A hunting aid

Abstract

A device (40) for dragging and hanging animals. The device comprises a support bar (38) and a flexible support line (39). The support bar defines a first line-through aperture (4) and a second line-through aperture (8) spaced from the first line-through aperture. The flexible support line comprises an intermediate portion (11) that connects a first noose (31) to a second noose (31). The flexible support line slides though the first line-through aperture and the second line-through aperture as the device is reconfigured from a hanging configuration (in which the device is hung by the intermediate portion, the first noose holds a first respective animal-portion adjacent the first line-through aperture, and the second noose holds a second respective animal-portion adjacent the second line-through aperture) to a dragging configuration in which the support bar serves as a handle behind which the first and second noose are engaged with an animal.

Description

[0001] P1969PCAU

[0002] A HUNTING AID

[0003] FIELD

[0004] The invention relates to dragging and hanging animals and associated methods and apparatus.

[0005] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Hunting game animals often involves locating and stalking before harvesting and processing the animal in the field. Hunters regularly spend many days immersed in challenging natural environments in their quest to take down a game animal.

[0007] Game animals range from small to large in size and weight, and individual hunters often target a variety of different game animals.

[0008] The present inventor has recognised that it is desirable to utilise light weight, portable, compact equipment because a hunter is often manually carrying all their equipment in the field, and that having equipment that is able to fulfil multiple uses is of a distinct advantage to a hunter as they are no longer required to carry separate individual devices, which can be unwieldly and cumbersome and make it challenging for a hunter to walk and stalk effectively and with enjoyment.

[0009] Hunting often requires hunters to traverse challenging environments that have uneven terrain, steep ascents or descents, loose rocks, water crossings and snow. Hunters often use one or two hiking sticks which enables them to have more than two points of contact with the ground which imparts the hunter with better balance and increased stability. Numerous devices have been developed to perform the role of a hiking stick. While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, one general disadvantage of hiking sticks in the prior art is that they are usually limited to their single use as a hiking stick.

[0010] Optical devices such as binoculars, monoculars, spotting scopes, infrared night vision devices and thermal devices are used to locate and identify game animals. It is of critical importance that hunters are able to locate and accurately identify P1969PCAU

[0011] 2 target species and distinguish them from non-target species. Hunters often spend hours looking through optical devices attempting to locate and identify game animals, which can be tiring for a hunter and cause muscle fatigue in the upper back, shoulders, arms and hands. Muscle fatigue is unpleasant and also makes it challenging to hold optical device steady, which in turn inhibits the hunter’s ability to clearly see the image produced by the optical device. This ultimately makes it difficult to locate and accurately identify target game animals.

[0012] To minimise muscle fatigue, hunters often attach optical devices to a supporting and stabilising device such as a monopod, bipod or tripod which are available in a range of sizes and arrangements. This assembly allows the hunter to more easily see clear images through their optical device, which in turn allows them to more effectively locate and accurately identify target game animals. Numerous devices have been developed to aid in supporting and stabilising optical devices. While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, these devices have disadvantages. For example, tripods can be cumbersome and need to be positioned on relatively level ground when in use. Many hunting environments are mountainous with steep gradients that are not suitable for tripods. Further, most existing devices are single function featured and have no use to a hunter other than for support and stabilising optical devices.

[0013] Another aspect of hunting is the recording of hunts in the form of digital footage. Many hunters capture the various moments of their hunt with photographs and videos and this footage can be for personal, public or commercial use. Footage of the hunting environment, wild game animals in their habitat, the moment of taking down a game animal and downed trophy game animals are all regularly recorded by hunters. Digital cameras and smartphones are commonly used to capture digital footage and when hunting in groups the role of the photographer is easily shared between hunters to ensure various footage is captured as desired. However, when hunting alone the capturing of the footage requires that the digital camera or smartphone needs to be positioned at a distance from the hunter in order for footage to be recorded of the hunter in action. P1969PCAU

[0014] 3

[0015] Monopod selfie-stick devices have been developed and allow digital cameras and smartphones to be attached. They are used to enable the hunter to take footage of themselves from a greater distance than if holding the smartphone or camera in their hand. Monopod selfie stick devices are often held in the hunter’s outstretched hand or supported by a solid structure such as a tree, fallen log, boulder and rock crevice, and positioned such that they are pointing the camera in the direction of the hunter while recording footage. This assembly allows the hunter to capture footage of themselves on their hunt. While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, these devices have disadvantages. Most existing devices have no other use to a hunter other than for attaching a digital camera or smartphone.

[0016] Taking an accurate shot with a firearm or bow in an attempt to get the animal down as quickly and painlessly as possible is important. This requires the hunter to steadily aim their firearm or bow so that their projectile hits the target region of animal’s body where vital organs will be damaged to ensure the shot is effective. Failing to achieve this results in a very undesirable outcome which is an animal that is injured and may suffer from its injuries for some time before expiring. Making an effective shot requires considerable skill from the hunter due to the challenge of holding their firearm or bow steady when aimed at the target region on the animal’s body.

[0017] Hunters use solid structures in the natural environment as well as purpose-built shooting sticks to rest their firearms on to steady their aim when taking the shot. Natural solid objects used as rests for firearms while hunting include fallen logs, tree stumps, tree branches, fence posts etc. While these natural, solid objects do provide some advantage to the hunter in achieving a steady aim, they are not always present in the natural environment when needed and if they are, they are sometimes located in positions that are not useful to the hunter in making the shot. They can also result in scratches and damaged surfaces on the firearm that comes into contact with them, especially under heavy recoil from discharging a P1969PCAU

[0018] 4 high-powered rifle calibre. Therefore, hunters often carry portable shooting sticks to rest their firearms on to facilitate long range accuracy when taking a shot.

[0019] A number of prior art shooting sticks have been developed including monopods, bipods and tripods which are known by those skilled in the art. While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, these devices have disadvantages. Most existing devices are required to be carried packed in a bag or in the hand and some are noisy to set up which can alert game animals to your presence in their environment. Existing tripod devices are unwieldly and cumbersome and not practical to be carried in the field for extended periods of time. Many existing monopod devices, while less cumbersome than tripod devices, do not have additional features to improve stability and serve little more use than a straight stick with a V in the end would. Further, while some monopods, bipods and tripods may have a secondary use in being compatible with adapters for supporting binoculars and camera equipment, most existing devices have no other use to a hunter other than as a firearm rest.

[0020] Moving the animal once it has been downed is another important step. Many animals are downed in locations that are not suitable for photographing or processing. Creek bottoms, steep hills, crevasses, thick brush etc. are frequently the resting place of an animal that has been downed and the transportation of large game animals to a more suitable location is problematic. Hunters are often alone and it is difficult for a hunter to grip the leg, head, horns or antlers of a downed animal and manually drag it without damage to the animal or injury to the hunter. Even with multiple hunters helping to drag an animal, relocating a large game animal by hand is still challenging because it is difficult for a hunter to maintain grip strength while holding part on the animal directly and applying the significant pulling force required to transport the animal by dragging.

[0021] Numerous devices have been developed to aid in dragging an animal in the field. U.S. Pat. No. 5,145,224 issued to Richard Welk on Sep. 8, 1992 discloses a game dragging device. This device includes a solid cylindrical member with two handles P1969PCAU

[0022] 5 at the outer ends and with a centre yoke affixed. A rope is attached to a game animal and then to centre yoke. The game animal is then able to be dragged by one or two hunters by holding onto the handles on the solid cylindrical member.

[0023] U.S. Pat. No. 6,142,547 issued to Raymond Bowerman on Nov. 7, 2000 discloses a game drag and method which utilises a flexible line attached to a draft handle. The flexible line is attached to the downed animal’s head. The draft handle is then held by the hunter with one or two hands to drag the downed animal to a suitable location for processing.

[0024] A dragging hunting aid comprising a solid handle with one or more flexible members is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,729,666 issued to James Mullins on May 4, 2004. The flexible members can extend from one or more ends of the handle and terminate in a hook for attaching to a portion of an animal to allow the animal to be dragged by one or two persons using the handle.

[0025] While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, these devices have disadvantages. For example, existing devices require the hunter to grasp a handle with their hand and pull the bar in the direction they want to transport the downed game animal. The grip strength of the hunter limits the amount of force that can be applied to move the animal being dragged and the force required to move a heavy animal such as a large deer would surpass the grip strength of many hunters. Further, while grasping the dragging handle, the hunter’s arm extends behind their back which is an unnatural position to apply significant force and can result in injury to the hunter. Moreover, the hunter may choose to face the animal being dragged with their arm holding the drag handle in front of them and walk backwards, but walking backwards while dragging game is unsafe because the hunter is not able to readily see hazards in the environment in the direction of their travel. Furthermore, many of the existing devices are required to be structurally strong by design and are often include many solid metal parts for strength which makes them heavy and have limited ability to collapse down for storage. While some game dragging devices in the prior art have one other use P1969PCAU

[0026] 6 which is for hanging game, most existing devices have no other use to a hunter other than as a game dragging device.

[0027] In hunting, it is important to start processing the animal by dressing it as soon as possible. Dressing removes the internal organs from an animal before the animal can be further processed to prevent spoiling of the meat. Dressing requires a hunter to make controlled incisions with a sharp blade to access and detach the internal organs of the game animal without slicing or piercing the internal organs, which could cause the contents from the digestive tract or fluid from the bladder to foul the meat and make the animal unfit for human consumption. The hind legs of a large animal carcass such as a deer can be tied off to trees or propped open with a branch, to provide the hunter with the desired access to the belly and other anatomy for the dressing process. These methods have inherent limitations and devices have been developed to aid hunters when field dressing.

[0028] U.S. Pat. Application 2023 / 0284638 A1 by inventor Rolland Gibbs published on Sept. 14, 2023 discloses a deer field dressing device for propping apart the hind legs of a deer carcass using a telescopic pole with a fork attached to each end for receiving a deer carcass leg between the prongs of the forks. Other prior art discloses apparatuses that are fixed and adjustable in length that are used to expand the rib cage of an animal so that the carcass may cool faster after field dressing to prevent meat spoilage.

[0029] While the existing devices fulfill their respective objectives and requirements, these devices have disadvantages. For example, existing devices are not securely attached to the carcass which means that the device may move and become dislodged while the hunter is manipulating the carcass during the field dressing process. Moreover, existing devices are single function featured and require a hunter to carry multiple separate devices in the field to aid the different aspects of hunting and processing game animals.

[0030] Processing the carcass by skinning and butchering is often the final aspect of hunting game animals and it is vitally important that the carcass is able to be P1969PCAU

[0031] 7 positioned in a way that allows the hunter to make the necessary incisions to process the animal safely and efficiently. Typically, an animal is suspended from its front legs or back legs with legs spread apart to allow better access to the animal’s anatomy. A device that is well known to hunters is a gambrel device that attaches to the spread legs of an animal and is used to suspend the animal from an existing support such as a tree branch for processing the animal. A gambrel is usually hung by a rope or chain, and a pulley or winch system can be used to hoist heavy animals. A great number of constructions exist for solving the various problems encountered when suspending an animal with a gambrel device.

