Size of Chukar...

[Huntingonthebrain]

I have a DT systems Quail launcher. It fits a good sized pigeon. Anyone know if it would handle a chukar??? I was looking at getting some young pheasants for training, but my dog is not quite as steady to wing and shot as I would like...and the launcher will def not fit them. Think my launcher would it fit a chukar??? If they don't would they flush and fly well enough to keep my dog from catching'em?? I have seen some in the past that seemed to fly ok... not really really far.. but they seemed to fly more instinctively then run. Or am I on the wrong track completelyWould chukar fly better?

[Sharon]

A smaller, younger sized chukar will fit. The chukar I have now fit. There is one bigger bruiser that's like fitting a size 18 into a size 14. I prefer chukar for a more mature young dog .

[Huntingonthebrain]

I have just found out that I cannot even shoot a bird that has been launched from a mechanical launcher... so I guess that idea is out. I guess I will just have to plant them in field and hope that if they flush (if my dog gets to close) that he will not catch them and that they will fly well enough to keep that from happening.

[Sharon]

Right now I would be planting the bird myself, keeping a long check cord on the dog, be there when he goes on point, use the check cord while you flush and shoot blanks. Having a helper would make it easier.. Lift him back to the original spot if he breaks.

Until he is steady on the check cord do not run him off cord on birds. Every time he breaks without correction , you've taken a backward step.

Run him off cord for handling , patterning , conditioning training.

A launcher is best used for more advanced skills like backing and steady to a wild flush.

At this point in his development, it is unlikely that he will be broke for this year's hunting season. Wild birds will make him even less broke. He will likely bust birds out of gun range. I don't want to discourage you , but imho these are things you need to think about , Jeremy.