How to Trap & Skeet Shoot

Trap and skeet shooting are two popular and similar sport shooting games. The object in both is to shoot a clay target that is catapulted into the sky. Both sports utilize shotguns, but there are some differences. In trap shooting, clay targets are catapulted away from the shooter. In skeet shooting, clay targets are catapulted from one of two "houses" on either side of the shooter. The "houses" contain the clay target catapulting mechanism. In trap shooting, there are five stations to shoot from; in skeet shooting there are seven stations. "Stations" are the designated areas on trap and skeet courses for shooting at the targets. The objective in both games is to hit the clay targets.

Instructions

    • 1

      Shoot targets by yourself before playing with others. Competitive trap and skeet shooting is generally played by teams of five, although there are also singles and doubles competitions. A variety of games are played on skeet and trap courses. If playing competitively, the rules of the game will vary slightly.

    • 2

      Assume a comfortable shooting position at one of the shooting stations. Keep your muscles relaxed and your eyes open. Grasp the stock off the shotgun with your firing hand, the muzzle with your other and point the shotgun toward the ground.

    • 3

      Call for the target. The popular call is "Pull!" Quickly lift the stock of the shotgun to your shoulder and track the target with the shotgun's muzzle. You want to lead the target, which means you should actually be aiming ahead of the target's trajectory.

    • 4

      Pull the trigger when you've determined the target's trajectory and movement. Continue following the trajectory of the target even after you've fired. Follow-through is an important aspect of shooting sports.

    • 5

      Clear the shotgun and move to the next station, in accordance with the rules of the game you are playing. Keep in mind that the target's trajectory will appear different from this new angle and that adjustments in your aim must be made. If playing competitively, the winner is the shooter or team that hits the most targets. The rules for ties depend on the specific game being played.