Part of the attraction of moving to the UK was the opportunity to take part in activities that are new to us. Joining the Shoot has been a lot of fun as we built the pheasant pen and subsequently have had to learn to look after the little beasts prior to being able to shoot at them later in the season.

The next step for me was to buy a suitable gun. Now guns, like cars, are a commodity of which many believe one can never have enough. Also like cars, you can spend just as much money as you like on them. And then some.

Guided by Mr. FM I became a gun owner on Saturday. Strictly speaking that's not true as until I get my Shotgun Certificate I don't own the weapon which is registered in accordance with the strict rules on his certificate and stored in his gun safe. All of this makes good sense and is handled very professionaly by the retailer and the police.

I tried several guns - all 12 guage shotguns - in and around my price range and settled on a 10 year old Browning Medallist which just felt right. It came up to the shoulder easily, had a well engineered and pleasing action and was not as heavy as some I have used. It's an 'over and under', rather than the traditional lock stock and two smoking 'side by side' style, which I am advised is easier to use and more accurate. All in all a good beginners gun.

Post purchase we headed to the shoot for a spot of clay shooting practice and I was pleasantly surprised that I managed to hit a few. And it was damn good fun too.

Clearly a good gun.

Still have a slightly sore shoulder today!