 Proper Technique - Shooting Clay Pigeons
Shooting clay pigeons, called trap, sport clays, or skeet shooting is an excellent way for hunters to practice shooting birds in the air. A clay pigeon is a disc about 4½ inches across that is thrown into the air by a machine called a trap. The term "clay pigeons" is a misnomer, they are actually made from compressed chalk, pitch and charcoal.
The clay pigeons are released by the trap at speeds up to 65 mph and are usually shot by hunters with 12 gauge shot guns. Typical barrel lengths vary between 26 to 32 inches. Semi automatic guns are generally used as pump action guns are unsuitable for clay pigeon shooting.
In trapshooting there are usually 5 stations at a range and shooters fire up to 2 shots per target then move to the next station and repeat.
In Skeet shooting the range is semicircular with 8 stations where single or double clay pigeons are launched between 3 feet and 10 feet into the air on either side of the range.
Sporting clays is based on simulated field shooting. Shooters have a wide variety of targets that mimic the flight of gamebirds that flush, cross, and angle. There are usually between 5 to 10 shooting stations. Stations are usually different and use natural settings to create a realistic settings. Clay pigeons may be thrown in singles, pairs or various combinations to challenge shooters.
Safety Is Always First
When shooting clay pigeons you should wear safety glasses because target fragments can be dangerous. You also need to protect your ears from the repeated sound of gunfire. Your ears and eyes are not replaceable; please protect them. If you are shooting at an official range these will be mandatory. Always point guns in a safe direction and handle shells safely.
Just Shoot?
Just shooting thousands of shells at clay pigeons will not make you a better shooter. It may make you feel better after a hard day at work, but it won't help build your hunting skills. However, careful practice of sight alignment, targeting, and trigger control can help you shoot better. Far too many times when people shoot at clay pigeons they do not take enough time to really aim and perfect their accuracy and skill. For the serious hunter this is not a shooting gallery, but a chance to perfect their shooting skills.
For example, when shooting it is natural to flinch and anticipate the recoil of the gun. You can practice with dry runs first to get use to the proper shooting technique. When you practice and know what to expect, your shooting will become more relaxed and precise. Target practice is great when you're trying to perfect your skills, gallery shooting often encourages you learn to bad habits that are hard to break when hunting real live targets.
For more information contact:
CPSA - The Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (UK)
NSCA - National Clays Sporting Asssociation (USA)
ICPSA - Irish Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (Ireland)
NSSA - National Skeet Shooting Association (USA)
Skeet Shooting, Sporting Clays, Trap Shooting Club Locator (USA)
Rainy day? Stay indoors and play clay pigeon shooting online.
Good luck and happy -and successful- hunting!
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