Help with choosing your coursing system.
You have decided to finally take the plunge and get a coursing system for training your dogs.
Ok so which one do I need?
PCS
System selection is in my opinion fairly simple. If you want to run 2-3 times per week and don't need to run 600 yards plus each time the PCS is ideal.
If you want to train your young ones , PCS is ideal.
One time investment in the PCS will cover you for a long time. No need for additional equipment.
By running multiple times with cool down in between this unit can be a very efficient exercise tool.
LCM
If you want to seriously condition your dog for open field or lure trials or you run a dog facility, then the larger system is the way to go.
Once you have become a serious competitor, you probably have already worked some trials, lure operated at some and the equipment maintenance and setup does not face you. You are ready for the LCM!
A complete LCM setup with batteries, line, drive wheel, 12-15 pulleys, battery charger, generator can range in cost from $500-$1500 depending on the particular components you select. Needless to say you will need some way to transport it and an area where you can set it up. My preferred setup for a large trial consists of 4 batteries, 2 motors with drive wheels, this way I can alternate the motors if they start to run hot. For practice purposes though a single motor and battery will be sufficient as long as equipment is maintained.
Take up vs Continuous loop discussion
According to my knowledge when mechanical lure coursing was invented they did drag lure or take up style. What this means is that you retrieve the line back into the machine with each run. You will have to restring the course for each time you want to run. This can be time consuming if you have a long course. There are distinct advantages though, less stress on equipment,
more action on the lure, safer for dogs and participants.
Take up style is the only way to run the PCS , the LCM can run both, simply just use the spool up reel where you store your line and it will work as a take up system. You will soon develop a good feel for the restringing and for the operation as they differ quite significantly. To switch to continous loop style, simply remove the spool up reel and mount the drive reel, string your line and you are done.
Well almost, you need to check your tension to make sure the unit responds the way you want it to, you also need to make sure your line is not running to high as this can be dangerous for the dogs. You will quickly discover where your equipment weaknesses are as this style will stress the parts more. All in all I am confident that both take up style and continuous loop will continue to develop and everyone will have their preferences. Bottom line is just be safe and use your best judgment to make sure everyone has a good time.