BOOKSHELF with Syd Wigzell  in the Arms & Militaria Collector No. 27

The Range Officers Handbook

This book is outside our usual domain for reviews in the ‘Collector’, however Ron Owen is a well-known firearms identity in Australia and with so many more enthusiasts shooting historical and collector rifles today, it is also more relevant here.

Chapters define the criteria which are much wider ranging than one would expect, from just judging by its title. These are: The Club, a Range officers duties and responsibilities, Acting as instructors, Bullet performance relative to understanding its flight, Shotgun patterns and Safe carriage.

Chapter four introduces Cleaning, Bore blockages, Climate affecting shooting and ammunition, Muzzle-loaders, Recoil, Accuracy, Shooting positions, Handgun and shotgun applications, Eyesight and sights, Optics, Windage and drift, Reloading, Signs of pressure, Propellants, Cartridges, Cases, ballistics, Wind, training and fitness, Air powdered arms, Various British makers and Old for New Information.

And after all of this reading, eight chapters, there is a comprehensive glossary followed by a massive index of 18 pages. Perhaps it would be more aptly titled as a Firearms Encyclopaedia.

Ron Owen has never been noted for being politically correct and this is reflected in some parts of the text along with captions. The reader’s interest is maintained with so many useful tips from a lifetime of shooting experience. Some chapters digress in their subject material and tend to take off at tangents, but the index logs the subject matter anyway.

Ron emigrated to Australia from England decades ago; much of his wry Celt humour is evident in this entertaining compilation. With all sales and proceeds donated to the Queensland Indoor Air Rifle Association, a dual purpose is served in getting your own copy order via www.owenguns.com

Retail Price $75.

plus Australia Wide Postage $10 as it weighs over 2 Kg.