Discover Sporting Clays with the NSCA – Your Complete Beginner’s Guide - NSSF Let's Go Shooting
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Discover Sporting Clays with the NSCA – Your Complete Beginner’s Guide

Welcome to the World of Sporting Clays

Often called "golf with a shotgun," sporting clays is a shotgun sport that challenges shooters with clay targets simulating game birds and is played through a dynamic outdoor course with multiple shooting stations.

NSCA Guide - What is Sporting Clays

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this guide provides everything you need to get started.

NSCA

Meet the NSCA

Founded in 1989, the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) is the official governing body for sporting clays in the United States.

Get Involved!

The National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) is your go-to authority for training, events and community support.

At a Glance

  • Provides training programs, competitions and networking opportunities.
  • Offers local and national tournaments.
  • Committed to promoting the Sport of Sporting Clays.
Learn More
What You'll Need

Essential Equipment for Sporting Clay Shooting

Whether you're a beginner or an experienced shooter, this guide will help you understand the gear required for a safe and enjoyable experience at the range.

NSCA Guide - Essential Equipment

Click the tabs below to learn more 

Shotgun

Having the right shotgun enhances both your performance and enjoyment in sporting clays. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types and gauges.

Common Shotgun Types

Over-and-Under: Reliable, versatile, with two barrels for quick follow-up shots.

Semi-Automatic: Low recoil, great for beginners and pros but needs more upkeep.

Learn More about Shotgun Action Types

Choosing the Right Gauge

The gauge refers to the size of the shotgun's barrel and the ammunition it fires. The most common gauges for sporting clays are:

12-Gauge: Most popular, powerful and versatile. Ideal for all skill levels.

20-Gauge: Lighter, less recoil, good for smaller shooters, but requires more precision.

28-Gauge: Low recoil, lightweight and great for youth or shooters seeking comfort over power.

.410 Bore: Minimal recoil but challenging due to a limited shot pattern.

Learn More about Shotgun Gauges

Pro Tip: Try different shotguns to find the best fit for your body and style.

Ammo

Choosing the right ammunition is essential for both performance and safety in sporting clays. Understanding the types of loads commonly used will help you hit more targets while ensuring a safe shooting experience.

Choosing the Right Ammunition

Beginner shooters should focus on safe, effective ammunition for sporting clays.

Key Tips

Use the Right Ammo: Match the gauge and shell size to your shotgun to prevent malfunctions.

Shot Size: Start with #7.5 or #8 shot—these sizes work well for most targets.

Shell Length: Use 2 ¾-inch shells for 12, 20 and 28-gauge shotguns. For .410 bore, use 2 ½-inch shells.

Learn More about Shotguns Shells

Pro Tip: Stick to commercially available ammo when starting out. It’s more reliable and safer than using reloaded shells.

Safety Gear

Safety is critical in sporting clays. Protect your eyes and ears with proper gear to prevent injuries.

Eye Protection

Flying debris, like clay fragments, can cause serious injuries. Use quality shooting glasses designed for impact protection and enhanced visibility. Many models have interchangeable lenses to adapt to different light conditions.

Learn What Lens Colors to Use

Ear Protection

Gunfire can cause permanent hearing damage. Use ear protection that lowers noise to safe levels while allowing you to hear commands.

Earplugs: Compact and effective for noise reduction. Ideal for minimal bulk.

Earmuffs: Cover the entire ear for excellent protection. Electronic versions amplify conversation but block gunfire noise.

Combination: Some shooters use both plugs and earmuffs for maximum protection.

Learn More about Ear Protection

Pro Tip: Most ranges offer rentals if you're unsure what to get. Invest in good gear to stay safe and comfortable.

Vest or Bag

Having a convenient way to carry your gear can make your experience much smoother. Shooting vests and ammo bags are essential tools for keeping your shells, spent cartridges and other accessories organized while allowing for quick access during a round.

Gear Options

Shooting Vest: Large pockets for shells, padded shoulders for comfort.

Shell Pouch: Lightweight, waist-worn, organized compartments for shells.

Key Tips

Keep Gear Handy: Ensure your shells are easy to reach without disrupting your stance.

Avoid Overloading: Carry only what you need.

Ensure Proper Fit: Gear should be snug but allow full movement.

Pro Tip: Test different vests and bags to find what’s comfortable for you.

How to Play

How a Round of Sporting Clays Works

What to expect during a round of sporting clays, including station setup, target sequences and rotation flow.

NSCA Guide - What is a registered round of sporting clays
Course Setup

Course Setup and Station Layout

Courses are laid out with 10 to 15 stations, each designed to simulate different hunting conditions. Stations may feature wooded areas or open fields. Clay targets are launched from hidden traps, creating varied scenarios for shooters to engage with.

Shooters move through the course in squads of 2 to 6 participants, taking turns at each station before rotating to the next.

