Tackle And Guns August 2015

Shooting show IWA chases tackle firms p03

Dave Box retires from Veals mail order p06

Best foot forward with the top boots to stock p28

AUGUST 2015

BRITAIN’S ONLY MONTHLY SHOOTING & FISHING TRADE PUBLICATION

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AUGUST 2015

BRITAIN’S ONLY MONTHLY SHOOTING & FISHING TRADE PUBLICATION

IWA gun show looks at tackle sector

T

he international shooting and outdoor event, IWA, could be on a collision course with European tackle show EFTTEX as it looks to bring fishing companies into its

event. IWA OutdoorClassics, as it is known, is renowned as being one of the largest shooting, hunting and outdoor exhibitions in the world (second only to the SHOT Show in the USA). The event, which is more than 40 years old, attracted almost 1,400 exhibitors and 41,500 trade-only visitors from 121 countries across nine halls in Nuremberg over four days in March. Now, though, the organisers – who also operate the sprawling venue, NürnbergMesse – are openly encouraging tackle suppliers to its show. The 2015 event already included big tackle names DAM and Fladen Fishing but, buoyed by their success, the organisers want to attract

more and have booked advertising in T&G’s international sister title Tackle Trade World, as well as Fishing Tackle Retailer in the USA to try and achieve that goal. NürnbergMesse’s public relations director Guido Welk explained: “[Remember that] the full title of our show is IWA OutdoorClassics – it covers a lot more than hunting and sports shooting and we believe that tackle is an important part of ‘classical outdoor activities’.” Indeed, IWA currently embraces everything from guns and ammunition to accessories, plus knives, clothing, archery, airsoft, law enforcement and security, climbing gear, watches, reflective clothing, books, magazines and DVDs. Jesper Bach Sørensen, managing director of top tackle brand DAM, spoke to T&G during IWA 2015 about his company’s presence. He revealed: “I have seen a great deal of potential here, talked to plenty of people and there is a good crossover; having fishing-tackle

companies here could certainly work and we had a very productive show. “I will need to go through al the post-show feedback and enquiries but I am pretty sure we would consider coming back again next year.” Intriguingly, as T&G went to press, a flyer arrived from IWA OutdoorClassics 2016 headed: “Completely new possibilities are opening up here.” Along with the dates – March 4th to 7th, 2016 – the card also contains the tagline: “Diversity is in our nature…” So far there has been no official comment from the European Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA), which organises the EFTTEX tackle trade exhibition each June and is likely to be put under pressure from IWA. Ironically, the NürnbergMesse staged the EFTTEX show back in 1993 when EFTTA took the event to Germany, just three months after IWA. www.tandgmagazine.com

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03

13/07/2015 10:45

COMMENT

John Hunter

Making the right connection

I

am interested to learn that the team behind IWA, the massive international shooting trade show in Nuremberg each March, is openly courting tackle manufacturers. The event has continued to expand and embrace new market sectors over the years and currently welcomes almost 1,400 exhibitors and, crucially, more than 41,500 visitors from 121 countries (according to the figures for the 2015 show) across nine halls over four days. By contrast, the European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition (EFTTEX), which travels to a different country each year, saw 205 exhibitors and co-exhibitors from 24 countries and attracted 1,553 visitors over three days in two halls. It should be stated that, globally, the fishing-tackle trade is nowhere near the size of the gun industry – the combined ICAST sportfishing show and International Fly Tackle Dealer show in the USA is still significantly small than the SHOT Show over there. But clearly the NürnbergMesse, which runs IWA, feels that it can take some of EFTTEX’s exhibitors and attendees and grow its own event even more. It is understandable really… NürnbergMesse’s public relations director Guido Welk reminded me that, of course, the full title of the March show is IWA OutdoorClassics and it embraces

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everything from guns and ammunition to accessories, plus knives, clothing, archery, airsoft, law enforcement and security, climbing gear, watches, reflective clothing, books, magazines and DVDs. Last year there were a couple of major tackle companies that did turn out at IWA, notably DAM from Germany (part of the giant Svendsen Sport group) and Fladen fishing from Sweden. DAM’s Jesper Bach Sorensen told me he was very happy with the reaction to his firm’s attendance and was already planning for 2016. It will be interesting to see if the move draws any sort of reaction from EFTTEX organisers, the European Fishing Tackle Trade Association (EFTTA). It is not the first time it has faced competition from others who feel they could take market share. The NürnbergMesse is a massive organisation that puts on some of the biggest industry events in Europe, if not the world. Here in the UK, of course, thanks to this magazine and our very own T&G Trade Show we know full well that the two industries are intrinsically linked. And we have embraced anyone keen to sell products into these markets – from finance and retail solutions firms to lighting suppliers, portable power firms and general outdoor equipment makers. To be a continual success, we all need to diversify and look ahead. I can’t wait for IWA 2016!

John Hunter

Caroline Mandaracas

Editor

Business Development Manager

Tel: 01327 315412 Mob: 07990 542958 E: [email protected]

Tel: 01245 607231 Mob: 07738 457110 E: [email protected]

14/07/2015 16:41

CONTENTS

CONTENTS

AUGUST 2015

BRITAIN’S ONLY MONTHLY SHOOTING & FISHING TRADE PUBLICATION NEWS IN BRIEF 06 Dave Box retires from Veals Mail Order company 08 Shimano welcomes Gary Lee as UK managing director 10 Royal Berkshire Shooting School unveils fishing plans 12 Alan Paine moves ahead with new HQ and agents 14 ELEY opens test facility in Norway 16 COAST turns up power with product and marketing 18 Angling gets its voice back in Parliament

REGULARS 20 Letters 22 Bygone Days 23 Business Matters 24 Retailer Survey 42 Secret Shopper 50 Products In Focus 66 Parting Shot, by Sean O’Driscoll

FEATURES 26 Flying The Flag: Radical Angling Developments 28 On The Market: Footwear 32 Flying The Flag: Andy Duncan 34 What’s new from Seeland and Harkila? 40 Tronix unveils new gear with expert help 44 Why Vass’ 305 waders can always be relied on 46 Pole Doctor to the rescue for repairs 62 Leica looks ahead with product testing event www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 16:41

NEWS POINT OF CONTACT Useful numbers for your business

Gun Trade Association (GTA) Tel: 01684 291868 Fax: 01684 291864 [email protected] www.guntradeassociation.co.uk

Angling Trades Association (ATA) Tel: 0333 577 9970 www.anglingtradesassociation.com Handing over: As Dave Box (left) retires, Harrry Brake takes on the role of managing director at Veals Mail Order.

British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) Tel: 01244 573000 Fax: 01244 573001 [email protected] www.basc.org.uk

Angling Trust Tel: 0844 7700616 Fax: 0115 981 9039 [email protected] www.anglingtrust.net

Countryside Alliance Tel: 0207 840 9200 Fax: 0207 793 8484 [email protected] www.countryside-alliance.org

Salmon & Trout Association Tel: 0207 283 5838 Fax: 0207 626 5137 [email protected] www.salmon-trout.org

Crimestoppers Tel: 0800 555 111 www.crimestoppers-uk.org

06

Veals retirement keeps it in the family The man behind successful tackle giant Veals Mail Order – Dave Box – has retired after 50 years in the trade, with his successor keeping the firm in the family. Dave, who started his career as a work-experience placement in 1965 at Sportsman’s of Bristol, has handed over the Veals reins to Harry Brake, the 25-yearold grandson of the late Mike Salisbury, the one-time owner of S Veals & Sons. Dave joined the tackle dealer back in 1985 and seven years later helped set up Veals Mail Order, which was one of the first dedicated mail-order fishing firms, and, along with Bennetts of Sheffield, set up the UK’s first website selling fishing gear. Under Dave’s guidance, Veals also pioneered the importation of overseas brands such as super braids from the USA, soft jelly eels and specialist lure gear from Japan. Dave explained: “The company really was – and still is – at the forefront of fishing-tackle

retailing. But our success has been founded on dedicated and experienced staff – many of whom have been here pretty much since the start and most of whom do actually go fishing – not to mention our award-winning customer service. “We try to treat our customers as we would like to be treated and always put customer service at the top of our priority list.” Dave admits that the decision to concentrate on mail-order sales ruffled a number of feathers in the industry at the time, but says that adapting to survive is key to any firm‘s success. He added: “The industry has really changed over the last 50 years in so many ways, but the big changes are probably the shift from UK manufacturing to China and the Far East and, of course, the rise of the internet.” Now, though, as he retires, Dave is relishing the prospect of finding more time to go fishing. New managing director Harry

Brake, who started at the company almost 10 years ago, is delighted to be heading up the family firm, which was not only started by his grandfather but also counts his mum and his uncle as key players. The keen sea angler, with a string of impressive catches to his name, said: “I’ve been fortunate to have been here since I was 16 and have been able to watch everything as it has happened, seeing how the company has grown and giving me ideas about how to continue that growth. “Veals has a great reputation for good service, and that will remain our highest priority. Most of the staff have been here for at least 15 years and are also keen anglers – as am I.This is important because I believe you have to be out there doing it in order to be able to talk about it with customers. “The customer service will always be key, but we have some other plans, too, to push the business further ahead, especially when it comes to our website.”

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 10:48

NEWS

Win more matches with innovative video mag A brand-new monthly digital video magazine designed to bring viewers the information they need to win more matches is taking the angling world by storm. Each issue of Match Fishing Live focuses on following a star angler through five hours of competition, to see how they each approach different pegs, species and tactics while facing the continual challenges that match fishing throws at you. The first edition featured 51 pages and a 36-minute video following star match angler, Shimano and Dynamite-backed Rob Wootton. Put together by the DHP Match Fishing team of editor Alex Bones and assistant editor Joe Carass, the venture has no printed issues, instead featuring a HD video packed with action and match-winning advice along with an e-mag outlining the finer points of the session, plus a more detailed look at the rigs and bait used. Alex said: “Although a relatively slow-grower in angling, the digital side is imperative to

the future of DHP as a company. “Match Fishing Live works independently of Des Shipp’s Think Fishing and Pole Fishing’s Pole Fishing Plus title. All of these new digital video magazines have injected excitement and enthusiasm – Joe and I really enjoy putting it together. “However, top-notch information in an easy-to-digest fashion is what it’s all about. Any viewer can sit back and enjoy the video across multiple platforms – be it laptop, tablet or smartphone – but there’s also a striking digital magazine that mirrors the information for easy reference. “It’s all about capturing the exact approaches that a star angler is making under match conditions and, crucially, why they’re making the decisions they do. Never before has there been a way to get so up

close and personal with the stars of the match fishing world.” Joe added: “As an angler representing the younger side of our audience, it’s undeniable that nearly all of the information I now receive is through digital media. “What could be better than working with the biggest and best names to help any match angler, regardless of ability, improve their results? “So far, the overwhelmingly positive comments indicate that this is the future – it’s a far more interactive and informative way of getting the very best information possible to our end consumer.” Issue two, which has just gone live, follows Garbolino star and former England international Darren Cox, as he fishes a weekend match on a venue he’s never even seen before.The aim of the game is to catch bream… but does he succeed? Each issue costs just £2.99 with subscriptions also available.

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Lead shot – what next? Four of those who broke away from the Lead Ammunition Group have submitted their own report to Government on the use of lead in shooting. The four – including Sir Barney White-Spunner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance and Gun Trade Association director John Batley – quit the LAG after disagreeing with chairman John Swift. The chairman has tabled his own report, which the breakaway group had refused to be associated with, to the Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Sir Barney explained: “Following my resignation from the LAG a few weeks ago, I promised that we were in no way moving away from the issue. “Two LAG reports have now been presented to Defra.The first by the chairman, John Swift, is the same report over which we raised over 170 comments and with which we refused to be associated, hence the resignation from the LAG. “A second report has now been tabled by the now four ex-members. As well as the Countryside Alliance, this new group includes the Gun Trade Association, National Game Dealers Association

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and the Country Land and Business Association, with the support of the British Association of Shooting and Conservation. “Our report has made full use of all available scientific material, reached balanced and objective conclusions, and we have made a series of recommendations to Defra based on the evidence presented rather than on any previously held positions as regards the use of lead. “We will release the full report in due course once Defra is happy for us to do so.The reports are both now with Defra and it is for its officials to decide how to take the matter forward and how to deal with the fractured Lead Ammunition Group. However, we feel quietly confident that the decision from Defra will allow us to continue to move this debate cohesively forward.”

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MAP website is more than a match Milton Keynes-based match fishing brand MAP has unveiled its new consumer website, www.mapfishing.co.uk. Site visitors can detailed product information, HD product videos, news and blogs from top anglers, plus a forthcoming features section. Categorised to make navigation super-simple, the website is based around a clean, modern look that has been optimised for mobile use on tablets and smartphones. One key difference from the previous MAP website is the online-purchasing function. Based around the tried-andtrusted Shopatron checkout platform, it allows visitors to purchase MAP products online, fulfilled through the brand’s dealer network. With one-click delivery options and store pickup, this system is designed to drive more business to Leeda retailers that sign up, bringing additional sales. Shopatron is a system trusted worldwide by brands such as Suzuki, Ducati, K2 Skis and Mizuno. To give MAP dealers prime ‘real estate’ on the website, there’s a dealer-locator function complete with contact details, helping to further raise awareness of the retailernetwork’s status as official MAP stockists. Pat MacInnes, Leeda’s marketing manager, said: “We see this new website as the perfect accompaniment to our digital and on-the-page marketing channels. “We have a huge dealer network so the website’s other key function is to help drive business to our loyal retailers through the Shopatron checkout system, enabling retailers who sign up to benefit from additional business.” ❱❱ For info contact jon. [email protected]

08

Shimano Normark UK appoints new managing director New MD Gary Lee.

Jon Wake is now handling the East Midlands area.

The UK division of fishing-tackle giant Shimano has appointed a new managing director. Gary Lee, who has previous experience running UK subsidiaries of several major global brands, including eyewear name Oakley, has been appointed with immediate effect. Speaking at this year’s EFTTEX show in Warsaw, Poland, Gary said: “I am experienced in this kind of position and I am excited to be part of the fishingtackle industry – which has some similarities with the outdoor industries I was previously involved in, but also some unique characteristics. “When I was working for Oakley UK, I paid many visits to its US headquarters in Irvine, California, which coincidentally is where Shimano North America has been based for many years too. “It is an exciting challenge and one I look forward to. Shimano is a premium global brand and I am

proud to be a part of its global reach.” Gary will head up Shimano’s UK operation, which is a joint partnership with Finnish lure giant Rapala and also includes Dynamite Baits, G Loomis, Power Pro and Carp Spirit. Meanwhile, the company has also promoted Jon Wake to the position of sales representative for the East Midlands territory from his current position at Shimano Normark UK Ltd. Jon has worked for the company since April 2006 within telesales and customer services, where he has developed good relationships with new and existing customers. ❱❱ If you are looking to open an account in the East Midlands area, Jon can be contacted via e-mail at [email protected]

Wholesale website offers cards and gifts Shooting and country-pursuits photographer Charles Sainsbury-Plaice has unveiled a wholesale website with an exclusive offer for retail outlets. Dealers can now find everything they need from Charles’ extensive portfolio of country gifts and cards in one place at cspgreetings.manifesthq.com. The new website will make it easier for retailers to order CSP’s high-quality, UK-made, rural-themed greetings cards, notecards, tablemats, coasters, glass platters, gift wraps, wine bottle bag and unique range of Noisy Greeting Cards. To celebrate the launch, all new retailers who register and place orders for stock of over £150 (excluding VAT) will receive a free gift of 20 Charles Sainsbury-Plaice A5 greetings cards with a retail value of £90.