[0032] Despite the advances made in the art, there remains a number of disadvantages with existing gambrels. Some gambrels are also able to be used as game dragging devices, see for example U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,145,224; 6,729,666; and 2012 / 0319065A1.

[0033] Some gambrels are able to be size adjusted to make a single gambrel useful for processing a wide range of animals, from small animals such as rabbits to large animals such as large deer. U.S. Pat. Application 2018 / 0168173 A1 by inventor Lowell Poland published on June 21 , 2018 discloses a gambrel comprising a support bar with a respective leg holding cable attached generally near each end of the support bar. Each leg holding cable carries a hook that is hooked on to a nearby part of an intermediate portion of the leg holding cable to form the noose to tighten onto an animal leg under the weight of the animal. The support bar is formed of square-profiled aluminum tubing and telescopically adjustable to suit different sized animals. A suspension cable by which the gambrel is suspendable is independent of the leg holding cables so the length of each leg holding cable is maintained as the support bar is adjusted.

[0034] U.S. Pat. No. D953,153 S issued to Terry House 21 May 2022 discloses game hanging device which appears to comprise three pairs of nooses to suit three different animals. It appears that each respective noose is formed of a respective P1969PCAU

[0035] 8 length of line that extends downwardly from a stop and through a support bar before looping back upwardly through the support bar.

[0036] Most gambrels are dedicated to animals of a particular size, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 3,188,130 issued to Stanley Pietrowicz on June 8, 1965 discloses a pocket-sized device to suit small game such as rabbits and which, instead of nooses that tighten under the weight of the animal, entails washers that slide along the outside of loops to tightly engage the loops to limbs of the animal.

[0037] Most gambrels for use with larger game animals rely on multiple metal components for structural strength, which collectively contribute to the gambrel having a relatively heavy weight that makes them cumbersome. The inventor has recognized that typical designs can’t be fully collapsed into a compact assembly convenient for storage and transportation, and that noise made by metal components is a problem. Contact between metal components and the unnatural noise associated therewith can alert surrounding game animals to the hunter’s presence and potentially spook animals out of the area, resulting in a failed hunt. Furthermore, some existing gambrels include relatively special mechanisms and components, which require complex constructions that contribute to the cost of the unit and are not easily repaired or replaced.

[0038] Whilst extensive searching, far beyond what is typical in the art, has revealed gambrels that are suitable to animals of different size and gambrels that employ nooses, such gambrels are not routine. Typical gambrels have a rigid structure mutually connecting impaling hooks that engage the hind legs of the animal above the hock joint.

[0039] The invention in its various aspects aims to provide improvements, or at least alternative, in and for dragging and hanging animals.

[0040] It is not admitted that any of the information in this patent specification is common general knowledge, or that the person skilled in the art could be reasonably P1969PCAU

[0041] 9 expected to ascertain or understand it, regard it as relevant or combine it in any way before the priority date.

[0042] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0043] One aspect of the invention provides a device for dragging and hanging animals; the device comprising a support bar that spaces a first line-through aperture from a second line- through aperture; and a flexible support line comprising an intermediate portion to connect a first noose to a second noose; wherein the flexible support line slides through the first line-through aperture and the second line-through aperture as the device is reconfigured from a hanging configuration in which the device is hung by the intermediate portion, the first noose holds a first respective animal-portion adjacent the first line-through aperture, and the second noose holds a second respective animal-portion adjacent the second line-through aperture; to a dragging configuration in which the support bar serves as a handle behind which at least one of the first noose and second noose is engaged with an animal.

[0044] Preferably, the support bar is telescopically extendible to adjust a spacing of the first line-through aperture from the second line-through aperture. The device preferably comprises a friction lock for releasably interconnecting support bar members at a selected length of the support bar. The support bar may have a threaded portion to which accessories are alternately connectable. P1969PCAU

[0045] 10

[0046] Optionally, the flexible support line comprises a first loop slidably engageable with a nearby part of the intermediate portion to form the first noose. Likewise, the flexible support line may comprise a second loop slidably engageable with a nearby part of the intermediate portion to form the second noose. Preferably, the flexible line comprises a first end looped back on and affixed to itself to form the first loop. Likewise, it is preferred that the flexible line comprises a second end looped back on and affixed to itself to form the second loop. The first support line may be a flat webbing flexible support line.

[0047] Another aspect of the invention provides a use of the device to drag and hang an animal.

[0048] Another aspect of the invention provides the use of the support bar of the device as one or more of a walking stick and monopod.

[0049] Another aspect of the invention provides a method comprising pushing, the support bar of the device, to drag an animal.

[0050] Another aspect of the invention provides a method comprising alternately connecting two or more accessories to the support bar of the device.

[0051] Preferably, the two or more accessories are two or more of an optical device, a camera, a smartphone, a rifle rest mount, and a ground spike.

[0052] Another aspect of the invention provides an adaptable hunting aid device comprising

[0053] (a) a first support bar member having a rigid elongated tubular structure, a first proximal end, a first distal end, and a first line-through aperture;

[0054] (b) a second support bar member having a rigid elongated structure, a second proximal end, a second distal end, and a second line-through aperture; P1969PCAU

[0055] 11

[0056] (c) a support bar comprising the first support bar member telescopically engaging the second support bar member such that the support bar members are slidably disposed and releasably interconnected for fixing the length of the support bar; and

[0057] (d) a flexible support line having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion, engaging the support bar by the intermediate portion adjacent to the first end slidably extending through the first line-through aperture and the first end terminating in a first loop means and the intermediate portion adjacent to the second end slidably extending through the second line- through aperture and terminating in a second loop means, whereby a user can slidably alter the length of the intermediate portion on either side of the support bar and in doing so alter the length between said loops and the support bar.

[0058] Disclosed is an adaptable hunting aid device comprising

[0059] (a) a first support bar member having a substantially rigid elongated tubular structure, a first proximal end, a first distal end, and a first line-through aperture positioned generally near the first distal end;

[0060] (b) a second support bar member having a substantially rigid elongated structure, a second proximal end, a second distal end, and a second line- through aperture positioned generally near the second distal end;

[0061] (c) a support bar comprising the first support bar member telescopically engaging the second support bar member such that the support bar members are slidably disposed and releasably interconnected by a connection means for fixing the length of the support bar; and

[0062] (d) a flexible support line having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion, engaging the support bar by the intermediate portion adjacent to the first end slidably extending through the first line-through aperture and P1969PCAU

[0063] 12 the first end terminating in a first loop means and the intermediate portion adjacent to the second end slidably extending through the second line- through aperture and terminating in a second loop means, whereby a user can slidably alter the length of the intermediate portion on either side of the support bar and in doing so alter the length between said loops and the support bar.

[0064] Optionally, the adaptable hunting aid device further comprises a first support bar member having a plurality of first through apertures and a second support bar member having a plurality of second through apertures, wherein the support bar members are slidably disposed such that the first through apertures align with the second through apertures and receive the connection means that comprises a retainer pin means inserted through aligned holes, for releasably interconnecting and fixing the length of said support bar.

[0065] In certain embodiments, the first and second support bar members are slidably disposed and the support bar further comprises a friction lock means for releasably interconnecting the support bar members at a selected length without requiring alignment of through apertures.

[0066] The support bar may comprise more than two telescopically engaged support bar members and a plurality of connection means for releasably interconnecting said support bar members.

[0067] Optionally, the flexible support line further comprises a first support line member comprising the first end and a first intermediate portion and a second support line member comprising the second end and a second intermediate portion, the first and second intermediate portions adjustably connected by an adjustable line connection means, whereby a user has a plurality of choices for the length of the intermediate portion of the flexible support line.

[0068] The flexible support line may be configured such that the first and second ends may be removed from their respective first and second line-through apertures and P1969PCAU

[0069] 13 later reinserted through said apertures to permit the support line to resume a sliding configuration through the support bar.

[0070] Optionally, the flexible support line may be configured for one or more of enabling loop-through-loop, noose, bar-noose, or other adjustable attachment arrangements for adapting to different game sizes and positions.

[0071] The adaptable hunting aid device may comprise at least one end adapter means affixed to the first distal end and / or the second distal end of the support bar for releasably interconnecting an accessory to the support bar.

[0072] The accessory may include an optical device, a camera, a smartphone, a rifle rest mount, or a ground spike.

[0073] Preferably, the accessory includes an extension comprising an elongated rigid extension member having a first extension end and a second extension end, each having end adapter means for releasably interconnecting the extension to the support bar, to another extension member, or to an accessory.

[0074] Optionally, the end adapter means comprises a threaded aperture, e.g. for rotatably and releasably interconnecting the accessory and the support bar. End adapter means comprises magnetic properties for magnetically and releasably interconnecting the accessory and the support bar is another option.

[0075] Preferably, the support bar is releasably attachable to an archery bow to serve as a stabiliser during bow use, and is configured to be detached and reconfigured for one or more alternative functions including, but not limited to, a hiking stick, monopod, game drag, game processing aid, gambrel, or other field support function.

[0076] Another aspect of the invention provides a method of using an adaptable hunting aid device comprising a telescopically adjustable support bar and a flexible support line with looped ends, the method comprising: P1969PCAU

[0077] 14

[0078] (a) configuring the support bar to a selected length;

[0079] (b) attaching an accessory to the support bar via a releasable end adapter; and

[0080] (c) reconfiguring the device in the field for one or more of the following functions: a hiking stick, monopod for stabilising optical or photographic equipment, shooting rest, game drag, game processing aid, gambrel, or other field support function including use as a shelter support, balance pole, vehicle-assisted dragging, carrying a harvested animal, or emergency splint.

[0081] Optionally, the device is used as a monopod shooting stick by attaching a rifle rest to an end adapter, orienting the support bar generally vertically or at an angle, and stabilising the support bar by:

[0082] (a) placing the lower end of the support bar on the ground and tensioning the flexible support line against the user’s leg or body; or

[0083] (b) placing the lower end of the support bar against the shooter’s thigh or hip while positioning the flexible support line around the user’s shoulder or back to generate stabilising tension, wherein the weight of the rifle is supported by the bar and the tension on the flexible support line stabilises the bar to provide a more stable shooting position than an unsupported offhand shot.

