Ravens are stripping the apples from my trees

[where I want to]

Since I no longer have a dog, the ravens have become irritatingly bold. They've done some stuff in the past but this year they have learned to take and eat my apples- many each day. And the ones they don't take off all together they peck at and ruin them.
I just got in from netting the trees they have been at recently but can only cover part of the trees. I have to cover what I can of the trees in another location tomorrow because they will be over there as soon as they can't get apples from the netted trees.
Don't say shoot them because frankly the trees and I are in more danger from a loaded gun in my hands than any raven would be.
Any other things to try?
Also, yes, I am positive these are ravens, not crows. Absolutely positively sure.

[farmerDale]

How many ravens? 3 or 20?

[where I want to]

Three so far. But the seem to take a dozen apples a day and I don't have big trees yet.

You know I blythely said three because that is all I see at one time. But I wonder if it is two sets of three because I can't see that many apples being on their menu. It would be hard to tell the difference between one group and another.

They did not bother my trees until my neighbor gave up on raising chickens- they used to live off eggs.

Again I'm sure they are ravens- pointed tail, hooked beaks. Yep- ravens. Don't have any crows.

[gone-a-milkin]

A powerful air rifle would do the job and not mke too much noise.

[farmerDale]

Some people shoot one and hang it in the tree. Apparently the others take a hint. But you did not want to shoot them really, so I dunno. But if there are only a few, 3-6, shooting could be VERY effective, and very fast. I would personally use a shotgun, and if you were careful could get more than one by sitting somewhere concealed and waiting. But you need to be a good enough, and safe enough shot. I understand your point of view as a non, or limited shooter type. Sorry, I am not sure what to tell you, other than that... Dang ravens! Up here, they are actually protected, and can not be shot.(legally at least). Another thing to watch for just in case.