❱❱ For more information, to register or place an order, visit https://cspgreetings.manifesthq.com or contact [email protected]

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 10:50

NEWS DANISH QUALITY SINCE 1958

Sharp deal for hook maker Reuben Heaton has strengthened its long-term agreement with Wright & McGill (Eagle Claw) for distribution of the firm’s brands in the UK. Both parties met at the European Fishing Tackle Trade Exhibition (EFTTEX) to shake hands on a deal that sees Reuben Heaton’s continued involvement in the UK distribution of brands including Eagle Claw, Lazer Sharp and Trokar. Having already been involved in the development of carp and specialist hook patterns under the Trokar

brand, Reuben Heaton will continue to assist in the development of new products specifically aimed at the UK and wider European market. Retailers will get their first look at the new Trokar carp patterns (such as the Trokar Chod Hook pictured) at this year’s Tackle & Guns Trade Show in October, where Reuben Heaton will be launching the full 2016 Eagle Claw range. ❱❱ Reuben Heaton, RH and Eagle Claw brands can be accessed on 01455 293000 or via [email protected]

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VEGA enters UK market Portuguese fishing-tackle brand VEGA is set to enter a new international market after agreeing a distribution deal for the UK. UK firm Connect U will be VEGA’s official distributor in the country and will be supplying its predominantly sea fishing-oriented fishing tackle to its retail network here. Based in Kent and specialising in sea fishing, Connect U has been distributing different brands in tackle shops not only in the UK but in Belgium and the Netherlands as well. “We were seeking new brands to introduce into the markets in which we operate,”said Richard Yates, the company’s commercial manager and longtime member of the English national shore fishing team. “We addressed VEGA because we wanted to work with a brand that would allow us to develop our own product line, besides having an already extensive, market-tested collection.” Richard expects the introduction to be successful, since the company has a distribution network already set up across the UK and is preparing a series of sponsorships to raise brand awareness. VEGA managing director Jorge Mourinho added: “The experience that Connect U has in recreational and competitive fishing, and its experience in sales across the country, means that our representation in the UK will maintain all the main VEGA assets: quality, development of market-specific products and technical support.”

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13/07/2015 10:50

NEWS

Indicator magazines now available BSA has made its synthetic airgun magazines with lastshot indicator available to buy individually. The multi-shot products will not only prove to be a significant improvement to the firm’s existing multi-shot rifles but also use a self-contained indexing system to simplify everything. Instead of the magazine indexing being linked to the trigger pull, it is now completely enclosed within the magazine so that it automatically rotates one chamber as soon as the bolt is pulled back. Not only does this improve reliability and enhance the trigger function but it also increases safety because the magazine always reverts to the last empty chamber, so if you cannot see a pellet, the chamber is empty. This new-style magazine works in all BSA multi-shot models and can even be used in any earlier models that would have used the old-style magazines. Each magazine is colourcoded for calibre – blue for 4.5mm, red for 5.5mm and black for 6.35mm. They are knurled to make them easier to rotate, even when your hands are cold or when wearing gloves. Each chamber is also numbered so the shooter can see at a glance how many shots are left. ❱❱ To find out more contact BSA Guns (UK) at sales@ bsaguns.com or visit www. bsaguns.co.uk

10

Shooting ground plans fishing school too The Royal Berkshire Shooting School (RBSS) has drawn up plans to add a fishery complex to its venue, comprising an entire river system from source to estuary. The organisation is currently gathering public support after submitting a planning application to West Berkshire Council for a unique teaching facility for all the family. It wants to create a series of lakes and waterways within the valley, with the flow being created through a series of pumps and Archimedes’ screws to transfer the head of water. If successful, visitors will be able

Luke Nash, Remington UK managing director (left) and Corry Doyle of Remington Arms Company USA.

to learn how to Spey cast on the equivalent of the upper reaches of the River Dee, through to the River Itchen, on moving water with a variable flow – with a variety of pools and river depths. There would also be a purposebuilt fishing lodge – described in the plans as an educational and welfare facility – to house lectures and presentations, offering the opportunity for local schools and colleges to learn about river ecology and water management. At the same time, RBSS is also applying to build two underground rifle ranges, 100 metres long, using state-of-the-art technology to

capitalise on the increase in individuals wishing to take up stalking and use rifles. The organisation has been encouraging members, visitors and the public to write to West Berkshire Council in support of the initiative. RBSS’ Dylan Williams said: “Fingers crossed we will be successful in establishing our own equivalent of Salmon Fishing In The Yemen!”

left to right: Mike Skinner, Angie Skinner, Phil Coulson, Lee Harkness, Robyn Jepp and Kirsty Beach.

Remington feels the need for Speed Gunmaker Remington entered a different type of sport at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, backing a key driver. Former NASCAR Camping World Truck Series champion Mike Skinner, also known as ‘The Gunslinger’ for his passion for shooting Remington shotguns, was competing at the event and even had a transfer of the Remington Versa Max on the back window.

The Remington UK team were joined by Corry Doyle, senior vice-president of consumer products at Remington Arms Company USA, so he could meet Mike, along with Luke Nash, managing director of Remington UK, to enjoy the fast and furious racing from the trackside. Despite Mike damaging his Remington truck when it made contact with the chicane during Saturday morning practice, he

was able to enter the final round of competition driving the 10th Toyota Tundra race car ever built. He paced the race against the clock for the NASCAR division to beat the record time he set in 2014, clocking a 50.22 second lap and was identified as the Driver Of The Day, making for a storybook ending for the American driver on his birthday.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:12

NEWS

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I

wonder, how many of you gather customer data? Not just those who purchase shotguns, rifles and airguns but what about all your other customers? If you wanted to buy a mailing list of potential customers, it would cost you a fortune. Even if a database of people who go shooting and fishing was easily available, which it isn’t really, would it be cost-effective? So think for a moment, how many people walk into your shop each year or onto your stand at the many shows and events, and how many of those do you see on a regular basis? Similarly, for those of you who sell online too, how much customer information do you gather? And if you do gather contact information, what do you do with it?

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Working smarter May I suggest that the majority of businesses are not that good at gathering data nor using it properly afterwards; and I dare say most of you reading this will take some persuading to change what you do. Okay, accepting the need to comply with the Data Protection Act and, of course, all the rules as set out by the Information Commissioner’s Office, the data we can all gather is immensely useful. Many of us will spend lord knows how much on advertising in magazines for new customers but how much do we spend advertising to our own customers and our own prospects? Keeping in regular touch with customers and prospective customers is vital. Why? Well look at it this way… customers only buy what they want or what they need and will only buy these things when they want or need to – sounds like a bit of a tongue twister but you get my gist. So, unless you keep in regular contact with your customers or prospects, the next time they want or need to buy a bit of kit it’s pretty much pot luck if they come to see you – are they as likely to go to the shop they have just passed or the advert they have just seen? What’s stopping you writing or e-mailing your existing customer/ prospect database? Try it, it’s low cost and can be very effective. The trick is always to have a good ‘hook’ to the message, such as the latest product, a special discount, a tin of pellets with an airgun, a small pack of floats with a rod, a box of shells with a shotgun or even a free cup of coffee! One of the best hooks is an offer they cannot refuse! How about offering interest-free credit on their next purchase with you? If you are a BASC trade member, in the VERY near future we will be contacting you with the excellent news that you will be able to apply for credit-giving facilities though our new trade partner.

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NEWS

Endurance launch heralds rebrand Hawke Optics has introduced the first of its new binocular ranges as part of its re-brand with the Endurance ED, offering enhanced light transmission and a product designed to battle the elements. Focusing on performance and functionality with 12 models, all feature fully multi-coated lenses with extra-low dispersion glass and phase-corrected BAK-4 roof prisms producing a sharp, high-resolution image and reduced colour fringing. Being water and fogproof and with a high-grip outer, the Endurance ED can be used in all weather conditions. Offered in a choice of 32mm, 42mm and 50mm objectives, each is encased in a lightweight body and available in either a green or black finish. Hawke’s technical manager, Alex Jenkinson, said: “This is a strong, advanced range offering a product designed to endure, while still providing a crisp, clear image with exceptional depth of field. You will not be surprised that the Endurance ED is head and shoulders above all competition in its price range.”

Alan Paine unveils new office, agent and more Heritage-clothing brand Alan Paine has moved its head office to larger premises to cope with the growing business from its successful Country Collection. The brand last moved offices five years ago but, in the light of continued growth, managing director James Hinton wanted the business to cater for future demand, with better facilities and improved warehouse capacity. The new office is just two miles away from its previous location. The brand has also appointed agent Keith Barker to offer its Country Collection to the north of England. His Barker Countrywear firm represents a portfolio of top-quality complementary brands. Keith takes over from Simon Parry, who has done a good job developing the brand in this area. Keith’s background has been largely in the Scottish knitwear industry, having started a small knitwear-manufacturing business with his father in the mid-1990s, which found a successful little niche in the UK selling to many ‘country’ outlets. He travelled the length and breadth of the country with his knitwear, selling to customers who have, over the years, become good friends. Keith said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as an agent for the Alan Paine Country Collection and very much look forward to continuing to develop the brand.” Keith will be covering County Durham, Cumbria, Derbyshire, North Yorkshire, South Yorkshire,

Northumberland and Nottinghamshire. Retailers can contact Keith on 07548 811857 or via Alan Paine’s head office. Alan Paine has also added rugby professional and keen shooter Ceri Sweeney as a brand ambassador. Having played professional rugby for 17 years, Ceri has represented Wales 35 times, having won the grand slam and Triple Crown in 2005, played in two world cups and represented the Barbarians. Ceri has a passion for all country sports, especially shooting and fishing. His interest in Alan Paine country wear was kindled when he discovered the brand’s popular Compton tweed collection. He holds both shotgun and firearm licences and particularly enjoys driven shooting and stalking deer. He also represented Wales at fly fishing last year at Lough Owel in Ireland. Other brand ambassadors include British ladies clay shooting professional Abbey Ling, Sky Sports At The Races presenter Simon Mapletoft and Jo Mapletoft, group sponsorship manager of the Arena Racing Company. ❱❱ Alan Paine’s new address is: 4A Hamilton Way, Oakham Business Park, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire NG18 5BU, and it can be contacted by phone on 01623 415765 or via e-mail at [email protected]

❱❱ Call 01394 387762 or visit www.hawkeoptics.com

Highland adds Sig Sauer Shooting distributor Highland Outdoors has added another exclusive UK agency to its portfolio and now offers Sig Sauer’s CO2 airgun range. Among the products available are the semi-auto P226 and P250 blowback pistols, both with 16-round magazines. There’s also a selection of targets designed with CO2 guns in mind.

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Alan Paine has moved into new headquarters as it grows.

Martin moves for commercial role Daiwa salesman Martin Greene is heading north to the firm’s UK head office in Scotland, to take up the role of commercial manager. Martin has previously been on the road as a Daiwa salesman for the past 10 years and his

move to the UK head office will further strengthen the current management team as Daiwa continues to push on with its sustained sales growth in the UK, Ireland and Scandinavian sales areas. The company is currently

interviewing for a replacement to cover the sales territory incorporating Bedfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire, Norfolk and Oxfordshire.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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T&G_AllBen_Aug_15_Layout 1 26/06/2015 10:57 Page 1

NEWS

Kit out your shop with directory The Shop and Display Equipment Association (SDEA) has published a new guide to the shopfitting and display industry – the SDEA Retail Display Directory 2015/2016. Brimming with new ideas, creative concepts and innovative retail-display solutions, buyers can select from more than 100 leading designers, manufacturers and suppliers of specialist retaildisplay products and services. Literally thousands of products and services designed specifically for retail can be sourced within this comprehensive guide, from the smallest hook to an entire store fit-out, from display and point-of-sale to lighting, signage and visual merchandising.

Organised into convenient sections, the Retail Display Directory leads you quickly and easily to specialist suppliers by company, product, trade name, location, service or retail trade. There’s also exclusively commissioned editorial outlining some of the latest retail-store launches, including Hunter boots’ London flagship. SDEA is a not-for-profit industry body supporting European retail-display suppliers and offering sourcing advice through its directory, website and helpline. ❱❱ Normally priced at £10, a free copy of the directory is available to the first 50 readers who call 01883 348911 or e-mail [email protected] mentioning Tackle & Guns.

‘The Fishfinder’ launches Hell Caster lures Adventure angler Steve Townson, known as The Fishfinder, has launched his own range of lures and jigs aimed at the travelling freshwater angler targeting predatory fish. Steve, who runs South American adventure angling holiday specialist company Amazon-Angler.com, has used his years of experience fishing in far-flung destinations to hone a bespoke range of tough, colourful, hand-finished lures that he’s happy taking with him on his own trips. Steve said: “After nearly 20 years in the game and having tried out every imaginable lure on the market, I’ve finally got round to using that experience to design a full range of a dozen wooden and plastic lures in the shapes, sizes, patterns and our own colour schemes that we know will work well for our targeted Amazonian species and in other river systems around the world. “All wooden lures are sealed before any painting is done. When painting has been completed,

BECOME A TRADE MEMBER OF BASC TODAY As the largest, strongest and oldest shooting organisation in the UK we have been passionately defending shooting and conserving wildlife habitats since 1908. BASC trade membership is great value for money. It enables you to play your part in the future of our sport and provides access to an unrivalled range of benefits. We also offer you preferential packages from key suppliers to help your business:

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Trade members enjoy significant savings on parcel deliveries with BASC and Parcelforce Worldwide (including section 1 & 2 items in the UK) they’re sealed again with three layers of epoxy to create a tough, resistant finish. Our ABS plastic blanks are hand-painted to our designs and patterns and sealed with three layers of epoxy.” The Hell Caster lures – which include VMC ultra-sharp 4X O’Shaughnessy black-nickel treble hooks – sit alongside bespoke Hell Caster Razor Gang fluoro leaders, plus four-piece travel spinning rods and four-piece travel baitcasting rods, reels and other accessories suited to the globetrotting angler. There are packs of three, 10, 25 and 50 lures. Trade enquiries are welcome for these and Steve’s own range of Stevie Stinger’s buck tail jigs in eight patterns. ❱❱ For more information, e-mail [email protected]

Trade members have instant access to the highest quality UK and international parcel couriers at substantial discounts regardless of delivery volumes

When you join BASC as a trade member we will send you details of these and the other preferential packages that ALL BASC trade members have access to.

