The classic entry weapon for young hunters nowadays is the repeating rifle, with the shotgun usually following shortly after as a second purchase. However, in Grandpa's time, combined weapons like the Drilling were the classic weapon for both inexperienced and seasoned hunters. In principle, a combined weapon can still be sensible, as one can shoot different calibers, for example. Below is a brief overview of the advantages and disadvantages of the various combined long guns.
The Drilling
The most common variant of the Drilling is the shotgun Drilling, which is a combination of two shotgun barrels (usually in caliber 12/70) and one rifle barrel. The increasingly rare variant of the shotgun Drilling with a rifle barrel in the closed season caliber is called the Waldläufer. In principle, any combination of different shotgun and rifle barrels is conceivable. In most cases, the classic variation of two shotgun barrels & one rifle barrel does not meet the hunting requirements of most hunters, which is why a rifled insert barrel is often placed in one of the shotgun barrels. This way, there is often a large and a small caliber as well as a shotgun caliber available, making it the ideal answer for fox, boar, and hare. However, the multitude of variations also brings a significant disadvantage to the Drilling: it is too complicated for many hunters. If the handling of the weapon has not become second nature, it can happen in the heat of the moment to confuse the trigger and accidentally shoot the boar with shot or, even more dangerously, shoot the duck in the air with the bullet. Another disadvantage lies in the high weight of the weapon. Three barrels and possibly an insert barrel can make the weight of the weapon very unwieldy.
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The Bockbüchsflinte
A Bockbüchsflinte (BBF) has one shotgun and one rifle barrel and can also be converted into a double rifle or a Bergstutzen using an insert barrel, just like the Drilling. In general, a BBF is lighter, slimmer, and more manageable than a Drilling and somewhat less complicated. For many hunters, it is the more contemporary sitting weapon and is also well-suited for stalking.
The Bergstutzen
Bergstutzen have two rifle barrels of different calibers. For many hunters, this combination is the most elegant of the combined weapons. Shotgun barrels in combined weapons often come with the disadvantage that it is unusual to look through a scope when shooting with shot. Many game animals that can be taken with a shotgun can also be hunted with a small bullet while sitting. Additionally, the low weight of the weapon is also suitable for stalking.
The greatest advantage of combined weapons lies in having the right bullet in one of the barrels for different game and various hunting situations. Furthermore, they often embody an ideal and traditional value and are often of excellent craftsmanship.
