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Innovative Technologies: ZEISS T* Coating

Tech Know-How

Confidence in the Thoughest Conditions

Science and innovative technologies, but primarily the close contact to passionate hunters lead to pioneering developments over and over again. This makes your “ZEISS” a reliable companion even under the toughest conditions.

Designed to withstand the forces of nature in extreme hunting and outdoor conditions, these high-performance optics also provide robustness and reliability expected by demanding users the world over. Electronics and additional innovative functions increasingly create new ways of experiencing nature and passion than never before.

T* coating – An outstanding feature of all ZEISS products

The historical invention of anti-reflective coatings by Professor Smakula is just a single event – an event that launched an entirely new epoch in the field of optics. Image brightness, twilight performance, and brilliance were redefined by the T* coating and are still an outstanding feature of all ZEISS products.

The difference lies in the transmission

Although a high-quality branded 8 x 56 pair of binoculars and any simple 8 x 56 pair have the same exit pupil, the stand hunter will notice a major difference at dawn and twilight. The difference lies in the transmission. This value indicates the percent of incidental light that exits through the eyepiece again. The different impact of exit pupil and transmission on image brightness can be illustrated as follows: the exit pupil refers to the size of the window from which light exits the binoculars. On good branded or cheap binoculars having the same data, this window is generally the same. The transmission value, however, identifies the transparency of this window. Is it clear and bright or cloudy and dark?

First-rate binoculars and riflescopes provide transmission values over 90%; measurements on the ZEISS Victory HT 8×54 showed a value of more than 95%. In practice, differences of 1 to 2% are unnoticeable. A 5% increase, however, provides decisive reserves in dwindling light and enables considerably longer observation and reliable aiming.

Around the world, binoculars and riflescopes from ZEISS are considered the most powerful in their market and are preferred for use in difficult lighting situations. This is closely linked to the term T* coating which has become synonymous with maximum light intensity and brightest images.

Reflections on glass surfaces

In general, a variety of factors always results in a loss of light in optical devices. Reflections and antireflective coatings on the glass surfaces have the greatest impact because a small portion of light is reflected every time the light passes from air to glass (and vice versa). Without an effective coating, this would be 4% for each glass surface; over 6% on elaborate binoculars with large refractive indexes. High-quality ZEISS binoculars include up to 12 lens elements on each side plus two prisms. Depending on the number of cemented elements, 16 to 20 glass-air surfaces may be used. Without an effective coating, the transmission would be considerably less than 50%; the images would show low contrast and be dull.

T* multi-coating

Initial tests were conducted at Carl Zeiss Jena (patent allowed in 1935) and resulted in a method of applying a transmission coating to glass. At that time the T coating – a single coat – was born. It was replaced by the T* multi-coating at the end of the 1970s. The current, constantly enhanced and unique ZEISS T* multi-coating on all glass-air surfaces is not simply a fixed recipe but also an innovative multi-coat procedure with a typical six-coat structure that is individually matched to the single lens elements and glass materials. More than 100 layers evaporated in high vacuum on each side of the binoculars are, therefore, a common sight on ZEISS binoculars.

Twilight adjustment

The T* coating accounts for the increased blue sensitivity of the eye in deep twilight and further optimizes light efficiency when required the most.

The patent of Carl Zeiss for the invention of the coating of glass surfaces. Image: © ZEISS Archiv

Effect of the prisms

In addition to increasing transmission, the coating also serves as an effective, hard surface sealant that protects the partly sensitive optical glass. In addition to reflections the type of prism system plays a key role in image brightness on all binoculars. Therefore, all twilightcapable roof prisms of Carl Zeiss use the outstanding Abbe-König prism system. Although it is somewhat larger and heavier it does not need a light-swallowing mirror coating like the standard Schmidt-Pechan system. All light deflections inside the prisms take place as total reflections that, unlike a mirror, do not show a loss of light. This applies to Porro prisms as well, which also provide a very good foundation regarding image brightness.

Measurement

Transmission determining is relatively difficult, which is why the values rarely appear in test reports. The transmission values for spectral colors (different wavelengths) are determined individually by means of nearly 500 measurements. The result is assessed with the sensitivity of the human eye regarding colors (sensitivity curve). The eye is most sensitive to the green spectral range. Accordingly, these colors have the greatest influence. High infrared or UV transmission, on the other hand, is not included in the assessment because it is not perceived by the eye. The final result is a value known as day transmission.

Day and night transmission

While the cones in the retina are responsible for daytime vision primarily, it is the rods that take over at night or in very low light.

This results in a different sensitivity curve regarding colors: the maximum sensitivity moves to the blue spectrum. If the measured spectral transmission curve is assessed using this night sensitivity now it provides the night transmission. Night or day makes no difference to the binoculars but to the sensitivity of the eye.

Introducing: Cupo Libre

Clic aquí para la versión española

An Interview with Spanish ZEISS Ambassador Pilar Escribano Reina

My passion for hunting comes from a family tradition that has remained unchanged for generations. This family relationship and our close connection with the great outdoors have shaped my heart and the love for nature. A large part of this is due to my grandmother, Ana Maria Benítez Cañuelo, who was a pioneer among hunters in the 1950s. I was further strengthened in my passion by my wonderful uncle Rafa Ruda, who let me shoot for the first time 20 years ago. That was my first shot!

