How to Clay Shoot

Shooting is both a recreational and competitive sport used by hunters, hobbyists and those just seeking a fun time while improving accuracy and proficiency with weapons. Clay shooting was developed to simulate the movement of birds and other small animals with a clay "pigeon" or target flung through the air in front of the shooter. As with any sport or activity involving weapons, technique, care and safety must be maintained at all times.

Things You'll Need

  • Shotgun (.410, 28 gauge, 20 gauge or 12 gauge)
  • No. 8 game-shot ammunition
  • Clay thrower
  • Clay pigeon targets
  • Assistant to release targets
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep your finger extended along the side of the firearm and away from the trigger until all people, animals and distractions are out of your field of view. Point the gun downrange and slightly toward the ground.

    • 2

      Position and set your clay thrower. The distance and position depends on your preference and game type. For example, for official sporting clay shooting, multiple throwers are positioned at different locations with different angles to simulate live game patterns. Casual recreational shooters may prefer to set up the thrower approximately 20 to 30 yards to the left or right of the shooter, so the target's trajectory will cross the shooter's path.

    • 3

      Secure the thrower into the ground or on its mount, then load clay pigeons into the auto-loader rack. Have your partner stay near the thrower to act as a puller, as he or she will be pulling the cord to release the clay.

    • 4

      Load the No. 8 game-shot shells into your shotgun, then position the stock of the shotgun against your shoulder, aim down the sight, release the safety and place your finger on the trigger. Let the puller know you are ready, and they will release the clay pigeon targets.

    • 5

      Aim at the clay pigeon when it enters your field of view, then follow its movement with the sight of the gun. Continue moving the gun in the direction of the clay's movement and pull the trigger firmly. If your movement matches the speed, direction and angle of the clay pigeon, you will hit it.