Join today – online at

www.basc.org.uk 08454 680 362

or call our membership team Monday to Friday BASC is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority ref 311937 Calls cost 5p per minute plus your phone company’s access charge

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:13

NEWS

ELEY unveils test facility in Norway Ammunition manufacturer ELEY has joined forces with its Norwegian distributor, Schou, to launch a test range at the latter’s headquarters. The rifle and pistol test facility was opened by the Norwegian national shooting team, including 67-time medal winner and shooting legend Harold Stenvaag at the Schou head office in Kløfta, Norway. The ELEY test range will be run and managed by premium firearms and ammunition supplier Schou, a long-time partner and distributor of ELEY in Norway. The facility will mean shooters from across all Nordic countries can travel and test their firearm with up to 20 different batches of ELEY Tenex – the company’s premium flagship ammunition – or ELEY Edge. Once completed, Edge stock will be available for instant purchase while Tenex batches will be shipped from the UK to

their local retailer or distributor outside Norway. Harold said: “It has taken many years but I’m really pleased that Schou and ELEY have come together and built this new test range. “Having such an excellent facility in Oslo really gives our team an advantage. In my many years of shooting I have learnt it is extremely important to have the best ammunition matched to your rifle. “The level of world-class shooting is getting better and if you don’t have the right rifle barrel and ammunition combination it can be the difference between making the final or watching your competitors win. Those 0.9 decimals soon add up.” David Barton, ELEY’s sales and marketing director, added: “It’s a strange concept for nonshooters to grasp the importance of testing ammunition. “At ELEY we often talk about the smallbore trinity – you have the shooter, the firearm and

Harold Stenvaag opens the ELEY range in Norway.

the ammunition. You need to eliminate all the possible variables you can so that you have 100 per cent confidence in your equipment. “By testing with ELEY you know you have the best ammunition and firearm match, then the rest is down to the shooter on the day. “All ELEY test facilities are facsimiles of one another and, slightly different to our competitors, not only do we test 40 shots (competitors traditionally test just 10 to 20) but we use electronic targets.

“The targets show each shot coordinate and the result is displayed by a 40-shot consolidated score using decimal places, like the ISSF scoring. “Athletes who have tested at our facilities have won 68 per cent of the Rio 2016 Olympic quota places and 76 per cent of ISSF 2015 medals so far. A new world record was set this year by Croatian shooter Snjezana Pejcic in the 50m Rifle 3P Women’s event, shooting with test-range ELEY ammunition from our Stuttgart facility.”

Big loans for your small business Getting finance from your bank can take time and often results in a declined decision but business specialist ActSmart has partnered with Amplifi Capital to make borrowing money straightforward and fast. Alternative finance options continue to help meet the demand among small businesses for finance, with around 70 per cent of small-to-mediumsized firms (SMEs) saying that they would use an alternative finance channel to raise capital, according to research by the UK Bond Network. Lending arranged through non-traditional avenues passed

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the £1 billion mark last year as banks continue to tighten their belts. The alternative finance sector has soared in popularity, at a time when two-fifths of businesses say that lack of access to finance is holding back growth. Whether you are looking to expand your business, refit your shop, improve your marketing reach and update your website or to help with cash flow during quieter seasonal month, Amplifi Capital can help with benefits including no application fees, no collateral, terms from three to 12 months, convenient daily repayments, competitive charges

and loan values from £3,500 to £100,000. The pioneering credit technologies mean a super-fast response, letting you make the most of every opportunity. It also offers automated daily repayments direct from your bank account to suit your needs and cash flow. You qualify to apply for business lending from Amplifi Capital if your business has been operating for more than six months, it accepts credit cards and is based in the UK. ActSmart subscribers are

guaranteed the highest level of customer service, face-to-face meetings and dedicated account management. ❱❱ To find out more, contact ActSmart at [email protected] or visit www.actsmart.biz

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:14

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15/07/2015 13:09

NEWS

COAST turns up the power this autumn American LED-torch brand COAST continues to woo UK dealers and customers by unveiling major upgrades to no less than 15 of its most popular products, all in time for the peak autumn/winter selling period.

Upgraded items include a wide selection of hand-held torches across all price points, with the most impressive upgrade being 58 per cent for its one-hand-focusing HP17 model. This means the light output has now increased from 615 to a massive 970 lumens, which also results in an extended 479m beam distance. Headtorches are not forgotten either, with seven of its most popular models all getting the upgrade treatment, topped by a 53 per cent upgrade

Daiwa reels in European market Daiwa has unveiled a company global first, specifically reserving the launch of its new Cast’izm BR reel to the European market first, at the EFTTEX trade show. The Cast’izm concept of a ‘mini big-pit’ reel was introduced to European customers mid-season last year, and its ground-breaking spool geometry has been a proven winner. This idea has now evolved to the Cast’izm BR – Daiwa’s first mini big-pit freespool reel. Developed in close consultation with the UK Korda team, extensive topsecret research, field testing and numerous refinements have now resulted in a highly compact, distance-casting BR.

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Full and finished samples have recently seen some action in the hands of Korda-backed carp expert Darrell Peck, who landed some wonderful fish during filming. Despite its size, the Cast’izm BR will still eat up to 107 centimetres of line in one handle turn. Also featuring the unique Mag Sealed technology, the rotor is protected from the intrusion of soluble debris and fine abrasives, resulting in longer-lasting smoothness. ❱❱ To find out more, visit www. daiwasports. co.uk

on the HL7R rechargeable model with one-hand-focus adjustment and dimmable light control. Another positive move is that all COAST headtorches are now supplied as standard with clips for optional attachment to cycle helmets, climbing helmets and safety/protection ‘hard hats’. Perhaps the best thing about all these upgrades is that there is not a penny difference in price. As if that wasn’t enough, the Polysteel range has also now arrived in the UK, offering three hand torches boasting a super-heavy-duty construction incorporating a stainless-steel

core and covered by a fibreglassreinforced polymer outer casing. A full selection of point-ofsale display packs will also be available in time for the Tackle & Guns Trade Show in October at special prices. In addition, all COAST counter packs and counter and floor-standing displays will now include 40 of the firm’s new foldout leaflets promoting the range and detailing other options. ❱❱ To find out more contact BBB Investments on 01858 410551 or visit www.bbbleisureproducts.co.uk

Outdoor Trade Show updates online presence With just a couple of months to go, more than 100 exhibitors have signed up for the 10th Outdoor Trade Show (OTS 2015), and a new website has been launched to provide visitors and exhibitors with more information. The website is simple to navigate and has the latest floor plans available to download at the touch of a button, as well as a comprehensive new exhibitorlist section, which provides the option to browse alphabetically or narrow results to indoor or outdoor exhibitors. Visitors will be able to contact exhibitors directly

or click through to their own websites for further information. There’s also a dedicated news section to keep up with the latest show updates or find out about exhibitor launches and their plans for the show. The site – www. outdoortradeshow.com – is linked to the show’s socialmedia accounts, Twitter (@ OTS2015) and Facebook (facebook.com/OTSshow), which contain regular show updates and exhibitor news. The event takes place from Tuesday to Thursday, September 15th to 17th, at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 10:59

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NEWS

New MPs set up ‘voice for angling’ Selina Scott hits headlines with clothing News reporter and broadcaster Selina Scott is making the headlines herself after unveiling a range of naturalfibre clothing. Now residing and farming in her native North Yorkshire, Selina’s venture has been picked up by the shooting retailer and wholesaler Sportsman Gun Centre. Selina is focused on creating luxury natural-fibre garments, including premium angora mohair famed for its tough, lustrous and resilient qualities and the perfect material for creating the shooter’s most important and often overlooked garment – socks. Thanks to where it exists in its natural habitat, the fleece of an Angora goat has exceptional climate-control properties, largely owing to the fact that this animal must endure extreme temperature changes as part of its existence. All this means that mohair is capable of keeping your feet cool in the height of summer yet incredibly warm in the midst of winter. It can also be washed at 40°C, which is something that a lot of other socks do not allow. Impressed and convinced by the quality of these socks, the Sportsman Gun Centre has decided to offer the full collection to its customers, including cashmere, mohair and, soon, yak. ❱❱ To find out more, call 01392 354854 or visit www. sportsmanguncentre.com

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Fishing has once again got a voice in Government after MPs re-established the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Angling. Mark Lloyd and Martin Salter of the Angling Trust were at the House of Commons to witness the moves, which saw Conservative MP for Broxbourne, Charles Walker, elected chairman for the second time. Martin Salter first set up the group in 2005 and Charles followed him as chairman when Martin retired from politics in 2010. For the last three years the post was filled by George Hollingbery MP, who has been promoted to the government whips’ office and, as a result, is no longer eligible to stand. The angling MPs come

together to receive regular briefings from the Angling Trust and others and raise issues of concern on the floor of the Commons and directly with ministers. In the last Parliament they were particularly active in pressing ministers to take action to conserve bass stocks. At the end of the meeting Martin presented Charles with honorary membership of Reading & District Angling Association (RDAA). Charles said: “It’s important that the nation’s most popular outdoor pastime has advocates in Parliament, particularly when anglers are at the forefront of campaigns for a healthier environment and cleaner rivers.” Angling Trust CEO Mark Lloyd added: “We are very

Charles Walker MP (left) with Martin Salter of the Angling Trust.

grateful to all the MPs who are involved in the Parliamentary Group for Angling. Their support for the many issues affecting fish stocks and fishing is invaluable to the Angling Trust as we have seen over the past year on bass in particular and other issues which we have raised on behalf of our membership.”

Air Arms sponsors more UKAHFT rounds Airgun manufacturer Air Arms has sponsored round five of the UKAHFT National Series at Buxted HFT in East Sussex. Rounds one to three saw the Air Arms team take top honours and the fourth round has also just taken place. Setting the ball rolling

for what is set to be a hugely successful series for the Air Arms team, the shooters have scored high in all of the previous rounds; the firm has been fortunate enough to scoop a hattrick so far in the Manufacturers Team Award. Each round-five competitor

could be entered into a prize draw, with the winning ticket taking home an Air Arms HFT500 airgun. ❱❱ For more information on Air Arms and to view Air Arms products visit www.airarms.co.uk

Have you downloaded the BASC app? Members of the British Association for Shooting and Conservation (BASC) can keep up to date with their favourite organisation thanks to the dedicated app. It features news from BASC, information on events and training courses and members’ offers, along with film, a guide to seasons and codes of practice. BASC members will also be able to view the latest mobile version of the BASC magazine, Shooting and Conservation, and access contact

numbers for regional offices, head office and insurance claims. John Thornley, BASC council member, said: “This app acts as a one-stop shop for people who want to find out information about BASC and shooting. It acts as a shooter’s companion. People tend to take their phones and tablets wherever they go and now they can take their BASC app too.” The free BASC app is available to download from the Apple App Store, Google Play and the Chrome Web Store.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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LETTERS

The changing face of retailing Sir, Sean O’Driscoll I read with interest Sean O’Driscoll’s opinion piecee (Parting Shot) in June’s Tackle & Guns – how truee it was. Retailing is changing and increasingly moving online. It’s hard work for retailers to compete with online-only businesses. However, here at John Rothery Wholesale we do try to do all we can to enable an even playing field. We receive a vast number of new-account applications every week and aim that dealt nd d ai im to t eensure nsur u e th hat at each h iiss d ealt lt with ih fairly, examining the type of trade, proximity to similar businesses and what they’re bringing to the industry and sport of shooting that may be different, might be needed in that area or could add extra value. Online-only businesses without business premises will not be considered because they do not carry similar overheads to traditional retailers. If they don’t have these overheads then it’s no wonder that they can sell cheaper online. I decline far more applications than I approve and I do this in full support of existing traders. All we ask in return is similar support. Often I hear of retailers that are able to source products cheaper elsewhere. Often this source is via a grey-importing wholesaler or a retailer dabbling in a bit of re-selling. They might be bringing pellets in from Germany or shotguns in from Ireland, knocking them out cheap to the very same customers that we try to support and protect wherever possible. These pseudo-wholesalers have made no commitment to the brand that they’re selling on – and have none of the associated overheads. They don’t place any adverts for these products or sponsor events.They don’t promote the product at shows or support the journalists with sample product for review and competition prizes. Instead they ride on the coat-tails of the official distribution channels, taking advantage of the effort made to build the brand and then trashing the brand value by selling it cheap.They can do this because they don’t carry the same overhead burden – just like those online-only retailers operating from a spare bedroom. As you say, the problem is lack of allegiance. Hopefully those retailers that do buy through the unofficial channels might consider why those suppliers are cheaper, think about the value brought from the additional overhead carried by official distributors and reconsider who they spend their money with in future.

