viewing this thread and the language used is diabolical!

[CJTaylor]

Dont worry neil, i feel the fact hes in the booktells you something, it will still sell, but he will certainly affect sales,its so supprising i first got to here about this thred via phone?

[Mary Quite Contrary]

pm me pete when you are ready to sell?

[Dean]

There are loads of articles written by falconers who have finally made a decent gamehawk, calvin wasnt the first and will surely not be the last! Who wants to be a famous falconer,footballer,popstar,filmstar yes,think of all that dollar and fanny! Petes a great lad,good crack,and is as fine a falconer as any!:yawinkle:

[GameHawker]

There are loads of articles written by falconers who have finally made a decent gamehawk, calvin wasnt the first and will surely not be the last! who wants to be a famous falconer,footballer,popstar,filmstar yes,think of all that dollar and fanny! Petes a great lad,good crack,and is as fine a falconer as any!:yawinkle:

Dean

I agree with you Pete is not a bad bloke but that Chris Soans is a bit of an arse.:lol:

Good luck with the book Pete just another falconry book to keep the door's open in the house.

Carl

[CJTaylor]

Lads no ones havin a go at pete, infact quite the reverse,any one who is duped must have alittle anger ,and i think weather he wants to admit or not,its quite obvious from this thread and all the pms myself and others have had about calvin from lads who want to remain annon,that he isnt what pete first thought he was,have u ever known anyone upset as many people in diff ways,id say not, any how i feel pete is the one who he will eventually upset the most,calvins underhanded tricks are stuff of legend,and that will cost him in the end.I dont think he will ever retort to this as too many lads up here know the real calvin,this he also knows.

[JFSeaman]

... Assumes a working knowledge of current falconry techniques & technology.
...

If you have to have then knowledge from somewhere else, then why would you need it?

If you want writing by the 'contributors' buy their books.

[OutFlying]

If you have to have then knowledge from somewhere else, then why would you need it?

If you want writing by the 'contributors' buy their books.


It simply means "you won't find a diagram of a falconers knot" or "picture of a harris hawk on a creance".

ie not a beginners book,

Jim.

[Dean]

Someday it would be fresh to publish a book on my training regimes with long/shortwings,unfortunately so basic the back of a postage stamp would suffice,if truthfull,banned in the uk!:yawinkle:

[Falcons7]

Just wonderd Pete ,who did the article on imprint falcons ??



New book out late spring 2007. A detailed examination of both long & shortwings and how to exploit their potential. Has a strong slant towards imprints [Longwings & Accips]. Assumes a working knowledge of current falconry techniques & technology.
Features contributions & interviews with some of the best falconers in the world today.

[Pete Smith]

Hi Jeff,
The imprinting sections [Long & shortwing] are based on rearing and training of my and my friends birds over the past 10-12yrs. [Have tried to expand on what worked...what did'nt & why], no 10 commandments just what Ive found to be succesfull.
Pete.

[Falcons7]

Cheers Pete ,what were the imprints ,perlins ,peregrines ,mixture ??




Hi Jeff,
The imprinting sections [Long & shortwing] are based on rearing and training of my and my friends birds over the past 10-12yrs. [Have tried to expand on what worked...what did'nt & why], no 10 commandments just what Ive found to be succesfull.
Pete.

[Pete Smith]

Hi Jeff,
Of the longwings [Mine] all have been small hybrids [Perlins] & a male Barbary at present. Friends birds have been mainly small hybrids Perlin..Gyrlin + a couple of larger Peregrine hybrids. Accips discussed are predominantly Goshawks, Mike Mcd's chapter is focused on Coopers.
Tim Wagners chapter looks at hunting Sand Grouse in SA with Peregrines and Gyr/ Peregrines [Tim favors kite trained passage Peregrines & smaller male Gyr/ Peregrines].
Pete.

[Yeoman]

There are loads of articles written by falconers who have finally made a decent gamehawk, calvin wasnt the first and will surely not be the last! Who the **** wants to be a famous falconer,footballer,popstar,filmstar yes,think of all that dollar and fanny! Petes a great lad,good crack,and is as fine a falconer as any!:yawinkle:

have you seen the bfc long wing dvd ,by chris southern the creeping little t***s in that(CALVIN)

[Berkut]

have you seen the bfc long wing dvd ,by chris southern the creeping little t***s in that(CALVIN)

Does he have his Robin Hood felt hat on following another visit to John Norris of Penrith for some clobber.?