[0084] In an embodiment, the device is configured as a game drag by

[0085] (a) adjusting the length of the support bar to suit the desired drag configuration;

[0086] (b) forming one or more loop or bar-noose attachments using the flexible support line, including a configuration in which a first loop receives the second loop therethrough to form a single centralised noose beneath the support bar; P1969PCAU

[0087] 15

[0088] (c) securing one or more of the attachments to one or more parts of a game animal including, but not limited to, a back leg, front leg, ankle joint, hock joint, Achilles tendon, hock tendon, neck, antlers, horns, lower jaw, or upper jaw; and

[0089] (d) applying force to the support bar to displace the carcass by dragging, either by pulling or by pushing with the support bar positioned against the user’s body, wherein the dragging operation may be performed by one person or by two or more persons gripping the support bar at opposite ends.

[0090] Another option is configured for vehicle-assisted dragging of a game animal by:

[0091] (a) forming one or more loop or bar-noose attachments using the flexible support line, including a configuration in which a first loop receives the second loop therethrough to form a centralised noose beneath the support bar;

[0092] (b) securing the loop or noose attachments to one or more parts of the game animal including, but not limited to, a back leg, front leg, neck, or antlers; and

[0093] (c) connecting the intermediate portion of the flexible support line to a vehicle either directly at a fixed point such as a tow ball, hitch, or cargo rack, or indirectly via a secondary rope, strap, or connection line, such that the animal may be dragged using vehicle motion.

[0094] According to certain embodiments, the device is configured as a gambrel by:

[0095] (a) adjusting the length of the support bar to suit the size or weight distribution of the game animal;

[0096] (b) forming one or more loop or bar-noose attachments using the flexible support line, including a configuration in which a first loop receives the P1969PCAU

[0097] 16 second loop therethrough such that the second loop becomes centrally suspended beneath the support bar;

[0098] (c) securing one or more of the attachments to one or more parts of the game animal including, but not limited to, a back leg, front leg, ankle joint, hock joint, Achilles tendon, hock tendon, neck, antlers, horns, lower jaw, or upper jaw; and

[0099] (d) suspending the support bar from an overhead hoisting mechanism via an intermediate portion of the flexible support line to elevate the carcass or part thereof for field dressing or processing.

[0100] Optionally, the device is configured to prop apart or elevate one or more body parts of a game animal positioned on the ground by:

[0101] (a) adjusting the length of the support bar to suit the position or size of the carcass;

[0102] (b) forming one or more loop or bar-noose attachments using the flexible support line;

[0103] (c) securing at least one of the attachments to a part of the game animal including, but not limited to, a back leg, front leg, ankle joint, hock joint, Achilles tendon, hock tendon, neck, antlers, horns, lower jaw, or upper jaw; and

[0104] (d) maintaining the propped position by either:

[0105] (i) securing the opposite end of the flexible support line to a second part of the animal or to a fixed object in the environment; or

[0106] (ii) wedging or embedding the opposite end of the support bar against or into the ground, including by use of a ground spike accessory. P1969PCAU

[0107] 17

[0108] Preferably, the device is used to carry a harvested game animal by:

[0109] (a) suspending the animal from the support bar by one or more loop or barnoose attachments or by hanging the carcass directly from the support bar; and

[0110] (b) placing the flexible support line over the shoulder, across the back, or around the neck of a user to distribute the load during carry, wherein the device is used by either one person to carry a smaller animal or by two people, each using a respective device positioned across their shoulder and connected to the animal to jointly carry a larger carcass.

[0111] Disclosed is an adaptable hunting aid device comprising a telescopically adjustable support bar and a flexible support line with looped ends. Optionally, the support line slidably extends through apertures near opposing ends of the support bar. At least one end includes an adapter for releasably connecting accessories including an extension, optical device, camera, smartphone, rifle rest, or ground spike. The device is preferably lightweight, compact, and reconfigurable without tools. It may be configured in the field as a hiking stick, monopod, shooting stick, game drag, game processing aid, gambrel, or bow stabiliser. Additional uses may include functioning as a prop for dressing game, a vehicle-assisted drag tool, or a carrying system for one or two users. It may also serve as a shelter pole, balance pole, or emergency splint. Preferred forms of the device enables hunters to reduce carried gear while supporting essential functions throughout transport, spotting, shooting, retrieval, and field dressing of game.

[0112] Preferred embodiments aim to provide a durable, compact, portable, lightweight device which is readily adjustable and adaptable to aid hunters with undertaking the many aspects of hunting, so that hunters do not have to carry multiple separate devices in the field. Preferred embodiments of the present invention overcome disadvantages of the prior art devices by providing an improved readily adjustable and adaptable hunting aid device that can be used as a hiking stick, P1969PCAU

[0113] 18 allows attachment of optical devices, cameras / smartphones and rifle rest mount, as well as being easily reconfigured for safely dragging game, and processing game animals while they are either resting on the ground or in an elevated hanging position.

[0114] Various embodiments relate to multi-purpose hunting aids, including field dressing devices, gambrels, game dragging tools, shooting rests, optical and camera supports, smartphone mounts, and similar apparatus. More particularly, the disclosed is a lightweight, collapsible, and adjustable device for use in hunting, transporting, and processing game animals, which can be configured in the field by a single user as a: hiking stick; monopod to support an optical device, camera, or smartphone; shooting stick; game dragging device; field dressing prop; gambrel; bow stabiliser; animal carrying aid; vehicle-assisted drag interface; shelter or tarp support; balance pole; or emergency splint.

[0115] At least a preferred embodiment of the present invention aims to provide a novel adaptable hunting aid device that is specifically constructed lightweight and collapsible for compact storage and carrying in the field as well as simple, noiseless assembly and disassembly and that can be easily used as a: hiking stick; monopod to support optical devices and cameras; shooting stick; a game drag; game processing device; and a gambrel that is adjustable for game animals that range in size from small to large and may also be reconfigured as a stabiliser for a bow, a monopod shooting rest with tensioned line support, a shelter pole, a field splint, a game carrier, or a vehicle-assisted game drag.

[0116] In a general sense, disclosed is an adaptable hunting aid device comprising:

[0117] (a) a support bar that is substantially rigid and elongated comprising a first support bar member and a second support bar member telescopically inserted one into the other and telescopically extensible with a connection means for fixing the length of the support bar; P1969PCAU

[0118] 19

[0119] (b) a flexible support line having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion, the intermediate portion near the first end of the flexible support line slidably extending through a first line-through aperture in the first support bar member positioned generally near a first distal end of the first support bar member, and the intermediate portion near the second end of the flexible support line slidably extending through a second line-through aperture in the second support bar member generally positioned near a second distal end of the second support bar member, with both the first end and the second end of the flexible support line terminating with a loop means; and

[0120] (c) at least one end adapter means affixed to the distal end of the first support bar member and / or the second support bar member of the support bar, the end adapter means configured for releasably interconnecting the support bar to an accessory, including: a substantially rigid elongated extension; an optical device; a camera; a smartphone; a rifle rest mount; or a ground spike.

[0121] Potentially desirable goals include the provision one or more of:

[0122] (a) a hunting aid device that is simple in design, construction and use, yet is highly adaptable to assist the hunter across multiple stages of the hunting process;

[0123] (b) a hunting aid device that is lightweight, compact, and conveniently carried hands-free in the field without a bag, while remaining readily accessible for rapid deployment;

[0124] (c) a hunting aid device that is durable and reliable, and can be fabricated economically from readily available materials by persons skilled in the trade;

[0125] (d) a hunting aid device with an outer surface optionally coated in user- customised colours or textures to either enhance visibility or enable camouflage in a natural environment; P1969PCAU

[0126] 20

[0127] (e) a hunting aid device that operates quietly, with tool-free and noiseless assembly, adjustment, and reconfiguration in the field;

[0128] (f) a hiking stick configuration to assist the hunter in navigating rough terrain by improving balance and stability;

[0129] (g) a balance pole configuration for enhanced stability when crossing uneven terrain or fallen logs, such as during creek crossings;

[0130] (h) a monopod support configuration for optical devices such as binoculars or monoculars to improve stability during glassing;

[0131] (i) a monopod support configuration for cameras or smartphones, including use as a selfie stick to facilitate stable media capture in the field;

[0132] (j) a monopod shooting stick configuration for supporting a rifle to improve shot stability in a variety of shooting positions;

[0133] (k) a monopod shooting stick configuration incorporating the flexible support line as a stabilising strap to tension the bar and enhance steadiness;

[0134] (l) a monopod shooting stick configuration where the lower end of the bar is braced against the user's thigh or hip, and the flexible support line is tensioned around the shoulder or back to stabilise the bar without ground contact;

[0135] (m)a game dragging configuration wherein the flexible support line is attached to one or more parts of a game carcass (e.g., legs, head, neck, horns, antlers), and the support bar serves as a handle to push or pull the animal during extraction;

[0136] (n) a game dragging configuration that accommodates one-person or two- person dragging;

[0137] (o) a game dragging configuration enabling the user to apply a pushing force using the bar against the body or shoulder rather than pulling by hand;

[0138] (p) a vehicle-assisted dragging configuration wherein the intermediate portion of the flexible support line is connected directly to a vehicle or indirectly via a secondary rope or strap for mechanised game retrieval;

[0139] (q) a game carrying configuration for one person to carry small to mediumsized game by suspending the animal from the bar and placing the line across the user's shoulder or back; P1969PCAU

[0140] 21

[0141] (r) a game carrying configuration for two people to transport larger game, each user carrying one device with the animal suspended between them;

[0142] (s) a field processing configuration for propping apart the hind or front legs of a carcass lying on the ground, adjustable to suit different carcass sizes;

[0143] (t) a field processing configuration that secures the device to a leg or body part in a stable manner to resist dislodgement during manipulation of the carcass;

[0144] (u) a field processing configuration that allows the rib cage of a field-dressed animal to be propped open to aid in rapid cooling;

[0145] (v) a gambrel configuration with an adjustable-length support bar suitable for suspending game of various sizes;

[0146] (w)a gambrel configuration with flexible support line attachments to any of: back legs, front legs, neck, head, horns, or antlers;

[0147] (x) a gambrel configuration that allows attachment to anatomical locations such as the hock tendon, above the hock or knee joint, the Achilles tendon, or the area near the ankle or hoof, to keep the device clear of the skinning area;

[0148] (y) a gambrel configuration suitable for whole or half carcasses, capable of supporting asymmetrical weights while maintaining balance; and

[0149] (z) a shelter support configuration in which the device functions as a pole to support a tent, tarp, or other field shelter using the telescoping bar and flexible line for tensioning and anchoring.

