This Coaching Weekend Made Me a Better Shot - The Shotgun Classic at Orvis Sandanona

Published on November 27, 2025
Duration: 28:59

This video from TGS Outdoors details techniques learned at the Orvis Shotgun Classic. Expert instruction from Will Fennell and Chuck Baker focuses on improving clay target shooting. Key takeaways include trusting gun fit, proper lead and swing, and understanding the role of vision in consistent target acquisition. The event emphasizes a non-competitive, educational environment for shooters of all levels.

Quick Summary

Improve your clay target shooting by focusing on hitting the first bird of a pair, maintaining a relaxed swing, and trusting your gun fit. Avoid common errors like looking back at the barrel-target gap before firing. Keeping both eyes open enhances target acquisition and speed perception.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Event Introduction
  2. 01:07Event Structure
  3. 02:14Coaching with Will Fennell
  4. 04:01Gun Dynamics and Style
  5. 06:41Instructional Philosophy
  6. 08:10Technical Shooting Tips
  7. 11:06Trap Shot Setup and Gun Fit
  8. 12:41Common Shooting Errors
  9. 14:08Vision Science in Shooting
  10. 18:12Coaching with Chuck Baker

Frequently Asked Questions

What are key techniques for improving clay target shooting?

Focus on hitting the first bird of a pair, maintain a relaxed swing, and trust your gun fit. Avoid looking back at the gap between the barrel and target before firing, and keep both eyes open for better target acquisition.

How does gun fit affect shooting style?

A gun's weight and balance, like that of a fast-handling Krieghoff, can significantly influence a shooter's style. Developing technique is often shaped by the characteristics of the firearm one learns with.

What is the most common mistake in clay shooting?

The most frequent error is not trusting the lead, causing shooters to look back at the space between the barrel and the target just before they shoot, which results in a miss.

What role does vision play in shooting?

Keeping both eyes open enhances focus on target speed and angle. Closing an eye can increase barrel consciousness but may slow down the shooter's reaction time.

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