Top Gun
Pull, Crack, the flying clay disappears from the skyline. There is nothing
more satisfying than pulling the trigger and watching your clay smash
to pieces. Clay Pigeon Shooting is an exciting, challenging and - be warned
- addictive activity that everyone can try. Guaranteed satisfaction once
you destroy your first clay, which only motivates you further to hit the
next one!
So what should you look for in clay pigeon shooting? To get the most
out of a Clay Pigeon Shoot you need to know the terminology so here goes…
The Shoot
Beginners will normally shoot 25-50 clays during the session under the
guidance of a qualified instructor. Depending on your group size expect
one instructor (1 gun) to 1- 6 people. The minimum age is 12 years when
accompanied by an adult. Allow 90 minutes for a group of 4 people, including
safety brief and shooting time.
The Shotgun
These are measured in bores…. Say no more!
You may have heard people talk of 12 bore or 16 bore shotguns, there
are in fact many different calibre guns. Bores are measured in the required
number of lead balls to exactly fit the interior diameter of the barrel
(are you getting this, there is a test at the end), to make up 1lb in
weight. Example a 20 bore gun will require a cartridge packed with 20
lead balls to fit in the diameter of the barrel. The popular bore sizes
available are 12, 16, 20, 28.
The Ammo
Obviously a 12 bore shotgun requires a 12 bore cartridge…. always
best to clarify these things. As long as you use the correct gauge cartridge
for your gun you can't really go too wrong. i.e. don't go putting a 20
bore cartridge in your 12 bore.
But hey, don’t worry as guns, ammunition, head protectors and qualified
instruction is included, so you can just turn up and enjoy the activity.
Total Recoil
Generally the recoil from the shotgun maybe the most uncomfortable part
of the activity (as they say no pain no gain) however, good instruction
and correct posture will alleviate the kick from shotgun.
Traps
Professional shooting venues are set up with a range of traps (machines
that throw the clays skywards), these traps allow the clays to simulate
the flight of wild birds such as pheasants, rooks and grouse. There are
even traps that will throw a clay along the ground to simulate a running
rabbit.
What to Wear
Shooting sites are in country locations, and clothing will depend for
the time of year, but it is always best to be prepared. Sturdy footwear
is essential as you are out in the country, wear comfortable clothing
and always take a waterproof jacket and hat for shade or retaining warmth.
What’s Included
Specialised equipment is included and your qualified instructor will guide
you through the initial safety brief, followed up shooting hints and tips.
Clays, guns and ear defenders are included.
Best time to go
Clay Pigeon Shooting is available throughout the year.
The North Wales countryside is the perfect location for a shoot and is
home to some great activity providers. Why not enjoy the activity together
with a few friends and take the challenge at one of our shooting centres
in North Wales.
We recommend:
What to look for in a good venue …
• Availability of female and males guns – female guns are
not so heavy and have less recoil – avoiding bruised shoulders
• Variation of traps (see explanation above)
• Comprehensive facilities – somewhere to change out of your
muddy clothes
• Refreshments
• Affiliation to the Clay Pigeon Shooting Association (CPSA)
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