[0150] For a better understanding of the present invention, its operating advantages and the specific objects attained by its uses, reference should be had to the ensuing description and drawings in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention. It is understood that the terminology and phraseology employed herein are for the purpose of descriptions and should not be regarded as limiting. P1969PCAU

[0151] 22

[0152] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0153] A detailed description of preferred embodiments will follow, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying figures of the drawings, in which:

[0154] Figure 1 is a front view of a dragging and hanging device;

[0155] Figure 2 is an exploded view of a support bar of the dragging and hanging device;

[0156] Figure 3 is another exploded view of a support bar of the dragging and hanging device and from another perspective;

[0157] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an end of the support bar;

[0158] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a threaded closure;

[0159] Figure 6 is a perspective view of an extension;

[0160] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an end cap;

[0161] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a threaded connector;

[0162] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a flanged sleeve;

[0163] Figure 10 is a perspective view of a hollow grommet;

[0164] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a ground spike;

[0165] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a noose;

[0166] Figure 13 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device in its dragging configuration;

[0167] Figure 14 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device in its propping configuration; P1969PCAU

[0168] 23

[0169] Figure 15 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device in a hanging configuration;

[0170] Figure 16 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device in another hanging configuration;

[0171] Figure 17 is a perspective view of the support bar in its hiking stick configuration;

[0172] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device being used in an optical device mount configuration;

[0173] Figure 19 is a perspective view of the dragging and hanging device in its shooting stick configuration;

[0174] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a camera mount configuration; and

[0175] Figure 21 is a perspective view of a selfie stick configuration with smartphone.

[0176] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0177] For a more thorough understanding of the nature and specific objects of the present invention, reference should be made to the following accompanying drawings and detailed description in which there are illustrated preferred embodiments of the invention. Referring to the drawings wherein like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several figures.

[0178] Figure 1 illustrates one embodiment of an adaptable hunting aid device 40 and comprised of a support bar 38, a flexible support line 39 and an end adapter 19. Figure 2 and Figure 3 show the support bar 38 in opposing exploded views.

[0179] The support bar 38 is comprised of a first support bar member 1 having a substantially rigid elongated tubular structure, a first proximal end 2 and a first distal end 3. Tubular construction is preferred for improved strength-to-weight ratio although non-tubular variants are possible. A first through aperture 29 is generally P1969PCAU

[0180] 24 positioned near the first proximal end 2 and a first line-through aperture 4 is positioned generally near the first distal end 3. A pair of first hollow grommets 16 are affixed to the first line-through aperture 4 for protection of the bar member and support line 39, and allow the support line 39 to slide through the grommets without damage or distress to the aperture or line. The first hollow grommets 16 are illustrated in Figure 10. A flanged sleeve 18, shown in more detail in Figure 9, is affixed to the first proximal end 2, to reinforce and protect the end. The first distal end 3 comprises an end adapter 19 affixed and a threaded connector 20 releasably interconnected to the end adapter 19.

[0181] The support bar 38 is further comprised of a second support bar member 5 having a substantially rigid elongated tubular structure, a second proximal end 6 and a second distal end 7. A plurality of second through apertures 30 are spaced at generally even increments between the second proximal end 6 and the second distal end 7, and a second line-through aperture 8 is positioned generally near the second distal end 7. A pair of second hollow grommets 17 are affixed inside the second line-through aperture 8 for protection of the bar member and support line 39, and allow the support line 39 to slide through the grommets without damage or distress to the aperture or line. The second distal end 7 comprises an end cap 21 to close and protect the end. The end cap closure is illustrated in Figure 7.

[0182] The first proximal end 1 telescopically engages the second proximal end 6 so that the support bar members are slidably disposed and positioned such that the first through aperture 29 algins with one of the second through apertures 30 and receives a connection means that is an eye-bolt 14 and eye nut 15 that releasably interconnects and fixes the length of support bar 38. The plurality of first apertures 29 provide the user with a plurality of choices of the length of the support bar 38. The support bar 38 is readily adjusted for length by rotatably removing the eye nut 15 manually by hand from the eye-bolt 14, slidably disposing the support bar member to align the first through aperture 29 with a different second through aperture 30, slidably disposing the eye-bolt 14 to the aligned apertures and rotatably affixing the eye nut 15 manually by hand to fix the support bar 38 to a P1969PCAU

[0183] 25 new fixed length. Figures 13, 15 and 18 illustrate the support bar 38 varying in length relative to Figure 1 .

[0184] The eye-bolt 14 - eye nut 15 combination is but one example of a releasable interconnection for releasably connecting mutually adjacent elements of the telescopic support bar to each other. Other connection means are possible, e.g. the support bar might be a spring button tube comprising a releasable interconnection in the form a button depressible against biases to enable the tube elements to axially move with relatively to each other. Indeed modes of length adjustment other than telescopic adjustment are possible.

[0185] The support bar 38 is a two-element bar in which elements 1 , 6 directly engage each other. Indirect engagement is also possible, e.g. the bar might be a three- element bar in which the end elements engage each other via an intermediate element. The line-through apertures 4, 8 pass transversely elongate integrally formed portions of the support bar which portion make up most of the length the support bar. There are other options, e.g. the support bar 38 might comprise eyebolts or other aperture-defining fittings. The eye-bolts or other aperture-defining fittings might be screwed into the ends of the support bar (e.g. an eye-bolt might be screwed into aperture 22 to define a line-through aperture). Removable aperture-defining fittings other than eye-bolts are possible.

[0186] Preferred variants of length adjustability not only avoid the need for a range of gambrels to suit a range of target species but provides flexibility in the field, e.g. if a hunter sets out to target deer and opportunistically harvests a much larger game animal, such as a buffalo the length of the device 40 is readily adjusted to suit. The hunting aid 40 is able to aid the hunter in processing a very large animal by propping the legs apart in the configuration previously described and generally illustrated in Figure 14. Further the device may be used to spread the ribcage, by wedging it in place within the rib cage after the innards have been removed to aid the more rapid cooling of the game animal to prevent meat spoilage. P1969PCAU

[0187] 26

[0188] Preferred variants are length adjustable to enable the centre-to-centre spacing of the through-apertures to increase by a factor of at least 1 .5 or more preferably at least 2, e.g. at least 3. Minimum centre-to-centre spacings in the range of 35 cm to 55 cm (inclusive) are preferred, albeit a spacing as small as 15 cm could be useful for processing rabbit and other small game. A maximum centre-to-centre spacing in the range of 70 cm to 200 cm (inclusive), e.g. a 200 cm spacing, would be suitable to prop apart the legs of a large game animal such as elk. One preferred embodiment has minimum spacing of 40 cm expandable to 74 cm and another embodiment has minimum spacing of 50 cm expandable to 174 cm. The flexible line, e.g. as measured to the outer ends of the loops, is preferably in the range of 30 cm to 50 cm longer than the maximum centre-to-centre spacing of the apertures.

[0189] Whilst length adjustment is preferred, there are other options. By way of example, a long support bar predominantly consisting of a single integral member might be preferred by a big-game hunter.

[0190] For the avoidance of doubt, ‘integrally formed’ and similar wording is used herein in its conventional sense to refer to a single continuous body of material whereby two bodies may be integrated by welding but not be a typical mechanical fastener.

[0191] The flexible support line 39 has a first end 9 and a second end 10 and an intermediate portion 11. The support line 39 engages the support bar 38 by the intermediate portion 11 adjacent to the first end 9 slidably extending through the first hollow grommets 16 with the first end terminating in a loop 12 and by the intermediate portion 11 adjacent to the second end 10 slidably extending through the second hollow grommets 17 with the second end terminating in a loop 13. The loops 12 and 13 are formed by affixing the support line 39 to itself some distance from the ends. The ability for the flexible support line 39 to slide through the support bar 38 allows the user to alter the length of the intermediate portion 11 either side of the support bar 38 and in doing so alter the length between the loops P1969PCAU

[0192] 27

[0193] 12 and 13 and the support bar 38 thus allows the hunting aid device 40 to be readily adjusted and adapted.

[0194] The end adapter 19 affixed to the first distal end 3 comprises a threaded aperture 22 that rotatably releasably interconnects the support bar 38 to a threaded connector 20. The threaded aperture 22 is illustrated in more detail in Figure 4 and the threaded connector 20 is illustrated in more detail in Figure 8. The threaded aperture 22 provides significant adaptability and allows a range of accessories to be readily releasably affixed manually by hand to the support bar 38 by means of threaded connector 20 or by other threaded connector means.

[0195] When not in use, the end adapter 19 can be closed and protected by affixing a threaded closure 23 as illustrated in Figure 5. The threaded closure 23 is rotatably releasably affixed manually by hand and provides protection to the end adapter 19 and threaded closure 23 when not in use attached to an accessory. Embodiments that illustrate the use of the end adapter 19 interconnected with accessories mounted to the support bar 38 are illustrated in Figures 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21 and details of these discussed at a later stage in the description.

[0196] One object of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to provide hunters with a durable, affordable hunting aid device that is simple to use and has aesthetic and tactile features making it very suited to the diversity of natural environments. As such, the present invention preferably allows for a range of common, inexpensive materials and components to be readily attained and assembled in order to achieve this, without requiring complex, specific manufacturing or assembly skills. This maximises manufacture efficiency and ensures cost of materials and labour for manufacture remains low.

[0197] By appropriately selecting components a preferred embodiment of the present invention allows for ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight embodiments through to substantially robust embodiments. A description of the materials and components of the preferred embodiment that is suitable for use with the various accessories, P1969PCAU

[0198] 28 and for aiding a hunter with dragging and processing a wide range of game animals, from small animals to larger animals is described hereinafter.

[0199] A preferred embodiment is illustrated in Figure 15. The first support bar member 1 is made from durable 32 mm diameter rigid PVC tube with a medium wall thickness approximately 400 mm in length and has a rigid nylon flanged sleeve 18 affixed to the first proximal end 2. The second support bar member is 25 mm diameter rigid PVC tube with a medium wall thickness approximately 400 mm in length. The first through line apertures 4 and 8 are machine drilled to be 9 mm diameter and are fitted with nylon grommets 16 and 17 respectively. The first and second through apertures are machine drilled to be 6 mm diameter and receive a 40 mm M6 eye-bolt 14 and eye nut 15. The first distal end 3 and second distal end 7 have affixed a rigid nylon end adapter 19 with a stainless steel nut that provides a threaded aperture 22 to interconnect the support bar 38 to accessories. The threaded aperture 22 is readily connected to various threaded connectors 20 such as common thread adapters that are compatible with a large range of accessories. When accessories are not in use, each end adapter 19 in the preferred embodiment is fitted with a threaded end closure 23 made from threaded stainless steel and solid rubber.

[0200] The support line 39 in the preferred embodiment is composed of heavy flat polyester webbing 15 mm wide with a breaking strain of greater than 400 kg. Heavy flat webbing is preferred as it doesn’t easily knot on itself and is a relatively relaxed line that is comfortably and easily adapted to form the different configurations necessary for the adaptable hunting aid 40. The first end loop 12 is formed by stitching the first line end 9 to the intermediate portion 11 . The second loop 13 is formed in the same way respectively.

[0201] There are other ways in which the loops might be formed, e.g. a metal ring or carabiner could be used.