I WAS BORN AND RAISED BETWEEN IMPORTANT HUNTERS. SINCE MY EARLIEST CHILDHOOD, I HAVE BEEN TAUGHT ALL ASPECTS OF HUNTING WITH CARE AND SENSIBILITY.
Pilar Escribano Reina

Now I enthusiastically immerse myself in every major project dedicated to hunting, such as my blog “Cupo Libre” and my TV show “Hunter Style”, which is broadcast on Spain’s most important hunting channel, Caza y Pesca TV.

Which area of hunting suits you the most?Without a doubt, hunting from a raised hide. It is simply the most practical. I was also able to gain some experience in stalking game. It is such a fascinating world, in which I hope to discover new species within Spain, but also outside of our national borders. This world has enchanted me.

How did you get the idea to create a hunting blog? When did you start with “Cupo Libre”?I have been running my website “Cupo Libre” (www.cupolibre.es) for a little more than three years now. Later I ventured into social networks, blogs and the trade press. With the help of these different medias, I would like to introduce interested people to an ancient craft which does not receive enough attention in today’s society due to a lack of knowledge about hunting.

What is your goal with the blog?Through the blog, I wanted to share with the world how a woman copes in the world of hunting. I always aim to present the topic from a simple, dynamic, direct and real perspective. With “Cupo Libre” I don’t want to give lectures or give hunting lessons, but rather open this sometimes sealed topic up to everyone who is interested. But I don’t only talk about my own experiences, I also cover other aspects related to hunting, such as. B. gastronomy, nature conservation, fashion or hunting tourism. In short, I would like to open a small window for hunting life to a world that is facing increasing urbanization.

How do you explain the tremendous success that “Cupo Libre” has experienced in such a short time?I don’t think that “Cupo Libre” – at least not yet – has been a tremendous success. It took constant work and dedication over the past few years. Unfortunately, I cannot invest as much time as I would like because of my professional commitments. But I am convinced that I can gradually gain more followers and readers who will encourage me to continue with this great project.

The originality is particularly remarkable. This is due to the high level of differentiation and the great work of other bloggers as well as the presence in various social networks (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc.).

What is the main focus of “Cupo Libre”?On this platform I write about my hunting experiences while always highlighting one of the thematic pillars that make up “Cupo Libre” – Experiences, interviews, tours to charming places, curiosities of nature or game recipes etc. I am also lucky enough to be able to work with large and well-respected brands in the hunting and fashion sector, who let me test and publish their products on my various digital platforms. “Cupo Libre” draws from a comprehensive and diverse repertoire with which we can introduce nature and hunting as well as various market innovations to lovers and groups of people who have not yet had access to the topic. “Cupo Libre” is dynamic and young. With its fresh and innovative touch, the platform breaks through the routine and classicism of the industry.

“Cupo Libre” is a new and innovative idea that differs significantly from other blogs on the subject of hunting. The blog is mainly characterized by less aggressive content and clear statements. If today’s society were to familiarize themselves a little more with the subject of hunting, they could recognize their benefits and advantages for the conservation and handling of nature.

In general, how do you assess the role of women in the hunting world?As I mentioned in advance, I come from a family of hunters: my grandma was a hunter, my aunts are hunters. So it’s normal in my family to be a hunter. I don’t think we have a different status. I believe women pursue hunting out of enthusiasm and not because they want to compete.

How do you think hunting will evolve over time?At the moment, hunting is in a difficult position. As hunters, we need to show adequate respect and appreciation for game or our daily work. Often it is due to a lack of knowledge that people want to break with an ancient tradition. They simply don’t know about the importance of hunting for our rural environment and nature and that is actually the key to preserving the incomparable ecosystem and biodiversity of Spain.

What do you think of ZEISS optics?For me, ZEISS means quality, tradition and security. In my hunting family, every family member owns a product of the German brand. I still remember how I accompanied my uncles and aunts hunting when I just started. They were always on target with their old binoculars and riflescopes from ZEISS. More than 20 years later, some of these items are still in perfect condition.

I am currently using a ZEISS Conquest V6 2.5-15×56 ASV, which I use for driven hunts as well as stalking. I am completely satisfied with that. It is ideal for hunting in Spain.

Equipment used

Entrevista Cupo Libre

Mi pasión por la caza nace de una tradición familiar que ha ido transmitiéndose durante generaciones. Este vínculo familiar y la estrecha unión que de siempre hemos tenido al campo, han forjado mi carácter cazador y amante de la naturaleza. Gran parte de culpa lo tiene mi abuela materna Doña Ana Mª Benítez Cañuelo, quien fue una pionera de las mujeres monteras allá por los años 50. Pero quién más afianzó mi afición, aún más si cabe, fue mi querido tío Rafa Ruda, cuando hace ya 20 años, me dejo tirar por primera vez. ¡Fue mi primer lance!

Nací, crecí y vivo entre una saga de grandes monteros y cazadores. Desde muy pequeña me han ido enseñando, con esmero y delicadeza, todo lo que rodea a esta actividad.
Pilar Escribano Reina

Ahora sigo ilusionada e inmersa en grandes proyectos que tienen la caza como elemento principal, como son mi blog “Cupo Libre” y mi programa de televisión “Hunter Style” que se emite en el canal de caza más importante de España, Caza y Pesca TV.

