Tag: Sporting Clays

Lilly Kent Rainey, a native of Eatonton, Georgia, is making waves in the world of sporting clays. What began as a mere curiosity soon turned into a passion for this energetic and driven young shooter.

Inspired by her brother's involvement in the sport, Lilly Kent decided to step onto the firing line herself. Starting with a Beretta 20 Gauge Shotgun, she quickly progressed to a Beretta 690 12 gauge with a custom TSK stock from Cole’s Fine Gunsmithing, enhancing her performance on the course. Most times you will see and younger lady of smaller stature shooting a semi-auto like an A400 to help them move the gun easier but not this one! I had the pleasure of meeting her and her wonderful family “Team Rainey” out at the 2024 Southeast Regional Championships on the Super Sporting Course. Seeing them out on the course was a direct reflection of what makes this sport a great one. Mom, dad, and the grandparents made it out to Forrest City Gun Club, GA to watch both her and her brother, Will Rainey, compete at the regional level. 

Bottom Line Up Front

If you give consideration to exclusive and unique products, then you’ll enjoy a look at this collection. However, if you do not care about aesthetics then this fashionable collection is not for you. If you like the products that Ranger already provides for the clay target industry, then you are going to like what they’ve done here. The Ball and Buck™ x Ranger Edge LE are the exact same frames I personally enjoy competing in on a weekly basis but now they’ve really got some character. The lenses they provide are not the highly impressive RIACT A.I. ™ lenses but they are their high-quality lenses that also don’t come at the cost of RIACT A.I. ™ lenses. As an elegant touch these do have the signature Ball and Buck™ Logo. The Active + Field Shirt is super comfortable but make sure it fits your style. I don’t think it’s designed for your average shooter, but those that like to spend some time in the field wing-shooting, it won’t disappoint. Personally, I can’t wait to wear it during the next Upland Hunt I take the wife out on. These products are not cheap…but in any industry, when you mix high-quality products with fashionable heritage, the word “cheap” is no where to be found.

Gage Yarborough is a tenth-grade honor student at Chester Senior High School in Chester, S.C and a member of the Lewisville High School Sporting Clays Team. He is also an active member of the Beta Club. At just sixteen years old, he has competed in numerous competitions.

His love for sporting clays began in 2020. After being quarantined at home for so long during Covid, his parents encouraged him to take up a sport to get out of the house and be more active. He had already tried baseball, soccer and karate but never had the passion for any of them. He has always enjoyed hunting (deer, ducks, turkey, quail, etc). After finding out there was a local sporting clay team, his dad reached out to the head coach to get the details. Gage attended one practice to see what it was all about and the rest is history. He now competes year-round, not only in youth events with his team (SCYSF, SCTP, and SCDNR), but also in registered events such as NSCA, NSSA and ATA. He shoots all three disciplines of shotgun sports Skeet, Trap, Sporting Clays, and recently tried FITASC for the first time.

Turner Parcell has begun an awe-inspiring career into the world of sporting clays. He has participated in youth shooting sports on the local, state and national levels; local, state, regional and national NSCA tournaments; and has competed internationally as a member of the USA Sporting Clay Junior team at World English in Great Britain, and will represent the USA Sporting Clay Junior Team again this year as an alternate at the World Sporting Clay Championships. The most impressive of all, he has made this happen in 6 years, all while being a full time college student.

Turner was born and raised in the small town of Swansea, South Carolina (SC). He became interested in the sport of shooting after he attended competitions that his older brother, Cody, participated in. With a love of all sports, Turner became passionate in the sport of shooting where at the age of 13, he began to try his hand at youth competitions as a member of the Mid-Carolina Youth Shooting Team of Orangeburg, SC. Here, he began to shoot trap, skeet, and sporting clays. He enjoyed all three disciplines, finding success in each one. 

It all started in 2013 at a fundraiser shoot, he was so excited to be with his father at Leigh Valley Sporting Clays. They competed in shooting that day for the purpose of raising money for those with cancer; this was his first exposure to the sporting clays world. He had always been around guns and bird hunting throughout his whole life but this was the first of many sporting clays events to come. They continued shooting that fundraiser until 2015. He loved competition and was driven to see how many clay targets he could hit. Shooting for competition lit a spark inside him that turned to the purest of fire that no one could take away. He was so glad this fundraiser started his journey into the sporting clays world. This shooter is none other than Blaize Whitehead. Don’t forget the name because you are very likely to see it at the top of many leader boards.