[0202] Both loops 12 and 13 have an internal diameter slightly greater than that of the support bar members 1 and 5 so they are able to be configured into bar-nooses 31 P1969PCAU

[0203] 29 shown in Figure 16. Both loops 12 and 13 are formed such that they are wider than the internal diameter of grommets 16 and 17 through which the intermediate portion 11 is slidably disposed. This prevents the loops 12 and 13 from being able to be pulled through and disengaged from the support bar 38, even if significant force is applied.

[0204] The outer surface of the support bar 38 is coated in vinyl wrap with a colour pattern and texture as required. The colour pattern may include camouflage in a non-reflective matte finish that matches the hunting environment to help the hunter stay hidden when using the hunting aid, or a safety colour such as blaze orange to help the hunter be readily visible to other hunters. Other colours are easily customised. The surface of the vinyl wrap is textured to improve the grip on the support bar 38 when in use in wet conditions and as a game drag. The preferred embodiment of the adaptable hunting aid 40 described has a total mass less than 350 grams and has a breaking point exceeding 200 kg when used as a game drag or gambrel. The materials selected in the preferred embodiment provide long- lasting use in a natural environment, with the parts being non-corrosive, water resistant, non-staining and easily disassembled and cleaned of mud, hair and blood that may soil the adaptable hunting aid 40 during its use.

[0205] Examples of other materials and components that could be used to manufacture and be assembled to form the present invention are described hereinafter. The support bar members 1 and 5, and the extension member 24 may be constructed from carbon fibre or aluminium. The support line 39 could be stainless steel cable or paracord and the end loops 12 and 13 could be formed from a crimp, swaged in the case of stainless steel cable, or knotted, spliced or whipped in the case of cord. The eye-bolt 14 and eye nut 15 connector means could be replaced with a pin such as a quick release pin, a wire lock pin, a spring button pin or a means more like a friction lock connector. The end cap adapter 19 could be disposed on none, one or two of none of the ends of the support bar 38 depending on the needs of the hunter. The end cap adapter 19 could have magnetic properties and allow accessories to be attached using strong magnetic attraction. P1969PCAU

[0206] 30

[0207] Figure 17 illustrates an embodiment of the adaptable hunting aid device 40 support bar 38 in a hiking stick configuration. Note that the support line has been omitted from this diagram as the focus is the relationships between the support bar 38 and attachments. A length in the range of 110 cm to 140 cm (inclusive) is convenient for use as a walking stick. Shorter variants of the device may be extended with aid of an extension. The illustrated walking stick configuration comprises the support bar 38 interconnected to an extension 41. The extension 41 is shown in Figure 6 and comprises an elongated substantially rigid tubular member 24 that has a first extension end 25 and a second extension end 26, each with the end adapter 19 for releasably interconnecting the extension 41 to the support bar 38, to another extension member 41 or to an accessory. In the case of the walking stick configuration in Figure 17, the threaded connector 20 is used to rotatably releasably interconnect the end adapters 19 of the support bar 38 and the first extension end 25. The second extension end 26 end adaptor is rotatably releasably interconnected to a ground spike 27. The walking stick configuration is adjustable in length by means of adjusting the length of the support bar 38. This adjustability is an advantage as user is able to adjust the length to suit their needs based on their height and also because a single hunter may require a shorter hiking stick when hiking up a steep gradient slope and a longer hiking stick when hiking down a steep gradient slope. Optionally, the device may be equipped with a contoured grip and / or compliant (e.g. foam-rubber) grip for use when hiking. A wrist lanyard may be attached, e.g. to an end of the support bar, to allow the device to hang off the wrist to free up the user’s hands.

[0208] Optionally, the device may be used as a carrying pole by which the weight of a load (e.g. carcass) can be shared between two users. In one implementation, the front legs of the carcass are tied together and the rear legs of the carcass tied together and the device (e.g. in the long configuration of Figure 17) threaded through (a) the space defined by the body, two front legs and the front tie, and (b) the space defined by the body, two rear legs and the rear ties, and leaving a forward projection for one user to lift and a rear projection for the other user to lift. P1969PCAU

[0209] 31

[0210] The end loop positioned near the top of the walking stick configuration is easily adapted to form a noose 28 as shown in Figure 12, and the noose is readily looped around the wrist of the user to prevent the walking stick falling to the ground while in use, should the user lose grip of the support bar 38. It is preferable that the remaining intermediate line is wrapped under tension around the body of the support bar 38 and secured by hooking it over the eye-bolt 14 or eye nut 15 as generally shown in Figure 14.

[0211] Figure 18 features the adaptable hunting aid 40 with an accessory for mounting an optical device attached to the end adapter 19. In this example, the optical device is a binocular 33 device also known as field glasses. The binoculars 33 are mounted to the end adapter 19 of the support bar 38 by a threaded adapter 20 and ball- head adapter 32. The support line 39 intermediate portion 11 is wrapped around the support bar 38 to prevent the support line becoming a hindrance to the hunter while glassing using the binoculars 33. This configuration has the weight of the binoculars 33 supported by the support bar 38 in the vertical orientation. The base of the support bar 38 can rest on the ground or natural object or the support bar 38 may simply be held by the hunter in an elevated position in front of the torso which is a more comfortable position for the arms than holding the binoculars 33 up to the eyes directly with the hands. The hunter is able to use the binoculars 33 for extended hours in the field without fatigue, which aids the hunter in effectively locating and identifying game. The support bar 38 length is readily adjusted enabling the hunter adjust the height of the binoculars should they be kneeling or sitting etc. This configuration is also suitable for the attachment of other optical devices including: monocular, night vision and thermal devices.

[0212] Figure 19 illustrates the adaptable hunting aid 40 in a configuration that makes it a monopod shooting stick. In this configuration, the support bar 38 is in the vertical orientation with a rifle mount 34 accessory attached by means of the end adapter 19 and threaded adapter 20. The hunter is able to dispose the firearm including a rifle, shotgun or pistol, in the V yoke rifle rest mount 34 to support the weight of the firearm to help the hunter aim accurately. A particular advantage of the adaptable P1969PCAU

[0213] 32 hunting aid 40 in the shooting stick configuration is that the support line 39 intermediate portion 11 is used to provide additional stability to the monopod shooting stick in the vertical position. An example of how this is achieved is by the hunter stepping their front leg into the loop formed between the intermediate portion 11 and the support bar 38 and kneeling down in a forward lunge position with the back knee resting on the ground. The intermediate portion 11 contacts the back of the front leg behind the knee of the hunter and by the hunter applying a forward force on the vertically orientated support bar 38, the intermediate portion 11 tensions against the back of the leg of the hunter, which minimises the movement of the vertically orientated support bar 38. The hunter is easily able to maintain this position with the firearm in the rifle rest, and it has been proven to provide sufficient stability to maintain aim on distant targets in the field.

[0214] The support bar 38 length is readily adjusted to change the height of the rifle rest to meet the needs of the hunter making the support bar 38 suitable for use in the sitting and kneeling positions, and also the standing position if the extension 41 is attached, or if resting the base on a rock, post or holding it firmly against the side of a tree etc. Resting the firearm in the rifle rest mount minimises damage to firearms as resting a firearm on natural surfaces that are often rough and abrasive cause scratches and damage to the firearm due to the significant recoil energy when discharged.

[0215] Figure 20 illustrates the adaptable hunting aid device 40 with a camera mount accessory interconnected to the end adapter 19 using threaded adapter 20 and ball-head adapter 32. This configuration is a cutaway view showing only the features of the end of the support bar 1 . This configuration provides the same advantages to the hunter as the binocular mount assembly in Figure 18 already discussed. In this example, however, a camera 35 is supported and a hunter is able to capture clear footage of the hunting environment and game animals without fatigue with the aid and support of the hunting aid device 40. P1969PCAU

[0216] 33

[0217] The height of extended support bar (monopod) when configured as a rifle rest, binocular support or camera support is preferably in the range of 40 cm to 200 cm. The length may be adjusted to suit different user postures such as sitting, kneeling or standing and / or shooting on a downward / upward slope, etc, and / or if resting it on an object in the environment like a fallen log or large boulder, etc.

[0218] Figure 21 illustrates a cutaway view of the adaptable hunting aid device with a smartphone mount 36 accessory interconnected to the end adapter 19 using threaded adapter 20 and ball head adapter 32. This configuration provides an example of how a hunter can capture footage of themselves in the field using the adaptable hunting aid 40. The hunter holds one end of support bar 38 with an outstretched arm, and on the opposing end with the end adapter 19 is the smartphone 35 directed towards the hunter to record footage of the hunter. This configuration provides the hunter the ability to easily capture footage of themselves when hunting alone, including photos of themselves with a downed trophy animal for example.

[0219] The configurations involving accessories illustrated in the Figures 17, 18, 19, 20 and 21 are readily manipulated manually by hand and can be assembled, adjusted and disassembled with ease in the field to meet the needs of the hunter. There are a wide range of accessories in the prior art that are compatible with the end adapter 19. The adaptable hunting aid 40, with the support bar 38, support line 29 and the end adapter means 19 attached to the end of the support bar 38 or extension 41 , allows interconnection of these adapters and accessories in various configurations with the adaptable hunting aid 40.

[0220] An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide an adaptable hunting aid 40 that is able to aid hunters in safely dragging and transporting downed animals of different sizes. Figure 13 illustrates details of a game drag configuration of the adaptable hunting aid 40. The support bar 38 has been telescopically adjusted to the shortest length, such that the first support bar member 1 and second support bar member 2 have a substantial elongated length P1969PCAU

[0221] 34 that is overlapping which reinforces the strength of the bar to prevent it flexing when significant force is applied. The support line 39 has been adapted such that the first end 9 and second end 10 have been slidably extended away from the support bar 38 such that the remaining intermediate portion 11 on the opposing side of the support bar is tensioned parallel to the side of the support bar 38. Each suspension line end 9 and 10 is adapted to form a noose 28 by slidably extending a nearby part of the intermediate portion 11 through the end loop 12 or 13 at the respective ends of the suspension line 39. Loops 12 and 13 may be used directly, or configured into cinching nooses 28 or bar-wrapped nooses 31 , depending on the required attachment.

[0222] An enlarged illustration of the noose 28 is displayed in Figure 12. The noose 28 is able to be readily adapted to increase the noose 28 diameter by sliding the end loop 12 or 13 along the intermediate portion 11 generally towards the support bar 38. Alternatively, the noose 28 diameter is able to be decreased by sliding the end loop 12 or 13 along the intermediate portion 11 generally away from the support bar 38. This adjustability allows for a leg of a carcass to be extended through and disposed within the noose 28 and then cinched tight by pulling the intermediate line 11 with tension to reduce the diameter of the noose 28.