¿Cuál es la modalidad que más te gusta?La montería, sin duda, y además es la que más práctico. En el rececho ya he realizado mis primeros pasos. Es un mundo apasionante y que espero ir descubriendo poco a poco consiguiendo nuevas especies, tanto en España, como fuera de nuestras fronteras. Me ha cautivado.

¿Cómo nació la idea de crear un Blog de caza? ¿Cuándo lanzaste Cupo Libre?Nació de la necesidad de querer comunicar al mundo como una mujer vive una actividad tan poco conocida como es la venatoria, siempre desde un punto de vista sencillo, dinámico, directo y sin artificios. Con Cupo Libre no pretendo asentar cátedra ni dar lecciones de caza a nadie, pero si intento abrir el hermetismo que en ocasiones este mundo encierra a todas aquellas personas que a él quieren acercarse. Además, no sólo lo hago contando mis propias experiencias, sino poniendo en valor otros aspectos muy relacionados con ella, como son la gastronomía, la conservación, la moda o el turismo cinegético, entre otras.

¿Cuál es el objetivo que buscas con ella?Son ya más de tres años desde que lancé mi página web de Cupo Libre (www.cupolibre.es), que luego ha ido dando paso a sus respectivas Redes Sociales y blogs en prensa especializada. Con todo ello intento poner en valor una actividad ancestral, no muy bien vista por la sociedad actual, dado el desconocimiento que se tiene de la misma, y del propio medio rural.

¿Cómo explicas el rotundo éxito que ha tenido Cupo Libre en tan poco tiempo?No considero que Cupo Libre haya tenido, aún, un éxito rotundo. Es el trabajo constante de estos años de dedicación temporal, pues mis compromisos laborales no me permiten dedicarle el tiempo que me gustaría. Es cierto que poco a poco voy teniendo más seguidores y lectores que me animan a continuar con esta bonita causa.
Lo que es más llamativo es su originalidad, pues es muy diferenciado y completo respecto a la gran labor que hacen otras blogueras, pues además de tener presencia en diferentes RRSS (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, etc.), también cuento con una web personal en la que escribo mis propios artículos y elaboro contenidos audiovisuales.

¿Cuál es el contenido principal de Cupo Libre?Procuro contar cómo es mí día a día, siempre visto desde algunos de los pilares temáticos que construyen Cupo Libre. No faltan vivencias, entrevistas, visitas a lugares con encanto, curiosidades de la naturaleza o alguna que otra receta a base de carne de caza, etc. Además, tengo la suerte de contar con la confianza de grandes y prestigiosas marcas del sector de la caza y la moda, quienes me dejan sus productos para que los pruebe y pueda darlos a conocer en mis distintos soportes digitales. Un amplio y variado repertorio con el fin de acercar el campo y la caza y algunas novedades del mercado, tanto a los aficionados, como a aquellos que la desconocen totalmente.

Cupo Libre es dinámico, juvenil, rompe con la rutina y el clasicismo del sector, dando un toque fresco e innovador. Además, es un espacio de entretenimiento para todos los amantes al campo en general.
La idea de crear un blog de estas características nace de mi pasión por la caza, una actividad muy arraigada en mi familia y que ha ido transmitiéndose durante generaciones. Este vínculo familiar y la estrecha unión que siempre he tenido al campo, han forjado mi carácter de cazador y amante de la naturaleza.

Cupo Libre es una idea nueva, innovadora y muy distinta de otros blogs de carácter cinegético. Principalmente se caracteriza por ser un espacio poco agresivo aportando una seña única.
Desde Cupo Libre pretendo comunicar al mundo como es mi estilo de vida, ligado a una actividad tan poco conocida como es la venatoria, siempre desde un punto de vista sencillo, dinámico, directo y sin artificios. Con Cupo Libre no pretendo asentar cátedra ni dar lecciones de caza a nadie, pero si intento abrir el hermetismo que en ocasiones este mundo encierra, a todas aquellas personas que a él quieren acercarse.

En resumen, es abrir una pequeña ventana dentro del mundo cinegético, a un universo global cada vez más urbanita. Es necesario acercar el campo, la naturaleza, la caza y todo lo que los rodea, tanto a los aficionados a esta actividad, como a quienes muestran curiosidad por ella.
Conociendo un poco más la actividad venatoria, la sociedad actual sabrá las ventajas y virtudes que ésta tiene en la conservación y gestión del medio natural.

Desde un plano más general ¿Cómo valoras el papel de la mujer dentro del mundo cinegético?Tal vez, últimamente, la presencia habitual y participativa de la mujer en la caza, haya dado una apariencia más “sensible” a un mundo considerado de hombres, pero este no es mi caso.
Como he dicho anteriormente, vengo de una familia de cazadores, mi abuela era cazadora, mis tías son cazadoras, por lo que en mi casa ser mujer cazadora es algo normal.
Por lo tanto, no creo que tengamos un papel diferente y que demostrar más por ser mujer en el mundo de la caza, ya que esto es una afición y no una competición.

