Shooting Clay Pigeons: A private lesson for beginners (with Jim Harmer)

Published on May 28, 2020
Duration: 13:02

This guide details fundamental techniques for beginner clay pigeon shooting, as taught by expert instructor Jim Harmer. It covers proper gun mounting, grip, stance, sighting, and the crucial elements of swing, trigger pull, and follow-through. Harmer emphasizes a safety-conscious approach and provides insights into common beginner mistakes and how to overcome them, making it ideal for new shotgun enthusiasts.

Quick Summary

Expert instructor Jim Harmer teaches beginner clay pigeon shooting, emphasizing a proper stance with a forward lean, a flat rail sight picture with the bead visible, and continuous swing with follow-through. He advises keeping both eyes open and focusing on the barrel's aim, not the wad, to overcome common misses.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Clay Shooting Lesson
  2. 00:18Proper Gun Mount, Grip, and Shouldering
  3. 01:10Achieving the Correct Sight Picture
  4. 01:42Common Beginner Shooting Mistakes
  5. 02:46Overcoming Recoil Flinch with Hip-Firing
  6. 03:52The Importance of Sweep and Follow Through
  7. 05:55Mastering the Shotgunner's Stance
  8. 07:36Timing and Leading the Clay Target
  9. 10:03Understanding Shot Spread and Wad Travel
  10. 10:57Advanced Fundamentals: Both Eyes Open & Intuitive Mount

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the correct sight picture for shooting clay pigeons?

For clay pigeon shooting, the correct sight picture involves ensuring the shotgun's rail appears flat, with only the bead visible at the end of the barrel. This alignment helps in accurately pointing the shotgun at the moving target.

How should a beginner stand when shooting clay pigeons?

A stable stance is crucial. Keep your back leg straight, your front knee bent, and lean your upper body forward. This posture helps manage the gun's weight and recoil effectively, providing a solid platform for the shot.

What are common mistakes beginners make when shooting clays?

Beginners often miss low and behind targets because they either try to keep the gun out of their line of sight or stop their swing when pulling the trigger. Continuous motion through the swing and shot is vital.

Why is follow-through important in clay pigeon shooting?

Follow-through is essential because it ensures the shot is fired while the gun is still moving towards the target. Continuing the swing after the shot helps maintain momentum and accuracy, preventing the shooter from stopping their motion prematurely.

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