You can’t please everyone all the time

I

received a phone call the other day from a retailer who had decided to pack it in after 27 years in the trade. One of the major reasons for his decision to leave the business was because of all the suppliers that are now happy to supply non-bricks-and-mortar retailers. I sympathised with him and recounted an encounter that I had at the Tackle & Guns Trade Show around seven years ago. We try and ensure that only trade people visit the show (sadly that doesn’t always happen because some retailers ‘invite’ their customers!) and if someone doesn’t have a ticket either I or one of my team question them about how ‘trade’ they really are. Back in the day, if they were ‘internet-only’ then they were refused entry. Anyway, this chap turned up without a ticket or a business card and I was called to the desk and asked him a few questions. He was a little bit evasive and struggled to give me answers that I would have thought a trade person should know. I refused him entrance and, after a bit of verbal sparring, he said that the managing director of this pa ticular exhibitor had personally i

Ian Kenyon Head of Sales John Rothery Wholesale Company Waterlooville Hampshire

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named was one of the major players so I was happy to go and ask the said MD about the visitor. “Oh yes, he is one of our best customers,” came the reply. That threw me and I guess it was at that stage that I realised the game had changed. Some of these internet-only retailers were becoming big spenders with the suppliers. Now there are some supply companies that still stick to this trading policy religiously but you get the feeling that those numbers are becoming fewer and fewer. The main problem is a lack of allegiance really. I know some suppliers try hard to abide by this policy and look to ‘protect’ the specialist retailer, only for that very s

source because the product might be a few pence cheaper! What happened to good oldfashioned loyalty? Was it from a bygone age or was it just a figment of our imagination? I think the truth lies somewhere in between. As I said last month, we all have to do what we have to do for the good of our business and if that means that we can’t please everyone all of the time, then so be it. No matter what you decide to do, it will always upset someone else. There are many factors why one might decide to close and I am sure this particular retailer didn’t shut his doors purely because of a supplier selling to an e-retailer. Whatever the case, you have to find a way to compete – I know it isn’t easy but you have to find a way of ensuring that your shop or offering is different. Make it so different that you can win trade. You need to find your USP and use it. In finishing the conversation with the retailer, he told me that he had never actually visited the T&G Show in all its years because i ith his salmon fi

A sense of foreboding Sir, I have been involved in various parts of the tackle and guns industries for 50 years this year so have seen a few changes, to say the least. The current debate regarding the Lead Ammunition Group (LAG) sends a shiver of foreboding through my marrow. I have a very high regard for the reputations and integrity of those who recently resigned from the LAG. However, I have heard nothing said yet regarding anyone left involved who may have an unbiased and fair view on the group’s objectives. I have always felt that it is best to stay in touch with what is going on and from that position influence outcomes. I trust those leaving the group have a long-term view as to how the interests of gun sports enthusiasts can be protected. I am reminded of the early 1980s when, after several years of trying to have published information regarding the use on lead split shot, I discovered there was a legal instrument in place that prevented certain aspects of the debate being aired. Phil Trotman Sunnybank Bristol

Protecting your business Sir, I read with interest your comment on the letter in July’s issue of Tackle & Guns. The issue of retailers feeling that they are being deliberately restricted by suppliers from stocking particular brands or products is one that, in my experience, is common across the retail sector. Your correspondent questions the legality of such practices with reference to “various EU laws and the Treaty of Rome”.The question is well made. However, the answer may not be to your correspondent’s liking. The starting point is to determine whether a particular restriction is imposed because the supplier has agreed with a particular retailer to restrict supply of a brand or product or in a specific geographic area or to a certain retail channel. If there is no such agreement then it is open to the supplier to make its own choices.The only exception is where the supplier occupies a position of dominance (usually thought to be a market share of 40 per cent or more) and the action taken by such a supplier is abusive of that dominance. In contrast, where a supplier wishes to make agreements with retailers that restricts supply then, in order to be able to do so, the supplier should seek to establish a selective distribution system. The objective of such a system is to ensure that the quality of the brand is maintained.The various restrictions need to be focused on this objective. If a particular retailer is unable to meet the criteria that form part of the selective distribution agreement (implementing the system), then the supplier can justifiably refuse to supply. In contrast, where a retailer meets the criteria, the supplier must supply. Going forwards, I anticipate that more and more brands will look to put in place selective distribution agreements with retailers which, overall, will, I anticipate, be good for the industry as it improves quality and ultimately benefits the consumer. Stephen L Sidkin Partner Fox Williams LLP, Solicitors London EC2M 2EE

www.tandgmagazine.com

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09/07/2015 14:01

Bygone days Each month Tackle & Guns reflects on what was happening in the trade 35 years ago. We look back at August 1980… ❱❱ Shooting bodies were furious after the Conservative Government significantly increased firearm-certificate fees to £25 without a full House of Commons debate. Liberal MP Alan Beith had pointed out that the fee was an increase of 1,000 per cent from the 1968 cost of just 25p. ❱❱ Slow-moving stock and a difficult market forced Daiwa Sports to lay off 30 staff at its Wishaw, Scotland, headquarters. Chief executive Archie McCunn said that the decision was a sensible one to head off potential problems in the future. ❱❱ Angling supplier Unisport unveiled its specially fitted out sales van to offer dealers tackle to their doors after managing director Len Goad (pictured below) had his car written off in a road accident.

❱❱ Eley announced that it was closing down its clay-pigeon manufacturing operation after revealing that smokeless-fuel maker Coalite would take over production. ❱❱ TFloat maker Carbonyte’s directors Jim Carroll (below left) and Geoffrey Bucknell are pictured in the firm’s new Rochester home, representing the first phase of Sundridge Tackle’s expansion.

❱❱ A successful court appeal by Hampshire gun collector David Hucklebridge made it legal for anyone with a shotgun certificate to possess a smooth-bore rifle without a firearm certificate. ❱❱ From left to right below: Ken Walker, John Holden and Jim Bruce in the expanded unit in Ramsey, Cambridgeshire, designed to double Bruce & Walker’s rodbuilding capacity.

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13/07/2015 11:06

Business matters A monthly roundup of what’s going on in the world of small businesses. Late-payment act More businesses are taking matters into their own hands when it comes to tackling late payment rather than waiting for Government intervention. Commercial-debt-recovery law firm Lovetts says that confidence to take a stand against poorly paying customers seems to be growing. The Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interest) Act 1998 has, for a number of years, been a significant remedy for companies where customers pay late. New regulations in 2013 allow firms to recover reasonable debt-recovery costs where the fixed-sum compensation under the act does not sufficiently cover debt-recovery costs.

Small firms go electronic Almost two-thirds of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) say that they’ve moved away from cheques in the past five years in favour of electronic-payment methods. The quarterly Close Brothers Business Barometer survey gauges the opinion of SME owners and managers from a variety of sectors across the UK and Ireland. Half of those surveyed use BACS or electronic transfer, 16 per cent prefer credit or debit cards and 14 per cent use direct debits. Just 13 per cent still use cheques and four per cent deal in cash. In addition, 62 per cent of respondents said that they will use online banking even more over the next five years.

Europe moving… just There’s a small-scale improvement within European economies but it could be hampered by a lack of investment. Julien Marcilly, credit-insurer Coface’s chief economist, said that, despite some positive signals, the conditions for strong long-term growth were missing. Low inflation and the euro exchange rate had boosted household spending and exports respectively, but levels of private investment had not revived significantly, except in Spain. Predicting a long period of low growth, Julien said: “The good news is that the car is now moving. The bad news is that this is only because it’s being pushed from the back by oil prices and the low value of the euro. The question is, can we restart the engine before these two begin to tire?”

Beat the overheads Despite SMEs always looking for new ways to manage their bottom lines in tough economic conditions, energy costs continue to be one of the biggest overheads to hit small businesses. Many energy suppliers require a 30-day notice period to cancel a contract, and, by not acting quickly enough, many SMEs get caught in expensive, lengthy contract rollover. Last year, 60 to 70 per cent of small businesses failed to act and missed out on savings of more than 40 per cent on their electricity and gas bills. ActSmart works with USC, an independent, impartial utility broker dedicated to helping businesses with cheaper electricity and gas for businesses. Call USC on 0844 855 1420 or e-mail [email protected]

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13/07/2015 11:08

RETAILER SURVEY Sponsored by

RETAILER SURVEY Tackle Shops 17% Down

Is footfall up or down on last month?

20% Down

Tackle dealers continue to enjoy the fruits of a warm summer and even some torrential downpours and thunderstorms have failed to dampen their spirits. Footfall is still on the rise (from 81 per cent to 83 per cent of respondents saying it was up), while the same number as last month (80 per cent) reported improved overall sales, too. As before, three-quarters of those who replied

Countryclothing sales in tackle shops? 24

39% Down

76% Up

Is your profit up or down on this time last year?

37% Down

80% Up

Are your overall sales up or down on last month?

.

24% Down

83% Up

61% Up

If you sell tackle via your website, are your internet sales up or down on last month?

8% Down

63% Up

92% Up

If you sell tackle by mail order, are your mail-order sales up or down on last month?

Are you expecting next month’s tackle sales to be up or down?

revealed that profits were up compared with this time last year. Mail-order sales continue to go in the right direction (63 per cent positive compared with 55 per cent last month), although internet tackle sellers’ success dipped slightly from 69 per cent happy to 61 per cent. As the summer holidays approach – and still buoyed by forecasts of continued heat waves – a

terrific 92 per cent of those who replied felt next month would be even better (94 per cent last month). But country-clothing retailers have not enjoyed the warmth – 86 per cent of mail-order dealers moaned that sales had dropped (33 per cent last time) while 90 per cent of internet traders said the same (two per cent last month). And 88 per cent were bracing themselves for poor results as summer continues.

If you sell country clothing by mail order, are your country-clothing sales up or down on last month?

If you sell country clothing via your website, are your country-clothing internet sales up or down on last month?

Are you expecting next month's country-clothing sales to be up or down?

14% up 86% down

10% up 90% down

12% up 88% down

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14/07/2015 14:14

RETAILER SURVEY Sponsored by

WIN AN ALAN PAINE SHIRT!

Alan Paine Country Collection is proud to sponsor the Tackle & Guns Retailer Survey

As a thank you for taking part, we’ve drawn the name of one retailer from last month’s respondents to win a superb Alan Paine gent’s pure-cotton Ilkley shirt. Congratulations to Challis Tackle in Andover, the shirt is on its way…

Stylish countrywear for men and women, from hard-wearing tweeds to wax cotton and waterproofs. Contact our sales team on 01623 522573 for more details.

Gun Shops 38% Down

Is footfall up or down on last month?

36% Down

35% Down

62% Up

Is your profit up or down on this time last year?

48% Down

64% Up

32% Down

65% Up

68% Up

If you sell shooting equipment via your website, are your internet sales up or down on last month?

27% Down

52% Up

73% Up

Are your overall sales up or down on last month?

If you sell shooting equipment by mail order, are your mail-order sales up or down on last month?

Are you expecting next month's shooting-equipment sales to be up or down?

For gun shops, too, this is a time of stability and reaping the rewards of your work, with virtally the same amount of respondents reporting rising footfall, overall sales and even profit year-on-year – very pleasing with the game season not too far off now. In stark contrast to the last couple of months, where those relying on mail order and internet sales had been finding it tough, things have turned around

dramatically. Mail-order shooting suppliers reported in 52 per cent of cases that business was up (just 26 per cent last time out) while 68 per cent of internet traders said the same (29 per cent last month). Although hopes were dented slightly for the coming month (July as T&G goes to print), there were still almost three-quarters of those replying positively. Things were, however, much harder if you were

trying to sell country clothing to the shooting sector in this heat. A worrying 90 per cent of mail-order sellers and 98 per cent of internet specialists revealed they had suffered last month. And the tough times look set to continue with just over two-thirds admitting to being concernred about their July prospects – although August and the grouse season are on the horizon.

Countryclothing sales in gun shops?

If you sell country clothing by mail order, are your country-clothing sales up or down on last month?

If you sell country clothing via your website, are your country-clothing internet sales up or down on last month?

Are you expecting next month's country-clothing sales to be up or down?

10% up 90% down

2% up 98% down

24% up 76% down

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:14

FLYING THE FLAG

FlyingThe

FLAG Radical Angling Developments

Radical… an adjective described as; “…characterised by departure from tradition, innovative, or progressive.”

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t Radical Angling Developments (RAD), you get all that and much more in a brand rapidly making waves in the trade with a succession of top-notch tackle items that really are causing a storm. Perfectly pitched as ‘farreaching, thorough and fundamental’ ,Radical directors Trevor Brown and Pete Foster were dissatisfied with products available at the time and, like many entrepreneurs, knew they could do better. Fortunately, owning an engineering company also helps, and Pete’s Sheffield-based firm was ideally placed to start making prototype carbon items that were stylish, practical and competitively priced, and would also appeal immediately to the imageconscious carper, pike fisherman or specimen angler.

British and proud After initial investigation revealed that similar designs were sourced mainly in the Far East, Trevor and Pete decided that they would seek to produce a high-end British-made product that would be affordable, while offering retailers an excellent profit margin. Potential designs were rapidly turned into tangible products and the hard work then began with sales initially starting on popular auction platform eBay, which saw demand for Radical Angling Developments’ first creation, an innovative stainless-steel/carbon

pike drop-off indicator, quickly rocket... Subsequent online interest saw Radical Angling Developments officially launch at the PAC show in 2014, where staff found that they couldn’t pack the new indicators fast enough to keep up with unprecedented demand; a fine start indeed! Further designs saw banksticks, carbon pods and buzz bars perfected and the complete Radical catalogue was presented at the Northern Angling Show that, as expected, saw sales explode and encourage rapid company expansion. Sensible management saw Cheryl Chapman join RAD as financial director to ensure the company continued to trade rationally while delivering an increase in manufacturing. RAD offers a complete range of carbon-fibre bankware.

High standards Radical Angling Developments now offers a complete range of carbon-fibre bankware and accessories, all of which are designed in-house utilising CAD and Solid Works systems to ensure accuracy and consistency of product. High-quality 15mm-diameter thick-walled 3K woven twill carbon materials are then used to fabricate finished items using the very latest CNC machining centre technology, and are then individually checked to exacting standards before release. New ideas, concepts and designs are at the forefront of RAD. A small team of just four consultants, including top carp angler Lee Walton, offers product development support, field testing and feedback on potential

products and, as a result, continued success will see the company expand further into other disciplines as demand increases. Exciting new products are already destined to hit the shelves over the next few months and supplementary exposure at forthcoming shows will only serve to increase consumer awareness of RAD as a pioneer and purveyor of fine-quality stability and support solutions for anglers. Retailers are starting to take note of the new kid on the block – big names in the trade such as Fosters, Erics Angling and Planet Carp, among others, already stock the full carbon catalogue, and fellow UK brand Cotswold Aquarius, a byword for quality, supplies bespoke kit bags in which to safely transport all items. Working alongside Cotswold Aquarius forges an alliance built on mutual excellence, which has an exceptionally positive association for both retailer and customer and, coupled with sensible supply terms, results in an account that is simple to foster yet offers something radically different. Radical Angling Developments is actively looking for new accounts.

Radical Angling Developments T: 01143 602974 W: www.radicalangling.co.uk

26 www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 11:17

To view our new Autumn/Winter 2015 Collection please contact the team

[email protected] 0845 2700 217

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13/07/2015 10:37

ON THE MARKET

Putting your best foot forward in F the country

Everyone knows the saying “for the want of a shoe, the horse was lost,” and nothing rings truer than a badly fitting, uncomfortable piece of footwear ruining a day in the field.

or shooters, hunters and fishing folk, having the right piece of kit on your feet is vital, and despite the one or two characters wedded to their old farmer wellies or battered trainers, most of us want performance footwear that really does perform in our chosen sport. Today the range is huge and encompasses high-end products specifically designed for a particular purpose, through to more general countryside footwear. The market is now characterised by consumers committing to a preferred footwear brand and purchasing a range of products from it, each for a different job. Ewen Steel, UK sales agent for Harkila and Seeland, explained: “We’re seeing people who buy Harkila hunting boots now buying our Forrester wellies because they like the Harkila brand. “This means that Seeland, which currently only offers rubber boots, is now considering manufacturing a leather range in order to capitalise on that trend and offer Seeland fans greater choice.”