[CJTaylor]

Ive a feeling that this book is gonna role of the shelf [not], dont we all ,like pete want to be like calvin? and gain from the master?. ps the book dosent come out on april the first does it?

[BrianM]

having seen pete flying a perlin at larks ,, all i can say is reserve me a copy mate:supz:

[CJTaylor]

having seen pete flying a perlin at larks ,, all i can say is reserve me a copy mate:supz:

No ones doubting pete, mate he aint the issue ,ive no reason to doubt the guy.

[KiteTrainer]

having seen pete flying a perlin at larks ,, all i can say is reserve me a copy mate:supz:


I am sure Pete is a very capable falconer and no one is doubting that. The trouble is Calvin is not the expert he purports to be and appears to be universally Loathed by people who have been taken in by him originally, and then find him flying birds over their ground. Unfortunately Pete has not been Privy to his background or lack of it. You cannot make a name for yourself riding on Steven Franks shirt tales.............................or can you?

[Berkut]

I am sure Pete is a very capable falconer and no one is doubting that. The trouble is Calvin is not the expert he purports to be and appears to be universally Loathed by people who have been taken in by him originally, and then find him flying birds over their ground. Unfortunately Pete has not been Privy to his background or lack of it. You cannot make a name for yourself riding on Steven Franks shirt tales.............................or can you?

Very well put KT and you can,t argue with that.

[Alf]

Neil I don’t know Mike, only met him once although from the sounds of it he seems to has upset a few falconers on this list but really should they all be slagging the kid off on an open forum when he is not here to defend himself?
Maybe Pete could invite him to the list to see what he has to say?????? Alf


Very well put KT and you can,t argue with that.

[KiteTrainer]

Neil I don’t know Mike, only met him once although from the sounds of it he seems to has upset a few falconers on this list but really should they all be slagging the kid off on an open forum when he is not here to defend himself?
Maybe Pete could invite him to the list to see what he has to say?????? Alf

I will ask only one question...................., who is the common denominator

No smoke without fire as they say

[TiercelJim]

Neil I don’t know Mike, only met him once although from the sounds of it he seems to has upset a few falconers on this list but really should they all be slagging the kid off on an open forum when he is not here to defend himself?
Maybe Pete could invite him to the list to see what he has to say?????? Alf

they cant he died this morning......found with his ears burnt off on some ground in cumbria.

[Alf]

It seems to point in his direction but! Two sides to every story and all that.
Personally I don’t talk about or call people behind there backs I will do it to there face though!. If Mike is as he is and needs to be slated then that’s fare enough, but is an open form the place to do it? .



I will ask only one question...................., who is the common denominator

No smoke without fire as they say

[Dean]

Dont know calvin personally,what i would ask the slaters is.....can the guy fly a gamehawk as good as any? If not,why not? If yes, out of interest the book should be worth a read! The way its going this book could end up in w h smiths!:yawinkle:

[KiteTrainer]

It seems to point in his direction but! Two sides to every story and all that.
Personally I don’t talk about or call people behind there backs I will do it to there face though!. If Mike is as he is and needs to be slated then that’s fare enough, but is an open form the place to do it? .

Yep, I think he is the type of Guy who is not adverse to treading on peoples toes, and there have been several toes trod on over the years.

I have hawked with him several times and if you can be of use to him he will use you, if you have decent ground he will use that.
I am comfortable with the fact that I have not used anybody, not interested in publicising myself because I don't have the knowledge or the expertise and would not sell myself as something I am not.
I went to a Scottish hawking club meet, when Calvin arrived, he left without flying his bird saying the ground was not suitable.
Somebody said Mike is such a purist he is not flying his hawks today...........
call me cynical but could it have been because there were people ther that he had flown with and rubbished who Mike knew were more adept and skillfull than him...................................I think so purist my A***

[Alf]

Well thats a new one on me::rolleyes:
maybe he is as good as he says he is who knows?:yawinkle:

UOTE=Kitetrainer;429533]Yep, I think he is the type of Guy who is not adverse to treading on peoples toes, and there have been several toes trod on over the years.

