The Broadsword of the Sky. A Partnership of Power and Patience. To the casual observer, the Red-tailed Hawk is a common sight along North American highways. To the falconer, it is the "Broadsword" —a rugged, reliable, and immensely powerful predator capable of navigating the thickest brush and securing the most challenging quarry. In The Hunter and The Handler: The Red-Tailed Hawk , Master Falconer Fazil Zafar provides the definitive blueprint for partnering with this legendary raptor. Whether you are an apprentice navigating the legal "gauntlet" or a seasoned handler looking to refine your "heavy-gear" tactics, this guide is your essential companion for the 2026 season. Inside this comprehensive guide, you’ll master: Part I: The Broadsword – Go beyond the basics of Buteo jamaicensis . Understand the stoic temperament , the crushing power of the feet, and the legal hurdles of the modern permit process. - Part II: The Partnership – A masterclass in technical infrastructure. Learn to build the "General’s Quarters" (the mews) and implement the specialized "heavy-gear" protocols —from three-layer cowhide jesses to high-capacity 2026 telemetry. - Part III: The Field – Tactical blueprints for the hunt. Master the "High-Seat Strategy" for squirrels and rabbits, learn the mechanics of the high-speed "slip," and navigate the ethical cycle of the seasonal molt and release . Why the Red-tail? Why Now? In an era of disappearing habitats, the Red-tailed Hawk’s versatility is its greatest asset. The Hunter and The Handler elevates this species from a mere "beginner bird" to its rightful place as a master-class hunting partner .