What is skeet shooting?

Are you interested in skeet shooting but unsure where to start? This clay shooting sport is popular for many reasons, and understanding the basics is the first step to trying it for yourself.

In this guide, we explain skeet shooting and examine its main differences from trap shooting. We’ll also discuss the best guns and chokes for skeet shooting and how the sport works.

Skeet shooting: A definition

Skeet shooting is a clay shooting sport in which participants fire 25 rounds at clay targets, such as pigeons or birds. It was created after the introduction of trap shooting to provide a more realistic experience. Skeet shooting mimics the unpredictable flight of birds, which sets it apart from other clay shooting sports.

People decide to try skeet shooting for a variety of reasons. They may be seeking an off-season shooting sport, looking for a new and exciting hobby, getting ready for bird season, or hoping to compete.

How does skeet shooting work?

In skeet shooting, teams of up to five people move around a semi-circle of bases and fire shots at clay targets released from a high house and a low house. The high house fires the targets from a window 10ft in the air, while the low house fires them from a window 3.5ft in the air. Despite being released at different heights, the targets both reach an altitude of 15ft at the point where they cross each other.

Participants will release 25 rounds during the game – 17 are singles, and 8 are doubles. The aim is to hit both targets as they intersect during flight. In international skeet shooting, which is the version played in the summer Olympics, there can be a three-second delay between the participant calling for their target (by shouting ‘pull’) and the target being released. In the American version, targets are released immediately and travel at a slower pace. You’ll be given an immediate repeat of the first target you miss, or you can take an additional single shot on the 7th station if you don’t miss a target.

The differences between skeet shooting and trap shooting

Skeet and trap shooting are fairly similar in that they both use clay targets and are played on similar fields. However, there are some differences that set them apart:

• In skeet shooting, the target can move towards or away from the shooter, whereas it’s always moving away in trap shooting.
• There are eight shooting stations in skeet shooting and only five in trap shooting.
• The target in skeet shooting moves slightly faster than in trap shooting, with the former travelling at 70kmph and the latter moving at 65kmph.
• Targets are shot from different heights in skeet shooting but from ground level in trap shooting.
• Skeet shooting participants fire a different number of shots at each station (depending on the station number), while trap shooting participants consistently take five shots from each of the five stations.

What gun is best for skeet shooting?

Shotguns are used in skeet shooting, but the type you use is up to you. Options include over-under, side-by-side, semi-auto, or pump. Guns used in skeet shooting are typically 12-gauge; however, any gauge is fine, provided it fires at least two shells. Try as many shotguns as possible if the opportunity arises, as this is the best way to find out which option is best for you.

In addition to your shotgun, you’ll need a box of 25 shells the same gauge as your gun plus a shell holder to conveniently carry your ammunition while you move between stations. Other mandatory skeet shooting items are shooting glasses to protect your eyes and hearing protection, such as ear plugs or muffs.

What choke is best for skeet shooting?

Open chokes are considered to be the best option for skeet shooting. They allow for a wider shot pattern than the tighter chokes typically used in trap shooting, helping shooters hit the clay targets as they intersect. The type of choke that works best can be down to personal preference, so try different options where possible to find the right solution for you.

Is skeet shooting difficult?

As with all sports, skeet shooting can be tricky when you first start but will become easier over time as you learn the rules and improve your skills. Hand-eye coordination, reflexes, and discipline are all important factors in skeet shooting, so you’re already one step ahead if you’ve honed these skills in other sports.

What are the safety rules in skeet shooting?

There are many safety rules and guidelines that need to be followed while skeet shooting to ensure all participants have a safe and enjoyable experience. Shotguns must be broken open or bolt open (depending on the gun being used) until you’re on your station and prepared to shoot. For your single shots, you can load both shells at the beginning or just load one shell to start and load the second after your first shot. For doubles, two shells will need to be loaded.

Only the shooter is permitted to be at their station at all times, and it is considered good etiquette to let people shoot without distractions. For this reason, many teams have a no-speaking rule while participants are shooting.

How to get started

If you’ve decided to try skeet shooting, the best place to start is by researching clay shooting facilities that host this clay shooting sport near you. You’ll often find they offer lessons or introductory sessions that will help you learn the basics. If they provide gun hire, you may also get the opportunity to try a variety of shotguns and chokes, helping you decide which types suit you best.

Whether you’re hoping to find a new hobby, looking to practice your shooting skills in the lead-up to bird season, or like the idea of competing in skeet shooting, this sport could be perfect for you.

Specialist shooting insurance through Ripe

Whenever you’re on a shoot, it’s worth knowing you have protection should the worst happen. With specialist shooting insurance, you can ensure you’d be covered if you were to cause an injury to someone or damage third-party property while on a shoot.

Learn more about specialist shooting insurance through Ripe or get an instant online quote today.