If you’re just dipping your toes into the world of clay shooting, the different disciplines can seem a bit muddled. It’s common for newcomers to broadly label all forms of clay shooting as “skeet.” However, skeet is only one part of a larger picture. The big three shotgun sports that enthusiasts engage in are trap, skeet, and sporting clays. Each has its own distinct set of rules and variations.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at these three shooting disciplines, exploring the essence of each game, the types of shotguns used and the essential shooting gear to get you started. It’s time to grab your shotgun, slip on your shooting vest, and step into the world of shotgun sports!
Skeet Shooting
Born in the late 1920s, skeet shooting was initially a game called “shooting around the clock,” where the objective was to hit clay pigeons launched from two towers. Today, skeet has evolved into a highly technical sport beloved by shotgunners worldwide. It’s also one of the most popular shooting sports in the industry.
In skeet, participants move around a semi-circular course with eight shooting stations. Two machines, known as the high house and low house, launch the targets. Each station provides a unique angle and trajectory, offering a broad spectrum of shots.
Each round of skeet comprises 25 targets, including both single and double target presentations. Shooting skills such as lead and swing-through are crucial for success. Skeet shooting is also a part of the Summer Olympic Games, bringing an elevated level of prestige and competition to this sport. The rapid-fire nature of skeet keeps shooters on their toes, demanding precision, quick decision-making, and adaptability.
Trap Shooting
Trap shooting is arguably one of the most popular shotgun sports, dating back to the late 18th century. Originally, live pigeons were used as targets, released from a trap – hence the name. Today, clay targets have replaced live pigeons, but the thrill of the game remains.
In trap shooting, targets are thrown from a single “trap” house situated approximately 16 yards away from the shooter. The targets are launched at varying angles unknown to the shooter, creating an element of surprise.
A round of trap comprises of 25 targets. The shooter, standing at any of the five stations, takes five shots at each station before moving to the next. The beauty of trap shooting lies in its unpredictability. The varied angles and directions of the clays keep the shooter alert, making it a perfect sport to improve one’s reaction time and accuracy. The skill of maintained lead is often utilized in this sport. Trap shooting also features in the Olympic Games, under the format of trap and double trap, thus attracting some of the world’s best shooters.
Sporting Clays
Often dubbed as “golf with a shotgun,” sporting clays is the youngest yet perhaps the most complex of the three. Developed in the early 20th century in England, this sport simulates real-life hunting scenarios.
Sporting clays courses are set in natural terrains, each comprising multiple stations. Unlike skeet and trap, where target trajectories are relatively predictable, sporting clays introduce a wide variety of target presentations. Targets might zip across the ground like scampering rabbits, dart between trees, or flutter down like falling leaves.
A typical course consists of 10 to 15 stations, with each station launching targets in pairs. With its dynamic and unpredictable nature, sporting clays provide a comprehensive test of a shooter’s skills, offering an exciting challenge that is as close as one can get to actual field shooting. Though not yet included in the Olympics, numerous local, regional, and national competitions keep the spirit of this sport vibrant and competitive.
Essential Shooting Gear
Shotguns
Over/Under Shotguns: Over/under shotguns are the most popular and a favorite among many clay shooters due to their reliability, balance, and accuracy. These shotguns feature two barrels stacked vertically (one over the other), allowing for two shots to be fired in quick succession. The two-barrel design also allows for the use of two different types of choke tubes, selectable by the shooter. Brands such as Beretta, Browning, and Perazzi are often seen in the hands of shooters at the range.
Semi-Auto Shotguns: These shotguns use the power of the spent shell to load the next round automatically, offering rapid follow-up shots. Semi-autos are typically lighter than over/under shotguns and typically have reduced felt recoil. This makes them an excellent choice for extended shooting sessions, such as a long day at the sporting clays course. Benelli, Remington, and Beretta produce some of the most popular models.
Side by Side Shotguns: These traditional shotguns, with their two barrels sitting side by side, are less common in modern clay shooting sports. However, they’re still loved by many for their nostalgic feel and aesthetic appeal. They shine in events that replicate upland game shooting scenarios, such as certain sporting clays courses. Renowned makers include CZ, Holland & Holland, and Purdey.
Choke Tubes
Shotgun choke tubes are inserted into the muzzle end of the shotgun barrel, shaping the spread of the shot to achieve different patterns at different distances. They’re integral to shotgun sports and can be swapped out to adjust to the varying target presentations in skeet, trap, and sporting clays. Here are the most common types:
- Cylinder: Produces a wide shot spread. Useful for close range targets.
- Improved Cylinder: A slightly tighter pattern than the cylinder choke, making it versatile for various shooting situations.
- Modified: Tightens the pattern more and is suitable for mid-range targets.
- Full: Provides the tightest pattern for long-range targets, such as in trap shooting.
- Skeet: Designed specifically for skeet shooting, providing a wide pattern to cover the large angular spreads.
It’s important to understand that different games, varying target distances and angles might require different chokes. A well-prepared shooter often carries a set of these choke tubes and knows when to use each.
Conclusion
Shotgun sports such as skeet, trap, and sporting clays offer unique and exciting opportunities for people wanting to get into shooting sports. These activities not only provide a competitive outlet but also allow shooters to refine their skills, offering various challenges that test one’s dexterity, quick thinking, and accuracy.
The beauty of these sports is that they are accessible to all – beginners, seasoned shooters, young, old, men, and women. They offer a space where camaraderie is built, skills are honed, and, most importantly, the tradition and respect for firearms are passed down from generation to generation. So, whether you’re a novice shooter looking for a new hobby or an experienced marksman seeking a new challenge, shotgun sports have something to offer for everyone!