Sporting clays is a dynamic and challenging shooting sport that demands precision, focus, and a deep understanding of its rules and regulations. Central to the smooth running of any sporting clays event is proficient officiating. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a novice enthusiast, mastering the intricacies of officiating is crucial for ensuring fair play and accurate scoring. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the nuances of sporting clays officiating, from understanding the rules to executing flawless scorekeeping and announcing results.

Understanding the Rules of Sporting Clays

At the heart of sporting clays officiating lies a firm grasp of the rules governing the sport. Unlike traditional trap and skeet shooting, which follow strict, standardized courses, sporting clays offers a diverse array of targets set across varying landscapes. Therefore, officials must familiarize themselves with the rules specific to each course layout, including target trajectory, shooting stations, and safety protocols.

Key elements of the rules include defining what constitutes a broken target, understanding scoring criteria, and enforcing safety regulations. A broken target is one that has been successfully hit by the shooter, resulting in a visible piece of the target breaking off. This distinction is vital for accurate scorekeeping and determining the outcome of each shot.

At The Clay Lab I wanted to make sure shooters received the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication to a sport that we all cherish. If you have been in the sport for even one season, you know that it can be a humbling experience at times, so those that become triumphant deserve the spotlight. Great work Jacob Judson and I look forward to seeing you out on the course.

At The Clay Lab, I wanted to make sure shooters get the recognition they deserve for their hard work and dedication to a sport that we all cherish. If you have been in the sport for even one season, you know that it can be a humbling experience at times, so those that become triumphant deserve the spotlight. Great work Will Anderson and I look forward to seeing you out on the course.

For many in the shotgun community, Krieghoff stands as a beacon of quality, craftsmanship, and innovation. Its name evokes a sense of reverence among shooters worldwide, symbolizing excellence in design and performance. From its modest beginnings to becoming an industry titan, the journey of Krieghoff is a captivating narrative of dedication, ingenuity, and passion.

Origins of Krieghoff: A Heritage of Excellence

Originating as Sempert and Krieghoff in 1886, H. Krieghoff GmbH – globally recognized as "Krieghoff" – embarked on a singular vision to craft the quintessential hunting firearm, a Drilling. Over the ensuing decades, Krieghoff's journey through five generations has seen a steadfast commitment to innovation, solidifying its status as a premier manufacturer of fine hunting and sporting arms. While rooted in its hunting heritage, Krieghoff maintains its commitment to crafting hunting arms, including drillings, rifles encompassing double rifles, and shotguns, including a bespoke line of true sidelock firearms.

In the expansive world of firearms, Briley Manufacturing Company emerges as a beacon of precision, innovation, and quality. Established in 1976 by Jess Briley, this Texas-based enterprise has transformed from a modest machine shop into a global force in firearms accessories. Renowned for its commitment to precision and excellence, Briley has left an indelible mark on shotgun sports, supporting various disciplines such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the origins of Briley, examine some of its notable products, and focus specifically on the mastery behind their renowned choke tubes and tube sets.

Origins:

Briley Manufacturing's journey began in Houston, Texas, where Jess Briley founded a small machine shop in 1976. Jess Briley envisioned a company that would combine his expertise in machining with a commitment to quality craftsmanship. As Briley gained recognition for its precision and innovation, it expanded its product offerings to become a trusted name in the firearms industry.

In the expansive world of firearms, Briley Manufacturing Company emerges as a beacon of precision, innovation, and quality. Established in 1976 by Jess Briley, this Texas-based enterprise has transformed from a modest machine shop into a global force in firearms accessories. Renowned for its commitment to precision and excellence, Briley has left an indelible mark on shotgun sports, supporting various disciplines such as trap, skeet, and sporting clays. In this comprehensive exploration, we will delve into the origins of Briley, examine some of its notable products, and focus specifically on the mastery behind their renowned choke tubes and tube sets.

Origins:

Briley Manufacturing's journey began in Houston, Texas, where Jess Briley founded a small machine shop in 1976. Jess Briley envisioned a company that would combine his expertise in machining with a commitment to quality craftsmanship. As Briley gained recognition for its precision and innovation, it expanded its product offerings to become a trusted name in the firearms industry.

When it comes to shooting sports and outdoor activities, the importance of proper eye protection cannot be overstated. Among the top players in this field is Ranger or aka “RE Ranger”, a company dedicated to producing high-quality shooting glasses that blend cutting-edge technology with a rich history. This article will explore the various frames and lenses offered by Ranger, with a special focus on their innovative R.I.A.C.T AI lenses. Additionally, we'll delve into the origins of the company to understand how it has evolved into a prominent name in the shooting eyewear industry.

