Here it is; the day has finally come. It’s time for you to finally step onto the range and start shooting clays. So dust down your sturdiest boots from the cupboard and get that jacket re-waxed. You’re nearly ready to start Clay Pigeon Shooting.
So you (almost) have all the gear, but do you have the right idea? This is where we come in. Read on to discover all of The Big Shoot HQ’s top tips for you, the amateur shooter. If you haven’t yet been able to pick up the rifle, perhaps this Valentine’s is the time for you and your partner to ditch the flowers and do so.
Kill Zones and Pick Up Points
When you imagine the clay getting released from the trap, it’s important for you acknowledge with the kill zone and the pick up point. The pick up point comes first – this is where you catch your first sight of the target.
The kill zone is, well, pretty self-explanatory. This is the area in the sky where you hit your target.
Once you calculate how fast the clay will be travelling and in which direction, you will then be able to figure out where these two visual points in the sky are.
The Stance
When holding your gun, you should adopt your stance prior to calling for your clay to be released into the sky.
If you’re right handed, your weight should be on your forward left foot which should be facing toward the kill zone. These requirements should be reversed if you happen to be left-handed.
Taking Aim
Once you’ve mastered the stance, it’s time to work on your aim. The butt of your gun should be just out of the pocket of the shoulder while keeping the muzzle – where the projectile will exit the gun – in line or ever so slightly behind the visual pick up point.
Be sure to keep your weight on your front foot by leaning into the target. This will keep your aim stable and will result in a more successful hit rate.
When you see the clay approaching your kill zone, you need to allow for the time it takes for the shot to reach its target. This is done by aiming your muzzle ahead of the target. Knowing how far forward to aim your muzzle is something that comes with experience and time on the range, so don’t be disappointed if you end up missing some clays.
Of course, there is a lot more to it, but these pointers are a great place to start if you are about to step onto the range for the first time. However, it is crucial that you listen to all instructions provided by your shooting tutor and always adhere to the health and safety precautions.
Clay shooting can be one of the most fun and rewarding activities for groups of people to embark on. So, why don’t you try something different for your Valentine this year? It’s not too late because there’s still time to book at over 150 clay pigeon shooting locations across the country, so hopefully Cupid won’t be shooting alone this Valentine’s Day.