Founded in 1928, the National Skeet Shooting Association (NSSA) is the official governing body for skeet shooting in the United States.
ARTICLES
Skeet Shooting 101 – An NSSA Beginner’s Guide
Discover the Exciting Sport of Skeet Shooting
Often called the ultimate test of consistency and precision, skeet shooting is a shotgun sport where shooters move through a set course of eight stations, breaking clay targets that cross at varying angles to simulate real bird hunting scenarios.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this guide provides everything you need to get started.
Meet the NSSA
Get Involved!
The National Skeet Shooting Association (NSSA) was established to promote the sport of skeet shooting and provide structured competition for shooters of all skill levels.
At a Glance
- Overseeing over 1,200 tournaments annually
- Supporting 18,000+ members & 500 member clubs
- Committed to promoting the Sport of Skeet
What You'll Need
Essential Equipment for Skeet 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.
Click the tabs below to learn more
Shotgun
Skeet shooting is a fast-paced shotgun sport that requires a firearm capable of quick target acquisition, smooth swing, and consistent accuracy. 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.
Choosing the Right Gauge
The gauge refers to the size of the shotgun's barrel and the ammunition it fires.
Skeet shooting is unique in that competitions are divided by shotgun gauge, meaning shooters will compete in different events based on the gauge of their shotgun. The four main gauges used in NSSA-sanctioned events 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.
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 skeet shooting. 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 skeet shooting.
Since skeet targets are launched at relatively close distances, smaller shot sizes and lighter loads are preferred to maintain a wide, even pattern without excessive recoil.
Key Tips
Use the Right Ammo: Match the gauge and shell size to your shotgun to prevent malfunctions.
Shot Size: #9 shot is most common on the skeet field
Shell Length: Use 2 ¾-inch shells for 12, 20 and 28-gauge shotguns. For .410 bore, use 2 ½-inch shells.
Pro Tip: Stick to commercially available ammo when starting out. It’s more reliable and safer than using reloaded shells.
Safety Gear
Skeet shooting is an exciting and fast-paced sport, but like all shooting disciplines, safety is the top priority. Protecting your eyes and ears is essential—not just for competition requirements but for long-term health.
In this video, Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, discusses the importance of wearing appropriate eye and ear protection at the range.
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.
Ear Protection
Gunfire can cause permanent hearing damage. Use ear protection that lowers noise to safe levels while allowing you to hear commands.
Foam Earplugs: Inexpensive and disposable. Good for casual shooters but may not fit all ear shapes.
Custom Molded Earplugs: Designed for a perfect fit, providing superior comfort and high-level noise reduction.
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.
Key Features to Consider:
Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25+ dB for proper protection.
Comfortable Fit – Shouldn’t interfere with gun mount or cheek weld.
Electronic Options – Help maintain situational awareness during shooting.
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 Skeet Works
What to expect during a round of skeet, including course setup, shooting process and target presentations.
Course Setup
Skeet shooting follows a structured semi-circle course layout where shooters rotate through 8 stations, breaking targets launched from two fixed points: the high house and low house.
A full round consists of 25 shots per shooter, following a set shooting order and target sequence.
The game challenges shooters to adjust their aim, timing, and lead as they move around the field, encountering targets from different angles and speeds.
Course Setup and Station Layout
Hover over the arrows on this Skeet field to learn more about the stations and setup.
High House
On the left of the skeet field. Launches targets at approximately 10 feet above ground.
Low House
On the right side of the skeet field. Launches targets from about 3 feet above the ground.
Station 1
Shoot 4 targets from here
High house
Low house
Pair (high house target first, then low house)
Station 2
Shoot 4 targets from here
High house
Low house
Pair (high house target first, then low house)
Station 3
Shoot 2 Targets from here
High House
Low House
Station 4
Shoot 2 Targets from here
High House
Low House
Station 5
Shoot 2 Targets from here
High House
Low House
Station 7
Shoot 4 targets from here
High house
Low house
Pair (low house target first, then high house)
Station 6
Shoot 4 targets from here
High house
Low house
Pair (low house target first, then high house)
Station 8
Shoot 2 targets and an optional 3rd target here
High house
Low house
The first target missed is re-thrown upon the shooters’ call, but if no targets are missed in the round, the 25th target will be a low house target shot from station 8.
Target Sequences
Station 1 & 2: 4 targets per station (High house/Low house/Double*)
*On Double, a target will be launched simultaneously from each house; shoot the high house target first.
Station 3, 4 & 5: 2 targets per station (High house/Low house)
Station 6 & 7: 4 targets per station (High house/Low house/Double*)
*On Double, a target will be launched simultaneously from each house; shoot the low house target first.
Station 8: 2 targets at this station and an optional 3rd target* (Hig house/Low house/Low house)
*In the game of skeet, the first target missed is re-thrown upon the shooters’ call. However, if no target is missed during the round, the 25th shot becomes an additional low house target from station eight.
Squad Flow
Skeet shooting is typically shot in squads of 2-5 shooters who take turns at each station before moving through the course.
Since squads move through the course together, shooters can observe their squadmates’ techniques, learning from each other's successes and challenges. A strong strategy involves maintaining a smooth swing, tracking targets efficiently and adjusting for different angles as you progress through the stations. In competitive skeet, shooters are grouped by skill level, age category or at random, ensuring fair play and a structured squad rotation.
How a Turn Works
How a Skeet Round Flows
Understanding how a turn works in skeet is key to getting started—follow these simple steps to confidently call for, track and break targets at each station.
