The Boot
Originally called the Mascoutin, after the tribe of Indians that inhabited the Fox River valley that Russell calls home, the Bird Shooter model is one of our longest running patterns. Updated in the late 1920's by Russell's President, Bill Gustin, the Bird Shooter was marketed to the outdoor community with great success in the subsequent decades. Sold by Abercrombie & Fitch, Eddie Baur, and V,L&A of Chicago, it found its way onto the feet of some of the most consequential explorers and pioneers of the 20th century. Two pairs of this model are now housed in the Smithsonian Museums. One is a pair worn by Wiley Post who was the first man to fly to the Stratosphere in a fixed wing aircraft, pioneering the use of pressure suits. The second was worn for 2050 miles by Earl Shaffer in 1948 when he became the first person to complete the Appalachian Trail. Nearly all Russell lace up boots can trace their lineage to Gustin's Bird Shooter, including the Backcountry and PH models. Attempts to copy the iconic lines and aesthetic of the Bird Shooter have persisted for decades, but the unique performance and craftsmanship has never been replicated. There is a solid argument to be made that the Bird Shooter is the single-most accomplished boot in American History.
The Leather
Made from our classic water-resistant, full-grain Walnut Timberjack leather, the Bird Shooter is nearly impervious to water. Tanned at S.B. Foot in Minnesota, the hides come from the local region and are an excellent material for a technical boot. Condition with Obenaufs or Pecards.
The Construction
The Bird Shooter is made with our famous Double Vamp Moccasin construction. The entire boot is leather lined for support and added water-resistance. The Gustin is 9" tall with Army Studs, top eyelet, and a pull loop. A hand-molded oak leather heel counter makes the boot lock onto your foot for ultimate control and stability. Please note that the boot itself takes very little break in, but there may be a short break in period for the heel counter to mold itself to your heel shape. This typically takes 2-3 days of wear.
The Sole
Our most versatile sole, the Aspen Gumlite, is paired with the Bird Shooter for use in a broad range of environments. Great comfort, and moderate tread depth
Specifications
- 9 inches tall
- Water-resistant Walnut Timberjack Leather
- Double Vamp Construction
- Leather lined for support and added water-resistance
- Hand molded oak leather heel counters
- Vibram Aspen Gumlite
- Pull Loops
- Eyelets over the instep for security
- Army studs for easy lacing
- Open top eyelet for secure knotting
- Lightweight and water-resistant
This boot is a Classic Build, meaning that upon your order it will be put into production on a 12-16 week lead time.
Sizing Confidence: By ordering this boot you understand that if the fit is too large or small, you can exchange it within 30 days of delivery in unworn condition and we will put another pair into production for you in an adjusted size of your choice. Exchanges are limited to 1 per order and the production timeline for the second pair will be 12-16 weeks. Classic Builds are non-refundable. International customers: please see Return Policies page for more information.
