The Hunter

With the exception of the redline purists, each of us is a hunter. And as any good hunter, we all have little tricks and idiosyncrasies. For example, I never go to the same stores at the same times. I've found that random store selection and random visit times yields the best scores. Some folks are just the opposite, they prefer a scheduled hunt period, visiting the same stores at nearly the same times and days. That's cool, whatever works for you.

But once inside the store, the hunter instinct really takes over. You stalk your prey, sneak up on it, quickly but quietly, and snag that prize from the pegs. Pretty basic hunter stuff. But how do you act when approaching your prize? For me, I never see what's directly in front of me. It's a constant movement of the eyes, checking end caps, checking impulse buy racks at the checkouts, taking a quick peek at every shelf and rack between the front door and the diecast aisle.

And what I have noticed myself doing lately really cracks me up. I'll bet I'm not the only one that does it, either. Picture yourself as you read this. Not only do I scan all the store fixtures on the way to the aisle, I also glance at every shopping cart that is heading in the opposite direction. Hey, after all, it's me against them. They are hunters as well. Seeing a lack of toys in their cart means they are after a different prey, and one may have a shot at the big prize. But when you see another hunter rounding the corner with the daily bag limit, you feel a little let down, and the immortal words of the great Maxwell Smart run through your head, "Missed it by THAT much!"

Just in case, though, you continue to the aisle, to check for any leftovers that the prior hunter may have missed. After all, he may have gotten your car, but perhaps there is a something worthwhile anyway. You didn't travel on this hunt not to at least take a look.

After searching the hunting grounds, whether or not the hunt was successful, I exit the store in a different direction from the entry to the aisle, scanning every nook and cranny, you know, just in case the prey is hiding. You just never know where you'll see the prize laying about.

Hone your hunter skills, folks. Find what works for you, and build on that. Have a little fun on your hunts, make a game of it. And like all good hunters, please remember that you aren't going to bag your limit every time you go out. Most times, you're coming home empty handed. Going into the hunt with the thought that you aren't going to score makes the eventual score that much better. If you think you're going to score on every trip, you're in for a big letdown, and eventually you become bitter and resentful of the successful hunter.

It's you against them. Eventually everyone gets their prize. Have some fun with it!

--Joe