[0223] Figure 12 illustrates a noose 28 formed by slidably extending a nearby part, of the intermediate portion 11 and below the support bar 38, through an end loop 12 or 13. Another method of forming a noose entails slidably extending a nearby part, of the intermediate portion 11 and above the support bar 38, through an end loop 12 or 13. This other method holds the support bar down, against the noosed animalportions, more positively.

[0224] Preferred embodiments are also adapted to hang animals without using the nooses. Optionally, each end of the flexible line is threaded through a respective portion of the animal, then turned upwardly to support the animal from one or more hanging points. By way of example, the loop 12 might be threaded through a cut between the tendon and hock joint on one side of the animal and the loop 13 might P1969PCAU

[0225] 35 be threaded through a cut between the tendon and hock joint on the other side of the animal. The loops might then be attached to respective hanging points or to the one hanging point. Alternatively, one loop might be passed through the other loop and then attached to a hanging point.

[0226] By attaching the two back legs to the nooses 28 an animal is able to be securely attached such that it can be transported by dragging using the adaptable hunting aid 40. In the configuration illustrated in figure 13, force is applied by a hunter in the direction of transport 42 to the support bar 38, which acts as a drag handle, and the force is transferred by tension along the support line 39, which acts as a drag line, to the nooses 28 cinched to the legs of the animal causing the nooses 28 to tighten and grip the legs and the carcass to displace in the direction of the force applied 42. The nooses 28 are able to be cinched to different parts of the body including the legs, neck, jaw, horns or antlers.

[0227] The drag handle is able to be pulled by one person and is of sufficient size to be able to be grasped comfortably with one or two hands. Alternatively, the drag handle is able to be pulled by two people, the person standing on the left grasping the handle with their right hand and the person on the right grasping the handle with their left hand relative to the direction of travel. Both of these options aid with transporting heavy game animals by dragging, however, they are limited by the grip strength of the person or persons pulling on the drag handle.

[0228] The support bar preferably has a rounded trailing portion having a transverse dimension (e.g. transverse to each of the length of the support bar and the direction of dragging-force application) such as an outer diameter in the range of 15 mm to 50 mm to be comfortably gripped. 15 mm is considered a practical minimum to be comfortable against the figures whilst dragging a heavy carcass. At least 20 mm, e.g. at least 26 mm is preferred. The rounded trailing portion might be a contoured grip and / or compliant (e.g. foam-rubber) grip. In this example, it is the trailing half-cylindrical portion of the circular-profiled tube 1 . P1969PCAU

[0229] 36

[0230] Advantageously the user may push on the support bar, from behind the support bar, to drag the animal. Preferred variants of the adaptable hunting aid 40 game drag configuration can be pushed by a single person. To do so, the person may move themselves into the space between the support bar 38 drag handle and the animal being dragged, and while facing the direction of travel the support bar is positioned on the waist region of the hunter such that when the person moves in the direction of travel 42, the force is applied by the waist region pushing on the drag handle. In many instances, this enables the person to apply much more force than they could by pulling as they are not limited by their grip strength. Furthermore, it’s a safer option and less likely to result in injury as the person is pushing with a more natural posture and walking in the forwards direction and can readily see obstacles and hazards in their path. They do not require their arm outstretched behind them applying a significant pulling force, which is an unnatural position that often results in injury. Further it does not require the hunter to walk backwards in the pulling position, which does not allow them to see hazards in their path.

[0231] This flexibility is particularly advantageous in the context of a long walk out, e.g. after a period of pulling on the handle a user may switch to pushing when their hands tire and then switch back again when the hands are rested.

[0232] In another embodiment, the device is configured for vehicle-assisted dragging of game. The flexible support line is arranged with one or more loop or noose attachments to secure the game animal, including a configuration in which one loop passes through the other to form a centralised attachment beneath the support bar. The intermediate portion of the flexible support line may then be connected either directly to a fixed point on a vehicle — such as a tow ball, hitch receiver, or cargo rack — or indirectly via a secondary rope, strap, or connection line. This configuration enables the device to be used for mechanised retrieval of game animals over longer distances or challenging terrain. P1969PCAU

[0233] 37

[0234] In another dragging configuration of the device, one loop is passed through the other, then formed into a noose (as in Figure 12) to engage with an animal-portion. This configuration leads to the animal trailing further behind the handle 38. Optionally, a flexible extension line (or other extender) might be used to connect the animal to the device to trail yet further behind. The flexible extension line might be substantially identical to the flexible support line. Extending the distance by which an animal trails may be desirable to suit user preference and / or to suit the terrain, e.g. to suit a creek crossing.

[0235] The adaptable hunting aid 40 has further advantages as a game drag for transporting multiple medium sized game at once. For example, if a hunter has downed two goats, they can attach one noose 28 to the one goat and the other noose 28 to a second goat, and the two goats can be easily transported by dragging at the same time.

[0236] Carrying multiple small animals is a further use and advantage of the adaptable hunting aid 40. Adapting the support line 39 such that the intermediate region 11 is extended away from the support bar 38 as shown in Figure 19 allows the support bar 38 to be carried suspended horizontally by resting the intermediate portion 11 on the shoulder. Multiple small game animals such a rabbits, are able to be suspended from the adaptable hunting aid 40 by adapting the first line end 9 and second line end 10 to form nooses 28 and cinching these nooses 28 around a body part of the rabbits such as the head or leg. Alternatively, using the common method known in the art of making an incision between the hock tendon and bone of one back leg and slidably disposing the foot and lower leg of the other back leg of the animal through the aperture formed by the incision, with the generally central portion of the support bar 38 being disposed within the aperture that forms, multiple rabbits are able to be suspended by the support bar 38 and transported for processing.

[0237] In another embodiment, two devices are used for two-person game transport. Each user carries a respective adaptable hunting aid 40 with the intermediate P1969PCAU

[0238] 38 portion of its flexible support line 11 draped over or across their shoulder, neck, or back. The animal is suspended between the two users either directly from the support bar 38 or via loop or noose 28 attachments secured to parts of the animal such as the legs, neck, or antlers. The weight of the animal is thus distributed across both users, enabling efficient team transport of heavier game, such as large deer, pigs, or goats, from the field. This configuration allows hands-free walking while maintaining a stable and balanced load between users.

[0239] An object of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to provide hunters with a hunting aid device 40 that is suitable for use in processing game animals that range in size, for example, from a small rabbit to large deer. A further object is for the hunting aid device 40 to aid in the processing of a game animal carcass that is positioned on the ground or in a suspended position.

[0240] Figure 14 illustrates details of the adaptable hunting aid 40 in a propping configuration that aids the field dressing and processing of an animal located on the ground. Each suspension line end 9 and 10 is adapted to form a noose 28 as previously described. The noose 28 adjustability allows for a leg of the carcass to be extended through and disposed within the noose 28 and then cinched tight by pulling the intermediate line 11 with tension to reduce the diameter of the noose 28. This process is completed at both ends 9 and 10 of the suspension line 39. The intermediate line 11 is then wrapped multiple times with tension around the body of the support bar 38 and hooked over the eye-bolt 14 or eye nut 15 to maintain tension and prevent the intermediate portion 11 unwrapping.

[0241] The configuration described advantageously props the legs of a carcass apart to aid the hunter by providing the hunter with two free hands to work with and easy access to field dress, skin and butcher the carcass. The advantages of this configuration are that the legs that are spread apart are secured to the support bar 38, allowing the hunter easy access to the belly region of the animal without having to hold the legs apart manually. Furthermore, the legs are not able to become dislodged from the support bar 38 and are not able to move or fall, which P1969PCAU

[0242] 39 may cause injury to a hunter who is likely working with a razor-sharp knife during processing. Further, having the leg securely propped prevents meat being fouled with dirt, grass, leaves and the like should it become dislodged from the propping device and fall to the ground as is what happens with some devices in the prior art.

[0243] The adaptable hunting aid 40 in the game processing device configuration is able to be adjusted in length to suit small and large animals by adjusting the length of the support bar 38. It is further able to be adapted by cinching the nooses 28 to various combinations of body parts including; front legs, back legs, front and back leg, leg and neck, leg and antler, leg and jaw etc. as well as various combinations with the natural environment such as leg and small tree stump for example. These different combinations allow the hunter to readily change the position of the legs to provide access to the various body parts during processing.

[0244] An object of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to provide an adjustable hunting aid 40 that can be configured as a gambrel for suspending game animals above the ground for processing. A further, more specific object is to provide a gambrel type device that is adjustable and suitable for different sized game animals and adaptable to allow attachment to different body parts of game animals such that they can be suspended above the ground in different ways.

[0245] Figure 15 illustrates a gambrel configuration of the adjustable hunting aid 40 with nooses 28 formed by adapting the first end 9 and the second end 10 of the line 39, as previous detailed. The intermediate portion 11 has an intermediate portion noose 37 generally centrally located along the intermediate portion. A lark’s head knot is used to form the intermediate portion noose 37 in the intermediate portion 11 as illustrated, and the noose 37 serves as an attachment point for a hoist system.

[0246] In this example line 39 consists of a continuous length of webbing looped back onto and attached to itself to define the end loops. There are other options.

[0247] Flexible line materials other than webbing are possible. Other points of attachment are possible, e.g. instead of the using a lark’s head knot along a uniform P1969PCAU

[0248] 40 continuous length of material, the flexible line may comprise flexible line material interrupted by a rigid fitting, such as a rigid ring, to serve as the attachment point that engages a hoist hook (or other hanging point) from which the device, and animal attached thereto, is suspending for processing the animal.

[0249] Figure 16 illustrates a hanging configuration of the adjustable hunting aid 40 with an intermediate portion noose 37, but with the support line ends 9 and 10 positioned differently. This configuration is assembled by firstly removing the eye nut 15 from the eye-bolt 14 and sliding the eye-bolt 14 from the support bar 38. The support bar members 1 and 5 are then telescopically outwardly extended until the are no longer engaged. The support line 39 is then adapted such that the first proximal end 2 is slidably disposed through the end loop 12, the second proximal end 6 is slidably disposed through the end loop 13, the second proximal end 6 is then telescopically engaged back in the first proximal end 2 and the eye-bolt 14 slid into position within aligned apertures 29 and 30 and the eye nut 15 rotatably affixed. This configuration results in a bar-noose 31 formed at each end of the support bar as illustrated in Figure 16. Each bar-noose 31 is able to increase or decrease in diameter by sliding the intermediate portion 11 through the line- through aperture 4 or 8.

[0250] The gambrel configurations illustrated in Figures 15 and 16 are both able to be attained from the same embodiment of the adaptable hunting aid 40 wherein the end loops 12 and 13 are of sufficient diameter to be able to receive the support bar members 1 and 5 respectively.

