Clay pigeon shooting is a thrilling sport that combines good technique, focus, and precision. It's a pastime enjoyed by many, from casual shots to competitive athletes. It is also an Olympic sport.
This guide is designed to introduce you to the world of clay pigeon shooting. It's perfect for those who are new to the sport or looking to enhance their skills.
We'll cover everything from the basics of shooting techniques to the intricacies of shooting. You'll learn about the essential equipment, safety measures, and common shooting drills.
We'll also delve into the common mistakes beginners make and how to avoid them. Plus, we'll provide tips on joining the clay pigeon shooting community.
Whether you're a novice shooter or someone interested in trying out a new sport, this guide will provide you with the knowledge you need to get started. So, let's dive into the exciting world of clay pigeon shooting for your basic shooting lesson.
Clay pigeon shooting, also known as clay target shooting, is a shooting sport involving flying clay targets. These targets, known as clay pigeons, are launched from a machine called a trap.
There are different types of clay targets:
The objective is simple: hit the clay pigeon in mid-air with a shotgun. However, mastering the sport requires practice, precision, and a good understanding of shooting techniques.
There are three main types of clay pigeon shooting: trap, skeet, and sporting. Each type has its unique rules and challenges, making the sport versatile and engaging.
In this discipline, targets are launched from a single machine known as DTL (Down the Line) & ABT (Automatic Ball Trap). Then we have 5 machines known as UT (Universal Trap) and 15 machines known as OT (Olympic Trap) Shooters take turns firing at the targets from five different stations.
Skeet shooting involves two traps located in separate towers. These are known as the High House and the Low House. The targets are shot from seven different stations in a certain sequence. There are 3 different types of Skeet: National Skeet, NASSA Skeet and Olympic Skeet.
This type of shooting involves a variety of different target presentations shot from several different stands. An example of this is Crossers, Driven, Loopers, Incomers, Rabbits and Going Away targets. There are 4 different types of Sporting: English Sporting, FITASC Sporting, Super Sporting and Compac Sporting.
To participate in clay pigeon shooting, you'll need some essential equipment. The most important piece is, of course, a shotgun. Shotguns come in various gauges and it's crucial to choose one that fits you well and suits your shooting style and discipline.
Ammunition is another key component. The type of ammunition you choose can significantly impact your shooting performance. It's best to start with lighter loads as they produce less recoil, making them more comfortable for beginners.
The ammunition can change depending on the clay shooting discipline you choose to shoot.
Safety should always be your top priority when participating in any shooting sport. For clay pigeon shooting, you'll need protective eyewear to shield your eyes from fragments of broken clay pigeons or stray pellets.
Ear protection is equally important. The noise from a shotgun can be harmful to your hearing, especially with prolonged exposure. Therefore, always wear earplugs or earmuffs when shooting.
Mastering the basics of shooting technique is crucial for success in clay pigeon shooting. It involves learning the correct stance, how to hold and mount your shotgun, and finding your dominant eye.
Your stance and posture play a significant role in your shooting performance. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. If you are right handed your foot position should be front foot pointing towards one o’clock and your back foot pointing towards three o’clock. If you are left handed you should point your front foot towards eleven o’clock and your back foot towards nine o’clock. Your body should lean slightly forward from the hip, allowing you to absorb the recoil of the shotgun and help your body mechanics move the shotgun easily between target presentations.
Holding and mounting your shotgun correctly is essential for good shooting. The butt of the shotgun should rest firmly against your shoulder. When mounting, you should always bring the gun up to your face arriving underneath the cheekbone with positive pressure - Never shoulder first or do not take your face down to the gun. It is incredibly important to have your gun fitted to you. This significantly improves the point of impact, which means your shotgun shoots when you are looking. However you should perfect your shotgun mount first before having your gun fitted.
Identifying your dominant eye can massively improve your shooting. To find your dominant eye, extend your arms and form a triangle with your thumbs and forefingers. Look at a distant object through the triangle, then close one eye at a time. The eye that keeps the object in view is your dominant eye. This however is a basic test and you should seek help from a professional coach or a suitable optician.
There are several different shooting methods we can use to successfully break the target:
Pull Away
Swing Through
Maintained Lead
Intercept
Negative Lead
If you are looking to become a better shot and learn how to shoot these different methods then you need to seek help from a professional coach. A good coach can help you develop and also achieve your goals.
To improve your clay pigeon shooting, regular practice is essential. This includes not only shooting at the range but also performing specific drills at home. These drills can help you develop muscle memory and improve your shotgun mount.
Here are a few drills you can try:
Focus and concentration are crucial in clay pigeon shooting. It's not just about physical skill; it's also a mental game. You need to be able to block out distractions and focus solely on your target, especially in high level competition.
Clay pigeon shooting is not just about the sport, it's also about the community. Joining a local club or association ( CPSA - Clay Pigeon Shooting Association) can provide you with valuable resources and support. It's a great way to meet like-minded individuals and learn from more experienced shooters.
Moreover, participating in local events and competitions can enhance your shooting and your confidence. It's also a fun way to engage with the sport and make new friends.
Clay pigeon shooting is a rewarding sport that combines good technique, focus and patience. As a beginner, it's important to find a good professional coach, learn the basics, practice regularly, and embrace the learning process.
Remember, every top shot was once a beginner. So, take the first step, join a local club, and start your journey in clay pigeon shooting today.
Former World Champion David Beardsmore has a wealth of knowledge at his disposal in his shooting lessons. With a calm, patient approach and easy to understand instruction, David helps to improve all abilities, whether you’re a novice or seasoned shooter.
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Over the past 20 years David Beardsmore alongside Head Keeper Oliver Davies have developed four exclusive game shooting days with ducks, pheasants and partridges located on the Shropshire / Worcestershire borders .
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David Beardsmore Shooting offers a selection of simulated game shooting days at several exclusive country estates set in the stunning rolling countryside of Shropshire & Worcestershire.
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