I have hawked with him several times and if you can be of use to him he will use you, if you have decent ground he will use that.
I am comfortable with the fact that I have not used anybody, not interested in publicising myself because I don't have the knowledge or the expertise and would not sell myself as something I am not.
I went to a Scottish hawking club meet, when Calvin arrived, he left without flying his bird saying the ground was not suitable.
Somebody said Mike is such a purist he is not flying his hawks today...........
call me cynical but could it have been because there were people ther that he had flown with and rubbished who Mike knew were more adept and skillfull than him...................................I think so purist my A***[/QUOTE]

[CJTaylor]

We would love calvin to come and talk to us face to face, there must be 30 falconers up here just in cumbria,and each one has their own reason for detesting the guy, but guess what, we also no he wont. I personaly watched him systomaticaly go through a whole legion of lads who like pete thought the sun shone? even when i pre warned them,but no he had charmed them, but it gave me a certain amount of joy as i watched them one by one see through him or be duped/tricked, i dont know a single falconer up here who has a good word for him. Bare in mind also the amount of pms myself and others have had from people who dont want to go public, belive me all you doubters, i can see it must look like a whitch hunt but by god, you dont no the half. he must be the least popular man in british falconry, u dont get that title being good at your art.

[Dean]

If calvin has trained a gyr/peregrine hybrid to fly high,gain good position,stoop hard and take out chosen game there is no one more adept and skillful than he! As good obviously but no better with the species concerned!

[CJTaylor]

If calvin has trained a gyr/peregrine hybrid to fly high,gain good position,stoop hard and take out chosen game there is no one more adept and skillful than he! As good obviously but no better with the species concerned!
Hasnt many falconers achieved this without crawling over all and sundry to get there, they my friend have achieved and many would say to higher standards,not just the one bird either.

[Berkut]

If Calvins name had not come up on this forum as one of the best Falconers in the world I would never have mentioned his name. The guy lives on the reputation of one bird,and although I agree it was an excellent, high flying gamehawk,it was not the complete gamehawk in the true sense of the word,as it was selective of what game it would chase. I have no axe to grind with Pete and wish him all the best.
Over the years Calvin in one form or another has done more damage to falconry than good. I would say nothing on this forum that I would not say to the mans face.The guy is a total ***** and I would not fart on him if he was suffocating. One thing you will be unlikely to see on this forum is someone who can honestly stand up and support him,because they too would be shot down in flames. My initial comments were seen as sour grapes, but that has certainly been proved not to be the case.
All the best,
Neil

[Alf]

I take it he's not on your Christmas card list?:wink:

If Calvins name had not come up as one of the best Falconers in the world I would never have mentioned his name. The guy lives on the reputation of one bird,and although I agree it was an excellent, high flying gamehawk,it was not the complete gamehawk in the true sense of the word,as it was selective of what game it would chase. I have no axe to grind with Pete and wish him all the best.
Over the years Calvin in one form or another has done more damage to falconry than good. I would say nothing on this forum that I would not say to the mans face.The guy is a total ***** and I would not fart on him if he was suffocating. One thing you will be unlikely to see on this forum is someone who can honestly stand up and support him,because they too would be shot down in flames. My initial comments were seen as sour grapes, but that has certainly been proved not to be the case.
All the best,
Neil

[CJTaylor]

I take it he's not on your Christmas card list?:wink:

He aint on any ones

[Dean]

Lets face it,all obsessive falconers are legends in their own lifetimes,all thinking they are the best at what they do! On the contrary,would we be any good if we didnt!:yawinkle:

[KiteTrainer]

If calvin has trained a gyr/peregrine hybrid to fly high,gain good position,stoop hard and take out chosen game there is no one more adept and skillful than he! As good obviously but no better with the species concerned!

It was his second bird that season, don't know what happened to the first

[TimDog80]

plus side of this for pete though..... any publicity is good publicity:supz: i probably would not have though about buying the book until now just to take in what good contributions or what potential storymaking from this calvin guy is in it :yawinkle:

[CJTaylor]

plus side of this for pete though..... any publicity is good publicity:supz: i probably would not have though about buying the book until now just to take in what good contributions or what potential storymaking from this calvin guy is in it :yawinkle:
Hes certainly got publicity i will give him that, but theres a hell of alot of guys aint gonna touch the book.

[Ben C]

****ing falconers are our own worst enemies!!!!!!

Someone who has the nouse and balls to invest time and money writing a book and having the confidence to perhaps share it with others deserves top marks. I have met Mr Smith and know he does not suffer fools gladly, ignore the naysayers and keep on keeping on.