¿Hacia dónde crees que camina la caza?Actualmente la caza no pasa por un buen momento. Si nosotros los cazadores no sabemos darle la dimensión necesaria, aportándole el respeto y valor que se merecen a cada una de nuestras piezas abatidas o a las simples jornadas de caza que disfrutamos con los nuestros, no iremos bien encaminados.
La cohesión y firme defensa de todos los entes que actualmente existen en nuestro país, es fundamental para ello. Son muchos los ignorantes que con un total desconocimiento de lo que implica la acción venatoria en nuestro medio rural y natural, quieren acabar con una actividad ancestral y que ha sido clave en la conservación del envidiable ecosistema y biodiversidad que tenemos en España.

¿Cómo ves el futuro de la caza a medio plazo?Lo más inmediato pasa por crear un lobby unido, fuerte y dispuesto a defender a capa y espada la caza. Pero no debemos olvidar la educación y concienciación de los propios cazadores, cuidando la imagen que damos del desarrollo de la actividad tanto en RRSS como en medios generalistas. Es fundamental saber comunicar y expresar más allá de nuestro entorno cuál es el papel de la caza, poniendo el valor que tiene para las miles de familias que viven de ella, así como la herramienta fundamental que es para la conservación de la naturaleza. Algo que de una forma modesta y sencilla pretendo mostrar a través de Cupo Libre.

¿Qué opinas de la óptica ZEISS? Hablar de ZEISS es hablar de calidad, tradición y garantía. En mi familia todos los que somos cazadores tenemos algún producto de la marca alemana. Aún recuerdo cuando acompañaba a mis tíos, en mis primeros días de caza, como con sus antiguos prismáticos y visores ZEISS abatían limpiamente sus piezas en las monterías. Más de 20 años después, alguno de ellos aún conservan en perfecto estado estas piezas.
Actualmente cazo con un ZEISS Conquest V6 2,5-15×56 ASV, que utilizo para batidas y recechos. No puedo estar más contenta. Es perfecto para la caza que practicamos en España.

Equipamiento usado

Hunting Dog Utility

Stalking

Hunting without a Dog is like Hunting in the Fog

In Germany, the law stipulates that only suitable dogs can be used for hunting. The dog’s hunting utility must be ascertained and documented in standardized tests. An interview with Paul Rößler, Professional Hunter and Certified Dog Trainer.

Which dogs can be admitted to the utility test? As a general rule, only recognized hunting dog breeds are allowed to take the test. In addition, the dog must be older than one year of age and have proof of its identity. Furthermore, the dog’s handler must be in possession of a valid hunting license.

How do I prepare my dog for the hunting utility test? Ideally, you should begin preparing when the dog is still a puppy by training it for its later tasks. It’s important that the dog already becomes familiar with a variety of game species during its youth. In general, however, there is neither a single formula that applies to all dogs nor THE one right method. Each dog-human team is unique and deserves individual consideration. However, many mistakes can be avoided from the beginning by getting professional assistance with your training, especially as a first-time handler.

How long does it take to train the dog? It makes sense to attend a hunting course for puppies when the dog is less than one year old. In the second year, you begin preparing for the test. Hunters’ associations or private dog trainers or schools offer special preparatory courses specifically for this purpose. The dog’s training isn’t finished upon passing the test. They need to recall and reinforce what they’ve learned over and over again.

What is tested exactly? The test content varies by German state – in Schleswig-Holstein, the dog’s hunting utility can be tested and determined on the basis of its respective area of application in four categories of aptitude: 1. aptitude for hunting small game (except roe deer) (Utility Test I), 2. aptitude for hunting hoofed game (UT II), 3. aptitude for foraging for hoofed game (UT III), and 4. aptitude for hunting in burrows (UT IV). The test regulations for the UT I are divided into the subjects of field work (retrieving furred game and small game) and water work (steadiness to shot, blind retrieve, and search behind a duck). In addition, obedience subjects are tested, like obedience in the field, heeling on lead, heeling off lead, down/stay, steadiness to wing, and steadiness to shot in the field.

How do you specifically prepare a dog for a driven hunt? In order to participate in driven hunts, the dog must have passed UT III, demonstrating an aptitude for foraging for hoofed game. In order to be admitted to the test, the dog must have documented that it can alert its handler. A typical task would be to send the dog from the handler’s stand into the field to independently search the area assigned to them in about ten minutes by means of a systematic, constant, and thorough search and show that they have the desire to find game. Found and escaping game must be hunted loudly until it leaves the cover. The following requirements apply differently to the search test in a wild boar enclosure: A dog is suitable for wild boar hunting if, after finding boar (which it must do within ten minutes), it remains near the boar while simultaneously alerting the handler well, or, if forced to leave, it returns to the handler and can be sent again if necessary, and if it works for at least three minutes in total without any risk to itself.

About Hounds Part 3: Puppy Love

Stalking

David Carsten Pedersen about raising his hunting dog “Mille”

She treats every human being as a potential friend and petting machine.
David Carsten Pedersen

“Can we pet your…”. Yes of course you can. She likes it. And it makes her less afraid of the big city with all its noises. Actually I though she would be more stressed out about living in the concrete jungle. I know I am. I hunger for the forest and the open spaces. But Mille seems to be right at home in the big city. She’s not afraid of sirenes. She doesn’t stress about the cars. She treats every human being as a potential friend and petting machine. Because thats how she experiences life. And through her I get to experience people in the same way.