Wearing it well Philip Moss of footwear specialist Chatham agrees that people are increasingly looking for boots for a specific purpose; the new Chatham Country Range, which offers quality, durability and comfort, premium leathers, Goodyear welting and stylish designs, incorporates two men’s leather and two women’s leather shooting boots, with breathable bamboo linings, as well as excellent rubber wellies. He revealed: “The business has

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gone from strength to strength. On the shooting side our excellent-quality leather shooting boots are sub-£200, making them very affordable, so they’ve been extremely popular. We also see that many people who sail also shoot and they know and like our sailing products, so are very happy to try out our other footwear ranges.” Check out the York high-ankle brogue boots on commando rubber soles, which will happily take you from the peg to luncheon and back again.

Technical choice The market is also characterised by clever technologies such as selfcleaning sole patterns that prevent build-up of mud underfoot and new slimline waterproofing membranes. Gore-Tex linings are still popular for breathability but don’t dismiss own-brand membranes, many of which are equally effective and cost less. Fastenings have also seen makeovers, with traditional laces being usurped by easy-to-use ratchet systems. “Ratchet lacings such as the Harkila BOA system are very popular among older people, and perhaps the gent who is a bit portly, too, for whom the hardest bit of the day is lacing his boots,” says Ewen. “The advantage of the ratchet system is ease of use and the fact that it tensions the boot equally from top to toe.”

Traditional wellies While boots for specific purposes are growing in popularity, good old wellies are still hugely popular. Now more comfy than ever, styled to fit the leg rather than flap

around, and less clammy thanks to new linings, wellies from the likes of Hunter, Le Chameau and Aigle can look both stylish and be highly practical. Hunter’s sturdy Balmorals are a good bet and designed to perform across rough and challenging terrain, while Le Chameau’s Vierzonord boots are comfy

Grubs is the renowned Muck Boot Company, which offers a wide range of boots for outdoor activities, including the impressive Woody Sport all-terrain hunting boots with reinforced toes, Speed Tracker outsoles, a Mossy Oak Break-Up camou pattern and 5mm neoprene bootie liners for £125.

The market is characterised by clever technologies such as self-cleaning sole patterns to prevent mud build-up. favourites, as are the boots in Aigle’s renowned Parcours range. Hunter is also in the throes of launching its specially constructed Field collection, which should be available any time now. Worklite saw a name change earlier this year and is now known as Grubs Boots Ltd, reflecting its primary role as Grubs’ UK distributor. The change came about after a successful 2014 for the brand and, with more than 23 designs, the Grubs super-comfy neoprene boot range includes boots for shooting and fishing. With stretchy legs that can accommodate the chunkiest of calves, the boots also offer different levels of insulation, a range of soles and removable footbeds. Check out the Stalking, Riverline, Fenline, Treeline and Frostline boots, which are great for all country sports. On a similar line to

Wychwood and TF Gear, while Skee-Tex has its own Wellingtons available.

Comfort and performance For those wanting specialist footwear, Harkila is at the top of the tree, with its Pro Gamekeeper GTX 9in boots winning the Best New Footwear Product at the Time Inc 2015 Shooting Industry Awards. With orthotic fit, Vibram soles, Harkila Ortholite footbeds and Memory Fit leather, the stylish, waterproof and breathable boots combine optimal stability and

Alternatively, there is the Muck Chore Cool, which is rugged and comes with reflective pull-on tabs plus an XpressCool lining. This has been designed to rapidly pull moisture away from your skin and absorb and spread it out across the boot lining to drier areas of the boot, to enhance the evaporative drying rate. Vass has also used its skills in wader technology to produce the Vass-Tex Evo boots, with wider calves, double reinforcement at key spots plus ultra-chunky soles with ladder grip. There are several other fishing-related firms also offering neoprene boots, including

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wearability and are available in half sizes up to size 13. Harkila is also the only footwear company to use the new Gore-Tex Surround System developed to enable the wearer to stand on a honeycomb structure, meaning that the Gore-Tex goes under the feet rather than just over them. Developed for cross-country runners and cyclists, the new technology can be found in Harkila’s recently launched Trapper Master GTX 9in and 6in light and flexible hunting boots with hard-wearing Cordura uppers. Seeland is seeing good uptake of its breathable boots, and this autumn will launch the Woodcock boots to go with the company’s popular and award-winning Woodcock breathing shooting suit. Based on the Seeland AT sole system, the 18in tall Woodcock boots will offer 3mm and 5mm options and a Seeland-developed self-cleaning sole unit. Lowa is also popular in the field-sports market, with its Mountain boots hitting the spot thanks to their Vibram Tsavo soles, Lowa climate-control system and Gore-Tex. Hunters are also likely to appreciate the Lowa GTX Evo Extreme field boots, which provide great ankle support for those

Bob Rothery of John Rothery Wholesale shows off Aigle‘s boots.

John Field gaiters – a great add-on.

steep slopes and lumpy ground. Distributed here by Tradewinds Outdoors, Redback’s popularity in the UK is a recent phenomenon but they are a staple for most Australian workers and emergency services staff. They are amazingly comfortable because they’re designed to be pressure point free on the upper foot and the sole and because the micro-bubble sole absorbs shock so well. If you need to be on your feet all day, these are these boots to wear. They also provide decent ankle support in a comfortable and unobtrusive way. They’re hardwearing, resistant to oils and fuel, easy to clean, and provide excellent grip. For those looking for more modestly priced boots, Jack Pyke’s excellent Fieldman boots offer full-grain leather, Vibram Trek rubber soles, waterproof and breathable membranes, Thinsulate insulation, odour management and a speed-lace system for £110.

On the bank We’ve already mentioned a number of brands best known for their fishing tackle and clothing, but when you’re on the bank you need something to keep your feet comfortable, dry and warm, with enough grip to cope with mud and sufficient support in case you need to walk some distance. Skee-Tex has been producing boots for many years and has a background in the ski and snow market, so its offerings are designed to keep feet warm and

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Many boots feature soles by industry expert Vibram.

dry, in both typical Wellingtonstyle and field boots. Svendsen Sports’ Prologic brand has plenty of choice for dealers and field-sports enthusiasts alike, from its Realtree Max 5 Grip-Tek and Polar Zone offerings to its sturdy Survivor and Trax boots. Sundridge has built a reputation on its HotFoot products, encompassing thermal, airlock, floating and combat options. With more than 25 years of experience it’s recognised as a major supplier of specialist protective clothing in Europe, so it knows a thing or two about keeping anglers warm and dry. For specimen and game fishing enthusiasts, Wychwood’s position in the market is solid, thanks to its Solace boots and its latest Water’s Edge product range. The Chub brand – part of Pure Fishing now – can also supply you with field boots, and, in common with many other suppliers, they’re hard wearing with waterproof, moulded soles, leather uppers and thermal or waterproof linings. Another name in the tackle trade that’s earned a strong following for footwear is TF Gear, with a range that includes neoprene boots plus both standard-height and high boots under various names, notably Rockhopper, Hardcore, X-Trail, Super Tuff, Hardwear Winter and X-Tuff. And if you find yourself on a dry bank with little walking to do, then the Korda all-weather trainers could be just the ticket.

Useful add-ons Boots are one thing but to ensure supreme waterproofing and ease of movement through scratchy brambles, try a pair of gaiters. John Field’s tough, breathable, waterproof, durable gaiters are constructed using laminated Cordura fabric for ultimate abrasion and tear resistance Each also incorporates elastic at the bottom for fit and comfort, with a strong, plastic-coated metal closure system. And then there are the socks… Many firms offer them, from boot makers like Hunter and clothing names such as Deerhunter, Seeland and Harkila to specialists like House of Cheviot. DexShell has a selection of waterproof socks which not only keep feet warm and dry no matter what your outer footwear but can even be used by bivvied-up anglers should you get a take in the middle of the night and have no time to find your shoes! Clearly, UK field-sport footwear purchasers are well catered for across the price range. While the top-range brands certainly offer superbquality products, the middle and lower-cost ranges are also now incorporating many useful features, making them extremely good value for money. But, remember, whichever brand and model you choose to sell, ensure that they fit well and are comfortable for the customers or they’ll spend more time on your boot rack than on their feet.

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HÄRKILA PRO GAMEKEEPER GTX® 9” RRP: £319.99

By combining our passion for nature and our knowledge of hunting with innovative hi-tech solutions, we provide the consumer with what we believe is the sturdiest, most comfortable, weatherproof and versatile hunting equipment available.

Trust your instinct - trust Härkila.

www.harkila.com

For further information or to arrange a viewing of our brand new clothing contact: UK South and Southern Ireland. Simon Esnouf: 07887 997788 [email protected] • UK North and Northern Ireland. Ewen Steel: 07912 934389 [email protected]

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22/06/2015 15:56

FLYING THE FLAG

Flying The

Andy Duncan’s work adds value and aesthetics to a gun.

FLAG Andy Duncan

A fundamental part of the finished gun, a premium-quality walnut stock, can add pleasing aesthetics, increased accuracy and additional value to a shooter’s pride and joy. Stockmaker Andy Duncan is the man to trust…

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n expert stockmaker can source the correct woods, visualise the finished product, and realise the bedrock of any shotgun with a combination of craft, skill and experience; Andy Duncan is one such stockmaker and he has the testimonials to prove it. From his purpose-built workshop in Yattendon, Berkshire, Andy has been involved in the gun trade as a craftsman for more than 30 years and recognises the requirement for finding the best-quality woods to furnish single guns or matching pairs. He predominantly uses French or Turkish walnut as the base for most of his work. Andy told T&G: “French and Turkish woods have a tight grain, ideally suited to the often intricate work utilised in shaping and forming the perfect stock. “Environmental conditions in both countries result in a weight and consistency rarely found in English walnuts and ensure that the woods can be worked without splitting, which is imperative when crafting an expensive piece! Walnut is graded by quality,

and we have AAA, AA, A and Exhibition grade for that extraspecial finish.”

Dedicating time The art of the stockmaker is to fashion a perfect base for the gunmetal, and such craft usually involves long hours spent carving, cutting, shaping and fitting the woods to the metal to provide a perfect marriage to help create the ideal gun for the customer. In addition to his work with brand-new James Purdey & Sons guns, Andy also accommodates vintage and much-cherished guns that may need repair or replacement stocks. If one of your pair is damaged or broken, a new stock can be made to match the remaining gun. Alterations can also be made to existing stock work to give a perfect fit for the shooter if the gun changes hands or requires adjustment. Working in three dimensions, Andy must allow the moving parts of the gun to operate freely and safely, while remaining securely affixed to the stock. During the crafting of the woodwork, the individual measurements of the customer are built in to guarantee a perfect fit.

A surprising level of intricate work is required to house the internal mechanisms and quarter them tightly without comprising either safety or the aesthetic of the finished gun, and many hours can be spent making final adjustments before it is complete and ready for the final stages of manufacture. Once the shaping and fitting is perfected, the stock will have many coats of linseed oil applied to ‘feed’ the raw timber and enhance the grain before a choice of finish is selected; French polish gives a bright, shiny finish or an oil can be employed to give a softer satin sheen for a much

subtler effect. For all stock work, Andy Duncan is available to give advice or commission work by appointment at the workshop, or via e-mail and telephone, so if you have a special gun, one that deserves a special finish, contact him for more details.

Andy Duncan T: 01635 200233/07785 960008 E: [email protected] W: www.thestockmaker.co.uk

32 www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:16

EVOLUTION BRINGS ABOUT CHANGE! ARE YOU READY? NEW TSP £499.99 (SCOPE INCLUDED)

DEMON Walther Rotex (.177 / .22) 2) Fatboy Backdraft moderator or Scope 3-9x40 3-9x Force One Gun Bag (51”))

PROUDLY MADE IN GERMANY

The new Rotex RM8 bolt-action air rifle PCP air rifle giving you 180 full-power shots 8-shot magazine and takes a 232-bar fill Fitted pressure gauge and 200cc bottle

PROUDLY MADE IN GERMANY

TSP £349.99

BEST IN TEST 2014

(SCOPE NOT INCLUDED)

PROUDLY MADE IN GERMANY

LGU

TSP £419.99 (SCOPE NOT INCLUDED)

MASTER

Underlever construction with rotary piston Fixed barrel guarantees high and constant precision High level of safety by means of automatic piston safety High-grade beech stock with high cheekpiece

TERRUS AVAILABLE IN SYNTHETIC OR WOODEN STOCK

The Terrus has been specially designed for the world’s most rugged conditions, from the Arctic tundra to the wilds of the rainforests. Made to be lightweight with superlative handling, the synthetic stock is made of special polymers to give it Recoil ResistTM properties. In addition, the unique ergonomic forend is designed so that your hand cossets the rifle and the user feels almost at one with the gun – it’s a truly unique feature!

PROUDLY MADE IN GERMANY

Armex Ltd, Field Sports House, 11 Andover Street, Birmingham B5 5RG, UK t: 0121 643 4900 I f: 0121 633 4990 I e: [email protected]

www.armex.co.uk Visit our Official Facebook fan page just search Armex Ltd

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PROUDLY MADE IN GERMANY

15/07/2015 11:41

FEATURE

Seeland set for the season As Danish clothing brands Seeland and Härkila approach a decade kitting out the British shooter, the relationship is going from strength to strength and the 2015 autumn/winter collection does not disappoint.

W

aterproof and breathable technologies abound and this year Seeland has introduced loden and moleskin into its product range. New names to look out for include Devon, Caden, Tarnock and Blackmoor, which build on the success of popular Seeland families like the Keeper and Lingfield. The Devon lightweight, loden four-piece suit is an eye-catching, classic option for the peg shooter. With a Seetex drop liner it is fit for purpose in all conditions. The suit comprises jacket, breeks, waistcoat and flat cap. The complete suit is being offered as a prize on the Seeland stand at the Game Fair. The

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jacket is priced at £199.99, waistcoat and breeks at £99.99 and cap for £29.99. Its Bolton fleece and waistcoat in blue carbon should also catch the eye, priced at £59.99 and £49.99 respectively. Lady shots, pickers-up and beaters are always well provided for in the Seeland collection and this year is no exception. The Glyn Lady jacket and trousers (£159.99 and £89.99) will definitely catch the eye and be a talking point in the field. The Glyn Lady features a subtle herringbone weave with a new lightweight, non-bulky Thinsulate padding, a proven Seetex membrane and a topquality faux fur hood trim. It’s also being offered as a prize on the Game Fair stand.

Hand it to Härkila Passion, innovation and heritage are consistent watchwords at Härkila and this is clearly reflected in the products being launched this autumn/winter. The award-winning Pro Hunter range continues to grow with the addition of the Härkila Pro Extend Trouser (£199.99) this autumn. This lightweight, breathable, flexible, tough trouser will be a top performer in the field, whatever the conditions it is exposed to. The popular Torridon, Metso and Hurricane ranges have also been extended. The introduction of the Torridon Tweed Sports Jacket is a fifth piece in this technologically advanced 100 per cent British wool range. The Härkila knitwear

collection has also grown and of particular note is the Nite pullover. Available in four colours, this merino pullover is warm and flexible, with a high neck and bias half zip for added comfort and ease of wearing. Destined to be a popular option for sport and leisure wear, it retails for £99.99.

