5 TIPS AND TRICKS TO HELP YOU BREAK MORE CLAY TARGETS


By jlustig
Clay targets shatter during the M-9 pistol stress shoot event held during the 2nd Annual Forces Command Marksmanship Competition Nov. 8 at Fort Bragg, N.C.

Want to know more about clay targets and how to select the right clay shooting gun? Well look no further this article that has all the information you need. We are welcoming you into the world of clay pigeon shooting and are sharing our list of the best shooting disciplines that Veterans can get involved in.Suggested read: Finding a Shooting Range Near Me: Choosing the Right One

What Exactly Are Clay Targets?

If you are interested in shooting a gun in the field and aiming at targets, clay target shooting is your type of game. Targets range from rabbit clay targets to clay pigeon targets. There are also ducks, pheasants, and other upland birds. Targets are thrown from any angle or distance to have the experience of wingshooting. This game is typically played with a group of two to six people and there are 10 to 15 shooting stations laid around fields. All clay targets launch at various speeds, angles, and distances. Now, a little about the game. You will start on the assigned first station and shoot each station in order. When shooting clay targets, if you break a part of the target that is a dead bird. The referee will keep score and will have the final word on whether the shot was a miss or a hit.Having the right clay shooting gun is important, as it influences the entire experience!Suggested read: Choosing the Best Gun Safe for Veterans

Selecting the Right Gun for Shattering Clay Targets

There are many different guns out there that you can use for clay targets, but in order to have accuracy and precision your gun plays a huge part.A 12, 20, and 28 gauge are the most common guns to shoot with. If you take games seriously, are competitive, and want power and versatility, the 12 gauge is your best bet. However, some might prefer a smaller gauge like the 20 or 28, it all depends on the persona and how they want to perform.The barrel length is another consideration to think about. Longer barrels are known for being more accurate while shorter barrels are more maneuverable and easier to handle.There are many considerations when picking the right gun, but if you choose correctly, you'll be shooting like a pro!

4 Clay Shooting Disciplines Vets Can Get Involved In

There are four different types of clay shooting, and they all have their own unique characteristics and style. Below, we're breaking down the best clay shooting disciplines for Veterans looking to shatter some clay targets.

Skeet

If you are into dove and duck hunting, skeet is the best way to practice your skills and get better. After all, you're trying to become the best of the best! Skeet is for learning. Once you can hit the crossers at 3,4, and 5, doves won’t be such a nerve racking target.

Trap

Are you a beginner? Trap will be your best friend, helping you understand the basics. The targets require very little lead, and most people can get a score into the teens fairly quickly. If you like the idea of shooting 200 targets, trap is your go to then!

Sporting

Not looking for something too serious? Want to socialize and have fun? Sporting clay is going to be the best choice for you. Stations are spread all over the place and you will need a gun that shoots twice, because you will be shooting the clay targets as pairs.

Sportrap

Sportrap is a squadded discipline where the course contains five targets at each stand, for a total of 25 targets per round. Each person will have the opportunity to shoot their first bird. Once all the shooters complete the five birds, each person moves to the right. The challenging part is remembering what birds you are about to see, and which bird you are going to shoot first. The more you practice the better you will get. Now, get out there and have fun!

5 Essential Tips To Follow When Shooting Clay Targets

Here are some tips to remember:

  1. Safety always comes first!
  2. Find the ideal gun fit.
  3. Then, determine which eye is your dominant one.
  4. Practice your mounts with the gun unloaded.
  5. Lastly, focus on the target.

There are plenty of other tips out there, but these are source to help get you started. Good luck and have fun shattering some clay targets!Read next: Chuck Mawhinney: The Secret Sharpshooting GOAT in the USMC


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