Fussy

And are you reloading ammo? If so, this can keep the costs down, eg. A Lee loader kit can be under $80 new or $50 second hand. All you need is a hammer and components (and eye protection). Reloading for a .308 means I can use lighter projectiles for small game, eg. 110 grain for goats/dogs, or heaver for deer/pigs. This gives me the option of NOT having to buy 2-3 different rifles. I'd say go to the local range and shoot there. Find out what you like, talk to the guys who have been there and done that, they will welcome newbies, especially those who turn up as a club member, (help out at working bees). Ask them what they recommend for you type of hunting. Put the word out that you need a gun, they may have 2nd hand for sale, which you can test out at the range. They may also have accessories to go with it, eg. slings, loading gear, and lots of advice. Then, as Bruce Lee said, "Keep what is useful, discard what is not". What is the nearest town to you? You may find good contacts here or the range. Or send me a PM.

First attempt? Cr@ps all over mine! I still have the mild-steel knife I made as a 16yo. When it bends cutting a sapling, you swap hands and bend it back the other way!

I've used Oliver All Terrain with good effect in hot and sub-zero weather. https://www.oliver.com.au/45-series-150mm-black-lace-up-boot-45645 Soft-ish tread, which means less crunchy when walking. Non-metal cap, but still have to remove in some airports.

True, but this was 40C on the day in Qld...

Hard yakka or similar cotton workwear. Grey/khaki, green. Red stag 9.5 points walked to about 5m away from me. Silence and remaining still are skills to acquire before you shell out for camo.

Thanks. I will try to use the plaster (oscillating) saw) from the local clinic.

Cutting antler? So I want to split some antlers to use as handles. I understand it's basically tightly packed hair, so cut slowly? Or split it like long grain timber? Any suggestions greatly appreciated.

Used to use auscam, soaked in "peregin" (a pyrethrum product, made from daisies or similar). Never had problems with it as far as skin rashes, but it worked on mozzies. Not sure if the game you hunt will smell it, but use the Bushman or army issue DEET (same ingredient as Rid).

New member from Qld. Hunting since a kid, but slowly learning how to do it properly for a change. Mostly ferals, on my own property, usually.