Seeland/Härkila T: 07887 997788/07912 934389 W: www.seelanduk.co.uk

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14/07/2015 14:12

FEATURE

Top performance for the beach from Tronixpro Hailed as having the same casting feel as a £400 to £600 rod, Tronixpro is excited about the launch of its Cobra GT beach rod, designed and endorsed by former World Junior Champion Callum Graham.

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Available as a 4.2m/14ft rod that is a bit quicker through the cast (RRP £299.99) or a 4.5m/15ft rod perfect for straight overhead casting (RRP £319.99), Tronixpro brings a quality, highperformance beach rod to the market at an affordable price.

allum Graham is a whirlwind fishing success story – angling since the age of four, he has stacked up a number of World Championship team medals, including a gold in 2012, three Home International team golds, 10 international caps and many more medals, including individual World Champion in 2012.

Net sales opportunity

Callum Graham helped design the Cobra GT rod.

So when Tronixpro wanted to seriously look into developing its own beach rod, teaming up with the company’s first and longest standing pro staff member was the obvious choice. Callum’s requirements from the rod at the outset were “a fast action, powerful rod with a reasonably soft tip that can pick up bites, stand the abuse of heavy casting but won’t collapse at the cast.” Eighteen months later and the Tronixpro Cobra GT is now available to buy for resale from TronixFishing. The rod changed and

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developed during the initial six months of testing. However, Callum has been using the final Cobra GT for a year, choosing to use it at almost every single match. He explained: “The Tronixpro Cobra GT is an incredibly powerful rod and can handle anything that UK beaches throw at it. “You can feel the rod punch and let out as you finish off the cast – it has the same casting feel as a £400 to £600 rod. It’s an awesome rod for the money.” Tronixpro’s George Cunningham added: “Tronixpro’s mission has always been to provide quality fishing gear at an affordable price, and with the Cobra GT rod, we think we’ve achieved something quite special for the price point.”

Tronixpro has also unveiled a new concept for pier and breakwater angling – a folding drop net. Bringing an end to the cumbersome long walk up the pier lugging the big old drop net, ropes falling out and trailing behind, is this latest offering. By tucking the rope inside the net and folding the frame in half, you make yourself a nice halfsize contained net that you can easily carry or strap to the rest of your tackle. Tronixpro’s folding drop net (RRP £24.99) features a lightweight aluminium frame to make the journey to and from the pier easier, rubber mesh to protect your fish and a high-quality rope and fittings throughout.

Tronix Fishing T: 01903 732567 W: www.tronixfishing.com/trade

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:15

Tough, Washable & Low Maintenance handle in

Stabilised Curly Birch

Model no. 13118

Blade: Stainless Sandvik 14C28N (58-59 HRC) RRP: £99.95 Standard versions with oiled handles from £79.95

Tel. 01628 330 330 - www.casstrom.co.uk - [email protected]

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13/07/2015 10:37

FEATURE

SECRET

SHOPPER T&G’s special agent identifies the best and worst of customer service…

The Broadway Gunroom

Star

First impressions? 9/10 The picturesque town of Broadway made an ideal setting for this classy-looking shop. Tucked away down one of the streets between Lloyds Bank and Blandford Books off the main road, once I’d found it, I was in for a treat. With plenty of parking nearby, this always starts a visit well.

SHOP

Address: Kennel Lane, Broadway,Worcestershire WR12 7DJ T: 01386 852519 Date visited: June 20th, 2015

Verdict You’re rarely let down visiting gun shops and it’s often because of the staff, who make every effort to ensure that you come back. This is an excellent example; it was a pleasure to visit such a community asset.

91/100

Step inside? 9/10 It was just what you’d expect from a classy Cotswolds town – clean, tidy with a pleasant whiff of being expensive. It was bigger than you’d think, with plenty of room to add products without being cluttered.

about all you need for a sporting day in the countryside. Excellent brands of shotguns and game guns along with classy air rifles were nicely presented in both horizontal and vertical racks. It was spotless and bright.

Help me? 9/10 The staff were very helpful in a very pleasant, understated way, with no hassling or rushing me to purchase, allowing browsing time but without ignoring me. All in all it was excellent.

Know your stuff? 9/10

about your retail experience.

Do I need this? 9/10 Perhaps the only incongruous note on the score sheet, the archery section with its compound bows, camou nets and funkier branding looked slightly out of place. So maybe a bit of work to integrate them more fully into the rest of the shop’s excellent branding and ambience would help a lot.

Family friendly? 9/10 In terms of a shop that you’d visit with a child under 10 years old, I imagine you’d be on tenterhooks, especially near the travelling decanters and glasses, but, apart from this not being children oriented, it was fine. This shop caters for the higher end of the market with predominantly mature customers.

The cleanliness was as high scoring as you would expect; this shop was all about the experience and making you feel important, and everybody likes that!

A shop like this will stand, possibly rise or fall based on sound knowledge of the product. In terms of guns, this was never a problem. Despite some seemingly awkward questions, the staff were great, polite, knowledgeable and understated.

Show it off? 9/10

Pushy or pleasing? 9/10

What’s happening and where? 9/10

Everything about this shop was classy, and that included the displays. Labelling was good, and there was enough space to move around the guns, books and bags; just

It was definitely on the pleasing side. This isn’t a shop to force you into a purchase that hasn’t been thought out; with this allowance you can always feel comfortable

Although fairly new, this shop is gaining a well-deserved reputation around the locale. An impressive local community store that will offer something for most pockets.

wall displays it had were well done, not overcluttered and clean, while the lighting was just right, without being overpowering. Clothing was well looked after and the gun racks were well stocked and secure, with good labels too.

Do I need this? 8/10

Help me? 10/10

Family friendly? 9/10

Stay clean? 10/10

Countryman Sports First impressions? 8/10

Address: Unit A8, Churcham Business Park, Gloucester GL2 8AX T: 01452 751100 Date visited: June 20th, 2015

Verdict Another pleasure to visit, mainly due to the helpful staff member who was great, polite, patient, enthusiastic and passionate about his trade and pastime. Deserves its customers.

89/100 42

Following a lovely road out of Gloucester, I found this as I turned left into a very nice industrial estate. The outside of the shop was kind of what you’d expect for an industrial unit, although the doors were well done. As a bonus, there was loads of parking outside, and I just knew that it was going to be clean and modern inside.

Step inside? 8/10 What I expected is what I got: clean, bright and nicely decorated to add a bit of the countryside to the rather functional nature of the unit. It felt good and I was welcomed in straightaway, made to feel at home with the option of browsing or getting straight on to the main event.

The guy who served me was very, very helpful, enthusiastic and keen without being too over the top. I was made very welcome and felt like my custom was really valuable to the chap.

You could certainly have got your pushchairs into it but this was a gun shop for grown-ups. Younger individuals would be very welcome, however, so, all in all, family friendly in terms of facilities, if not content and stock.

Know your stuff? 9/10 The chap was patient and very knowledgeable, and conveyed all of those qualities really well, despite me asking some pretty stupid questions.

Stay clean? 9/10

Pushy or pleasing? 9/10

Another spotless performance here; it was excellent, and really good to see the stock looked after with such attention.

We went through a few brands without any of them being forced upon me. I wasn’t asked to part with any more money than I needed to, and this was, again, admirable.

Show it off? 9/10

I wasn’t seen as a sucker (although I could have been) and I was guided through what I would need, what my best options would be and how much a decent budget would be.

What’s happening and where? 10/10 Another highlight is that it was a very community-focused shop that was aware of local amenities, shoots, clubs and tutors. Certainly this was exactly what you would want from your local gun shop.

It wasn’t the biggest shop, but what

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13/07/2015 11:22

FEATURE

WIN a Harvey gilet This month’s highest-scoring retailer wins a Harvey gilet from Baleno, supporting progessive retailing.

Sponsored by

* Secret Shopper is conducted by independent researchers and not by sponsors.

Alan’s of Worcester First impressions? 7/10 You couldn’t miss this one; the huge yellow sign helped and there were plenty of branding notices outside. There were two dedicated car spaces outside, which was helpful because it was on a main road and parking was only otherwise available in the adjacent road, but this was tricky due to it being so crowded. Address: 30 Malvern Road, Worcester WR2 4LG T: 01905 422107 Date visited: June 15th, 2015

Verdict All round this would be a pleasure to visit if you like a shop that’s packed full of character and product and a bit of an Aladdin’s cave. It’s a great local amenity that’s well used and deserves to be!

85/100 100/100

Step inside? 9/10 Wow, this place was packed! There was so much stuff I had to push my way through nets, coats and various other items of tackle in order to get round. There are two schools of thought here, but this is a busy shop, kind of old fashioned, and personally I love them like this, rather than super clinically clean and characterless.

Stay clean? 8/10 Despite the masses of gear it was all clean and clearly well looked after; even the remainder items were clean and well presented. It receives good marks for this; it would be easy to let the cleanliness slip.

Show it off? 7/10 There was so much gear in such a small space, or so I thought. There were actually three main rooms; you just had to make your way past the other gear. Despite this, it was all well presented, aside from one thing, which was kind of frustrating (although I understand the logic): only the butt sections of the rods were on show. Labelling was good, clear and concise with no messing about required searching for prices.

an informed choice – just how I like it. Despite the range of very good brands, I wasn’t forced one way or the other; it was all about the right decision.

Do I need this? 9/10 As mentioned already, the shop carried a very impressive range of gear, mainly for the carp, match and barbel markets. I wasn’t put under any pressure to buy any additional items that I didn’t require.

Help me? 10/10

Family friendly? 7/10

I had to wait a while but it was a busy shop. I didn’t mind this at all because it helped me get a feel for the place. Once I was seen, the member of staff was very helpful indeed.

Well, you certainly couldn’t get pushchairs in the place! This was a tackle shop for anglers and young anglers serious about their fishing, so no combos or similar ‘starter’ products were available. There was a wide range of prices, so something for everyone.

Know your stuff? 10/10 There was no problem here; the three chaps working on the counters, of which there were also three, skillfully fielded every question I asked and overheard.

Pushy or pleasing? 9/10 Definitely the latter is the answer here, with just enough information provided to make

What’s happening and where? 9/10 Once again, this was the kind of shop that I appreciate, including old-fashioned local knowledge about waters, what’s happening and what’s catching on those waters.

Bankside Tackle First impressions? 8/10

Help me? 10/10

The industrial park wasn’t the easiest to find, but, once I was in it, Bankside Tackle had a great sign that I coudn’t miss. It was the first unit I came to as I drove in. There was plenty of parking, too. It all added up to a great start.

The staff were very helpful indeed. There was no hassle given; I was simply allowed time to have a browse before being approached – just about as good as it gets.

Know your stuff? 9/10 Address: Unit 11, Highfield Business Park, Tewkesbury Road, Deerhurst, Gloucestershire GL19 4BP Date visited: June 4th, 2015

Verdict All in all this constituted a good experience, and as long as you’re aware that this place is focused on the specialist end of the market, this can be a great shop for you.

84/100

Step inside? 8/10 Bigger than the impression I got from the outside, it had plenty of lighting, too, and was clean, bright and set out for the more serious specimen angler.

The staff definitely knew their stuff. There were plenty of brands to look at, too, mostly of higher-end specialist tackle; I wasn’t disappointed with this or of the service.

Stay clean? 9/10

Pushy or pleasing? 9/10

There was no problem here; it was as clean as a whistle, with plenty of space.

This shop was very good on the service and knowledge aspects without staff hassling or pushing any brand down your throat. I was given the right information without any patronising patter from the assistant.

Show it off? 9/10 Labelling was very good: easy, clear and simple to figure out what you’re paying. Rod racks were horizontal style with all rods made up so that you could have a waggle, while there was enough space to do this without ruining any of the displays.

upselling or changing. It all made me feel as if I knew what I was doing, which is always good.

Family friendly? 6/10 This shop was structured towards the higher end of the market, with its customers being predominantly mature anglers who know what they want. In this way it wasn’t really what I would consider a family shop; although access was good, there was nothing on offer for juniors or beginners.

What’s happening and where? 7/10 This is a shop that has a reputation built on knowledge of the local carp and specialist waters, so can put you on the best local venues. Local knowledge, including what’s happening and what’s catching, will always score good points.

Do I need this? 9/10 The store scores very good points here, too. I was well informed (phew!) regarding the purchases that I made, without any member of staff resorting to

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 11:22

FEATURE

Vass-Tex 305: Bring it on! Many breathable waders are designed specifically for game fishing and sometimes struggle in harsher environments. However, the Vass-Tex 305 5L breathables will keep you dry whatever the conditions.

W

aders are popular not just with game anglers but with sea fishermen and hunters or wildfowlers too. While standing chest deep in a cold river may be challenging for both the angler and his waders, many can be found wanting when the going gets really tough – sat in a windy estuary or braving the elements on the coast.

Hostile handling The new Vass-Tex 305 5L Breathable Wader has been designed and developed for the most hostile sea fishing environments. Using the tried-andtested Vass Boot as its base, then built up using the most advanced material technology, Vass has

44

created the ultra-tough and reliable wader. Chris Hvass, who runs manufacturer Vass, said: “It’s very tough, breathable and, above all, in many cases up to three times more waterproof than other leading breathable waders.” To ensure all aspects of the Vass breathable waders are up to the job, the firm has used the latest Vass-Ultra 25mm TripleBonded Non-Stitch Technical Seam. Although developed for the more extreme sea fishermen, its durability and reliability also appeal to many other forms of fishing.

Vass Textile Group T: 01908 563804 E: [email protected] W: www.vassrainwear.co.uk

Features include • Wider fit (to ensure good air circulation and comfort as well as catering for larger wearers) • High-quality Vass Boot, wider calf and foot fitting for comfort • Tough, breathable Vass-Tex 305 material • Vass-Ultra (Ultra-wide 25mm triple-bonded seams) • Reinforced knees • Chest pocket with zip • Elasticated waist belt • Two D-rings on chest for attaching tools (cutters, hook remover) • Box-stitch reinforcement with elasticated brace-loop with a quickrelease buckle • Internal zipped pocket • Internal drawcord around the chest • Large heel kicker on boot • The non-studded VM305-70E Vass-Tex 305-5L chest wader is priced at £249.95, with the studded version (VM305-71E) selling for £262.92.

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14/07/2015 14:17

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p045_T&G_08_Tronix.indd 1

09/07/2015 13:59

FEATURE

Broken section?

Call the Pole Doctor

Getting your tackle shop known as a pole-repair centre makes sound business sense because you can dramatically increase footfall. And you don’t even need to do the repairs yourself.