History of Ranger

The roots of Ranger extend back to the early 1990s when Richard Waszkiewicz, the late president and son of Randolph Engineering co-founder Jan Waszkiewicz, spearheaded the creation of the first Ranger products. In collaboration with leading optical experts in the shooting industry, Richard meticulously crafted and engineered the original styles that serve as the foundation for the diverse line of eyewear available today.

This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a legacy that transcends generations. The family-owned New England company, deeply rooted in its commitment to quality, embarked on a journey that would span over two decades. Throughout Ranger and Randolph's shared history, the core values of integrity, hard work, and respect, passed down from the founders, continue to shape the brand's initiatives and the overarching company culture.

As a family-owned-and-operated company, Ranger/ Randolph remains true to its heritage, embracing a dedication to best-in-class products that has been upheld for three generations. The eyewear crafted by Ranger is not just a product; it's a testament to the founders' legacy, a legacy that has resonated globally as their eyewear is now sold in more than 50 countries.

Sporting clays, demands a unique set of skills to conquer its dynamic challenges. In the pursuit of mastery, one thing shooters should embrace is trap style targets to enhance their game. This comprehensive guide explores the profound impact of incorporating trap style targets into your training regimen, delving into the nuances of their presentation, the frequency at smaller stations, and a recommended technique on how best to practice on a trap field.

The Essence of Trap Style Targets

1. Understanding Trap Style Targets

Trap style targets simulate real-world scenarios encountered in sporting clays, offering a mix of speed, trajectory, and unpredictability when shooting the game of Trap. Delving into the essence of these targets provides shooters with a deeper appreciation for the challenges they pose and the unique advantages they bring to the training ground when shooting sporting clays. Thankfully, in the game of sporting clays, we get a chance to get rid of one of the unknown variables; we know the angle/trajectory as we see it in the show pairs.

2. Analyzing Flight Characteristics

Breaking down the flight characteristics of trap style targets, we explore the nuances that make them a vital component of a shooter's skill development. From straight away target presentations to strong quartering angles, understanding these elements lays the foundation for strategic practice and improved performance. This emphasizes the importance of maximizing your time during show pairs. Don’t waste your opportunity to visualize the targets flight path and to develop a plan to take the bird where it stops being a comet streak. Not a moment sooner and not a moment later.

In the world of sporting clays, where precision and focus are paramount, the off-season provides a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to recharge, reflect, and recalibrate their approach to the sport. While some avid shooters may be tempted to cling to their shotguns year-round, there are compelling reasons to consider taking a break during the off-season. This article explores the pros and cons of this practice, delving into the mental benefits, financial recovery advantages, the restoration of family time, and the crucial period for assessing strengths and weaknesses.

Mental Benefits

Pros

Mental Rejuvenation:

The mental demands of sporting clays can be exhaustive, and a break during the off-season allows shooters to recharge their cognitive batteries. Stepping away from the range provides an opportunity to escape the pressures of competition, reducing stress and preventing burnout.

Enhanced Focus and Concentration:

A well-deserved break can lead to improved concentration when shooters return to the sport. The pause allows the mind to reset, resulting in sharper focus and heightened mental clarity, essential for honing shooting skills.

Cons

Loss of Muscle Memory:

Extended breaks can lead to a decline in muscle memory, which is crucial for consistent shooting performance. Returning after a lengthy hiatus may require additional time to regain the fluidity and precision needed for successful sporting clays.

Potential for Rustiness:

Just as a neglected instrument gathers rust, a shooter's skills may deteriorate during the off-season. The risk of losing the edge developed through consistent practice exists, potentially impacting performance in the early stages of the next shooting season.

Clay target shooting is a thrilling and dynamic sport that challenges both beginners and seasoned shooters alike. Among the various disciplines within this sport, trap, skeet, and sporting clays stand out as popular choices for enthusiasts seeking diverse challenges. In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of each discipline, exploring their similarities, differences, and the benefits of cross-training to enhance overall shooting proficiency.

Trap Shooting

Trap shooting is a classic and traditional clay target discipline that originated in the late 18th century. In trap shooting, participants stand behind a single machine that throws clay targets away from them at varying angles, speeds, and elevations. These targets, known as "birds," follow a consistent arc, challenging shooters to anticipate their trajectory and aim with precision.