I'll take two copies......and I want them signed so I can show them off. :supz: :yawinkle: :lol:

[CJTaylor]

****ing falconers are our own worst enemies!!!!!!

Someone who has the nouse and balls to invest time and money writing a book and having the confidence to perhaps share it with others deserves top marks. I have met Mr Smith and know he does not suffer fools gladly, ignore the naysayers and keep on keeping on.

I'll take two copies......and I want them signed so I can show them off. :supz: :yawinkle: :lol:
Petes not the issue ben, i suppose dont question what you dont quite understand comes to mind, however ive just read your biography...good luck mate.

[KiteTrainer]

****ing falconers are our own worst enemies!!!!!!

Someone who has the nouse and balls to invest time and money writing a book and having the confidence to perhaps share it with others deserves top marks. I have met Mr Smith and know he does not suffer fools gladly, ignore the naysayers and keep on keeping on.

I'll take two copies......and I want them signed so I can show them off. :supz: :yawinkle: :lol:


I am sure as I have said before that Pete Smith is a very capable falconer
the issue with the whole thing is Michael Calvin who is overated and untrustworthy.

He cannot be decribed as one of the British Greats in Falconry terms

Pete has been unfortunate in his choice of this co-writer/contributer who will do more harm to sales than good.



.

[Dean]

To be a great falconer one must make ones self great,nothing to do with flying birds,publicity is the key! Good falconers are simply that,good falconers,there are no greats,just people who know the game! Some thrive limelight,some not!:yawinkle:

[Berkut]

All of the above changes nothing.Michael Calvin is an untrustworthy pr*ck.
Those who think otherwise and rub shoulders with the ars*hole will find this out for themselves in time.:)

[Alf]

Dean I wonder how Mike feels about all this bad press he has been getting from this list. Surly the word has leaked back to him by now. Wonder if he still feels he is one of the greats? Alf.

To be a great falconer one must make ones self great,nothing to do with flying birds,publicity is the key! Good falconers are simply that,good falconers,there are no greats,just people who know the game! Some thrive limelight,some not!:yawinkle:

[KiteTrainer]

To be a great falconer one must make ones self great,nothing to do with flying birds,publicity is the key! Good falconers are simply that,good falconers,there are no greats,just people who know the game! Some thrive limelight,some not!:yawinkle:

I agree with you to an extent.But some talk a good game in spite of their lack of ability and some people who lack knowledge and believe their stories of great prowess

Thats what worries me. People who can do people who can't talk about it

[CJTaylor]

All of the above changes nothing.Michael Calvin is an untrustworthy pr*ck.
Those who think otherwise and rub shoulders with the ars*hole will find this out for themselves in time.:)

NEIL, ive never met you, or kitetrainer, or pitbullone,or gos 2, or deadogs,or infact many others, but we have all met calvin, and all feel excactly the same about him, and we all know that pete will DEFINATLEY WITHOUT a shadow of a doubt be of the same opinion,prob sooner rather than later, maybe pete should of had a few more years at the game to both get to know much better his co writers and their real worth,prior to the book,.any one who knows calvin though would know it was bound to happen,some one was going to be duped big style.unfortunatley we didnt realise how BIG .

[Dean]

Exactly my point,take your falconry very seriously,dress yourself in the desired,publicise all your successes,add a tad of unknown ****,recipe for the hall of fame!:supz:

[CJTaylor]

Exactly my point,take your falconry very seriously,dress yourself in the desired,publicise all your successes,add a tad of unknown ****,recipe for the hall of fame!:supz:

Dean, ive a sneaky feeling youve met the guy mate, cheers Colin

[Alf]

That’s me ****ed then! I look when out hunting like I have just been pulled through a hedge backwards:lol: . Alf.

Exactly my point,take your falconry very seriously,dress yourself in the desired,publicise all your successes,add a tad of unknown ****,recipe for the hall of fame!:supz:

[Berkut]

That’s me ****ed then! I look when out hunting like I have just been pulled through a hedge backwards:lol: . Alf.

Alf,
That,s because guys like you and me have nothing to prove to anyone.

[Falconry Equipment International]

That’s me ****ed then! I look when out hunting like I have just been pulled through a hedge backwards:lol: . Alf.

Ha ha Alf :lol: :rolleyes: I was once berated because of what i wore at BFC field meet .. what i wore did not make my hawk fly any better or worse:twisted:

[Trappa]

Youve got to look good when your out!...... I always wear my best white shell-suit and some top spec nike trainers.:yawinkle:

[Alf]

To right mate!. The only time you would catch me in tweed would be if I was hunting in Berwick. Alf.

