I agree with the observations about income and time required. But I think there's also something to be said for recruitment.
As someone who didn't grow up in a hunting/shooting family, i found it hard to "get in." I met some very nice people eventually, but on the whole it isn't the most welcoming community--and I even fit the profile (43, white, male, rural upbringing, beer gut). I can't imagine what it must be like for the urban black kid who wants to start duck hunting. I wasn't EXCLUDED, but there is a definite sense of old boys club.
I learned almost all I know about hunting and reloading from a handful of generous souls who didn't mind taking the time to share their experience and knowledge, and didn't shame the stupid question. Unfortunately, a lot of then are now dead.
As someone who didn't grow up in a hunting/shooting family, i found it hard to "get in." I met some very nice people eventually, but on the whole it isn't the most welcoming community--and I even fit the profile (43, white, male, rural upbringing, beer gut). I can't imagine what it must be like for the urban black kid who wants to start duck hunting. I wasn't EXCLUDED, but there is a definite sense of old boys club.
I learned almost all I know about hunting and reloading from a handful of generous souls who didn't mind taking the time to share their experience and knowledge, and didn't shame the stupid question. Unfortunately, a lot of then are now dead.
