Hunting terms explained – a comprehensive guide to the language of hunting

Hunting has a language all of its own. For both new and experienced hunters, understanding hunting terms can be crucial to understanding the rules, safety practices and traditions of hunting. In this guide, we explain the most common terms to help you feel better prepared – both in the high seat and in conversation after the hunt.

What are hunting terms?

Hunting terms are the established words and expressions used by hunters. Many have their roots in old hunting traditions and are still used today by newcomers, experienced rifle hunters and those taking part in group hunts.

Common hunting terms explained

Game (vildt)

Game is the collective term for animals that may legally be hunted in Denmark. It includes both furred and feathered game.

Furred game (hårvildt)

Furred game covers mammals such as roe deer, red deer, fallow deer, foxes and hares.

Feathered game (fuglevildt)

Feathered game refers to bird species that may be hunted, such as pheasants, grey partridges, ducks, geese and pigeons.

Game taken (nedlagt vildt)

When an animal has been cleanly shot and killed, it is described as having been taken. The expression is used to show respect for the game.

Wounding (anskydning)

Wounding occurs when game is hit but does not fall on the spot. It calls for immediate action and a follow-up search.

Following up wounded game (eftersøgning)

This is the work of locating wounded game. In Denmark, following up wounded game is a legal requirement and is often carried out with a specially trained tracking dog.

Blood trail (schweiss)

Schweiss means blood and refers to the trail left by wounded game. Blood-tracking dogs are specially trained to follow these trails.

Backstop (kuglefang)

A backstop is the safe area behind the game that will stop the bullet. A suitable backstop is essential for safe hunting.

Shot opportunity (skudchance)

A shot opportunity is assessed by whether it is safe and responsible to shoot, taking account of distance, angle, backstop and overall safety.

Stand (post)

A stand is the position allocated to a hunter during a hunt, particularly on group hunts such as driven hunts and quiet drives.

Pre-hunt briefing (parole)

The pre-hunt briefing sets out the safety rules and hunting instructions before the hunt begins. It covers safe shooting directions, stands and the type of hunt.

Driven hunt (drivjagt)

A driven hunt is a form of hunting in which beaters move through the ground, driving game towards hunters waiting at their stands.

Quiet drive (trykjagt)

A quiet drive is similar to a driven hunt but takes place at a gentler pace and with fewer people, encouraging game to move more naturally.

Flight (træk)

This term is used particularly in bird shooting and describes the regular flight paths birds follow between resting and feeding areas.

Buck fever (jagtfeber)

Buck fever is the excitement and nervousness that can arise when game comes close. It is perfectly normal – even for experienced hunters.

Trigger pull (aftræk)

The trigger pull is the action of pressing the trigger to fire a shot.

Calibre (kaliber)

Calibre describes the size of the ammunition and is a term used primarily in rifle hunting.

Field dressing (opbrækning)

Field dressing is the initial preparation of game in the field, when the internal organs are removed to allow the meat to cool quickly.

Why is it important to know hunting terms?

Understanding the language of hunting improves safety in the field, makes briefings and instructions easier to follow, reinforces hunting ethics and respect for game, and helps new hunters feel better prepared.

Hunting terms are part of hunting culture

Hunting terms are more than just words. They are part of hunting's traditions, ethics and sense of community. Knowing the language makes hunting both safer and more rewarding.