Ha ha Alf :lol: :rolleyes: I was once berated because of what i wore at BFC field meet .. what i wore did not make my hawk fly any better or worse:twisted:

[CJTaylor]

To right mate!. The only time you would catch me in tweed would be if I was hunting in Berwick. Alf.

I once went hawking in a mole skin thong,unfortunatley i only needed one mole?

[Dean]

Dunno, im always blowin my own trumpet,no ****er else will!:(

[Alf]

Nice to look good though! the last time I was on a mine field meet up here was with Jeff Armstrong and had arranged a day for Dave Goff , Nick Curry Henry Desmont and a few others I had never met them before. I met them at a pub to go on up to Jeff’s place. I could see when I pulled up in the car park in my old battered transit jumping out with jeans and a **** off padded coat they were looking at me as if to say what the **** ! These guys all with there full kit on tweeds ties the lot they must have thought whose this! We still had a good day even if I looked like Derrick trotter.
It’s not what’s on you its what’s in you that counts! Alf.


Alf,
That,s because guys like you and me have nothing to prove to anyone.

[Mr_Colin]

Met Pete at the IFF's 1st Birthday bash and thought the guy a star and wish him well with his book. I am sure there is going to be some good stuff written by him, and if everyone can just ignore the other bloke's chapter it will be fine.

Good luck with it Pete. Sorry not going to buy it as it's not what I am into, but wish you well with the venture. Now when you write a Harris book let me know and I will buy one;-)

Colin

[Pete Smith]

So I guess Mike's not to popular in Cumbria! If I have involved him to the books detriment so be it.

If Neil...Colin etc were contributing and being subjected to a similar character assasignation and I told them to "sling-their-hook" what would that make me??? exactly no better than their perception of M.C.

Mike has flown good birds I know this from others, not M.C. self publicising...he also writes well, not a common combination in falconry.

I understand some of the comments ref dress code and feeling alienated, snobbery is something I abore [If you feel it nessesary to dress in Harris Tweeds grand...go for it] but don't judge a book by the cover... :yawinkle: .

Mike dos'nt have internet access so it's unlikely you will be seeing a response from him, which does make this whole thing....slightly one sided.
Anyway why don't you guy's all kiss and make up, it's Christmas!!

[Berkut]

So I guess Mike's not to popular in Cumbria! If I have involved him to the books detriment so be it.

If Neil...Colin etc were contributing and being subjected to a similar character assasignation and I told them to "sling-their-hook" what would that make me??? exactly no better than their perception of M.C.

Mike has flown good birds I know this from others, not M.C. self publicising...he also writes well, not a common combination in falconry.

I understand some of the comments ref dress code and feeling alienated, snobbery is something I abore [If you feel it nessesary to dress in Harris Tweeds grand...go for it] but don't judge a book by the cover... :yawinkle: .

Mike dos'nt have internet access so it's unlikely you will be seeing a response from him, which does make this whole thing....slightly one sided.
Anyway why don't you guy's all kiss and make up, it's Christmas!!

Pete,
Nothing is going to change my opinion based on FACTS,however I have no axe to grind with you and hope you sell bucketloads of the book.
At least one thing is for sure,your book has received a degree of publicity,which won,t be a bad thing(for you.)

[Falconry Equipment International]

:lol: :rolleyes: :lol: :yawinkle: I once went hawking in a mole skin thong,unfortunatley i only needed one mole?

[Falconry Equipment International]

Dunno, im always blowin my own trumpet,no ****er else will!:(
Dean actually my reply here is serious, I have always enjoyed your posts and whilst I have never seen any of your hawks fly,(I beleive you said once we met at stens?) I would be really pleased to join you for a day out , You write with a certain authority especially when gamehawking is concerned, now I could be wrong( we can all talk the talk:yawinkle: ) but I feel there is a distinct depth of knowledge that can only come from vast experience in the field, merry Xmas

[Moses]

pete im a big fan of u and your mates who did the goshawk vid mate, i woz a convert the day i watched it

plz put my name doon as well , i hope its got enuff details on shortwings, i luv em :D

i just wish u did a follow up tae the goshawk vid and longer as well maybe 2 hrs or so not just crows and magpies but hunting on fields , pheasants, rabbits and anything

i would have loved tae buy that

cheers

[CJTaylor]

So I guess Mike's not to popular in Cumbria! If I have involved him to the books detriment so be it.