Instead I get to enjoy the conversations. When you own a dog in the city, you quickly find out, just how many people actually miss having a dog. They all tell you about a dog they once had, the dog they left at home, or just their dream of having a dog one day. People seems to need to talk, almost as much as they need to pet puppies. So you share small stories. You enjoy each others company for a while and then you move on. And after a short walk, you end up little bit happier that the human race isn’t so bad after all. If you look at them through the eyes of a dog.

I had decided that this buck would be the first buck that the dog would try its teeth on.
David Carsten Pedersen

“Come dog” the big machine was rumbling like a sleeping bear. The dog was 9 weeks old. And she would have none of it. “Come Mille. I’ll show you something great”, fighting her urge to be with me and her fear of the big four wheeled motorcycle, she looked at me with disbelief “I’m NOT going on the thing” she implied with all her being. But I would have none of that. It picked her up gently, and put her on my lap. With one hand on the dog and one hand on the throttle, I nudged the big machine into action and gently rolled of with the dog looking up at me as if I was crazy. But I knew she would change her mind. I had something to show her.

30 minutes earlier I was standing at a tree line, looking at a small pricket buck, eating away all the foliage, less than 30 meters away. “Should have brought the bow” was the first thought that went to my head, but I had only had little time before the sun was down. Picking up my rifle instead I had stalked through the low light of the forest, happy as a boy scout. I quickly spotted a large horny owl chick, sitting in a tree less than 10 meters from me. It had to be its first time out of the nest, and it looked perplexed at me while I stalked further on through the darkening forest. The buck had been waiting for me in a clearing less than 50 meters from there. It was a small animal. A yearling that wouldn’t amount to much, and the perfect animal to take out of the gene pool. I knew I had to many roes. And that taking out this so there would be less competition for food in that area of the forest. I knew it was the right decision to take him.

I dropped the animal with one clean shot, laying it to rest under the spruce that it had beed nibbling on. I had decided that this buck would be the first buck that the dog would try its teeth on. A small buck for a small dog. It seamed right. I dragged the animal a bit towards the road and then I stopped, going back to pick up my future track dog.

Driving the ATV down to the buck took no time at all. But the puppy didn’t like it. At all. The growling machine, the bumping of the track, the strangeness of it all. But she stayed in her spot on her lap the whole way, judging me with her big puppy eyes: “This better be good dude”. I stopped the ATV where I had dragged the deer across the road and liftet the dog of my lap. “Mille” I said while clapping my breast – a signal we had been rehearsing every time we had to train. “Mille – search!” She instantly started searching the area. Up until now we had only done the search command on dog snacks, but she clearly knew what the game was all about. Puffing like a tiny steam engine she picked up the track like a magnet on steel and followed it on a straight line, right up to the deer in the bush. And then she stopped. Sniffed at the buck. She waited for my command. “Take him” I said. And she went straight for the neck. I let her have a bit rough and tumble with the deer for a minute or so, just to give her a sense of achievement. And then I loaded the deer onto the ATV, my ecstatic puppy jumping around like a kid on Christmas day. It only took one word before she jumped onto my lap again, riding proud all the way back, with the air of a lioness on a fresh kill.

External content

About Hounds Part 2: Owning a Retriever

There is no such thing as a bad dog. But you get the dog you deserve. You have to teach them to do the right thing and praise them for their success….

About Hounds Part 2: Owning a Retriever

Stalking

David Carsten Pedersen about raising his hunting dog “Mille”

I’ve seen labradors swim half a kilometer to fetch a goose out of the freezing November ocean. I’ve seen them drag deer out of the thick bush that weight twice as much as the dog. And for the last month I’ve seen my puppy retrieve anything that wasn’t nailed down. She looks so proud when she brings you a sock, a shoe or a toy. And then she sits down wagging her tail and smiles. Yes. She smiles.

“I didn’t know, an animal could love you like that”, says my wife. She never had dogs, and grew up with two big black tomcats. They were very friendly and put up with a lot of stuff. But they were cats. A cat might like you. But a dog will love you more than it loves itself. And that’s why it keeps finding stuff that smells like you, parading around with it like a pheasant.

A cat might like you. But a dog will love you more than it loves itself.
David Carsten Pedersen

There is no such thing as a bad dog. But you get the dog you deserve. There are lots of people destroying a potentially great dog, by yelling at them because the dog didn’t do what they told them to do. But dogs don’t know what they are supposed to do. You have to teach them to do the right thing and praise them for their success.

It was Milles first day of “dog school”. We had been training for the last couple of weeks, but I always knew it would be a good idea to get some professional help. It turns out it was one of the best ideas I’ve had as a dog owner. When I was a child, no one went to a dog trainer. Hunters trained their own dogs and the results were varying. Some dogs were very good. A lot of dogs were not.

I think a lot of new dog owners think, that this is how it’s done. That training a dog on your own is the only way to do it, and that you don’t need help from a professional trainer. But think about it in the same way you think about shooting.

