Shotgun guru takes us to school on new guns, innovations, technology and shooting better

Upland Nation

"Figure out what your gun likes ..." one of the best pieces of advice you'll ever get from shotgun guru and Gun Dog magazine writer Brad Fitzpatrick. He's authored the shotgun column in the magazine for years, and has the enviable job of test-shooting everything new and classic in the shotgun world. Brad is a bird hunter, TV host, author of five books and countless articles, and he's here to share his insights on everything from technology and materials to the care and feeding of your shotgun.

We'll get schooled on the differences between "value" guns and high end firearms, what to look for in fit, finish, engineering and design. Brad shares some of the more innovative materials and designs he's tested recently, and shares experiences bird hunting in southern Africa. He tells us how he tried (and failed) to destroy the finish on one shotgun, and offers tips on storing, shooting, and carrying our firearms n the field.

We talk about the merits of a 3-inch 28-gauge gun, and his own choice for the ideal field gun - and why.

"Road Trip" acknowledges some of the lesser-known public-access providers, and I discuss why only one-third of you train with a partner or group ... and why you might want to reconsider that!

And it's all brought to you by: Sage & Braker Mercantile, LandTrust.com, HiVizSights.com, Pointer Shotguns, @midwayusa, #midwayusa, Midway USA, Mid Valley Clays and Shooting School, TrulockChokes, HiViz shooting systems, ESPAmerica, Purina Pro Plan Sport and FindBirdHuntingSpots.com.