F

or the last 22 years, Gavin Kinder has been repairing poles, firstly for friends and individuals and now, increasingly, on behalf of tackle retailers. The benefits for a shop of working with Gavin and his Carbon Corrections and repairs business are clear: your shop gets well-known for its top-quality pole-repair service, bringing in more customers and breeding loyalty and trust. For Gavin – better known as the Pole Doctor – it’s all in a day’s work but he believes that allying himself with selected shops in each town works for everyone. He explained: “The other week I had 10 sections sent to me for repair from anglers in Norfolk. Looking on a map, it was clear that they were all within 12 miles of each other. Now that is 10 individual parcels in and 10 packages back out, which is timeconsuming and costly. “Having a shop nearby that gathers the sections for repair and sends them to me in one job lot makes perfect sense and I can then spend my time on the repairs because I only have one big parcel (in an indestructible tube) to send back out.”

46

It means Gavin can turn around repairs within three days, which, as an angler and with previous experience working in a shop, he feels is very important. “Poles broken over a weekend can be sent out to me and be back in the shop for collection by Friday, in time for the following weekend’s matches or fishing outings.”

Making it work Ironically, Gavin started the business completely by mistake. “I was sitting outside a tackle shop enjoying a cup of tea and I kept seeing all these people walking in with broken pole sections. “I mentioned it to a friend who worked in the carbon division at Rolls-Royce and he showed me how to repair them.” At this time of year the Pole Doctor can expect to repair around 100 sections every week using his unique method, which involves inserting the appropriate mandrel and overlaying the carbon wraps before the sections are cured, sanded down and lacquered. He revealed: “This makes the repair even stronger than the original – I haven’t had one back in more than a decade!”

Running repairs Gavin has faced all sorts of repair jobs over the years, from poles being stood on to even mending one that had been eaten by a pig! One of his biggest challenges was repairing a pole broken in a match he was actually fishing in. “I was in a line of three anglers and the other two were using the floating pole technique.The lad next to me had his pole – all 20 metres of it – pulled out of his hands by a fish that trailed it around the lake.The other chap cast his rig over it to try and retrieve it. “As he did so, he started shipping his pole back, then there was an almighty bang. He had shipped back through the hedge behind him and onto the road, where a van had run right over it! I was still able to repair it, though!”

Expert in the field Carbon Corrections is made up of a small team with decades of experience in carbon composites, which understands how this technology is constantly developing and ensuring it as the forefront of any changes. Gavin said: “We never lose sight of the fact that whatever we may achieve in the future will be

governed by what we achieve for our customers today. “This is our ethos that has successfully brought us to this point today and that will carry us forward tomorrow. “We pride ourselves on our low prices and high-quality repairs and pole refurbishment and our unequalled customer service. We understand the importance a pole is within the armoury of the modern angler, so we endeavour to have all repairs back in your holdall as quickly as possible.” Although Gavin travels to pick up poles from shops around the East Midlands area where he is based, he feels that having a shop in each town that can gather together sections for repair and send them off to him is a fast and effective way to help customers. He is keen to discuss the opportunities with prospective shops as he looks to establish a network of selected dealers across the country.

Gavin Kinder, The Pole Doctor T: 01332 297095/07971 213998 W: www.poledoctor.co.uk

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 11:23

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Stationery Bundles

This is only a small selection of what we can do. If you have anything that needs printing, contact us today…

t: 01327 315450 e: [email protected] facebook.com/dhp.print Prices exclude VAT and are based on print-ready artwork being supplied. Free delivery to a single UK address is available on many items.

09/07/2015 13:59

FEATURE

Water Wolf

seizes success with carp pack With the massive success of the Water Wolf camera, which has sold more than 30,000 units since its introduction late last year, Prologic has expanded the concept with an accessories pack. he Water Wolf carp accessories pack has been developed to further build on the individual uses and possibilities of the Water Wolf camera – but with carp fishermen in mind. The Water Wolf camera’s true innovation is the fact that it can be mounted on your fishing line to record what goes on below the surface, but, with the carp accessories pack, it can do so much more.

T

The carp accessories kit is a useful addition to the Water Wolf camera system.

All rigged up The carp kit, which is essentially a bottom fishing kit, consists of two leads (of 55g and 75g), two protective neoprene camou

camera covers (in Mimicry Mirage and Water Ghost patterns), and a house/sled, onto which you slide and click the camera. The house or sled is supplied with a special, long-speed link and an anti-tangle tube, which lets you quickly and safely mount your rig. You simply connect the loop of the leader and the loop of the rig. Individual lead kits (of 55g, 75g and 100g) will be sold separately, and these are designed to provide ‘castable’ weight and to stabilise and ‘lift’ the camera a little bit off the bottom. The shape and positioning of the lead has been tested over

All mounted up and ready to go – the Water Wolf has been winning plenty of friends.

Prologic’s Enrico Parmeggiani demonstrates how the Water Wolf can film your rig.

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www.tandgmagazine.com

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FEATURE

six months to ensure maximum stability and to avoid tangles while casting. Used with slightly longer rigs than usual, you'll have the perfect view of your bait on every cast.

Safety first The sled is designed to be very aerodynamic and easy to cast and is completely safe for the fish, thanks to the lead drop-off system. A very important point that needs highlighting,

though, is that this system works with hollow or soft leaders. First of all, if the rig breaks, you'll still have your camera connected to your main line. Secondly, the lead is designed to eject at pre-adjusted tensions. This means that if you get snagged during the fight and your main line breaks, the fish will simply pull the pin out of the camera housing, the lead will eject, and the camera will float to the surface, where it can then

be retrieved. The fish will be able to swim away unharmed with only the hook and rig leader to get rid of, in exactly the same way as when fishing with an inline-lead setup. The carp and bottom fishing kit has been developed by Michael Trøst (MOEF) in cooperation with Prologic product manager Enrico Parmeggiani. The demand has been massive and Prologic believes that the kit will further revolutionise carp fishing.

Water Wolf Carp/ Bottom Fishing Kit Used in conjunction with the Water Wolf camera for recording stationary rigs on the bottom • Easy click-on allows you to change the camera in seconds • Attach it to your fishing line and cast out, or use a bait boat • Control the amount of tension needed before the lead drops off and the camera floats • Casts well and falls straight through the water, landing on the lead every time

Kit includes: • Polycarbonate body mount • 75g base weight • Two quick-change pins • Two tapered rubber sleeves

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13/07/2015 11:25

EXCLUSIVE

PRODUCTS

IN FOCUS

John Hunter Editor T: 01327 315412 M: 07990 542958 E: [email protected] W: www.tandgmagazine.com

What items should gun dealers have on their shelves right now? Here are a few suggestions from some of the key players in the trade.

AirForceOne Apex Predator Gas Ram Air Rifle RRP: £159.99 This premier-grade, breakbarrel hunting airgun in .22 calibre has a precision rifled steel barrel, a scope dovetail, an ambidextrous chequered German beech stock, manual safety, TRUGLO fibre-optic sights, a rubber butt pad and a gold trigger.

Range Right T: 01423 881919 E: [email protected] W: www.range-right.co.uk

Eley Hawk

Gamo

Pigeon Select Game Cartridges RRP: Call for details

GP20-Combat Pistol RRP: £45

These cartridges will hit the woodies well but not hit the pocket. Developed in conjunction with gamekeeper Geoff Garrod, they’ll work well through semi-automatics. There’s an Eley six-star crimp for crisp, clean firing and a specially developed clean-burn powder. The inner box is made from durable board for ease of handling and transportation.

This pistol uses a 12g CO2 cartridge and includes a 20-round removable BB magazine, a fixed fibre-optic rear sight and a fixed white-dot front sight. There’s also a Weaver accessory rail under the barrel and textured rubberised grips for comfort and secure handling.

Eley Hawk T: 0121 352 3272 E: [email protected] W: www.eleyhawkltd.com

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BSA Guns UK T: 0121 772 8543 E: [email protected] W: www.bsaguns.co.uk

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:15

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09/07/2015 13:59

PRODUCTS

EXCLUSIVE

IN FOCUS

Alan Paine Loden Gents’ Waterproof/Breathable Coat RRP: £309.99

Dörr Wildsnap And Wildcam Cameras RRP: From £135 These cameras feature extremely wide ranges of both IR LED flash and motion sensor, as well as fast trigger times. The Wildcam series includes blur-reduction technology. There are three pre-set ‘quick-set’ programs, their splash-water protected housings are as per IP54 and they’re supplied with fixing belts. Ruag Ammotec T: 01579 362319 E: [email protected] W: www.ruag.co.uk

Härkila Pro Gamekeeper GTX 9in Boots RRP: £319.99 Designed to withstand all that a tough day’s shooting entails, the durable fullgrain leather Gore-Tex uppers with toe bumpers, combined with the Härkila Ortholite soles for shock absorption and memory-fit heels, ensure that these boots offer great stability, support and comfort for the demands of difficult terrain.

Härkila T: 07887 997788 E: [email protected] W: harkila.com/en-gb

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With a water-repellent pure wool outer and two flap-secured cartridge pockets, this also features two handwarmer pockets, a map pocket and two secure inside pockets. There’s a drawcordadjustable waist, stud-adjust sleeve tabs and inner storm cuffs. It’s available from S to 5XL in olive and is stock supported.

Alan Paine T: 01623 415765 E: [email protected] W: www.alanpaine.co.uk

Albion Sporting Virtue Collection Cartridge Belts RRP: Call for details Handmade from high-quality, full-grain leather and fitted with hard-wearing solid-brass buckles, these belts are available to fit 12-gauge and 20-gauge cartridges. They’re available in three sizes (from 36in to 54in in total) and in dark Havana, chestnut or London tan.

Albion Sporting T: 01952 691431 E: [email protected] W: www.albionsporting.co.uk

www.tandgmagazine.com

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14/07/2015 14:15

All new

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£399

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availability and price of any product at any time. All information correct at the time of print. All RRPs are inclusive of VAT. Please note in some cases product photographs may vary from actual product.

For more information or to enquire about becoming a stockist contact: BSA Guns (UK) Ltd, Armoury Road, Birmingham B11 2PP t T: 0121 772 8543 E: [email protected] © Gamo® 2014

p053_T&G_08_Gamo.indd 1

www.gamo.com 16/07/2015 13:42

PRODUCTS

EXCLUSIVE

IN FOCUS

Chatham Chargot Country Boots RRP £179 These 100 per cent waterproof, high-leg, country walking boots are made with premium leathers for style to match their quality and comfort. The cleated rubber sole units are made with sticky rubber for extra grip, there’s a unique breathable bamboo material lining and a full-length side zip with a button fastening. Available in red brown and dark brown. Chatham T: 0845 2700 217 E: [email protected] W: www.chatham.co.uk

Remington Airgun Cleaning Kit RRP: £10.95 The Remington airgun cleaning kit is suitable for .177 (4.5mm) and .22 (5.5mm) air pistols and air rifles. It contains .177 wool mop, .177 bronze wire brush, .22 wool mop, .22 bronze wire brush, alloy handles with wood grip and multi-fit pelletremover head. Sportsmarketing T: 01206 795333 E: [email protected] W: www.sportsmk.co.uk

Bisley Country t P Products d t

Riverside Outdoor

Economy Paper Targets RRP: From £3.99 to £5.99 (per 100)

Crow Decoy RRP: £39.95

These economical targets are perfect for back-garden shooting or zeroing at the range. Each of the three designs – standard single, standard five and coloured – come in either paper or card in 17cm sq and 14cm sq sizes. For clubs and ranges, each design is also available in loose packs of 1,000 targets.

This full-feathered, ultra-realistic-looking decoy includes a built-in crow call powered by AA batteries. The feather detail is incredibly lifelike and a magpie version is also available.

John Rothery Wholesale T: 023 9224 5350 E: [email protected] W: www.bisley-uk.com

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Riverside Outdoor T: 07779 934563 W: www.riversideoutdoor.co.uk

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09/07/2015 13:58

EXCLUSIVE

PRODUCTS

IN FOCUS

John Hunter Editor T: 01327 315412 M: 07990 542958 E: [email protected] W: www.tandgmagazine.com

Which items should tackle dealers have on their shelves right now? Here are a few suggestions from some of the key players in the trade.

Wiley X Tide Fishing Glasses #CCTID04 RRP: Call for details Available in two frame/lens combinations perfect for a variety of fishing styles and marine environments, these are part of Wiley X’s popular Climate Control Series, delivering comfort and protection ideal for all-day wear on the water. These models pair unique matt hickorybrown frames with polarising Venice gold mirror lenses, with advanced eight-layer polarisation.

Leeda T: 01908 442950 E: [email protected] W: www.leeda.co.uk

NGT Captur Sling And Retainer RRP: £32.95 A year in development, this features eight independent net floats, a double zip and locking clip for security, two metres of rope and pegs to secure it to the bank, two removable bars to keep it open at all times and a fine mesh for fast drainage and fish safety. There are also six carry handles and a carry case.

Sporting Wholesale T: 0845 124 2929 W: www.sportingwholesale.com/ www.nextgenerationtackle.com

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www.tandgmagazine.com

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PRODUCTS

EXCLUSIVE

IN FOCUS

Team eam Vass

Scierra

700E 0E PVC Chest Wader P: From £89.95 RRP:

Kenai Pro Fishing Trousers RRP: £79.99

A great eat bala balance lanc la nce nc between tween the VassTex 740 and 700 wader der range, these are in a tasteful titanium nium grey with blackk Vass logo, reinforced forced knee and D-rings on the top seam for tools and suchlike. Tough and flexible, ible, these come me in cleated, studded ded and Mega-Stud ga-Stud soles (different ferent pricing applies) ies) in sizes 6 to 13. 3. Buy 10 and get one free.

These technical, all-round, highperformance fishing trousers are made from strong 320-denier nylon Taslon shell fabric with a DWR finish and are totally waterproof, with a soft, comfortable mesh body lining to the knees. They come with plenty of pockets, a higher back for warmth, an elastic belt and adjustable Velcro at the legs.

Svendsen Sport T: 01927 59659 E: [email protected] W: www.svendsen-sport.com

Smith Creek Rig Keeper RRP: Call for details

Vasss T: 01908 561560 E: [email protected] W: www.vass-tex.com

TronixPro Big Dog Hooks RRP: £1 for 10

St George Sporting T: 01604 811801 E: [email protected] W: www.stgeorgesporting.co.uk

This dropper rig system allows anglers to easily carry multiple-hook rigs that are held securely and protected from damage or loss by its patented exposed ribs. You can wear it, pocket it or throw it in your tackle box, and the exposed ribs keep flies, hooks and leaders from getting hung up and damaged, while micro slits within its custom EVA body keep them secure.

