Training for AKC tests

[tprice aka cowboy]

I am looking to run a couple AKC hunt tests this fall and would really appreciate some help. Is there anyone within a couple hours of memphis who would be up to showing me some of the finer points to transition from HRC to AKC tests.

[Karen Klotthor]

Mid South Ret club is out of that area. On Sept 24 & 25 they are holding an AKC hunt in Bruce. You might want check it out.

[Mark Evans]

I found the three biggest differences to be: 1. You will have a live flyer shot. Be sure to work your dog on that. 2. Once you signal to the judges that you are ready, you may not talk to your dog until you release him. 3. You can't release your dog until the judge either calls his number or says, "dog."

Good luck. Master tests can be pretty tough, but your dog can handle it.

Mark

[GulfCoast]

You will find the blinds are judged tighter in Master. Be sure and cross the line to the blind/don't run a one sided blind, as some (not all) Master judges are ticky about that. Have fun!

[fishduck]

The biggest difference I notice is the marks. They are typically much tighter than finished. Be prepared for inlines, indents, and over unders. My experience is much more technical marks and blinds.

FWIW my older dog with terrible line manners went 6 for 7 in Master and sat like a stone. Train for it and you will be fine.
Mark Land

[RoosterHunter]

You possibly could have a poison bird, First Mark is thrown, call your dog off that mark and run a blind under the arc of the first bird. The other marks are thrown then you pick up the marks in any order.

I would also be ready for a quad.

Good Luck

[GulfCoast]

You will see an actual "retired" gun from time to time, too. And its not unusual to have to run 4 blinds, with at least one of them a double blind. But in general, think of it as a big finished test crammed into 1/2 the space with a fake gun while playing "the quiet game."