[lugsoul]

Sure - please explain which basic rule of hunting the 'shootee' broke.

Since it is so obvious with regard to the shooter, I don't need for you to answer that one.

Also, for any contention that the 'shootee' did something wrong, can you point me to your source for the factual basis?

Finally, for any contention that the 'shootee' did something wrong, please advise whether any such wrongdoing caused the VP to pull the trigger with a man in front of his shotgun.

[cripplecreek]

If you look you'll see the explanation all over the thread. Now I'm remembering something I read about arguing with fools and shutting up.

[Ben Mugged]

Sure - please explain which basic rule of hunting the 'shootee' broke. When line shooting, you always announce when you rejoin the line. This lets the other shooters know where you are. As a hunter you are focused on the possibility of a rising bird in front of you. If your partner is known to be on your left and the bird breaks to the left your partner owns the bird. If your partner drops out to pick up a bird, if the bird breaks to the left you own the bird until he announces his return.

Also, for any contention that the 'shootee' did something wrong, can you point me to your source for the factual basis? My grandfather taught my father and my two brothers the rules of line hunting. As far as I'm concerned, that instruction is gospel.

Finally, for any contention that the 'shootee' did something wrong, please advise whether any such wrongdoing caused the VP to pull the trigger with a man in front of his shotgun. If you are following the flight of a bird, you are focused on the bird not the background. The background is moving at a relatively fast pace. You must lead the bird and shoot out in front of it. The point at which you pull the trigger is reflex.

Get a single shot 12 gage with bird shot and go hunting then we'll talk more. I'll even get Grandpa to give you lessons.

[Smokin' Joe]

The "shootee" should have approached the party from directly behind. An experiencd bird hunter would know that birds flush in every direction and that the other members of the party will track them (and follow through in their sweep) when making a wing shot, and make the effort to avoid being in the line of fire. If there was no better route to rejoin the party, a whisper, whistle, or some sort of notification that they were aproaching such as "I'm over to your left." would be prudent. If that fouled up a shot at some birds, so be it, there will be other opportunities.

Safety is everyone's responsibility.

That said, no,I am not letting Vice President Cheney off the hook; the greatest responsibility remains with the person shooting.