We look at the difference between the DSC1 and PDS1 deer stalking certificate, and why Swarovski Optik have thrown their support behind the PDS1.
With a global reputation for quality and customer service, world leaders in quality optics, Swarovski Optik, have thrown their support behind the UK’s Proficient Deer Stalking Certificate Level 1. (PDS1).
Swarovski Optik are one of the most highly regarded producers of hunting and shooting equipment in the world. Established in 1949 they now lead the field in producing high quality rifle scopes and binoculars.
With the company's highly innovative approach and with recent releases including the Swarovski dS Gen II rifle scope, the TA and EL Range Binocular, and most recently the TM35 Thermal. Swarovski are recognised by UK deer stalkers and hunters as well as thousands of bird spotters for producing the most desirable optics available.
With Swarovski Optik now supporting the 'Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate', (pds1) the PDS1 is set to continue its upward trajectory as a viable alternative to the DSC1 deer stalking course.
‘Accredited’ by both the UK’s two main, land-based awarding bodies; LANTRA and UK Rural Skills, and nationally available through the ‘UK Shooting & Hunting Academy’ huntingacademy the PDS1 has been given added kudos through the support of this widely respected and recognised brand.
Of course, one of the benefits of the PDS1 over the other main UK deer management qualification, the DSC1, is that candidates can complete the theory element of their deer stalker training online via an e-learning platform from the comfort of their own home or office, without having to travel to assessment centres that are sometimes many miles away and require overnight stays.
Recently Laura M, pictured below doing her shooting assessment with ‘Approved Verifier’ Davie Urquhart, became the first woman in Scotland to complete the PDS1 Deer Stalking Certificate.
Laura said of the course:
“If you have an option in the UK of a second course, people can make a choice between the DSC1 and PDS1. The bonus of the PDS1 is that it is far more user friendly.
In Scotland, to do the DSC1 people sometimes have to travel around three hours and stay over in a hotel near the training facility. With the logistics and time off from work, this can be difficult. The difference with the PDS1 is that you can do it online and then visit an ‘Approved Verifier’ near you for the practical element”.
This innovative delivery of this online deer stalking course, at a time and place that suits the candidate, without the need for travel, means that beginners to deer stalking have access to an extremely accessible course, something that ensures the viability and continued growth of deer stalking in the UK, whilst also giving candidates the peace of mind, that they have completed a course that is nationally accredited and delivered by a LANTRA and UK Rural Skills ‘Approved provider’.
E-learning is the future and the clever delivery of this comprehensive deer stalker course fits well with Swarovski Optik’s reputation as a forward thinking, innovative brand.
For those who stalk in Scotland, you may be interested to know, that coming later in the year, the PDS1 is set to include an additional new module aimed specifically at Scottish stalkers.
To read more about the Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate (PDS1) follow this link: deer-stalking-course
If you'd like to apply to become an 'Approved Verifier' for the Proficient Deer Stalker Certificate Level 1, you can do so here: pds1-approved-verifier-course
