It's been several years since I began culling operations for the cattle farmer I currently shoot for. I'm registered with the government to shoot kangaroos which is strictly regulated here in Australia, and I'm the only shooter permitted to do so on the property. I also cull deer, foxes, rabbits and hares although I'll be honest and say the last two on that list are not worth the cost of ammunition. I shoot at the farm each week usually, sometimes twice if time permits, yet never meet the annual quota of kangaroos he is permitted to eradicate. Having said that, I still tend to go through a reasonable amount of ammunition in the process of my culling operations, all of which needs to be replenished.
Counting cost
I make my own ammunition, you'd know this if you follow my posts; it takes time and costs money. I need to ensure my ammunition is of a high standard, it's *precision-made, and as a long range shooter precision equipment and ammunition is a requirement.
The cost of the ammunition I make is difficult to determine as the brass (cartridge case) is reused multiple times however the .243 rounds I use for culling are about $2(AUD)/round. Keeping in mind these are precision-loaded and prepared ammunition with a load designed specifically for the rifle that fires them, that's pretty cheap. As a comparison standard factory-made 87gr Vmax ammunition costs about $48(AUD)/20. Match-grade ammunition, the better quality factory-made rounds, could be double that for a box of 20, but my ammunition is still of a better quality than that again...so, $2/round isn't too bad.
Here's the thing, the culling operation I perform isn't paid work. The farmer doesn't pay me a cent, not for my time or ammunition.
I do it because it gives me exclusive access to a beautiful property any time I like and on which I can shoot. If you know anything about shooting here in Australia, you'll know how difficult it is to gain property like this; gaining the trust of farmers is incredibly difficult, so it's a privilege to be given unrestricted access like I have.
I've shot upon the cattle farm, a rather large expanse of land, for several years and used a lot of ammunition with no recompense other than having access and permit to shoot which I've been happy with...that is, until last week.
Money shot
I've never asked for, or expected, anything from the property owner; it's not my way.
It's a privilege to have access to the property, to be trusted as I am, and that's enough. He didn't think so yesterday though. I took a call and he told me he wanted to send me some money. I said no of course, but he insisted. I gave him my bank account and overnight a few hundred dollars came through which I thought was a nice gesture. It doesn't pay for all of the ammunition I've used over the years, but it's helpful and will go a long way towards components for the ammunition I'll use over the next several months to a year.
I called and thanked him and he brushed it off, in turn thanking me for what I do for him; it keeps his costs down and makes his farm more productive. It was a nice call and the two of us ended it feeling pretty happy.
There are times when I go to the property and simply hike and I take a book and and sit there and read also; mostly I'm shooting but not always.
It's a beautiful place to be, complete with a creek, rolling hills and massive gum trees. When I go there, I know I'll be alone and that brings me a nice feeling; the peace and quiet is almost cathartic. I feel greatly privileged to have access and I treat it well and with responsibility, as this opportunity deserves. After years of going there the farmer felt inclined to thank me with a little money but I didn't need it, the property is payment enough.
Design and create your ideal life, don't live it by default - Tomorrow isn't promised so be humble and kind
Any images in this post are my own
The part we saw was lovely. The rolling hills; I bet dusk and dawn are incredible.
The sunsets are magnificent and it greens up so well for eight months of the year. You saw it at it's worst. Now though, it's looking pretty nice.
The access to that solitude and scenery is worth it, but it was a nice gesture of his to say thank you in that way. He clearly values your assistance with the problem animal management side of things and I hope your partnership with him continues on for a long time. I know that you would miss being out there, in every photo I've seen, it looks like a lovely place to read and relax while waiting for the evening.
Reloading (even though time consuming) definitely saves you some cash long term and the knowledge that your round is going to do exactly what you need it to, well that's a no-brainer.
The most important thing to me is access to this property, you've seen it, you know why.
Indeed, I certainly would. Sometimes I'd like some company, but mostly I'm happy to be there alone, to be with nature, and of course, bang away behind the long gun when the need arises.
Such a great spot. Totally agree on saving the good ammo for where it's needed. Now we need to get you hooked up with that PCP air rifle for the rabbits, foxes and such. There's just something about sending that lead downrange quietly that is addicting.
I'd like to say I'm in gun buying mode but I've got plenty already, each with its specific function, and with the cost of living rising I'm focusing on other areas from a financial perspective. I'll not rule it out altogether though, more guns are always on the agenda.
Not the kind of money shot I usually take…😝
Seems like a mutually beneficial agreement but a little money is a nice gesture.
Lol, at least someone got the reference and acknowledged my brilliant word play.
Yeah, every one's a winner. 😀
You know I’m always up for some word play!
Indeed you are.
I know how much you love going up to the farm and inhaling the magic of mother nature while you keep an eye on whatever is over the hill.
What a wonderful opportunity for you and you are a true asset to your friend. With ammo harder to come by lately, it makes the reloading even more attractive than they already were.
Oh, the view!
Hi,Galen!
I'm lucky to have access and he's lucky I'm happy to shoot without needing anything in return; it's a good mutual situation. I was surprised at the money and it makes me feel a little awkward but I wasn't about to snub his generosity. He probably did it more for himself than me. I'm ok with it as I do the same.
Yep, nice view.
Yes. Exactly that.
He probably is doing it for himself, but he may ask you to do something extra. It has worked out nicely for you and I am sure it will continue for a long while.
Almost 3 am... I am off!
Quite the beautiful place in that second photo.
It sure is, and no matter if it's brown and crispy in summer, or lush and green for the other months of the year, I find it's a beautiful place to be.
I guess if it makes him feel better to give you money it's a bonus for you :)
Gotta love nice working relationships like that :D
It works out pretty well for sure. It's so difficult to get properties to shoot on, and this one is a cracker!
Hi Mr @tarazkp.
You are very lucky to have access and unlimited, above all is the fun of shooting which is a hobby of many people.
The operational costs including ammunition are worth everything you get there. Apart from that, there is another pleasure that you can get, which is to get good photos like the ones you mentioned earlier.
I don't think that's a problem for you, is it?
I'm not @tarazkp, that's my brother.
I don't really call killing things fun, it's a necessary part of farming though, and someone has to donut. I'd rather it's me as I shoot in a responsible manner and humanely dispatch what I kill.
It's good to have access to the property for otter reasons though, as you mention, taking some photos is also enjoyable.
I apologize for mispronouncing your name because of the wrong click on the name that appears, I am so sorry Mr @galenkp.
What fun means is shooting as something that is allowed and done according to the rules, as you have done.
No worries, I figured you got confused.
It's a wonderful gesture and I am glad the farmer deemed it fit. Yes, it didn't cover your costs and like they say, what comes from the heart touches the heart. Knowing you, you have been an incredible person and to do that over the years without asking for anything other than unrestricted access and soaking up the atmosphere says a lot about you sir... A man of simple taste and integrity. What a view you enjoy there sir... What a view.
Simple with integrity. I like that description of me. ✅
Perfectly describes you sir.
Super awesome post thank you very much and excellent explanation behind the time effort and expense it takes to make one quality round let alone enough for sustained operations.
Awesome job man keep it up
Thanks for the feedback mate, much appreciated.