The Sporting Saint Handheld Dummy Launcher is a UK proof tested training launcher for building steadiness, drive, and retrieve skills in working gundogs. Improved model with stainless steel parts. Range up to 100m via .22 cal blank selection. Available launcher only (£98.99) or with dummy (£124.45). Ear protection required. ★★★★★ 5.0 stars from 1 verified review.

Why We Recommend It

A dummy launcher changes what's possible in a training session. The distance and consistency of a launched dummy — up to 100m — is simply not achievable by hand, and that distance matters for developing the retrieve drive, directional work, and steadiness to shot that define a finished working dog. The sound of the blank also conditions dogs to gunfire in a controlled training environment, which is one of the most important preparations for a first season. The improved stainless steel parts address the durability concerns of earlier models — this is a tool that will last for years of regular use. At £124.45 with a dummy included, it's a significant but justified investment for any handler serious about their dog's development.

Key Benefits

Improved stainless steel parts — greater durability than previous model
Up to 100m range — distances impossible to achieve by hand throw
Variable range — 40m, 80m, 100m via blank selection
Conditions dogs to gunfire — essential preparation for the first season
UK proof tested — .22 cal blanks, built-in extractor, recoil handle
Launches over water, hedges, fences, and walls — realistic training scenarios
Designed and manufactured by Sporting Saint

Bailey Says 🐾

My friends, I have strong feelings about the launcher. The sound is significant. The distance is impressive. I am trained to be steady to shot and I am, in fact, very steady. But I will admit that the first time Craig used this, I was surprised. I am now completely unruffled by it, which is the point. If your dog needs to learn steadiness to shot before the season, this is the tool. I endorse it, with the caveat that ear protection is non-negotiable. Even for dogs. 🐾

Perfect For

Building steadiness to shot — essential for any working gundog
Distance retrieve training — distances impossible to achieve by hand
Conditioning dogs to gunfire in a controlled training environment
Directional work and blind retrieve training at distance
Handlers preparing dogs for their first shooting season
Advanced retrieve work — over water, hedges, fences, and walls

Specifications

Model: Improved — stainless steel parts
Blank calibre: .22 cal launcher blanks
Range: Short 40m | Medium 80m | Long 100m (depending on dummy type)
Extractor: Built-in
Handle: Recoil handle for comfortable operation
Testing: UK proof tested
Safety: Ear protection required at all times during use
Variants: Launcher only (£98.99) | With dummy (£124.45)
Brand: Sporting Saint — designed and manufactured in the UK

How To Use

Always wear ear protection before loading or firing the launcher.
Select the appropriate blank for your required distance — short (40m), medium (80m), or long (100m).
Load the dummy onto the launcher barrel and the blank into the chamber.
Ensure your dog is steady and under control before firing.
Fire in a safe direction, away from people, animals, and property.
Use the built-in extractor to remove the spent blank case before reloading.
Inspect the launcher regularly for wear or damage — replace parts if necessary before continued use.
Read the full user instructions supplied with the launcher before first use.

Care Guide

Inspect before every use — check for wear, damage, or obstruction in the barrel.
Clean the barrel and extractor after use to prevent residue build-up.
Store unloaded in a dry place, away from children and unsupervised access.
The stainless steel parts are corrosion-resistant but should be kept clean and dry.
Replace any worn or damaged parts before continued use — do not use a damaged launcher.

Professional Insight

The dummy launcher is the single most effective tool for replicating field conditions in a training environment. The combination of the shot sound and the distance of the retrieve creates a training scenario that hand-thrown dummies simply cannot match. Steadiness to shot — the dog remaining still at the sound of the blank until sent — is one of the most important behaviours in a working gundog, and it can only be properly trained with a launcher or in a live shooting environment. The variable range via blank selection allows handlers to progress systematically: short distance for early steadiness work, medium for directional training, long for advanced blind retrieve and drive development. The stainless steel improvement addresses the main weakness of earlier models and makes this a tool that will last for years of regular use.

Training Academy Tip 💡

Introduce the launcher gradually. Before firing with a dummy, fire a blank without a dummy while your dog is at a distance with another handler — observe the reaction and reward calmness. Then introduce the dummy launch at short distance before building to full range. Dogs that are introduced to the launcher sound gradually and positively will be steady to shot in the field; dogs introduced abruptly may develop noise sensitivity that is difficult to correct. Take the time to do it right.

ProTrain Principle

Distance and shot conditioning cannot be replicated by hand. The launcher is not a luxury — it is a training necessity for any dog destined for the field.

Complete Your Setup

Dummy Blanks for Launchers | Canvas Dummy for Dummy Launcher | Bisley Canvas Dummy for Launcher

FAQs

Do I need a licence to use a dummy launcher?

In the UK, dummy launchers using .22 cal blanks are not firearms and do not require a firearms licence. However, they must be used responsibly and safely, in appropriate locations, and in accordance with the instructions supplied. Always check local bylaws and landowner permissions before use.

Is ear protection really necessary?

Yes — ear protection must be worn at all times when using the launcher. The report from a .22 cal blank is significant and repeated exposure without protection causes hearing damage. This applies to the handler and any other people in the vicinity. We strongly recommend appropriate shooting ear defenders or ear plugs rated for firearm use.

Which dummy should I choose?

The launcher is available with a choice of canvas dummies (Green, Orange, Blue, Red, White) or pelt dummies (Cock Pheasant, Hen Pheasant, Mallard, Partridge, PVC Red, PVC White). Canvas dummies are the standard choice for distance retrieve training. Pelt dummies add game scent and texture for more advanced work. If you already have dummies, the launcher-only option at £98.99 is the most cost-effective choice.

What blanks does it use?

The launcher uses .22 cal launcher blanks, available separately. The range achieved depends on the blank power selected — short (40m), medium (80m), or long (100m). See our Dummy Blanks for Launchers listing for compatible blanks.

What's improved in the new stainless steel model?

The improved model features stainless steel parts in key areas, offering significantly greater durability and corrosion resistance compared to the previous model. This is particularly beneficial for handlers who use the launcher regularly in wet field conditions.