When I was a child, no one went to a dog trainer.
David Carsten Pedersen

Hunting with an experienced old timer will teach you a lot in a short time. Shooting long range is so much easier with a good spotter at your side. And busting clays is really not that hard… If you have a great coach. Teaching your dog is the same thing. It all starts with you.

“The dogs brain is basically a computer with everything installed. You just have to find the right button and start the right program. But it’s YOU that needs to learn how to do it. Starting everything at once will stress her out.

So start slow and have fun.” So we started slow, practicing the skill of sitting down and relaxing around other dogs. Then we started walking. And sitting down. Every time she does something, she gets a snack right way. “You need to look at your dog when you give her a command. It creates a bond and makes commands easier”. Looking at Mille is not a problem. She smiles with her eyes as if she tries to tell me: “don’t worry buddy – we’ll learn it in the end. I’ll help you”.

External content

Year of the Dog – Part #1 “Difficult choices”

David Carsten Pedersen about raising his hunting dog “Mille” There is a saying in the danish hunting community: “No hunter is complete without a dog”. David Carst…

About Hounds Part 1: Difficult Choices

Stalking

David Carsten Pedersen about raising his hunting dog “Mille”

But with the final breath of my parent’s last dog (a black lab named Fenja), the era of dogs had ended. And for more than 10 years we’ve had no dogs in my family. No pattering of paws on the floor. No wet noses to greet you good morning. No oily fur smell in the car after a long hard day in the field. Not having a dog wasn’t a conscious choice though. It just kind of happened. We kept telling ourselves that we lived lives where it wasn’t practical. Too much work. Too many travels. Not enough space. Not enough time. Most hunters, who live in the city, can probably relate. We live lives, that are not geared for dogs. Or so we tell ourselves. So we make up excuses. But none of them are good enough. Because we still need our dogs.

And this year, I finally decided to take the leap of faith and get the dog I always missed. This post is the first in a collection of short stories about me, my dog and all the things you learn when a puppy enters your life and you have to teach it to be the dog of your dreams. There will be moments of frustration. Of self doubt and struggle. There will be tales of beautiful women and the hardships of having a dog in a city, where everyone wants to pet your puppy. There will be adventures and action, and insights into having your dog on a radioshow. There might even be storys of puddles in the hallway. All in all – it will be a series of what it means to have a dog. And why your life will never be the same without it.

There is a saying in the danish hunting community: “No hunter is complete without a dog”.
David Carsten Pedersen

“This is her. This is Mille.”

My wife held the sleeping puppy in her lap like a mother cradling a baby. She was sitting in the hammock, hung between two large walnut trees, gently rocking the tiny dog, while she looked at it with all the warmth of a summers day.

We were visiting the breeder of our future dog, and we had to decide, which one of the 8 tiny Labrador puppies was going to be ours. We had visited many times before and had the pleasure of seeing the tiny fur balls grow up to be tumbling toddlers with over-sized ears, legs and paws.

Oh the paws. There is nothing as cute as the paws of a puppy. Ok maybe the eyes. Or the ears. Or… well everything is cute about a puppy. Thats their major survival mechanism. It just makes it extremely difficult for anyone to choose the RIGHT puppy.

Naturally I had studied all the books. I had asked all the experts for advice. I had even heard a few methods from the police on how to find the perfect search dog. “Don’t pick the runt or the bully”. “Roll a ball to see if they show interest”. “Don’t pick the one the breeder wants to sell _ pick the one he wants to keep”.

Well everything is cute about a puppy. That’s their major suvival mechanism.

The advice were many and varied. But they didn’t solve anything. First of all, we trusted the breeder completely. My father had known the man for more than 30 years, his family was amazing with the pups, and everything about the way his own working dogs behaved, showed that he knew exactly how to breed and train just the kind of dog we wanted. We even had first pick. He would choose his own after that. We also couldn’t tell which one was the “runt or the bully”. All the puppies were very keen, super-attentive and focussed. They all wanted to be petted and never shied away from human contact. All in all, there was no “bad puppy” that we had to avoid. Any one of the dogs would be a great dog. If we took good care of them. And that was the problem. Because we still had to make the choice. And I was at a loss.

How do you choose your future best friend? In the end, the dog chose us. After playing fetch, feeding and fighting her siblings, she just walked up to my wife, snuggled up next to her, and fell asleep. She trusted us. So we had to trust in the puppy as well.

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Up Close with Deer Stalker Jim Riley

Stalking

Head of the ZEISS Centre of Excellence

Having started life as a Gamekeeper I have always loved the countryside, and hunting has always been in my blood. However, it wasn’t until I started deer stalking that I realised where my true passion lied.

Since the very first time I stalked a deer I was hooked. Not just the hunting side of things, but the deer themselves, their habits, the way they moved. It fascinated me how they could just disappear without a trace in front of my very eyes!

Hunting has always been in my blood.
Jim Riley

As a recreational Stalker, I was very lucky as I could hunt 3-4 times a week due to the fact most of my friends were Gamekeepers who had little time for deer stalking. I couldn’t think of anything else I’d rather be doing.

I then came to a crossroads in my life and had an unexpected opportunity to take on an estate that I knew well and I decided to have a change of life and pursue a different path. As a result, almost 10 years ago, DGVM (Deer, game and vermin management) was formed and the clients soon started to flow.

