Grouse Points

Description

Grouse Points isn’t exactly a how-to book, but it’s chockfull of information on how to select, train, and bond with a grouse dog; tactics for flushing grouse over a pointing dog; tips for improving wingshooting; information on grouse hunting customs, codes, and etiquette; and much more. Though the author came by his grouse hunting education “the hard way,” through 50 years of busting brush behind a bevy of hard-charging bird dogs, there’s nothing dogmatic or preachy about the way he imparts advice. Rather, his clever insights come couched in the context of entertaining stories told with humor and a deep feeling for the dogs, the birds, and the wild northwoods coverts where this timeless pursuit carries on every fall. Almost half of the 37 remarkable essays in Grouse Points are written specifically about interacting with grouse dogs. Like William Harnden Foster, McIntyre believes that “Hunting with a good dog during the shooting season is the essence of the sport.” Among the book’s many delights are the black-and-white drawings and color plates depicting the canine hunting companions that McIntyre and his family have owned. These charming pencil drawings, paintings, and striking needlework illustrations were created by the author’s wife, Anita, whose skilled artwork complements the stories and helps bring them to life. Grouse hunters, who tend to enjoy nice things like fine double guns and aged single-malt Scotch, will love this book’s quality craftsmanship. Grouse Points is well put together, from its engaging storytelling and beautiful illustrations to its lovely design and excellent production values.