| Clay
Pigeon Shooting
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.
Where to do Clay Pigeon Shooting?
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. Visit
http://www.adventure-northwales.com/ for more details
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)
Skeet
shooting | What
is clay pigeon shooting |
The
Shotgun | Shooting
clays in Ireland |
Guidelines
for controlling noise from clay pigeon shooting |
Clay
Pigeon Shooting in Wales |
Sporting
Clays |