Every Wednesday afternoon Sporting Clays gets underway at about 5:00 pm. If you can’t make it right at 5:00, you can certainly shoot one of the later rounds. Usually there are two to four rounds depending on how many shooters are participating. Our clays range has four positions offering six different presentations.
To shoot a round of 30 birds requires a shotgun capable of getting off two quick shots as well as 30 shells (shot size 7.5 or 8). Hearing and eye protection are required. The cost for a round is 6 dollars, which includes your range fee. It is a great way to tune up for the fall bird hunt.
The Stations
Station 1: A crossing bird (right to left) from an oscillating machine so the clay could be near or far. It starts with a single then two following pairs.
Station 2: This station serves dual purpose for rabbits and crossing birds (left to right) and is affectionately known as “Fur and Feather”. This is a very challenging station for both presentations. The rabbits in particular are tricky due to a couple of cleverly positioned stumps and bumps in the mat they roll along. A single, following pair and another pair is the usual presentation.
Station 3: This position has the bird come from behind the shooter, overhead and flying directly away. A single, following pair and another pair is the usual presentation.
Station 4: This station serves dual purpose. First is “Springing Teal” where the birds are launched more or less straight up. Timing is important here. The final stage has the birds coming directly toward the shooter. A very challenging station, it is made more difficult by using a mini clay as one of the final pair. It seems not much larger than a golf ball.
Shooting a round of sporting clays is great way to improve your shotgun skill. Who knew missing the target could be so much fun? It’s a great excuse to get outside. Last week the weather was perfect and the bugs were at a minimum.
Clays will likely run until some time in September. Please note that Range 6 (rifle range) is closed while Sporting Clays is underway.
Photos: Neil M.