Then, after a chance call to ZEISS who were located near to me in Cambridge, I found myself as a ZEISS Pro Stalker – I had always loved their products anyway so it was hardly a difficult choice to make.

Once I started to stalk everything else took second place.
Jim Riley

Jim Riley: Behind The Rifle

Join ZEISS Pro Stalker Jim Riley for a wander around the ZEISS Centre of Excellence. Discover how Jim found his passion for hunting and why ZEISS optics are his first choice, every time!

Over time and through the many stalking clients I was taking out, along with the students who were attending training courses at my facilities, it became quite apparent that there were very little facilities that were similar where a potential client could go to actually try the products before they bought them. It was this eureka! moment where the idea of a Centre of Excellence was first born.

The concept was simple. Potential clients, regardless of whether they were my own or a referral from our extensive dealer network, would have the ability to actually come and shoot the scope they are interested in on an actual range (or out on a stalk) rather than simply reading about it online or seeing it in a glass cabinet. Furthermore, either they could purchase the scope at that time from myself on site, or purchase it from their dealer and head straight over to have the scope fitted to the rifle, zeroed on the range and ready to hunt that same evening!

As well as running the Centre of Excellence, I also travel around the UK accompanying ZEISS to various trade shows, including both the British and Northern Shooting Shows. I find this resonates well with the public as I have the advantage of first-hand hunting experience and knowledge on the subject, rather than just extensive product knowledge.

In addition to this, we have also hosted many of the product launch days, where both the Press and our Dealer network are able to put the new products through their paces on the range!

So, what’s my favorite product?
Jim Riley

For me I never stalk without my RF binoculars, I had the old model for many years, but have recently got had my hands on the new Victory Rangefinders that were launched earlier 2018. It has greatly improved, with noticeably better light transmission and less weight to carry. You can’t beat being able to accurately get the distance to the target, the client can’t argue with the facts and when I say it’s too far they have to agree as the ZEISS RF is never wrong!

Then for a scope, for me it boils down to two, either the V6 2.5-15×56 or the V8 4.5-35×60. I normally shoot with a Blaser, so the rail mount option of the Victory V8 is an absolute dream to mount and dismount, reducing the time and hassle of having to re-zero the rifle every time. The optical quality, light transmission and build quality put this scope at the top of my list.

Equipment used

Crow Hawking

Stalking

Sandra Jung and Harris Hawk Dexter on the Hunt

The crow hunting season begins in August. I am an avid fan of this type of hunting, which I carry out with Dexter, my tercel Harris’ hawk. Falconers refer to male hawks as tercels because they are a third (Latin: tertium) smaller than their female counterparts on average.In the context of wild bird hunting, tercels are able to help us falconers because of their lower body weight, which makes them more agile.

Crows are very clever and skilful in the air, and they fly quickly. In order to give my buzzard Dexter at least a decent chance against these black birds, I give him some speed from the car.
Sandra Jung

It is important not to confuse the flight of a Harris’ hawk with that of a hawk. Hawks are much better suited to crow hunting because they have a different wing shape. They are naturally faster and more agile than buzzards.

However, a key advantage of the Harris’ hawk is its origin and background: as a native of Central America, it is not ‘known’ to our native crows. When Dexter takes off from the car and heads for a group of crows, they often fail to understand immediately the danger that is flying towards them. That is a great advantage for Dexter.

The situation is quite different for hawks, as they are one of the main enemies of crows in Germany. For this reason, corvids notice a hawk instantly – they call out a warning and initiate an escape.

You need a large, sprawling area to hunt crows with a bird from a moving car. Crows are incredibly intelligent animals: they often recognise vehicles and drivers from a distance after just one aerial hunt. For that reason, it can be highly advantageous to choose different grounds from time to time and to use another vehicle.

Once Dexter takes off from the car, he immediately starts chasing crows perched in the right position. A fascinating spectacle of nature can be observed at this point: Dexter often goes for a bird in the group that is not the one I believe to be the best choice at first sight. Why should that be so? Over time, I have learnt that the animals Dexter chases and catches in a fraction of a second as they take flight are sick, weak, or inexperienced birds. In many cases, they have injured legs, damaged feathers, or the like. Hunting with a bird of prey therefore results in an ideal selection process that is not possible to the same extent for human hunters: sick or otherwise weak birds are removed from nature, helping to maintain a healthy wildlife stock.

Most hunting flights are a spectacle to behold. Many crows are late in perceiving Dexter as a threat. They take off after a long delay and try to escape the aerial hunter – already very close – by flying in agile loops, suddenly dropping in altitude, changing speed or carrying out other flight manoeuvres. Of course, the Harris’ hawk tries to follow these acrobatics. He is often successful, but not not always. Dexter stands no chance if the crow is too smart and experienced.

If one of these fascinating hunting flights is successful, I let the dog out to sprint to the bird. It is common for the other group members to resent the buzzard with his prey. Balu, my bird dog, therefore rushes up to his partner and keeps the other crows off his back.