[0251] In use, the nooses 28 or 31 receive the back legs of the animal carcass and are cinched tightly around the legs by pulling on the intermediate line 11 from the side of the support bar 38 opposing the loops 31 and 28. A hoist, such as a pulley system, is then attached to an overhead support, such as a strong tree branch, and to the intermediate portion noose 37 and used to hoist the animal so that is suspended above the ground. The tension applied by the hoist is transmitted through the intermediate portion 11 to maintain a tight cinch in the nooses 28 or 31 P1969PCAU

[0252] 41 around the legs of the animal, so that it is unable to slip and fall to the ground while suspended.

[0253] By virtue of the line 39 sliding through the line-through apertures 4, 8 the weight of the suspended animal not only cause the nooses 28, 31 to tighten their grip of the gripped leg portions but also urges the support bar downwardly toward the gripped leg portions. In this way, the gripped leg portions are securely located with respect to the support bar (as opposed to, for example, dangling at the ends of respective tethers). The secure hold of the animals reduces the risk of personal injury and / or fouling the carcass (but cutting into an organ) whilst processing the carcass with a razor-sharp knife.

[0254] The two hanging configurations of Figures 15 and 16 are both length adjustable by altering the length of the support bar 38 by aligning different through apertures 29 and 30 and fixing the length with eye-bolt 14 and nut 15. This length adjustment makes the adjustable hunting aid 40 suitable for use as a gambrel to suspend small to large sized game, whereby the legs are spread to the appropriate width for the size of the game. Further, the nooses 28 and 31 are adjustable and cinch down to the size of the animal’s leg which makes them also suitable for attaching legs of various size animals to the gambrel configuration.

[0255] Optionally, the animal may be hung by its front legs or its back legs or by non-leg portions, e.g. hung from the neck, head or, antlers or horns. Hanging the animal from a pair of rigid head-protrusions (such as the antlers or horns and as opposed to ears) provides access to remove a complete skin unimpeded by a noose gripping a portion of that skin. Preferred variants of this method entail variants of the device described herein. Other variants may entail other hardware such as a pair of antler-gripping nooses each at the end of respective tether fixed to respective end of a support bar.

[0256] The adaptable hunting aid 40, is able to attach an animal carcass using the nooses 28 or 31 in a multitude of ways without requiring any additional components. The back leg tendon apertures are able to be connected to the P1969PCAU

[0257] 42 gambrel configuration by extending the end loop 12 through the tendon aperture above the hock of one back leg and end loop 13 through tendon aperture above the hock of the other back leg, and then assembled to form bar-nooses 31 as illustrated in Figure 16. Alternatively, incisions can be made on the back of the legs above the ankles to form apertures between the bone and Achilles tendon and these can also be used to attach the back legs to the nooses 31 using the same process as for the hock tendons.

[0258] Alternatively, nooses 28 are also able to be attached to the hock or ankle tendon apertures of the back legs. This is achieved by firstly extending the loop 12 through the tendon aperture of one back leg such that a portion of the intermediate line 11 is slidably extended through the tendon aperture, adapting the line end 9, intermediate portion 11 and loop 12 to form the noose 28, extending the foot through the opening in noose 28, disposing the noose 28 on the leg or ankle near the tendon aperture and cinching the noose 28 tight by tensioning intermediate portion 11 . This process is then repeated with loop 13 on the other back leg.

[0259] Furthermore, the nooses 31 and 28 are also able to attach to the front leg tendons in the same way as described for the back legs.

[0260] Nooses 28 and 31 are further able to be used to attach an animal by inserting the foot through the nooses 28 or 31 and cinching them to the back legs above the knee, back legs above the ankle, front legs above the knee, or front legs above the ankle. Even further, animals can be attached to the nooses 28 or 31 by inserting horns, antlers, head or neck through the nooses 28 or 31 and cinching them.

[0261] Various noose or loop configurations may be used with the flexible support line, including but not limited to loop-through-loop, sliding loop, bar-wrapped noose, or tensioned hitch arrangements. The specific looping technique may vary depending on the user's preference, game size, or required tension.

[0262] Another advantage of the adaptable hunting aid 40 hanging configurations as illustrated in Figures 15 and 16 is that the carcass remains securely attached to P1969PCAU

[0263] 43 the nooses 28 or 31 even if the amount on weight on each noose 28 or 31 is not balanced. Many of the existing gambrels that rely on hook means allow the gambrel to tip and the carcass to unhook and fall to the ground when the load on each end becomes progressively unbalanced. Preferred embodiments of the present invention do not allow a carcass correctly secured to nooses 28 or 31 to fall to the ground even if the noose 28 or 31 on one side of the gambrel configuration has a very heavy load and the corresponding noose 28 or 31 on the opposite side has zero load.

[0264] An object of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is to provide a hunting aid device 40 that is able to be carried by a user hands-free and rapidly taken from the carrying position and be deployed for use in aiding the hunter. While many devices in the prior art are able to be carried hands-free in a bag or backpack, the amount of time it takes for them to be retrieve and deploy for use can often result in missed opportunities when locating and taking a shot at game.

[0265] The flexible support line 39 is able to be neatly collapsed by wrapping with some tension the intermediate portion 11 around the outside of the support bar 38 along the longitudinal axis and retaining it in this position by disposing the intermediate portion 11 over the eye of the eye-bolt 14 or eye nut 15 as illustrated in Figure 14 and Figure 18 such that the tension on the intermediate portion 11 causes friction against the solid eye-bolt 14 that prevents the support line unwrapping. The intermediate portion 11 can be rapidly wrapped and unwrapped by the user manually by hand based on their needs in the field. This wrapped arrangement of the flexible support line 39 around the support bar 38 allows for compact collapsing of the intermediate portion 11 , which helps prevent the support line becoming tangled with the user or caught on parts of the natural environment such as shrubbery, fallen branches and the like while being carried or in use.

[0266] The hunting aid device 40 provides the advantage of being able to be carried hands-free with the intermediate portion 11 wrapped around the support bar 38 by releasably affixing the hunting aid device 40 eye-bolt 14 or eye nut 15 to a belt clip P1969PCAU

[0267] 44 means or similar. Alternatively, one of the support line 39 loops 13 or 14 could be releasably affixed to a belt clip means or similar. Alternatively, the hunting aid device 40 is able to be disposed by sliding it downwards into an appropriately dimensioned flexible loop or elongated sheath suspended from the waist of the user and retained by means of downward gravitational force without use of the eye-bolt 14, eye nut 15 or end loops 13 and 14 to affix the device 40 to the user. Alternatively, the support line 39 could have the intermediate portion 11 extended away from the support bar 38 as illustrated in Figure 19 and used as a shoulder strap to allow the user to carry the hunting aid device 40 by slinging the support line 39 over their shoulder. The hunting aid device 40 is able to be readily and rapidly taken from and returned to the hands-free carrying positions described.

[0268] Furthermore, the accessory adapters such as, but not limited to, the threaded adapter 20, the ball-head mount 32 and end adapter closure 23 are compact in size and can be carried in the user’s clothing pocket or belt pack and the like in the field, should the user need to retrieve or stow them rapidly.

[0269] Alternatively, the adaptable hunting aid 40, extension 41 and associated accessories may further be carried releasably affixed to the outside or disposed and enclosed inside a hiking backpack or similar device. Should the need arise, the lightweight, compact, collapsible nature of the adaptable hunting aid 40, extension 41 and associated accessories enables them to be easily disposed inside a regular backpack, consume minimal storage space and contribute a relatively small amount to the total mass of the pack. The adaptable hunting aid 40 comprises mostly smooth surfaces without sharp pointed protrusions and, therefore, it is unlikely to damage or cause undue wear on the backpack or items inside the backpack which is known to be a significant disadvantage of many hunting aids in the prior art that have protrusions such as rigid pointed hooks.

[0270] Furthermore, the adaptable hunting aid 40 is unlikely to cause injury or discomfort to the user should any part contact the user while being carried, assembled, P1969PCAU

[0271] 45 disassembled or in use. The hunting aid device 40 is not unwieldly or cumbersome, which makes it pleasant and enjoyable to use in the field.

[0272] Another object of a preferred embodiment of the present invention is for a hunting aid device 40 that is noiseless so that it does not alert game animals and cause them to move from the area resulting in a failed hunt. The adaptable hunting aid 40 in the preferred embodiment has advantages of being noiseless in use due to not having any noisy moveable parts that may squeak or clink etc.. Further, if care is taken the hunting aid 40 is easily able to be assembled, adjusted, adapted and disassembled discreetly and with very minimal noise whereby it does not spook game. The acoustic properties of the support bar 38 and support line 39 in the preferred embodiment are also such that should something like a low branch brush against the adaptable hunting aid 40 while in use, the hunting aid 40 will not resonate and make noises that are unnatural in the wilderness environment of the game being hunted.

[0273] The adaptable hunting aid 40 is also able to be used should a hunter come to harm after a misadventure such as a fall or snake bite. The adaptable hunting aid 40 in the preferred embodiment is easily adapted for use as a splint to support an injured limb, whereby the support bar 38 is able to be adjusted in length to suit the limb requiring support and the support line 39 is able to be used to affix the splint to the limb.

[0274] In a further embodiment, the support bar 38 may be used as a tarp or shelter pole during camping or overnight hunting expeditions. The support bar may be extended to the desired height using its telescoping sections and positioned vertically or at an angle to support the corner or centre of a tarp, bivvy, or lightweight shelter. The flexible support line 39 may be used to anchor the tarp or secure the pole to fixed objects or stakes in the environment. This configuration enables the device to function as a lightweight, portable shelter support system without requiring dedicated tent poles or additional gear. P1969PCAU

[0275] 46

[0276] Several alternative embodiments of the adaptable hunting aid 40 are envisioned. The support bar 38 could be comprised of more than two members engaged with each other and interconnected by a plurality of connection means for fixing the length of the support bar 38. The support line 39 could be comprised of a first support line member and a second support line member that are adjustably connected by an adjustable line connection means such as a buckle whereby the user has a plurality of choices for the length of the intermediate portion 11 of the flexible support line 39. Further, the support bar 38 and extension 41 could be made from different combinations of materials, the support bar made from PVC tube and the extension 41 made from carbon fibre rod as an example.

[0277] In an alternative embodiment, the support bar 38 is constructed from carbon fibre tubing to reduce overall weight while maintaining high strength and rigidity. In this embodiment, the first support bar member 1 and second support bar member 5 are cylindrical carbon fibre tubes, with the second member telescopically received within the first.

[0278] Instead of relying on aligned through apertures and a retainer pin to fix the length of the support bar 38, this embodiment employs a releasable interconnection in the form of a friction locking mechanism. Specifically, the interface between the telescoping support bar members includes a twist-lock or compression-lock collar, such as a threaded or cam-based twist collar located near the junction of the overlapping tubes. When using such embodiment, the user adjusts the length of the support bar 38 by sliding the members to the desired position and rotating the collar to compress and fictionally secure the inner tube in place.