Similarities with Other Disciplines

Shotguns: All three disciplines—trap, skeet, and sporting clays—utilize shotguns. This commonality ensures that enthusiasts can enjoy the flexibility of transitioning between the disciplines without having to invest in additional firearms.

Focus on Hand-Eye Coordination: Each discipline emphasizes the development of hand-eye coordination. Shooters must swiftly track and target the flying clays, enhancing their reflexes and concentration.

Differences

Target Presentation: In trap shooting, the targets are launched away from the shooter at a fixed angle. This makes trap shooting ideal for honing consistency and mastering the predictability of target trajectories.

Stationary Position: Trap shooters typically remain in one position, focusing solely on their ability to read the targets. This static nature distinguishes trap shooting from the more dynamic skeet and sporting clays disciplines.

As the dawn of the 2024 sporting clays shooting season approaches, enthusiasts and competitors alike are gearing up to embrace the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a weekend warrior, setting clear and attainable goals is the key to unlocking your full potential in this exhilarating sport. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of goal-setting, analyzing your strengths and weaknesses, and crafting a practice regimen that aligns with your resources—be it time, finances, or family life.

The Power of Setting Goals

1. Clarity and Focus:

Setting goals provides a roadmap for your sporting clays journey. It gives you a clear destination, allowing you to focus your efforts and energies on what truly matters. Whether it's establishing a functional pre-shot routine, mastering specific shooting techniques, or achieving a personal best score, having well-defined goals sets the stage for success.

2. Motivation and Commitment:

Goals serve as powerful motivators. They give you a reason to push through challenges and setbacks. When faced with adversity, the clarity of your goals will fuel your commitment, keeping you on track during the tough times. Whether you're a competitor eyeing a championship or a weekend enthusiast aiming for personal growth, goals provide the fuel for your sporting clays journey.

3. Measure of Progress:

Goals act as benchmarks, allowing you to track your progress over time. By breaking down larger aspirations into smaller, achievable milestones, you gain a tangible measure of how far you've come. This not only boosts confidence but also enables you to make necessary adjustments to your approach.

Self-Analysis: Identifying Strengths and Weaknesses

Before embarking on your goal-setting journey, it's crucial to conduct an honest and thorough self-analysis. Understanding your strengths and weaknesses will enable you to tailor your goals and practice regimen for maximum impact.

1. Strengths:

Identify the aspects of your sporting clays performance where you excel. It could be your consistent connection with the target, proficiency with a particular type of clay target, or your ability to maintain focus during challenging courses. Acknowledging your strengths allows you to leverage them as assets in your pursuit of excellence.

2. Weaknesses:

Equally important is recognizing areas where improvement is needed. Perhaps you struggle with certain types of shots, experience difficulty in adapting to varied course layouts, or find it challenging to maintain consistency throughout a competition. Identifying weaknesses provides a roadmap for targeted improvement.

3. Skill Assessment:

Consider undergoing a professional skill assessment or seeking feedback from experienced shooters. This external perspective can unveil nuances in your technique or approach that might go unnoticed. Constructive criticism is a valuable tool for refining your skills and addressing weaknesses. Be sure to find some you truly value their opinion from as everyone will have an opinion but receiving it from those with the skill, knowledge, and training will set you on the right path.

In the world of sporting clays, the pursuit of perfection is a journey that demands attention to detail, skill, and equipment that complements the shooter's unique style. One integral aspect often overlooked is the significance of custom gun stocks. In this realm, Jim Greenwood has emerged as a maestro, crafting bespoke gun stocks that elevate the shooting experience to unparalleled heights.

Understanding the Importance of Custom Gun Stocks

Sporting clays, with its unpredictable target trajectories and diverse shooting scenarios, requires a shotgun that feels like an extension of the shooter's body. A well-crafted custom gun stock is the key to achieving this seamless connection. Unlike mass-produced stocks that may not suit every shooter's physique and preferences, a custom stock ensures a tailored fit, enhancing comfort, control, and accuracy.

Jim Greenwood: The Artisan Behind the Stocks

Jim Greenwood, a name gaining recognition among shooting enthusiasts, has earned a reputation for his meticulous craftsmanship in the realm of custom gun stocks. With a background deeply rooted in a passion for precision shooting and a commitment to excellence, Greenwood has become a sought-after artisan for those looking to enhance their sporting clays experience.