Crows are very defensive, and their pointed beaks can make them dangerous for a sitting bird of prey. You could consider the dog to be the buzzard’s bodyguard.
Sandra Jung

If I get to the bird myself, I may take hold of the captured crow and help Dexter get to the meat by plucking some feathers. Dexter can then fill his crop on his prey – a turn of phrase we falconers use to mean that he can eat as much as he likes. This is the perfect end to the positive experience of a successful hunting flight: the bird will happily give his all next time to ensure a bountiful hunt.

Since these hunting flights use up a great deal of energy (and there may be unsuccessful attempts before the prey is caught), it is essential that hunting birds are in excellent physical condition. If they are not well fed, well trained and muscular, a few failed flights can lead to absolute exhaustion. That would lead to a bird being unable to hunt because he is too weak. This must not happen. Daily weight checks are essential when it comes to checking that hunting birds have a healthy constitution.

At the end of a successful day’s hunting, the bird can return to the aviary and enjoy some fresh water. Only if a bird of prey has everything it needs will it remain willing to work with a human partner. For me personally, the greatest happiness on earth is to go hunting with a bird and a dog in the knowledge that you form an unbeatable team with these animals.

Equipment used

External content

Falconry: The Masters of the Sky

Sandra Jung is the youngest falconer in Germany. In this interview, she shares what we can learn from wild animals in her book, The Masters of Sky and Me….

Reliable Hunting Equipment

Tech Know-How

The miracle of nature through the lens

For me, there is no typical hunting family tradition and I was not educated in hunting as a child. I just had a couple of friends who took me to a farm in the region, and they just happened to hunt there.

After the first prey, I caught hunting fever. Only then can you understand other hunters. Over time, my hunting passion has increased. But more than anything else I wanted to be outside as often as possible.

As a photographer, nature is part of my life. For the past five years I have had the opportunity to hunt and work for the most well-known giants of the outdoors branch.

Hunting is much more than shooting game. It is about the experience, where it leads you, and with whom you share it.
Austin Thomas (24 years)

Each week I am outside between four and six days – for hunting or shooting pictures. Most often I go after white tailed deer or turkey. The shy white tailed deer has become a real obsession of mine because it’s the game species that is the most difficult to hunt in the Midwest. It is less about the prey than about the hunting experience itself. You can’t forget it.

You look for trips in the summer; look through your still hunt pictures; think about where you could best build a perch; check the wind conditions; and pay attention to all of the small details that play a major role in the world of the white tailed deer. Which tricks do you use to eliminate your own scent because the white tail deer will get wind of you if you can’t command the game of the winds.

I am a real nerd when it comes to equipment.

I am infatuated with reliable equipment which can also take a beating and can be counted upon when it matters. An excellent hunting scope is essential for me. Whether that is for observing the velvety white tail deer in the summer or being able to distinguish between the mature animals from the young ones in the twilight.

I think ZEISS represents the culture of hunting in the correct manner and offers the best glass in the business.

I don’t have any dreams for the future. Only goals. And they are simple: I want to enjoy the small things outside in nature. When I am old and wise I would like to look back on my life and see that hunting and the experience with nature helped me to become the man that I am.

Equipment used

Portrait of a Young Huntress

Stalking

Anything but typical L.A.

The way in which we hunt depends on varying game species, regions, hunting cultures and hunting techniques. But the passion and delight of being out in nature is the same everywhere in the world.

For our article, we talked to three young hunters from very different corners of the world about their first hunting experiences, how they got into hunting and what hunting means to them today. Episode #1 is about Brittany Boddington, author and television host in Los Angeles.

My father is a hunter but I did not grow up hunting with him. I didn’t discover my passion for hunting until after high school when I began traveling and fell in love with the beauty and variety of species in nature. I was raised in Southern California where hunting is not a popular activity and my childhood friends did not understand my father’s hunting.

My first hunt was for a wild boar in central California. I told my dad I wanted to start hunting but he was not convinced that I would be able to pull the trigger so he decided to take me on a wild boar hunt because they are not cute or cuddly animals and he thought it might be a bit easier for me.

We were set up on a ridge when the pigs came over the top of the opposing hillside and my dad told me to shoot the one with the black spot. I took aim and waited until the pigs paused for a moment and I shot. My dad looked at me and asked if I was okay. I could see the concern on his face but I answered back with only excitement, “Is it down? Can we go see?”.

I was so happy when we found the wild boar and my shot had gone exactly where I wanted. I was proud of myself for the success but I was also thankful to the animal for the meat I would get to take home to my family and enjoy with my friends.

I feel like these experiences give me perspective on life and help me understand what is important.
Brittany Boddington

Hunting is not just my passion or pastime, it is my way of life. Everything I do is in preparation for my next hunting adventure. I feel most alive when I’m hunting and outdoors in remote areas.

I feel like these experiences give me perspective on life and help me understand what is important. Hunting makes me a more patient person. It makes me think before I act.

My hunting days are anything but typical because I am usually in a new place hunting a different species than I have ever hunted before but some things stay the same. I always double check that I have all my important gear and make sure that all my equipment is in good shape. I always clean and check my optics to make sure that there is no dust or debris that would prevent me from being able to make the best shot possible.

I suppose I dream of hunting everything there is to hunt all over the world but I also dream of a world that accepts hunting as a necessity for the preservation of animals and doesn’t think of it as taboo.

I still learn new things on every adventure and I feel that I grow as a person on every trip.
Brittany Boddington