If Neil...Colin etc were contributing and being subjected to a similar character assasignation and I told them to "sling-their-hook" what would that make me??? exactly no better than their perception of M.C.

Mike has flown good birds I know this from others, not M.C. self publicising...he also writes well, not a common combination in falconry.

I understand some of the comments ref dress code and feeling alienated, snobbery is something I abore [If you feel it nessesary to dress in Harris Tweeds grand...go for it] but don't judge a book by the cover... :yawinkle: .

Mike dos'nt have internet access so it's unlikely you will be seeing a response from him, which does make this whole thing....slightly one sided.
Anyway why don't you guy's all kiss and make up, it's Christmas!!

Pete if ive upset you mate, i am indeed truly sorry,that wasnt my intention, actually i feel for you as hes managed to sweet talk us all at some point,so your no diff than all the rest.I just hope his involvement dosent wreck it for you.ps it isnt just cumbria pete, its the north east north west and scotland. mike we both know you have access to this forum, in all honesty you may treat some birds and most your ex dogs with brutality that few would believe,but your not an uneducated lad, did you seriously think you could behave ,dissrespect, run roughshod and use all your life long friends in some cases, collegues and mentors like you have done in your quest, and not have it come back to haunt you? i also think you should appologise to pete.

[Falconry Equipment International]

Pete I am sorry if I have not responded re your thread title , let me wish you all the best with the book ( I know how difficult it is writting such a book as I have a similar project on the go) .
I Must admit that I have been quite astonished at the level and amount of anger directed towards Mike Calvin. I have probably only met him a couple of times and they would have been at the FF ( dont think I have met him at a meet?) but have sold him Kites on a number of occasions and he always seemed a genuine chap, perhaps I am naive ( we can all make mistakes) but I have been really shocked by the venom levelled at him by some folk that I respect as well as others I do not know. I hope that any controversy does not affect sales of your work. wishing all on the list a very happy xmas

[KiteTrainer]

I once went hawking in a mole skin thong,unfortunatley i only needed one mole?

Was it a baby mole?:lol:

[Dean]

To be honest julian i have had a ***** 2yrs or so,personal reasons! Although i tried to get back in the saddle this season my success was limited,i can only recall a few pure flights,kills were often fast and furious,fieldcraft poor! Should hopefully get my head clear for next season:yawinkle:

[Falconry Equipment International]

To be honest julian i have had a ***** 2yrs or so,personal reasons! Although i tried to get back in the saddle this season my success was limited,i can only recall a few pure flights,kills were often fast and furious,fieldcraft poor! Should hopefully get my head clear for next season:yawinkle:

Dean happens to the best and the worst of us.... My best gamehawk was my 1st god how I yearn for the pitches she made and it is hawks I have had since that have mad eme fully realise that it was the fact that she was an incredible gamehawk, despite my input, not because of it, if that makes sense.

[CloudBase1664]

Hi Alf
I remember that day well you put yourself out to make us welcome and to make sure we had a successful day .Thanks again. 1 remember Henri's Gyr/merlin flying down a grey and Nick's tiercel Zulu knocking a partridge into a telegraph pole and killing it ,I even remember your old van(I followed it for long enough) but I can't for the life of me remember what you or anyone else was wearing and I care even less.If I get invited somewhere I haven;t flown before by someone I dont know I try to look reasonably smart as a mark of respect I ;ve had one pair of tweed trousers which I wore twice (they made my legs itch and when they got wet they stank of ****<g>)and my last pair of moleskins went into the dog basket 2 years ago (they cost to much and make yer bum look big<g>)The "I've nothing to prove" mentality is the same sort of inverted snobbery .As far as I 'm concerned no one has anything to prove although you look back at previous messages on this theme and then tell me who are setting themselves up as judge and jury.
I suggest that with Pete Smith's book we wait and judge the written content and not who wrote it! after all from what I've heard Ray Turner would never win a popularity contest but his book's well worth a read.

Merry Christmas

Dave Goff

[Alf]

Hi Dave hope you are keeping well?
If I remember correctly Henry looked really smart bit of an over kill as we drove through Ashington passing burnt out cars left at the side of the road good job he never had to track his falcon over the houses the locals would have started throwing sticks at him;)
Good day mate really enjoyed it!
Are you still flying Mike?. Alf.



