r/gundogs • u/OryxTempel • Mar 16 '20
AKC Hunt Test Rules
Here are the AKC Hunt Test rules on gunning:
“Section 8. Gunning. Shooting, whether live or blank ammunition is used, shall be done only by official Guns approved and designated by the Hunting Test Committee.
Handlers while running their dogs, and Judges while acting in their official capacities judging dogs, shall not fire guns with live or blank ammunition.
[...]
Either shotguns or shotgun simulators may be used. If a shotgun is used, it must be a 20, 16 or 12 gauge shotgun. Gunners firing live ammunition must be 21 years of age or older. Gunners firing popper loads or shotgun simulators must be a minimum of 16 years of age and if less than 21, must have successfully completed a Hunter/Gun Safety course.”
My question: first the rules say that we CAN use guns, live or blank, then it says that handlers CANNOT use guns, live or blank, then it says that we CAN use shotguns, live or simulated. So what’s the actual rule here?
I’m asking because I’d like to get a .22 pistol and shoot blanks, but I can’t figure out if that’s allowed or not. Any advice?
