Game Recovery: Retrieve and transport shot game without strain
After the shot, the animal should get to the car and into the chiller quickly and cleanly. The right helpers save you strength and time along the way.
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Game Recovery: From the shot to the larder
Once the animal is down, the most strenuous part of the day often begins. Game has to be pulled out of cover, brought to the vehicle and chilled as quickly as possible. Well-planned game recovery spares your back and makes sure the venison stays clean and fresh. For this there are game drags, game tubs, winches and hitch carriers, each of which takes care of one stage of the journey.
Pulling and carrying
For the first stretch in the woods, a game drag is ideal. With a pulling strap and handle you can move roe deer, boar or stag much more easily over the woodland floor and meadow. In snow or on soft ground, a game tub glides particularly well, while the animal stays clean and the hide is protected. Folding tubs are easy to carry when rolled up, and sturdy forestry tubs are also good for firewood and tools.
Lifting and driving
Heaving heavy animals onto a load bed can quickly hurt your back. A winch lifts the game without much effort, for example onto the trailer or onto the hook in the larder. For transport, the hitch carrier on the tow bar has proved its worth. The game travels outside the car, the interior stays clean, and air can flow past the carcass. Covers and nets protect the load on the road.
Frequently asked questions
How quickly does shot game need to be chilled?
As soon as possible. After gralloching, the carcass should cool down promptly and then be stored at no more than 7 °C. On warm days it is best to take it straight to the chiller.
How do I recover an animal from a steep slope on my own?
Pull the animal downhill or across the slope where possible and use a game drag with a strong strap. For heavy animals, a hand winch fixed to a sturdy tree helps. Always work so that you are never standing below the load.
Can I carry game uncovered on a hitch carrier?
Game should be covered in transit, so it is protected from dirt and not visible to other road users. A cover or net does both. Also check lights and number plate in case the carrier hides them.
Helpers for recovering game
Each stage of recovery has its own tool. For transport by car, Hitch Carriers on the tow bar spare the interior and let the game cool down well. On snow, wet ground or for crossing rough terrain, Game Tubs are practical, keeping the animal clean while it glides easily. You can pull heavy animals onto the trailer or onto the hook in the larder with a Winch. And for the first few metres out of cover, Game Drags with a pulling strap and handle are the simplest solution, small enough for any jacket pocket. That way every animal gets to where it belongs quickly and cleanly.