Hi Alf
I remember that day well you put yourself out to make us welcome and to make sure we had a successful day .Thanks again. 1 remember Henri's Gyr/merlin flying down a grey and Nick's tiercel Zulu knocking a partridge into a telegraph pole and killing it ,I even remember your old van(I followed it for long enough) but I can't for the life of me remember what you or anyone else was wearing and I care even less.If I get invited somewhere I haven;t flown before by someone I dont know I try to look reasonably smart as a mark of respect I ;ve had one pair of tweed trousers which I wore twice (they made my legs itch and when they got wet they stank of ****<g>)and my last pair of moleskins went into the dog basket 2 years ago (they cost to much and make yer bum look big<g>)The "I've nothing to prove" mentality is the same sort of inverted snobbery .As far as I 'm concerned no one has anything to prove although you look back at previous messages on this theme and then tell me who are setting themselves up as judge and jury.
I suggest that with Pete Smith's book we wait and judge the written content and not who wrote it! after all from what I've heard Ray Turner would never win a popularity contest but his book's well worth a read.

Merry Christmas

Dave Goff

[Falcons7]

I wouldd have paid to see sticks gettin thrown at him ,come to think of it I woud have paid for the sticks to be thrown at him ,would put the points on me self !!!




Hi Dave hope you are keeping well?
If I remember correctly Henry looked really smart bit of an over kill as we drove through Ashington passing burnt out cars left at the side of the road good job he never had to track his falcon over the houses the locals would have started throwing sticks at him;)
Good day mate really enjoyed it!
Are you still flying Mike?. Alf.

[Tim Laycock]

I've had one pair of tweed trousers which I wore twice (they made my legs itch and when they got wet they stank of ****<g>)

PMSL :supz:

[Alf]

Alright Jeff merry Christmas mate.
Yes I could see Henry lasting all of ten minutes walking around Ashington like that.
It would have started with sticks then bottles probably milk crates after that or anything the locales could get there hands on.
Would have been fun to see that:lol:


I wouldd have paid to see sticks gettin thrown at him ,come to think of it I woud have paid for the sticks to be thrown at him ,would put the points on me self !!!

[Falcons7]

his ears ,they wud take some stick!! and all the best




His earsAlright Jeff merry Christmas mate.
Yes I could see Henry lasting all of ten minutes walking around Ashington like that.
It would have started with sticks then bottles probably milk crates after that or anything the locales could get there hands on.
Would have been fun to see that:lol:

[Falconry Equipment International]

Was it a baby mole?:lol:
sorry to take this thread really off topic but after all it is xmas:yawinkle: and this morning I was thinking about your post and thought of this story....Well 20 odd years ago My younger sister wanted a new pet , so my parents dorve the 120 mile to nottingham and bought her a chinchilla for her birthday. when she gets home she proudly shows it to me and says "what do you think?" my reply was , are you going to breed from it? "why " she says, " well you only need another 199 and you got a fur coat !" says I
:rolleyes::twisted:

[CJTaylor]

sorry to take this thread really off topic but after all it is xmas:yawinkle: and this morning I was thinking about your post and thought of this story....Well 20 odd years ago My younger sister wanted a new pet , so my parents dorve the 120 mile to nottingham and bought her a chinchilla for her birthday. when she gets home she proudly shows it to me and says "what do you think?" my reply was , are you going to breed from it? "why " she says, " well you only need another 199 and you got a fur coat !" says I
:rolleyes::twisted: Not if your making thongs though? for me any how....

[Laggan]

Dean happens to the best and the worst of us.... My best gamehawk was my 1st god how I yearn for the pitches she made and it is hawks I have had since that have mad eme fully realise that it was the fact that she was an incredible gamehawk, despite my input, not because of it, if that makes sense.

This comment really hit the spot.......good to read some straight honesty.....and an appreciation that sometimes we just get blessed with incredibly talented birds. Good post.

[CloudBase1664]

[Good day mate really enjoyed it!
Are you still flying Mike?. Alf.[/QUOTE]

Hi Alf
yep I'm still flying him .He's now in his 9th season .He may not be the best hawk in the world but he's very consistent and I still enjoy watching him fly .I've crossed paths with Jeff twice this season ,once at Woodhall and once on the grousemoor .We came away with a kill each on both occasions .The invites seemed to have dried up lately I think he's got in with some dodgy charactors<bg>

Dave

[Alf]

Dave it shows your metal mate to stick with and bring out the best in a falcon. A credit to you and Mike.
Yes I have heard a whisper Jeff is flying with the big boys now:lol: :yawinkle: .
Alf.


