| | 
Suggested Rules of Engagement for Direction Finding (DF) Hunters 
Based on years of information received from local DF hunters the following "rules" have been adopted to make local DFing safer and more fun. Remember, these are suggestions from a majority of the hunters and are not my rules. I personally believe that these ideas will hone the skills of the hiders as well as the skills of the hunters. being a bunny or a hider takes more skills then being a DFer, bunny hunter or a fox hunter. Bob Ledford - Webmaster
The hidden transmitter (TX) signal must be clearly received on a 1/4 wave magnetic mount antenna at the starting line by at least 90% of the hunters present at the Starting Point (SP). Remember it is supposed to be fun not a job! Handouts, rules or special instructions must be provided at the starting line, or over the 147.150 MHZ repeater. The hider or bunny must test the hide site or sites prior to the day of the hunt and know that everything works i.e., Mr Bunny if you cannot be heard you surely will never be found. For safety of all, no TX(s) shall be hidden on private property (unless clearance is given by the property owner and so stated prior to the hunt to all the participating hunters, any busy street, dangerous or congested locations. No Interstate highway right of way sites are allowed. Think Safety! The hunt will last up to the time the bunny sets unless the hunt time is extended or shortened by request from hunters who have been determined by the bunny to be in the immediate area and expect to find the fox in a few minutes, or all have given up. Once the hunter has found the hidden TX they should collect their markers (place number) and immediately leave the area of the hidden TX location without calling attention to the spot. This will level the playing field for all participants, regardless of skills or equipment qualities. Every hunt does not have to be more complex or difficult then the last one. Every now and then we all like a plain and simple hunt. Equipment shortcomings always make things more complex for some. Striving to keep it simple for all, then maybe most everyone except the person with equipment short comings will enjoy it. Horizontal polarization is frowned upon unless everyone is told prior to the hunt start.
These thoughts are to give everyone an equal chance. Remember, the harder the hunt is the fewer hunters will find the TX. However, hunts must remain a challenge for all. Everyone is happiest if they can find the TX, even if they are not first.
Updated: 12.27.2007 |
