Pre-loading Your Shotgun for 3-Gun Shooting - Shotgun Stage Planning - 3-Gun

Mark Hes of Team FN USA provides a technique for pre-loading shotguns in 3-Gun competitions. The method involves analyzing stage targets, determining ammunition order (birdshot for poppers/clays, slugs for paper), and loading the shotgun in reverse sequence to match the engagement order. This ensures the correct ammunition is chambered for each target type, optimizing performance during complex stages.

Quick Summary

For 3-Gun stages with mixed targets, analyze the stage to determine engagement order and lay out ammunition accordingly. Load the first round for the initial target, then load subsequent rounds in reverse order of engagement to ensure the correct ammunition (birdshot or slug) is ready for each target type.

Chapters

  1. 00:15Introduction to 3-Gun Shotgun Pre-loading
  2. 00:35Stage Analysis and Ammunition Planning
  3. 00:45Example Stage Breakdown (Birdshot & Slugs)
  4. 01:00Loading Technique: Chamber to Reverse Order
  5. 01:34Shotgun Loaded and Ready
  6. 01:42Conclusion and Further Resources

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you prepare your shotgun for a 3-Gun stage with mixed targets?

To prepare for a 3-Gun stage with mixed targets like birdshot and slugs, first analyze the stage to determine the engagement order. Then, lay out your ammunition in the exact sequence you'll need it. Load the first round for the initial target, and then load the remaining rounds in reverse order of engagement to ensure the correct ammunition is ready when needed.

What is the recommended method for loading a shotgun in 3-Gun competitions?

The recommended method for loading a shotgun in 3-Gun competitions, especially for stages with varied targets, is to load the first round into the chamber for the first target. Then, load the rest of your ammunition into the shotgun in reverse order of engagement. This ensures you have the correct type of ammunition (birdshot or slug) ready for each specific target.

What types of ammunition are typically used in 3-Gun shotgun stages?

Typical ammunition types used in 3-Gun shotgun stages include birdshot, which is used for targets like pepper poppers and flying clay birds, and slugs, which are used for paper targets requiring more penetration. Proper stage planning involves identifying which targets require which ammunition type.

More Range & Competition Videos You Might Like

More from NSSF—The Firearm Industry Trade Association

View all →