Hi Alf
yep I'm still flying him .He's now in his 9th season .He may not be the best hawk in the world but he's very consistent and I still enjoy watching him fly .I've crossed paths with Jeff twice this season ,once at Woodhall and once on the grousemoor .We came away with a kill each on both occasions .The invites seemed to have dried up lately I think he's got in with some dodgy charactors<bg>

Dave[/QUOTE]

[Falcons7]

Iv added a bit culture to those southerners, a bit finess lol.






Dave it shows your metal mate to stick with and bring out the best in a falcon. A credit to you and Mike.
Yes I have heard a whisper Jeff is flying with the big boys now:lol: :yawinkle: .
Alf.


Hi Alf
yep I'm still flying him .He's now in his 9th season .He may not be the best hawk in the world but he's very consistent and I still enjoy watching him fly .I've crossed paths with Jeff twice this season ,once at Woodhall and once on the grousemoor .We came away with a kill each on both occasions .The invites seemed to have dried up lately I think he's got in with some dodgy charactors<bg>

Dave[/QUOTE]

[Barbary Boy]

i honestly dont know whats going on here! and ive never heard of mike calvin? and i dont care who he is, im keith mills and probably get called behind my back more than most! but im not bothered! so whats going on?

[Argee]

Was it a baby mole?:lol:

mmmm might even get molested ,
(*v*) ..

[Alf]

Bloody hell I have just found out that your Keith Mills!
How’s it going mate long time no hear?. You sly dog you, can you not say hello you ****. Alf.


i honestly dont know whats going on here! and ive never heard of mike calvin? and i dont care who he is, im keith mills and probably get called behind my back more than most! but im not bothered! so whats going on?

[DeadDogs]

i honestly dont know whats going on here! and ive never heard of mike calvin? and i dont care who he is, im keith mills and probably get called behind my back more than most! but im not bothered! so whats going on?

Now theres a REAL toss pot for ya...BB

[Mr_Colin]

If Neil...Colin etc were contributing and being subjected to a similar character assasignation and I told them to "sling-their-hook" what would that make me??? exactly no better than their perception of M.C.

!!

Is that "Colin" aimed at me Pete as I thought I said kind things in my post.

Here's a reminder

Met Pete at the IFF's 1st Birthday bash and thought the guy a star and wish him well with his book. I am sure there is going to be some good stuff written by him, and if everyone can just ignore the other bloke's chapter it will be fine.

Good luck with it Pete. Sorry not going to buy it as it's not what I am into, but wish you well with the venture. Now when you write a Harris book let me know and I will buy one

Colin

[Richard]

i honestly dont know whats going on here! and ive never heard of mike calvin? and i dont care who he is, im keith mills and probably get called behind my back more than most! but im not bothered! so whats going on?


Grab ya torch and pitch forks :evil: :rolleyes:

[Pete Smith]

Hi Colin,
No not aimed at you, your response and the private mails of support from other guy's on the forum's really appreciated.
Cheers Pete.

[Argee]

Grab ya torch and pitch forks :evil: :rolleyes:

I'll hold his coat .....
(*v*) ...:yawinkle:

[Barbary Boy]

i think ive ordered it? im not sure i was ****ed last night! but like any book im sure it will have something to offer?

[Dave Whitt]

Pete, I would really like a copy of the book but won`t get the time to read it and you have probabally used all sort`s of big words. So my question is simple are the pictures any good ?? :roll:

[Miguel Gomez]

This comment really hit the spot.......good to read some straight honesty.....and an appreciation that sometimes we just get blessed with incredibly talented birds. Good post.

I dont know Mike Calvin, but his 'good:?: ' name is known even this far south.

Saw him flying Grouse once at a fieldmeet, there were 5 other Longwingers present and MC took 3 out of the 6 points as the other falconers were voluntarily missing thier slip to see the 1000' + pitches his bird was reaching. He took 2 out of the 3 Grouse flushed and 3rd was hit and lost in the heather along with his glove.

He may not be popular, but the above must require some skill?

I personally prefered seeing the action produced from pitches of 300'-500' , from a 1000'+ the connection with the grouse was only just visible.

I think its such a shame to see Witchhunts are still permitted and continue on this forum.

I would also like to buy this book, after all MC has only written 1 chapter....

[Dave Whitt]

Hey Pete, any news on your book yet ????

[RWR]

Yes Pete I can not wait.