[0279] The friction locking mechanism allows for continuous, fine-length adjustment rather than fixed discrete positions. This provides enhanced usability when the support bar 38 is used in configurations such as a monopod shooting stick, hiking stick, or optical support, where precise height control may be desirable. It also eliminates the need for through-aperture drilling, preserving the structural integrity of the carbon fibre and reducing the risk of stress fractures. P1969PCAU

[0280] 47

[0281] This embodiment is particularly suited to premium lightweight models intended for backcountry hunting or extended field use, where equipment weight and compactness are critical. The carbon fibre construction and friction lock mechanism together offer a robust, silent, corrosion-resistant solution with minimal moving parts.

[0282] In a further embodiment, the support bar 38 comprises four telescoping sections constructed from high-strength, lightweight carbon fibre tubing. Each section nests concentrically within the adjacent larger section, allowing the support bar to collapse to a compact transport length of approximately 50 centimetres and extend to a full operational length of approximately 1 .7 metres.

[0283] This embodiment is particularly suited to hunters requiring a versatile tool that supports trekking across varied terrain, glassing distant slopes, and shooting from a standing position. The extended reach of 1 .7 metres allows the user to stabilise optical devices or a firearm at eye level while standing upright, eliminating the need to crouch or compromise body position.

[0284] Each telescoping joint is secured using a friction-based twist-lock mechanism, allowing the user to rapidly deploy or stow the device without tools. The twist-lock mechanism provides smooth and continuous adjustability across the full range of lengths, enabling precise height customisation to suit different uses or user preferences.

[0285] The carbon fibre construction ensures the support bar remains ultralight for extended carry, while offering exceptional rigidity and dampening characteristics during use. When collapsed, the four-section bar easily fits within a standard daypack or can be attached externally via standard pack loops or clips.

[0286] This embodiment is ideal for hunters who need trekking pole support, glass steep terrain for extended periods or who favour standing shots where a stable, fullheight monopod shooting rest is required. The multi-stage collapse also improves P1969PCAU

[0287] 48 portability when navigating dense bush, steep ridgelines, or transitioning between hunting positions.

[0288] In one embodiment, the adaptable hunting aid device 40 is configured for releasable attachment to an archery bow such that the support bar 38 functions as a stabiliser during bow use. In this embodiment, the end adapter 19 of the support bar 38 includes a threaded connector 20 dimensioned to mate with the standard stabiliser port commonly found on compound and recurve bows. This threaded port is typically a 5 / 16"-24 UNF female thread, and the connector 20 is provided with a compatible male thread for secure engagement.

[0289] The support bar 38 is oriented longitudinally forward from the riser of the bow when attached, and functions as a forward stabiliser to reduce bow torque, absorb vibration, and improve shot consistency. The adjustable length of the support bar 38 allows the user to customise the stabiliser length for optimal balance and feel.

[0290] The flexible support line 39 may be wrapped around the support bar 38 or secured using tension hooks to prevent interference during archery use. In some embodiments, the support line 39 may be temporarily removed from the support bar to reduce visual or physical distraction during shooting.

[0291] Upon completion of archery use, the user may manually detach the adaptable hunting aid device 40 from the bow by unscrewing the threaded connector 20 from the bow’s stabiliser port. Once removed, the support bar 38 and support line 39 may be readily reconfigured in the field for one or more alternative uses, including as a hiking stick, monopod, game drag, field processing device, or gambrel, as previously described.

[0292] This embodiment enhances field efficiency for bowhunters, allowing a single, lightweight device to serve as both a stabiliser during the hunt and a multifunctional field tool after game is taken. P1969PCAU

[0293] 49

[0294] In an alternative embodiment, the support bar 38 may be attached to the bow using a quick-release coupling, magnetic adapter, or bayonet-style locking mechanism instead of a threaded connector. For example, a magnetic base integrated into the end adapter 19 may align and hold the support bar 38 in position against a metallic mounting plate affixed to the bow’s riser. Alternatively, a snap-lock or twist-lock connector may enable rapid tool-free connection and disconnection of the support bar 38. These alternate attachment methods facilitate faster transition between stabiliser and multifunctional field tool configurations without compromising performance or stability.

[0295] The adaptable hunting aid device 40 from the foregoing description has been exemplified as a multi-purpose device that aids the many needs of hunters undertaking the various aspects of the hunting process, having embodiments and configurations including, but not limited to, those such as its use as a: hiking stick; monopod to support optical devices; monopod to support a camera; monopod selfie stick to support a smartphone; shooting stick; game drag; game processing device; gambrel; tarp or shelter pole; emergency splint or limb brace; balance pole for stream crossings or uneven terrain; solo or two-person game carrying device; and vehicle-assisted drag interface. These various configurations may be rapidly deployed and adjusted in the field without tools, enabling hunters to carry less gear while achieving multiple functions with a single lightweight, compact system.

[0296] Together, the components and features of the present invention provide many significant improvements and advantages over the prior art, not only in the individual embodiments and configurations described, but most significantly in that the hunter is now able to carry one hunting aid device 40 that is adaptable and adjustable and has uses in aiding the hunter in almost all aspects of hunting and processing game animals of various sizes.

[0297] From the foregoing description a number of objects, features and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention have been disclosed and may be readily understood by those skilled in the art. The invention is capable of other P1969PCAU

[0298] 50 embodiments and of being used in various other ways. The description is not intended to be limited to the embodiments and configurations specifically mentioned, and of course, various changes, modifications and alterations from the express teachings herein may be apparent to persons skilled in the art without departing from the intended spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, reference should be made to the appended claims rather than the foregoing discussion of preferred examples to assess the scope of the invention in which exclusive rights are claimed.

[0299] The term “comprises” and its grammatical variants has a meaning that is determined by the context in which it appears. Accordingly, the term should not be interpreted exhaustively unless the context dictates so. Likewise, the article “a” or “an” preceding an element does not exclude the presence of a plurality of such elements unless the context dictates so.

Claims

P1969PCAU51CLAIMS1 . A device for dragging and hanging animals; the device comprising a support bar that spaces a first line-through aperture from a second line- through aperture; and a flexible support line comprising an intermediate portion to connect a first noose to a second noose; wherein the flexible support line slides though the first line-through aperture and the second line-through aperture as the device is reconfigured from a hanging configuration in which the device is hung by the intermediate portion, the first noose holds a first respective animal-portion adjacent the first line-through aperture, and the second noose holds a second respective animal-portion adjacent the second line-through aperture; to a dragging configuration in which the support bar serves as a handle behind which at least one of the first noose and second noose is engaged with an animal.

2. The device of claim 1 wherein the support bar is telescopically extendible to adjust a spacing of the first line-through aperture from the second line-through aperture.

3. The device of claim 2 comprising a friction lock for releasably interconnecting support bar members at a selected length of the support bar.

4. The device of claim 1 , 2 or 3 wherein the flexible support line comprises a first loop slidably engageable with a nearby part of the intermediate portion to form the first noose; andP1969PCAU52 a second loop slidably engageable with a nearby part of the intermediate portion to form the second noose.

5. The device of claim 4 where the flexible line comprises a first end looped back on and affixed to itself to form the first loop; and a second end looped back on and affixed to itself to form the second loop.

6. The device of any of claims 1 to 5 wherein the first support line is a flat webbing flexible support line.

7. The use of the device of any one of claims 1 to 6 to drag and hang an animal.

8. A method comprising pushing, the support bar of the device of any one of claims 1 to 7, to drag an animal.

9. A method comprising alternately connecting two or more accessories to the support bar of the device of any one of claims 1 to 6.

10. The method of claim 8 where the two or more accessories are two or more of an optical device, a camera, a smartphone, a rifle rest mount, and a ground spike.

11. An adaptable hunting aid device comprising(a) a first support bar member having a rigid elongated tubular structure, a first proximal end, a first distal end, and a first line-through aperture;(b) a second support bar member having a rigid elongated structure, a second proximal end, a second distal end, and a second line-through aperture;(c) a support bar comprising the first support bar member telescopically engaging the second support bar member such that the support bar members are slidably disposed and releasably interconnected for fixing the length of the support bar; andP1969PCAU53(d) a flexible support line having a first end, a second end and an intermediate portion, engaging the support bar by the intermediate portion adjacent to the first end slidably extending through the first line-through aperture and the first end terminating in a first loop means and the intermediate portion adjacent to the second end slidably extending through the second line-through aperture and terminating in a second loop means, whereby a user can slidably alter the length of the intermediate portion on either side of the support bar and in doing so alter the length between said loops and the support bar.

12. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in claim 11 , further comprising a first support bar member having a plurality of first through apertures and a second support bar member having a plurality of second through apertures, wherein the support bar members are slidably disposed such that the first through apertures align with the second through apertures and receive the connection means that comprises a retainer pin means inserted through aligned holes, for releasably interconnecting and fixing the length of said support bar.

13. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in claim 11 , wherein the first and second support bar members are slidably disposed and the support bar further comprises a friction lock means for releasably interconnecting the support bar members at a selected length without requiring alignment of through apertures.

14. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the support bar comprises more than two telescopically engaged support bar members and a plurality of connection means for releasably interconnecting said support bar members.

15. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein the flexible support line further comprises a first support line member comprising the first end and a first intermediate portion and a second support line member comprising the second end and a second intermediate portion, the first and second intermediate portions adjustably connected by an adjustable lineP1969PCAU54 connection means, whereby a user has a plurality of choices for the length of the intermediate portion of the flexible support line.

16. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 15, wherein the flexible support line is configured such that the first and second ends may be removed from their respective first and second line-through apertures and later reinserted through said apertures to permit the support line to resume a sliding configuration through the support bar.

17. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 16, wherein the flexible support line includes, but is not limited to, configurations enabling loop-through-loop, noose, bar-noose, or other adjustable attachment arrangements for adapting to different game sizes and positions.

18. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in any one of claims 11 to 17, further comprising at least one end adapter means affixed to the first distal end and / or the second distal end of the support bar for releasably interconnecting an accessory to the support bar.

19. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the accessory includes, but is not limited to, an optical device, a camera, a smartphone, a rifle rest mount, or a ground spike.

20. The adaptable hunting aid device as claimed in claim 18, wherein the accessory includes an extension comprising an elongated rigid extension member having a first extension end and a second extension end, each having end adapter means for releasably interconnecting the extension to the support bar, to another extension member, or to an accessory.21 . A method of using an adaptable hunting aid device comprising a telescopically adjustable support bar and a flexible support line with looped ends, the method comprising:(a) configuring the support bar to a selected length;P1969PCAU55(b) attaching an accessory to the support bar via a releasable end adapter; and(c) reconfiguring the device in the field for one or more of the following functions: a hiking stick, monopod for stabilising optical or photographic equipment, shooting rest, game drag, game processing aid, gambrel, or other field support function including use as a shelter support, balance pole, vehicle-assisted dragging, carrying a harvested animal, or emergency splint.

Images