The sport of shooting sporting clays is an activity that has been captivating people for generations thanks to its perfect blend of precision, speed, and strategy.
There’s just something about trying to hit a moving target that gets the blood pumping, and whether you’re trying it out for the adrenaline rush or your love of being outside, there’s no denying that aiming flying targets for the first time can be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking.
But don’t worry! I’ll guide you through how to shoot sporting clays for beginners, in order to shoot like a pro on the links – even if it’s your first time on one yourself.
1. What is Sporting Clays?
Before we get to the meaty parts of technique, let’s take a moment to understand what sporting clays are.
Invented as a way to imitate hunting birds that never quite fly in straight lines, clay targets (also known as clay pigeons) are thrown into the air from stations located all throughout the course.
Whereas traditional trap shooting has targets moving predictably down set paths, sporting clay fields have traps set up differently so that shooters feel like they’re aiming at real game birds.
2. Safety First
OK. Now that you know how the game works, let’s make sure you understand how not to hurt yourself or anyone else with your shotgun. Here’s a quick checklist:
2.1. Shotgun
Technically, any shotgun could be used here, but if you want my 2 cents? A 20-gauge will be your best friend when it comes time to pull the trigger for the first time.
2.2. Ammunition
Birdshot shells are going to be what most ranges require in their rules, so when shopping, make sure not to grab anything that’ll get you kicked out before you’ve had any fun!
2.3. Eye and Ear Protection
If you’re interested in shooting sports, you should already own a pair of shooting glasses and earplugs or earmuffs. If not, there’s no time like the present to grab a set.
2.4. Comfortable Clothing
It might be hot outside, but make sure to dress in something easy to move around in so your clothes don’t interfere with your stance and aim.
After that, make sure to brush up on some basic safety guidelines, such as keeping your muzzle pointed at the ground and never loading until you’re ready to shoot.
3. Fundamentals of Shooting
Now that we’ve gone through all that boring stuff, let’s learn how to hit something!
Here are some fundamental techniques for aiming at moving targets that you can utilize on your next visit:
3.1. Dominate It!
As I’ve mentioned before in previous articles on this website (like this one), having a dominant eye is vital for accurate shooting. Learn which eye is yours using our instructions here before setting up any shots, as it will determine how you stand and line up each attempt.
3.2. Stance!
Once you know which side is best for aiming, stabilize yourself! Plant both feet shoulder-width apart with the foot opposite your dominant hand pointed towards where the target will be thrown from the next time you shoot.
Lean forward slightly onto that foot so most of your weight resides there, and keep the rest of your body straight and robust above it in case recoil catches you by surprise later on.
3.3 Mounting
With your stance sorted out, now we need to work on getting comfortable with whatever shotgun model you’re using so that its kick doesn’t throw off future shots.
Push the butt into the groove near your shoulder joint snugly enough, so it won’t slip off during any swings, then place your cheek firmly against the stock. Finally, take a moment to ensure your eye is looking straight through the center of the iron sights so you’ll have a good chance at hitting whatever you aim.
3.4. Anticipate Target Trajectory
It kind of goes without saying, but you’re not going to hit every target on your first try, and that’s OK! Just focus on having fun and learning with each swing.
Instead of keeping your eyes glued to wherever the clay may fly off to, try to anticipate where it will be once it reaches its peak flight height instead so that you’ll be able to pull the trigger before it starts coming back down again.
3.5. Keep the Gun Moving
Follow-through is huge in this type of shooting. Once you pick it up, continue moving along the target’s path until you’ve completed your motion, keeping it as fluid as possible! Doing so will ensure greater control and accuracy when the time comes.
4. Building Mental Fortitude
Developing mental fortitude is just as important for success in shooting sports as mastering the physical aspects. Below are two essential cognitive skills to cultivate:
4.1 Trust Your Instincts
Overthinking can be a killer sometimes—literally! Allow yourself to trust what your body feels like doing instead of always thinking about every movement you make or angle you aim at. With practice, our bodies develop an intuition for things like timing and lead on their own!
4.2 Patience Practice
These types of shooting require us to be present and composed to tackle those challenging targets that pop up sporadically from all angles. That being said, try not to rush any of your shots or get too down on yourself if they’re not perfect every time—you’re not alone! Take a deep breath between each one and focus on executing them precisely instead.
5. Technology: Role of Training Aids
In today’s society, we have access to incredible technology that our ancestors only dreamt about… so why not use it? Using tools such as ShotKam—a high-definition camera mounted on your shotgun—can provide real-time feedback on how you’re doing out there with just a few simple clicks (or taps) here and.
Closing Thoughts
As I’m sure you know, learning something new takes time, patience, and a good amount of effort—but most importantly, fun! Use each round as an opportunity to learn and grow as a shooter and individual.
With a solid foundation of technique, an unwavering mindset, and a passion for the sport, you’ll be hitting clays with confidence and precision in no time! So grab your shotgun (and don’t forget your safety gear), go down to the range, and start shooting some sporting clays!
Last Updated on by shubham