A solid pre-shot routine is essential for success in skeet shooting. In this video, Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, demonstrates key components applicable to any station: establishing a solid stance, determining your hold point, setting your look point, calculating the appropriate lead and executing the shot.
Step-by-Step: How a Turn Works
At each station, shooters take turns engaging targets in a controlled sequence.
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, solid stance. Find your Hold Point (where your shotgun will be pointed, typically 1/3 of the way out from house), Focal or Look Point (where your eyes will be looking to pick up the target, slightly back toward window), Break Point (where you plan to take your shot, typically around the center stake at station 8) and Establish Lead (the distance your gun should be in front of the target and maintain this distance on follow through after the shot to break the target). Mount your shotgun, set your eyes and get ready.
Call for the Target
When ready, say “Pull” to release the target. Depending on the station, you may engage 2 targets: 1 launched from the High house and 1 from the Low house, or 4 targets: 1 launched from the High house and 1 from the Low house and then a Double (a target launched from each house simultaneously).
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.
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 together. The process repeats until all eight stations are completed.
Pro Tip: Stay relaxed, focus on smooth movements and anticipate target trajectories for better accuracy.
Safety & Fundamentals
Developing Basic Skeet Shooting Skills
Developing these core skills will help shooters break more targets, improve their confidence and build good habits for both recreational and competitive shooting.
Safety Guidelines
Safety is the top priority in any shotgun sport. Following proper safety procedures ensures an enjoyable and injury-free experience for all shooters.
The 4 Primary Rules of Firearm Safety
- Always Keep the Firearm Pointed in a Safe Direction
- Treat All Guns as Though They are Loaded
- Keep Your Finger Off the Trigger Until You are on Target and have Decided to Fire
- Always Be Sure of Your Target and What is Beyond It
Important Reminders
Always Wear Eye & Ear Protection – Protect yourself from clay fragments, gunpowder, and loud shotgun blasts.
Unload When Not Shooting – Only load shells when it’s your turn to shoot and keep the action open when moving between stations.
Be Aware of Other Shooters – Stay behind the shooter in position and pay attention to range commands.
Shooting Stance
A proper stance provides balance, control, and the ability to smoothly follow the target’s path.
In this video, Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, demonstrates the importance of proper stance in skeet shooting.
Key Elements of a Proper Stance
Feet Position: Shoulder-width apart, with your front foot slightly ahead of your back foot for balance.
Knees Slightly Bent: A relaxed posture prevents stiffness and helps with target tracking.
Upper Body Lean: Slightly forward, never leaning back—this keeps you balanced and reduces the impact of recoil.
Gun Mount Ready: Your shotgun should be in a comfortable pre-mount position or easily accessible for a smooth gun mount.
Shotgun Mount
A proper shotgun mount is essential for accuracy, comfort, and consistency. Your goal is to smoothly bring the gun into position without disrupting your sight alignment or balance.
In this video, Pro-Shooter Kaleigh Lawson and Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, demonstrate the fundamentals of proper gun mount in skeet shooting.
Key Elements of a Good Shotgun Mount
Stock Placement: Place the shotgun in the crease of your shoulder and bring the gun firmly up to your cheek.
Smooth Motion: The movement should be fluid and controlled, avoiding unnecessary jerking or rushing.
Head Position: Keep your head firmly on the stock and your eyes focused on the target. Lifting your head mid-shot can cause missed targets.
Grip & Trigger Control: Hold the shotgun firmly but not too tight, allowing for smooth swings and follow-through.
Lead & Shot Placement
One of the most crucial skills in skeet shooting is understanding lead, or how far ahead of the target your shotgun must be when you pull the trigger. Since clay targets are moving at high speeds, shooting directly at them will result in a miss.
In this video, Nathan Boyd, Assistant Director of the National Shooting Complex, introduces the concept of 'lead' in skeet shooting—the distance you aim ahead of a moving target to ensure a successful hit.
The Importance of Lead
A shotgun fires a spread of pellets (called a "pattern") rather than a single bullet. Because the clay target is moving and the pellets take a fraction of a second to reach their destination, you must account for this travel time by placing your shot ahead of the target's flight path. The farther the target is and the faster it moves, the more lead is required.
Understanding where to place your shot at different stations is critical for consistent accuracy.
Keys of Sustained Lead
The shooter keeps the shotgun ahead of the target the entire time.
The lead distance remains consistent, and the shooter pulls the trigger while maintaining the gap.
How to Participate
How to Get Involved with the NSSA
Joining the NSSA connects you to a nationwide community of skeet shooting enthusiasts, offering access to training, events and competitions.
Visit NSSA Website
Visit MyNSSA.com for membership info, events and resources for new and experienced shooters.
Find a Local Club
Find Skeet ranges near you with the NSSA Club Directory. Filter by state or region.
Participate in an Event
Sign up for a local, regional, or national NSSA-sanctioned skeet shooting event.
Join the NSSA
Membership offers competitions, scoring, networking, rulebooks, newsletters and NSSA rankings.
NSSA-NSCA Target Talk Newsletter
Every week, NSSA-NSCA shares upcoming shooting events, shoot results, association news, shooting tips, skeet and sporting clays rules and procedures and all kinds of useful information.
Pull The Trigger Newsletter
Every month, NSSF shares video and article tips from experts in target shooting, hunting, firearm maintenance, game cooking and other firearm-related topics.
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