The afternoon was co-hosted by the Eastern Cape Chapter of the Southern African Arms and Ammunition Collectors Association and was different in that the shooting events were only to be performed using antique firearms, making use of the ancient and "mystical" gunpowder, also known as black powder.
Much smoke and noise was made and many a Husky dog food can filled with water was "exploded" at fifty metres.
The accuracy of these old 'smoke-poles' was surprising.
After the shooting had ceased and the smoke had cleared, a prize-giving was followed by a braai and lots of pleasant "gun chat".
One of the aims of the occasion was to try to create a little public awareness regarding the fact that a firearm doesn't kill or injure a person by itself; it is the person that pulls the trigger that does the killing or injuring. Firearms, both antique and modern, are a source of much fun and entertainment to many people and if used properly and responsibly, can be fun.
A flintlock pistol about to be fired on the shooting range.
