How to Lay Out a Skeet Range

Skeet shooters fire at clay pigeons thrown in cross-directional trajectories. A skeet range maximizes the number of shot options and angles, while forcing each shot in a single and open direction. Laying out a skeet range is an easy task that requires several measurements to place the throwing positions and to arrange the shooting positions. The typical skeet range uses mechanical throwing devices, but manual throwers can also positioned for a temporary practice range.

Things You'll Need

  • Marking flags
  • Tape measure
  • Rope
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Instructions

    • 1

      Choose a central point in the open field and place a marker flag on the point. This is the starting point for all of the measurements.

    • 2

      Stand on the starting point, looking out into the open range area. Turn to your left and measure 60 feet, 4-1/2 inches to determine the location of the "high house," or high throwing position. Place a marking flag in the location for the house. Return to the central position.

    • 3

      Look directly to the right and measure 120 feet, 9 inches. Place a marking flag in the ground to determine the location of the "low house," or low throwing position. Return to the central position. Walk straight out into the field and measure 18 feet. This marking is used to determine the flight path of the clays. The clay pigeons will cross at the point if released simultaneously from each house.

    • 4

      Return to the center and face away from the shooting field. Measure a distance of 45 feet to make line perpendicular to the shooting houses. Place a flag to mark the position as the fourth shooting station. Outline the station with a three foot box using chalk, rope or wood.

    • 5

      The distance between the high house, low house and fourth shooting position markings create a half circle. Measure a distance of 26 feet, 8-3/4 inches to the left and right of the fourth position for the third and fifth shooting positions. Measure the same distance from the latter two to mark the second and sixth positions, and to complete the half circle.

    • 6

      Make a 3-foot box at each shooting position to mark the position boundaries. There are seven total positions in the completed course.