Trokar Carolina And Texas Style Flippin’ Hooks RRP: Call for details

These tough hooks are short-shank types in heavy 2x wire with in-turned beak points. They’re popular for those seeking smoothhounds and rays since, once in, they rarely fall out. They make good choices for crab baits and are great value. Snowbee UK T: 01903 732567 E: [email protected] W: www.tronixpro.com

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Eagle Claw’s Trokar specialist hooks provide predator anglers with the most comprehensive range on the market for softbait presentation. Two patterns designed for the latest Texas and Carolina styles are the TK135 (3/0 – 7/0) Flippin’ hook and the lighter TK180 (1/0 – 5/0) Light Wire Finesse. Both feature TroKar’s advanced BARB bait-retention system that supports the softest of baits for perfect presentation each time.

Reuben Heaton/Eagle Claw T: 01455 293000 E: [email protected] W: www.lazertrokaruk.com

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p56,58,60T&G_08_PIF fishing.indd 2

14/07/2015 14:17

MAGAZINES ARE CUSTOMER

MAGNETS NICHE TITLES ARE ESPECIALLY POPULAR AND WE HAVE SEVEN QUALITY ANGLING MAGS FOR YOU TO STOCK NOW!

• ATTRACT NEW CUSTOMERS • GENERATE UP–SELLING • INCREASE FOOTFALL • STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME • INCREASE CUSTOMERS’ BASKET SPEND • STOCK MAGAZINES THAT MEET CUSTOMERS’ NEEDS AND PROMOTE LATEST TRENDS • CONSUMERS VIEW SPECIALIST PUBLICATIONS AS A TREAT • KEEP YOUR SHELVES FRESH AND INTERESTING – NEW ISSUES EVERY MONTH

IF YOU’RE A TACKLE RETAILER THAT WANTS MORE CASH IN YOUR TILL

YOU NEED OUR MAGAZINES ON YOUR SHELVES CONTACT ROGER MORTIMER TODAY 01327 315405 • 07770 626034 • [email protected]

PRODUCTS

EXCLUSIVE

IN FOCUS

ASSO Bullet Proof Line RRP: £12.99 This has been developed using a secret compound that gives this line the ultimate abrasion resistance, while it remains very soft and limp for distance casting. This ground-breaking copolymer is said to be taking the carp and sea fishing scenes by storm. It's available in Silt Brown in 12lb, 15lb, 18lb, 20lb, 25lb and 30lb breaking strains on 4oz spools.

Old Ghost Match Carp Groundbait RRP: £4.99

ASSO UK T: 01304 389888 W: www.assouk.co.uk

Sidewinder Weedless Minnow Lures RRP: Call for details These minnow lures have been tested by commercial line anglers to find ones that are effective and really do avoid snags. Each includes Salt Trap Tech with real salt, a Shimmer Skin pearlescent finish, an in-built hook tube and a back groove for better hook-ups, along with top-quality components, including Mustad hooks. They’re available in packs of two. Kiddy Wholesale T: 01803 293999 E: [email protected] W: www.kiddywholesale.co.uk

Semperfli Spyder Thread RRP: £1.50 Semperfli is best known for its Nano Silk, but it has other guns in its armoury, too, including this traditional and super-fine tying thread. It's available in 19 colours in 18/0 or 30D. Semperfli T: 0845 124 2929 W: www.sportingwholesale.com/ www.nextgenerationtackle.com

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This groundbait contains so many natural ingredients that fish on commercial and natural waters find irresistible. A balanced blend of krill meal, snail, silkworm chrysalis and amino acids really sets this groundbait apart, and while it's extremely versatile it's also competitively priced. Old Ghost T: 07808 210537 W: www.oldghostbait.co.uk

TT Lures Headlock Jigheads RRP: £5.99 Built on top-quality, super-strong, Mustad Ultrapoint, chemically sharpened hooks, these are designed for mounting on top-notch plastic lures. Each one has a split-grip grub keeper on the shank, so they lock in place on soft-plastic lures without the need for glue. They come five to a pack.

Lure Lounge T: 0844 874 7386 W: www.lurelounge.co.uk

www.tandgmagazine.com

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RETAIL BUSINESS FOR SALE Established since 1960 Approximately 7000 sq ft Present owners to retain the freehold of the property

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE EMAIL:

[email protected]

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13/07/2015 12:47

FEATURE

Leica teams up for long-range field training

Specialist PR and marketing consultancy Tweed Media gathered 20 optic dealers and sporting journalists from around the country to try out Leica’s latest sport optics on the ranges at WMS Firearms Training in Wales.

T

his trip presented an invaluable opportunity to showcase what the German optic brand’s products were really capable of, with shooting at distances stretching from 70 to 1,000 yards and rifles starting at .22LR going up to a mighty .50 BMG. The main focus of the day (no pun intended) were the Geovid HD-B and HD-R rangefinding binoculars and Leica’s new ER 6.5-12x56 LRS riflescope. A number of other optics got a good look-in, too, including Rangemaster monocular rangefinders and APO Televid spotting scopes. Benjamin Walbott, from Leica headquarters in Wetzlar, was on hand to demonstrate the finer points of the rangefinding and ballistics calculation features of the products, along with Leica’s UK sales managers Jon Rigby and

62

Mark Symes, and head of UK marketing and Leica hunting pro Simon K Barr. On the rifle front, WMS owner and director Andrew Venables, and Mike Roberts, captain of the UK .50 calibre target rifle team, gave guests the benefit of their expertise.

Combining forces With guests arriving the night before their range days, the bar and private dining room of the Y Talbot Hotel in Tregaron proved to be excellent places for icebreaking. The serious business began in the morning, with a ‘full Welsh’ and a breakfast briefing from Ben and Simon. Ballistics and black pudding made a surprisingly good combination and guests were shown short videos on how Leica’s latest offerings incorporate stateof-the-art technology to maximise the chances of a successful hunt.

To transport everyone to the range, award-winning Chinese pick-up brand Great Wall provided three of its newly updated Steed SE pick-ups. Thanks to the 2015 models’ multifunctional rear-view mirrors and door-mirror-mounted side indicators, the convoy was able to manoeuvre with as much ease through the narrow lanes around Tregaron as it was over the humps and hillocks of WMS’ fields. The upgraded internal spec made for a comfortable ride and, as the Steeds drew to a halt, the external-temperature gauge reported good conditions outside too.

Clear targets At the first firing point, some 70 to 80 metres from steel targets set in a disused quarry, guests were allowed to take their pick of Leica’s most popular hunting binoculars, including the amazingly clear Ultravid 50 HD-Plus.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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FEATURE

They took it in turns to shoot using Magnus and ERi scopes at low magnification, warming up with a .22LR seated with a bench rest, then swiftly moving on to a .308 Win also from the bench. Eyes lit up as this was followed by a dramatically different .416 Rigby Big Game, shot freehand and standing, topped with a Magnus 1-6.3x24. This provided a vivid demonstration of how the scope helped speed up target acquisition with its wide field of view and Leica CDi reticle, making it ideal for driven boar or dangerous game. Trigger fingers well and truly warm, the Great Wall Steeds came back into play.Their free-spinning 2.0-litre diesel engines got guests and optics up, down and over the trickier off-road terrain leading to the next stage of the day. The second firing point was just under 200 yards from the targets. From this distance, guests took turns to shoot and spot, with shooters either prone or standing with sticks.The range wasn’t yet great enough for bullet drop to be a major factor but the wind was strong and guests had to aim off or adjust their scopes laterally to make the steel targets ring. They were grateful for their companions, who were armed with Leica’s APO Televid spotting scopes, and able to give accurate guidance on just how far the wind was pushing their bullets.

Compensating for something Things got still more technical at the third firing point.This time the targets were between 600 and 850 yards away. The extra yards meant that the ABC (Advanced Ballistic Compensation) function of the Geovid HD-B range of binoculars came into its own. The smart computer calculates what the angle, temperature, barometric pressure and distance will do to the point of aim – in

0.3 of a second. Following a brief in-field tutorial from Ben and Simon, inputting the specific load data for each round of Hornady ammunition that was fired resulted in impressive results. The final target was tackled with Mike Roberts’ .50BMG, topped with one of Leica’s new ER 6.512x56 LRS scopes. Even though it was fitted with a substantial muzzle brake, the report of the .50 calibre blanked out most other sounds for a few seconds and the blast sent a dramatic cloud of grass clippings and gunsmoke into the air. Even this extreme recoil couldn’t shake the scope and the LRS held its zero, shot after shot. Once the dust had settled, guests agreed that it had been an excellent way to see what the products were really capable of. Dave Wood of York Guns described the training as “very useful” and said that he hoped it would result in many sales. Sporting journalist Jules Whicker added: “It has certainly given me both a much clearer sense of what – and how much – Leica has to offer shooters, and a very positive feeling for the brand and how it’s now being handled in the UK.” David Miles, gunroom manager at John Rigby & Co, was so impressed that he ordered one of the scopes for his own rifle. “It was incredible to see what a top-class rifle can do when it has a top-class scope attached,” he commented. “I left the event fully confident with and convinced by the Leica rifle scopes and rangefinders to the extent that John Rigby & Co will now recommend the full range of Leica products for our rifles.” To view the videos on using Leica’s ballistics calculation and rangefinding optics, visit uk.leica-camera.com/Sport-Optics/ Rangefinders/Leica-Geovid/DetailsHD-B-42.

The visitors tried their hand with various calibres and at a variety of distances.

Even the recoil from Mike Roberts’ .50BMG couldn’t shake the Leica scope.

Photography Credit: Tweed Media

It had been an excellent way to see what the products were capable of. Guests also tried out Leica’s binoculars and spotting scopes at the event.

www.tandgmagazine.com

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13/07/2015 11:29

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CLASSIFIEDS VACANCY

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DO YOU HAVE A JOB VACANCY YOU WANT TO ANNOUNCE? ADVERTISE TO THE WHOLE TRADE FOR ONLY £80 PER MONTH Simply contact Caroline Mandaracas Tel: 01245 607 231 Mob: 07738 457 110 E-mail: [email protected] Skype: caroline-tg

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p064-65_T&G_08_Classifieds.indd 2

14/07/2015 14:39

OPINION

Sean O’Driscoll

Tackling the minimum wage

Sub Editor: Dean Kirkman

S

o the first Conservative budget in over 20 years has come and gone and it is sometimes easy to ignore what effect it will have on the shooting and fishing trades, particularly for the independent retailer. Some analysts far more qualified than I say the government’s new national living wage will have a devastating impact on independent retailers and could lead to price rises for shoppers. Our retail sector, which employs in excess of 25,000 full and parttime workers could be forced to cut jobs, reduce staff working hours and pass on additional costs to their shoppers when the wage, announced in the recent budget, is introduced next April at £7.20 an hour for the over-25s. I am not privy to what shop workers are paid in our trade, but you get the feeling that it generally isn’t going to be a ‘lot of money’. For many of them it is an extension of their hobby and it provides openings to get a bit of sport on the cheap. Come to think of it, I’m not sure I know too many people who have gone into the fishing or shooting retail game as a shop assistant and seen it as a career. You have to wonder how many of our shops will be able to pay their staff the £7.20 per hour. One of the somewhat ‘grey’

EDITORIAL Editor In Chief: John Hunter Tel: 01327 315412 Mobile: 07990 542958 E-mail: [email protected]

areas within our industry is the percentage of ‘paying cash in hand’ that does or doesn’t go on. Does it happen, because I can’t believe that it doesn’t? No-one really talks about it, but when you look at the squeeze on margins these days something has to give. The Low Pay Commission estimates that more than 100,000 adults receive below the legal rates – and the actual figure is probably considerably higher because of under-reporting of the problem. The TUC believes that between 250,000 and 300,000 employees could be unlawfully denied the minimum wage.

Again you do wonder whether our trades even register in these figures. More likely, they are abstracted from our chain stores and supermarkets rather than the true independent specialist retailer. Although it is supposed to be illegal to pay staff below those levels, it is not uncommon for some employers to use a variety of ruses to sidestep the rates. Ministers and HM Revenue and Customs, which has responsibility for enforcing payment of the minimum wage, are preparing “tough new measures” against unscrupulous employers who try to exploit their lowest paid staff members. Mind you, we have heard all that before. Shop workers are not generally well paid and I do not see those in our industry getting above the average (it would be nice to hear from some employees. If they wish to e-mail me [email protected] in confidence about their experiences I’d love to know more), but we are generally in ‘poor’ markets, although some will argue against that. This is another burden that I am sure most shop owners could do without, but maybe I’m wrong. Maybe there is a blessing in disguise with the reduction in corporation tax from 20 to 18 per cent by the year 2020! Perhaps this will pay for the wage rises? Whoopee!

ADVERTISING Business Development Manager: Caroline Mandaracas Tel: 01245 607231 Mobile: 07738 457110 E-mail: [email protected] Publisher: Sean O’Driscoll Tel: 01327 315407 Mobile: 07788 922976 E-mail: [email protected] Ad Production Manager: Paul Evans Tel: 01327 315450 Production Controller: Lea Terry Tel: 01327 315423

DESIGN Creative Director: Mark Grafton Design: Nicola Howe & Joel Howe Advert Design: Stephanie Horn, Harvey Palmer Reprographics Manager: Derek Mooney

David Hall Publishing Ltd, 1 Whittle Close, Drayton Fields, Daventry, Northamptonshire NN11 8RQ Tel: +44 (0)1327 311999 Fax: +44 (0)1327 315430 Website: www.tandgmagazine.com www.facebook.com/tackleandguns Twitter: @tackleandguns

Statistics – Who gets this magazine? This month’s edition of Tackle & Guns has been sent out to a total of 5,343 people in the industry. This is broken down as follows: Retailers of both fishing and shooting 711 Agents and reps of both fishing and shooting – including clothing 94 Wholesalers and manufacturers of both fishing and shooting – including clothing 102 Retailers of fishing equipment only 1,619 Agents of fishing equipment only 187 Wholesalers and manufacturers of fishing 588 equipment only

66

Fisheries 265 Retailers of shooting equipment only 757 Agents of shooting equipment only 42 Wholesalers and manufacturers of shooting equipment only 307 Shooting grounds and clubs 290 Press, public relations and others 326 Firearm officers 55 Total circulation 5,343

DHP Ltd welcomes unsolicited manuscripts, news and ideas. However, we regret that we are unable to guarantee the return of any material submitted. All material used remains the copyright of DHP Ltd. Views expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or the staff of the magazine. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electrical, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of DHP Ltd. All rights reserved.

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14/07/2015 14:18

YOU CAN FIND OUR PRODUCTS AT EXCLUSIVE SPECIALIST RETAILERS AND ONLINE AT WWW.SWAROVSKIOPTIK.COM

FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THE X5/X5i.

BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II SWAROVSKI OPTIK SUPPLIER OF BINOCULARS

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