An Introduction to Clay Pigeon Shooting
Clay pigeon shooting, also known as target shooting, is the practice of using a firearm to shoot down clay targets, known as clay pigeons. These targets are flung into the air, and are designed to simulate birds in flight; the marksman will then take aim and attempt to shoot the target down.
The historical practice of clay pigeon shooting means that the terms you may hear on a shooting ground might sound a little strange. Since 1921, it has been illegal to use live pigeons in competition and practice, but the targets are still sometimes called ‘birds’ all the same. The devices used to fling the clay targets are known as traps, and depending on whether you hit the target or not you will either make a ‘kill’ or end up with a ‘bird away’.
The Basics of a Clay Pigeon Shooting Lesson
When you visit our CPSA Premier Plus facilities at Doveridge to try your hand at clay pigeon shooting, it is our priority that you learn the basics safely. Our experienced instructors will cover all aspects of gun and gun range safety; you will then be taught how to correctly load and fire your gun.
Once you’ve gotten to grips with the basics of clay pigeon shooting, the fun can really start. You’ll have the chance to try a few different clay pigeon shooting disciplines which we specialise in at our grounds. You will also be encouraged to develop your technique with expert guidance from our instructors. Soon enough, you will be firing rounds and hitting targets like a pro!
We specialise in the tuition of the following clay pigeon shooting disciplines:
• English Sporting
• Olympic and English Skeet
• Down the Line
• Automatic Ball Trap
• High Tower
• Compak Shooting
If you are looking to take up a new hobby and will be visiting us regularly, we offer membership packages o you can make use of our facilities. As well as regular membership, we offer taster sessions, and even cater for stag and hen parties and corporate groups. You can even extend your stay with us as we have comfortable and convenient holiday cottages on our grounds.
Complete Clay Pigeon Shooting Services
We are proud to offer professional gunsmith services at our clay pigeon shooting grounds. With over 20 years of experience, our gunsmith Simon Willmore can carry out a complete range of services on your shotgun; all work is carried out to an incredibly high standard while being fairly priced. For more information on our gunsmith services, our clay pigeon shooting, or our events, please do get in touch.