A Taste of Africa

My wife, Barbara, is not an experienced rifle shot, so this past year when she drew a Maine moose permit, I thought it would be helpful to order her a set of shooting sticks. To my great pleasure, in the process of tracking down the best sticks available, I discovered a company that caters to not only discriminating big-game hunters but also wingshooters looking to outfit themselves for the field and home.
    In 2002 Jim and Elisabeth Morando began making African Shooting Sticks based on a tripod design they had used while honeymooning in Zimbabwe. They formed the company Sporting Wood Creations to market the product, and business grew quickly. Today the premium sticks are made from imported or domestic hardwoods and have padded tops of leather, zebra skin or Cape buffalo. They come in various lengths and are fitted with aluminum takedown connectors. Bipods, monopods and entry-level sticks have been added to the line as well.
    In time the Morandos began offering other products that would bring the African experience home. Items like British campaign furniture; plains-game rugs; tusk canes; and collectibles such as spears, shields, knives and jewelry. Then this past year they expanded further with practical safari gear, including a full line of clothing, TurtleSkin pants and chaps, Tuffpack gun cases, and Swarovski optics.
    The shift in focus from shooting sticks to a broader range of products prompted a company name change to African Sporting Creations. This more accurately reflected the Morandos’ vision of becoming a full-service provider for the safari experience.
    But you don’t have to be heading to the Dark Continent to appreciate the items offered. One product line sure to interest shooters everywhere is a set of Cape buffalo soft cases for shotguns, double rifles or scoped rifles. Made of tanned Cape buffalo hide, each case has double-stitched wrap-around handles, high-density foam, a full suede lining, protective flaps for the gun’s stock and muzzle, and a sturdy YKK zipper. Adding to the character of the cases is the odd blemish from tooth, claw or thorn—evidence that the hides’ former wearers actually roamed the plains of Africa. Prices range from $399 for the side-by-side case to $349 for the over/under.
    Looking to attract attention at the range? How about shell carriers made of saddle leather with zebra-hide accents? The line includes a shell bag ($249) that will hold 100 rounds, a shell pouch ($109) that will hold a single box, and a “Spair Pair” two-shell carrier ($39). Set yourself up with one of these, and even if you don’t go straight on the 5 Stand course, you’re sure to be the envy of the squad.
    And for the hunter who appreciates functionality as well as style, there is footwear from the Courteney Boot Co., in Zimbabwe. Made entirely of genuine game skin, each boot is unique and carries its own serial number. The Selous ($285) is the top of the line—smart looking, with Cape buffalo uppers and a padded impala collar surrounding the ankle and lower calf. The rubber “tyre” tread sole is durable and provides all-terrain traction. This boot would be suitable for bird hunting on the prairie or a casual day at the office.
    So many ways to weave the fabric of Africa into everyday life.
    For more information on safari-related products, contact African Sporting Creations, 423-975-7626; www.sportingwoodcreations.com.  —Ralph P. Stuart