Sporting clays, often referred to as "golf with a shotgun," has gained immense popularity in the United States as a recreational and competitive shooting sport. Enthusiasts from all walks of life flock to sporting clays ranges to test their marksmanship skills in a dynamic and engaging environment. As the sport continues to grow, so does the demand for top-notch facilities that offer an unparalleled experience. In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the features, amenities, and facilities that make sporting clays ranges in the United States stand out and attract avid shooters.

Scenic Locations and Course Design

The setting of a sporting clays range plays a pivotal role in enhancing the overall experience for participants. Many enthusiasts appreciate ranges situated amidst picturesque landscapes, providing a breathtaking backdrop for their shooting endeavors. From rolling hills and dense forests to open fields and waterfronts, the diversity of locations across the United States adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the sport.

Additionally, the course design itself is a crucial factor. Ranges with thoughtfully crafted courses that mimic real hunting scenarios are often favored. Target presentations that simulate various bird flights and ground-based game contribute to the challenge and excitement of sporting clays. The integration of natural features such as ponds, berms, and tree lines further adds to the complexity and authenticity of the shooting experience.

Variety and Innovation in Target Presentations

Sporting clays enthusiasts thrive on variety, and ranges that continually innovate their target presentations are highly sought after. The ability to experience diverse shooting scenarios, from low-flying birds to fast rabbits, keeps shooters engaged and challenged. Ranges that invest in cutting-edge target-launching systems, including automated traps and programmable sequences, elevate the sport to a new level of sophistication.

Some facilities go the extra mile by incorporating technology such as wireless remote controls, allowing shooters to customize the order and trajectory of targets. This adaptability not only caters to different skill levels but also fosters a sense of creativity and strategy among participants.

In the world of sporting clays, enthusiasts can be found on various points of a spectrum, ranging from the casual weekend shooter to the fiercely competitive tournament contender. The difference between these two approaches lies not just in skill level, but in the level of commitment and expectations each individual brings to the sport. In this article, we'll explore the nuances of participating in sporting clays at different levels, emphasizing the importance of aligning one's expectations with their commitment. It's crucial to understand that enjoying the sport for fun is just as valid as vying for championship titles. To delve deeper into this discussion and gain further insights into the world of sporting clays, enthusiasts are encouraged to explore The Clay Lab YouTube Channel, where a treasure trove of videos and podcasts awaits.

The Casual Weekend Shooter

For many, sporting clays represent a leisurely weekend activity, a chance to unwind, enjoy the outdoors, and perhaps socialize with fellow enthusiasts. The casual weekend shooter often approaches the sport with a laid-back mindset, valuing the experience over achieving perfection in every shot. This level of engagement is characterized by a desire to have fun, savor the camaraderie, and appreciate the sheer joy of breaking clays.

Participating in sporting clays as a casual shooter doesn't demand an exhaustive commitment. It's about enjoying the process, relishing the thrill of hitting targets, and appreciating the natural beauty of the shooting grounds. The casual weekend shooter may not invest significant time in training or equipment, and that's perfectly acceptable. What matters most is the enjoyment derived from each outing.

The Competitive Tournament Contender

On the opposite end of the spectrum, we find the competitive tournament contender, the individual who approaches sporting clays with a more intense and goal-oriented mindset. For these enthusiasts, the sport is not just a pastime; it's a passion that demands dedication, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Competing at a high level in sporting clays requires a commitment that extends beyond the weekends.

Tournament contenders invest considerable time honing their skills, engaging in rigorous training routines, and meticulously selecting equipment to gain a competitive edge. Their commitment often extends to mental conditioning, studying the nuances of the sport, and participating in regular competitions to refine their technique under pressure. Success at this level demands sacrifices, both in time and resources.

In the realm of precision shotguns, Kolar Arms has etched its name as a purveyor of craftsmanship and innovation. The Kolar Max Lite Sporting, a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence, stands tall as a symbol of refined design, cutting-edge technology, and unparalleled performance in the world of clay shooting.

Mastering the Craft:

Kolar Arms, a family-owned company based in the heartland of America, has been synonymous with quality since its inception. The Max Lite Sporting exemplifies the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that define Kolar's legacy.

Each Max Lite Sporting shotgun is a product of a labor-intensive process, with components meticulously inspected and fitted by skilled craftsmen. From the precisely machined receiver to the hand-polished barrels, every detail reflects Kolar's dedication to creating shotguns that are as much works of art as they are high-performance firearms.