Strategy and Squad Flow

Success in sporting clays depends on adaptability. Each station presents new challenges, requiring shooters to adjust their technique for different target paths and speeds. Effective communication within your squad helps maintain a smooth rotation and enjoyable experience.

How a Turn Works

How a Sporting Clays Round Flows

Understanding how a turn works in sporting clays is key to getting started—follow these simple steps to confidently call for, track and break targets at each station

youtube-video-thumbnail

Mo Parsons, target designer at the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA), walks you through how to shoot targets in a squad rotation during an official NSCA Sporting Clays event.

Step-by-Step: How a Turn Works

At each station, shooters take turns engaging targets in a controlled sequence.

  • 1

    Prepare for Your Turn

    The station referee or squad leader will signal when it’s your turn. Step into the station and prepare your shotgun by loading and positioning it safely. Take a comfortable stance and get ready.

     

  • 2

    Call for the Target

    When ready, say “Pull” to release the target. Depending on the station, you may engage a single target, a Report Pair (second target launches after your first shot) or a True Pair (both targets launch at the same time).

     

  • 3

    Engage and Fire

    Track the clay’s movement, align your shot and fire. A hit is registered when a visible piece of the target breaks off.

     

  • 4

    Clear and Rotate

    Once your shots are completed, clear your shotgun and step back. After all shooters finish at a station, the group moves to the next station for a new challenge.

     

Pro Tip: Stay relaxed, focus on smooth movements, and anticipate target trajectories for better accuracy.

Targets at Each Station

Sporting clays mimic hunting with different target types and flight paths.

Sporting Clay Target Types

Hover over these common target types to learn more

Sporting Clay Target Types

Rabbit Target

Rolls on the ground, mimicking small game.

Standard Target

Common target size used across most stations.

Midi & Mini Target

Smaller, faster targets that require quick reactions.
Learn More about the Different Targets Types

Target Presentations

Incoming: Targets fly toward the shooter.

Outgoing: Targets fly away from the shooter.

Crossing: Targets move horizontally across the shooter's line of sight.

Springing Teal: Targets launch straight up, simulating a flushing bird.

Target Sequences

Single Target: One clay launched at a time.

Paired Targets: Two targets launched per turn. Presented in the following two ways.

Report Pair: Second target launches after the first shot.
True Pair: Both targets launch simultaneously.

Pro Tip: Practicing a variety of presentations builds adaptability and accuracy.

Safety & Sportsmanship

Understanding Sporting Clays Course Etiquette

From the moment you approach a station to when you finish your shots, it's important to follow proper protocols to ensure safety, respect and smooth course flow.

NSCA Guide - Sporting Clays Course Etiquette
Safety Guidelines

Safety is paramount in sporting clays and the NSCA emphasizes that it is everyone's responsibility. Key safety protocols include:

Always Keep Your Gun Pointed in a Safe Direction: Never point your shotgun at anything you do not intend to shoot.

Keep the Action Open: Your shotgun must remain unloaded and open until you are standing in position and ready to shoot.

Wear Eye and Ear Protection: Eye and ear protection must be worn at all times on or near the course to prevent injury.

Follow Range Commands: Adhere to all instructions given by range officers and referees promptly.

Course Etiquette

Observing proper etiquette fosters respect and smooth operation during events.

Be Courteous: When approaching a station, be mindful of other shooters. Keep noise to a minimum and avoid distractions.

Maintain Proper Distance: Stay at least three feet back from the shooting stand when observing or waiting for your turn.

Respect the Course and Equipment: Pick up spent shells and dispose of them properly to maintain a clean, safe environment for all shooters.

Keep the Game Flowing: After finishing your shots, step out of the stand quickly to allow the next shooter to take their turn. Once your squad is finished at the station, move promptly to the next stand to avoid delays for squads behind you.

Congratulate and Support Your Squad: After your turn, it's common to receive congratulations from your squadmates. Take a moment to acknowledge them, then move on to keep the pace of the game.

Fundamental Rules

Adhering to NSCA rules ensures fairness and consistency in competitions.

Shooting Order: Shooters must follow the designated shooting order and remain within the stand while shooting.

Target Presentation: Targets must be launched within a reasonable time after the shooter calls for them and any malfunctions should be reported immediately.

Scoring: A target is scored as "dead" if it is hit and a visible piece is seen; otherwise, it is scored as "lost."

How to Participate

How to Get Involved with the NSCA

Joining the NSCA connects you to a nationwide community of sporting clays enthusiasts, offering access to training, events and competitions.

NSCA Guide - Find a Club

Visit NSCA Website

Visit MyNSCA.com for membership info, events and resources for new and experienced shooters.

Visit Website

Find a Local Club

Find sporting clays ranges near you with the NSCA Club Directory. Filter by state or region.

Find a Club

Participate in an Event

Join a registered sporting clays event to compete under NSCA rules at your classification level.

Find an Event

Join the NSCA

Membership offers competitions, scoring, networking, rulebooks, newsletters and NSCA rankings.

Join Here

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