If you’re new to clay pigeon shooting in the UK, hitting your first clay can feel like an impossible task. But with the right guidance and a little practice, you’ll be smashing targets before you know it. At The Big Shoot, we’ve helped thousands of first-timers across our shooting grounds in England, Scotland, and Wales discover the thrill of clay pigeon shooting.
Here are our top 5 tips for beginners to hit their first clay.
1. Nail Your Stance
Your stance is the foundation of every shot. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, weight slightly forward, and stay relaxed but balanced. This stable base will help you swing smoothly as the clay soars through the air. Whether you’re on a shooting ground in Yorkshire, Kent, or the Scottish Highlands, the basics remain the same: stability first.
2. Keep Your Eyes on the Clay
It’s tempting to focus on the bead at the end of your shotgun, but the golden rule of clay pigeon shooting is simple: always keep your eyes locked on the clay. Just like catching a ball, your brain automatically judges speed and distance when you track the moving target.
3. Learn to Lead the Target
Clays travel fast, much quicker than most beginners expect. To hit them, aim slightly ahead of the clay’s path. This is called “leading.” The exact amount depends on the type of target (from a fast “crosser” to a bouncing “rabbit”), but don’t worry our expert instructors across over 150 UK shooting venues will show you exactly how it’s done.
4. Follow Through After the Shot
Many beginners stop their swing as soon as they pull the trigger. The secret? Keep the gun moving in line with the clay’s flight path, even after firing. This smooth follow-through helps ensure your shot stays on target and increases your chances of a clean break.
5. Relax and Enjoy the Experience
Don’t worry if you don’t hit every target on your first attempt. Clay pigeon shooting is all about enjoying the challenge, learning with each shot, and celebrating that first hit. From group sessions in the Cotswolds to stag and hen parties in Wales, The Big Shoot makes sure every experience is fun, safe, and unforgettable.
Why Choose The Big Shoot?
- 🏆 Award-Winning: We’re proud to have won the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award 2025, placing us in the top 10% of attractions worldwide.
- 🎯 Biggest in the UK: With over 150 clay pigeon shooting venues, we’re the UK’s largest shooting network.
- 🎁 Experience Vouchers Available: Looking for the perfect gift? The Big Shoot offers flexible clay pigeon shooting vouchers, ideal for birthdays, Christmas, stag/hen dos, or simply treating someone special to an unforgettable countryside adventure.
Book Your First Clay Pigeon Shooting Experience
At The Big Shoot, we make sure beginners feel comfortable, confident, and safe from the very first pull of the trigger. With expert instructors by your side and locations nationwide, there’s no better place to try clay pigeon shooting in the UK.
👉 Book your clay pigeon shooting experience today with The Big Shoot—or surprise someone with a shooting voucher they’ll never forget!